WASHINGTON STATE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
BOARD
OF TRUSTEES
Minutes from Board of Trustees Meeting
November 17-18, 2011
Vancouver, Washington
Board Members Participating: Denise Colley, Sherry
Perry, Steve Rainey, Jim Kemp, Ed Snook, Elaine Akagi, and John Glenn.
Board Members Absent: Yang-su Cho and Lorna Walsh.
Ex-Officio Members Participating: Berl
Colley (Washington Council of the Blind) and Paul Baldwin (Teachers
Association).
Ex-Officio Members Absent: Mike Freeman (National
Federation of the Blind of Washington), Denise Vestman (Parent Rep.), and Scott
Hone (Washington Federation of State Employees Local #1225).
WSSB Staff Members Participating: Dr.
Dean Stenehjem (Superintendent), Jessica Sydnor (Human Resources Manager),
Karen Mowry (Director of On-Campus), Lori Pulliam (Director of Transition
Services), Sherry Hahn (Digital Learning Coordinator), Rob Tracey (Facilities
Manager), and Janet Kurz (recording secretary).
November 17 –
7:00–9:00pm
Jim called the meeting to order at 7:00pm. Jim welcomed everyone.
Department
Updates:
Lori Pulliam, Director of Transition Services:
o
Lori reported the students are staying busy with Daily Living
Skills and Recreation opportunities.
o
There are very few available beds in the cottages with more
students arriving soon.
o
The Learning Independence for Today and Tomorrow (LIFTT) program
is at capacity.
o
Steve asked what enrollment was. Karen stated it is in the normal range
(68 at this time); however the difference is that the residential student
numbers have increased while day student enrollment is lower than usual.
Sherry Hahn, Digital Learning Coordinator:
o
Sherry reported that the National Science Foundation (NSF) grant
will be resubmitted to include that the SteppingStones grant was received.
o
Sherry stated that having the Microsoft group at WSSB excited the
students. Steve asked if most of the
students were high school age. Sherry
said yes. Dr. Stenehjem stated the
Microsoft employees had a great time watching the technology in action and they
are interested in including WSSB students as alpha testers. [Would be great for
Microsoft to include students in some of the development work to assist with
products that are both accessible and usable.
Students can be great resources.]
o
Discussion was held regarding the differences with accessibility
between Microsoft and Apple products.
Rob Tracey, Facilities Manager:
o
Rob reported he has an update to his report regarding LEED
status. When the LEED application was
originally submitted, WSSB received 23 points and 33 points are needed to
obtain LEED “Silver” status. WSSB
recently found out we were evaluated based on a prior version of requirements,
therefore the application will be reviewed again and Rob feels WSSB has a good
chance at being rated LEED “Gold”. WSSB is concerned because this was to occur
almost three years ago and was in the hands of General Administration, this
delay has caused major concern for WSSB.
o
Dr. Stenehjem and Rob met with personnel from the Department of
Enterprise Services (DES) Motor Pool division.
WSSB was informed our motor pool costs were going to increase by 64%,
however while at the meeting the DES personnel stated they sent WSSB the wrong
data. WSSB will only be charged an
additional .1 cent per mile for over 500 miles per month. The motor pool personnel still believes WSSB
could save $1000 per year, however this only applies until WSSB has to replace
vehicles, then the rates increase. Discussion was held regarding Outreach needs
due to a 12% increase in services since the beginning of the school year. Dr. Stenehjem stated WSSB will look at trying
to serve students through Distance Learning where possible. During the meeting, Rob noted several
inefficiencies, i.e. WSSB not being able to inspect vehicle tires, change oil,
etc. The motor pool personnel will
review this information and looks like WSSB will once again be able to handle
some of this on-campus and bill the motor pool for the work we can do more
efficiently.
o
WSSB held a meeting with the energy service audit company through
DES. DES has a company who will do a
complete audit for WSSB (light bulbs, motion sensors, motor size, steam
generation, etc.). Steve stated 7-9 years
ago when boilers were selected, the boilers were over-engineered. Dr. Stenehjem stated when the Kennedy
building was constructed, WSSB asked for a different
configuration for boilers to maximize efficiency and downsized the boilers from
the engineers recommendations.
Karen Mowry, Director of On-Campus:
o
Steve stated that it looks like enrollment for high school age
students is high. Karen stated there are a lot of middle school age students as
well. Steve asked what percentage of students were multi-handicapped. Karen stated approximately 50%, however this varies from year to year.
o
John has a student from his district (Bellingham) that is at WSSB
on an evaluation basis. John stated it
was great to be able to see her at WSSB.
Jessica Sydnor, Human Resources:
o
Jess reported SafeSchools.com (staff safety training opportunity)
has been launched with 44 additional clock hours available. Last year, the goal was to have 60 clock
hours available, this year, the goal is 100.
o
Jess’ focus recently has been recruiting intermittents. Jess received 76 emails from candidates who
have master’s degrees, etc. WSSB has
hired many intermittents into full-time positions. Sherry asked if WSSB is recruiting Registered
Nurses (RN’s) for the health center.
