WASHINGTON
STATE SCHOOL FOR THE BLIND
BOARD OF
TRUSTEES
Minutes from Board of
Trustees Meeting
September 16-17, 2011
Vancouver, Washington
Board Members Participating: Denise Colley, Sherry Perry, Yang-su Cho, Steve
Rainey, Chuck Nelson, Jim Kemp, Lorna Walsh, Ed Snook, Elaine Akagi, and John
Glenn.
Ex-Officio Members Participating: Berl Colley (Washington
Council of the Blind), Scott Hone (Washington Federation of State Employees
Local #1225), and Paul Baldwin (Teachers Assoc.).
Ex-Officio Members Absent: Mike Freeman (National Federation of
the Blind of Washington).
WSSB Staff Members Participating: Dr. Dean Stenehjem
(Superintendent), Jessica Sydnor (Human Resources Manager), Karen Mowry
(Director of On-Campus), Wayne Oshiro (Associate Principal), Lori Pulliam
(Director of Transition Services), Sherry Hahn (Digital Learning Coordinator),
Rob Tracey (Facilities Manager), and Janet Kurz (recording secretary).
September 16 – 7:00–9:00pm
Jim called the meeting to order at 7:00pm. Dr. Stenehjem introduced the two new Board of
Trustees members, Elaine Akagi and John Glenn.
Karen was introduced as the new Director of On-Campus Programs. Karen introduced Wayne Oshiro, Associate
Principal.
Department Updates:
Sherry Hahn, Digital Learning Coordinator:
o
Sherry reported she received notification from the National Science
Foundation (NSF) that they will not be funding the CANnect grant. The reasoning was that CANnect did not have a
strong enough background to manage the sizable budget. The CANnect Project Director
is working to resubmit the grant on October 1.
They are looking for a university to take over that function; however a
sizable administrative fee would be taken by a university (46-150%).
o
WSSB’s math class is going well.
Yang-su felt the 18 cell braille display that is used in math classes is
limited and is not easy to view lengthy formulas or equations. Sherry stated the American Printing House for
the Blind (APH) provides the 18-cell braille display through quota funds,
however WSSB will provide the larger braille display if the student needs
warranted it. Yang-su stated that the
Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) will provide braille displays for students
over age 15-16.
o
Steve asked if WSSB was using iPads and how they were working with
our blind and visually impaired (BVI) staff and students. Sherry said WSSB has the following Apple
products: a 27” display, Mac Pro’s, 27 iPads
(Outreach, Assistive Technology and IT).
In addition, Sean McCormick, WSSB Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI)
was issued an iPad over the summer to identify different applications relative
to BVI students.
o
Sherry stated the VoiceOver in Apple products works extremely well
(does not require JAWS). Dr. Stenehjem said the nice thing about VoiceOver is
that it is included in the product and does not need to be purchased separately
(saves $1000).
o
Berl inquired about the use of Dragon Dictate, i.e. concerns from
staff from students not having the ability to learn how to spell. Sherry said
WSSB staff were keeping this in mind with their lessons.
Karen Mowry, Director of On-Campus:
o
Karen feels there is a positive energy at WSSB and we are off to a
good start of the school year.
o
Jim asked who reports the Washington Assessment of Student
Learning (WASL) test results as he did not see WSSB’s results on their
website. Dr. Stenehjem stated if there
are less than 10 students per class that if posted it could be in violation of FERPA
to report this data (meaning due to the small numbers there would be breach in
confidentiality). WSSB’s School
Psychologist, Michele Wollert compiled the test results and WSSB has shown
great improvements over the years.
o
Sherry asked if enrollment is low.
Karen stated that WSSB started the year with 66 students and she anticipates
having 4-5 more students before the end of the semester. Chuck asked how many students are from
Oregon. Karen stated three; two that we
know will be at WSSB throughout the year and one that is in an evaluation
status at this time.
Jessica Sydnor, Human Resources:
o
Steve asked about the amount of new staff compared to previous
years. Jess stated that due to
reorganization (primarily in Residential), it opened up positions. Dr. Stenehjem stated that biggest growth has
been in the area of Outreach.
o
Sherry asked if Jake Koch completed his two-year degree at Clark
Community College. Jake has taken a
temporary position in the Learning Independence for Today and Tomorrow Program
(LIFTT) this year and has completed his studies at Clark.
Rob Tracey, Facilities Manager:
o
Rob reported that Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) is a requirement by the state that any building built that cost
over $1,000,000 must apply for this certification. There are sections and
subsections regarding energy savings, building design, soil and sight
preservation and they have points assigned to each section. WSSB has been
working on this for over three years; delays were due to changes in staff
through the architect firm, construction/contractor, Dept. of General Administration,
etc. Dr. Stenehjem was able to facilitate additional help to keep the process
going forward. WSSB submitted the application September 14 and is hoping to
obtain gold status. This is now a 30-45 day waiting process and they may
request additional information.
o
Dr. Stenehjem stated that Rob has done an outstanding job as has
the custodial department. Dr. Stenehjem
stated over 500 people were on campus over the summer for programs, etc. which
was challenging to meet the needs of all groups. Staff did an outstanding job.
o
Rob reported that new furniture was purchased for the third floor
LIFTT program through Correctional Industries.
o
Ed commented that the new campus signage looks great. WSSB is pleased to get the signage in place,
which had been value engineered out of projects over the past 7 years.
Lori Pulliam, Director of Transition Services:
o
Lori stated said she is very well versed in LIFTT however she is
brand new in the Residential Department.
Lori is busy familiarizing herself with programs and processes.
o
Chuck asked what Skyward is. Paul said it is a computer software
program that identifies student grades, attendance, etc. One of Lori’s goals
this year is to provide equal access in the cottages for braille materials as
well as computer programs, etc. Dr.
Stenehjem stated that most school districts utilize this software program.
o
Steve asked how many students were in the LIFTT program. Lori reported there were 8 this year; this can
create space issues in the common area that students use for laundry, cooking,
living space, etc.
Craig Meador, Director of Outreach (report given by Dr. Stenehjem):
o
Dr. Stenehjem stated that Craig is out of town; Craig is very
excited about his new role.
o
Dr. Stenehjem reported that contracts for Outreach have grown by 12%
this year.
o
Craig was in Colville on Tuesday and was going to Spokane and
Pullman this week. The demand from school districts for services continues to
increase.
o
Steve asked if Dr. Stenehjem could review how Outreach began. Dr.
