Call Meeting to Order

1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
2. APPROVAL OF NOVEMBER 6, 2007, AGENDA
   Vote Results: PASS
   
     Motion: Nancy Broner
     Second: Tommy Hazouri
   
     Martha Barrett - Aye
     Kristanna Barnes - Aye
     Nancy Broner - Aye
     Vicki Drake - Aye
     Brenda Priestly Jackson - Aye
     Betty Burney - Aye
     Tommy Hazouri - Aye
   

Invocation

1. INVOCATION
   Minutes: Chaplain David MacNamara
   Christ the King Catholic Church
   
   

Pledge of Allegiance

1. PLEADGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Comments from Audience

1. COMMENTS FROM AUDIENCE
   Minutes: Pastor George Harvey, Jr. said we were very plesed that you have placed Ed Pratt-Dannals as Interim Superintendent and elated as his being the official Superintendent. Our two sons have done extremely well as public school students in Duval County. They took higher level courses and many young men in our neighborhoods can do as well with higher math courses, proper groundwork and encouragement. Mr. Pratt-Dannals has advantages in being our new Superintendent. A national search would be costly and the holiday break is not far away. Mr. Pratt-Dannals has been socializing on teaching initiatives and you won't get any surprises with him. We have already had much change and it's critical that we have a smooth transition. Mr. Pratt-Dannals provides a seamless approach at the table with his experience as being a principal at some of our best schools.
   
   Mr. Cleve Warren thanked the Board for this time to speak with you. We do wish for our children, inspire their dreams and inspire their tomorrows. Mr. Warren spoke about the achievement gap and the ugly scar and perils of leadership. It is our sincere hope that Mr. Pratt-Dannals and the Board will move forward. We trust your wisdom and your choice of Mr. Pratt-Dannals to lead this school system. Our children deserve nothing less and we hope he will be open to public input.
   
   Ms. Nina Waters, president of the Community Foundation, supports naming Ed Pratt-Dannals as Superintendent of Duval County schools. Mr. Pratt-Dannals has been with us at the beginning of the journey and continues today. We're in our third year and there's much left to be done. He's a constant support and his deliberate style of leadership is evident. Mr. Pratt-Dannals possesses a deep understanding for students and teachers. We look forward to working with you as a Board and Superintendent.
   
   Ms. E. Jane Bowman, teacher since 1973 and has been at Jefferson Davis Middle School for 10 years. Ms. Bowman said she has taught in Duval County since 1981. Many teachers have left Jefferson Davis in the last few years. We do care about education and the atmosphere of our school. We shouldn't have actions taken against us because we're speaking publicly (addressing the same concerns as those did at the 10/2/07 meeting). I, personally, have been singled out for retaliation and have kept a journal. I have been targeted. I don't want to air all my grievances and I do appreciate your time.
   
   Mr. James Moser spoke about his principal at Lee High School and spoke about Dr. Wise at the last Board meeting. Mr. Moser said that he can't take it any more and the daily acts of violence taking place at school. The principal tried to put him on a Success Plan but can't and now she's upset and there's no need for an administrator to behave this way. Mr. Moser feels he's being singled out. He needs to be teaching the students and he's requesting an appointment with Mr. Pratt-Dannals and Mr. Hazouri as soon as possible. More teachers would come and speak tonight but they are afraid.
   
   Mr. Eddie Diamond, Jr. spoke about school demographics and assessment data, particularly in the northwestern part of town. We need help from the community. Mr. Diamond defined the "ghetto" as a slum area with often ethnic groups. This is the real world and we need to help Mrs. Priestly Jackson with after school studying, etc. Part of this is crime and sub-culture and we need to deal with it and I'm part of it. I'm a common man and not an educated man. We can point fingers but we need to help these kids. The Sheriff is right about the MARS program and we also need a Jupiter program. Mr. Diamond said he recently met a woman at Northwestern Middle School who constantly tells the students she loves them.
   
   Mr. Justin A. Osier, both he and his wife are teachers at Lee High School and they are both quitting their jobs. We want to cut down on the violence. We are ordinary people trying to do extraordinary things. We continually hear obscenities and try to break up fights. Too many students are enrolled in Advanced Placement courses when they can't do the work. My wife and I are threatened and fear being hurt and no one helps us. Students are afraid to use the bathrooms alone and they're afraid to eat lunch so they go without eating all day long. Some students belittle the teachers and show no respect. Teachers are aprehensive walking to their car. You could cry hearing the lives of some of the students and what they go through at home. Much needs to be done with these situations.
   
   Ms. Debra Clonts said she teaches at a good school and has great kids. She teaches Inclusion and we need help. We don't have any assistants and no after school programs because we're an "A" school. Many teachers tutor for free but we're tired. I know it's time for change but the pryamid is top heavy. Everyone reaches out to the students and we are directly involved with those kids. We do the best we can but there is too much paperwork. It takes alot of hard work to make a good school and for children to be successful. Please change the pyramid!
   
