M1 - Santa Cruz County Office of Education

Santa Cruz County Board of Education
Regular Board Meeting
Santa Cruz County Office of Education March 15, 2012
400 Encinal Street Time: 2:00 p.m.
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Board Room
APPROVED MINUTES
1.0 ROLL CALL AND ESTABLISHMENT OF QUORUM
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Mr. Jack Dilles
Mr. Aaron Hinde
Mr. Arnold Levine
Ms. Gina Locatelli
Mr. Vic Marani
Mr. Dana M. Sales
Mr. George “Bud” Winslow
Board Present
Jack Dilles
Aaron Hinde
Arnold Levine (President)
Gina Locatelli
Vic Marani
Dana Sales
George “Bud” Winslow
Michael Watkins, Secretary
Staff Present
Mary Hart
Bryan Wall
Theresa Rouse
Cindy O’Conner
Mark Hodges
Jim Howes
Jean Gardner
Kyle Rucker
2.0 PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Superintendent Watkins led the Pledge of Allegiance.
3.0 APPROVAL OF AGENDA
It was M.S.C. (Sales/Locatelli) to approve the agenda after removing item 9.1
Ayes: Unanimous Action# 887
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
4.0 REMARKS FROM THE AUDIENCE
Brian King, President of Cabrillo College, thanked the Board for their
support of the Santa Cruz College Commitment, noting there has already
been a one million dollar donation. President King added that every district
in the county is working together on a common goal, and that the SCCOE
has been a vital player.
Melinda Silverstein of Cabrillo College thanked the SCCOE for funding the
feasibility study for College Commitment, stating the study made the difference
in the project moving forward.
JoAnn Allen, Manager, Student Support Services, informed the Board about
efforts to raise funds for summer youth employment, which includes an
upcoming talent show.
Suz Howells addressed the Board, informing them that the window for
the 2012 Eddy awards was currently open and accepting nominations through
April 4, 2012, with awards being presented at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center on
May 1, 2012. She also noted that April 21 st there will be a youth program to
support music at the Rio Theater.

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Approved Minutes, Regular Meeting
March 15, 2012
Trustee Dilles reminded the Board and audience about the upcoming
Scrabble Tournament, to take place at the Santa Cruz Law Library. Proceeds
from the tournament benefit the SCCOE Teen Peer Court Program.
5.0 CONSENT AGENDA
5.0.1 Minutes of Board Meeting of February 16, 2012
5.0.2 Donations
5.0.3 Routine Budget Revisions
It was M.S.C. (Marani/Sales) to approve the consent agenda as submitted.
Ayes: Unanimous Action# 888
Nays: None
Abstain: None
Absent: None
5.1 DEFERRED CONSENT ITEMS (if required)
There were no items placed on the consent agenda.
6.0 CORRESPONDENCE
George Wylie, San Lorenzo Valley School Board member, addressed the Board
regarding correspondence received regarding Pacific Collegiate School (PCS)
and plans to begin a separate non-profit organization that would benefit PCS and
potentially purchase facilities to house the school. Mr. Wylie noted there appeared
to be a fundamental shift with monies at PCS, and added that, as the chartering authority,
this Board should be alarmed.
Suz Howells addressed the Board regarding donations to PCS. Ms. Howells
stated that the current PCS reserves are largely comprised of donations received
from families. She stated that there should be transparency or disclosure of
what donations will be used for and that if PCS is staging a capital campaign,
then that should be disclosed.
Trustee Winslow recommended the SCCOE attorney review the matter to
determine if the SCCOE is subject to liability as the chartering authority.
Trustee Dilles stated he would want to know what would happen to facilities
belonging to a non-profit organization if there were to be a dissolution of
the charter, noting he understands PCS trying to gain control of their
facilities to secure stability in the future.
George Wylie addressed the Board a second time, stating he believed a letter
sent to parents of PCS students soliciting donations did not accurately state
purpose of the donations.
7.0 UNFINISHED BUSINESS
There was no unfinished business to discuss.
8.0 NEW BUSINESS and ACTION ITEMS
There are no new business or action items.