Stenehjem said Outreach began in 1980 with intermittent visits of WSSB staff to
local districts. Dee Amundsen, former
Director of Outreach was the first contracted Outreach TVI in 1990. Dr. Stenehjem said in 1990, 1% or less of the
operating budget for the school was under private/local funds (contracts,
grants, etc.). Dr. Stenehjem said right
now approximately 30% of the budget is contracted services, rentals, grants, and
donations. Dr. Stenehjem stated 1/5 of
the school districts in the state contract with WSSB for TVI and Orientation &
Mobility (O&M) services. The Ogden
Resource Center produces braille services including high stakes testing for the
state of Washington and also has contracts with Georgia and California for high
stakes testing and transcription to name just a few. All of these services are Outreach related.
o
Steve asked if there is a waiting list for Outreach. Dr. Stenehjem
last year, according to information obtained from Dr. James Bickford, PSU
Professor, only 277 new TVI’s graduated from programs nationwide and there were
750 listings for vacancies. Steve asked
if there were more TVI’s, would WSSB contract for more services. Dr. Stenehjem said yes, there are districts
that don’t have people to fill positions.
o
Yang-su noticed that WSSB has hired new teachers for the Outreach
program that haven’t received their TVI endorsement yet. Yang-su has met classroom teachers who may be
interested in being a TVI. Dr. Stenehjem
said WSSB has a couple of people who are going through their program, and WSSB
is mentoring them. These individuals are certificated teachers that are
completing their TVI training. Paul
stated the other piece is with the Portland State University (PSU) program, students
do their practicum in Washington so WSSB has the opportunity to work with
them. Steve suggested teachers who may
be interested in a TVI career to talk to Dr. Stenehjem. Due to the shortage of
TVIs, if you don’t make a commitment approximately one year in advance, you
will not be able to find a qualified TVI.
o
John Glenn said as part of the grassroots TVI certification group
he is involved in, members of this group plan to visit local Universities and
Colleges to help create student awareness of the TVI career possibilities. The group is working on creating a PowerPoint
program to provide awareness for this field.
Business Meeting:
Old Business:
o
Approval of Minutes for June 10, 2011 Board of Trustees
Meeting. Ed moved to approve the
minutes, Steve Rainey seconded the motion.
The minutes passed unanimously.
o
Committees (assignments):
¨ Education Committee: Dr. Stenehjem stated he would like to see
more involvement in this committee from the Education and Outreach managers. John asked how the meetings are held. Dr. Stenehjem stated they are through conference
calls, etc. Dr. Stenehjem will meet with
Craig, Karen and Paul to discuss goals for this school year.
·
Chair: Paul Baldwin. Committee Members: Elaine Akagi and John Glenn.
¨ Buildings and Grounds
Committee: One of the major functions
required through the RCW is the annual facility inspection, noting items or
issues the campus has that need attention, items to look to the future for
projects (i.e. re-roofing, etc.) Also,
if there are areas that are potentially hazardous and need fixed.
·
Chair: Sherry Perry. Committee Members: Berl Colley and Steve Rainey.
¨ Management Committee: This committee submits the Superintendent’s
evaluation to the Governor’s office annually.
·
Chair: Jim Kemp. Committee Members: Steve Rainey and Ed Snook.
¨ Legislative Committee:
Dr. Stenehjem feels this year that
legislation regarding the Department of Education will be re-introduced. This would be one area of focus.
·
Chair: Lorna Walsh.
Committee Members: Berl Colley, Yang-su Cho, and Mike Freeman.
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Stenehjem reported the following:
Dr. Stenehjem, John Glenn and Craig Meador met in British Columbia
(BC) with 40 TVI’s/O&M’s and administrative staff who work for the ministry
of education. This resulted in a student from BC enrolling in WSSB’s Computer
Programming Camp. This has also resulted in a connection with Colville, WA,
which we were made aware of through TVI/O&M personnel out of Nelson,
B.C. Dr. Stenehjem feels a lot of good things can
come from building this partnership.
John stated BC formed a committee to work on communication with the
state of Washington.
Ed commented on the quality of WSSB’s 125th Anniversary
Banquet. Ed stated the entertainment for
the event was phenomenal. Jim Kemp, Ed Snook, Sherry Perry and Steve Rainey represented
the Board.
Ed asked if there was any prospect for additional Oregon state
students. WSSB has two students from Oregon and one that is in an evaluation
status. Dr. Stenehjem will be meeting
with Oregon’s Department of Education in mid-October to talk about how things
are going and hopefully to look at additional partnership opportunities. Oregon has written in their state plan, WSSB as
the component for their full continuum of services, for Oregon students who are
blind/visually impaired. Lori has also mentioned that three Oregon students are
slotted for attendance for the 2012-2013 school year for the LIFTT
Program.
Sherry asked if there was a plan to have a separate residence for
LIFTT. Dr. Stenehjem submitted a capital
project request for this. It has not
been funded and is still in our 10 year plan.
John asked if there was an influx of students how would that
impact WSSB’s budget. Dr. Stenehjem said
WSSB does not receive funding on a per student basis like school districts. Dr. Stenehjem feels WSSB is funded at about 62
students; though WSSB seldom has 62 and are more than likely to have an
enrollment of 67-72.
Dr. Stenehjem would like to get out of the student transportation
business; WSSB and the school for the Deaf pay for transportation directly out
of their budget, unlike school districts who receive funding from the state
Transportation Allocation Fund. This would allow for the changes in number of
students being transported and hopefully day student transportation could be
handled directly through the ESD who handles all inter-district transfers of
special education students; weekend transportation would be more complicated.
Discussion was held regarding multi-handicapped enrollment. Paul
felt WSSB currently has a 50% multi-handicapped student population. This does change from year to year.
Dr. Stenehjem presented a plaque of appreciation for Chuck Nelson
for his 10 plus years of service.
September 17 – 8:00am–12:00pm
Jim called the meeting to order at
8:00am.
Facility Tour
Dr. Stenehjem provided the Board of
Trustees a facility tour.
Superintendent’s
Report (continued)
WSSB’s Business Office functions were transferred to Small Agency
Client Services (SACS) in January, 2011 as per an Olympia mandate.
Last year, WSSB was informed we had to expend the remaining
balance in private/local funds ($200,000). Previously, WSSB utilized these
funds for starting/building programs, hiring TVI’s for Outreach, etc. Losing this flexibility is and will be
detrimental in starting self-sustaining services.
WSSB was informed that there were additional funds available to
expend before the end of the fiscal year.
Therefore, WSSB created an end of the year spending plan which included
purchases of a large amount of technology, curricular materials, etc that would
be needed over the next two years. However, Dr. Stenehjem was concerned that
the numbers being provided were not accurate and was concerned that WSSB may
over spend. Two days before the close of our fiscal books, WSSB was informed
that we had over spent by $65,000. To remedy this situation, Dr. Stenehjem made
4-5 strategic moves (reversed charges that were made for capital projects from
operating funds) so the books balanced. The end result is that $67,441 is now
being carried forward for capital (rather than a hopeful $188,000). WSSB’s balance at the end of the biennium was
$1,394. This was the first time that
WSSB has ever been in this type of situation at the end of a fiscal year.
Steve asked there is any support from Olympia regarding our
concerns with SACS. Dr. Stenehjem stated
that because WSSB operates very differently, it creates issues, such as payroll
(two unions, different shifts, teachers on 180-day contracts, and just plain being
a school and state agency).
Dr. Stenehjem stated WSSB saved approximately $60,000 when moving
operations to SACS, but does not believe we gained in efficiencies. Part of the problem may be that SACS is
over-loaded, we don’t know SACS that well yet and they us, etc. WSSB is trying to make things work because
this is what we have, but we are frustrated. SACS has great people, but we are
feeling they have been given an impossible task. In a number of situations this partnership has
also resulted in more time needed by staff at WSSB to complete a process then
if we just did the function ourselves. This does complicate things when moving
to SACS resulted in the loss of three people in the business office.