   Ms. Martha McManus, representing the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville and I also represent the ACE Coalition - Arts for Complete Education. I know you've had a tough time lately with tough decisions and we really appreciate the dedication and diligence that you've given to our students. We're behind you and we support your decisions. We want to welcome you, Mr. Pratt-Dannals, in your new position and we look forward to supporting you as you prepare our kids academically for their future. I want to publicly congratulate some of our Duval County teachers who've made an extra effort to give their kids more art experiences through the Cultural Council's grant program. Unfortunately this year, budget cuts - we only received about half the grants we usually get, but we've been able to continue the program. We have five grants of $500 each to give this year and they went to: Steven Smith at DuPont Middle School; Tracy Mims Jones at Ribault High School; Nancy Coyle DeCandis at Neptune Beach Elementary School; Ryan Whalen at Oceanway Middle School; and Barbara Craig at J.E.B. Stuart Middle School. Congratulations to all of these great teachers. There was very stiff competition and we appreciate the extra effort they've gone to to give their students more art and we appreciate the extra effort you've gone to, as well. Thank you.
   
   Mr. Edward Exson gave a report entitled, "African-American Living in the Pits of the Dark Ghetto". He mentions that nothing will change until the ghetto changes. Closing the achievement gap is a lofty goal, closing the wealth gap is a real need, in spite of all the rhetoric, they will not close. Laws moved us from the plantation and subsequently, Jim Crow's laws carved blacks out a niche - a ghetto (race, space, poverty), restricted by economic pressure and social discrimination for infinite duration. This Board acted expeditiously in carrying out your instructions in firing the Superintendent. Yet, you are so imperceptive in the need to change the name of Nathan Bedford Forest High School. Mr. Superintendent, I applaud you for teaching Sunday School and changing hearts. However, I entreat you to change the minds of the ones that ordained you Superintendent and to help change the ghetto. A snap shot viewing of the world - the black soldier may soon be pulled from the ghetto and prisons to fight in World War III.
   
   Ms. DeVondalyn Hughes, representative and founder of Patterson Academy for the Arts. I am one who is trying to reform and uplift the "ghetto". I am grateful that the district granted us an informal hearing, however, last Thursday, some things took place and as a result, we had to be withdrawn from the agenda tonight. I'd like to clear up some things as I saw some incorrect information. We never did have the hearing on November 1 and we're requesting to reschedule that hearing. Ms. Hughes read the letter. See Attachment
   
   Mr. Stanley Scott asked if we're going to continue these present initiatives and programs? Teachers don't have time to teach students and you're making it very hard for teachers. You must change the inside or you're still the same person. We can't keep doing the same things or we'll be right back in the same situation. I'm going to support the teachers but these initiatives and programs must be changed. There are approximately 14,000 employees in the school system with 7,000 of them as teachers. Take a serious look at this ratio as this pyramid needs to be reversed. I'll work on this during the next 60 days. Kids are our first priority and teachers, second.
   
   Mr. John Turner said after the total disaster of dismissing Dr. Wise, this body places Ed Pratt-Dannals as Superintendent. Yes, he's not as arrogant as Dr. Wise. Now, is the time to hire a new Superintendent. I propose that you implement the following new policies: Go back to the basics; buy the best textbooks and not software; indiscrimination in the classroom; audit the school district (and this hasn't been done in over 10 years); do not hire another Superintendent until an audit has been completed; clean and safe schools; build new schools where they are needed - they are greedy developers with impact fees. We need someone on the Board and that's why I'm running in District 7.
   
   Mr. Jeff Chartrand said the selection of a Superintendent is the Board's duty and the Chartrand Foundation supports your decision. I have had the opportunity to know Mr. Pratt-Dannals and we have a good relationship. I look forward to working with you.
   
   

Comments from Parent Organizations

1. COMMENTS FROM PARENT ORGANIZATIONS
   Minutes: District Advisory Council - Rachel Raneri, Chairman:
   
   The District Advisory Council met on Monday, October 22nd. While we had a large turn out, we did not have enough voting members to make a quorum. The election of the Chair was tabled until the next meeting.
   
   The DRAFT proposed calendars for years 2008 - 09, 2009 – 10, and 2010 – 11. DAC members were asked to share these with their Areas and send any questions or comments to Tom Welsh as soon as possible. Some additional suggestions have been sent out today. The Calendar Committee will meet again on November 15th at 3:30.
   
