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SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

Board of Education Special Meeting

March 5, 2009

Ridgecrest City Council Chambers 100 West California Avenue

www.ssusd.org

A G E N D A

CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE TO THE FLAG 6:30 P.M. Amy Covert Judy Dietrichson William Farris Tim Johnson Tom Pearl Kurt Rockwell, Vice President/Clerk Michael Scott, President Joanna Rummer, Superintendent MOMENT OF SILENCE 1. ADOPTION OF AGENDA 2. CLOSED SESSION

The board will confer in closed session regarding non-reelection of one certificated em-ployee.

3. ADJOURNMENT

We, the members of the Board of Education of the Sierra Sands Unified School District, are committed to providing the highest quality education in a safe environment to all K-12 students. We believe the school shares with the family, church, and community the responsibility for developing life-long learners who are responsible, productive citizens.

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Board of Education Regular Meeting

March 5, 2009

Ridgecrest City Council Chambers 100 West California Avenue

www.ssusd.org

A G E N D A

CALL TO ORDER AND PLEDGE TO THE FLAG 7:00 P.M. Amy Covert Judy Dietrichson Bill Farris Tim Johnson Tom Pearl

Kurt Rockwell, Vice President/Clerk Michael Scott, President Student Member Hannah Ponek Joanna Rummer, Superintendent MOMENT OF SILENCE 1. ADOPTION OF AGENDA

Welcome to a meeting of the Board of Education. Because we believe you share our concern for the education of the youth of our community, we appreciate and welcome your participation. Copies of the agenda, along with a procedural handout, are available on the wall at the back of the room to assist with your participation in the meeting.

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES of the special meeting of February 11, 2009 and the regular

meeting of February 19, 2009 3. PROGRAMS AND PRESENTATIONS

Richmond Elementary School: Fifth Grade Field Trip and Campout in San Diego

4. PUBLIC HEARING

We, the members of the Board of Education of the Sierra Sands Unified School District, are committed to providing the highest quality education in a safe environment to all K-12 students. We believe the school shares with the family, church, and community the responsibility for developing life-long learners who are responsible, productive citizens.

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3/5/09 agenda

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5. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

5.1 Student Member's Report 5.2 Reports from Members of the Board 5.3 Superintendent's Report

• Budget update • Response to NAWS Solid Curtain Exercise • Other activities and items of interest

5.4 Communications

• Publications from schools

5.5 Communications from the public The board will provide time during the discussion of each agenda item for members of the public to comment. At this time, members of the public may address the board on an item not on the agenda. Comments should relate to items of public interest within the board’s jurisdiction. The law prohib-its the board from taking action on items not on the agenda. If appropriate, your comments will be referred to staff for response. When addressing the board, please state your name and address at the podium and limit your remarks to three minutes. In accordance with the board bylaws, the board will limit the total time for public input to 30 minutes. Those wishing to address the board beyond the 30-minute time limit may do so at the end of the scheduled meeting agenda.

6. EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION 7. POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND REVIEW 8. PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION

8.1 Certificated Employment, resignation, retirement, leave of absence, change of status, termination

8.2 Classified Employment, resignation, retirement, leave of absence, change of status, termination

8.3 Approval of Non-reelection of Certificated Personnel with Less than a Preliminary Credential as a Result of a Decision of the California Fifth District Court of Appeals

As a result of this court decision, legal counsel has advised the district to non-reelect certificated em-ployees with less than a preliminary credential in order to cause a break in service for these employees and thereby preserve the integrity of the district’s layoff seniority list.

8.4 Adoption of Resolution #33 0809, Reducing or Eliminating Certificated Services for the 2009-10 School Year

Adoption of this resolution will authorize reduction or elimination of certain certificated positions and directs the superintendent to determine which employees are to receive notice of layoff as a result of this service reduction.

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3/5/09 agenda

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8. PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION (continued)

8.5 Adoption of Resolution #34 0809, Determination of Seniority Among Certificated Em-ployees with the Same First Paid Date of Service

Adoption of this resolution identifies the specific criteria used in determining the order of termination between employees who first rendered service to the district on the same date.

8.6 Approval of Extension of Early Retirement Notification Incentive for 2008-09 Providing a financial incentive to those employees who provide the district with early notification of their intent to retire will assist the district in planning for and projecting staffing needs for next year.

9. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION 10. CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

10.1 Report to the Board: Measure “A” and Other Construction Activities and Issues (Goal #3, #4)

10.2 Approval of a Pre-construction Services Agreement between the Sierra Sands Unified School District and Barnhart, Inc. for Infrastructure and Parking at Burroughs High School (Goal #3, #4)

11. BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION 12. CONSENT CALENDAR

12.1 Approval of Out-of-State Travel for the Burroughs High School Music Students to

Participate in a Music Festival, Adjudication, and Clinic in Hawaii in March 2010 at No Expense to the District (Goal #2)

This trip provides many educational opportunities for students. Funding will be provided entirely by students and the music boosters organization. Substitute teachers will not be required as the trip takes place over the spring recess.

12.2 Authorization of Payment for Travel Expenses for Teachers at St. Ann’s School to Participate in a Staff Development Program Supported by Title IIA Funds (Goal #2)

12.3 Approval of Recommendation for Expulsion, Expulsion Case #12 0809

13. FUTURE AGENDA 14. ADJOURNMENT The next regular meeting of the Board of Education will be March 19, 2009. Any materials required by law to be made available to the public prior to a meeting of the Board of Education of the Sierra Sands Unified School District can be inspected during normal busi-ness hours at the district office located at 113 Felspar, Ridgecrest, CA. These materials can also be viewed on the district’s internet website at www.ssusd.org. Note: Individuals who require special accommodation, including but not limited to an American sign language interpreter, accessible seating or documentation in accessible formats, should contact the Superintendent’s Office at least two days before the meeting date.

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Minutes of the Special Meeting of the Board of Education

DATE OF MEETING: February 11, 2009 TIME OF MEETING: 5:15 p.m. PLACE OF MEETING: District Office Conference Room “A” MEMBERS PRESENT: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott MEMBERS ABSENT: Johnson STAFF PRESENT: Joanna Rummer, Superintendent PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited in unison, led by Mr. Rockwell. MOMENT OF SILENCE was observed. 1. ADOPTION OF AGENDA

With the deletion of item 2.2, the agenda was adopted by consensus as amended.

2. CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

2.1 Approval of the Terms and Conditions of the Site Lease, Lease-Leaseback, and Construction Management Agreements and Enabling Resolution #26 0809 Associated with Modernization of Pierce Elementary School (Goal #3, #4)

Following review and discussion, motion passed to approve the terms and conditions of the site lease, lease-leaseback, and construction agreements with Barnhart, Inc. and approving the enabling resolution #26 0809 associated with modernization of Pierce Elementary School. DIETRICHSON/COVERT AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

5. ADJOURNMENT was at 5:30 p.m.

THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

_________________________________________ ________________________________________ Kurt Rockwell, Vice President/Clerk Joanna Rummer, Secretary to Board recorder: Jane Brooks

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Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Board of Education

DATE OF MEETING: February 19, 2009 TIME OF MEETING: 7:00 p.m. PLACE OF MEETING: Ridgecrest City Council Chambers MEMBERS PRESENT: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott Student Member Hannah Ponek MEMBERS ABSENT: Johnson STAFF PRESENT: Joanna Rummer, Superintendent PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE was recited in unison, led by student member Hanna Ponek. MOMENT OF SILENCE was observed. 1. ADOPTION OF AGENDA

The agenda was adopted by consensus as posted.

2. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

Hearing no comments, the minutes of the special meeting of January 27, 2009 and the regular meeting of February 5, 2009 were adopted by consensus as written.

3. PROGRAMS AND PRESENTATIONS

Students and a number of staff members from Faller Elementary School showcased their After School Education and Safety Program (ASES) with a slide show and brief explanations of the various components of the program. Students make productive use of their time after school by completing homework, taking part in enrichment activities, and getting exercise. One of the key components of the program is that regular classroom teachers assist the ASES staff so the programs extends student opportunity to take part in standards-based learning.

4. PUBLIC HEARINGS

4.1 Public Hearing and Approval of the Annual Budget Plan and the Annual Service Plan for 2008-09 for the Sierra Sands SELPA (Goal #1, #2, #3)

The Annual Budget Plan and Annual Service Plan for the SELPA describe the services provided by the SELPA and an overview of the allocation of resources available to provide these services. No comments were received during the public hearing on these documents. Motion passed to approve the plans for 2008-09 as presented. COVERT/DIETRICHSON AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

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2/19/09 minutes

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5. REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS 5.1 Student Member’s Report

Hannah reported the middle schools are gearing up with spirit days and pep rallies in preparation for their annual rivalry on the basketball court. James Monroe will commemorate Read Across America Day with activities hosted in the library. New signs with a sculpture of their dragon mascot are on display at Mesquite High School compliments of the IWV Water District in recognition of their water conservation program. The school counselor will be conducting a financial aid workshop for vocational and college bound students. At Burroughs, both the boys and girls basketball teams qualified for CIF and spring sports have started. An honor roll breakfast was held to recognize students with a grade point average of 3.5 or more.

