07. august 25, 2011 open session board minutes

7/31/2019 07. August 25, 2011 Open Session Board Minutes

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Regular Board Meeting Page 2Thursday, August 25, 2011

4. ADOPTION OF AGENDA

It was,Moved by: Trustee Abraham

Seconded by: Trustee Cooke

(11-141) That the agenda be adopted to include the following topic under Item 12,Board Member Additions:

The Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary RelayCARRIED

5. ADOPTION OF MINUTES

5.1 Regular Board Meeting Thursday, June 23, 2011

A trustee raised questions of clarification concerning the following twocomments that were reported on page 11 of the minutes: it appears thatthe current eligibility distance is not an issue in the Clarington area due tothe lack of calls to trustees and the possibility of striking a committee toreview this matter.

In speaking to the first comment, the trustee felt that the wording is not anissue is an assumption and it could be misinterpreted that a survey hadbeen conducted. Discussion occurred around the wording and it wasagreed that the comment be amended as follows: it appears some

trustees felt that the current eligibility distance is not an issue in theClarington area due to the lack of calls to trustees.

In regard to the comment around striking a committee, Chairperson D. Lloydconfirmed that the suggestion of striking a committee could be addressed bythe Resource Committee.

It was,Moved by: Trustee Kitney

Seconded by: Trustee Wilfong

(11-142) That the minutes for the Regular Board Meeting held on Thursday,June 23, 2011 be adopted as amended.

CARRIED

6. EDUCATIONAL PRESENTATIONS

Nil.


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7. DELEGATIONS

Vice-chairperson A. Lloyd stated that Board policy speaks to one hour being thetime allotted for delegation presentations, unless extended by a Board motion.

The trustee noted that as there were a number of delegations in attendancewishing to make a presentation to Board, that a motion be made around the timeallotted for delegations.

It was,Moved by: Trustee A. Lloyd

Seconded by: Trustee Abraham

(11-143) That the Board suspend the rules of Board Policy No. B-2.1, Board andCommittee Meetings, section 4.2.10, so that all pre-arranged delegations forthe August 25, 2011 Board meeting can be heard, and that a maximum of

thirty minutes be allotted to unannounced delegations.CARRIED

7.1 PRE-ARRANGED DELEGATIONS

7.1.1 Chief Sandra Moore, Hiawatha First Nation, regarding City ofPeterborough Secondary Schools Group PupilAccommodation Review

Chief Sandra Moore, Hiawatha First Nation, spoke to therelationship that exists between Hiawatha First Nation students and

their success at Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School (TASSS).

It was noted that almost 100% of Hiawathas students havegraduated from high school, and for more than thirty-five yearsHiawathas students have graduated from TASSS. An article in theAugust 17, 2011 Globe and Mail reported that only 40% of on-reserve students graduate from high school, half the rate of thegeneral population. Chief Moore stated that Hiawathas graduationrate makes them the anomaly.

Chief Moore stated that a huge part of the success of Hiawatha

students is due to TASSSs natural environment, superior teachingstaff, modern facility, and multi-generational familiarity.

In the past three years Hiawatha has paid in excess of $350,000,through a service contract, for students who attend TASSS. Thisamount does not include students who attend other high schools,elementary school, or transportation costs.

Chief Moore expressed concern that Hiawatha First Nation was notrepresented on the Accommodation Review Committee.


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The delegate spoke to a braid of sweetgrass signifying unity,strength, teamwork and togetherness, and likened the braid tobringing students together so that their strengths, ideas,experiences, skills and gifts can be combined to create amazing

things.

Chief Moore stated that Thomas A. Stewart Secondary Schoolprovides an educational environment where creativity can bereleased, hands-on skills explored, athletic abilities and strengthsexercised, and brilliance challenged.

Trustees were requested to keep the Education Centre at itscurrent location, and to base their decision on what is best forstudents.

A petition signed by Hiawatha community members, and letters ofsupport from Alderville and Curve Lake First Nations, werepresented.

Trustee queries focused on whether the unique services at TASSScould be replicated at other schools and if there was a single factorthat could be attributed to the successful graduation rate ofHiawatha students.

Chief Moore stated that in her opinion, it is a combination of all thatTASSS has to offer, that contributes to the successful graduation

rate. It was noted that the students make use of the ample groundsfor educational purposes and that pow wows are held on theproperty.

7.1.2 Joe Teichman, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Joe Teichman, parent of a Thomas A. Stewart Secondary Schoolgraduate with Autism Spectrum Disorder, addressed the schoolsdesign and setting and to the positive effect that the TASSSenvironment has on special needs students.

The delegate spoke to autism, to experiences at various schoolsthat his son attended, to relocating his family in search of schooling,and to his experiences working with children with special needs.

J. Teichman stated that he enrolled his son at TASSS because ofwhat the school had to offer. It was noted that the site allowsautistic students the opportunity to find calm if the environment


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becomes too noisy. It also offers excellent opportunities for specialneeds students to learn skills in technology classes, and to preparethem for adulthood.

Examples of technology and art work created by the delegates sonwere displayed.

J. Teichman requested that Thomas A. Stewart Secondary Schoolnot be considered for closure.

No questions of clarification were posed by trustees.

7.1.3 Eberhard Zeidler, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Eberhard Zeidler, the original architect for Thomas A. StewartSecondary School, noted that it was a long struggle to convinceothers that the schools design, which includes the rational andemotional needs of students, could work.

The delegate spoke to the school site being located on theOtonabee River; to the expansive playing fields; to numerousphysical education opportunities; to the large and unique auditoriumand library; to first-rate facilities and equipment that support theArts, technology, science, and mathematics programs; and to thesite housing three care, treatment, and correctional facilities.

