MINUTES OF THE WORK SESSION OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION
BENTON HARBOR AREA SCHOOLS
JULY 3, 2001

President Dwight P. Mitchell called the July work session of the Board of Education to order at 6:30 p.m. at the Benton Harbor High School Student Commons Area.

Present: Mr. Dwight P. Mitchell, Mrs. Annie Robinson, Mr. Anthony Henry, Mrs. J. Allene Smith, Dr. Gladys Peeples-Burks, Mr. Ken Woltman and Michelle Jones

Recognitions
BHHS Coach Ramsey Nichols has initiated a one-day boys and girls summer basketball camp scheduled for 9:00 am - 4:00 pm on Thursday, August 2, at the Benton Harbor High School gym. Quality fundamental instruction will be given on several aspects of the game with strong emphasis on sportsmanship.

The 4th Annual Emergency Support Career Day for Benton Harbor youth has been scheduled for Friday, July 20, on the lawn of Benton Harbor High School. Information will be shared by local emergency support agencies that include: Michigan State Police Department, Berrien County Sheriff's Department, BH Police and Fire Rescue Departments, Benton Township Police and Fire Rescue Departments, Emergency Ambulance Services, Lakeland Regional Center and the Department of Natural Resources.

Instruction
In the absence of Assistant Superintendent Richard Garrison, Superintendent Williams disseminated information on 2001 Summer Secondary Student Transition Programs. The program focus is intended to help ensure success for all students new to our secondary schools. The transition program will include an assessment in the four core curricular areas and is intended to enhance the social, cultural and academic development of all participants. Sixth and seventh grade programs include Fair Plain Middle School and McCord Renaissance Center. The Hull Middle School transition program is being deferred due to building construction. Sixth grade program dates are August 20-21 and seventh grade program dates are August 14-15. The Benton Harbor High School transition program for ninth grade students is scheduled for August 20-21.

Human Resources/Labor Relations
Assistant Superintendent Nora Jefferson reported that Board action would be requested at the regular meeting to approve:

Other
Superintendent Williams requested that the proposed closing of Fair Plain Northwest building be added to the agenda and that a public forum be held prior to the regular meeting.

Public Participation II
Mr. George Piggee addressed the Board of Education with his concerns regarding the proposed closing of Fair Plain Northwest building, budget cuts and the outsourcing of the food service labor.

Ms. Kellie Carter addressed the Board of Education regarding the proposed closing of Fair Plain Northwest building and the privatization of the food service labor.

Ms. Betty Mitchell addressed the Board of Education concerning the unsettled contract and salary increase for the service workers.

Mr. Johnny Walker addressed the Board of Education with concerns that BHAS has too many District owned vehicles used by employees.

Mr. James Bell addressed the Board of Education stating that he is looking forward to the Board and the Union working together to solve any problems.

Mr. Willie Morrow addressed the Board of Education concerning salary increases while jobs are being eliminated.

Ms. Kim Thompson addressed the Board of Education asking the Board to reconsider the privatization of the food service labor.

Ms. Barbara Peeples addressed the Board of Education with concerns regarding the proposed closing of the Fair Plain Northwest building.

Board Comments
Trustee Woltman stated that other Districts have faced financial shortfalls and had to make difficult budget decisions.

Trustee Peeples-Burks stated that the District must make sound financial decisions and reduce expenditures.

Trustee Smith extended her condolences to Superintendent Williams and Trustee Robinson for their recent loss of a family member.

Trustee Jones welcomed Trustee Henry to the Board of Education. She also expressed displeasure with The Herald-Palladium for a front-page article concerning her non-attendance at Board meetings.

Trustee Henry encouraged parents and the community to work together with the District in solving problems.

Trustee Robinson extended her appreciation to the employees and community for their participation and attendance at Board meetings.

Trustee Mitchell stated that being President of the Board of Education is not an easy position and as a Board we are faced with difficult decisions that are not always popular. He encouraged the community to support the District through the millage renewal.

There being no further business, the July work session was adjourned at 7:15 p.m.