MINUTES

Thursday, April 15^th , 2004, Room 214 – City Hall

Present: Jamey Nystrom, Reginald Gunter, George Yourick, Dave Markoe, Ron Peppe, Marty Cifrese, Vinny Hughes, Cindy Small, Alderman Donna Kuzemchak Ramsburg, Linda Burgee, Ray Barnes, Beverly Tuggle, Debbie Bostian, Eileen Farrar

Introductions and Announcement – Jamey Nystrom opened the meeting and introductions were made.

Speaker – Mr. Ray Barnes passed out information to the Commission regarding redistricting and studies that have been done. Mr. Barnes stated that almost all of the schools have been involved in redistricting over the last several years and the handout from Mr. Barnes reflected the areas effected from 1987 to 2003. Mr. Barnes stated that with the opening of new schools and construction redistricting occurs. Mr. Barnes stated that the Board of Education has changed its policy over the years with regard to redistricting and reviewed the policy with the Commission. Mr. Barnes stated that once a decision is made to do a redistricting study, specific procedures are set in place such as looking at temporary measures to produce enrollment and if that becomes inadequate then more permanent procedures are put in place. Mr. Barnes proceeded to discuss how decisions are made by the Board of Education. Mr. Barnes stated that under Maryland Law the Board of Education has the final authority to make decisions on changes with regard to school district boundaries. Mr. Barnes stated that these changes are made one year in advance of school opening. A lengthy conversation continued regarding a section of the policy with regard to breaking up the socio-economic divides that make for a better balance of students. Mr.Barnes further discussed APFO’s and how it helps the county and had suggestions for the city regarding school renovations . Mr. Barnes also suggested that at the Development Review Process that land be set aside for schools in appropriate areas. Mr. Barnes explained that in September of every year the Board of Education approves a ten year master plan and that this includes a line up of projects in priority order. Questions were asked about renovations to South Frederick Elementary and North Frederick Elementary School and when they would occur. Alderman Ramsburg stated the need for each person on the Commission to bring in other people to stress the importance of these renovations. Marty Cifrese stated that there needs to some communications on the State Delegates level. Vinny Hughes suggested that the commission take some action and possibly set up groups or teams of people to act. Jamey Nystrom asked the Commission if they would like to invite the Board of County Commission to a commission meeting. Alderman Ramsburg thought it was too late in the budget year. Dave Markoe thought it might be a good idea to meet with the commissioners now, not for this year, but to start laying the foundation for the future or next year. Ron Peppe stated that May 5^th was the joint hearing on the operating budget and that Tuesday, April 20^th, was the joint meeting regarding the capitol and operating budget between the BOCC and BOE at Winchester Hall. Alderman Ramsburg suggested that everyone contact three schools’ administration and PTA’s to let them know about the meeting on April 20^th. Ron Peppe stated that this would be his last meeting due to his retirement from the Board of Education and Jamey Nystrom will contact the Board to see who his replacement will be on the Commission. The May 13^th, commission meeting will be a discussion on what questions need to be asked of the Board of Education and The Board of County Commissioners. Ms. Nystrom asked Ms. Cifrese to speak about expelled and suspended students at the next meeting.

Community news

George Yourick stated Hillcrest Elementary and West Frederick Middle is now working on how to deal with the extended learning positions (11-month). Mr. Yourick stated that Title One funds ($900,000) has been cut from Frederick County Schools. Linda Burgee stated there will now be three Title One schools instead of six next year which will be Hillcrest, South Frederick and Waverly and will see a minimal reduction in materials.

Linda Burgee would like to update the commission at a future meeting about the elementary demographic study trying to reduce high concentrations of poverty at South Frederick, Hillcrest and Waverly schools.

Dave Markoe stated that the YMCA has been asked to pick up South Frederick for childcare services and that the cost will be about $600,000. Mr. Markoe also stated that efforts are being made to achieve these funds.

The next meeting will be Thursday May 13^th, 2004 at 4:30p.m. in room 214 at City Hall.

Minutes submitted by Eileen Farrar