E. Zeidler stated that the building was designed so that allclassrooms face the river, while the tech workshops occupy theback of the building which faces the road. As there were too manyclassrooms to set them parallel to the river, they were placed in aforty-five degree angle, thus creating two triangles with theentrance in the middle. When one drives up to the building, youenter into a courtyard with the two classroom triangles on eachside. The opening between the two triangles allows a view of theriver with a wide stair leading down to it. The two entrances intothe school are from this courtyard.

The delegate stated that the building and playing fields were woveninto the river landscape to create an emotional feeling that supportseducational programs, and that irreparable damage to thecommunity would occur if the Board abandoned this remarkablebuilding.


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Trustees asked the architect for his opinion regarding the possibilityof re-purposing the building for intensive programming forintermediate and secondary students; if the building was designedfor use as two separate schools; and to what extent the building is

wheelchair accessible.

E. Zeidler stated that the building design allows for flexibility, that itwas designed to be used as one school, and that an elevator couldbe installed so that all three floors can be accessed,

7.1.4 Brendan Moher and John Ringereide, regarding City ofPeterborough Secondary Schools Group PupilAccommodation Review

Brendan Moher, alumnus and parent of former Thomas A. Stewart

Secondary School students, along with John Ringereide, formerprincipal of TASSS and now retired, spoke as representatives ofthe Put Students First Coalition. The coalition is a grassrootsorganization of concerned Thomas A. Stewart Secondary Schoolstudents, parents, former educators and community members.

A New Vision document was distributed to trustees, and aPowerPoint presentation was made, suggesting an alternative toadministrations recommendation to close TASSS.

It was suggested that the school communities of Peterborough

Collegiate and Vocational School (PCVS) merge with Thomas A.Stewart Secondary School to form a new school community, with anew name and identity, at the TASSS site. A new name could bedescriptive such as Peterborough Academy of Arts, Science andTechnology; or it could incorporate the names of both PCVS andTASSS; or each wing could be named after one of these schools.

The delegates suggested that the new school would have anenrolment of approximately 1,300 students, current programs wouldcontinue to exist, richer and more varied courses could be offered,and new friendships could develop. The grounds and natural

environment make the site ideally suited for a First NationsLearning Centre and could accommodate outdoor cultural eventssuch as open air theatre and First Nations pow wows. The creativepartnership that currently exists between TASSS and Sir SandfordFleming College (dual credit courses) could be expanded to includeTrent University (fresh water environmental science).

It was suggested that if the merger were to occur, then the PCVSsite could be utilized to serve the broader educational needs of thecommunity by housing organizations and programs such as the


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Centre for Individual Studies, Teen Moms, Carriage House, MonAmi, STRIVE, child and youth workers, and consultants. ThePCVS location could be renamed the Centre of Excellence forAlternative Education.

The delegates spoke to the economics of merging into the TASSSsite, stating that it was fully upgraded in 2005-2006; classrooms,shops and locker bays that are not currently being used could bereopened; it offers the lowest cost option to expand accessibility;wheelchair ramps are already in place; and buses are easilyaccommodated without congestion in the large parking lot.

It was stated that school boundaries and feeder schoolassignations have not changed in decades but the demographics ofthese communities have. The delegates stressed that school

boundaries have changed before, as have bus routes, and thismust be done to ensure an even distribution of students to all fourof the Boards secondary schools. It was suggested that theCatholic school system is enjoying high enrolment due to itsmodern facilities and ability to offer and deliver a large variety ofcourse selections.

The delegates stated that the vision they are presenting is whollystudent focused, will enhance student learning, and will bring anend to the bricks and mortar struggle between two outstandingschool communities. It was suggested that the new Peterborough

Academy of Arts, Science and Technology at the TASSS site, anda new Centre of Excellence for Alternative Education at the PCVSsite, will result in a win-win outcome for both school communitiesand particularly for students.

A petition, containing 947 names, was presented. The petitionrequests that the Board not approve administrationsrecommendation to close TASSS, that the TASSS location remainopen, and that the new vision and plan presented by the coalitionbe adopted and implemented.

Trustees posed questions of clarification around accessibility costs,movement of existing TASSS students, Kawartha Pine RidgeDistrict School Board (KPR) students enrolling in the coterminousCatholic board schools, and attracting students to KPR schools.

The delegates replied that empty spaces, located one aboveanother, should make for less complicated renovations of anaccessibility nature at TASSS; that current students would not beexcluded from attending TASSS but some might be better served inan alternate program at PCVS; that by creating an image of a


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new facility, with excellent programs, the school will be desirable tofamilies and to students who may have transferred to thecoterminous Catholic school board; that neither school communitywould be destroyed and that both cohorts will remain intact at

TASSS; and that the downtown location of PCVS makes it adesirable location for alternative programs as many of the studentsreside in the downtown area.

7.1.5 Andrew Pyle and Michael Saunders, regarding City ofPeterborough Secondary Schools Group PupilAccommodation Review

Andrew Pyle and Michael Saunders presented on behalf of theSchool Council of Peterborough Collegiate and Vocational School.

A document entitled Peterborough Collegiate and VocationalSchool & The Public Accommodation Review 2011 was distributedto trustees.