   Mr. Pratt-Dannals reported to us on his visions for the future and how things may change and be implemented. He spoke about the early release days, they are for Professional Learning communities. Professional training is for faculty meetings. He said that there will be more training for ESE inclusion teachers and staff. As a point of personal privilege, I would like to welcome Mr. Pratt-Dannals and look forward to working with you.
   
   Questions about IRIS were asked, and Karen Hanson said that she will get the guide book to those who need it.
   
   We met the new food service manager, Catherine Thorne. She said that if there are any food service concerns, to contact her.
   
   The Areas that were in attendance reported on specific issues and the appropriate departments will be notified.
   
   Members were reminded that the individual School Advisory Councils should be meeting 8 times per year. All SACs should have their bylaws on file by now. If there are any schools that need help with this, I am available to assist.
   
   The new magnet grant was announced and Mr. Pratt-Dannals suggested that we ask Dr. Sally Hague attend the next DAC meeting to share that information. We will also have Paul Soares from Operations Support come to talk about changes that will be taking place when the new AAA school opens. The District is looking for parent and community input as progress goes on in Duval County Public Schools.
   
   The next District Advisory Council meeting will be on Monday, November 29th at 6:00 pm in the 6th floor conference room.
   
   I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
   
   PTA - Pam Kinevan, President:
   
   Hi, I’m Pam Kinevan, President of the Duval County Council of PTAs/PTSAs.
   
   Our next general meeting will be held November13th here in the Cline Auditorium. Hospitality begins at 9:30, with our business meeting beginning promptly at 10:00. This meeting is open to all PTA members. Additionally, at 7:00pm on the 13th, County Council will hold an informal roundtable discussion at Ft. Caroline Elementary School. This is also open to all PTA members. Our primary goal in holding roundtable discussions is to provide assistance to PTAs and PTSAs who are unable to attend our daytime meetings and workshops.
   
   The Florida PTA State Convention was held in Daytona on Friday, November 2nd through Sunday, November 4th. In addition to taking care of the business of the Florida PTA, the convention also offered training opportunities.
   
   The DCCPTA has worked out an agreement with the Jacksonville Suns to have PTA Night on Tuesday, May 6th which is also Family Feast Night. PTA members will be admitted for half price by showing their PTA membership card. Admission for children of PTA members will be $1.00. And, as an extra bonus, anyone who has volunteered 50 hours at their child’s school will be admitted free with a verifying certificate. PTAs of the Year will be recognized during a pre-game show.
   
   Again this month, many of our members are working to prepare for the next opening of the Teacher Supply Depot which will be November 15th from 3 – 6p.m. We encourage all teachers and principals to take advantage of all the Teacher Supply Depot has to offer.
   
   If there are any issues that the School Board or Superintendent would like PTA to address, please call on us.
   
   

Comments from Employee Organizations

1. COMMENTS FROM EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATIONS
   Minutes: No comments.
   
   

Presentations

1. PRESENTATION - 2008 NATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT SCHOLARSHIP SEMIFINALISTS
   Minutes: Seven of our academically talented African American students joined more than 1,600 of their peers in being named Semifinalists in the 44th annual Achievement Scholarship® competition.
   
   --The National Achievement Program is a privately financed competition conducted by National Merit Scholarship Corporation that recognizes promising African American students throughout the nation. Since its initiation in 1964, the program has contributed scholarships worth approximately $88 million to over 27,800 deserving young men and women.
   
   -- To advance to the Finalist level of the competition, where these students have a chance of being one of 800 students to receive over $2.5 million in scholarships, these semifinalists must present a record of high academic performance throughout high school, be endorsed and recommended by the school principal and earn SAT scores that confirm the PSAT/NMSQT performance.
   
   --Congratulations to all of these very talented students and best wishes on advancing to the finals.
   
   --Please join me in welcoming the following students from:
   
   DOUGLAS ANDERSON SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
   Dionne Dyer
   Miguel Lugo
   Diandra Pendelton Thompson
   
   FIRST COAST HIGH SCHOOL
   Lafayette Adams
   
   PAXON SCHOOL FOR ADVANCED STUDIES
   Stephen Iya
   
   STANTON COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL
   Paul Rutland
   Rebecca Stevens
   
   
2. PRESENTATION - NATIONAL HISPANIC SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
   Minutes: Thirteen of Duval County students have been selected as participants in The College Board's National Hispanic Recognition Program.
   
   --This program was initiated in 1983 to identify outstanding Hispanic high school students and to share information about these academically well-prepared students with subscribing colleges and universities.
   
   --Each year the National Hispanic Recognition Program identifies approximately 3,300 of the highest scoring students from a nationwide total of 124,000 high school juniors who took the PSAT/NMSQT.
   
   --Being listed gives these students an opportunity to hear from colleges that are particularly interested in communicating with prospective students of Hispanic heritage.
   
   --Students, as your names are called, please come up front to receive your certificate of recognition.
   
