Under "Discussion Items" on the August 13 agenda are three points: 1) canvass of votes; 2) space utilization; and 3) Master facilities plan. The attachments to the agenda may also be viewed along with the agenda on the web site.

The other discussion items look interesting, as well. The district is seeking to hire a consultant for a "security audit." While safety is priority number one, I have a feeling the results of this one will go in the file for "reasons we need to pass the referendum." The superintendent is also recommending paying consultant Ron Williamson close to $20,000. Apparently, he has been helping a team of teachers, staff and parents shape a renewed mission/vision statement for Hadley. The contract would be for him to continue his work to help shape action plans and strategies in school improvement and in program evaluation for exploratories.

The meeting tonight is at 7:30 p.m. at 793 Main Street.

Is that consultant through the CEC- consortium for eduacational change. Most area districts are part of that. I wonder why one of our full time central office administrator couldn't do those tasks though. Perhaps the quality assurance person.

quote:

Originally posted by mrsspeechlady:
Is that consultant through the CEC- consortium for eduacational change. Most area districts are part of that. I wonder why one of our full time central office administrator couldn't do those tasks though. Perhaps the quality assurance person.

Hmmmm. Consultant. District 41. Sounds like a fee that must be spent. Never mind the inherent creativity in the District.

Remember, $2000 was spent to facilitate an in-house 5 hour retreat. The company that was paid was the headhunter who placed the superintendent with District 41. The facilitator was a sitting superintendent from another school district. Last retreat, on August 9, there was no facilitator.

How did they ever get anything done?

How indeed. Afterall the retreat was at the district office instead of at Cantigny Golf Club, where I am sure it was more conducive to "retreat." FYI...a quick search of the District web site renders these minutes from the retreat held in August, 2006 at Catigny. That retreat was also facilitated by Dr. Gmitro. How nice that the district was able to persuade him to make a return visit back in June even if they had to meet in Administation building, tsk tsk.

quote:

Originally posted by ohma:
At least the retreat was at the district office instead of at Cantigny Golf Club, where I am sure it was more conducive to "retreat." FYI...a quick search of the District web site renders these minutes from the retreat held in August, 2006 at Catigny. That retreat was also facilitated by Dr. Gmitro. How nice that the district was able to persuade him to make a return visit even if they had to meet in Administation building, tsk tsk.

Was he, or anyone else paid for that? Or did all the money go to the Club? Did they at least get a sleeve of golf balls?

I guess our own facilities here in District 41, just weren't "up to par" for the board last year. The banquet offerings at Cantigny must have been much better for retreating.

quote:

Originally posted by ohma:
Under "Discussion Items" on the August 13 agenda are three points: 1) canvass of votes; 2) space utilization; and 3) Master facilities plan. The attachments to the agenda may also be viewed along with the agenda on the web site.

1) Been there done that...When will they get the hint. 2) Didn't we do that already? Kids studying in closets and stages etc.. 3) Probably the single most useful piece of information for future planning I can foresee. The problem is the information that is supplied by the District to the eventual "consultant" and the timeframe for the report. (Due at the December meeting, in time for an emergency referendum discussion for January inclusion on spring ballot).

Long range and use planning have not gone hand in hand over the years simply because they have not been able to accurately predict enrollment changes. Can anyone? maybe not, but the master plan should account for this flexibility without major bricks and mortar as the sole answer to changing enrollment from year to year.

Also, remember that Kasarda's report hinged the affect of enrollment almost entirely on the interest rate and the housing market. Current housing economic conditions do not foresee increased enrollment for the next couple of years, at least.

p.s. welcome back "Tiger"