Jess said yes.
o
Jess spoke to Small Agency Client Services (SACS) today. Due to numerous scheduled vacations in their
department, Accounts Payables may be delayed (reimbursements, etc.). Steve asked if the relationship with SACS is
getting better. Dr. Stenehjem stated
WSSB was concerned with budget analysis, however this has greatly improved and
things are working out well. Jess stated
the staff at SACS have always been good to work
with. WSSB received a nice email today
from one of their staff stating that other agencies they work with have not
been easy due to their forced consolidation and thanked WSSB staff for being
patient and good to work with.
o
Jess stated that Cindy Varley (front desk and outreach secretary)
has been doing an outstanding job helping out with the Business Office.
o
Steve asked if the candidates for intermittent positions are older
or younger. Jess said she is seeing a
mix of ages and abilities. Steve asked how WSSB deals with the criteria of
intermittents if WSSB wants to groom them for full-time employees. Jess said the bigger issues
becomes the issue of fitness for duty.
Jim asked if WSSB can hire state retirees. Jess said WSSB has to be careful with the new
state law and potential of reducing of retirement benefits. The benchmark for hours state retirees can
work without being penalized is 867.2 hours per year.
Craig Meador, Director of Outreach (report given by Dr.
Stenehjem):
o
Dr. Stenehjem stated that Craig is in Spokane working with our new
Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI), Emily Coleman. Craig is also attending his doctoral program
classes in Spokane. When WSSB hired
Emily, she did not have a full case-load, however now the word has spread and
her caseload is full.
o
Craig recently visited Colville. This request for a visit stemmed
from a meeting earlier in the year where Craig, John Glenn and Dr. Stenehjem
met with TVI’s and other folks in British Columbia. One of the TVI’s from
Nelson, B.C. was providing services to Colville and contacted WSSB about trying
to help the Colville School District, which would be better than her
contracting out of Nelson, B.C. Dr.
Stenehjem feels that a second TVI may be needed in that area of the state in
the near future.
o
WSSB will be visited by Cary Supalo from Penn State on December
8. Cary will be demonstrating accessible
equipment for Science. Cary is working
on his doctorate in chemistry. Dr. Stenehjem said it may be good to talk with
the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) regarding the STEM program regarding
a graphing calculator. Many TVI’s would like to see something better in place
than is currently available. Paul said that Lisa Hodge (WSSB TVI) utilizes the
graphing calculator with her math students.
Business Meeting:
Old Business:
o
Approval of Minutes for September 16-17, 2011 Board of Trustees
Meeting. Denise moved to approve the
minutes, Steve seconded the motion. The
minutes passed unanimously.
New Business:
o
WASA/WSSDA Legislative Conference – January 29-30, 2012.
¨
Dr. Stenehjem was not sure if it would be beneficial for board
members to attend due to the legislator’s schedule, topics relating primarily
to public schools, etc. Dr. Stenehjem
will stay in touch with the Board regarding this. Steve stated the Special
Legislative Session begins November 28, and then the normal session meets
mid-January.
Superintendent’s
Report
Dr. Stenehjem reported the following:
Dr. Stenehjem has a meeting with the Oregon Department of
Education (ODE) on November 18. A good
relationship has been established with personnel at the ODE. Dr. Stenehjem’s
contact is interested in discussing possibilities and partnerships between the
states. Steve stated it sounds like this meeting may have resulted from his
meeting with Oregon State Representative Sarah Gelser. The meeting on November
18 is with the person who facilitates all of the regional programs. These programs need to see WSSB as an
opportunity and the ability to expand range of service and opportunities for
students. This could result in partnerships for student and staff training,
summer school, and could possibly eliminate borders and look at what makes
sense. Dr. Stenehjem stated WSSB will only take out of state students on a
space available basis at this time. This could change in the future, based upon
agreements with Oregon.
Dr. Stenehjem stated the Oregon School for the Blind ran great
summer programs for students. These were
primarily funded by Lions and Elks Clubs.
This summer, the Washington School for the Blind Foundation (WSBF) has
committed to funding the summer school program ($65,000). The goal is to get
Oregon and Washington Lions Clubs working together to help fund programs for
blind students. The first meeting with the two state Lions clubs will be in
January. This not only entails funding possibilities but also getting Lions
more involved as volunteers. The Lions Clubs in SW WA and Oregon are both
interested in working together. The
District 36-O Governor in Oregon would like to take on WSSB as a project next
year during her term. More details need
to be worked out, but WSSB was happy to see this type of interest from across
the Columbia River.
The WSBF is changing its name to the Pacific Foundation for Blind
Children to broaden their footprint.
About three years ago, WSSB wanted to allow staff to buy their own
cell phone and have the state reimburse them based upon some type of
formula. Dr. Stenehjem stated the
Internal Revenue Service likes this because it is taxable and he knew that some
other states had implemented this type of procedure. WSSB was told we could not
do this. However, times have changed and
a few agencies have been given permission to move forward in implementation of
such a practice. Dr. Stenehjem followed
up and has created a policy. This policy
will be rolled out for Outreach staff and administrators who are on call. WSSB’s phone system will allow a forwarding
feature whereby if people call a cell phone that belongs to a state employee,
it can automatically be forwarded to their cell phone. Dr. Stenehjem would like
to see the system can do the reverse as well; this would help keep the persons
cell phone number confidential. The problem with this is that we would not want
to cause a problem for personal use. More research needs to be done in this
area.
Dr. Stenehjem stated WSSB has been tracking our budget information
closely. End of September showed a
positive balance with the trend being the same for the end of October ($210,000
positive balance). Dr. Stenehjem would
like this number to continue to grow so if WSSB has to take a 5% reduction, no
additional reductions would need to be made that are not already in the works,
as per our budget reduction plan. Dr. Stenehjem stated there are several
variables (i.e. weather conditions, if staff goes on long-term leave,
etc.). The partnership with Oregon has
been a big factor in helping us maintain a positive balance. This has been a
win/win situation whereby Oregon students are receiving services that would not
otherwise be available and Washington has been able to realize additional
efficiencies.