   Douglas Anderson:
   Miguel Lugo
   
   Mandarin:
   Victor Torres
   
   Paxon:
   Nicholas Grimes
   Miguel Bejar
   
   Stanton:
   Al Alonso
   Devon Anthony
   Nikola Dragovic
   Brittany Ford
   Jessica Judge
   Gabriela Marranzini
   Leighanne McGill
   Alicia Norero
   
   --Congratulations and may you have continued success in your future educational endeavors.
   
   
3. PRESENTATION - VSA ART DRIVEN RECOGNITION
   Minutes: --For the sixth year in a row VSA arts and Volkswagen of America, Inc., have partnered to recognize and showcase young artists ages 16-25 with disabilities.
   
   --VSA arts sent more than 20,000 calls for entry to high schools and colleges around the country, inviting submissions that illustrated the theme “Driven.” The call encouraged artists to contemplate the relationship between life, art and disability.
   
   --Driven, a juried art exhibition will be displayed in the capitol through December 2007 and will tour for two years in college and university galleries across the country.
   
   --Last month, during a reception in Washington, D.C., Patti Pogodzinski, a student at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts was honored by the VSA arts, the Kennedy Center, the Smithsonian Institute and Volkswagen of America.
   
   --Patti was selected from more than 204 submissions to be one of 15 finalists to receive $60,000 in awards provided by Volkswagen of America, Inc. Patti received the Award of Excellence which was accompanied by a prize of $2,000 for her piece entitle Penguin.
   
   --Patti’s accomplishment reinforces the school board’s core belief that all Duval County Public Schools’ students can be academically and artistically prepared to reach their dreams.
   
   --Patti, please come up front to receive your certificate.
   
   
4. PRESENTATION - THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF TEACHERS OF ENGLISH ACHIEVEMENT IN WRITING AWARD
   Minutes: --Last month, the National Council of Teachers of English honored 595 high school seniors as outstanding writers in the 2007 National Council of Teachers of English Achievement Awards in Writing.
   
   --These recipients were chosen from 1,937 students nominated in their junior year by their teachers, from the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the Virgin Islands, Canada and American schools abroad.
   
   --The Achievement Awards in Writing program was established in 1957 to encourage high school students in their writing and to recognize publicly some of the best student writers in the nation.
   
   --This year, Brett Lawrence, one of our students at Douglas Anderson School of the Arts was among the students recognized for being one of the country’s most outstanding writers.
   
   --Brett received a certificate recognizing her as a superior writer and cards highlighting her achievement to attach to college application forms.
   
   --Join me as I congratulate Brett on being a recipient of this very prestigious national recognition.
   
   
5. PRESENTATION - PINE FOREST SCHOOL OF THE ARTS BOX CITY
   Minutes: --To celebrate their 150th anniversary, the Jacksonville chapter of the American Institute of Architects, partnered with Pine Forest School of the Arts to build a box city made from simple materials like cardboard boxes, construction paper, markers, scissors and glue.
   
   --This project, sponsored by a grant to bring design education into public schools, provided students with hands-on interdisciplinary experiences that taught students the importance of community planning and design.
   
   --While constructing Boxenville, a replica of Jacksonville, the students at Pine Forest decided what makes a city as well as the type of places they wanted in their city.
   
   --Students at the school held an election in which second grade student, Corey Kreisel, was elected the mayor of Boxenville. Corey also presided over the official ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the school.
   
   --The 1,200 square foot miniature model of Jacksonville was comprised of buildings, roads, sidewalks, parks and landscaping, all surrounding the beautiful St. Johns River, and was displayed at city hall from October 29 through November 2.
   
   --Joining us tonight from the Jacksonville chapter of the American Institute of Architects are Box City Chairman Joanna Rodriguez and President Glenn Dasher.
   
   --Also joining us from the school is the Mayor of Boxenville, Corey Kriesel, art teacher Tish Hubbard, who coordinated the project with Joanna Rodriguez, and Principal Denise Ahearn.
   
   --Please come up front to be recognized for your efforts in ensuring that this project was a success.
   
   
   
6. REPORT - SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT - MR. ED PRATT-DANNALS
   Minutes: It is a privilege to have a contract on the agenda tonight, having served in this district for 31 years. Over the years, I have seen many dedicated people. We know the areas where improvement is needed. This Board focuses on academic achievement, Core Beliefs and Commitments and identifying the following key goals: a dramatic change in eliminating the achievement gap; increasing the students graduating and continuing for academic post secondary education; long term systemic change; good success in short term; a high quality teacher in every classroom and principal at every school; safe schools and safe communities. It's a pleasure working with you at this point and we can agree to disagree. We will focus on policy and programs and always increasing achievement. I look upon the senior staff, principals and teachers who give their lives every day to help struggling students. I am happy to serve as Superintendent. Thank you.
   