WSSB has an annual budget of $5.7 million General Fund Dollars
that are appropriated by the legislature. In addition WSSB has been given
authorization to expend additional funds up to $969,500 if we can find these
private local funds. At this time we
anticipate throughout this next year to bring in the funds listed below. Some
of these are what is called private enterprise funds, unanticipated receipts,
which are the last minute dollars that WSSB is not sure about and still could
change, and recovery of funds to cover costs.
o
$300,000 in OSPI grants for the Instructional Resource Center
(IRC) - this presents a slight increase in the grant that cover IRC costs (cost
recovery).
o
$42,000 in IDEA grants (can carry forward $43,000 from IDEA grants
because approval was not garnered until April).
Grant from OSPI (cost recovery)
o
$30,000 reimbursement from Medicaid – helps pay for our mental
health counselor.
o
$145,000 from facility user groups – recovery of cost for
facilities from outside user groups (approx. 50,000 users per year; helps cover
utilities and some custodial and maintenance time.
o
$706,000 contracts from school districts – this number may grow to
about $750,000 based upon anticipated contracts. WSSB has also added three TVIs this year to
meet the contractual needs.
o
$145,000 from Oregon students.
This could grow slightly, dependent on the result of a current Oregon
student in evaluation status to determine most appropriate placement.
·
The total is $1.7 million in addition to the $5.7 million
allocated from the state. Dr. Stenehjem
feels WSSB has $7.4 million in our budget if all is added together.
o
Ed asked if the state monitors WSSB’s private/local funds and do
they include those funds in the next budget cycle and can therefore reduce the
agency’s allotment. Dr. Stenehjem stated
they have not yet. The private local
funds that come into the program in most cases are designated to pay for those
services that generate the funds to sustain programs through these funds.
Private local funds are usually self-sustaining, which in our situation have
somewhat protected these important services from reductions in state funding.
Dr. Stenehjem stated right now WSSB anticipates receiving $145,000
from the state of Oregon for student enrollment, however it looks like that may
be in the range of $200,000-$211,000 due to a student that is in evaluation status.
SACS stated WSSB is under-spent by about $100,000 since July 1
(for the current biennium). Dr.
Stenehjem is uncomfortable with this number since we have not had a fiscal
report since the beginning of the new fiscal year.
Payroll is handled through SACS and it currently takes WSSB twice
the amount of time to process the paperwork primarily due to SACS unfamiliarity
with our agency, copying of documents, etc.
Lorna asked if the payroll issues have resulted in getting paid on
time. Dr. Stenehjem said no.
Business Meeting:
New Business:
o
Budget reduction plan for review by Board of Trustees.
§
The budget reduction plan is based upon general state funds
only. Dr. Stenehjem handed out copies of
the draft budget reduction plan that was shared with staff on September
14. Dr. Stenehjem mentioned to OFM in Olympia
that WSSB should be exempt from reductions under Basic Education as stated in
the memo requesting the 5 and 10% reduction plans, which stated that “Basic
Education” is one of the exceptions.
§
The revenue forecast was reported last Thursday and it was stated
that ‘across the board’ budget cuts will not be done.
§
Dr. Stenehjem feels that many items in the 5% reduction plan could
be bought back with private/local funds if WSSB has solid budgetary
information, but is very nervous about our allotment process.
§
Dr. Stenehjem also stated WSSB could request emergency fund
requests for the two proposed teacher aide position eliminations through Safety
Net funds tied to Individualized Education Plans (IEP) for high needs students. However, this would be losing funds in our
budget and then requesting these funds through OSPI, where there is no
guarantee that the funds would be received.
§
Dr. Stenehjem then reviewed the 10% plan ($1,153,000).
§
John asked if WSSB eliminates the elementary program, could WSSB just
not accept students in grades 3-5. Dr. Stenehjem said yes, but might run into
situations that could lead to due process hearings, based upon appropriate
placement decisions. Also, he feels that
we would have an uprising from parents that currently have children in this
program. The elimination of this
program would not be a good choice, but we have just run out of options. Ed stated the legal issue becomes can a
district meet the students basic education needs or does WSSB do this?
§
OFM has stated school districts are exempt from budget reductions.
Ed asked when WSSB will have more information.
Dr. Stenehjem and the school for the Deaf have a meeting with OFM on
September 28. Dr. Stenehjem is hoping
that he is told the two schools are exempt.
Dr. Stenehjem feels that the 24-hour IEP is crucial in the education of students
who come to WSSB; evening and after school programs are critical. Lorna asked if writing the IEP in this manner
assists WSSB in applying for Safety Net funds.
Dr. Stenehjem stated yes. For
blind children Expanded CORE (all the Blindness related skill development),
much of what can be achieved in a natural setting before and after school has
proven to make huge difference for blind students in a relatively short period
of time.
§
John asked if there was potential for a commission to review the
need to have a school for the Blind. Dr.
Stenehjem said it is possible, but parents, legislators, staff in Olympia all
view WSSB very positively. In addition,
WSSB has two very strong blind consumer groups who are advocates for WSSB and
we do have very good outcome data demonstrating the efficacy of the on-campus
program.
§
Dr. Stenehjem reiterated the importance of collecting data to support
the success of students when they come in to WSSB, post graduate surveys,
etc.
§
Lorna asked if there is anything the legislative committee can be
doing now. Dr. Stenehjem said that he
will have more information after the September 28 meeting with OFM. Lorna offered to assist in any way
possible.
§
Paul stated that with last year’s budget reduction, losing the
Preschool program, which resulted in losing a teacher’s aide and teacher and with
the multi-handicapped students entering WSSB, it has been a case of staff
holding their heads above water.
§
Dr. Stenehjem stated one of the concerns that came up at a meeting
in Olympia is the many fees that agencies are required to pay other agencies
(e.g. fees to DOP, G.A, OFM, DIS, A.G., etc.).
Requests have been made that these agencies also look at reducing the
fees passed on to other agencies.
Ex-Officio’s Reports
Washington Council of
the Blind (WCB) – Berl Colley:
o
Berl and Denise attended and spoke at a conference in Daytona
Beach, Florida last summer.
o
The WCB National Convention was July 7-15 in Reno, Nevada. The WCB sponsored Dr. Stenehjem to speak at
the workshop regarding schools for the blind and the room was full. Denise said it made her proud that she lived
in Washington. Berl stated guests attending
were from Germany and Brazil. This was
the 50th anniversary conference.
o
The WCB held a board meeting in Everett at the end of July.
o
The WCB will hold its state convention in Pasco November 3-5. This will be Denise’s first convention as
chapter President.
o
Berl is now the WSSB Alumni President.
Teachers – Paul
Baldwin:
o
The teachers are very excited about working with Karen and Wayne. Paul commented that both Karen and Wayne have
been doing a fantastic job in jumping in to help out where needed. Karen is
very responsive and flexible to teachers needs with new students.
Change in WSSB’s Structure
Dr. Stenehjem asked for discussion regarding WSSB’s current and potential
governance structure. Dr. Stenehjem
threw out the idea regarding WSSB being a private/non-profit that received
state funding at a meeting with OFM last year.
Dr. Stenehjem asked the administrative team members for their thoughts
regarding different options.
Dr. Stenehjem discussed different structures that are in place across the
nation.