In speaking to enrolment, it was stated that PCVS had the highestenrolment of the citys four secondary schools in 2010-2011, withan average daily enrolment (ADE) of 801 over the course of theyear. Registration for September 2011 currently stands at 806 withapproximately 25-35 new enrolments expected. Although theAccommodation Review Committee (ARC) heard that the ADE for2011-2012 is expected to be 702, it is felt that a more accurate

projection would be 790. It was noted that 127 out of boundarystudents attended PCVS in 2010-2011. These students were notIntegrated Arts or English as a Second Language students. It is feltthat the students choose to attend PCVS due to its size, locationand atmosphere.

The delegates stated that keeping PCVS open makes financialsense as it has the lowest yearly maintenance costs, the lowestprojected capital costs, lowest busing costs, and the smallestpotential resale value due to the property size. Trustees werecautioned with regard to PCVSs market value assessment, noting

that the nearby YMCA building sold for one dollar.

It was stated that if TASSS was to close, this would have thegreatest impact on reducing the total number of empty On-The-Ground (OTG) spaces in the Boards secondary schools and wouldstill allow room for future growth without relocating intermediatestudents.


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The delegation responded to trustee queries pertaining toenrolment. Queries focused on the coalitions projected ADE andthat provided to the Accommodation Review Committee, the largenumber of students returning for a second year of Grade 12, out-of-

boundary students, and the availability of numbers pertaining toPCVS students who are not going to the school.

7.1.6 Mike Watt, regarding City of Peterborough Secondary Schools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Mike Watt, owner of businesses located downtown in the City ofPeterborough, spoke to his personal experiences with PCVSsIntegrated Arts students.

The business owner stated that he approached the school to see if

they were interested in competing with schools from across NorthAmerica in the Walk the Walk competition being held at HuntingtonBeach, California in early August 2011. This event requires schoolsto organize and host a fashion show with responsibilities rangingfrom set design, music, choreography and modeling. After monthsof training and video submissions, PCVS won the wild card contest,enabling them to participate as the only Canadian school in thefashion show competition. A team of about twenty students, alongwith a few teachers and the delegate, made the trip to California tocompete for thousands of dollars. The delegate stated that he wasvery proud of the students passion, drive and commitment.

Of all the Boards students, the delegate stated that he is mostfamiliar with those of PCVS. It was noted that the students are anintegral part of the community, that the downtown offers them timeand space to be part of the community, and that community supportprovides students with the confidence to perform. It is felt that if theIntegrated Arts program is pulled from PCVS, then students willlose the opportunity to grow with local professionals.

Trustees asked the delegate if, in his opinion, schools cannot be assuccessful in an environment outside of the downtown; if the offer

to compete in California was extended to other Board schools; ifstudents from other Board schools are participating in thedowntown; as a business owner, does he become acquainted withstudents in programs other than Integrated Arts; and has he everhad a student of this Board as a co-op student.


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The delegate responded that the Integrated Arts program hasproven to be successful in the current location and if moved, thedowntown, community and students will lose out. The delegatestated that only one Ontario school could participate in the

competition and that the offer was extended to PCVS due to hisfamiliarity, as a business owner, with the students and teachers ofPCVS. The business owner confirmed that he has taken instudents from various Board secondary schools and that somehave become employees.

7.1.7 Jackie Comtois, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Jackie Comtois identified herself as a parent of three Thomas A.Stewart Secondary School students, two who have graduated, and

Ryan who passed away while attending this school.

The delegate spoke to the volunteer contributions that her twochildren have made in the community and at TASSS, and to Ryansname being on the schools Tree of Life.

J. Comtois expressed concern regarding the future of the Tree ofLife which is located in the schools front lobby and contains thenames of deceased students and teachers who were part of theTASSS family, and to other memorials and plaques that reflect thepast.

The delegate stated that the closure of any secondary school wouldbe detrimental to students and the community.


The Board recessed at 9:00 p.m.

The Board reconvened at 9:15 p.m.

7.1.8 Natalee Barker, regarding City of Peterborough Secondary

Schools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Natalee Barker identified herself as a Grade 10 Thomas A. StewartSecondary School student.

The delegate stated that the TASSS location caters to safety andthe environment. School buses are able to load and unload in aspacious area without interfering with street traffic. The Rotary Trailallows access to the school for those who want to walk or


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cycle without concern for vehicle traffic. Students are able toaccess the downtown or other areas of the city by using the bikepaths or city buses.

It was noted that TASSS is the Boards newest secondary schooland that renovations and annual maintenance keep the building inexcellent repair. Its size and room availability would allow for all thestudents of Peterborough Collegiate and Vocational School, or atleast half of the students of Adam Scott Collegiate VocationalInstitute to be housed in TASSS.

The delegate spoke to TASSS offering a wide variety of programsin Arts, technology and academics. Its athletics is strong, its musicprogram is the best in the area, and it has the only all-girlsmanufacturing class in the district. Its gymnasiums and fields have

been a mainstay of the community, often being used duringevenings and weekends. The fields and the island are host to theelementary schools that take part in the environment program thatis led by the Grade 11 Integrated Leadership program. It wasstated that no other school offers the stream study, the space tolearn survival skills and canoe, as part of their course. Thedelegate suggested that due to space availability, more specialityprograms should be offered at TASSS.

The delegate stated that the TASSS family should remain intactand that the building is large enough to expand its family.

The student noted that the June announcement of the possibleclosure of TASSS was shocking and stressful to students,especially when it was announced during the writing of exams.Students found it difficult to concentrate on studying while trying tosave their school. It was further noted that the local newspaper ranan article on the possible monetary value of the Education Centre ifit were to be sold. The delegate stated that she feels that the focushas become monetary and not on students.

The delegate asked trustees that when making their decision, that

they consider the students, their needs, and the best educationalfacilities that will allow students the opportunity to succeed.