   
7. REPORT - FINANCIAL IMPACT OF STATE ACTIONS - MR. STEVE BRIGHT
   Minutes: Speakers:
   Mr. Stephen Bright, Executive Director, Business Services
   Mr. Martin Miller, Miller Consulting Services
   
   Mr. Miller said the legislature met twice this summer for tax proposals to be put on the ballot in January, 2008; passed a resolution that has four parts - $25,000 exemption - does apply to all schools; pulled out of that exemption; category on property value; next fall a tax bill will have two lines; what values apply to school property and other entitites; $1.8 billion dollars - $50 million over the next four years. See Attachment
   
   
8. REPORT - READING REPORT - DR. AMY LINGREN
   Minutes: Reading Adoption
   
   • Process began November 2006
   
   • 3 committees: teachers, coaches, administrators
   
   o Monthly meetings – critical elements of core series
   o Teacher surveys via the web
   o Narrowed choices to 5 publishers
    Harcourt, Houghton-Mifflin, MacMillan-McGraw/Hill Pearson/Scott-Foresman, SRA
   • Summer – formal presentations to the committee and community groups
   • October
   o Narrowed to 3: Houghton-Mifflin, Pearson/Scott Foresman, MacMillan-McGraw/Hill
   o DVD’s to all elementary schools
   o Publisher displays at 8 schools (2 weeks)
   o Input survey – anonymous
    177 attended and reviewed school-based displays (teachers, administrators, community members)
    30 responses from DVD viewers
   o School Board members and Mr. Pratt-Dannals were invited and viewed materials and DVD’s in the district office
   o Executive team of 3 finalist companies met with Mr. Pratt-Dannals and me for a 1 hour interview – our expectations
   
   • November
   o Final review committee formed
   (careful screening – no previous relationship with publisher; involved in entire process from the beginning)
   o Review and discuss feedback
   o Thorough analysis of components/criteria met
   
   • December
   o Preliminary recommendation at Board Workshop
   
   • January
   o Formal recommendation to the Board at the January meeting for your action
   
   Implementation Progress – Major Initiatives in Reading Support
   
   • Read 180 and Fast ForWord going well! MASSIVE IMPLEMENTATION
   o Regular comprehensive reports by school
   (show FF)
   o go to District office, cluster administrators, principals
   • Learned from our past mistakes – too big for district/school staff alone
   • Contract: regular company support 24/7 in person on the grnd monitor and support
   
   Issues – biggest
   • Not low enough - not appropriate for very low ESE readers or non-English speaking
   • ESOL/ELL students need different program and different materials (not appropriate for regular Intensive Reading classes)
   • Too many students in some Intensive Reading classes
   o Staffing and scheduling concerns
   o Addressed on an individual school basis
   
   Positives – students love it! High level of engagement. A middle school principal whose school I visited last week said he really doubted that the independent reading time would work but he as been very happily surprised at the high level of student engagement.
   
   
9. REPORT - TURNAROUND SCHOOLS REPORT - MS. NICHELLE STONE
   Minutes: Ms. Nichelle Stone is our Broad Resident who will be with us for two years. She works with the Superintendent and she has been tasked as the Project Manager for the Turnaround Schools.
   
   Ms. Stone said she'd like to talk about the Turnaround Schools and some structures and added support that we have put in place for them. Dr. Lillie Granger has assisted me in compiling the PowerPoint presentation that we will be showing you. Dr. Granger is available should you have any compliance related questions.
   
   See Attachment
   
   Ms. Burney said a concern of her's is to move from paper to performance. More students need to be included in that designation. There is a disservice when we don't include schools. We must have systemic improvement and provide the same intensive treatment. It doesn't matter where the school is located, either.
   
   
10. REPORT - FACILITIES REPORT - MR. DOUG AYARS
    Minutes: Update on projects: wrapping up on the Science Lab at Fletcher High School; North Shore K-8 to open the summer of 2008; new deisgn for K-8 on the westside of town; closing on the property for the new high school to open in 2010; Capital Plan - new K-5's into design; Andrew Jackson High School's field house; portable program - will provide more information. Later on this month, will provide a preliminary briefing infrastructure - growth management; concurrency, Master Plan; bringing together options in the summer of 2009; plan to be open and inclusive and see what we can do; how we use our facilities; spend capital dollars one time and get savings; keep academic and program integrity in tact. We have a great team and I will brief you later this month on the process and receive your input.
    