Capital Budget projects are moving forward. Sherry asked if it would be difficult to
obtain funds for roof repair/replacement. Dr. Stenehjem stated not at this time
because WSSB already received $550,000 in capital budget appropriations for a
range of projects with the roof repair being the top priority.
If WSSB goes through a 10% budget reduction, WSSB may have to
eliminate the elementary program. This would be the last thing we would want to
do as part of the reduction. Dr. Stenehjem’s first option would be to eliminate
day student transportation. This would be difficult due to the fact that WSSB
contracts with the ESD 112 for services and there is a 120-day cancelation
clause. If day transportation was eliminated and the school could pay parents
at $.51 per mile the school would save approximately $95,000. Dr. Stenehjem
sent a letter to all parents stating budget reduction options including the
potential of elimination of day student transportation. John asked if a bus driver position could be
reduced if this happens. Dr. Stenehjem
stated it could. Jim said one of the
first things in the Governor’s budget under reductions is canceling transportation
for schools. It was stated that special
education transportation was not included in this recommendation.
Sherry asked what TSR was. Dr. Stenehjem explained that when state
employees took a 3% budget reduction, staff were
offered 5.2 hours of leave per month to offset this. This has become difficult with direct service
personnel and will negatively impact WSSB by $30,000. After the school year is
over, WSSB has to add back 52 hours of paid leave (approximately 5.2 hours per
month) to offset the leave they were not able to take. The TSR is not supposed to affect retirement.
This is a good example of how a pass-through reduction that is not supposed to
have a negative impact on an agency doesn’t always work this way.
Dr. Stenehjem stated the revenue forecast was $122 million less
than September forecasted however it was noted this is not significant. The
biggest concern the state economist has is what is going on in Europe. Italy
has reported they are $1.4 trillion in debt and this could impact the US and
may result in another recession. The
positives are: Boeing is looking great,
private sectors are starting to see growth, etc. but there is still loss in the
public sector.
Dr. Stenehjem has met with several legislators over the past few
weeks. Legislators have remarked that
during the special legislative session they may entertain the possibility of
looking at increasing revenues. They are
not sure that we can just continue to cut ourselves out of this crisis.
Dr. Stenehjem stated levy equalization levels playing field for
financial support for school districts.
Evergreen and Vancouver receives the greatest amount of dollars in SW
Washington. If Levy equalization is
eliminated (as proposed in the Governor’s budget), many teachers in these
districts may lose their jobs. John heard this has resulted in equity suits with
districts. Dr. Stenehjem stated years ago the state created a salary schedule
(LEAP) and this was instituted to help level the playing field, however, this
was circumvented by TRI (Time, Responsibility, Incentive) money funds for
teachers (each district can determine their budget for TRI money funds which
must be paid out of local mil levy dollars.
WSSB went to the Supreme Court to battle this issue; and it was
determined that state dollars cannot be used to pay for TRI funds (the law is
written that funds have to be paid out of mil levy dollars). Dr. Stenehjem suggested he would prefer in
the future to see salaries for teachers raised and to eliminate TRI’s, which
could return some equity to the state system.
Committee
Reports:
Education Committee: Paul
stated that he and Karen will be meeting in the near future to determine a time
for the committee to meet.
Buildings and Grounds Committee (annual inspection to begin at
8:00am on 11/18/11).
Management Committee: Dr.
Stenehjem held a conference call with the management committee to discuss
budget reduction and other issues.
Legislative Committee: The
committee has not yet met.
Ex-Officio’s
Reports
Teachers – Paul Baldwin:
o
Paul reported there is nothing major going on with the teachers and
they are making the best of a rough situation with fewer staff. Paul stated the staff is getting along well
with Karen.
Washington Council of the Blind (WCB) – Berl Colley:
o
Berl stated the only major thing since the last Board meeting is
the WCB’s convention that was held in Pasco.
Dr. Stenehjem attended the conference and presented. The convention was well attended considering
the tough economic times. Berl doesn’t
have the final figures with how many people attended the convention or banquet
yet. The American Council of the Blind’s second Vice President (national
level), Brenda Dillon and her husband attended.
Berl noted that a couple from Florida participated and a person from
North Dakota attended several trainings and break-out sessions. This was Denise’s last year as state
President with Cindy VanWinkle taking that position on January 1, 2012. Jim
stated he attended the conference and was very impressed. Denise reported that Secretary of State Sam
Reed attended. The WCB was able to thank
Sam for all of the assistance he gave the Washington Talking Book and Braille
Library, etc.
Executive
Session
An executive session was called to order. There being no further business, the meeting
adjourned at 9:00pm.
November 18 – 8:00–10:30am
Optional: Board visit
classrooms in Irwin
November 18 – 10:30–11:30am
Jim reconvened the meeting at
10:30am.
Business
Meeting (continued):
Buildings and Grounds Committee (annual inspection 11/18/11)
o
Sherry and the committee toured the campus with Rob and Dr.
Stenehjem. Steve will create a draft
report, send it to the committee for review, and will then circulate the final
report to the Board. At the March Board
meeting, the committee will do a follow-up walk-through.
o
Berl stated one of the things the committee discussed was that the
walk-through in March will be more of an informal review.
o
Dr. Stenehjem stated all energy components have been tracked so
that gas usage, kilowatt usage, etc. can be analyzed. Dr. Stenehjem stated the state has benchmarks
for energy, solar requirements, etc. and data points are required to be met,
however WSSB has been ahead of the curve in many areas, so it is difficult to
improve as per state requirements.
