Work Session of Poland Board of Education held March 16, 2020

A Work Session of the Poland Board of Education was held on Monday, March 16, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at Union Elementary.

President, Mr. Riddle called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Pledge of Allegiance

Members present for roll call and answering their names were Ms. Colucci, Dr. Dinopoulos, Mr. Polis, Mr. Riddle and Mr. Warren
	
e Learning Experience Update

Mr. Janofa informed the Board that PolandÕs first day, March 16, 2020, due to unique circumstances as a result of the Coronavirus, of e learning, or digital platform education, was very successful.

Mr. Riddle - Welcomed guest in attendance and anyone live streaming this evening.  He explained the gratitude for the opportunity to broadcast the Board of Education work session meeting.

Mr. Zura Ð Explained that Mr. Janofa initiated the planning process with the Administrative team three weeks ago. Superintendent Janofa has made several communications to the Bulldog Community, Families and Staff as well as being interviewed on a live TV broadcast and radio broadcast. Zoom internet training and licenses have been purchased to assist teachers during this time.  Mr. Zura shared live chat so Board can visualize what our students/teachers are currently doing via the internet.  He showed sample lessons via google with teacherÕs team teaching using a classroom whiteboard - pre-recorded so students can access via google classroom at home.
	
Mr. Riddle Ð Mr. Riddle asked our technology team how many viewers there were explaining with this opportunity they could email mzura@polandschools.org and have be able to conduct a live chat with the Board at approximately 6:30 p.m.; - Currently 57 viewers.

DISCUSSION:
* Waiver Day - March 13, 2020 Ð Coronavirus Ð Mr. Janofa explained that official approval of the waiver day which was conducted on March 13, 2020 will be on the March 23, 2020 regular meeting agenda.  Mr. Janofa explained things are changing on a daily basis.   As of Friday, no students are permitted in the building; however, adults are permitted and the Poland Schools are open for business.
* North Property - Follow-up regarding potential lease - Mr. Janofa and Mrs. Muntean met with members from Western Reserve Fire District and discussed the space at North Elementary for potential lease.  Mr. Janofa provided a tour of the building.  Further discussions will be held once other entities have made a decision.
* Location of Regular/Work Sessions Ð Mr. Janofa presented the question as to how to have the availability to view future Board of Education meetings at various locations.  Mr. Janofa requested to take Board Action to move work sessions and BOE meeting to PSHS.    A brief discussion took place; this action will be approved at the next regular meeting.
* Consent Agenda - Mrs. Muntean explained the concept behind the ÒsampleÓ consent agenda which was provided for discussion.  She explained a consent agenda would allow the Board to conduct official school business in a more efficient manner.  The Board would have to take action in order to start using a new format.  It was suggested to have both a regular agenda as well as a consent agenda available for March 23, 2020 meeting.
* Memorandum of Understanding - Possible extended closing Ð Mr. Janofa explained that Memorandum of Understandings would more than likely need to be drafted for both the PEA and OAPSE Unions to have official action in regards to potential extended closing due to COVID19.  MOU's will be presented at a later date.
* Facilities - Forging Bulldog Future:  Board Action to Stop or Continue Plan? 

Mr. Riddle expressed that lengthy discussions at the last Board of Education meeting were held.  He also expressed the necessity to communicate to the public if the plan is moving forward or not.
Ms. Colucci Ð After more thought; on board with plan; however, does not want to see unoccupied buildings demolished.
      Mr. Polis - On board with plan.
Mr. Warren - On board with plan; however, would like to see some of the board discussion contingencies to take place.
      Dr. Dinopoulos - On board with original plan

Mr. Hann Ð Mr. Hann was present at the work session.  He explained the Facilities Committee had three (3) main objectives regarding the recommendation in which was presented; 1-educationally made sense, 2-financially made sense and 3-community supported
He added that himself along with other members of the facilities committee are willing to help in any way they can. 

A discussion was held to put the Forging the Bulldog Future Plan back on the agenda so the board can vote to proceed. Affirming the new board stands behind the current plan.  This recommendation will be on the March 23, 2020 board agenda.

At 6:30 p.m. the Board paused to see if any viewers had emailed in as directed earlier to communicate with the Board via live stream.  Mr. Zura explained one email was received from Elinor Zedaker; however, she was not available for live streaming.  Her email addressed to Members of the Board stated:
The Superintendent, Treasurer, and Administration have done an exemplary job of navigating the Poland School District through these extraordinarily challenging times, and thus continue the important education of our students. With appreciation, Elinor Zedaker.

* Facilities Ð Dobbins Roof Ð Mr. Janofa explained that after the board takes re-affirmation, the plan process will be put into motion.  Mr. Janofa wanted to express and clarify, the process to move students does not take place this summer, 2020, but next summer.  Drawings will be available at the next meeting and a plan is being devised to communicate with families so they understand the plan moving forward.  

Mr. Janofa explained the Stadium project is intended to start on May 27th; however, if the Governor were to cancel spring sports; we would not need to wait until May 27th.  The potential option to start the project earlier due to current circumstances may be a possibility.

* Posting - Facilities/Transportation Position Ð Mr. Janofa reminded the Board of Mr. AmeroÕs, Transportation Coordinator, upcoming retirement.  The Superintendent is recommending to combine the Transportation Coordinator position with a Directors of Operations Position and post the combined such position in order to see what caliber of individuals would be interested.  Discussion was held regarding the need to review qualifications and would the position require the individual to have CDL.  Authorization to post such position will be on the next board agenda.

INFORMATION:  
* Renewal Levy- Primary Election Tuesday, March 17th still on Ð Mr. Janofa explained as of Governor DeWineÕs press conference earlier today, the Primary Election is postponed until June 2, 2020.  After further discussion regarding his power to do so, it is unclear whether the election is being held or not.
* Levy Committee Treasurer- Jason V. McQuown ÐMr. McQuown was in attendance.  He met with the current Levy Committee Treasurer to complete necessary paperwork in order to take over as active Levy Committee Treasurer Ð The Board thanked Mr. McQuown for his willingness to serve in this capacity.
* Tentative District Literacy Timeline 2019-2025 Ð Mr. Janofa explained we have a group of about twenty-five (25), staff-wide engaged in the District Literacy.  There is currently a timeline in place through 2025 and our goal is to build the best literacy program in the State of Ohio.  Mr. Janofa praised staff for their participation in this literacy initiative.  

	At 6:55 p.m., Mr. Polis moved and Mrs. Colucci seconded with all members present signaling aye to enter into Executive Session to consider the appointment, employment, dismissal of a public employee or official.

	At 7:06 p.m., Mr. Polis moved and Mr. Warren seconded with all members present signaling aye to reconvene to work session and adjourn.
	 

Meeting adjourned.



_______________________________	___________________________________
Treasurer					President


3/16/2020
3/16/2020		2604