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9.0 REPORTS/DISCUSSION/INFORMATION ITEMS
9.1 Discussion on Potential Contract with California Consulting
Services for the Santa Cruz County Office of Education and
County School Districts
This item was removed from the agenda.
9.2 Program Reports: Regional Occupational Programs and
Your Future Is Our Business
The Board received reports highlighting the Regional Occupational
Program and Your Future Is Our Business, which partner to provide
Career and Technical Education to Santa Cruz County students.
Mark Hodges, Senior Director of ROP reported that ROP has been serving
Santa Cruz County schools since 1968 and currently has programs at 23 sites
throughout the county. Mr. Hodges noted that career technical education is
the evolution of vocational education.
Following a video created by students highlighting ROP opportunities,
Mr. Hodges responded to Trustee Locatelli’s question about adding classes
in the future, noting funding is a challenge, but that classes may be replaced
based on current needs and labor markets.
Shareen Bell, Executive Director of Your Future Is Our Business explained
her organizations role is to expose every middle school and high school
student to career panel presentations so students have an opportunity to
meet professionals and get a clear picture of what jobs are like.
9.3 Dissolution of Redevelopment Agencies
Mary Jo Walker, Auditor-Controller, Santa Cruz County, provided an
overview of the dissolution of redevelopment agencies.
9.4 Santa Cruz County Office of Education, 2011-12 Second
Interim Budget Report
Mary Hart, Associate Superintendent/CBO presented the second
interim budget report as required by E.C. 1240(j), noting that the
budget had a positive certification.
9.5 Discussion Related to Students Providing In-home Care for Relatives
Trustee Winslow led a discussion related to students not attending
school to provide in-home care for relatives, noting that when students
are not in school average daily attendance (ADA) is lost.
Superintendent Watkins noted there are three School Attendance Review
Boards (SARB): one in the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, one in
the Santa Cruz City School District and one at the Santa Cruz County
Office of Education. Mr. Watkins explained the process is for schools
to refer truant students to their SARB. Student’s attendance should be
monitored by their school district first, and that if cases are not brought
to our attention it is very difficult to follow-up on.
Bryan Wall, Deputy Superintendent, reported that there have been no
referrals of students being truant due to caring for a relative.

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Superintendent Watkins added that there are many opportunities for
students to receive an education, including independent studies and
online course options.
Theresa Rouse, Associate Superintendent, stated that staff does
meet with families of referred cases and concurred with Mr. Wall that
there have been no referrals of students not attending school to care for a
relative.
9.6 Superintendent’s Report
Superintendent Watkins reported on activities and matters of interest that have occurred since
his report of February 16, 2012:
S4C Committee Meeting
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education contributed $20,000 to support a feasibility study
to determine funding of the S4C College Promise program with a resulting first contribution
of $1,000,000 towards the goals of the consortium. Superintendent Watkins met earlier today
with Brian King to continue the discussion on funding.
California Association of African American Adminstrators
Superintendent Watkins attended the annual conference for the California Association of
African American Administrators and moderated a panel discussion on new ESEA
Legislation and its Impact on African American Students in California. The panel included
Congressman George Miller, Dr. LaRuth Grey of New York University, Carrie Jasper from
the U. S. Department of Education and Charles Love of the office of Civil Rights. As well,
Superintendent Watkins was honored with the “Sounding the Bell Award” at the Education is
a Civil Rights Awards Gala. As we ensure the rights for students of color, we ensure the
rights for all students to receive a quality education as we look for qualified teachers for all
our schools.
State Budget
The initiative process is ever evolving with the Governor and the California Teachers
Association now working together to redefine his initiative instead of submitting an opposing
initiative on the November ballot. At this point, we should have only two opposing initiatives
on the ballot instead of the former three. CCSESA has opted to endorse the Governor’s
initiative pending ratification by the general membership.
Santa Cruz City Adult Education Funding
Prior to suspending funding of district programs and proposals, funding of $100,000 was
approved in support of the Adult Education Program at Santa Cruz City Schools for the next
school year. This will be the third year the Santa Cruz County Office of Education has
provided funding to Santa Cruz City Schools for this program.
District Mapping
According to Ed. Code, our office should have not only maps of the districts but also
descriptions of the boundaries. Superintendent Watkins met with Bill Barr who assisted with
redrawing our trustee areas to submit a proposal to meet the Ed. Code requirements. (Ed.
Code attached)
Legislative Committee
At the request of Leon Beauchman, trustee at the Santa Clara County Office of Education, I
participated in a panel testifying to a legislative committee requested by Assembly Member
Nora Campos of San Jose on preservation of court school funding. The weighted pupil
formula is playing havoc with funding for many programs several of which are run through
county offices of education.