Miscellaneous
Jim stated a question was asked regarding the pace or length of
the Board meeting. Jim asked for
opinions.
o
Sherry felt it would be helpful during the department reports to
have managers explain the terms, technology, include what acronyms are,
etc. Dr. Stenehjem said he encourages
department managers to explain some of the items in their reports.
o
Steve stated it may be appropriate that in Digital/Distance
Learning area, spending some time during one meeting to show the technology.
Steve spoke to the math teacher, JJ Issacson and she told Steve that WSSB is on
the forefront in technology, etc.
o
Dr. Stenehjem suggested that at each meeting one specialty area is
focused on at each meeting, i.e. Sherry Hahn can showcase the newest technology,
perhaps have the math teacher show, via Distance Learning the capabilities.
o
John stated that when JJ sat down with the student and John to
demonstrate the iPad’s capabilities, it was very helpful. Dr. Stenehjem mentioned that the work that
J.J. is doing on the I-Pad allows parents, through a special YouTube account,
to access each classroom session, learn what goes on in the classroom and also
see the student’s homework, which facilitates parents being able to help their
child.
o
John remarked about his conversation with the ‘teacher in the box’
(Robin Lowell). JJ and Robin both work
on the meaning of math terms and this helps greatly. John stated without the visuals it is difficult
and the capability of correcting immediately is a huge advantage. John wished
the rest of the people in the state could see the technology in action.
o
Dr. Stenehjem stated the Association for Education and
Rehabilitation of the Blind and Visually Impaired (AER) will have an
International conference next year in Bellevue, WA (July, 2012) and WSSB would
like to submit information.
o
Sherry felt that making a connection with the teachers, nurses,
etc. would be very beneficial.
o
Sherry and Steve commented on Jennifer Langley’s quality of
teaching and ability with students. Dr.
Stenehjem stated two young men who recently entered the WSSB program want to
start their own band. They have a lead
singer and approached Dr. Stenehjem regarding this. Dr. Stenehjem asked the students to discuss
it with Jennifer and will then have a concert this spring.
o
Denise preferred when the managers reviewed their reports. Denise enjoys having the staff talk about
their reports as she becomes more knowledgeable and it inspires questions.
o
Denise would like to better understand the specifics of the numerous
partnerships Dr. Stenehjem is working on.
o
Berl would like to schedule time to go up and look through the
LIFTT area, talk to the staff regarding their goals, talk to the students,
etc.
o
Steve suggested department managers highlight one-two items on
their reports for the Board.
o
Ed felt that the department managers are also sensitive to the
Board’s busy schedule, etc.
o
Dr. Stenehjem stated that about 10 years ago there were a number
of obese blind students and that trend has changed; Dr. Stenehjem feels it is
in part due to Jennifer Butcher’s focus on the “fit for life” program (health,
exercise, etc.). Ed stated that there
are students who swim with one of the swim clubs (Vancouver Swim Club) who
rents the pool.
o
Dr. Stenehjem highlighted the self-directed medication program and
feels WSSB is one of the only schools that has this program. This has been a
very positive program for students and also one more key to independence.
o
Jim stated in planning the future board meetings, asked if it is
beneficial to have a Thursday and Friday meeting. Dr. Stenehjem stated that it depended on the
Board’s work schedules. Berl likes the
Thursday and Friday schedule. John
stated his boss is very supportive and it is no problem (date to be determined
at a later meeting).
Dr. Stenehjem stated that regarding partnerships he would like the
Board’s input to see if they have ideas or thoughts. Dr. Stenehjem stated sometimes it takes years
to establish partnerships.
Denise would like more information regarding CANnect and also
regarding WSSB’s student evaluation process.
Dr. Stenehjem stated that Craig Meador could discuss the Outreach’s role
in doing a one-time evaluation for students or services needed in school
districts. Ed reiterated that Denise is
also interested in how students are evaluated on the campus. Dr. Stenehjem suggested WSSB’s evaluation
team come to one of the meetings to explain the process.
Ed stated it would be nice to have different teachers speak about
their jobs; the Board could learn more and it would give the Board the
opportunity to thank them for what they do.
Denise stated that Dee used to invite a TVI to one of the meetings;
Denise would like an Outreach TVI come to a meeting to discuss what they
do. Ed would like to meet a TVI in his
area to have coffee.
Dr. Stenehjem explained the evaluation process whereby students
are evaluated in each core area along with academics to determine the most
appropriate program. Dr. Stenehjem stated the two teachers who have the biggest
caseload based upon their specific discipline are Jennifer Langley (Music) and
Jennifer Butcher (Fit for Life). John
remarked that Jennifer B. is working with each student setting up individual
programs and he was very impressed. John mentioned this coming from his
background as a PE Teacher. John feels
this is a special talent. WSSB has
excellent teachers/staff and Jennifer is a good example of staff dedicated to
help students succeed and become independent.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at
11:30am. The next Board meeting will be
held via conference call on January 17, 2012.
James
Kemp, Chair Dean
O. Stenehjem, Ed.D., Superintendent
Board Reports - November 2011
Growth
We
began the year by hiring two additional teachers and as of today (November 9)
their caseloads are nearly at capacity.
