The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, and Dawn Robinson. Evelyn Rockholt was absent. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, Arleah DiFebbo of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins from the Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Max Carroll and a second by Tom Cloud.

In the first spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning presented Mr. Scott Carroll, athletic director at Cleveland Middle School to congratulate him on completing the "Certified Athletic Administrator" process.

In the second spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning announced that several teachers and the principal from Cleveland Middle School would be participating in the Appalachia Corridor Teaching American History grant. The grant is a three-year program that allows the participants to receive a Master’s or EDS degree through Tennessee Tech.

In the third spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning presented Mrs. Betsy Hondorf, Swimming Coach of Cleveland High School. Mrs. Hondorf has been invited to join the ASCA (American Swimming Coaches Association) Fellows Class of 2008.

Dr. Rick Denning announced that as part of the Good News from Cleveland Schools he would be adding a section entitled "On the Human Side." This month on the human side he announced that he received a memorandum from a parent and teacher from Cleveland Middle School praising the staff at Cleveland Middle School for her son’s experience at the middle school in his eighth grade year. Also on the human side Dr. Denning stated that after the death of one Cleveland High School student, several of the teachers gathered at the school with the students in the evening during the summer to counsel the students who had gone to the high school to be with each other in their grieving. Dr. Denning felt this was above and beyond the call of a teacher’s duties and wanted them to know he thought that this was a wonderful thing to do.

Dr. Rick Denning gave an update on the skateboard resolution passed by the Board at the June meeting. Dr. Denning received an email from City Manager, Janice Casteel stating that a city citation can be issued to those individuals actually skate boarding on the school premises and a state citation can be issued to anyone trespassing on the roofs. If an individual is found on the roof with a skateboard, a city citation can be issued.

Dr. Denning updated the Board on the progress being made installing the HVAC systems at George R. Stuart Elementary School. He commended CCS maintenance department for its hard work and stated that the maintenance crew had saved over $100,000 to the system by completing the work themselves.

Dr. Denning announced that the September Board of Education Meeting would be held on September 8 due to the first Monday being Labor Day. The October meeting will be held on October 6. This will start the meeting time change to the first Monday of each month instead of the second Monday of each month.

Dr. Denning shared with the Board a memorandum he sent to all Cleveland City School employees restricting travel because of the current economic situation. If an employee wished to attend a conference they will be required to personally bear the expense. The only exception will be travel approved prior to the memorandum and mandates dictated by federal, state or grant requirements.

Dr. Denning announced that the State Comptroller would be visiting Cleveland/Bradley County on July 29, 2008 from 9:00 – 11:30 at Cleveland High School. Senator Dewayne Bunch has asked the comptroller to come to Bradley County to explain the new legislation pertaining to school support organizations.

Dr. Denning shared a memorandum he received from Brenda Carson, Business Manager for Cleveland City Schools regarding the new 403b Administration requirements.

Dr. Rodney Fitzgerald gave a summary of the work done for Cleveland City and Bradley County Schools under the Safe Schools Healthy Students grant. Dr. Fitzgerald stated that the grant will run through September of 2009 and that hopefully after that time many of the programs that have been set up during the course of the grant will be picked up by the school systems.

Ms. Joan Bradburn and Mr. Andrew Phillips demonstrated a new computer set up that the technology department has been using in some of the city schools. The set up allows multiple compute monitors to run off of one computer hard drive. This will reduce the cost to schools that will be replacing aging computers. Mr. Phillips also demonstrated a computer program which allows him to work on individual computers in the system from his desk saving time and travel to the individual schools.

Dr. Denning shared the Free/Reduced Lunch percentages as of February 2008 with the Board.

Dr. Denning introduced Mr. Jeffrey Elliott, principal of Cleveland Middle School to share guidelines he has written for and 8^th grade academic promotion procedure. This system would be a concept toward teaching the students about earning credits. Dr. Rick Denning made a recommendation to the Board to allow Mr. Elliott to try this program. A motion was made by Peggy Pesterfield to allow Cleveland Middle School to try this academic promotion procedure, after some minor changes are made to wording regarding special education students. The motion received a second by Dr. Murl Dirksen. The vote was unanimous

Dr. Rick Denning presented a revision of the Long Range Facility Plan presented at a previous meeting. The newly revised plan prioritized the facility needs into categories and in priority needs selected by the principal of the schools. The board of education agreed by general consent that the director would take the long range facilities plan to the site committee to come up with the top ten items or top $1 million dollars worth of improvements to present to the city council at its Fall Budget retreat. The Board will revisit the list after it has been revised at the August or September Board meeting.

The Board evaluated the Director of Schools and found him to be in compliance in all areas of Qualifications and Duties and School District Goals. A motion was made by Max Carroll that the Director be found in compliance in the areas of Qualifications and Duties and School District Goals. The motion received a second by Tom Cloud. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning asked the Board to pick a date for Mr. Ron Woody of CTAS to present a finance workshop to the City School Board, the City Council, the Bradley County school Board and the Bradley County Commissioners. The board decided on the September 15, 2008, date to arrange for this workshop. Dr. Denning will contact Mr. Woody and contact the city and county groups to see if they are interested in attending this workshop.

Dr. Rick Denning shared an email he received from Mr. Brian Templeton of Upland Design Group regarding the cost of the storm water permit for the proposed science wing at Cleveland High School. The cost for this work will be $8,500.00. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen and seconded by Max Carroll that Dr. Denning, on behalf of the board take its request to the city council for funding. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning handed out the Strategic Plan for the 2008 – 2009 school year. He stated that revisions are being made and will be available on the school website. Ms. Debby Torres will be presenting the revised plan to the Board at the August Board meeting.

Item 14, TSBA Media Award was removed from the agenda because the due date for the nominations has already passed.

Chairman Dawn Robinson asked the Board of Education to review the 2009 Position Statement and Resolutions information provided by Mr. Stephen Smith of TSBA and to bring back any ideas to the August Board meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m.

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Murl Dirksen was absent. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis and Arleah DiFebbo of the Cleveland Daily Banner were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Tom Cloud and a second by Evelyn Rockholt.

In the first spotlight, Dr. LeBron Lackey reported that the soccer parents group had decided to pledge to pay for the cost of the soccer field lights for the first year. Mr. Tom Cloud made a motion to accept the donation from the soccer parents to pay $14,410.56 constituting a one-year lease on the soccer field lights and to authorize Dr. Rick Denning to enter into a contract with Cleveland Utilities for this lease. The motion received a second from Evelyn Rockholt. The vote was unanimous.

In the first spotlight, Dr. Denning recognized Mrs. Dee Dee Finison for her efforts and the efforts of the entire Reading First Grant team in securing another installment of the grant.

In the second spotlight, Dr. Denning recognized Mrs. Brenda Carson for doing a good job in keeping the Cleveland City Schools systems recorded in such order that the state auditors have come to Cleveland to do audits based on the fact that Cleveland has always kept such good records.

Dr. Rick Denning handed out copies of the Good News reports from the schools in the system.

Dr. Rick Denning introduced Mr. Brian Templeton and Mr. Kim Chamberlain, Architects from Upland Design Group. Mr. Templeton and Mr. Chamberlain presented a schematic design of the proposed Science Wing for Cleveland High School. The architects stated that they had met with the faculty at Cleveland High School and mentioned that they are excited about the momentum this project has taken on. Along with the designs a cost estimate was presented. Mr. Max Carroll made the motion that the board choose Option A as their choice from the two designs presented. Bill Brown seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

The architects stated that they would provide Dr. Denning with an estimate of the cost for additional design work.

Dr. Rick Denning recommended that the Board pay Cleveland Surveying Company for an additional topographic survey of the western side of the Cleveland High School property. The charge for this service will not exceed $1,750.00

Dr. Rick Denning presented the 2008 –2009 General Fund Budget. Max Carroll made a motion to approve the budget as printed and to make amendments as needed. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Dawn Robinson presented an evaluation document to be used in evaluating the director of schools. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to use the evaluation document in evaluating the director. The motion received a second from Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous.

Policy 1.805 Use of Electronic Mail was presented on first reading. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the policy as written. The motion received a second from Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous.

Mr. Bill Brown stated that he had been advised by the principal of Stuart school that skateboarders were getting on the roof of the school. Mr. Goff, Principal of Stuart School spoke with the city police department but they expressed to him that there was not a specific ordinance in place to deal with this type of incident and that very little enforcement was available. Mr. Brown stated that he would like to make a motion that the board request the city and county to establish an ordinance of trespassing and to specifically define trespassing as being around the HVAC system, on the roof and in the offices secured by locks. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Dawn Robinson asked the board to make a motion with regard to the delivery method for the construction of the proposed science wing at Cleveland High School. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to commit to hiring a general contractor for the proposed science wing upon funding from the Cleveland City Council. The motion received a second by Peggy Pesterfield. Chairman Robinson then asked each board member to discuss their reason for the use of either a general contractor or a construction manager. Each board member stated his or her reason for choosing one method or the other. Mr. Bill Brown handed out a prepared memorandum that he would like to be made a part of the minutes of this meeting. The vote on the motion was taken by roll call. Evelyn Rockholt voted yes, Peggy Pesterfield voted yes, Tom Cloud voted yes, Max Carroll voted yes, Bill Brown voted no and Dawn Robinson voted no.