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Senator Joe Simitian, Assembly Member Luis Alejo, and State Superintendent
Torlakson
While in Sacramento on other business, Superintendent Watkins took the opportunity to meet
with State Senator Joe Simitian and California State Assembly Member Luis Alejo to share
concerns with proposed budget cuts in the Governor’s budget proposal. I also met with State
Superintendent Tom Torlakson regarding current developments in education.
Migrant Headstart – Opportunities
Our office participated in a videoconference with the members of our JPA (Joint Powers
Association) in regards to expanding our program. We now have the capacity to expand our
program to serve another 42 families. The program has been growing over the past couple
years allowing us to reach more of our vulnerable youngsters and give them a foundation for
their early school years.
Foster Youth Programs
Through a partnership with National Center for Youth Law, our commitment to programs
serving foster youth is expanding. The program will work to improve communication and
data-sharing between county child welfare agencies, the county office of education and
school districts thereby providing a more stable and supportive environment for foster youth.
Alternative Education for Elementary Student
At her request, Superintendent Watkins met with Dorma Baker, Superintendent of Pajaro
Valley Unified, in regards to the emerging need for alternative education resources for
elementary students that may need a variety of educational settings not currently available.
We will be exploring the possibilities further and may expand our services to meet these new
needs in our community.
Credit Recovery Summer School
Our Alternative Education Department will once again provide a Credit Recovery Summer
School for all high school students countywide. Last year, we had approximately 1000
students take advantage of this service with at least half coming from other high schools.
YouthBuild Project
We are partnering with Habitat for Humanity to submit a grant proposal under the
Department of Labor’s YouthBuild Program to have our students work with Habitat building
homes. There will be a training component, a strong connection with our school youth, and a
clear path towards possible apprenticeships and eventual jobs in the construction industry.
The grant will provide $700,000 to $1.1 million for 3.3 years.
399 Encinal
Suggested uses for the new building at 399 Encinal include:
Career and Assessment center
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math Center (STEM)
826 Writing Project (tutoring & mentoring of students)
Support Expanding Programs, i.e. Migrant Headstart, Alternative Education, Foster
Youth Services, Student Support Services
School Resource Officer
Education Resource Center
Volunteer Recruitment Center & Parent Education Center
Brown Act and Conflict of Interest Workshop
Approximately 20 people attended the workshop presented by Margaret Merchat. The
feedback was very positive.

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Approved Minutes, Regular Meeting
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center/Save Our Shores
At the request of Fred Keeley, Superintendent Watkins attended a fundraiser for the
Sanctuary Exploration Center under construction near the Boardwalk. When completed, this
will be a great resource for schools as well as educating visitors to Santa Cruz on the
sanctuary. He also met with Laura Kasa of Save Our Shores to talk about their marine
education classes covering everything from plastic pollution to ocean currents and
stewardship of our resources.
Santa Cruz Symphony Youth Performances
The Santa Cruz County Office of Education once again this year assisted in the support of the
youth performances of the Santa Cruz County Symphony. The symphony does several
performances at the Civic Auditorium with children coming from throughout County schools
to listen to the music and learn about the instruments used in the performances. We received
a wonderful letter of appreciation from one of the students.
Classified Staff Development
Between 24 and 28 classified employees have been attending the 8-month staff development
presented by the Corporate Development Department of Cabrillo College. Topics covered in
the monthly meetings include Building a Positive Workplace, Assertiveness, Building Trust
and Creative Problem Solving amongst others.
BASTA Quarterly Steering Committee Meeting
On February 29 th , the quarterly meeting of BASTA was held. The group was given updates
on the North and South County Operational Team meetings as well as updates from the
Sheriff’s office, probation and other law enforcement groups from throughout the county.
Read Across America
Superintendent Watkins had the honor to once again read to a group of fourth graders at San
Lorenzo Valley Elementary School for Read Across America in celebration of Dr. Suess’
birthday on March 2 nd . They were a wonderful audience.
Together for Kindergarten
More than 200 early educators, kindergarten teachers, and administrators from throughout the
county gathered to hear the keynote by Lupita Cortez Alcala, State Deputy Superintendent of
Schools and Camille Maben, Director of Child Development, California Department of
Education. They outlined the many cuts to child care in the Governor’s proposed budget.
Time was also allocated for Linda Brault, Project Director, WestEd to lead a discussion and
activities on Social Emotional Foundations for Early Learning. This unique event has been
lauded by the participants as preschool teachers are able to consult with kindergarten teachers
on preparing preschoolers for the kindergarten curriculum – an experience unique to our
county.
Gary Young Reception
At the invitation of Cowell Provost Faye Crosby, Superintendent Watkins attended the poetry
reading and book signing of Gary Young. Mr. Young was Santa Cruz County Poet Laureate
in 2010 and has worked with Poetry Santa Cruz and in the public schools.
Muscular Dystrophy “Arrest and Lock Up”
On March 28 th , Superintendent Watkins will go “behind bars” in the annual fundraiser in
support of the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s efforts to raise funds to send affected
children to camp.