7.1.9 Collin Chepeka, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Collin Chepeka, identified himself as a Grade 10 Integrated Artsstudent at Peterborough Collegiate and Vocational School.


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The delegate spoke passionately about the program, the schoollocation, and the learning opportunities that are available toIntegrated Arts students in the downtown.

It was noted that a downtown business has opened its stage to theschools musicians, offering live entertainment to the communitywhile promoting aspiring artists. This first step onto a real stage,playing before a live audience, provides young artists with anindescribable feeling of accomplishment and self worth. It is feltthat this atmosphere cannot be duplicated out of the downtown.

The delegate spoke to PCVS having a Special High Skills Major intheatrical theatre. Many of these students, and those in co-opplacements, are successful in finding employment. It was statedthat PCVS is home to the Arts, and where careers in the discipline

are encouraged.

It was noted that a PCVS student directed a play that was verysuccessful at the Sears Drama Festival. This student revived theplay and brought it to the Peterborough Theatre Guild. The studentwas able to do this as a result of her connections when she was aco-op student at the Guild.

The delegate spoke to Peterborough having a large community ofvisual artists. Many studios exist downtown, along with numerousvenues for productions and exhibits. Students are able to access

these opportunities without the need for transportation.

It was stated that PCVS is in the heart of the city, allowing studentsthe ability to live and create in the middle of a community of Arts.Opportunities are abundant for Integrated Arts students to beinspired by the everyday activity of people, services at thePeterborough Cenotaph in Confederation Park, and by other artists.The schools proximity allows students the ability to volunteer atlocal shelters and to clean up debris in Confederation Park.

The delegate requested that the Integrated Arts program remain at

PCVS.

In response to trustee queries, the delegate confirmed that he willfollow the Integrated Arts program regardless of where it may belocated, and that all PCVS students participate in activities at thePeterborough Cenotaph and not just the Integrated Arts students.


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7.1.10 Paul Norris, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Paul Norris, parent of children attending Thomas A. Stewart

Secondary School, provided trustees with a report entitled ABCAnalysis of the Business Case, and with a PowerPoint presentation.

The delegate stated that the authors of the report have reviewedand assessed the rationale and criteria recommended byadministration, and that based on facts from publicly availabledocuments, an alternative course of action to the recommendationsis being presented.

It was stated that the document is based on the premise that theBoard is a business which operates in a competitive environment

(market) and provides quality education to its students, parents,and taxpayers (customers). It is structured in a manner thatquestions alternatives that have been presented, speaks to logicaround the decision making process, evaluates the criteria used byadministration to support their recommendation to Board, andprovides a business case as an alternative.

The delegate stated that information presented by the Board withrespect to demographics does not correspond to various othersources of data. The Ministry of Finances demographic projectionsindicate a 10-25% growth rate in ages 0-14 for the Peterborough

area from 2010-2036. It was noted that enrolment in the Catholicschool system is stable while the public system is declining by 20-25%.

In speaking to location, on average 48% of the students are busedto one of the four secondary schools. In accordance with theProvincial Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the Cityof Peterboroughs population is forecasted to increase by 20% andemployment increase by 13.5% from 2001 to 2031. Newdevelopment planned and underway in the TASSS catchment arearanges from 800-1,100 family units. Of the four schools, TASSS

has the second shortest average bus time and the lowest cost perbused student. It was suggested that proximity to the broadercommunity and amenities may be more relevant than proximity toother schools.

It was stated that the dispersal of students would result in negativeconsequences and that relocating an entire school complement,including teachers and staff, would be the least disruptive.


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Trustees posed questions of clarification regarding the authors ofthe report and the data presented.

P. Norris confirmed that he and a group of community members

were the authors of the report. The delegate quoted sources fromwhich data was collected and reiterated that the issue of decliningenrolment in Peterboroughs public secondary schools (past andprojected) is a symptom rather than the problem itself. It wasstated that the Boards challenge is that it is losing market share ina declining market. The delegate recommended that the Boardsnewest secondary school, TASSS, not be closed.

7.1.11 Jacob Abrahamse, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Jacob Abrahamse, Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School student,spoke to his interests around music, acting, and sports, and hisgoal of becoming a physician.

The delegate identified some of the attributes of TASSS whichincluded inclusivity, acceptance, caring, cultural diversity, andexcellence in academic, sports, technical and arts programs.

The student spoke to the legacy of instrumental music excellenceat TASSS and to the success of its award winning bands atCanadian Stage Band Festival and MusicFest Canada. It was

noted that the schools music program has brought significantrecognition to the Board, locally, provincially and nationally. Thestudent stressed that if trustees proceed with the closure of TASSS,and disperse its students to other local secondary schools, thisstrong music program would be destroyed. The delegateencouraged trustees to listen to a CD of the Thomas A. StewartDixieland Band which he distributed.

J. Abrahamse spoke to TASSS having a large fully functional stage,state of the art music room, large operational greenhouse,functional science labs, gymnasiums, large spacious classrooms,

the citys only all-girls manufacturing class, a fully functional stand-alone welding instruction room, and the only specifically dedicatedfull sheet metal shop, all located on the banks of the OtonabeeRiver.

The delegate noted that he resides in a rapidly growing subdivisionlocated within close proximity to TASSS. In conducting his ownsurvey in the subdivision he found that young families with one ormore children reside in over half of the houses. Although these arepotential TASSS students, several parents indicated that if TASSS


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were to close, they would enrol their children at the modernSt. Peters Secondary School. While conducting the survey, thedelegate became aware of some families having already enrolledtheir children at St. Peters due to the uncertainty of TASSSs

future.