Evelyn Rockholt and Peggy Pesterfield shared their experience at the NSBA annual conference regarding Virtual School. Mrs. Rockholt stated that with the budget being as tight as it is and with overcrowding, perhaps the high school could look into the virtual school program in order to offer classes that would not require a full time teacher. It was decided that this would be discussed again at the August board meeting as there are some costs associated with these types of courses.

Peggy Pesterfield and Evelyn Rockholt shared their other experiences at the NSBA annual conference.

Peggy Pesterfield gave a legislative update. Mrs. Pesterfield briefly highlighted the legislation being proposed pertaining to public schools.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:37 p.m.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

May 15, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in a special called meeting on the above date at Cleveland Middle School in the library conference room, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press, Brenda Carson and Jeff Elliott were present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order.

Brenda Carson presented for approval the 2007 – 2008 Budget Amendment #2. Max Carroll made a motion to accept the 2007 –2008 Budget Amendment #2. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Denning shared a problem regarding the survey drawn of the Cleveland High School property for the proposed science wing. During the last site committee it was decided that a new survey was needed to include the southwest corner of the property. A motion was made by Peggy Pesterfield to have Cleveland Surveying do an additional survey of the southwest corner of the Cleveland High School property with a cost not to exceed $2,000.00. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

The meeting adjourned.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

May 5, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News and David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Evelyn Rockholt and a second by Tom Cloud.

In the first spotlight, Renny Whittenbarger reported on the regional and state CTSO winners. The competition included contest in the areas of business, skills USA, Ford AAA, HOSA and TSA. Many Cleveland High School students placed in first and second place.

In the second spotlight, Carolyn Ingram, principal of Yates Primary School congratulated her PTO officers and members for the amount of money raised for her school allowing them to purchase active boards in value of over $40,000. Mrs. Ingram also announced that Yates Primary School would be celebrating Yates Day on May 18^th from 2:00 – 4:00.

In the third spotlight, Chuck Rockholt, principal of Cleveland High School recognized CHS student Madyson Foster who will be representing Tennessee at the Miss America’s Teen contest in August.

In the fourth spotlight, Jim David, teacher at Cleveland Middle School thanked the Board of Education for the opportunity to participate in the Project Citizen program. Barbara Ector, teacher at Cleveland Middle School introduced the students who will be competing in the Project Citizen contest. The students performed a sample of the project they have worked on and will be presenting at the competition.

In the fifth spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning recognized Mr. Hal Taylor of Air Exchange, Inc. for installing the ventilation hoods in the science laboratories. Mr. Taylor’s company did the labor at cost for the high school.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Good News report from Cleveland City Schools.

Dr. Rick Denning asked for permission from the Board to give him the authority to bring the issue of the school time change back to the Board during the next school year for consideration. He said he needed more time to research the advantages and disadvantages of the change. The Board acknowledged that he could have more time.

Dr. Rick Denning announced to the Board that the Food Service Department of Cleveland City Schools is participating in a Buying Group with other southeast school systems in an effort to save money on school meals.

Dr. Rick Denning announced to the Board that the Administrators of Cleveland City Schools would hold a technology workshop/retreat on the use of Ipod Technology. He stated that the workshop will keep the administrators informed of the latest technology and current practices. Dr. Denning asked the Board members to join them in this workshop on Saturday, August 23, 2008 at Mayfield Elementary School. The board members agreed to participate.

Dr. Lebron Lackey gave a report on the community soccer field that is being used the Cleveland High School’s soccer team. Dr. Lackey reported on the many improvements the soccer parents have made to the soccer complex including bleachers. Dr. Lackey stated that the City of Cleveland will be paving the drives around the fields and that he was asking the Board of Education to provide lighting to the complex. He stated that the lights would allow the complex to be used for competition bringing in more tax revenues to the City of Cleveland. The Board of Education asked Dr. Lackey to come back to the June Board of Education meeting to discuss the lights again. The Board is waiting for word on funding at this time.

Policy 4.600 Grade System was presented on first reading. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the policy as written. A second was made by Bill Brown. The vote was unanimous.

Policy 5.306 Military Leave was presented on first reading. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the policy as written. A second was made by Bill Brown. The vote was unanimous

Policy 5.801 Director of Schools Recruitment was present on first reading. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the policy as written. A second was made by Bill Brown. The vote was unanimous.

Mr. Doug Greene presented an energy audit to the Board of Education. He along with Tommy Green explained the process of collecting the data they found. Mr. Greene discussed the data showing that in roofing alone the school system has saved money. The oldest roof in the system is the one put on the new portion of Blythe-Bower Elementary School. Dr. Dirksen asked if changing the type of lighting fixtures could help and Mr. Greene stated that it could and is being changed when needed. Mr. Tommy Green stated that the number of maintenance work orders have increased over the years and will in deed increase more but that the maintenance department is handling the work orders efficiently and that 75% of work orders are taken care of in one day. Mr. Doug Greene stated that the equipment the Board has put in place to save energy is showing a saving but it is hard to compare what is normal across the system because of the different types of energy used. Mr. Tommy Green stated that the maintenance department has computerized controls for some of the schools and that hopefully all the schools will be computerized in the future. Mr. Bill Brown asked if the energy loan the school system took part in a few years ago(QSAB) could be borrowed from to help with energy savings. Dr. Denning stated that he would look into this and report back at the next board meeting.

Ms. Zandra Morris, teacher at Cleveland High School reported on some new health and wellness programs that are being adopted at the high school in an effort to reduce obesity in teenage students.

Ms. Lana Green, Mr. Paul Ramsey and Mrs. Kellye Bender presented the Second Step Program being implemented by Ms. Green at the elementary schools. The program is a violence prevention curriculum, school-based social and emotional learning program that has had positive results enhancing academic achievement. This program is being taught to the teachers by Ms. Lana Green who was hired with funds provided by the Safe Schools Healthy Students grant. Board members expressed interest in having this program available in all the schools. They asked Dr. Denning to review it with his principals and report back to the board.

Debby Torres gave an update on the strategic plan with an overall review of what progress is being made to meet the current plan.

The tuition rate increase was voted on by the Board. A motion was made by Bill Brown to increase the tuition rate by 4%. Murl Dirksen seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Peggy Pesterfield gave a legislative update. Mrs. Pesterfield briefly highlighted the legislation being proposed pertaining to public schools.

Dr. Murl Dirksen gave a report on the site committee meetings held during the past month. Dr. Dirksen stated that the committee reviewed a list of long range facility items and had asked Dr. Denning to review the list with the administration and prioritize the items for the board to review. A motion was made by Tom Cloud to put a vote on the project delivery method on the agenda for June. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was four to two. (Dawn Robinson and Bill Brown voted no.)

Bill Brown reported that the lawsuit regarding the title on the old Mayfield School property has been resolved and that the property should be closed on May 21^st or 22^nd.

Rick Denning reported that the architects for the proposed science wing will have a schematic design ready by May 29^th and will present it to the board at its June meeting.

Evelyn Rockholt made a motion to change the June Board meeting from June 9 to June 2. The motion was seconded by Tom Cloud. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Dawn Robinson asked the board to agree to move the July Board meeting from July 14 to the 21^st. Murl Dirksen made the motion to move the July board meeting to July 21^st. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Dawn Robinson asked the board to consider moving the regular board meetings from the second Monday to the first Monday of each month beginning with the first Monday in October. Murl Dirksen made the motion to move the regular board meetings from the second Monday of the month to the first Monday of the month beginning with October 6, 2008. The motion was seconded by Tom Cloud. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Dawn Robinson asked the board to meet privately after the regular meeting adjourned to discuss a pending legal matter.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:24 p.m.

All media, guests and employees left the boardroom.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

April 7, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, Beth Foster of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Evelyn Rockholt and a second by Peggy Pesterfield.

The architects from Upland Design Group, Brian Templeton and Kim Chamberlin presented a design for the proposed new Science Wing at Cleveland High School. After the presentation and questions and answers, a motion was made by Bill Brown to authorize the architectural firm of Upland Design Group to proceed to the next step of the process. The motion was seconded by Evelyn Rockholt. A suggestion was made to amend the motion to see if the community has any additions to make to the proposed design presented by Upland Design Group. The architects will be presenting to the science focus committee later in the evening. An amendment was made by Bill Brown to add the language. The motion read to authorize the architectural firm of Upland Design Group to proceed to the next step of the process if the community does not have any additions. The amendment was seconded by Tom Cloud. The vote to the amended motion was unanimous. The vote to the main motion was unanimous.