Berl proposed putting
together a committee to study options that would serve children in Washington,
Oregon, Idaho, British Columbia, Alaska, Nevada, etc. Berl stated the NFB or WCB would not support
a combination deaf and blind school.
Steve feels being a
small agency has been great, in regards to capital improvements, Dr.
Stenehjem’s ability to develop relationships with Olympia, however now it feels
as if WSSB is being penalized for being a small agency. Ed feels that having the
Governor’s office responsible for direct supervision over WSSB is beneficial and
if we lose this ability, it could have the potential of damaging WSSB.
Berl stated under the
Department of Education proposal, as he understood it, Dr. Stenehjem’s position
would have been the fourth level down, with everything going up-line for
approval.
Ed stated it would
appear to him that the larger footprint has been a wonderful thing for WSSB,
not only for the school but across the country.
Ed stated the hazard is that the legislature can come along in a tough
economic climate and make changes in the operations and feels that WSSB has to
expand our residential strength on campus at the same time.
Several years ago, a
legislator questioned the need for WSSB and had a study done through the
Washington State Institute of Public Policy.
During this study OSPI reported that it cost $12,000 to educate a BVI
student at a district; WSSB calculated a cost of $47,000 per year. WSSB did its own study and requested districts
to share their cost for educating a blind child learning braille against a
blind child learning braille at WSSB. The results, from a 22% return from
districts, showed that it cost districts $49,000-$79,000 per year for a
six-hour education day. Therefore, when
comparing like students, the actual cost at WSSB are less than in the local
district. John felt when he first
started this TVI career in 1989, the big swing was that all kids be in local
schools; John views WSSB a necessary piece of the continuum. John has students
that need to be in residential programs as they cannot provide in the local
school district what can be provided at WSSB.
Dr. Stenehjem said
that a lot of positive things that occur for students is due to their peer
interaction and the ability of WSSB staff who are all trained TVI’s plus
trained in their specific discipline (i.e. math, science, etc.) to meet both
the educational and specialized needs including social and emotional for all
students. Dr. Stenehjem stated confidence and self-esteem based programs,
fitness, Goalball, Powerlifting, etc. are a huge part of student success at
WSSB.
Steve stated an
observation, best way to improve service model is to expand footprint, if WSSB
is under OSPI, it would greatly diminish the ability to do this, i.e. improve
facilities and programs, etc. Steve
asked how tough it would be to get capital projects. Dr. Stenehjem stated that OSPI’s capital
project process is geared toward local school districts, which is very
different than dealing with a state facility.
Ed asked if the
Department of Education proposal in legislation died in both houses. Dr.
Stenehjem said as far as he knows the legislation is still alive. Ed said it
sounded like it did not garner support from both the House and Senate. Berl stated higher ed. was pulled out of the
proposal. Denise stated there was enough
opposition that it died. Ed asked if the
Governor was proposing this on a budgetary basis versus policy. Dr. Stenehjem felt it was more of a policy
than budgetary basis. This was proposed
to provide a seamless system from birth through 20+.
Discussion was held
regarding the possibility of WSSB being under the Department of Education or
OSPI. If WSSB was viewed as an LEA or ESD, WSSB may have more control, like a
school district, however the unknowns would be capital projects. The advantage would be the board would have
more control over what the school does, such as in a school district. This may also assist the school in garnering
more protection under the “Basic Education Act”.
Dr. Stenehjem feels
WSSB operates more like an ESD, but the core of the service delivery is the
on-campus program. Example: Dr. Stenehjem stated that Paul is the only
science teacher in the state who is also a TVI, so he is known as the expert in
that area and is a resource/consultant for all districts. This is true with math, music, physical
education, etc. The on-campus program not only meets the needs of those
students on campus, but also helps all TVIs in the state in doing a better job
with their students. This would not happen without hands on practicing
consultants as mentioned above.
Lorna asked if WSSB could
be categorized like a University with an extension service; all students who
are blind and districts currently have some connection to WSSB. WSSB would not be sure how an affiliation
with a university or under a university would work. Probably most important is
keeping the tie to the “Basic Education Act” for the protection of services to BVI
children. The question was also asked if
the school became a private/public non-profit would employees be able to stay
on the state benefit system. Dr. Stenehjem said this would be an unknown, but
in some states has been possible.
John asked if ESD’s
are under OSPI. Dr. Stenehjem said they
are, but they have a separate board comprised of representatives from school
districts. John stated a lot of services WSSB provides are similar to services
provided by ESD’s. Dr. Stenehjem said
the IRC, BAC, Outreach Department, and training, would all be similar to ESD
structures. Dr. Stenehjem feels the
reason WSSB has a strong Outreach program is that WSSB has a strong on-campus
program. The on-campus program would be
the difference between an ESD and WSSB.
Dr. Stenehjem stated
there are advantages to regionalization and the Governor’s office is very
interested in this concept. If the regional concept went forward, WSSB would
need a commitment from different states for slots for students so WSSB could
plan staffing, budgets, etc.
Dr. Stenehjem stated
there is a lot of interest in expanding Distance/Digital Learning from the ESD
112. The distance learning model works
great for some students and not so well for others. WSSB biggest issue at this time is developing
the technology/software and curriculum to help students through online
learning. This can happen, but is very difficult when funding is constantly
reduced and you cannot count on dollars to help develop services. At this time,
most of our development work has been through private local funds, not state
appropriated dollars.
Dr. Stenehjem said he
would like to bring in other people to discuss different structures and will include
the board, someone from the ESD in the Vancouver region, get input, ideas,
concepts, to bring ideas back to another board meeting.
Steve said discussion
was held briefly regarding the structure of a private-non profit and he feels
the issue would be the endowment. Dr. Stenehjem stated fundraising is not easy. Dr. Stenehjem said the biggest obstacle is
perception from donors that they should not give funds to a Foundation because
the WSSB is state funded. Lorna said that is a messaging issue.
Berl reiterated his
suggestion regarding getting a committee together that could give Dr. Stenehjem
ongoing advice on where the WSSB should be in 10-15 years. Lorna felt it would be good to have the
information and background if and when this became an issue.
Miscellaneous
§
Jim asked if the Board was interested in having a Thursday/Friday
meeting so they can see the classrooms and operations. Discussion was held regarding moving the
meeting to November 17-18. Steve moved
that the meeting in November be moved to 17-18, John seconded the motion. The motion was passed unanimously.
§
Dr. Stenehjem spoke to Karen regarding the need to have a current
Parent Representative on the Board. John
asked if it has to be a parent of a student who attends WSSB. Dr. Stenehjem said no.
§
Dr. Stenehjem was named Distinguished Educator of the Year for
2011 by the NFB.
§
Craig Meador, Director of Outreach was named Principal of the Year
by the Council of Schools for the Blind and will be receiving his award in
October.
§
Janet Kurz was named Combined Fund Drive Leader of the year for
the State of Washington.
§
Sherry Hahn received an award from the Association for Education
and Rehabilitation as outstanding Service Provider of the year.
§
Berl is now President of the WSSB alumni association, Dan Tolva is
Vice President, Shirley Kinnison is the Treasurer, and Greg Jack is the
Treasurer. The association is meeting
monthly, in person quarterly, a newsletter will be produced three times per
year, and they will be undertaking projects. The new name will be Washington
State School for the Blind Alumni Association.