The student requested that the Board maintain Thomas A. StewartSecondary School as a fully functional school for students.

In response to a trustees query regarding programming and careeropportunities, the delegate stated that many students in secondaryschool do not know the career path they will take and that TASSShas more opportunities to offer students. It was suggested that jobopportunities in the Arts may not be as plentiful as those insciences and technology, but training in the Arts remains for a

lifetime and a career does not have to be made out of thisdiscipline.

7.1.12 Mark Baker and Marc Dundas, regarding City of PeterboroughSecondary Schools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Mark Baker, Western University student, and Marc Dundas,University of Guelph student, provided a PowerPoint presentationwhile speaking to the accommodation review.

The delegates stated that emotional bias and school attachment

have resulted in the inability to come to an agreement regarding anappropriate course of action. In presentations made to theAccommodation Review Committee, it appears that the focus ofimportance was on programs, and cultural and historicalsignificance, and not the physical building. It was stated that schoolfacilities, building size, building condition, parking space, grounds,programming, and classroom diversity are all directly related tostudents receiving a quality education and that this should be thefocus when considering a school for closure.

It was stated that in 1991 the local Catholic board built a new

St. Peters Secondary School and seven years later Holy CrossSecondary School was built. It was recognized that family size isdecreasing, along with overall enrolment, but it is felt that the onlylogical reason that the Catholic board is building new schools isbecause this Boards students are choosing to enrol in the newerschools. It was stated that this trend will continue if this Boardsnewest, biggest, best facility and property is closed, and that thisBoard may be repeating the closure process in Peterborough in tenyears.


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The delegates stated that a comparison of schools based onexpenditure per square foot is more relevant than comparingoperating costs. With regard to demographics, it was stated thatschool location is not a significant factor as the schools are within

7 km of each other, and if Kenner Collegiate Vocational Institute isexcluded, the proximity becomes 3 km. It is felt that current busroutes will be minimally affected and perhaps transportation costswill be reduced.

The delegates showed photographs of each secondary school andstated that it is not their intention to compare one secondary schoolto another, however it is important for trustees to analyze eachschools strengths and weaknesses. It was suggested that if aschool were to close then the population of the four schools shouldbe dispersed into the best three facilities. The delegates stated that

students, staff and programs are all transferable and that five yearsfrom now no students will have been impacted by the closure andthey will perhaps be enjoying the best years of their lives. It wasrecommended that Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School not beconsidered for closure.

In response to a trustee query concerning the presentationappearing to focus on bricks and mortar, the delegates stated thatthey were only trying to stress what TASSS has to offer and whatwill be lost if it is closed.

7.1.13 Jayde Seeley, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Jayde Seeley identified herself as a Grade 10, third generationHiawatha Ojibway student attending Thomas A. Stewart SecondarySchool.

The delegate spoke to Hiawatha students attending TASSS since1967, to the courses in native language and culture that are taughtat the school, and to the practical setting for the program.

It was noted that the Ojibway classes are more than just about thelanguage, it is about the spirit, culture and history that define nativevalues. It was stated that TASSS is unique and ideal for nativeculture due to its natural environment.

The delegate stated that TASSS offers a variety of unique courses,along with arts and academics so that students receive a well-rounded education and are able to continue to post secondarystudies.


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The delegate spoke of TASSSs aboriginal students hosting postsecondary information fairs and pow wows. It was noted that thepow wow is a gathering or celebration where a circle is formed andeveryone is equal. Dancers move in a circle in search of footprints

of their ancestors. Drums beat to the rhythm of creation, amemory, or a common spirit of celebration. The sharing of theseceremonies allow non-native students insight and opportunity toparticipate. The celebrations allow others to develop respect andunderstanding of the values and the cultures of fellow classmates.

The delegate stated that TASSS is more than a building. It hasbeen a part of Hiawathas culture and history for three generations.It is the location, the relationship to the natural habitat and thepeople that embrace the spirit and the culture.

A trustee complimented the student on the native regalia andbeautiful beadwork. Thanks and appreciation were extended tothose who were drumming, dancing and playing jazz as trusteesentered the Education Centre this evening.

A trustee asked the delegation if the native culture and students ingeneral have had teachings around water incorporated intoenvironmental science, and if there is a program specificallydedicated to water. The delegate responded that last year, inGrade 9 science, water was incorporated into the program, butthere is no course specific to this.

7.1.14 Kim Whiteside, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Kim Whiteside identified herself as the School Council Chairpersonfor Kenner Collegiate Vocational Institute and Intermediate School.

The delegate stated that the south end of Peterborough hasendured its third accommodation review in less than ten years. Asa result of these reviews, the Grade 7 and 8 students from thefeeder schools were placed in KCVI to solve its declining enrolment

problems, and Grove Public School and Confederation PublicSchool were consolidated into Roger Neilson Public School.

It was noted that the intermediate students have access toexcellent facilities at Kenner, a full music program, successfulGrade 8 gender-based classes, cafeteria, auditorium, and sportsfields. When students enter Grade 9 they are familiar with theschool, this being especially important for Learning and Life Skillsstudents.


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The delegate stated that the removal of intermediate students fromKCVI back to their feeder schools would be unfavourable.Programming would not be as varied, students would no longer beable to participate in extra-curricular programs and events, and

teachers would not have ready access to peer support and extra-curricular planning. Split Grade 7 and 8 classes may also becomea necessity at the feeder schools. It was also noted that this optionignores the Boards annual accommodation review documents.