5.2 Reports from Members of the Board

Mr. Pearl noted that he and Mrs. Covert attended a recent Superintendent’s Council meeting where Mrs. Rummer provided a comprehensive budget review for the membership.

5.3 Superintendent’s Report

Mrs. Rummer gave brief details of the recently approved state budget, which included cuts to both the general fund and categorical programs for education and some flexibility in the use of categorical funds. The specifics of this new budget are still not definite, especially regarding the implementation, but the district must be poised and prepared to react appropriately as details become more clear. Many good ideas were gathered during the recent budget forums and staff is reviewing all programs and activities to consolidate, restructure, and eliminate duplication of effort. However, the budget shortfall is great and while every effort will be made in every arena to mitigate the final result, with a deficit this size, it is inevitable that reductions in personnel will be necessary. Mrs. Rummer also reported on the fifth month enrollment report that showed enrollment up at the elementary level but continuing to decline at the secondary level.

5.4 Communications

Publications from schools were distributed for information.

5.5 Comments from the public on items not on the agenda 6. EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION

6.1 Report to the Board: 21st Century Community Learning Centers Grant Application (Goal #1, #2, #5)

Mrs. Hickle informed the board that a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant application had been submitted to the California Department of Education for Las Flores and Richmond Elementary Schools. The federal grant program supports the creation of community learning centers that provide academic enrichment opportunities during non-school hours for children, particularly students who attend high-poverty and/or low-performing schools. The program helps students meet state and local standards in core academic subjects, offers students a broad array of enrichment activities, and offers literacy and other educational services to the families of participating children.

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2/19/09 minutes

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6. EDUCATIONAL ADMINISTRATION (continued)

6.2 Approval of Recommendation to Modify the Master Schedule at District Middle Schools Beginning in the 2009-10 School Year (Goal #1, #2, #3) Motion passed to implement a 55-minute six period day schedule at district middle schools in 2009-10. This schedule will provide flexibility in course scheduling, maximize class loads, increase the opportunity for students to take electives, realize a substantial cost savings in staffing, and balance teacher loads and instructional time for all courses. ROCKWELL/COVERT AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

6.3 Approval of Sierra Sands Unified School District 2007-08 School Accountability Report Cards (Goal #3, #5)

Motion passed to approve Sierra Sands Unified School District 2007-08 School Accountability Report Cards as presented. The preparation and distribution of these documents are required of all public schools in order to provide parents and the community with important information about each public school. COVERT/DIETRICHSON AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

7. POLICY DEVELOPMENT AND REVIEW 8. PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION 8.1 Certificated Employment, resignation, retirement, leave of absence, change of status, termination 8.2 Classified Employment, resignation, retirement, leave of absence, change of status, termination

Motion passed to adopt the personnel actions as presented. DIETRICHSON/COVERT AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson These actions are made a part of the minutes by reference and are filed in the Board Record Book identified as pages 1-4 of the 2/19/09 agenda.

9. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION 9.1 Gifts to the District

Motion passed to accept the following gifts: from Home Depot, a refrigerator/freezer to the transportation department; and from Wal-Mart, $200 for the holiday program at Richmond School. ROCKWELL/PEARL AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

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2/19/09 minutes

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9. GENERAL ADMINISTRATION (continued)

9.2 Approval to Submit a Request for Allowance of Attendance at Rand School Because of Emergency Conditions Due to Inclement Weather

Classes were cancelled at Rand Elementary School on December 18, 2008 because of inclement weather and the closure of roads making it impossible for students and staff to report to school. Motion passed to file a waiver with the California Department of Education requesting that apportionment be maintained and instructional time be credited for Rand Elementary School for December 18, 2008 because of emergency conditions due to inclement weather. DIETRICHSON/COVERT AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

9.3 California School Boards Association (CSBA) Delegate Assembly Election

Motion passed to vote for candidates Kevin Burton, Blaine Geissel, Linda Brenner, and Deanna Rodriguez-Root as members from Subregion 12-B of the CSBA Delegate Assembly. FARRIS/DIETRICHSON AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

10. BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION

10.1 Report to the Board: Measure “A” and Other Construction Activities and Issues (Goal #3, #4) Mr. Auld distributed the first newsletter, The Measure “A” Communiqué. This newsletter will be distributed via email with hard copies being made available at district sites and other key locations across the district. Mr. Auld also updated the board on progress on the demolition and modernization of building B at Faller School. Some thoughts were also shared on the impact of the negative economy on the district’s modernization projects and how the district will address these issues.