In the first spotlight, Chuck Rockholt introduced the students who have received commended status of the National Merit Scholars. Those students were Hannah Long, Rachel Isoms, Adil Niaz and Nick Peterson. The Board congratulated the student who received this commendation.

In the second spotlight, Patty Puckett, teacher at Cleveland High School introduced the students who attended the SCOPE conference in March. She thanked the Board for allowing the students to participate in this function each year. The students who attended were Zye Hooks, Kieley Best, Dan Henley, Emily Johnson and Erica Swindle. The students present gave a brief description of their day at the conference and thanked the Board for letting them participate.

In the third spotlight, Julie Phillips, teacher at Cleveland High School introduced the student who attended the Model UN conference in Chicago. The student were: Seniors: Will Curtis, Tyler Jackson, Josh Moore, Elisabeth Schweers, Zye Hooks, Jacky Basinsky, Houston York, Zac Ingraham and Michelle Dyer. Juniors: Thomas Wasson, James Laney and Ariel Hernandez. The students shared their experience at Model UN and thanked the Board for the opportunity to attend. Ms. Phillips shared some of the highlights from the conference.

In the fourth spotlight Seth Jones, teacher at Cleveland High School presented a power point demonstration of the web page he designed and how he is using this web page to assist his students with taking notes and catching up on classes they miss. He has all the notes from his class written out on the web page and the homework assignments. The board was very impressed by the use of technology in teaching the math class.

Dr. Denning handed out copies of the book "How Full is your Bucket" to the Board members for their information.

Dr. Denning shared some facts regarding the number of students from Cleveland High School who go on to attend four year and two year colleges. The combination of two made up 80% of the graduating class from the year 2007.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Good News report from Cleveland City Schools.

Policy 2.404 was presented on first reading. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the policy as written. A Second was made by Murl Dirksen. After some discussion, Bill Brown asked that the policy be amended for second reading. He would like to see the language added to procedures: Cleveland City Schools does not recognize student support organizations as defined by TCA Title 49, Chapter 2, Section 4. The motion was voted on and was unanimous.

Murl Dirksen asked the Board to review policies 5.500 and 6.304 and to ask Dr. Denning to review the policies with the Administrative Staff. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen that the Board ask Dr. Denning to review policies 5.500 and 6.304 with the staff to make sure policy is being followed. The motion was seconded by Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Dawn Robinson asked the Board what they would like to do in recognition of National Teachers Day on May 6^th. The Board discussed handing the teachers apples and thanking them for all their hard work. The Board also discussed providing lunch for the teachers during the week of May 6^th. The Board decided to do both. On May 6^th they will hand deliver apples to the elementary schools and the Teen Learning Center. On May 7^th they will hand deliver apples to the Middle School and High School. Murl Dirksen will present apples to Arnold Memorial Elementary School, Peggy Pesterfield will present apples to Mayfield Elementary School, Bill Brown will present apples to Stuart Elementary School, Tom Cloud will present apples to Ross Elementary School, Dawn Robinson will present apples to Yates Primary School, Evelyn Rockholt will present apples to the Teen Learning Center, Max Carroll will present apples to Blythe-Bower Elementary School. On May 7^th the Board Members will present apples to Cleveland Middle School and Cleveland High School. Later in the week the board will provide lunch to all the teachers in all the schools.

Peggy Pesterfield gave the legislative report. She read some of the legislation pertaining to education.

Cathy Goodman gave a report on Singapore Math. This system of teaching math originated in Singapore. She stated that the system was good but that it used a lot of home participation and after school time was required. She added that she spoke with the math consultant used by Cleveland City School and she said she had not heard very much about the system and could not recommend it. Mrs. Goodman added that the system does not give skill and drill practice. The board members thanked Mrs. Goodman for her research of this subject.

Tom Cloud made a recommendation that the board vote to name the new science wing at Cleveland High School the "Max R. Carroll Science Wing." A motion was made by Tom Cloud to name the proposed new Science Wing the Max R. Carroll Science Wing. Peggy Pesterfield seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:13 p.m.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

MARCH 20, 2007

The Cleveland Board of Education met in a special called session on Thursday, March 20, 2008, 8:00 a.m. at the Administrative Office Building, 4300 Mouse Creek Road, Cleveland. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Dawn Robinson, and Evelyn Rockholt. Randall Higgins of the Times Free Press and David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner were also in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order.

The agenda was unanimously approved with a motion by Bill Brown and second by Tom Cloud.

Bill Brown made a motion to approve the 2007-2008 General Fund Budget Amendments and Food Service Amendments. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. Dr. Murl Dirksen asked how long the school system would get funding from the safe schools grant. The answer to his question was that the grant has been going year to year and the funds are not budgeted until we know we are getting the funds. The Board unanimously approved the 2007-2008 General Fund Budget Amendments and Food Service Amendments.

Dr. Rick Denning, Director of Schools presented the 2008 – 2009 General Budget to the Board of Education. During the discussion of the 2008 – 2009 general budget Bill Brown asked a few questions about special education funding. Ione Carter answered the questions stating that federal funding would be reduced again this year.

Bill Brown also discussed an issue that was carried over from last year regarding lights for the Community Soccer field. The Cleveland High School Soccer team is playing its games at the Community Soccer field and Mr. Brown stated that last year he remembers that the Board agreed by nodding their heads to pay for lights at the Community Soccer field while being used by the Cleveland High School team. Chairman Robinson stated that, while the board may have agreed that the lights would be nice to have, she did not believe and the minutes do not reflect that any vote was ever taken. She also stated that the board had never received any estimates for the cost and therefore it was unlikely that the board had voted on the expenditure. Mr. Brown would like this budget item to be added to the want list attached to the proposed general budget.

A motion was made by Max Carroll to approve the proposed 2008 – 2009 General Budget. The motion was seconded by Murl Dirksen. Bill Brown asked to amend the motion to include that to meet the needs of the federal teachers we will need to come up with additional state and local revenue to cover that expense so that the special education department does not have to subtract something to cover their budget. The vote was unanimous on the amendment to the motion. Mr. Brown then stated that he would like the soccer stadium lights added to the want list and that it be added to the list that goes to the city council. It was pointed out that the want list is not listed in priority.

The vote to the original motion was then voted on and unanimously approved.

Dr. Rick Denning recommended that in lieu of a rocking chair, a retirement bonus be given to retiring employees of Cleveland City Schools who have worked in the School system for a minimum of 15 years and have met the requirement of the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System. The bonus plan is as follows:

$5.00 per day for the first 100 sick leave days accumulated

$10.00 per day for 101 – 150 sick leave days accumulated

$20.00 per day for 151 – 200 sick leave days accumulated

Dr. Denning recommended that this bonus plan begin with retiring employees of 2007 – 2008. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to give retiring employees the bonus for accumulated sick leave days as set out by Dr. Denning. Bill Brown seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Denning discuss the Differentiated Pay Plan set out by the State of Tennessee and stated that according to our interpretation of the differentiated pay plan that Cleveland City Schools already has a differentiated pay plan that meets the criteria set out by the State.

The Board adjourned at 9:10 a.m. by general consent.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

March 10, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Max Carroll and a second by Evelyn Rockholt.

In the first spotlight, Chairman Dawn Robinson recognized the Teachers of the Year as follows:

Richelle Shelton – Yates Primary School – system-wide winner in PreK-5

Jean Dunn – Cleveland Middle School – system-wide winner in 6 - 8

Abby Lamb – Cleveland High School – system-wide winner in 9 - 12

The building level teachers of the year are as follows:

Phyllis Anderson – Cleveland Middle School

Anne Woody – Cleveland Middle School

Paula Pedrick – Arnold Memorial Elementary School

Karen Malik – Stuart Elementary School

Rachael Dooley – Cleveland High School

Sonia Griffey – Blythe-Bower Elementary School

Don Markham – Cleveland High School

Lori Ingraham – E. L. Ross Elementary School

Blair Deacon – Teen Learning Center

Michael Rogers – Mayfield Elementary School

In the second spotlight, Principal Jeff Elliott introduced Barbara Ector and gave a power point presentation of Mrs. Ector’s social studies class at Cleveland Middle School. Mr. Elliott announced that Mrs. Ector has been named as one of the Tennessee Outstanding Social Studies Teachers of the Year for 2008 by the Tennessee Council for the Social Studies.