The WSSB Alumni Association wants to work with the Oregon School for the
Blind Alumni Association to hold joint reunions, etc.
§
Dr. Stenehjem stated the Washington School for the Blind
Foundation has officially changed their name to the Pacific Foundation for
Blind Children.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
Dr. Stenehjem called an Executive Session.
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 12:00pm. The next Board meeting will be held on WSSB’s
campus November 17-18, 2011.
James Kemp, Chair Dean
O. Stenehjem, Ed.D.
Superintendent
Board Reports - September
2011
It has
been a steep learning curve for me as I stepped into the role of the Director
of Outreach but thanks to the kindness of the team the transition has been
smooth. We have begun the year with a few changes. The obvious is that Dee has moved back into a
teacher role and is now serving the Longview School District. Last spring we
hired three new teachers: Pam Parker, Carrie Tanner and Emily Coleman.
·
Pam
Parker is a veteran teacher and Orientation and Mobility (O&M)
specialist. She comes to us from Walla
Walla and provides us with experience and support for our growing program.
·
Carrie
is a second year Portland State University (PSU) vision student and served WSSB
in the residential department for several years. Emily is also a second year
PSU student, who recently moved from Montana.
·
During
the course of the summer we learned that long time teacher Annie Stockton was
taking a position with the Lewis County Co-op. We hired Liz Asher, another
second year PSU student to pick up several of Annie districts.
·
We
have also added Teri Phillips, long-time Irwin Teaching Assistant to the
Outreach program.
So what does all this mean?
Growth!
For
Southwest WA: We have expanded services
to now include Longview and needs in the Vancouver and Evergreen Districts have
grown (we have several additional inquiries; contracts pending with Onalaska
for O&M).
Northwest
WA: We are now serving Tahoma (Maple
Valley) and this is new territory for us.
We had several inquiries from districts looking for services
(Northshore, Issaquah, Granite Falls, and Puyallup).
For
Northeast WA: We are now serving the
following districts in the Spokane region:
Deer Park, Medical Lake, Rearden, St. John, and are in discussions with
Cheney, Colville and East Valley.
Extent of Resources
Currently
we are at 75% full for services. This is
somewhat deceptive because if you remove Spokane from the equation we are a
closer to 83% capacity. I believe that
the Spokane position will fill quickly as the year moves along and I anticipate
that contracts will double by January.
Digital/Distance
Learning
Still no
news from the National Science Foundation (NSF) concerning our grant
application for the online Algebra class. I know that this is not unusual and
it is just a waiting game until we get our notification, so I am trying to be
patient as good things are worth the wait.
Our
summer testing of using iTouches and iPads for an O&M lesson worked out and
Joe Dlugo (WSSB Outreach) has selected a couple of students in his area to
continue our research as to how well this technology supports our student’s
needs. In Joe’s words:
The distance O&M test program involving iPad/iPod
Touch and FaceTime software was very encouraging. The intent of this instructional approach is
to see if available technology can assist in efforts to provide services to
students in underserved areas and to provide O&M instructors with another
avenue of service delivery.
Tested in
simulated situations, this concept is showing promise. Working with another
certified O&M specialist and WSSB IT staff, we were able to confirm the
technology is indeed capable of bringing satisfactory performance to provide
what we need to connect with a remote site student, stream real time video of
sufficient quality to see the student's performance, and communicate through
voice. Challenges included fluctuating
levels of Wi-Fi signal, and how to best structure communication between the
instructor, student, and assistant to optimize the experience. The next step is
to field test this concept in a non-simulated situation, bringing the
technology to a real student.
Pat
Wilber, likewise, felt that her work giving Braille instruction via the web was
useful and is hoping to continue to provide services during the school year.
Pat was able to connect using Microsoft Lync right into the student’s home.
With the aid of a camera Pat could observe the student, and by using desktop
sharing she could observe the student writing in Braille and make corrections
immediately as necessary. The student increased his fluency in reading by
recording himself on a BookPort and that file could be emailed to the teacher.
We are hoping to contract services to continue supporting this student as well
as expanding this type of services to other children.
Ed
Lukowski (WSSB IT staff) and I set up our math classroom for the teacher in the
box (Robin Lowell). As you walk into the classroom you will notice that each
student has a computer to work on. As Robin logs in, her smiling face appears
at the front of the classroom as well as on each students computer monitor.
Using Microsoft Lync Robin can do desktop sharing and work with a student one
on one. For our blind students we have installed Perky Duck, a free program
that allows a student to do direct Braille input and that file that can then be
emailed to Robin for correcting. Students have 18-cell braille displays to
enter the Nemeth code. We have also included a document camera both in Robin’s
house and in the classroom. Robin places a small white board under it and can
write and work through math problems with a visually impaired (VI) student,
both capable of seeing the work as it happens. Also, a VI student can place
their work under the document camera for Robin to view and a snap shot can be
taken creating a file that can immediately be sent to Robin for grading. We
also found out that embossed braille is also readable under the document
camera. There is a lot of technology going on in this room and the learning
should be enhanced as well as a lot of fun.
Ed
installed a large number of computers this summer, replacing those that have
reached the end of life for campus use. The older computers will be sent back
to the State and put back into use through the ‘Computer 4 Kids’ program. He
also updated everything to Microsoft Office 2010. At the start of school we
hosted short trainings and gave out video links to help staff get comfortable
with the new software. We have 17 students that have brought in either their
own computers or personal devices such as the iPad. That is almost 25% of our
students now bringing in their own computing devices, quite a change from 0%
when I started in 2006. Having expanded our wireless to the cottage has been a
contributing factor and I think it helps create their own independence being
responsible for their own equipment.
That’s
about it for a summer update – it sure went by quickly.
On Campus
The
school year is off to a year of change and growth with new people and old
people in new places. We have had
changes in supervision and duties.
Retirement:
·
Jeanie
Stolle, Speech Pathologist for 34 years
Leaving Service:
·
Renee
Corso, Associate Principal over Evening Programs
·
Shelly
Brown, Preschool teacher and O&M
·
Lief
Lackey, Life skills math and language arts classes
Changes:
·
Karen
Mowry became Principal to replace Craig Meador who moved to Director of
Outreach.
·
Kim
Curry, Counselor, became a full-time employee.
We welcome Kim as she has helped our students significantly over the
past 5 years.
·
Teri
Phillips, Teacher Aide, has moved to Outreach.
New Employees:
·
Wayne
Oshiro was chosen as the new Associate Principal. He comes to us from Oregon’s Lane Regional
Program where he worked as a TVI and O&M instructor. Prior to his work in
Eugene, he was the Director of Education at the Oregon School for the Blind the
year it closed. Wayne brings expertise
and new insights for the programs. He and Karen will be supporting the two
O&M instructors in some lessons with students as the student need is
greater than the number of hours available.
·
Jeanette
(JJ) Isaacson: Math and English
teacher. She is in the PSU TVI program
in her second year. She has worked at Clark College and Portland Community
College as a math instructor for students in remedial math classes. JJ also has
a talent for woodworking and would love to have some enrichment classes or
incorporate her talents into her math classes.