    Speakers:
    Ms. Brenda Priestly Jackson, Board Member
    Mr. Doug Ayars, Chief Operating Officer, Operations
    Mr. Tommy Hazouri, Board Member
    Mr. Paul Soares, Chief Officer, Operations Support
    
    

Approval of Minutes

1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
   Minutes: That the Duval County School Board approve the following minutes:
   
   October 2, 2007 - Board Workshop
   October 2, 2007 - Regular Meeting
   October 2, 2007 - Leasing Corporation
   October 4, 2007 - Board Workshop
   October 16, 2007 - Special Meeting - Student Expulsion
   October 16, 2007 - Board Workshop
   October 16, 2007 - Special Meeting
   October 17, 2007 - Special Meeting - reconvened
   October 22, 2007 - Professional Services Subcommittee
   October 25, 2007 - Special - reconvened
   
   
   Vote Results: PASS
   
     Motion: Nancy Broner
     Second: Tommy Hazouri
   
     Martha Barrett - Aye
     Kristanna Barnes - Aye
     Nancy Broner - Aye
     Vicki Drake - Aye
     Brenda Priestly Jackson - Aye
     Betty Burney - Aye
     Tommy Hazouri - Aye
   

Approval of Consent Agenda
 Vote Results: PASS

  Motion: Nancy Broner
  Second: Tommy Hazouri

  Martha Barrett - Aye
  Kristanna Barnes - Aye
  Nancy Broner - Aye
  Vicki Drake - Aye
  Brenda Priestly Jackson - Aye
  Betty Burney - Aye
  Tommy Hazouri - Aye

1. Curriculum and Instructional Services

1. AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE-DRIVER SAFETY TRUST FUND GRANT AWARD
2. PURCHASE OF SUPPLEMENTARY ELEMENTARY MATHEMATICS WORKBOOKS FOR ALL TITLE I ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
3. PURCHASE OF SOFTWARE LICENSES FOR GIZMOS

1. MONTHLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
2. ADOPTION OF BUDGET RESOLUTIONS
3. SURPLUS PROPERTY RETIREMENT REPORT

1. PER CAPITA AND EXAMINATION FEES
2. ELECTRICAL SUPPLIES
3. MAINTENANCE RENEWAL - SAP SOFTWARE
4. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STAFF AUGMENTATION

1. HUMAN RESOURCE SERVICES EMPLOYEE TRANSACTIONS
2. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
3. SUSPENSIONS WITHOUT PAY

1. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY AT NORTH SHORE NO.70 (FAISON)
2. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY AT NORTH SHORE NO.70 (GILFILLAN)
3. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY AT NORTH SHORE NO.70 (GRIFFIN)
4. ACQUISITION OF PROPERTY AT NORTH SHORE NO.70 (HAMILTON)
5. EASEMENT TO FDOT AT DUNCAN U. FLETCHER MS NO. 63
6. TEMPORARY EASEMENT AT JACKSONVILLE BEACH ES NO. 144
7. EASEMENT TO THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE AT FIRST COAST HS NO.265
8. PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT WITH COJ AT CRYSTAL SPRINGS ES
9. STAFF PARKING LOT AT ROBERT E. LEE HS NO.33
10. NEW K-5 SCHOOL NO. 161 (BARTRAM SPRINGS): DP SELECTION AND AWARD
11. NEW K-5 SCHOOL NO. 160 (WATERLEAF): DP SELECTION AND AWARD
12. ANNUAL INSPECTION OF RELOCATABLE BUILDINGS
13. AMEND THE LONG RANGE FACILITIES CAPITAL PLAN
14. PREQUALIFICATION OF CONTRACTORS FOR ED. FAC. CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS
15. FACILITIES SERVICES CONSTRUCTION CHANGE ORDER RPT OCTOBER 2007
16. PLACEMENT: CHARTER SCHOOL APPLICATION FOR PATTERSON ACADEMY FOR THE ARTS - WITHDRAWN
17. NEW ES “B” NO. 142 (CHAFFEE RD): REVISED PROJECT AND PROJECT BUDGET
18. ATHLETIC FACILITIES IMPROVEMENTS AT ANDREW JACKSON HS
    Minutes: Ms. Priestly Jackson said what a wonderful renovation and project - $1.2 million dollars for the athletic facility and it's all a part of the work with the North Shore K-8, as well. I appreciate, Mr. Superintendent, your work, and Mr. Ayars' and his staff...the community involvement during this is a model that should be replicated. It's a wonderful project and Mr. Hazouri's alma mater!
    
    Mr. Hazouri said he's so proud of it and that Lee and Jackson High Schools are playing Thursday night, too.
    
    

Agenda
1. Board Members'

1. SELECTION OF W. E. (ED) PRATT-DANNALS AS SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
   Minutes: Ms. Barnes said that the community has said in their comments that you, Mr. Pratt-Dannals, have been with us through everything we've gone through during the last three years - eliminating the achievement gap, and I do honestly believe that we could not have gone outside and done a search and found someone more qualified to come in and help us continue on the path that we are on together. I am very proud that you have accepted the job, and not sure why you would have, but I'm proud that you have accepted the offer and look forward to all of us working together in the next few years...actually, I have only one more year.
   