In the third spotlight, Principal Jeff Elliott introduced Mr. Joel Barnes, teacher at Cleveland Middle School who presented the new "Slate" Technology used by some of the classrooms at Cleveland Middle School. This technology is used primarily in the secondary education because it gives the teacher more mobility around the classroom as opposed to standing at a computer and using the ActivBoard. The cost of the "Slate" units are lower than the cost of an ActivBaord.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Good News report from Cleveland City Schools.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Dr. Denning presented a letter from Senator Jim Tracy and Representative David Hawk regarding the use of lottery money. The Board asked that Dr. Denning pull the resolution from last year regarding this issue and secure more signatures.

Dr. Denning presented a memorandum from the Brenda Carson, Business Manager, regarding BEP Growth Funds and an update on the system’s Debt Service.

Dr. Murl Dirksen handed out a report from a meeting held on Friday, March 7^th with Upland Design Group regarding the proposed Cleveland High School Science Wing. The report included a timeline, architectural fees, pay schedule, a rough estimate of the square footage for the proposed design, a rough estimate of the cost per square foot and architectural fees. Dr. Denning and Dr. Dirksen made the statement that the City Council has been very generous in coming forth with funding for Cleveland City School.

Dr. Denning reported on a ventilation problem in the science laboratories at Cleveland High School. He stated that one teacher and some of the students have been ill due to poor ventilation. Mr. Bill Brown stated that this emphasizes how important the new science wing is. A suggestion was made from a member of the community that ventilation hoods could possibly be donated to the school. The Board charged Dr. Denning with finding out how much it would cost to install hoods in the existing laboratories. The board also asked Dr. Denning to confer with Mr. Rockholt and try to find a temporary solution until a hood can be purchased or installed. The board agreed to revisit this issue when the research is complete.

Shelly Copeland, Supervisor of Food Services presented the Board with a report of insufficient funds in her department. The Board asked Dr. Denning for a recommendation and he stated that he did not have one at this point. He stated that the issue was a delicate matter and he would like to study it further. There was some discussion about starting to pick up some fees from the Payschools program to help pay for the insufficient funds. No decision was made at this time.

Gloria Scott-Richmond presented the CEA Budget Requests. She stated that the teachers enjoyed their 5% pay increase last year. She said the request she has would benefit the full spectrum of our system. She added that it is a challenge to live on an educator’s salary and she asked that the Board continue to implement the momentum of 5% increases to help with the cost of living expenses. Mrs. Scott-Richmond added that teaching is a "calling," they are not in it for the money.

The Board members gave reports from the TSBA Day on the Hill.

The May Board meeting was moved to Monday, May 5^th by general consent.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

March 3, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in a special called meeting on the above date in the Library of Cleveland High School, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson, Evelyn Rockholt and Dr. Rick Denning, Director of Schools. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, and David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The first item on the agenda was to choose an architectural firm for the proposed science wing of Cleveland High School. The motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt that the Board enter into a contract with Upland Design Group. Murl Dirksen seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

It was stated that the contract would be a standard contract. The Board members agreed that they would need to find out if funding would be approved for the project before a contract is signed. The City Council will be meeting on Monday, March 10, and the Board will request funding at this meeting. It was agreed that the board should not send out RFQ’s for contractors until they know if they have funding.

Dr. Denning announced that he signed the contract with Cleveland Surveying for the science wing project at CHS.

The Board discussed what they would be requesting from City Council. They had questions regarding what would be owed to the architect if they enter into a contract and funding is not granted. The Board charged Dr. Denning with setting up a meeting with Upland Design Group before the City Council Meeting on Monday and to include the Site Committee chairmen in the discussion. The Site Committee chairmen will then go before the City Council on Monday with the information gathered from the meeting with Upland Design Group.

Dr. Rick Denning was also charged with writing an RFQ for general contractors and construction managers by March 11, 2008. The board stated that before it decides what method to use for building, it would like to hear presentations from all interested parties who respond to the RFQ’s appropriately. The site committee will review and approve the RFQ form at the March 11 site committee meeting and then decide how to proceed.

The Geotech bid process was discussed and it was decided that the architects must have input on specs for the geotech surveys before RFP’s can be developed. Dr. Denning will discuss that with Upland Design Group and report back to the site committee.

In summary, on Monday, March 10, 2008, at the City Council Meeting the Chairman of the Site Committee of the Cleveland City School Board will ask the City Council for funding for the Architect and, if possible, the Geotech bidding survey. The school board would also like to receive some feedback regarding the total funding of the science wing project.

A motion to adjourn was made by Murl Dirksen. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous and the meeting was adjourned 6:03 p.m.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
BOARD OF EDUCATION

Retreat at Lee University

March 1, 2008

The board met at 8 AM in the conference room of the music building at Lee University.

Dr. George Nerren facilitated board discussion on what constitutes effective school boards. The board also viewed a compilation of its own scores on an instrument designed to identify board strengths and weaknesses.

After a short break, the board began discussing the presentations that the architects made on February 21 regarding a new science wing for Cleveland High School. The board identified strengths and weaknesses from each architect’s presentation. Through discussion and debate the board identified the favorite two of the four architects. A vote for the chosen architect will be taken at a special called meeting on March 3, 2008.

Input was welcomed from all attending the retreat.

Dr. Denning reviewed the capital expenditure list with the recommendation to ask the site committee to develop a five-year plan. The board agreed. The site committee will be meeting every Tuesday at 1:30 PM with a few exceptions.

The board discussed different options for building delivery of the new proposed science wing at CHS. Every board member had an opportunity to discuss pros and cons of general contracting vs. construction management. By consensus the board agreed that openness and fairness was very important to the final decision. The board agreed to solicit RFP’s from both types of services and to allow Dr. Denning to develop an RFP to present to the site committee on March 11.

Dr. Denning presented some opportunities for continuing to fund active boards in our schools with the ultimate goal of having them in all classrooms. After this summer, all K-5 classrooms will be equipped with Activeboards.

The retreat adjourned at about 3:15 PM

Present: Director of Schools Dr. Rick Denning, Board members: Dawn Robinson, Peggy Pesterfield, Bill Brown, Murl Dirksen, Evelyn Rockholt, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud.

CHS Principal Chuck Rockholt Science Focus Group Members: Jean Jordan, Sandy Martin, Judy Watts

Press: Greg Caylor, Cleveland Daily Banner

Citizen: Milan Blake

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

February 21, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in a special called meeting on the above date at Cleveland High School in the commons, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

Four Architects made presentation to the Cleveland City School Board, City Council Members and the Science Focus Group Members for a science wing addition to Cleveland High School in the following order:

Downtown Design Studio of Cleveland, Tennessee

Upland Design Group, Inc. of Crossville, Tennessee

Perkins & Will of Atlanta, Georgia

Cope Associates of Knoxville, Tennessee

Each architectural firm presented their credentials, an estimate of the square footage they felt the project required, choices of placement for the addition to the high school and a rough estimate of cost per square foot. Each firm also stated approximately what their fee for the project would be.

When each presenter was finished, Chairman Dawn Robinson thanked each firm for their time and hard work in preparing for the evening.

Mrs. Sandy Martin thanked the presenters and the board and city council for coming to the presentation.

The meeting was adjourned at 815 p.m.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

February 11, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Dawn Robinson called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Evelyn Rockholt and second by Peggy Pesterfield.

In the first spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning recognized Lea Broussard, Special Education Teacher of the Year selected by the Pilot Club of Cleveland.

In the second spotlight, Principal Chuck Rockholt recognized 11^th grade student, Laura Hoffmann who has been accepted into the Governor’s School for the Arts.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Good News report from Cleveland City Schools.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Dr. Rick Denning presented the new Graduation Requirements effective with the 9^th grade class of 2009 – 2010. Board member Bill Brown made a motion that Dr. Denning and his staff complete a funding analysis for the costs that the new requirements will dictate and present that to the board at the August meeting. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion and the vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning shared the new state law regarding school booster groups requiring them to enter a written agreement with the school system and provide the school system with complete financial records on request. It was noted that Representative Kevin Brooks has informed Dr. Denning that he is submitting legislature to alter this law. As the law stands, booster groups would have two choices. Either they would have to file for tax exempt status or file for not-for-profit status.

Chairman Dawn Robinson shared some dates and places for future Board meetings. On March 1, 2008, at 8:00 a.m. the Board will meet at Lee University for a Board Retreat. On March 20, at 8:00 a.m. the Board will hold a special meeting to discuss the budget for next year. The meeting will be held in the Board Room at the Administrative Office Building. In June, July or August of 2008, the Board will host a workshop conducted by Ron Woody of CTAS. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen and seconded by Tom Cloud to accept the dates and places for future Board meetings. The vote was unanimous

Dr. Murl Dirksen reported on the science focus committee. After discussion regarding the charge to the Science Focus Committee and/or any future charges, a motion was made by Murl Dirksen that the Board’s Site (Building) Committee establish a regular meeting schedule to direct the Science Focus Committee and that the Science Focus Committee continue to meet and make recommendations to the Site Building Committee particularly on design, equipment and grant possibilities. The motion received a second from Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous. In further discussion it was stated that the board’s site building committee would continue to collaborate with the science focus group while making the final decisions.