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Miss Representation
Approximately 100 people attended the screening of Miss Representation, a documentary
focusing on the misrepresentations of women in positions of power and influence. It speaks
to the demeaning of women through the media and how to give young woman the power to
be themselves and not the image put forth through cultural constraints. There will be more
community screenings yet to be scheduled.
Criminal Justice Council
A retreat has been scheduled for the members of the Criminal Justice Council in order to elect
officers, define objectives, and make plans for the year.
First 5 Grant for Grade Level Reading
Due to our proven success of improved child outcomes in early education, California has
selected Santa Cruz County as one of the 16 counties out of 58 counties to participate in the
Race to the Top Early Learning Challenge Fund grant. Superintendent Watkins met with
Susan True, Director, First 5 and Mark Stone, Supervisor and Chair, First 5 to discuss the
grant being submitted by First 5 for $800,000 over four years to support quality
improvements, including those related to improving pre-literacy support and increasing
reading proficiency.
Santa Cruz Sentinel Editorial Board
Superintendent Watkins met with the Santa Cruz Sentinel Editorial Board consisting of
Editor Don Miller, Internet Director Mike Blaesser, Ceil Cirrillo - member of the public, and
reporter JM Brown. We discussed current developments in education.
Early Retirement Incentive
An early retirement incentive was offered to eligible employees. We have three teachers and
one administrator who took advantage of the program. Those positions will be evaluated as
to whether to re-fill or not. At the very least, it will save one full time equivalent.
Summer Youth Employment
This coming summer, we will be partnering with Work for Youth Summer Employment
Program, a grassroots non-profit championed by local businesses. The program’s impact will
be dictated by the donations received. The United Way has already donated $7,000 towards
the program. Solicitation of funding will continue through the spring with a youth talent
showcase on May 19 th. Flyers are provided at your seats – please share with others especially
any students who might want to participate in the talent show or anyone who might donate
directly to provide as many jobs for youth as possible.
Monthly Meetings
Special Education Coordinating Agency Education Coalition
Positive Discipline Board Meeting
Superintendents Council
United Way Board
Children’s Network Executive Committee
Tannery Board
CCSESA Board of Directors
Agenda Committee
CCSESA Executive Committee Meeting
CCSESA Legislative Committee Phone Conference
9.7 Trustee Reports
Trustee Marani noted that today nearly 130 teachers in Santa Cruz County received
layoff notices. In the past many notices have been rescinded, but with budget cuts, it is
unlikely that will be the case this year.
Trustee Hinde participated in Louie Walters’, ROP Sports Occupations teacher and
Scotts Valley Unified Athletic Director, advisory committee. He reported he enjoyed
talking with students and will participate in the job shadowing program.

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Trustee Sales also acknowledged the layoff notices sent to teachers and how
difficult it must be to be the recipient of such a notice, adding that it is disheartening
for the Pajaro Valley Unified School District, and that they have done this year after year.
Mr. Sales stated that he hopes there is at least an honest attempt to pass a true budget, which hasn’t
happened in the past ten years.
Trustee Dilles reported that he was a judge at the science fair, noting the students had
wonderful energy and were very composed. He also attended the Conflict of Interest/Brown Act
workshop, and as an individual, the parcel tax kick-off for the Scotts Valley Unified School District.
Trustee Dilles reported that he submitted his name to serve as treasurer of the California County
Boards of Education and was awaiting approval by their executive committee.
Trustee Winslow also attended the Conflict of Interest/Brown Act workshop and a meeting of
The Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom, where Deputy Superintendent Bryan Wall
spoke.
Trustee Locatelli attended the agenda committee meeting and met with Carole Mulford on the issue of
cuts to childcare programs. She also noted that she utilized the 2-1-1 resource on behalf of a friend
who was in need of assistance. Ms. Locatelli stated that she was very impressed with what they do to
assist people and added that is a great resource for our community.
Trustee Levine attended the College Commitment event at Cabrillo College. He also attended the
agenda committee meeting, the Conflict of Interest/Brown Act workshop, served as the Spell Master at
the annual Spelling Bee and was a judge at the Science Fair, held at the county fairgrounds.
10.0 AD HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS/ACTIONS (if any)
There were no ad hoc committee reports.
11.0 ADDITIONS, IF ANY, TO FUTURE BOARD AGENDA ITEMS
There were no future items added to the agenda.
12.0 SCHEDULE OF MEETINGS and COMING EVENTS
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Regular Meeting of the County Board of Education
2:00 p.m. Santa Cruz County Office of Education
(Please note: Second Thursday)
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Regular Meeting of the County Board of Education
1:00 p.m. Santa Cruz County Office of Education
(Please note: Earlier start time)
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Regular Meeting of the County Board of Education
2:00 p.m. Santa Cruz County Office of Education
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Regular Meeting of the County Board of Education
2:00 p.m. Santa Cruz County Office of Education
13.0 ADJOURNMENT
President Levine adjourned the meeting at 4:50.
Respectfully Submitted
Michael C. Watkins, Secretary to the Board