10.2 Approval of the Terms and Conditions of the Site Lease, Lease-Leaseback, and Construction

Services Agreements and Enabling Resolutions Related to Modernization Projects at Burroughs High School (#28 0809), Rand Elementary School (#29 0809), Las Flores Elementary School (#30 0809), and Richmond Elementary School (#31 0809) (Goal #3, #4)

Motion passed to approve the terms and conditions of the site leases, lease-leaseback, and construction services agreements for Burroughs, Rand, Las Flores, and Richmond Schools and to adopt the enabling resolutions #28 0809, #29 0809, #30 0809, and #31 0809, as presented. This action will allow the court validation process to begin in preparation for the launching of these projects. DIETRICHSON/COVERT AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

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2/19/09 minutes

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11. CONSENT CALENDAR

12.1 Approval of “A” and “B” Warrants “A” warrants in the amount of $2,491,634.09; “B” warrants in the amount of $705,352.54

12.2 Authorization to Pay Conference Expenses for Southern Sierra Boys and Girls Club Employees (Goal #1 #2)


Motion passed to adopt the consent calendar as presented. DIETRICHSON/COVERT AYES: Covert, Dietrichson, Farris, Pearl, Rockwell, Scott ABSENT: Johnson

12. FUTURE AGENDA

To be considered: development of board protocols

13. ADJOURNMENT was at 8:25 p.m.

THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

_________________________________________ ________________________________________ Kurt Rockwell, Vice President/Clerk Joanna Rummer, Secretary to Board recorder: Jane Brooks

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SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT MARCH 5, 2009 8. PERSONNEL ADMINISTRATION

8.1 CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL

8.11 RESIGNATION, TERMINATION*, SEPARATION**, RETIREMENT***

8.12 LEAVE OF ABSENCE

8.13 EMPLOYMENT

8.14 CHANGE OF STATUS

RECOMMENDED ACTION: To approve certificated personnel actions as presented. 8.2 CLASSIFIED PERSONNEL

8.21 RESIGNATION, TERMINATION*, SEPARATION**, RETIREMENT***


8.23 EMPLOYMENT

8.24 CHANGE OF STATUS

RECOMMENDED ACTION: To approve classified personnel actions as presented.

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8.1 CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL

8.11 RESIGNATION, TERMINATION*, SEPARATION**, RETIREMENT*** Carol Walton***

2nd Grade – Gateway Effective 6-4-09 Karen Benson 3rd Grade – Faller Effective 6-4-09 8.12 LEAVE OF ABSENCE

8.13 EMPLOYMENT

Substitute Teachers for 08-09 year

Nancy Hodge Aubrey McCarthy Katie Nazeck 8.14 CHANGE OF STATUS

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8.2 CLASSIFIED PERSONNEL

8.21 RESIGNATION, TERMINATION*, SEPARATION**, RETIREMENT*** Josephine Lewallen*** 8 hr. Custodian – James Monroe Middle School Effective 06-05-09

Peggy Scofield*** 8 hr. Secondary Library Specialist – Murray Effective 4-14-09


Lynn Wade 5½ hr. Paraprofessional - Richmond Requests leave from 4-6-09 through 6-4-09

8.23 EMPLOYMENT Classified Substitutes for the 2008-2009 School Year Barbara Devries Student Workability Workers for the 2008-2009 School Year Mirando Brady Crystal Gray Rebecca Hoehn Eddie Meredith Ruben Solis

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8.3 Approval of Non-reelection of Certificated Personnel with Less than a Preliminary Credential as a Result of a Decision of the California Fifth District Court of Appeals