It was decided by consensus that the Board of Education would meet on March 3, 2008, at 5:30 for a special called board meeting. The regular March meeting will be held on March 10.

The Board of Education voted on approval to advertise for Cleveland High School’s site survey bids. The motion was made by Bill Brown that the Board approve RFP’s for Cleveland High School’s site survey. Peggy Pesterfield seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Murl Dirksen made the motion to accept policy 1.800 School Calendar as changed on first reading. A second to the motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt. The vote was unanimous.

Murl Dirksen made the motion to accept policy 5.310 Vacations and Holidays as changed on first reading. A second to the motion was made by Tom Cloud. The vote was unanimous.

Shelly Copeland, Supervisor of Food Services reported to the Board on the status of insufficient funds checks written to Food Service for student lunches. The Board would like to hear back from Shelly at the next board meeting with a plan of exactly what steps would be taken to collect the funds and what could be done in lieu of using a collection company so that an acceptable but effective method can be put into place.

Peggy Pesterfield gave a report on the Tennessee Legislative Network. Peggy read some legislative changes and gave a brief description of the discussion of these laws.

Chairman Robinson announced her appointment of board members to committees.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:06 p.m.

CLEVELAND CITY SCHOOLS
CLEVELAND, TENNESSEE

January 14, 2008

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at Cleveland High School, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, Tonya Sprague of The People News, Greg Kaylor of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of December 10, 2007, and a revision to the minutes of October 8, 2007, were presented for approval. A motion to accept the minutes as written was made by Dawn Robinson with a second by Evelyn Rockholt.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Murl Dirksen and second by Dawn Robinson.

A motion to approve the regular agenda after an addition of number 14 and moving the presentation by Mayor Tom Rowland to the first spotlight was made by Dawn Robinson. The motion received a second by Murl Dirksen. The vote was unanimous.

In the first spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown introduced the Mayor of the City of Cleveland, Mr. Tom Rowland. Mayor Rowland presented a Proclamation declaring the week of January 20 – 26 as School Board week. The Board Members were each presented a basket of food from Cleveland City Schools in appreciation of their hard work and dedicated service.

In the second spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown recognized the TV Media Class from Cleveland High School. Mr. Steve Clariday introduced Jon Souders, who teaches the Media Class. Mr. Souders presented a video of the class projects and introduced several of the students who worked on the video.

In the third spotlight, Sherry Crye of the Chamber of Commerce discussed the Tennessee Scholars program and explained the qualifications and what the Scholars program did to help students entering college.

In the fourth spotlight, Chairman Brown presented Mr. Chuck Rockholt and Mr. Charlie Cogdill with an award from the TSSAA. The award was the TSSAA Citizenship and Sportsmanship Award for the school year 2006 – 2007.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Good News report from Cleveland City Schools.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Dr. Rick Denning removed his first item stating Cleveland High School no longer needed the position addressed in the board packet.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Annual Report and reported on highlights in the report.

Dr. Rick Denning gave a report on the Mayfield School construction budget and stated that the project came in under budget in the amount of approximately $275,606.00. Brenda Carson stated that all invoices have been paid.

Dr. Rick Denning reported on the status of the deeds for Blythe-Bower, Stuart and Cleveland High School. The deeds for these three facilities have been found.

The Board selected a School Calendar for school year 2008 – 2009 from three options. All Board members stated that the feedback they received from the community were in favor of option 2. Dr. Denning recommended option 2 from the feedback he received from the teachers. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approved calendar option 2. The motion received a second from Murl Dirksen. The vote was unanimous.

Policy 2.806, Bids and Quotations came before the Board on first reading. The recommendation was to delete the word "architect" from lines 30 and 36. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to approve the policy with these changes. The motion received a second from Dawn Robinson. The vote was unanimous.

Mrs. Sandy Moore, Co-chair of the Cleveland High School Science Focus Group reported on the progress made by the committee in obtaining lists of architects from across east Tennessee and Atlanta to present designs for a new science wing at Cleveland High School. The architects will visit CHS on Monday, January 22. Mrs. Moore than asked the Board to hold a special called meeting either on February 21st or 28^th to hear from the architects with their design ideas. The school board by general consent agreed to have a special called meeting on one of these two dates.

Mr. Paul Ramsey introduced Tamara Humphres who reported on the ESP and CLC programs. Tamara presented a power point showing the highlights from this years programs and gave a brief overview of what the programs are accomplishing and how the programs are set up.

The annual agenda was presented to the Board for approval. A motion was made by Max Carroll to approve the annual agenda. The motion received a second from Tom Cloud. The vote was unanimous

Mr. Max Carroll made an announcement that he would not be running for school board when his term expires later this year. Mr. Carroll said he was happy to have served as school board member for more than 25 years.

The Cleveland City School Board held its election of Board Officers. Chairman Bill Brown announced that he is not interested in being nominated for Chairman of the School Board. He stated that his time is needed in his law firm. Chairman Bill Brown then called for nominations of School Board Chairman.

Evelyn Rockholt nominated Dawn Robinson for the position of School Board Chairman. Murl Dirksen seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous. Dawn Robinson will be the Chairman of the Cleveland City School Board.

Chairman Bill Brown then called for nomination of Vice Chairman of the Cleveland City School Board. Max Carroll nominated Tom Cloud as Vice Chairman. Dawn Robinson seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous. Tom Cloud will be the Vice Chairman of the Cleveland City School Board.

Chairman Bill Brown then called for the nomination of Chairman Pro-Tem. Murl Dirksen nominated Peggy Pesterfield as Chairman Pro-Tem. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous. Peggy Pesterfield will be the Chairman Pro-Tem of the Cleveland City School Board.

Dr. Denning presented correspondence from Mr. Ron Woody of CTAS regarding a workshop on budgeting. The Board members recommended that the Chairman work with the County School Board, the City Council and the County Commission to set up a dinner meeting of at least 15 people. The session will be one to three hours in duration.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of November 5, 2007, were presented for approval. A motion to accept the minutes as written was made by Dawn Robinson with a second by Evelyn Rockholt.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Max Carroll and second by Peggy Pesterfield.

The regular agenda was unanimously approved after a motion to accept by Evelyn Rockholt and second by Murl Dirksen.

In the first spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown recognized the Girls Soccer Team from Cleveland High School for receiving the Best of Preps in Girls Soccer namely Emily Jones and Christina Bahn. Coach Byrd was recognized as being named Coach of the Year.

Chairman Bill Brown next recognized the Boys area Cross Country Team from Cleveland High School for receiving the Best of Preps in Boys Cross Country in the area namely Alex Stephens, Vance Griffith, Ben Stephens, Ian Ward and Haden York and Coach Casey Price as Coach of the Year

Chairman Bill Brown further recognized the Girls Volley Ball Team from Cleveland High School for receiving the Best of Preps in Girls Volley Ball in the area, namely Rachael Isom and Cacy Burtnett.

In the second spotlight, Coach Danny Wilson and Athletic Director Charlie Cogdill received the 2007 Scholarship Trophy on behalf of the Cleveland Football Team for Sportsmanship by the Southeast Football Officials Association. Mr. Randy Fairbanks presented the award.

In the third spotlight, Max Carroll was recognized for receiving the TSBA Quarter Century Club award.

In the fourth spotlight, Dawn Robinson was recognized for receiving the TSBA Scholars Circle Award for attaining more that 900 Boardsmanship points.

Dr. Rick Denning presented the Good News report from Cleveland City Schools.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Dr. Rick Denning made reference to the item in the board packet regarding new regulations for accountability. Dr. Denning stated that he just wanted the Board Members to be aware of the changes.

Chuck Rockholt, in the absence of Sandy Martin gave a report on the newly formed science focus committee and stated that they have met and are awaiting a charge from the Board of Education to begin their study.

Dr. Rick Denning presented three calendar options to the Board of Education explaining the differences between the three options. The Board will vote on the calendar at the January meeting in order to give the community a chance to review the options presented.