The delegate stated that the Board has other successfulGrade 7-12 schools and that the Grade 6 students look forward toattending KCVI.

K. Whiteside spoke to the numerous administrative moves thathave taken place at the intermediate and secondary level at KCVI

during the last decade. It is felt that Kenner has been more thanaccommodating in regard to these changes.

The delegate requested that trustees reject the proposed move ofGrade 7 and 8 students back to their feeder schools.

In response to trustee queries regarding Grade 7 and 8 at KCVI,the delegate responded that more opportunities are available andthat the transition into Grade 9 is easier for students.

7.2 UNANNOUNCED DELEGATIONS

7.2.1 Sandra Orsatti, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Sandra Orsatti identified herself a parent of Thomas A. StewartSecondary School students.

The delegate spoke to next years planned dispersal of studentswhich will affect the current Grade 11 students when they are intheir final year.

It was noted that in the recent Community Report Card, the Boardsgoals are to continue to improve student achievement, narrow theachievement gap, and raise confidence in public education. Thedelegate stated that two of the reported commitments are relevantto the decision that will be made at the September Board meeting:having learning facilities that are modern, resource-based andconducive to learning; and that the Board will strive to do all that itcan to make the school experience a memorable one. Thedelegate feels that these commitments are speaking to what is


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available at TASSS. The delegate added that any decisionregarding school closure must be made within the Boards publicgoals and commitments.

As a parent, S. Orsatti stated that she would like to seePeterborough Collegiate and Vocational School and Thomas A.Stewart Secondary School merge at the TASSS site. This mergerwill provide a quality education in the best facility for a diversity ofstudents. It is a viable alternative and it meets the Boards goalsand commitments now and in the future. As a taxpayer, it wasrequested that the Education Centre not be located at the TASSSsite. As a community member, trustees were requested to bestrategic in their decision making and do what best meets the needsof students today and in the future. The decision that will be madeon September 29 will either build public confidence or erode it.


7.2.2 Abbey Nash, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Abbey Nash identified himself as a newcomer to Peterborough,with no children ever attending any of the Boards schools.

The delegate stated that his knowledge of the accommodationreview is based on what he reads in the newspapers and on

observation.

The delegate stated that Thomas A. Stewart Secondary School hasspace, modern classrooms for various programs, is architecturallyimpressive, and has beautiful grounds and sports fields. It is feltthat anyone looking to relocate to Peterborough would see TASSSas an impressive modern educational facility.

A. Nash spoke to the recent newspaper article that stated that theEducation Centre was appraised at approximately $4.9 M. Thedelegate noted that the timing of this information is questionable

and that trustees require more time for an adequate review. Therecommended relocation of the Education Centre to the TASSS sitewas also questioned and that this has nothing to do with puttingstudents first. It was suggested that a cost analysis be completedfor all the schools in question as to which would be the most costeffective and efficient as a replacement site for the EducationCentre.


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Trustees queried the delegation regarding his source ofinformation. It was brought to the delegates attention that theBoards website is an excellent location for the public to read thefacts pertaining to the accommodation review.

7.2.3 Margaret Marchen, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Margaret Marchen identified herself as School Council Chairpersonof Peterborough Collegiate and Vocational School, and presentingas a consultant for a social service agency.

The delegate stated that she works with students from all walks oflife, with and without developmental disabilities. In that role, sheprovides an advocacy for parents and students regarding education

in both local school boards. It was noted that many of the studentshave been diagnosed with hidden disabilities and although able todo academic work, they are socio-emotional challenged. It wasnoted that if high risk programs are merged into PeterboroughCollegiate and Vocational School, these students would be labelledand this is contrary to the Boards policy around inclusion.

M. Marchen noted that, PCVS students would not likely staytogether as suggested due to prohibitive busing costs, that therecommendation does not address KCVI enrolment decline, andoverall capacity is not being addressed.

It was noted that every school has a culture and what creates thatculture cannot be quantified. The delegate stated thatPeterborough needs an alternative to the typical secondary schooland PCVS is that school.


It was,Moved by: Trustee Abraham

Seconded by: Trustee Patterson

(11-144) That the meeting be extended.CARRIED

7.2.4 Barry Mortin, regarding City of Peterborough SecondarySchools Group Pupil Accommodation Review

Barry Mortin identified himself as the father of a PeterboroughCollegiate and Vocational School student.


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It is the delegates recommendation that PCVS remain open as asecondary school due to its small size. In speaking to projecteddeclining enrolment across the Board, it was suggested that theclosure of PCVS would resolve less than half the enrolment

shortfall. PCVS is in the middle of the highest area of povertywithin Peterborough and it is home to a diversity of studentsincluding those who are struggling and those who are gifted. It wasstated that studies indicate that small school size allows studentswith learning challenges, and those affected by socio-economicfactors to perform better.

B. Mortin stated that PCVS school spirit and its culture of inclusionallows students the space and respect they need to feel like theybelong. It offers a unique haven and safe environment to peersensitive teenagers. The culture at PCVS allows the Integrated

Arts program to flourish. Its relationship with downtown businessesand the art scene is like to no other.

The delegate added that he has a number of studies that supportsmall schools and these studies would be left for trustees to review.


7.3 DISPOSITION OF DELEGATION CONCERNS

It was,

Moved by: Trustee AbrahamSeconded by: Trustee A. Lloyd

(11-145) That all delegations at the August 25, 2011 Board Meeting be receivedfor information, and with thanks.

