Minutes 5-28-13 - Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
The meeting of the Board of Education, School District 123, Cook County, Illinois, convened at 6:00
p.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 at the Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School, 5345 W. 99 th Street,
Oak Lawn, Illinois.
Members Present:
Members Absent:
Administrators Present:
Also Present:
Mr. Leifker, Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. DeRousse, Ms. Roche, Mr.
Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino
None
Dr. Fessler, Ms. Anderson and Mr. Loftin
Mr. Andersen, Mr. Grey
Roll call was taken with all members present and it was unanimously agreed to adjourn to closed
session for the purpose of discussing: the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline,
performance, or dismissal of specific employees of the public body 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(1); Discussion
of minutes of meetings lawfully closed under the Open Meetings Act, whether for purposes of
approval by the body of the minutes or semi-annual review of the minutes as mandated by Section
2.06. 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(21). Other matters relating to individual students. Student disciplinary cases.
5 ILCS 120/2(c)(9).
It was moved by Mr. Lurquin, seconded by Mr. Mason to return to open session. Closed session
discussions were completed at 6:55 p.m. and it was unanimously agreed to return to open session.
Open Session
The meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. and roll call was taken with all
members present.
The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
Mr. Sorrentino read the Mission Statement.
Public Comment
President Sorrentino stated that citizen comments are allowed at this time to
address the Board. Public comment will be limited to 15 minutes with each
person being limited to three minutes.
The PTA Council representative, presented Dr. Fessler with a gift for his
service in District 123.
Julie Misner read a statement, which expressed her desire as a past board
member, to present a diploma to her daughter during the OLHMS
graduation ceremony.
There were no additional speakers and President Sorrentino declared public
comment closed.
Recognition
The “One School, One Book" Project - The World According to Humphrey
was presented by the Hometown School teachers, Crystal Strelow, Katy
Tully, Maripat Coughlin, and Molly Rodriguez. Hometown School kicked
off a school-wide reading project in the Humphrey series about an
adventurous hamster. The teachers explained that each student was
challenged to read five chapters a week at home and then participated in
bringing in pet hamster photos, bookmark and writing contests, trivia
1

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
questions each Friday and assemblies. Students also participated in raffles,
prizes and reading themed baskets, which were donated to children in Hope
hospital.
Recognition
President’s
Report
Peggy Keiner, Technology Instructional Coach, introduced a 5 th grade student
who participated in the annual TECH 2013 Students for the Information
Age event on May 7, 2013 at the Illinois State Capitol Building in
Springfield. Students showcased the Illinois State Senate and the House of
Representatives with technology and how it is being used in classrooms to
improve student achievement. D123 focused on game-based learning and its
impact on instruction. The purpose of TECH 2013 is to raise awareness of the
role technology plays in preparing students to succeed in today’s world, and
to show the need for increased funding for classroom technology. The board
was treated to sample games that were created by our student.
President Sorrentino announced that Thursday, May 30, 2013 the Senior
Center will open in its new McGugan location. He invited board members, if
available to join him in the grand opening. He also stated that he looks
forward to a good working relationship with the Village of Oak Lawn.
Mr. Sorrentino acknowledged the careers of two staff members who will be
retiring at the end of this school year, Leanne DeHaan-McCarthy, Director of
Student Services and Anna Schultz, Principal of Hometown School.
Superintendent’s
Report
Superintendent Fessler shared:
• The “Make a Wish” video which, highlighted the support from OLHMS
families who have raised money for children with life threatening
medical conditions.
• The top fundraisers for the “Make a Wish” walk-a-thon were
treated to a downtown Chicago field trip to Google.
• Moody’s Rating was reviewed from the last meeting to answer questions
raised in regards to the district’s lower rating. Mr. Loftin explained
that with a lower rating the bonds would have to pay a higher rate
because there would be more risk. Mr. Loftin stated that if the district
were thinking of issuing debt, which it is not, then it would be prudent
to buy insurance. Other options to improve the district’s rating is to
appeal the rating, maintain a balanced budget and build the district’s
fund balance. The board requested a consultant that would educate
the board regarding bonds in a clear understandable way.
• Graduation will be at 7:00 pm on Friday, May 31, 2013 at OLHMS.
• The Ben Carson update was provided by Mr. Grey who stated the
foundation would be donating 20 Kindles along with physical
books for an electronic library in designated reading
rooms in each of the existing elementary libraries. Christ hospital is
donating $90,000 to this project.
• Summer Newsletter is scheduled to be mailed in mid June to all
District 123 residences. A draft of the newsletter will be forth coming.
• No FOIAs to report.
2