We are serving ten new districts this year; eight are on the east side
of the mountains. These districts
represent 42 new students on Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and several
referrals to be determined (overall this represents a growth of 12% in
districts being served).
Needs in the districts served
Evaluations
and referrals continue to roll into the districts we serve. We are struggling
to keep up with requests. This is not a new situation and is very familiar
territory for Outreach. In several
districts we have increased contracts to meet these needs. Our current concern
is that many of our teachers are at capacity and cannot take on additional
students. At this point we are looking at using former teachers, and I to cover
evaluations and monthly consult students.
It is my hope that the requests will begin to level off as we move into
the new year.
Needs in the state
We
continue to receive phone calls from districts requesting service. Currently
Northshore, Issaquah, Granite Falls, Republic and Puyallup have expressed
need. I believe we could hire another
teacher for the Seattle/Tacoma area and fill the contract within a short amount
of time. I see that the needs will
continue to grow and we will begin some forward planning after the first of the
year.
The technology bloom
Currently
we are experiencing a technology wave similar to that of the mid 1990’s when
Assistive Technology made a shift from the Apple II E to Microsoft based
products. At this time many programs
came on the scene offering up new access to blind and visually impaired (BVI)
students. WSSB was at the forefront in creating scripts for JAWS, Intellitools,
Braille N speak, etc. Bruce McClanahan
was on the road full time trying to help meet the needs of districts. The
recent birth of the I-Pad, blue tooth keyboards, and Braille displays has
ushered in a new era. We are trying to quickly master this process and be a
resource for the state. These new tools are offering real options for districts
with a price tag 65% less than the purchase of a top of line BrailleNote. At
this time Bruce is struggling to keep up with state needs. He is booked out
through the end of January, and this is mostly just to support existing
systems, very little with the I-pad. Sherry Hahn and I have been discussing
ways to address for the upcoming 2012-2013 school year.
Digital/Distance Learning
MathSpeak
A
collaboration
between WSSB, CANnect, Perdue University, and GH LLC has resulted in the
acceptance and funding of a U.S. Department of Education, Phase 1, Stepping
Stones Grant. The MathSpeak: Hearing Math
Projects focuses on refining and validating the use of digital readers and
specifically the MathSpeak language to provide access to digital mathematics
textbooks to secondary students with visual impairments. As technology is becoming increasingly used
to support the education of students with visual impairments it is paramount to
understand if this technology is feasible, efficient, and effective. This
project’s focus on digital text and the MathSpeak language is especially
relevant given federal legislation supporting and encouraging such use in the
K-12 education of students with visual impairments. Yet, there is a lack of
literature exploring digital text to support students with visual impairments
in general, let alone the more complicated domains of STEM, such as
mathematics. The anticipated outcomes of this research project are to develop a
refined digital player that supports the MathSpeak language to provide access
to Algebra I text for students with visual impairments; and the development of
an online algebra course solely using an algebra text accessible via the
MathSpeak- supported digital player for students at the WSSB, local schools in
Washington, and across the country.
Beginning Programming Camp
To
help offset some expenses for our upcoming Beginning Programming Camp, I am
writing a grant proposal for funding from Access Computing. The Alliance for
Access to Computing Careers has funds available to support experiential
learning in the IT field. I think we should have a good chance at obtaining the
$5,000 proposal. Though the National Science Foundation grant that brings this
opportunity to campus gives us some funds, there are always areas that seem to
be shorted, so this money will ensure we can continue with this program.
North Carolina State University
I
have also submitted a letter of support to North Carolina State University as
they employing the development of the full page Braille display based on the
electroactive PVDF polymer technology. Way too over my head but I realize how
useful this would be. I am hoping that once again a collaboration or
partnership can be developed to support our students.
Beginning Braille Class
Our
Beginning Braille class is moving right along. We are supporting 5 video
conference sites across the state: Quincy, Vancouver, Olympia, Kennewick and
Bellingham, with a total of 17 participants. Catherine Golding, WSSB Outreach
TVI, is once again leading the way and each site has a BLUE certified mentor to
lend support and correct homework.
Microsoft
I
have mentioned that we are working with Microsoft LYNC software to provide
distance services. Robin Lowell teaches Math daily using LYNC. We also used it
this past summer and in programming class last spring. Robin’s husband Matt got
us into the LYNC offices in Redmond where we developed an interest with the
LYNC group – mainly the accessibility section. Once we had their attention we
invited them to campus and they came. Two software engineers spent a day at
WSSB recording and talking with Sean McCormick, WSSB TVI, about how LYNC
supported the programming class, checking out the campus and the work we do,
and then sitting through Robin’s math class. Robin’s students dazzled them with
their capabilities and how well the class is run. When class ended two of the
students refused to go to lunch; they wanted to talk and they were heard. We
then experimented with the ability to share their desktop with Robin and for
Robin to take over their computer. Amidst surprised giggling it was apparent
that this immediate exchange of information with their teacher could lead to
better exchange of information. We had to throw them out of the classroom when
the bell rang and they had to get to their next class. However I heard they
spread the news on how cool this was and how much they love their math class.
The
outcome of this will be that Microsoft will be highlighting our project
internally and share it amongst the whole campus. From there we hope it will be
highlighted off campus and maybe we will become a study case for Microsoft –
what this will bring we are not sure yet. One outcome is we are part of the
Alpha testing group for LYNC. Ed and I laughed at our first meeting as we
realized we were part of a group where everyone else had thousands of employees
but we had the accessibility knowledge. This gets us on the ground floor to be
heard when feature sets aren’t accessible or when we want to suggest features.