CARRIED

8. BUSINESS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Nil.

9. STUDENT TRUSTEE REPORT

Chairperson D. Lloyd noted that Student Trustee C. Grouchy was unable to be atthis evenings meeting as he was attending a conference.

The student trustees report was included in the agenda package and addressedtopics such as plans of the Student Leadership Group, the Leading to the Futurestudent-led publication, and initiatives that schools are being encouraged topromote such as Student Vote and Speak Up Projects.


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DECISION ITEMS

10. NEW BUSINESS

10.1 COMMITTEE DECISION REPORTS

Nil.

10.2 DECISION REPORTS

Nil.

10.3 CORRESPONDENCE REQUESTS

Nil.

INFORMATION ITEMS

11. OTHER REPORTS CONSENT ITEMS


Seconded by: Trustee Abraham

(11-146) That the following agenda items for the August 25, 2011 Board Meeting be

received for information:

Item 11.1 Update: City of Peterborough Secondary Schools GroupPupil Accommodation Review

Item 11.2 Employee Recognition Committee Report

A trustee requested that the following report be pulled for comment and/ordiscussion:

Item 11.1 Update: City of Peterborough Secondary Schools Group Pupil

Accommodation Review

The motion was . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . CARRIED

11.1 Update: City of Peterborough Secondary Schools Group PupilAccommodation Review

Director R. Hick presented an update report concerning the PeterboroughSecondary Schools Group Pupil Accommodation Review.


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It was noted that in administrations report to the June Board meeting, theoption to move the Education Centre to Thomas A. Stewart SecondarySchool was brought forward, in the event that the school is recommendedfor closure. This was put forward only as a way to retain the building and

property for the use of future students if enrolment should increase, and notas a result of any desire to move the functions of the Education Centre.

Along with the move of the Education Centre, it was proposed that aspecialized school environment be created at the TASSS site. The initialvision is that there would be one or two senior classes (25-50 students) witha science/mathematics focus. In addition to working on three seniorscience/math courses, students would have a fourth credit focusing onleadership/teaching where they would be working with elementary studentswho would be visiting the site on a rotational basis. This would be aregional program with students from various schools attending. This model

has been in place at the Ontario Science Centre for many years and it issimilar to some of the Boards leadership programs, although on a largerscale. All of these students would have the benefits of the naturalenvironment as well as the facilities at TASSS.

In addition to this specialized school environment, proposals for aclassroom of the future, as well as partnerships with Sir Sandford FlemingCollege and Trent University were put forward as possibilities for extendeduse of the site.

The Director stated that in order to assess as accurately as possible the

feasibility of any move, administration has engaged the services of ZASArchitects Inc. to prepare a study regarding this possible move. The draftreport is expected August 31, with the final report due September 16,allowing trustees a couple of weeks to review it prior to the September 29Board meeting.

Director R. Hick stated that Facilities Services has examined the PCVS siteand has determined approximate costs associated with making it wheelchairaccessible to be $35,000 for a stage lift, $550,000 for an elevator, and acouple of doors at $1,000 per door. This pricing includes costs such asfees, asbestos management, permits, hardware, installation, etc. The

Director provided an overhead presentation of the PCVS site. It was notedthat wheelchair accessible parking spots and a level sidewalk to the exteriorentrance would be created. By using the elevator, an individual could godown a half floor to access the entire basement, or up half a floor to accessthe first floor, and further up to access the second floor and the rest of thebuilding.


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A lengthy discussion was held, with trustees posing questions aroundaccessibility, specialized programming, transportation, school boundaries,designation of funds if the Education Centre is sold, and enrolmentprojections and demographics.

Mark Galonski, Controller of Facilities Services, confirmed that thewheelchair accessibility costing for PCVS is an internal estimate, based onknowledge of the school facility as a result of previous upgrades andrenovations, and previous experience with installing elevators. It wasconfirmed that the architectural society would be consulted, as they have inthe past, with regard to renovations and upgrades to the building. DirectorHick confirmed that M. Galonski is a professional engineer, and it isexpected that all school facilities will be fully accessible by 2025. TheDirector also confirmed that at an Accommodation Review Committeemeeting, J. Amer of the Peterborough Collegiate and Vocational School

Foundation made a comment that if an elevator was the issue for PCVS, theFoundation would make an endeavour to overcome this. The Directorstated that it would be reasonable to assume that the Foundations assetsare not $550,000.

In responding to questions around the specialized program, Director R. Hickstated that the TASSS site is unique in a number of areas including itsspace, natural environment, shops, and science labs. The vision is that aspecialized science school be built on the Ontario Science Centre model.Unique partnerships could occur with other post secondary institutions, andGrade 5 students could come in under the tutelage and direction of senior

students, with teachers being present. It was stated that a cross curriculumof projects could take place, with items such as mini robots and water craftbeing built. The Director confirmed that there would be transportation costsinvolved for elementary students to participate in this specialized program,and that these costs would have to be factored in, possibly through Board-dedicated, school, or parent funding. It was noted that TASSS would stillhave a school designation, a Ministry of Education identification number,and would receive student grants and generate staffing. In providingclarification, the Director spoke to how a school can remain a school, but beclosed as a school. It was stated that a school closure is when more than50% of the students are moved and an accommodation review process is

followed. Presumably, 49% of the students can remain in a school, with thesite keeping its Ministry of Education identification number, and anaccommodation review taking place due to the number of students beingmoved. The Director stated that he is confident that what is beingrecommended for TASSS is doable and meets Ministry of Educationrequirements.