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: In 2006 the Fifth Appellate Court decision regard-ing the Bakersfield Elementary Teachers Association v. Bakersfield City School Dis-trict changed the manner in which teachers with less than preliminary teaching creden-tials are reemployed for the following year. In the above referenced case, the school district categorized certificated employees holding anything less than a preliminary cre-dential (e.g., intern credential, short-term staff permit, emergency permit, credential waiver) as temporary employees. The California Fifth District Court of Appeal has held that the district’s policy of classifying teachers and counselors as temporary em-ployees on the basis of holding something less than a preliminary or professional (clear) credential was not valid. The court noted in its decision that probationary employees, even those with less than a regular credential, were entitled to accrue seniority. There-fore, without a break in service to restart the seniority clock, these newly classified pro-bationary employees could end up having more seniority than someone who is fully credentialed, a situation that would not be acceptable, specifically in times of layoff. As they could not be temporary employees on the basis of their credential, then they had to be probationary employees. As a probationary employee, the proper method to release them is the non-reelection process. In 2006-07, as a result of this decision, the Sierra Sands Unified School District modi-fied procedures in compliance with the Fifth Appellate Court and non-reelected all cer-tificated employees working on the basis of less than a preliminary credential. CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: In compliance with this court decision and to pre-serve the integrity of the layoff seniority list, counsel has advised the district to seek board authorization to non-reelect all twenty-one (21) certificated employees who are employed by the district for 2008-09 on the basis of less than preliminary credentials issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. The district will not be able to offer reemployment to any of the impacted employees until after July 1, 2009. Please note that the district has communicated with the Desert Area Teachers Associa-tion (DATA) as well as with all the affected employees during this process prior to the Board of Education meeting. Following board approval, the affected employees will all receive a non-reelection letter from the district prior to March 15, 2009 as required by California Education Code. This allows the district to release these employees without cause, effective at the end of the 2008-09 school year and eliminates the issue of accru-ing seniority without being fully credentialed. It also allows the district to recruit, as it has previously done, for fully credentialed teachers for these positions before rehiring those not fully credentialed. If the district is unable to employ fully credentialed teach-ers in any of these positions, it may reemploy any or all of these impacted employees for the 2009-10 school year.

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Item 8.3, Personnel Administration 2 MARCH 5, 2009 Non-reelection of Certificated Personnel

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: Unknown. There is potential for additional unem-ployment insurance costs to the district as a result of this action.

SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: Approve the non-reelection of all twenty-one (21) certificated employees employed by the district for the 2008-09 school year on less than a preliminary credential, as presented.

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8.4 Adoption of Resolution #33 0809, Reducing or Eliminating Certificated Services for the 2009-10 School Year

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The budget crisis faced by the State of California has created serious implications for school districts statewide. Mid-year cuts, along with subsequent year budget reductions, are forcing districts to identify, plan, and im-plement a wide range of cost savings measures. For the current year, mid-year cuts to the Sierra Sands budget will be approximately $1.5 million to the unrestricted general fund and about $400,000 to categorical programs. Because the district started the 2008-09 school year with a $2.9 million deficit to its general fund, Sierra Sands will be fac-ing a budget deficit of almost $4.4 million dollars for the 2009-10 school year. This deficit requires that the district take immediate action in planning for the 2009-10 school year, and with the size of the deficit, programs will be affected and staff reduc-tions will be required. CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: Staff has been intent on looking at all options avail-able to them in addressing the budget deficit. Community forums and staff meetings have generated many ideas on how the district might mitigate costs. Even though a va-riety of cost savings measures have been identified that can be implemented immedi-ately and in the near future, the district is faced with having to make staff reductions at all levels. Among the items under consideration is the flexibility option regarding class size reduction and the restructuring of class schedules at the secondary level in an effort to adjust the ratio of staff to students to increase efficiency of operation. Additionally, identified actions must be governed by the parameters and guidelines imposed by the state budget, and unfortunately, portions of the specifics of the state budget are yet to be clarified. Some of these identified cost-saving measures will require a reduction in certificated staff. As required by education code, the superintendent or designee must give written notice not later than March 15 to the board and to each employee affected that it is rec-ommended that the employee’s services will not be required for the upcoming school year. Resolution #33 0809 calling for reduction or elimination of certificated services for the 2009-10 school year, as described in Exhibit A, is presented for adoption. Adoption of Resolution #33 0809 will allow staff to proceed with the determination of which employees’ services may not be required for the 2009-10 school year and give those employees notice not later than March 15, 2009 of the superintendent’s recom-mendation that they not be reemployed for the 2009-10 school year. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The district can project an approximate cost savings of $1,635,050 with the reduction of positions identified in Resolution #33 08099.