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
Mrs. McCarthy introduced the district’s new Director of Special Services, Ms. Cynthia Riha
to the Board stating she has been a dedicated special educator with 23 years of experience as
a special education teacher, a building administrator and special education supervisor.
Mr. Paul Enderle introduced the district’s new OLHMS principal Ms. Nicole Leggett, who will be
replacing Mr. Enderle as of July 1, 2013. Mr. Enderle also introduced the district’s new Chief
Information Officer, Joseph Macchia.
Consent Agenda
It was moved by Mr. Mason seconded by Mr. Nichols, to approve/adopt the Consent Agenda that
included the following items:
MINUTES
a Open Minutes of April 22, 2013
b Open Minutes of May 3, 2013
c Open Minutes of May 14, 2013
d Closed Minutes of April 22, 2013
e Closed Minutes of May 3, 2013
f Destruction of the following Closed Session Audio Recordings, as per
P.A. 93-523: June 20, 2011; July 26, 2011; August 22, 2011; September 26,
2011; October 24, 2011.
FINANCE
a
b
c
d
e
f
Approval of Bills
Summary of and Board Approved Payables by Fund
Imprest Fund-Category Summary Report
Fund Balances
Revenue Recap Summary
Expenditures Recap Summary
PERSONNEL
a. Certified Staff Recognitions
i. Janet Kennedy – BA degree in Communication Sciences and
Disorders from Saint Xavier University in 2003, a MA in
Speech-Language Pathology from University of Northern
Colorado, Greely in 2010. Assistive Technology Specialist
District-Wide for the 2013-2014 school year, effective 8/20/13
at a salary of $59,222. Replacement for Rose Chalil/resignation.
ii. Julie Carey – BS degree in Speech and Hearing Science from
University of Illinois in 2005, a MA in Communicative
Disorders from Northern Illinois University in 2007. Speech
Language Pathologist at Hometown for the 2013-2014 school
year, effective 8/20/13 at a salary of $61,693. Replacement for
Jule Philippon/ retirement.
3

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
iii. Nicole Leggett – BA degree in Elementary Education from
Loyola University in 2003, a MA in Education, Curriculum
and Instruction from Concordia University Chicago in 2005.
Type 75 Certification from Concordia University Chicago in
2007. Principal at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School for
the 2013-2014 school year, effective 7/1/13 at a salary of
$95,000. Replacement for Paul Enderle/ reclassification.
iv. Erica Flynn – BS degree in Elementary Education with Special
Ed Endorsement from Western Michigan University in 2004.
Early Childhood Special Education Teacher at Kolmar for the
2013-2014 school year, effective 8/20/13 at a salary of
$50,630. New position.
v. Joseph Macchia – BA degree in Media Communication from
Columbia College in 2001, a MA in Educational Leadership
from Concordia University in 2012. Chief Information
Officer District-Wide for the 2013-2014 school year, effective
7/1/13 at a salary of $90,000. Replacement for Ben
Grey/resignation.
b. Resignations
i. Kaitlin McGreal, Hannum Lunchroom Supervisor
ii. Paulette McNally, Hometown Instructional Aide
iii. Mark Behncke, District Sweeper
c. Reclassification of Staff
i. Brian Jurinek –Instructional Technology Coach for 6-7-8
Grade at Oak Lawn-Hometown Middle School for the 2013-
2014 school year. No change in salary.
ii. Paul Enderle – BA degree in Teacher Education from
Concordia University in 1992, a MA in School Administration
from Concordia University in 1998, and an Illinois Type 75
Certificate. Superintendent for Oak Lawn-Hometown SD123
for the 2013-2014 school year, effective 7/1/13 at a salary of
$140,000. Replacement for Arthur Fessler/resignation.
iii. Marie Omiecinski – Administrative Assistant for Human
Resources Specialist at District Office for the 2013-2014 school
year, effective 7/1/13 at a salary of $52,400. Salary based on
$25.19 per hour x 8 hours per day x 260 days. Replacement for
Mary Economakos/retirement.
iv. Jennifer Nolan - BA degree in Social Studies from DePaul
University in 2003. 8 th Grade Social Studies Teacher at Oak
Lawn-Hometown Middle School for the 2013-2014 school
year effective 8/20/13 at a salary of $50,630./Replacement for
Brian Jurinek/reclassification.
d. Extended Parental Leave
i. Kelly Kelly Hannum Kindergarten Teacher 2013-2014
4