Chairman Bill Brown announced that Attorney Mike Sharpe has informed the Board that there are no deeds to the old Mayfield School Property and the Arnold Memorial School property. Mr. Sharpe has agreed after searching for a deed to the old Mayfield property to prepare a suit to quiet title in order to pass the property to Lee University. A motion was made by Bill Brown to approve hiring Mr. Mike Sharpe, Attorney at law to file a suit to quiet title to the old Mayfield School property. The motion was seconded by Max Carroll. The vote was unanimous

A lease agreement was attached to the letter from Attorney Mike Sharpe between Cleveland City Schools and Lee University allowing Lee University to take possession of the old Mayfield property for a sum of $1.00 for 120 days or until the title to the real property being purchased by Lee University is quieted by Bradley County Chancery Court. A motion was made by Max Carroll to approve the lease agreement. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Chairman Bill Brown announced the names of the members of the science focus group for Cleveland High School and education specifications of the science wing. The group is to report to the Board of Education with recommendations for the project. Also the group is to prepare and request RFPs for an architect. Those RFPs will be narrowed down and presented to the board. A motion to approve the science focus group committee and the charge to the committee was made by Dawn Robinson. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning gave an update on the Parker Street extension and bridge to the new Mayfield Property regarding permits for the project. The Board discussed putting a stay of action on obtaining permits until funds are obtained to complete the road and bridge. A motion was made by Dawn Robinson to put a stay of action on the obtaining permits until funds are available to complete the road and bridge project. Max Carroll seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Ann Culbreth gave a report on the school system’s annual report card. She stated that the administration is very happy with the report card this year. Mrs. Culbreth reviewed each section of the report and asked for questions from the Board.

Chairman Bill Brown announced that the item regarding retirement gifts would be taken off the agenda until funds are available.

The Board Members each reported on their experience at the Tennessee School Board Association Annual Conference.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of October 8, 2007, and special called meeting of November 1, 2007 were unanimously approved. A motion to accept the minutes as written was made by Dawn Robinson and received a second by Max Carroll.

The consent agenda was amended by takingout board policies 3.211 and 3.210 and adding them to item 6. The amended consent agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Max Carroll and second by Evelyn Rockholt.

The regular agenda was unanimously approved after adding a number 10, Report on Save our School Summers and number 11, Pre-K needs and number 12, Committee at Cleveland High School by motion of Dawn Robinson and second by Tom Cloud.

In the first spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown recognized Janis Kyser and her work with Civic Education.

In the second spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning announced Cleveland City Schools rating among the elite by parents in Tennessee Department of Education publication "Insider." The fall 2007 edition of Insider listed Cleveland City Schools among the top fifteen schools earning the "What Parents Want" award based on a survey conducted by the national education research firm SchoolMatch.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Board Policies 3.204, 4.301, 4.402 and 4.501 and 4.502 were recommended on first reading. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to accept these policies as written. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.210, Naming New Facilities, was recommended for change on second reading. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to accept the policy with another change by adding after the change already proposed "at the time of project." Murl Dirksen made a motion to change policy 3.210 as proposed. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.211, New Project Planning, was present on second reading with changes. A motion was made to make another change to the first paragraph by adding the words "by requesting proposals from qualified architects. The motion was made by Peggy Pesterfield and seconded by Murl Dirksen. The vote was unanimous.

Mrs. Kathy Stutzman President of the George R. Stuart Elementary School PTO addressed the Board of Education asking for funds matching the funds they are willing to spend for ActivBoards for Stuart School. A motion was made by Dawn Robinson to come up with the funds for three ActivBoards for Stuart School as soon as the growth money is available in January 2008. The motion was seconded by Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was six to one. (Bill Brown voted no.)

Ann Culbreth gave a brief report on the annual report card stating that Cleveland City Schools scored very well this year. Mrs. Culbreth went over the scores and answered questions posed by the board.

The announcement was made that the National School Board Association Annual Conference would be held in Orlando, Florida, March 29, 2008 – April 1, 2008. If you plan to attend the conference please contact Rea Bivens.

Dawn Robinson reported on the meeting held in Nashville regarding the Alternate Calendar "Save Our Summer" presented by parents from the State of Tennessee.

Cathy Goodman gave a report on the Pre-K assessment and explained the problem with not being able to fill the classes because of a 20-day waiting period of students who are not at-risk.

Chairman Bill Brown announced that he is appointing Dr. Murl Dirksen as the Board representative to the Science Focus Committee for Cleveland High School.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and Randall Higgins of Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Chairman Bill Brown congratulated Mrs. Dee Dee Finison, principal of Mayfield Elementary School on the first full week of classes at the new Mayfield School building.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of September 10, 2007, were unanimously approved after an amendment was made to the minutes. A motion to accept the minutes as amended was made by Dawn Robinson and received a second by Max Carroll.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Dawn Robinson and second by Tom Cloud.

The regular agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Evelyn Rockholt and second by Tom Cloud.

In the spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown recognized the show choir of Cleveland High School and congratulated them for being chosen to perform at the Tennessee School Board Associations annual convention.

The School Board also thanked board member and TSBA President Dawn Robinson for serving as the state school board association president this past year.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Board Policy 3.200 Buildings and Ground Management was presented for first reading. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to accept this policy as written. Max Carroll seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.205 Security was presented with changes for first reading. Murl Dirksen made a motion to change policy 3.205 as written. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.206 Community Use of School Facilities was present on first reading with changes. The motion to approve was made by Murl Dirksen and seconded by Tom Cloud. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.210 Naming Schools and Facilities was present on first reading with changes. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to accept the policy as written. A second to the motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.211 New Project Planning was presented on first reading with changes. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to accept the policy as written. Dawn Robinson seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.212 Involvement of Architects was presented on first reading. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to accept the policy as written. Dawn Robinson seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 3.402 Special Use of School Vehicles was presented on first reading. The board did not vote on changes to this policy. There were no changes made to this policy.

Board Policy 3.500 Food Service Management was presented on first reading. The board did not vote on changes to this policy. There were no changes made to this policy.

Mr. Steve Clariday presented an update on the graduation requirements with changes proposed by the department of education. Mr. Clariday stated that these changes were up for second reading in January 2008. Mr. Clariday stated that if these changes pass it would affect the 2008 – 2009 graduates.

Chairman Bill Brown complimented the local media for their coverage of the dedication and opening of the new Mayfield School building. Chairman Brown thanked the news media and said the board appreciates the coverage of this event. Chairman Brown and other board members also thanked Mrs. Dee Dee Finison for her patience and care during the moving and opening process of the new school.

Mrs. Christy Wells Reece addressed the Board of Education concerning handicap access to Raider Field at Cleveland High School. Mrs. Reece stated that she is unable in her wheel chair to have access to the home side of the field and therefore cannot view the band from the front when it performs at half time of football games. Murl Dirksen and Max Carroll stated that they felt the stadium accessibility should be studied.

Mrs. Jean Jordon, president of the Cleveland High School PTO addressed the Board of Education regarding the Science area. Mrs. Jordan asked that the Board have a plan for a new science department at Cleveland High School and that a design be drawn so that the Board of Education will know what the cost of a new science area will be.

Mr. Michael Kahrs and Mr. Chuck Rockholt presented the furniture and staffing needs of Cleveland High School due to student population growth.

A motion was made by Dawn Robinson and seconded by Murl Dirksen to hire three teachers at Cleveland High School for 100-day contracts. The vote was unanimous.

A motion was made by Peggy Pesterfield that the board purchase furniture for Cleveland High School and the funds be taken from the fund balance. Murl Dirksen seconded the motion. Discussion followed and an amendment to the motion was made by Peggy Pesterfield that the Board purchase enough chairs for the students to sit in. This motion was withdrawn. A third motion was made that the Board of Education spend $39,000 from fund balance as a last resort, if funds are not made available and that the Board will ask the City Council for $113,750 to buy new chairs and replace chairs that are undersized. A second to the motion was made by Murl Dirksen. The vote was unanimous.

The Board of Education reviewed its Capital Outlay Requests to the Cleveland City Council and made changes to the pending list putting items in order of priority at this time. A motion was made by Dawn Robinson to accept this new list to be present to the City Council. Max Carroll seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

The November Board of Education Meeting will be held on November 5, 2007.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:55 p.m.

September 10, 2007

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner and the Chattanooga Times Free Press were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:32 p.m.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of August 13, 2007, and the joint board meeting of July 23, 2007, were unanimously approved by motion of Evelyn Rockholt and second by Peggy Pesterfield.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Dawn Robinson and second by Murl Dirksen after moving 3C to the regular agenda and putting it as item 14 and moving items 14, 15 and 16 down. Also the fundraiser regarding the cappuccino machine was moved to item 12.

The regular agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Max Carroll and second by Murl Dirksen.