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Item 8.4, Personnel Administration 2 MARCH 5, 2009 Reduction or Elimination of Certificated Services

SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Board of Education adopt Resolution #33 0809 reducing or eliminating certificated services for the 2009-10 school year, as presented.

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BEFORE THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT COUNTY OF KERN, STATE OF CALIFORNIA

REDUCING OR ELIMINATING CERTAIN ) CERTIFICATED SERVICES FOR THE ) RESOLUTION #33 0809 2009-10 SCHOOL YEAR )

WHEREAS, the Governing Board of the Sierra Sands Unified School District has deter-mined that it shall be necessary to reduce or discontinue a particular kind of service of the Dis-trict as itemized in Exhibit “A” at the close of the current school year; and WHEREAS, it shall be necessary to terminate at the end of the 2008-2009 school year, the employment of certain certificated employees of the District as a result of this reduction or dis-continuance in a particular kind of service; NOW, THEREFORE, THE BOARD RESOLVES THAT: Pursuant to Education Code sections 44955 and 44949, the Superintendent is directed to send appropriate notice to the employee whose services shall be terminated by virtue of this action. Nothing herein shall be deemed to confer any status or rights upon temporary or categorically funded project certificated employees in addition to those specifically granted to them by statute. ******************************** I CERTIFY that the above resolution, proposed by Trustee ________________ and seconded by Trustee ____________________, was duly passed and adopted by the Governing Board of the Sierra Sands Unified School District of Kern County, California, at an official and public meeting thereof held on March 5, 2009. AYES: ______ NOES: _______ ABSTENTIONS: ________ ABSENT: ________ DATED: _______________ GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BY: ____________________________________ TITLE: ______Secretary to the Board__________

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EXHIBIT A

LIST OF CERTIFICATED SERVICES BEING REDUCED OR ELIMINATED FOR THE 2009-2010 SCHOOL YEAR

ELEMENTARY EDUCATION (K-5) Services Being Net FTE Reduced or Eliminated Reduced Elementary Teaching 20.00 Special Education Day Class 1.00 *MIDDLE SCHOOL EDUCATION (6-8) Services Being Net FTE Reduced or Eliminated Reduced 8th Grade Core 1.00 Mathematics 1.00 English 2.00 HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION (9-12) Services Being Net FTE Reduced or Eliminated Reduced English 2.00 Social Studies .60 Drivers Education .40 Athletic Director .40 Physical Education .60 Mathematics 2.00 Navy Jr. ROTC Program 2.00 Foreign Language-Spanish .80 Special Education Day Class 1.00 Spec. Education Specialist 1.00 School Counselor 1.00

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ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION PROGRAMS Services Being Net FTE Reduced or Eliminated Reduced Community Day School 1.00 SPECIAL EDUCATION/SELPA Services Being Net FTE Reduced or Eliminated Reduced School Psychologist 1.00 Program Specialists 2.00 Itinerant DIS Intervention 1.00 MANAGEMENT POSITIONS Services Being Net FTE Reduced or Eliminated Reduced Burroughs Dean of Students 1.00 NET REDUCTION DISTRICTWIDE: 42.80 FTE FTE = Full-time equivalent

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8.5 Adoption of Resolution #34 0809, Determination of Seniority Among Certificated Employees with the Same First Paid Date of Service

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The Board of Education has determined with the adoption of Resolution #33 0809 that there is a need to reduce or eliminate certificated staff for the 2009-10 school year. CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: In the case of a reduction in certificated staff, adop-tion of Resolution #34 0809 provides a vehicle by which the district can determine the order of termination between employees who first rendered paid service to the district on the same date. The order of determination will be based on the need of the district and the students as listed in the resolution. These criteria will be applied in determining the order of termination. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: None. SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the board adopt Resolution #34 0809 as presented.