   Ms. Broner said she'd like to add a couple of comments and some repeats and thoughts that I shared at our workshop. When we did go out and do a national search, Mr. Pratt-Dannals was one of our finalists, so we have searched far and wide and we know that many districts would covet the leadership of Mr. Pratt-Dannals. We're very blessed to have you here, but as we explored our options and we knew it was incumbent upon us to be very thorough in our thinking, I made some notes about what I thought our district needed at this time in our history. The district needs stability; the opportunity to implement the reforms that have been brought by the Board in the past few years; we need the district to have confidence in the leadership of the district; we need a leader that the principals and teachers will follow; and a leader who shares our Core Beliefs and Theory of Action, and as a matter of fact, Mr. Pratt-Dannals, and this has already been mentioned, was with us as we developed those Core Beliefs and he wrote our Theory of Action, so he very much shares our thinking, Core Beliefs and our vision. We have heard overwhelming support from the community and teachers...many, many comments from our community and though he may seem mild mannered, don't be fooled. He has a backbone of steel when it comes to moving this district forward so I'm very much looking forward to working with you.
   
   Ms. Priestly Jackson said ditto...I think that what I went back to emotionally was just looking at statutory reference and duties and responsibilities of the district Superintendent and being able to say with hope and anticipation that one of the responsibilities is working together. We have maintained for a long time that 8 of us form a "brain thrust" which is strength and has historically been our ability to work together and I believe under Mr. Pratt-Dannals' leadership, we'll have an opportunity to do that. When we each had our meetings with him, I shared with him that I'm looking forward to getting back to those things that we all bring a passion to and that was the beauty of what we did. I am encouraged by the ability to do that and, we each hold what we call "placeholders" so we represent distinct communities that must have a voice at the table and I believe that these 8 individuals will have the opportunity to share their views on how to make public education better for all. That is by far the most important thing. I look forward to that open, responsive, respectful, ethical leadership that you will bring to the district and a chance for us all to exhale and move about making certain our young people are prepared to move Jacksonville to the next century.
   
   Mr. Hazouri said Mr. Pratt-Dannals knows us probably better than we know ourselves, by now. He was going to be a preacher when he was growing up and I think that adds to alot of the credibility in how he deals with us, individually or as a whole. I'm excited about the exhaling that Ms. Priestly Jackson was talking about. Today, we feel this is not the first step but a major step in our efforts to eliminate the achievement gap. To me, you bring everything I want in a Superintendent and that is the ability to be a good administrator, a strong educator and above all to me, a great communicator and I think that's what has been truly lacking lately, for the community, this Board and the direction that we want to go. You hear that relief...that sigh knowing that we're still going to move forward among the teachers and principals. You are very well respected throughout this district and it's great to see that...you stand and deliver and we've very proud!
   
   Ms. Burney said in the hiring and terminating of a Superintendent are two of the most critical and stressful things that take place within a Board and certainly hiring a Superintendent, none of us take lightly. Today, during my meditative moments, one of the things I kept thinking about was the fact that when I look at what we have and where we want to go, I was reminded of something that I always tell young people is that you can get to where you're going from right where you are...and that is what it is with us. We can get to where we're going from right where we are with you as our leader. You articulated five extremely important goals that all of us can wrap our arms around and not only us, but the teachers, school and district staff, and begin to move forward for our students. The most critical factor for me, is the district staff and the school staff. We must make sure that those individuals who impact our students are motivated and that they want to be in our system and that we don't lose them. I believe you are the man who can make sure that we retain and motivate and get our students to where they need to be. I am certainly looking forward to the relationship that's going to develop with the 8 of us. We already have a relationship but I think it's going to be even greater. I said today in a meeting that our Board had worked with the Florida Community College Board and I was very encouraged by what I saw and heard. We are ready and able to move to the next level and I certainly support you as our Superintendent and I invite the community to join us. We're getting ready to do some things for our students and we need everybody. So, join in! The one thing about Ed Pratt-Dannals and I can say this with certainty, he's always willing to listen and help so I appreciate you!
   
   Ms. Barrett said "ditto" to everything. Ed, you are a home-town person; people know your family, friends and neighbors. I've never heard a word against you, ever. I agree that we don't need a search and we've worked and traveled with you throughout the Broad experience. Your staff feels good and the community feels good. You don't play games and you don't pit one against the other. You play fair and you encourage people to reach beyond their limits. I wish you well and the community supports you, too. Congratulations!
   
   Ms. Drake said I echo what my fellow Board members have said. What keeps going through my mind is what the Bible says, "...for everything, there is a season and there is a time" and this is right.
   
