Sycamore Board of Education - Sycamore Community Schools

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Sycamore Board of Education – Regular Meeting 6 June 20, 2012 Approval of 2013-2014 School Calendar Mr. Forsthoefel reviewed 3 options highlighting start and ending dates, winter break options and the impact of construction at Maple Dale. Mr. Mercurio moved, seconded by Mrs. Staubach to approve the school calendar for 2013-2014 school year as follows: 2013-2014 School Calendar Item #12-153
Sycamore Board of Education – Regular Meeting 7 June 20, 2012 Vote: Mr. Mercurio, aye; Mrs. Staubach, aye; Mrs. Adamec, aye; Mrs. Cole, aye; Mr. Richter, aye. Naming Facility Proposal – Sycamore High School Auditorium Dr. James noted that committees were convened to review two proposals in line with the Board’s policy FF- Naming New Facilities. Dr. James reviewed the proposal to name the Sycamore High School Auditorium in memory of Leslie Knotts, a long-time teacher and theater director at Sycamore High School. Ms. Knotts was instrumental in the direction of a program that developed actors who have performed on Broadway and in national touring companies. She played an integral part in designing the new theater. Students were her family. She began the Sycamore Theater Arts Group (STAG). Dr. James noted that the committee recommends maintaining the name of the auditorium. This was done to preserve the appreciation to the entire team that designed the theater and because the use of the theater is widespread through the building. There was also concern that the theater is no longer new and that renaming may set a precedent. Sue Kirkpatrick spoke in support of naming the theater in honor of Ms. Knotts. Ms. Knotts was a one in a million teacher of not only English and theater, but also public speaking, debate, creative writing and skills for living. She involved students in all aspects of the production and spent countless hours in support of the program. She involved parents. She taught students the value of community service. She described Ms. Knott’s involvement in the design of the theater, noting that for those involved it was the theater “that Leslie built.” Mrs. Kirkpatrick emphasized the accomplishments of Ms. Knotts’ students. (Note that the Board approved a resolution to allow Mrs. Kirkpatrick additional time to address the Board.) Steve Imhoff spoke in support of naming the theater for Ms. Knotts. She was a great role model, a hard worker and an integral part of Sycamore High School. Dennis Klasmeier spoke in support of naming the theater for Ms. Knotts. She was a phenomenal teacher. He expressed concern that the process may prohibit this from occurring and asked that the Board delay the decision. Tom Kirkpatrick spoke in support of naming the theater for Ms. Knotts. He expressed his opinion that the committee process is flawed and that parameters should be better defined. He asked that the Board delay the decision. Mr. Mercurio expressed concern about the policy and process and that the Board may want to revisit them. It was noted that Ms. Knotts will not be excluded from future consideration should the policy change. The Board may consider other ways to recognize exceptional contributions to the district.
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Sycamore Board of Education - Sycamore Community Schools

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