In the first spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown recognized the new teachers of Cleveland City Schools and thanked them for their choice to serve as a teacher. The new teachers were:

Tom Baker, Sharon Bass, Grace Blevans, Donnie Browning, Laura Browning, James David, Caleb Dawson, Danielle DeBusk, DeLisa Dismukes, Susan Dyer, Melinda Gamble, Jennifer Garrott, Malinda Gobble, Catherine Gonzales, Lana Green, Kristina Higgins, Laura Hudson, Jennifer Johnson, Nicolo Johnson, Sheila Jones, Alice Lockerman, Cheryl Matthews, Jason McGowan, Margaret Moore, Pamela Murphy, Drew Nelson, J.B. Robinson, Mandy Rominger, Jon Souders, Nathan Talley, Gregory Towe, Kurt Turner and Tina Varnell.

In the second spotlight Mr. Steve Clariday and Mr. Verlin Tucker announced that the Bio Diesel project team at Cleveland High School has been asked to do a workshop for the State Department of Education at their conference.

In the third spotlight Mrs. Kellye Bender and Mrs. Dee Dee Finison gave a slideshow presentation of the German Culture Camp they held this past summer at Arnold Memorial Elementary School.

In the fourth spotlight, Mrs. Wendy Benton gave a review of the grants provided through Allied Arts to teachers who wish to apply.

The Director of Schools gave the following updates:

Dr. Murl Dirksen brought board Policies 1.204, Board Member Development Opportunities, 1.301 Executive Committee and 1.405 Rules of Order to the board for discussion.

The board decided to review 1.204 Board Member Development Opportunities at its Retreat in November.

Board Policy 1.301 Executive Committee was reviewed and a motion was made by Dr. Murl Dirksen. Dawn Robinson seconded the motion. After some discussion, the motion and second were withdrawn.

Board Policy 1.405 Rules of Order was discussed. Murl Dirksen made a motion to approve the policy changes. The motion failed for lack of a second.

Board Policies: 1.800 School Calendar, 1.806 Advertising and Distribution of Materials and 6.317 Disciplinary Hearing Authority were presented for change on first reading.

Board Policy 1.800 School Calendar was approved on first reading after changes were made to delete lines 8 – 10 on page two and adding in it’s place "Spring Break will be coordinated with Bradley County Schools." A motion to approve the policy changes was made by Murl Dirksen. Dawn Robinson made a second to the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 1.806 Advertising and Distribution of Materials was approved on first reading by motion of Murl Dirksen and a second by Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policy 6.317 was approved on first reading after changes were made by taking line 10 from board policy 6.316 and inserting it on line 18 of page 1 of policy 6.317. The motion to approve was made by Dawn Robinson and seconded by Evelyn Rockholt. The vote was unanimous.

Board Policies 2.404 School Support Organizations, 3.205 Security, 3.401 Scheduling and Routing (Buses), 6.303 Interrogation and Searches, 6.308 Bus Conduct and 6.316 Suspension/Expulsion/Remand were presented for approval thru new Tennessee Legal Regulations.

Policy 2.404 School Support Organizations was deferred to the next board meeting so that Dr. Denning could check with the schools’ attorney for compliance.

Policy 3.205 was accepted on first reading by motion of Dawn Robinson and a second by Evelyn Rockholt. The vote was unanimous.

Policy 3.401 Scheduling and Routing was deferred to the next board meeting so that Dr. Denning could check with schools’ attorney.

Policy 6.303 Interrogations and Searches was accepted on first reading by motion of Evelyn Rockholt and second by Murl Dirksen. The vote was unanimous.

Policy 6.308 Bus Conduct was accepted as changed on first reading by motion of Max Carroll and second by Dawn Robinson. The vote was unanimous.

Policy 6.316 Suspension/Expulsion/Remand was accepted as changed on first reading by motion of Murl Dirksen and second by Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous.

Policies for review in October are Section 3, Support Services.

The Board of Education approved a resolution in support of "K-12 Lottery Capital Outlay Special Account." A motion to accept the motion was made by Max Carroll and seconded by Peggy Pesterfield. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Denning gave an update on the detailed report on Adequate Yearly Progress. He announced the Ms. Bobbie Colquitt has been assigned by the Department of Education to assist Cleveland Middle School in its NCLB math testing scores.

Jeff Elliott, Principal of Cleveland Middle School presented a proposed program at Cleveland Middle School to give at risk students an intense academic, social, emotional and family support course twice a week from 2:30 – 4:30. Each class will have a break after school and a snack and then some intense study. A motion was made by Dawn Robinson to approve the program referred to as "Rockets." Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning recommended that the nature trail behind Cleveland Middle School be made a part of the Greenway Network and be named the Dr. Ashley Smith Educational Center. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to approve the naming of the nature trail to Dr. Ashley Smith Educational Center. Tom Cloud made a second. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning recommended the board of education approve using the $35,000 from the original Cleveland Education Foundation being held by the Bradley/Cleveland Public Education Foundation and $5,000 of the Wetland Project to fund the purchase of furniture for the Cleveland High School library. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the transfer of funds from the Bradley/Cleveland Education Public Education Foundation and the Wetland Project to fund the Cleveland High School library furniture purchase. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote unanimous.

Principal Chuck Rockholt proposed a fundraiser for the Renaissance Club at Cleveland City Schools selling cappuccino. A motion was made by Dawn Robinson and seconded by Evelyn Rockholt. The vote passed five to two. Murl Dirksen refrained from voting and Tom Cloud voted no

The Board of Education had a recommendation from the July Board meeting to rename Blythe-Bower Elementary School to T. C. Bower Elementary School. Max Carroll recommended that the Board put off voting on this name change. The Chairman of the Board asked for a motion regarding a name change for Blythe-Bower School. No motion was made.

The Board discussed a field trip to Washington D.C. by the English II class. A motion was made by Dawn Robinson to approve this field trip. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was six to one. Murl Dirksen voted no.

Two retreat dates were planned for the Board of Education. The first date is Wednesday, September 26, 2007, at 5:30 in the Boardroom at the Administrative Office Building. The agenda is to discuss Baldridge certification. The second retreat date is in Nashville on November 10^th during the TSBA Annual Convention. The time and place will be announced at a future time.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

August 13, 2007

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at George R. Stuart Elementary School, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News, Randall Higgins of the Chattanooga Times Free Press and David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:36.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of July 9, 2007, were unanimously approved by motion of Max Carroll and second by Tom Cloud.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Peggy Pesterfield and second by Murl Dirksen.

The regular agenda was unanimously approved with a motion by Evelyn Rockholt and a second by Max Carroll after adding a spotlight, Recognition of Ann Culbreth. By adding three items to Section 5, Air Condition Concerns, Bands of America and New Regulation Code; and an item before Item 12, making Item 12 Item 13.

In the first spotlight, Chairman Bill Brown recognized all teachers receiving tenure and presenting each teacher with a certificate. The teachers receiving tenure were: Sheron Brand, Rebecca Marino, Kim Foxworth, Ethel Cooper, Angela Gardner, Rachel Sampson, Adrienne White, Margie Clariday, Rebecca Lay, Angela Smith, Janis Brannen, John Brose, Yashema Davis, Jennifer Galloway, Kelly Kiser, Louise Riggins, Matt Rodante, Anisa Adams, Rachel Dooley, Valerie Raines, Abby Lamb, Andrea Riggins and Seth LaMagna

In the second spotlight, the following retired teachers were presented with rocking chairs: Jean Brandon, Diana Lombard, Marquis Dotson, Jennifer Taylor, Sherry Hogue, Lois Wyche and Marie Melton.

In the third spotlight, Dr. Rick Denning recognized Mrs. Ann Culbreth and presented her with a 35 years of service pin.

Director Rick Denning gave the following updates:

Dr. Denning gave an update on the Mayfield Elementary School project and read a letter from David Frazier, construction manager with D. F. Chase, Inc. to Mr. Daryle Roche, of Action Outfitters regarding the cabinet construction and installation. Dr. Denning announced the delay of two more weeks from September 4 to September 17 to move into the new Mayfield School building.

Mr. Larry Payne gave a report on the progress of the football stadium and track at Cleveland High School stating that paving and fencing will be completed by next Tuesday, August 21.

Dr. Denning stated that there was nothing new to report on the Parker Street access road project.

Dr. Denning reported that the principals of the elementary schools meet after registration regarding zoning and decided to follow board policy to prevent overcrowding.

Larry Payne gave an update on attendance for the beginning of school after the first three days. Arnold Memorial Elementary School has three kindergartens this year instead of two requesting additional funds for a teachers’ assistance at Arnold Memorial Elementary School. Murl Dirksen made a motion to add a teachers’ assistant at Arnold Memorial Elementary School. Max Carroll seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning addressed the issue of air conditioning problems in many of the schools. He stated that everyone is aware of the heat and draught problems in our area and he has called off athletic practices outside in the afternoon and no scrimmages until after 7:00 p.m. He stated that he has received concerns from Arnold School parents about the temperature of the rooms at Arnold. The cooling tower at Cleveland Middle School is being installed and should be complete in two weeks.