The Director confirmed that the decision that will be made by trustees will bedifficult for students and community. It was noted that despite some of theopinions presented by delegations, there are well over 100,000 less


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school age students in the province now than a few years ago. We are in adeclining enrolment environment and have to do something so that ourstudents receive the best programming in order to be successful afterleaving secondary school. It was noted that students will endure some

turmoil and that is regrettable, but once a decision is made onSeptember 29, and if a school is recommended for closure, administrationwill immediately set up a committee to make the transition as positive,appropriate and respectful for whichever school that might be.

Director R. Hick provided an overhead presentation showing the location ofthe four secondary schools in the City of Peterborough. It was noted thatamalgamating PCVS and TASSS is not necessarily the most logicalsolution. Queen Mary, Prince of Wales, and Westmount Public Schools allfeed PCVS, with the exception of French Immersion students fromWestmount and Prince of Wales Public Schools going to Adam Scott

Collegiate Vocational Institute (ASCVI). If PCVS is removed from thescenario, then Adam Scott Collegiate Vocational Institute or KennerCollegiate Vocational Institute (KCVI), or Crestwood Secondary School willbecome the closer school for many students to attend. The range ofprogramming available at a facility like TASSS is also available at ASCVIand KCVI. If TASSS were to close, students from Armour Heights PublicSchool would have a choice of attending ASCVI or PCVS. It was stated thatthe amalgamation of the two schools, PCVS and TASSS, does notcompletely address the issue of declining enrolment.

John Lawrence, Superintendent of Business and Corporate Services

confirmed that if the Education Centre were sold and relocated to theTASSS site, the proceeds of the sale would be retained by the Board, withflexibility of use. The money could be used to acquire or renovate foradministrative purposes since the building being sold is an administrativebuilding. It was noted that the proceeds from the sale of a school cannot beused for administrative purposes.

Director R. Hick stated that the study being conducted by ZAS ArchitectsInc. is expected to cost approximately $27,000. It was noted that ZAS wasthe lowest tender of three and that the cost is appropriate when we arespeaking of a multimillion dollar operations.

Chairperson D. Lloyd stated that administration has presented trustees witha proposal and other options, and that a secondary school needs to close.Trustees will need to make a choice on September 29 but what happens tothat school does not need to be determined on September 29.

A trustee spoke to being uncertain about choosing between TASSS, a jewelof a site, and PCVS, a school located downtown with its own culture and theIntegrated Arts program. It was suggested that ASCVI should be includedin the mix. The trustee spoke to delegations presenting enrolment


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projections around demographics that are in opposition to that ofadministrations. It was requested that before September 29, administrationconfirm that the current secondary population is at 3,000 and is projected to beapproximately 2,300 four years out. The trustee also asked that administration

bring forward information around the inclusion of ASCVI as a third option.

The Director confirmed that administration has looked at all four schools anddoes not recommend ASCVI or KCVI as their enrolment is strong and continuesto look strong, they are accessible and they are located in residentialneighbourhoods. TASSS is located primarily in an area of senior housing,condos, empty nesters, rentals for Trent University students, and a golf course.It was stated that a school needs to be closed so that students can have accessto better programming now and in the future and it is difficult to provide a rangeof quality programming in schools with low enrolment.

A trustee suggested that a speciality class for aboriginal studies be locatedat TASSS. The Director stated that students from Hiawatha First Nation areenrolled in an assortment of courses so the component of the program thatis Ojibway or native language, which is open to all students, is hard toseparate and the question then becomes what would they do for the rest ofthe curriculum. It was further noted that Hiawatha students require thesame courses as other students in order to graduate, such as history andmathematics. The Director stated that if TASSS were to close, as part ofthe implementation process, administration would look at creating the bestpossible environment for all students, including First Nations students, sothat they can be provided with an environment that reflects their culture and

respects and honours their traditions.

Another trustee requested that by September 29, administration provide abreakdown of those who live within the PCVS boundary area so thattrustees can have an indication of where they are coming from.

Another trustee stated that compassionate arguments have been heard atthis meeting for both PCVS and TASSS and that trustees have raisedlegitimate questions. The trustee spoke to TASSSs attributes and to theopportunity of having something outstanding, an academy of both arts andscience. It was noted that costs will be involved but these can beovercome. The trustee stated that he is arguing for vision and it surmountsevery other consideration that has been heard this evening.

The Director stated that visits will be scheduled for trustees to tour thesecondary schools. Dates for these tours will be provided to trustees inconfidence so that they can see how each school operates on a daily basis,with students going about their normal daily activities.

In preparation for the September Board meeting, Chairperson D. Lloydsuggested that trustees forward any further questions to administration andthat all trustees be copied.


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12. BOARD MEMBER ADDITIONS

12.1 The Rick Hansen 25th Anniversary Relay

Trustee Abraham noted that The Rick Hansen 25th

Anniversary Relay willengage 7,000 participants (Difference Makers) from across Canada who arelocal heroes in the community who are making a difference in the lives ofothers. The relay is expected to take place in Northumberland andClarington communities from November 1-3.

13. FUTURE MEETING DATES

Chairperson Diane Lloyd drew attention to the future meeting dates listed in theBoard agenda.

14. REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE IN-CAMERA SESSION

Nil.

15. QUESTION PERIOD

Chairperson Diane Lloyd opened the meeting to questions from the floor. Noquestions were posed.

16. ADJOURNMENT


Seconded by: Trustee Wilfong

(11- 147) That the meeting be adjourned (12:30 a.m.).CARRIED

Diane LloydChairperson of the Board

W.R. (Rusty) HickDirector of Education

and Secretary of the Board

Kawartha Pine Ridge

07. august 25, 2011 open session board minutes

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