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
e. Retirements
i. Kathryn Baldi Kolmar 4 th Gr Teacher 2017
ii. Lois Bruno Kolmar 6 h Gr Teacher 2013
iii. Paula Constantine Kolmar 5 th Gr Teacher 2017
iv. Connie Cronin Hannum 2 nd Gr Teacher 2016
v. Phyllis Eklin Sward PE Teacher 2017
vi. Joseph Fajman OLHMS 8 th Gr Teacher 2017
vii. Lori Gloodt Sward Principal 2017
viii. Jane Kneeland Speech Pathologist 2017
ix. Gerry Krull Bal.Literacy Curr. Facilitator 2017
x. Martha Lichtenberg Kolmar EC Teacher 2015
xi. Jean Madden Media Specialist 2015
xii. Susan Marcinkowski OLHMS 8th Gr Teacher 2017
xiii. Diane Merenda OLHMS 8th Gr Teacher 2017
xiv. Marilyn Nowak Kolmar 5 th Gr Teacher 2017
xv. Diane Ramsden Hannum PE Teacher 2015
xvi. Nancy Reilly Media Specialist 2017
xvii. Robert VanVossen DO Maintenance 2013
xviii. Ronald Wals Hometown Custodian 2013
xix. Olga Warner Kolmar Instruct Aide 2015
Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr. DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr.
Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Superintendent Fessler reviewed the Serious Safety Hazards in effect for the
2013-2014 school year.
It was moved by Mr. Lurquin, seconded by Mr. Leifker, to approve the Serious Safety Hazards in
effect for the 2013-2014 school year. Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr.
DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Dr. Fessler presented the classroom use agreement with the A.E.R.O. Special
Education Cooperative for the 2013-2014 school year at Sward and Kolmar
School. The agreement does not differ from last year.
It was moved by Mr. Nichols, seconded by Mr. Leifker, to approve the Classroom use agreement
with the A.E.R.O. Special Education Cooperative for the 2013-2014 school year at Sward and
Kolmar Schools. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr. DeRousse, Mr.
Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion: The Board discussed the second reading of select board policies: 4:15; 4:140;
4:170; 5:50; 5:260; 5:330; 6:170; 6:190; 6:220; 6:240; 7:790; 7:305; 8:20, noting only
a change in procedure involving policy 5:260.
It was moved by Mr. Lurquin, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to approve the second reading of select
board policies: 4:15; 4:140; 4:170; 5:50; 5:260; 5:330; 6:170; 6:190; 6:220; 6:240; 7:790; 7:305; 8:20.
Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr. DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr.
Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Mr. Loftin presented the paper bid for the 2013-2014 school year.
5