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BEFORE THE GOVERNING BOARD OF THE SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT COUNTY OF KERN, STATE OF CALIFORNIA

DETERMINATION OF SENIORITY AMONG ) CERTIFICATED EMPLOYEES WITH SAME ) RESOLUTION #34 0809 FIRST PAID DATE OF SERVICE ) TIE-BREAKER RESOLUTION ) BE IT RESOLVED by the Governing Board of the Sierra Sands Unified School District, that the order of termination between employees who first rendered paid service to the District on the same date shall be based solely on the needs of the District and the students thereof. The specific criteria and rating system used in determining this need shall be as follows, but not nec-essarily listed in order of importance:

A. Credentialing (+1 for Intern; +2 for Preliminary, +3 for Clear/Life, and +1 for addi-tional supplemental authorization)

B. No Child Left Behind Authorization (+2 for each area in which the teacher is creden-

tialed and is NCLB qualified)

C. English Learner Authorizations (+2 for EL authorization: CLAD, SDAIE, or CTEL and +3 for Bilingual authorization: BCLAD or BCC)

D. Education/Training (+2 for Master’s Degree, +3 for Doctorate)

In the event a tie exists after administration of the above criteria, the District will then break ties utilizing a lottery. I CERTIFY that the above resolution, proposed by Trustee ___________________ and

seconded by Trustee ____________________, was duly passed and adopted by the Governing Board of the Sierra Sands Unified School District of Kern County, California, at an official and public meeting thereof held on March 5, 2009, by the following vote: AYES: _______ NOES: _______ ABSTENTIONS: _______ ABSENT: _______ DATED: _______________________ GOVERNING BOARD OF THE

SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT BY: ___________________________________

TITLE: ______Secretary to the Board________

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8.6 Approval of Extension of Early Retirement Notification Incentive for 2008-09

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: For several years, the district has offered an early retirement notification incentive. At a special meeting on January 5, 2009, the board approved an increase in the incentive amount for 2009-10 to $3,000 for each retiring certificated employee and $1,600 for each retiring classified employee who declared in writing prior to January 31, 2009 his/her intent to retire. Six certificated employees and seven classified employees submitted their retirement letters prior to the deadline date. This provided the district with valuable information in determining staffing needs for the upcoming school year.

CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: In light of the current budget situation, the district is proposing to extend the early retirement notification incentive for 2008-09 to March 31, 2009. If only one employee chose to take advantage of this extension, the district could potentially realize significant savings while providing an added benefit to employees and still gain valuable data for determining staffing needs for next year.

If this recommendation is approved by the board, the effective date of retirement to be eligible for this incentive would be: (1) between June 5, 2009 and August 1, 2009 for certificated employees; and (2) between February 1, 2009 and August 1, 2009 for clas-sified employees. Employees must be eligible to retire under STRS or PERS in order to receive this incentive. All employees eligible to retire would receive a letter during the week of March 2-6, 2009 from the Human Resources Department describing the ex-tended early retirement notification incentive program. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The exact fiscal impact is unknown, but the cost of the program is certain to be offset by the reduced cost in salary and statutory benefits. Most important for the district are the benefits associated with management of staffing in the current fiscal climate.

SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the board ap-prove the extension of the early retirement notification incentive program for 2009-10 in the amount of $3,000 for each certificated employee and $1,600 for each classified employee who declares in writing no later than March 31, 2009 his/her intent to retire within the applicable retirement window.

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SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT MARCH 5, 2009 10. CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

10.1 Report to the Board: Measure “A” and Other Construction Activities and Issues (Goal #3, #4)

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The purpose of this item is to keep the board, administration, and especially the community informed as to the progress of the dis-trict’s Measure “A” and other construction efforts.

CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: Current activity relative to construction issues is addressed in a subsequent item under Construction Administration on this board agenda. Additionally, Mr. Auld traveled to Sacramento last week to deliver applica-tions for state funding for the Pierce and Faller modernization projects, to meet with the district’s eligibility consultant and the district’s lobbyist, and to meet with staff from the State Allocation Board. He will discuss these meetings from the podium and any other construction-related issues that may come to light prior to the meeting as ap-propriate. SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: This item is presented for informa-tional purposes and no action is required.

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SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT MARCH 5, 2009 10. CONSTRUCTION ADMINISTRATION

10.2 Approval of a Pre-construction Services Agreement between the Sierra Sands Unified School District and Barnhart, Inc. for Infrastructure and Parking at Burroughs High School (Goal #3, #4)

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: At the February 19, 2009 regular meeting of the Board of Education, the board approved the initiation of a lease/leaseback validation process through the Kern County Superior Court, naming Barnhart, Inc. as its con-struction partner. The project includes infrastructure enhancements in preparation for construction of the new career technical education building and parking at Burroughs High School.

