October 1, 2009 Consultation Minutes

Instructional Consultation
10-01-09

Meeting called to order at 4:30 P.M. First order of business is the Approval of Aspire awards for teachers, campus based staff, principals, executive principals and regional superintendents covers items E-1, E-2, and E-3. 43.1 million dollars for ASPIRE awards for the 2008-2009 year.

SPM 4302.1A forms developed for requests for information, and response forms. Question was raised about the minutes of the instructional consultation meeting. We were assured that the minutes would be posted by the end of the week.

HEA question on the SDMC, does every campus have one, what is its function and how is it created. SDMC is advisory to the principal, responsible for professional development for the campus and other issues and is elected not appointed. SDMC should be 2/3 classroom teachers, 1/3 staff and support. Over and over again this issue comes up. This needs to be explained to the principals, again.

Issue was raised of large numbers of older teachers targeted for growth plans. Teachers who have 25+ years of service are over 50 are being removed from MPDAS and placed on PDAS and a serious attempt is being made to get them to retire or resign. Administration will investigate this and check data.

HFT concern H1N1 vaccinations what are the plans? Administration response there are no firm plans at this time. The districts role has not been defined at this point in time. We will advise as soon as we know.

Jury Duty leave policy. There is no change in the current policy. Dismissal at noon, is a problem. Whole day is still possible. What about funeral leave for brothers and sisters? This needs to be addressed. OFF Campus duty is not on the form. Absence form should not be filled out for off campus duty. This needs to be addressed. Length of duty day has been dropped. Sick leave is based of the 7.75 hour day. Administration says it is in the compensation manual and in the hierarchy of importance the compensation manual is lord.

Core works has stopped all reports to principals on teachers; the tool is not mandated it is offered as a resource.

What is a teacher to do? A student runs from room. If you chase your wrong if you don’t chase your wrong. Administration needs more details. Best effort is to notify office that student has left without permission. Really need more information.
Grading policy state law defines failing grade. Complaints from Westside indicate teachers are being directed to consider any grade below 80 failing. Why can’t a simple policy language be followed? Administration will advise principal. Grading policy needs flexibility. One size does not fit all.

Lesson Plans as of two days ago the problem at Ortiz M.S. has been corrected. It is time to grieve these issues. The law is very clear. Principals need to be clued in. When the staff rep cannot get through to the principal then there is a problem.

If you have mandated after school meetings talk to the regional office and the issue should be resolved.

Adjourned at 5:24 P.M.