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
It was moved by Mr. Mason, seconded by Mr. Leifker, to approve the paper bid for the 2013-2014
school year. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr. DeRousse, Mr.
Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Assistant Superintendent Loftin reviewed the School Office Supplies Preferred
Vendors, 2013-2014.
It was moved by Mr. Nichols, seconded by Mr. Leifker, to approve the School Office Supplies
Preferred Vendors, 2013-2014. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr.
DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Superintendent Fessler asked the board to approve the Certified and
Noncertified CBA approval for 2013-2017 School Years. Once approved the
contracts can be sent for the final printing.
It was moved by Mr. Lurquin, seconded by Mr. Mason, to approve the Certified and Noncertified
CBA approval for 2013-2017 School Years. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker,
Ms. Roche, Mr. DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Assistant Superintendent Loftin explained the School Lunch 10 Cent Price
Increase - Equity in Pricing plan. He recommended that the board approve
the increase of ten cents to work toward the Federal government
recommendation.
It was moved by Mr. Mason, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to approve the School Lunch 10 Cent Price
Increase - Equity in Pricing. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr.
DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Mr. James Maciejewski, district architect reviewed the tuckpointing bids stating
that tuckpointing has been deferred the last couple of years. There were five
contractors that responded. Two companies, Bruno and Soumar Tuckpointing
were considered. Total duration of the project will be seven weeks, three weeks
at Kolmar School and four weeks at Covington School. Board member Roche
inquired if the district could separate the lower bids to coincide with the school.
Mr. Maciejewski advised the bid documents were not set up that way, but
if the request was the pleasure of the board he would inquire to see if the
companies would voluntarily change. He was directed by the board to do so.
A fifty thousand dollar grant will be applied to this project.
It was moved by Mr. Lurquin, seconded by Mr. Nichols, to approve the tuckpointing bid from the
lowest responsible bidder. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr.
DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Mr. James Maciejewski reviewed the lighting bids, which is largely for parking
lot and building fixtures. The contractor with the lowest bid, C&L Electrical
Supply is an Oak Lawn company. The installation will be done in-house.
It was moved by Mr. Mason seconded by Mr. Lurquin, to approve the lighting bid. Voting aye:
Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr. DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino.
Nay, none. The motion carried.
6

Discussion:
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
Mr. James Maciejewski reviewed the paving bids for McGugan, Brandt and
Gaddis Schools. There were five contractors with the lowest bid received from
Matthew Paving. $295,550 was the bid, which includes the removal of the
existing base and re-asphalting with a 2.5-inch binder and 1.5 surface on the
existing lots.
It was moved by Mr. Nichols, seconded by Mr. Mason, to approve the paving bids for McGugan,
Brandt and Gaddis Schools. Voting aye: Mr. Lurquin, Mr. Mason, Mr. Leifker, Ms. Roche, Mr.
DeRousse, Mr. Nichols, and Mr. Sorrentino. Nay, none. The motion carried.
Discussion:
Board Comments:
Mr. James Maciejewski reviewed and answered questions from the board
regarding the McGugan School parking lot expansion. Per Mr. Fetchko the
Park District has said they would provide assistance with heavy equipment to
move the baseball field and possible assistance with no commitment from Oak
Lawn Base Ball. Member Roche expressed concern about money spent on the
project such as moving the baseball fields when there is no benefit to the
district. Moving the fields could range between $11,000 and $75,000.
The options determined are as follows:
• Oak Lawn Baseball moves the east field and the district installs parking.
• Oak Lawn Baseball doesn’t move the east field and the district installs
parking.
• The Village pays to move the east ball field and the district installs
parking.
The Board determined that A3 was the better of all plans presented, which
leaves the option of moving the field back at a later date.
Dr. Fessler advised the board he would send a memo outlining the payment
information. He said the money would come from the operating fund with the
balance from the construction fund.
The board agreed to accept the Alternate #1 of widening of the NE drive at
McGugan for $6,662.00, Alternate #6 of additional parking area to the North of
the school for $40,000, and the recommendation that the contract award be
contingent on holding cost for Alternate #5 open for 30 days to allow
discussion with the hospital.
Member Roche spoke on the behalf of past board member Julie Misner
regarding her request to present her daughter with a diploma during the 8 th
grade graduation ceremony. Ms. Roche stated that this is a courtesy extended
in several higher education institutions and feels that because of Ms. Misner’s
past position and service the board should extend the offer. A discussion
ensued and after a straw poll it was determined that Mrs. Misner and former
member Lynn Jareczek would be able to present their children a diploma.
President Sorrentino asked that language be created to establish a policy or
procedure to read: Any board member that is unseated for reasons of
voluntary resignation or election proceedings will not be allowed to present a
diploma to their son or daughter during the 8 th grade graduation ceremony.
It was moved by Mr. Mason, seconded by Mr. Leifker to adjourn the meeting at 9:20 p.m. Roll call
vote was unanimous. The motion carried.
Adjourned - 9:20 p.m.
7

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING, MAY 28, 2013
The next regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held on June 24, 2013 at the Oak Lawn-
Hometown Middle School, 5345 W. 99 th St., Oak Lawn, Illinois.
_________________________________________
President
_________________________________________
Secretary
8