Trainings
Two
trainings are scheduled one on Intellitools: Advanced training by Cambium
Learning and VoiceOver for the Macintosh/iPad by Bruce. We have sent out 13
copies-first recording of the trainings by Texas School for the Blind, this one
on Accessing e-books. Next one will take place in
December.
On Campus
Budget reductions
With
the unknown state of the school budget, we have reduced spending to only the
most necessary purchases, books and materials needed to carry on with current
classes. We strive to continue to
improve the existing programs without cutting any further programs. The following reports show how students at
WSSB are continuing to show success and make an impact on their futures.
Preparing for College
The
week of October 24, 8 students took the ACT test over a period of 4 days. The
students attended an ACT study group weekly leading up to the test week. They
were able to study from ACT provided practice materials that were also in
Braille or auditory DVDs. Last year, some of those same students also took the
SAT. Those 4 students found the ACT much more accommodating, as the ACT allows
them to have triple time as opposed to double time. The ACT also allows testing over a two-week
period rather than 2 days. The students
had reported their fingers were going numb during the SAT and they were having
a difficult time deciphering the dots towards the end of their long days of
testing. Although the ACT is over 10
hours in length, the students can take one test at a time over several days.
Test results should be back within a month (submitted
by Kim Curry, Counselor).
Work Based Learning
Students
currently enrolled in the work based learning (WBL) program (i.e. Work
Experience) are obtaining skills through various jobs on and off campus.
Positive work learning experiences students are currently engaged in are
beneficial to both students and their work site. Students are responsible for
managing their time sheets and are held accountable for their work behavior. As
students increase their independence and provide greater contribution to their
work site, they are given a small raise to help reinforce positive
behavior.
Students
participating in WBL earn a small stipend check to help reinforce money
handling and personal banking skills. Many of the students enjoy the money
provided through the work programs, and it is an excellent reason for students
to use their Orientation and Mobility (O&M) skills to travel to the bank
and cash their work stipends.
There
are very exciting work opportunities always arising on and off campus. The WBL
program continues to grow with meaningful experiences that utilize and build
student skills providing opportunities, to develop their resumes and essential
employability skills. More students want work placement than jobs or scheduling
allows. Students are encouraged to practice good work skills and seek out
potential job opportunities through responsibilities in the cottages, helping
out with chores at home, and helping out neighbors or businesses in their home
community to learn responsibility and possibly earn a little money.
On
campus, students are involved in WBL programs at the Lion’s Den coffee shop,
Irwin education office, administration main office, health center, business
office, recycling center, dining room, coffee roasting, greenhouse, in
classrooms, and in the cottages. Off campus, students are involved in programs
at Neighbors Market, Divine Consign, Central Park Daycare, Habitat
for Humanity store, Village Pearl Bakery, and Nut-Tritious (submitted by Sean McCormick).
Transition Program 2011-2012
WSSB
transition students (students who are usually in their last year at WSSB) are
participating in a comprehensive educational program that integrates functional
skills, expanded core areas, and work experience through community based
routines.
Students
will incorporate the following in their weekly routine: Getting dressed, making
breakfast, reviewing daily and weekly schedules, exploring the community,
engaging in rec. and leisure throughout the community, money management skills,
career exploration and awareness, exploring personal interests, social
communication skills, obtaining work skills in the community, and time
management skills.
Student Council 2011-12
Student
Council elections were held October 18 with the help of automated voting
machine loaned to us by the Clark County Elections Board. Here are the results:
Re-elected
President, Dalton Williams (Cle Ellum)
Re-elected
Vice President, Cody Glenn (Battle Ground)
Secretary,
Chris Green (Spokane)
Re-elected
Treasurer, Abby Griffith (Ridgefield)
Member
at Large, Briana Clark (Vancouver)
Middle
School Rep, AT
Enrollment (students at WSSB as of
October 31, 2011):
Total: 65 (amended to 68 students as of 11/18/11)
Elementary: 7
Middle
School: 11
High
School: 40
LIFTT:
7
Expected
change during November: 2 middle school
students
Residential
students: 54 (of the 54 residential
students, 9 live locally)
Day
students: 11
Evaluations
and re-evaluations the first two months of the 2011-12 school year: 10
The Green Team
The
Green Team is a collaborative group of individuals from all areas of WSSB that
address areas of environmental concern within our school community according to
Washington Green Schools guidelines and standards.
Washington Green Schools is a program that supports the involvement of
students, teachers, administrators, classified staff, and any others that wish
to enhance the school by reducing our carbon footprint in the following areas:
waste and recycling, toxics and indoor air quality, water quality and
conservation, and outdoor air quality and transportation. Each area addressed
within a school year is considered a level, with a maximum level of 4. WSSB
completed level 1 last spring in the area of waste reduction and recycling.
The
project during the last school year was recycling milk cartons. Through the
lasting change eliminating recyclable milk cartons from the trash, there has
been a dramatic improvement to our recycling and waste reduction on campus. The
results of recycling milk cartons on campus decreases our volume of trash by
12% and diverts 4,500 gallons of milk cartons (uncrushed) from the landfill.
This decrease in volume allows our campus to consider reducing the number of
dumpsters on campus; therefore creating potential cost cutting
opportunities.
For
2011-12 school year, WSSB will continue to lower the
school’s carbon footprint by addressing water quality and conservation to
attain level 2 certification. The project is in the planning stages, data
collection and present levels are the first steps in this process (submitted by Sean McCormick and Karen
Mowry).