·
Jean
Vellmor: Speech Pathologist on contract 12 hours per week through ESD 112. This may need to be increased if the need
increases with new students and new IEP’s.
·
Rahel
Tefera: Has been a temporary
paraprofessional for several years and will be a permanent employee this year.
·
Recruitment
is starting for a paraprofessional to replace a paraprofessional who has
transferred to the Outreach department.
State Testing at
WSSB
Michele
Wollert, School Psychologist reports on WSSB participation in state testing:
·
The
Washington Assessment of Student Learning (WASL), used to assess student
progress statewide from 1997 was replaced in 2010 with the Measurement of
Student Progress (MSP) in grades 3-8 and the High School Proficiency Exam
(HSPE) for grades 10-12. End of Course (EOC)
exams were initiated in 2011 for students taking Algebra 1 and geometry and
science (http://www.k12.wa.us/resources/pubdocs/StateTesting.pdf).
·
Providing
fair and accessible testing to our low vision and blind students at WSSB has
been a major challenge over the years, but slow and steady progress has been
evident in a gradual increase in the number of students who have met state
standards in Reading, Writing, Math, and Science.
·
We
are committed to working with the Office of the Superintendent of Public
Instruction (OSPI) and Educational Testing Service (the current test developer
for Washington) to promote equal access to state testing for all our students.
We have sent a team of teachers and administrators to Olympia on three separate
occasions to preview proposed test items and to evaluate for visual bias.
Because many BVI students have not had access to appropriate instruction and
materials in the highly visual areas of math and science, our teachers in these
subjects have participated in phone conferences with the testing and measurement
team from ETS in New Jersey to fine tune test items and tactile graphics and to
discuss specific accommodations that are essential for equal access.
Additionally, the school psychologist has traveled throughout the state,
consulting and providing training to TVIs and other educators on how to
document and provide appropriate testing accommodations.
·
As
a result of our advocacy and a sincere desire on the part of OSPI to level the
playing field for students with vision loss, the accommodations provided our students
have gradually increased over the years to the extent that everything they use
in school to access learning is available to them for testing now (JAWS; 3D
models; tactile graphics; use of a reader/describer; extended time; testing
over multiple days; Braille; LP; auditory). We hope that online computer-based
testing will be accessible to some of our students in the future and anticipate
supporting OSPI when this medium is further developed. We are proud of the
support we give VI and blind students in Washington and will continue our
efforts to make high-stakes testing fair and accessible to them.
Current Student
Enrollment
Elementary: 6
Middle School: 11
High School: 41
LIFTT: 8
Total: 66
(8 are new students in the education department excluding LIFTT)
All of
these students may not have completed their evaluation process and have change
of placement by October 1. We have
possibly 5 more new students in beginning evaluation by mid-October.
Programming Changes
Students
transitioning out of high school this year are spending more of their day in
work experience and daily living skills instruction. We are expanding the work
experience program, trying to give more students the opportunity to work on job
sites off campus.
Change can be challenging and we have seen a great deal of
change this year. Change is also an
opportunity for growth. Working side by
side with the residential staff, we are looking forward to a great year of
communication and positive changes. I am excited to work with the staff and
students to make every aspect child centered, allowing each student get the
most benefit from their time at WSSB.
Human
Resources/Business Office
New Hires:
Tess
Brown is our new Residential Life Dean (RLD). Tess recently graduated
from PSU with a degree in Sociology and has worked with kids of various ages
and ability levels for about the last 5 years. Specifically she has been
working with Insights Teen Parent Program and Camp Kiwanis. Tess has a can-do
attitude and she is eager to learn more about our school, staff and students.
Libby
Pitts is not a new employee as she has been providing on-call assistance to
WSSB for several years now. Libby has primarily worked in the LIFTT
program but has also helped out in the cottages. She has been appointed
to the Residential Life Counselor (RLC) graveyard position. Libby has a
natural teaching ability and has worked with kids in many capacities,
especially in the life skills areas. She is excited to be appointed into the
permanent position and is anxious to take a larger role in our students’
success.
Wayne
Oshiro is our new Associate Principal. Wayne has an extensive background
working with blind and visually impaired (BVI) children. Wayne is a dual
certificated Teacher of the Visually Impaired (TVI), has an administrator
credential and has most recently been serving as an itinerate in
Oregon. He believes in student independence and enjoys working with
assistive technology. He is a natural leader and is not afraid to take on
new challenges. This makes him a perfect addition to our On-Campus program
JJ
Isaacson is our new math teacher. JJ has been teaching math courses for several
years now at the college level and has shown great enthusiasm as a practicum
teacher here at WSSB. She is currently attending PSU to finish her TVI
credential and gain some additional math endorsements for her
certification. She has a great sense of humor and plans to find fun and
exciting ways to engage our kids in wonderful world of mathematics.
Kim Curry
is our new School Counselor. Most of us know Kim from around campus and
the amazing work she has done with our students. Kim has demonstrated the
true spirit of WSSB by helping kids to work through some of life’s problems on
the individual level and by encouraging them to advocate for
themselves. We are excited to have Kim officially on staff!
Pam
Parker is one of our new TVI’s who will be providing itinerant services to kids
in the SW Washington area. Pam has been teaching for many years on the
eastside of the state and has developed a wonderful reputation as a TVI.
Kids show great growth when paired up with Pam and we believe she is a great
addition to the Outreach team.
Elizabeth
Asher will be joining the Outreach team in the Puget Sound area. She is
currently striving to completion of her TVI program and PSU and her professors
cannot say enough about how wonderful she is. Liz is organized and an
exceptional communicator. Her ability to operate either independently or
as group member make her an ideal candidate for our Outreach department.
Emily
Coleman is our new TVI on the eastside of the state. Emily is also
currently enrolled in the PSU program and comes packed with great
references. As a parent of a BVI child, Emily is anxious to work with
other parents to offer support and resources so that their children will be
successful, independent individuals in their adult life. Emily will play
a pivotal role in developing programs with districts on the eastside of the
state and we are very excited to have her on board.
Last but
certainly not least is our own Carrie Tanner. Carrie was an RLC for the
last few years and decided to enroll in the PSU TVI program. This decision
is great for her and for WSSB. Carrie will be working in the Outreach
Department serving kids in the SW Washington. As most of us know, Carrie
has a great personality and cares a great deal about students’ success. We
are confident that she will be another great WSSB teacher.
Current Recruitment:
Diana Stebbins, Outreach Instruction and Classroom Support Technician 3, has resigned effective 8/31/2011 to move closer to her family in Oregon. She has been providing excellent service to students throughout the SW Washington area for several years now and will be greatly missed by both our school as well as the many districts she has served. Fortunately for WSSB, our employee Teri Phillips has agreed to pick up where Diana left off by accepting the Outreach position. Teri will be primarily providing service to a very talented and academic child in the Felida area. As a result, we will have a vacancy in the Education department and we will be conducting a recruitment to fill that position as soon as possible.
Residential
LIFTT
The
program has had a few changes for the coming year; one is a staff change. Our
part time weekend position was removed when the Residential Life Counselor
(RLC) schedule was reorganized. It is being covered by current staff working
different scheduled days. This will provide more continuity of trained staff working
with students throughout the week. To assist with my workload, Jake Koch was
hired for a temporary appointment to work in a greater capacity. This is a very
welcome addition.