CURRENT CONSIDERATION: In an effort to more efficiently plan for a very compressed summer recess construction window, pre-construction services are highly recommended. In contrast, should the district wait until the completion of the valida-tion process, insufficient time may be available to complete the summer recess con-struction prior to the start of school. The services provided by Barnhart, Inc. will include estimating/cost evaluation of plans and specifications, site review, constructability review, scheduling for construc-tion as well as design changes, scheduling and coordination relating to utilities, haz-ardous material identification (if any); bidding services, bidder outreach, and the preparation and submittal of a proposed guaranteed maximum price. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The cost of this contract shall not exceed $67,940. The fund source for this contract is Measure A and as appropriate, developer fee funds and deferred maintenance funds. SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the board approve a pre-construction services agreement with Barnhart, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $67,940 for pre-construction services at Burroughs High School as presented.

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SIERRA SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT MARCH 5, 2009 12. CONSENT CALENDAR

12.1 Approval of Out-of-State Travel for the Burroughs High School Music Students to

Participate in a Music Festival, Adjudication, and Clinic in Hawaii in March 2010 at No Expense to the District (Goal #2)

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Board approval is required when students travel out of the state on school activities. CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: The Burroughs High school band, choir, and or-chestra have been invited to participate and compete in the On-Trek Music Festival in Hawaii during spring break 2010. The anticipated dates are March 23-28, 2010, al-though the exact dates could change dependent upon fundraising and travel schedules. The event includes both adjudication and clinic-workshops. An internationally recog-nized music educator and clinician will provide an on-stage workshop following each formal performance, and directors of music at the University of Hawaii will provide custom workshops for each group at the university. In addition to learning in work-shops at the music festival and the University of Hawaii, Burroughs students will at-tend a luau, visit the USS Arizona War Memorial, and explore Hawaiian culture and geography. Hotel accommodations and travel arrangements will be negotiated follow-ing board approval of this trip. Chaperones will accompany the students at a ratio of at least 10:1 with Sierra Sands staff members and parents experienced in traveling with students making up the chaperone pool. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: The projected cost of this trip is $2,000 per per-son. The trip will be funded by the Burroughs Music Boosters through fundraising ef-forts. There will be no cost to the district. No substitute teachers will be needed as the trip is during the spring break. SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the board approve travel for Burroughs High School band, choir, and orchestra students to travel to Hawaii during spring break 2010 in order to participate in the On-Trek Music Festi-val as presented.

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12.2 Authorization of Payment for Travel Expenses for Teachers at St. Ann’s School to

Participate in a Staff Development Program Supported by Title IIA Funds (Goal #2)

BACKGROUND INFORMATION: The No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 provides educational services and programs to private school children, teachers, and other education personnel, including those in religiously affiliated schools. Title II, Part A, provides assistance for preparing, training, recruiting, and retaining highly qualified teachers. The amount of funding available for services to private school per-sonnel is governed by NCLB which requires equitable participation of private school educational personnel to the extent that the Local Education Agency, consortium, or entity uses its funds for professional development. Funds provided for professional development for private school teachers must be equal to the amount spent for public school teachers, on a per-pupil basis. CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: St. Ann’s School participates in a variety of fed-eral programs including Title 1, Title IIA, Title IID, Title III, Title IV and Title V. Administration and purchasing support for these programs are provided by Sierra Sands Unified School District through No Child Left Behind. St. Ann’s teachers and administrators have participated in district inservice offerings. Five staff members at St Ann’s School wish to participate in the National Catholic Education Association Convention being held on April 14-16, 2009 in Anaheim, Cali-fornia. This convention addresses topics in curriculum, instruction, management, and governance for grades Pre-K through 12. FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS: The total cost of the four day training for the five teachers is anticipated not to exceed $2,810. This includes course registration, trans-portation, hotel, and meals.

SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the expenses from Title IIA-Highly Qualified Teachers to allow conference attendance for five teachers from St. Ann’s School as presented.

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Education code requires the board to take final action on recommendations for expulsion. CURRENT CONSIDERATIONS: Board approval is requested for the following ex-pulsion cases: Expulsion Case #12 0809: As stated in a stipulated expulsion agreement, student is expelled for the remainder of the spring semester of 2008-09 and the fall semester of 2009-10. The student to apply for readmission in January 2010 under the terms of a contract. During the period of expulsion, the student is referred to the Ridgecrest Learning Center. FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: None. SUPERINTENDENT’S RECOMMENDATION: Approve the recommendation for expulsion, Expulsion Case #12 0809, as presented.

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