Powerlifting
Tryouts
for the WSSB Lions Powerlifting Team will be held in December on two
dates. The Head Coach is Judy
Koch-Smith, with two assistant coaches: last year’s fabulous Assistant Coach
and record keeper, Steve Lowry, and new WSSB teacher “JJ” Isaacson, who was our
amazing volunteer coach last season. JJ is a former competitive
Powerlifter. At one time she was ranked in the top 20 of women Powerlifters
in the nation. She held world and national records.
Our
new season will begin on January 4-March 14, 2012, with Washington or Oregon
competitions in the USAPL and/or WABDL federations during or at the conclusion
of our 10 week season.
Human Resources/Business Office
Operations
So far, we are getting off to a pretty good start this year. We have not had many incidents requiring HR assistance since the school year began and the few occurrences we have had are being addressed promptly. I am happy to report that all supervisors are doing an excellent job of performance monitoring and documenting issues as they arise. This has been very instrumental in risk mitigation and timely corrective action.
Training
Impending budget reductions are posing some issues in terms of scheduling and arranging for staff training. As our board is well aware, the trainings that are conducted during the school week incur considerable backfill costs. We are working very hard to find creative ways to cut back training costs but it has been difficult. We have been discussing the possibility of conducting trainings during school closures (i.e. winter and spring breaks). While this option eliminates the backfill costs, it does cause the agency to incur additional costs, as career-seasonal positions would typically be in “Leave Without Pay” status during these times of year. We are launching our SafeSchools.com online safety training a little later than usual this year. We delayed the implementation in order to wait for some additional valuable training that SafeSchools was scheduled to launch mid-November. These trainings should be up and running by December 1 at the latest.
Current
Recruitment
We are currently recruiting to fill several on-call positions in the Health Center, Education and Residential Departments. Several of our current on-call position incumbents have been unavailable, unresponsive or unable to perform the essential duties of the job. As a result, several personnel will be removed from the on-call lists during the month of November.
Business
Office
The business office personnel have been working very hard to keep with all of the operational transactions that keep our agency running. Despite the additional procedural steps required by Department of Enterprise Systems, we have been able to stay on top of workloads. As the holidays approach, I expect that a few of our business personnel will be taking some much needed vacation. This should not cause delays in processing as we will work out schedules to ensure for operation.
Residential
Students
and staff are keeping very busy with multiple activities each day. New staff
and students are doing very well.
Recreation
Tandem
cycling and golf are finished for the season. There is a photo class currently
going on. Winter sports will start after the first of the year.
Training
·
Sighted
staff have received training in the new Office 10
software. Visually impaired staff have rescheduled training to learn the new system with
JAWS screenreading software on November 18.
·
CPR/First
Aid: Many staff need
recertification, it is in process for scheduling, looking for the most cost
effective and least disruptive to student programs when scheduling.
·
Lifeguard: One Residential Life Counselor (RLC) is
getting re-certification training presently.
·
Safety
training – in process of planning Daily Living Skills, O&M training for RLC
staff that will also meet safety training requirements.
Substitutes
We
are very short on substitutes, and have had many absences recently. We are
doing a recruitment now to get a new list of subs.
Buildings and Grounds
Campus:
·
We
received word back from The U.S. Green Building Council on our LEED (Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design) application for the Kennedy gym. They have
asked for additional qualifying information for ten points. We have sixty days
to answer their questions. We must receive all ten points to achieve a silver
rating.
·
We
have signed a contract with an energy service contractor from Olympia and
expect to begin a formal audit of the energy systems now in use on campus. This
will allow them to submit a recommendation on where we can save utility costs.
·
The
swing set has been completed and the students, as well as daycare children are
using it on a regular basis. We had to modify it three different times due to
manufacturing designs that were not strong enough for some of our older
students.
·
We
have rebuilt the tire swing which had to be removed due to rotted support
posts. We will be reusing the main cross beam but replacing the supports with
steel poured in concrete.
·
Northwest
Natural Gas has reduced their cost per therm by 2.2%. This is attributed to a
currently large supply of natural gas.
·
The
state motor pool has announced a price increase in vehicle rental costs and a
restriction on the number of miles a car can travel without incurring
additional per mile charges. Travel distances are currently 750 miles and will
be reduced to 500 miles.
Superintendent
First
and foremost I want to take this time to congratulate Mr. Craig Meador, former
Principal and current Director of Outreach Services for receiving the national
Council of Schools for the Blind (COSB) – Director Leadership Award. It was great to be to be asked by my peers to
present this award to Craig at the annual meeting in Louisville, Kentucky.
Along with being recognized for his outstanding leadership, Craig is also
currently enrolled in the doctoral program in school administration through
Washington State University (WSU).
Before
I get into some of the budget reduction scenarios let me share with you some of
the good things happening at WSSB. We have a great staff at WSSB (statewide
services both on and off campus) that have been helping the school explore new
ways of doing business, stepping forward and being willing to go the extra mile
for students, and continually looking at how we can partner with organizations
and agencies that are interested in improving services for children who are
BVI. The successes we continue to see are amazing, especially during these
difficult times.
·
Outreach
Services continue to expand as long as we can find the best teachers (TVIs) for
the job. Growth rate of approximately
12% has occurred since the start of the school year and staff
continue to come up with new ideas and ways of continuing services that
have or would have been cut if we had only depended on state dollars.