Dr. Denning announced that the Bands of America competition has been canceled by Bands of America.

Dr. Denning announced personnel changes, Kelly Kiser is appointed as Administrator in Training and Randall Stephens has been appointed as Vice Principal at Cleveland Middle School.

Shelly Copeland announced that the company who won the produce bid, I J Company has backed out of the bid and she will be calling for a new bid within the month.

Peggy Pesterfield introduced Tricia King of the Southeast Region of Land Trust Tennessee who presented a power point presentation regarding local produce farms and how they can provide produce to local school systems.

Debby Torres discussed Component 5 of the Strategic Plan stated that early this year, in May she submitted the strategic plan and received a report back with suggestions that some changes be made to the plan. She added an additional goal action plan and presented it to the board for review. She asked the Board for questions regarding that plan.

Dr. Denning gave the AYP results to the Board and discussed the annual proficiency goals and benchmark goals for No Child Left Behind stating that every three years it is kicked up a notch. He presented a handout showing the AYP results. Chairman Bill Brown stated that he was concerned about Math and Science. Jeff Elliott explained the plan Cleveland Middle School has to take action to improve the math test scores.

Mr. David Kelley of Family Resource Agency gave an update on the Pre-K program for Bradley County and Cleveland City Schools. He showed a power point presentation giving an idea of what is accomplished at the Pre-K level of education. Mr. Kelley also announced that the program is running out of classrooms and a couple of our classes are up in the air as to where to house them. He stated that he has been discussing this issue with Cleveland State Community College and Lee University.

Board Policy 6.317 Student Disciplinary Hearing Authority was presented for second reading. Dr. Denning presented a panel of administrators to sit on the Disciplinary Hearing Authority committee. Dr. Denning presented two panels, one each for semester one and semester two of the school year 2007 – 2008. Larry Payne will chair the first semester and Paul Ramsey will chair the second semester. Max Carroll made a motion to accept this policy as written with the DHA Committee Attachment. Tom Cloud seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

The Board discussed a request by the Bradley/Cleveland Public Education Foundation asking to designate part of the funds remaining in the old Cleveland City Schools Foundation to the Endowment Fund of the Bradley/Cleveland Public Education Foundation. The funds being held in the old foundation funds are in the amount of $39,481. The proposal is to commit $35,000 to the Endowment Fund with the remaining $4,481 to be used to support city teacher mini-grant requests. After some discussion, the Board decided to pass voting on this issue until the next board meeting asking Walter Presswood, Executive Director of the Bradley/Cleveland Public Education Foundation to speak on this subject.

The Board Chairman asked board members to discuss a Board Fall Retreat time. Tom Cloud suggested that the Board meeting on the Saturday before the TSBA Conference. Chairman Brown asked the Board members to take some time to discuss this among themselves and a decision will be made at the next Board meeting.

The TSBA Fall District meeting will be held in Bledsoe County on September 4. All board members who would like to attend will need to let Rea Bivens know so she can register them for the meeting.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m. by general consent.

July 9, 2007

The Cleveland Board of Education met in regular session on the above date at the Administrative Office Building, Cleveland, Tennessee. Members present were Bill Brown, Max Carroll, Tom Cloud, Murl Dirksen, Peggy Pesterfield, Dawn Robinson and Evelyn Rockholt. Meg Veal of the Bradley News and Randall Higgins of the Chattanooga Times Free Press and David Davis of the Cleveland Daily Banner were in attendance. There were several staff members and other guests present.

Chairman Bill Brown called the meeting to order at 5:35.

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The minutes of the regular Board meeting of June 22, 2007, were unanimously approved by motion of Dawn Robinson and second by Tom Cloud.

The consent agenda was unanimously approved by motion of Max Carroll and second by Peggy Pesterfield after taking 3B off and moving to item number 14.

The regular agenda was unanimously approved with a motion by Evelyn Rockholt and a second by Murl Dirksen.

In the first spotlight, Representative Kevin Brooks and State Senator Dewayne Bunch recognized Barabra Ector for receiving the Distinquished American Teacher Award, being one of three in the nation. Representative Brooks and Senator Bunch also recognized Leneda Laing for receiving National Recognition in teaching Math. Each teacher was presented with a Resolution from the House of Representatives noting their accomplishment.

In the second spotlight, Steve Clariday announced a new grant in vocational technology for the engineering program at Cleveland High School in excess of $62,000.00

Director Rick Denning gave the following updates:

Dr. Denning stated that the new Mayfield School building is being built as quickly as possible. He stated that the Construction Manager would announce the move-in date in a few weeks. They have informed him that it is too early to specify a date at this time.

Max Carroll announced that there would be a Site Committee Meeting on Thursday, July 23, at 1:00 p.m.

Dr. Denning asked Larry Payne to give an update on the Cleveland High School Football Field and Track project. Mr. Payne handed out a new cost summary of the tract project. Chairman Brown stated that the cost of having to reconstruct the track shows you that when you develop properly to start with, it saves taxpayers money in the long run.

Dr. Denning reported on the Parker Street connection road to the Fillauer property stating that there is no new information since Jason Hester’s report at the last school board meeting. Peggy Pesterfield recommended an alternate engineer come to tell the school board if the plan for the bridge is proper size and not being built larger than necessary. Murl Dirksen suggested that the site committee begin to meet weekly. He stated that the board has a lot of questions and there is not enough time during the regular board meetings to discuss them all.

Chairman Bill Brown opened discussion regarding Policy 6.317 Student Disciplinary Hearing Authority. Chairman Brown stated that the Board of Education is being taken out of the DHA and there cannot be more certified staff on the DHA than there are board members, being seven. It was suggested by the School Board’s Attorney, Chuck Cagle that the Board of Education designate the people to be put on the panel of potential employees to sit on the DHA. Dr. Denning stated that he would like more time to come back the Board with a list of staff members he would like to see considered for the panel. It was decided that the panel would serve for one year. The Board of Education decided to table the vote on this policy until the August 13 school board meeting.

Shelly Copeland gave an update on the Child Nutrition Plan. She stated that some new foods are being considered. The theme for this program is "Go the Extra Smile." Shelly handed out a survey regarding the plan and stated that there was some good news and some bad. She added that 48% of children get their activity outside of the school atmosphere.

Doug Green announced a new position being considered and asked the Board to vote on it. The position is for a Learning Support Specialist, which will be funded by the Safe Schools Healthy Students grant. This position is to assist in the extreme behavior problem student. The specialist will work with the classroom teachers. Dawn Robinson made a motion to approve the Learning Support Specialist Position if it can be worked into the budget. Max Carroll seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Dr. Rick Denning presented for approval the 2007 – 2008 budget. Dr. Denning made a recommendation for a salary increase of 5% and an additional $200,000 for technology, unlimited Success Maker licenses, additional reading books for guided reading, a Math consultant, one guidance counselor for the Teen Learning Center, one special education teacher, one attendance position, one computer lab teacher’s assistant at Yates Primary School and two additional teaching positions if needed. Dr. Denning announced the Coordinated School Health Grant to be housed at Blythe-Bower Elementary School and a grant secured by Representative Kevin Brooks from Community Enhancement and a grant from Brenda Lawson for the high school library. Tom Cloud made a motion to accept the 2007 – 2008 Budget. Evelyn Rockholt seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Ann Culbreth asked that the presentation of Component 5 – Strategic Plan be postponed until the August 13, 2007 board meeting after she has received official information of Adequate Yearly Progress.

Doug Greene presented the plans for the addition to the Cleveland High School Wrestling Building. Mr. Greene had provided a copy of the plan in the board packets. A motion was made by Evelyn Rockholt to approve the addition to the Wrestling Building. Dawn Robinson seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

Mr. Max Carroll asked the School Board to consider changing the name of Blythe-Bower Elementary School to T. C. Bower Elementary School. After some discussion it was decided that the principal and teachers should discuss the cost involved in making the name change and bring this information back to the school board for more discussion. Also, the board of education would like time to get feedback from the community regarding this proposed name change. The Board decided to postpone the discussion of a name change until the September 10, 2007 board of education meeting so that the PTO can have an opportunity to meet with the community on this issue.

Chairman Bill Brown asked that the Board of Education members to make recommendations for nominees for the TSBA media award. He stated that if you have a recommendation send it to him.

Mr. Chuck Rockholt informed the Board of Education that the list of school fees for Cleveland High School provided in the board packets was incorrect. He stated the drivers’ education fee has increased and a new fee for physical education uniforms in the amount of $10.00 has been added. A motion was made by Murl Dirksen to approve the school fees including the changes made by Mr. Rockholt. Dawn Robinson seconded the motion. The vote was unanimous.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:37 p.m. by general consent.