The
program expanded in space/capacity and student numbers this year. Outreach
staff moved off the 3rd floor and we now have potential space for 10
students. Currently we will have 8 by the end of September, plus our Resident
Advisor who lives in the residence. New furniture was purchased for the
bedrooms and common area and it is great! A new shower and another washer/dryer
were added to help with increased capacity. It would be difficult to have 10
students in the program with current staff levels and common area space, we are
anxious to see how we do with eight.
Residential
Two new
staff were hired to fill positions left vacant by RLC’s leaving. One is filling
a graveyard position, filled by our excellent on-call RLC, Libby Pitts, and the
other position was created to be a new position titled Residential Life Dean
(RLD). This is a 4 day per week/10 hour
per day shift that is a working shift with 3 hours daily for
supervisory/clerical duties. Tess Brown was hired to fill this position and is
quickly learning the position and together we are creating a good working team.
I am working
to meet the following goals:
Residential Program Goal:
1.
To
make the K-12 residential program a first class educational program.
2.
Provide
training for residential staff in all aspects of job such as techniques for
teaching Daily Living Skills, behavior management, using electronic formats for
communication (Office 10, IEP online, Skyward, etc.) Make sure they can access
training opportunities of their choosing.
3.
Provide
equal access to student and general school information by using accessible
formats to provide information to non sighted staff. Ensure that physical
environment in cottages is accessible to all staff, and students.
4.
Define
job duties and roles for each of the RLC’s.
5.
Set
expectations for staff work responsibilities and provide consistent follow
through and feedback.
6.
Create
an environment where everyone has a voice and has an opportunity to use their
strengths to create and manage projects with students and/or general school.
7.
Work
to build teamwork and cohesiveness amongst RLC staff, and also between
residential and school staff.
8.
Develop
the RLD position into an effective model in the residential dept.
Buildings and Grounds
Campus
·
We
are still working on the LEED submittal for the Kennedy Building. The
application is complete and we are currently reviewing the information prior to
submittal.
·
We
have met with an energy service contractor from Olympia as well as the state
Architectural Services coordinator to begin a complete energy audit for campus.
Their initial survey was complimentary in that they said we had already
undertaken many of the suggestions they would put forth. They are considering
lighting and boiler work as having the most cost affective payback period.
·
Offenders
from Larch Correctional Facility were on site for four days over summer break
and were able to paint all of the bedrooms, halls and door frames on the third
floor of Old Main. This cost the school the price of the paint and $100 a day
for ten workers and their escort.
·
Completion
of the swing set was delayed for several reasons. Vacations, wet weather and
the cancellation of the Eagle Scout project prevented us from having the swings
ready before the students returned. It should be fully operational by the time
the board meets on campus.
Superintendent
Since the
last board meeting (June, 2011) a lot has occurred with a very busy
summer. The following will provide you
with an overview and topics for discussion at the upcoming meeting.
Thank you to our outgoing board
members and welcome to new board members:
·
First,
I would like to thank Chuck Nelson, Congressional District #2 for many years of
service to BVI children throughout our state and the great advice he has
provided me and the school during both our tenures. Chuck did not come from a
background of training in BVI, but brought tremendous wisdom from many years of
service within the Federal Government system and through community involvement.
Thanks Chuck!
·
I
would also like to thank Annabelle Fitts, Congressional District # 7 for her
years of service to BVI children throughout our state. It really is a great
help to have former TVIs on our board in helping provide direction, especially
when these TVIs are those like Annabelle that work for local districts and used
the resources of WSSB. Thanks Annabelle!
Both of
these individuals will be missed, but I am sure that we will keep in contact.
The mix of background and the strength each person has brought to the board
over the years has been a key factor in much of the progress that has occurred
in our state in providing quality services.
·
John
Glenn, Congressional District #2 will be taking over the helm for Chuck. John is currently a TVI in the Bellingham
area and has been a leader in the grassroots movement for certification
recognition of TVI and O&M instructors. John also accompanied Craig and me
this past June to Vancouver, B.C. to meet with itinerant vision teachers and
key leaders in B.C. in regards to education of the blind.
·
Elaine
Akagi, Congressional District #7 will be taking over Annabelle’s position on
the board. Elaine is a retired TVI and
worked in the greater Seattle area for many years and will bring a wealth of
experience to our board.
Congratulations
and thank you to both of you for volunteering to represent the Governor’s
Office as Board of Trustees members for WSSB.
Partnerships:
WSSB
continues to explore new partnerships and new ways of providing services to BVI
children, their families and districts. These partnerships have been a key in
providing the wide array of services that we have been able to provide over the
years and have become even more important to WSSB and others both within and
outside our state in meeting the needs of children. I will talk about some of these partnerships,
but much of this conversation will also occur in various department reports.
·
British Columbia (BC) Connection: Our June,
2011 meeting has resulted in a number of positive results and we look forward
to many more in the future.
o
Summer
Computer Programming Camp: BC sent one
student to the computer programming camp this summer.
o
University
of BC (UBC) continues to work with the State Board Certification to receive
recognition of their University Training Program which could help Washington
meet some of our teacher shortage problems.
Beginning the summer of 2012, UBC is scheduled to begin an O&M
Program, which would be the only one in the Northwest.
·
Oregon:
WSSB continues to work with the state of Oregon in helping them meet the needs
of children who need intensive residential training, workshop opportunities and
summer school options.
o
At
this time we anticipate three out-of-state students from Oregon for this school
year.
o
Computer
Programming Camp – a few students from Oregon were in attendance.
o
WSSB
continues to have TVIs from Oregon enroll in a variety of workshops.
WSSB is scheduled to have another meeting with Oregon
Dept. of Education in October, 2011 to review of some shared services and to
discuss other opportunities for both states.
·
Outreach (Off-campus program): Outreach needs
continues to increase. Our biggest problem is trying to locate the highly
qualified TVIs and provide them competitive salaries not only to attract them,
but to retain them. Craig will cover the expansion of service in outreach in
his report.
o
Concern: How do we maintain competitive salaries with
the tremendous national shortage of TVIs and shortage of leadership in these
important programs.
·
Online Learning: Some great work has been done this past summer in this important
area, which Sherry will cover in her report on Online Learning.
o
Additional
Curriculum developed – opening to students outside WSSB.
o
New
technology put in place in enhance opportunities for both on-campus and online
learning.
o
Numerous
workshops provided both on-campus and through online services.
o
Potential
NSF Grant – in partnership with numerous organizations in the development of an
accessible/usable online Algebra Class.
Busy Summer: During economic difficult times
you can pull back and limit what is being done and/or continue to work on
partnerships and securing new funding to continue to meet the needs in our
field. WSSB has tried to follow the latter approach.
·
Summer School: This was made possible due to additional dollars that were brought
into our budget through numerous partnerships that spread our costs across more
individuals with funds from additional sources.
·
Computer Training Camp: A partnership with Southern Illinois University,
Washington State University and WSSB through a NSF Grant has been a key factor
in making this camp possible these past two summers with a final camp next
summer. Covering all the cost of this camp would not have been possible without
a grant from the Allergan Pharmaceutical Foundation.