·
On-Campus
enrollment is up 6% since the last board meeting with additional students on a
waiting list that we had to put in place in order to facilitate the time to
complete comprehensive evaluations that are needed in helping to make the best
decision for placement and/or program options that could be developed at the
local district level. Staff’s creative approach to serving a very diverse group
of students has been tremendous.
·
Distance/Digital
Learning: WSSB continues to work on online course development along with
development of additional online resources. The partnerships that are occurring
will help pave the way for statewide and national service delivery in the
future.
Highlighting just a few partners
·
Steppingstones
Grant – “Accessible Online Algebra” Purdue University, gh
Inc., CANnect, and WSSB. (OSERS Grant).
·
Microsoft
staff in the Lync Software areas - product that can be used for video
conferencing and online learning.
·
Computer
Programming – University of Southern Illinois, WSU, and WSSB – new programming
language for blind students. Dr. Andi Stefik just received the National
Innovation Award at the Oracle Conference in San Francisco this past October.
This summer instructors from Tennessee and Boston areas will be on campus
learning the new program, along with successful implementation this school year
in Texas, Indiana, and previously at WSSB.
·
State
of Oregon (Oregon Dept. of Education) - WSSB continues to explore new ways of
partnering between the two states.
·
Oregon/Washington
Lions: WSSB has been talking with a few people in Oregon and Washington to see
if we can get Lions in both states to become more involved in promoting and
sponsoring programs for BVI students from throughout the Pacific Northwest.
·
British
Columbia – beginning partnerships have started with B.C. This past summer a
student from B.C. attended the computer programming camp at WSSB and Outreach
has been working with Itinerants out of Nelson, B.C. to help meet the needs of
BVI students in the Colville area. WSSB has also been working with U of B.C. as
to potential practicum students placed at WSSB and hopeful approval by the
State Board on the recognition and approval for certification of the TVI and
potential O&M programs at the U of B.C.
Policy Change
·
State
Cell phones: For years WSSB has been
trying to see if there is a way to help the school get out of the cell phone
business and be able to pay employees a stipend for partial use of that
employee’s monthly cell phone bill. We
were pleased to find out a few state agencies have moved forward with this
process and therefore we will be proposing to do likewise. This should not only
result in savings for WSSB, but would also be a benefit for the employee that
at this time has to carry two phones.
This will be limited to only those employees that need a phone as part
of state business.
·
Motor
Pool – more changes look like they will be coming our way and we will keep you
posted. Hopefully, I will have more
information by the time of the board meeting.
Conferences/Conventions
·
America
Printing House for the Blind (APH)/COSB meetings were
held in Louisville in October. This was
a great chance to explore the development of additional partnerships and find
out how other states are handling some of the budgetary reduction issues, etc.
It was also a great time to provide additional input to APH as an Ex-Officio
Trustee regarding products that are needed in our part of the country. APH and COSB are two great resources for our
school and state.
·
NFB
of Washington State Convention (Vancouver, WA) October 21-22: It was great to have the convention in
Vancouver. Not only did I not have to
travel, but it also provided us an opportunity to open our campus to NFB
members to gather more information first-hand about the diversity of services
that are provided. Great convention with good speakers and once again a great
opportunity to network and explore new partnerships.
·
Washington
Council for the Blind (WCB) State Convention (Pasco, WA) November 4-6: Very good convention with a good selection of
speakers and once again a good opportunity to explore new partnerships. It was
great that Jim Kemp was able to stop by on Saturday to not only hear the
presentation from the three agency directors: Washington Talking Book and
Braille Library, Department of Services for the Blind, and WSSB, but also a
chance for Jim to meet a few of the consumer in our state.
Budget status:
Operating
Budget
·
Report
with information as of the end of September: $131,707 positive balance.
·
I
will have updated information by the time of our board meeting, which should
provide information with the close of books for October (data was not available
at the time of this report).
Capital
budget [all
WSSB projects are preservation projects]
·
We
have begun some work on capital projects that are tied to student safety:
o
Fencing/card
lock systems that will better control cross campus traffic of individuals.
o
We
have also begun the process that will guarantee we will be ready to move
forward with roofing replacement on the Irwin building this coming summer. We
have had to do some patching on Irwin to get us through this school year. The current roof has exceeded its life
expectancy. Estimated cost for
replacement: $350,000.
o
Additional
capital project work will be set in place between January, 2012 and May, 2013
in order for all approved projects to be completed.
Budget reduction plan
·
We
were pleased that the Governor’s office target for WSSB is at the 5% level. We
had planned for up to 10%, but at this level we definitely are impacting “Basic
Education” as defined by state law and the Doran Decision. Thanks to the many
partnerships, especially those that are bringing in out-of-state tuition, and
fees for facility usage, etc. We can
handle the 5% without a negative impact to children. (Please see the plans below that were sent to
OFM for up to a 10% reduction for the 2011-2012 and 2012-2013 fiscal years.)
·
WSSB
will also be negatively impacted by TSR leave for those employees that are
seasonal employees and work directly with students. These employees are not
able to utilize 5.2 hours of leave per month because they are working full time
with students and therefore this will need to be paid out once students are not
on campus. This resulted in approximately $30,000 of additional cost to the
agency that is not in the budget. WSSB is working this into our reduction plan
in order to meet this additional obligation.
Once
again, I want to compliment staff for going the extra mile in helping students
gain the skills necessary to be independent. These difficult budgetary times
can be very taxing on individuals, but I am proud of the professionalism shown
by WSSB staff.