·
125th Anniversary of WSSB: An alumni
convention and 125th celebration was made possible by registrations,
donations of time, money and labor from three lions clubs, the Washington
School for the Blind Foundation (WSBF) and many volunteers. This was a great
event thanks to many supporters of WSSB.
·
Sensory Learning Kit Training: Coordinated by Sherry Hahn and in partnership with the
American Printing House for the Blind (APH) a very successful training program
was provided for TVIs in the Pacific Northwest.
·
Summer Institute: A week long training program, coordinated by Dee Amundsen, outgoing
Director of Outreach, provided wonderful training to 51 teachers and
paraprofessionals from throughout our state. This program is funded by fees,
donations from private grants, and WSBF.
·
Baby Jamboree: Funded by dollars through Washington Sensory Disabilities Services
(WSDS)/OSPI a successful weekend program was provided to families of infant and
toddlers who are BVI. WSSB has been
asked if it could take this over in the future because funding from OSPI/WSDS
will not be available next summer.
I’m sure
I missed something, but as you can tell the summer was extremely busy and all
of this would not have been possible without numerous staff coming forward and
saying “yes we can make this happen”. A big thanks to custodial and grounds
staff for cleaning between all the groups, for setting up and tearing down
areas and to Food Service for handling all the meals.
Networking/Leadership Training
Over the
past number of years WSSB has tried to stay in the loop on a national basis,
but has not been able to send people to the APH/Council of Schools for the
Blind (COSB) meetings, which is probably the two most important meeting for a
variety of people to attend if we are to continue to make efficient use of our
funds through national partnerships, etc. Therefore, I am authorizing the
following people to attend APH in October in Louisville, KY. COSB Institute is back to back with the APH
meetings to help reduce costs.
·
Craig
Meador, New Director of Outreach – who will also be receiving a national award
from the COSB this October. Craig’s
travel expenses are covered under a grant from OSPI since Craig is the
Ex-Officio representing the OSPI/APH Accounts through the Printing House. This
also gives Craig the opportunity to connect with Outreach Directors from
throughout the U.S.
·
Colleen
Lines, Program Coordinator for the Ogden Resource Center (ORC). Colleen is in charge of the Instructional
Resource Center (IRC) and Braille Access Center (BAC) and the state’s lead for
NIMAC/NIMAS. Colleen’s travel will be covered under an OSPI Federal Grant.
Colleen has been instrumental on a national basis with the Braille Transcribers
Programs in Prisons. This is a great time for Colleen to learn from others and
share about new approaches in the production of braille, accessing materials
and networking with other people throughout the U.S.
·
Karen
Mowry’s (new Director of On Campus Programs) travel will be covered under a
Principal Development grant from OSPI. This will help Karen connect with principals
from throughout the U.S. as part of the Principal’s Association that meets in
conjunction with COSB.
·
Dean
Stenehjem, Ex-officio for APH representing WSSB. Attending as a representative
of WSSB. Important to fill part of my
obligation as an Ex-Officio Trustee to the APH and connect with leaders in the
file of BVI, and explore additional partnership that can result in more
efficient service delivery and opportunities for students/staff.
Budget Situation:
Capital Budget Funds
(2011-2013)
·
Appropriated
funds: $550,000
·
Re-appropriated
funds: $188,000
Total available
funds: $738,000
At the
time of this report I have not yet received a report from Small Agency Client
Services (SACS) regarding the closing of our books. We have provided directions
to SACS to Journal Voucher remaining operating funds to cover enough dollars so
that the total $188,000 in re-appropriated capital funds could be carried
forward. This will be very important to
help cover unanticipated costs with re-roofing projects that need to be
accelerated from when our budget was submitted over a year ago. If this
information is available before the board meeting I will provided an update.
Authorized
Preservation Projects:
·
Roofing
(estimate): $300,000
·
Tech/phone
(estimate): $155,000
·
Gutter
work on pool: $ 40,000
·
Painting/flooring
replacement: $ 60,000
·
Sidewalk/parking:
$ 45,000
·
General
Campus Energy: $ 60,000
·
Fire
Protection: $ 20,000
·
Cottage
Repair: $200,000
Total: $880,000
Projected
work is often listed at more than appropriated funds. The above is based upon
estimates. If bids come in lower than
anticipated we can accomplish more of the list and visa/versa.
Operating Budget:
·
2009-2011: Closing books – balances of unexpended funds.
o
This
information has not been provided us as of the time of this report from SACS. I
will fill you in on this at the meeting if we have this information by this
time.
·
2011-2013:
Allotments have been released by SACS to the Office of Financial Management
(OFM):
o
Total
allotted dollars: $6,749,505
[this represents General Fund State dollars (GFS)]: $5,780,000 plus authorization to expend
additional dollars: $834,500 in private local funds and $135,000 in private
local funds for short course = total private local authority of $969,000. [NOTE: private local funds authorized to
expend are not appropriated, but the authorization to expend if we are able to
raise these funds.
o
Difference
with SACS on funds available:
§
$6,749,505 with receipts of up to
$7,428,198. Still working with SACS on
accounting for the differences. I do know that some of the difference falls
into Private Enterprise Funds that do not have to be allotted, but we still
have a difference. Some of the above
will fall into what is called unanticipated receipts, should they
materialize. If so, we will need to
receive authorization to expend these funds.
§
WSSB will be submitting a Decision
Package to OFM asking for authorization to expend additional private local
funds.
o
Current Budget Status as of __________: ____????
§
Planning for the Future: Very difficult when you can’t count on resources being available from
day to day or month to month. We are
doing our best in being as creative as we can, forming new partnerships, but
without solid fiscal information it is extremely difficult to make timely and
solid decisions.
o
Budget Reduction Plan: All of the above is very
important in the development of budget reduction plans which need to be
submitted for 5% and 10% reductions. As mentioned in information sent out
earlier, WSSB does not feel that it should receive additional reductions based
upon the memo that was sent out from OFM stating that “Basic Education” is one
of the exceptions from the reduction plan. However, we still were instructed to
submit the plan, but told that this does not mean that we would be included.
§
Should we have to take a reduction in
General Fund State (GFS), our plan will be to try to buy back reductions with
private local funds should these funds become available.
o
The 5% and 10% budget reduction plans
will be handed out at the meeting in draft form for discussion. It is due In Olympia on September 22.
§
At the August Small Agency Cabinet
meeting it was shared with us that there will not be across the board
reductions and that all plans will be reviewed.
·
A lot of damage to programs can be done
when collecting very little dollars (e.g. a 10% reduction in GFS amounts to
$1.6 billion. Three agencies would
account for 1.1 billion, if you added OSPI if would add up to 1.2 billion and
1.5 billion if higher education were added).
·
Current
Budget status: __________________????
Potential Legislation
§
The
Department of Education concept will be introduced again this next session; I
would like to have some discussion regarding this:
o
Where
should WSSB be located in the future?
o
How
do we gain the best protection in services for BVI students/services?
o
What
system would give us the most flexibility in providing services and most
efficient?
o
Continued
expansion of services; should the school/agency have a different name?
o
We
will continue to change and we need to continue to examine our structure to see
if what worked in the past is still viable.