   
   Vote Results: PASS
   
     Motion: Nancy Broner
     Second: Betty Burney
   
     Martha Barrett - Aye
     Kristanna Barnes - Aye
     Nancy Broner - Aye
     Vicki Drake - Aye
     Brenda Priestly Jackson - Aye
     Betty Burney - Aye
     Tommy Hazouri - Aye
   

Travel

1. BOARD MEMBERS TRAVEL
   Minutes: That the Duval County School Board approve the following travel for Board members:
   
   WITHDRAW - November 4-6, 2007 - New York, New York - COPs Bond Pricing - Hazouri
   
   December 4-7, 2007 - Tampa, FL - FSBA 62nd Annual Joint Conference - Barnes, Broner, Burney, Drake, Hazouri, Priestly Jackson
   
   
   Vote Results: PASS
   
     Motion: Tommy Hazouri
     Second: Nancy Broner
   
     Martha Barrett - Aye
     Kristanna Barnes - Aye
     Nancy Broner - Aye
     Vicki Drake - Aye
     Brenda Priestly Jackson - Aye
     Betty Burney - Aye
     Tommy Hazouri - Aye
   
2. SUPERINTENDENT'S TRAVEL
   Minutes: That the Duval County School Board approve the following travel for the Superintendent:
   
   December 4-7, 2007 - Tampa, FL - FSBA 62nd Annual Joint Conference
   
   
   Vote Results: PASS
   
     Motion: Tommy Hazouri
     Second: Nancy Broner
   
     Martha Barrett - Aye
     Kristanna Barnes - Aye
     Nancy Broner - Aye
     Vicki Drake - Aye
     Brenda Priestly Jackson - Aye
     Betty Burney - Aye
     Tommy Hazouri - Aye
   

For the Record

1. FOR THE RECORD
   Minutes: Ms. Priestly Jackson announced that Board Member Burney and I are hosting a Community Meeting at Historic Mt. Zion AME Church from 7:00-8:30 pm on Thursday, November 8, 2007. We will call it the people's agenda for public agenda and the opportunity is to receive input from School Board districts 4 and 5 regarding issues and concerns. We've had more schools failing by the state and we've been talking for quite a while about having this community meeting. This is an opportunity for key stakeholders to give us input.
   
   Ribault High School hosted a Safe Night on Halloween which was phenomenal. The community came out fully engaged.
   
   I received an eamil from Carolyn Chapman, Harvard University, about an announcement - no tuition. Please read the email regarding families with less than $50,000 income, Harvard will pay the tuition. This is a wonderful opportunity.
   
   I'd like to mention the support my famility received last montyh which lifted us up. We feel very blessed and honored that so many kept us in your prayers.
   
   Ms. Barnes said a couple of months ago, Ms. Drake, Ms. Barrett and I attended the North Shore K-8 Topping Out party and it was incredible. That is going to be a wonderful facility and I'm thrilled that we're able to consolidate three schools and offer the students a state of the art school.
   
   I saw the new Chaffee Trails Elementary School - a beautiful new school. I hope no teachers or principals in my district visit either of these new schools.
   
   This morning I went to Mt. Herman as they were having their Arts Festival. It's amazing what these children can do with these wonderful people who work with them - a very enjoyable day.
   
   Greenfield Elementary School had a Super Science Saturday and everyone had a great time.
   
   My regular Community Meeting is Tuesday, November 13, 2007 at 6:00 pm at Hogan Spring-Glen Elementary School in the cafeterial. I look forward to your joining us.
   
   Ms. Barrett said she did enjoy the Topping Out party at North Shore K-8 and the opening of Chaffee Trail Elementary School. I attended the Munch Mondays at R. V. Daniels Elementary School where everyone ate fruits and vegetables.
   
   I, too, attended the Mt. Herman ESE Center's Art Festival and it's fantastic what these kids ages 3-22 can accomplish.
   
   On November 30th, Lone Star Elementary Schools is hosting Reader's Day - please join us!
   
   Ms. Burney said she attended Pine Forest Elementary School's Boxville which was more than phenomenal. They created a city and I want to thank the community and stakeholders for their involvement. The "mayor" represented hope and spoke like a young man with dreams.
   
   Ms. Sylvia Johnson talked about the Renaissance Academy and 16 students moved on to high school.
   
   George Washington Carver Elementary School held a Reading Day and men came out to read. Reggie Fullwood read and they really engaged each other.
   
   I want to publicly thank Doug Ayars and Paul Soares regarding the Magnolia Gardens area. They came out and spoke with the senior citizens in making the community safe.
   
   Senator Tony HIll and I will kick off our 5000 Role Model -whereby every male becomes involved with a student.
   
   Ms. Broner thanked the Weavers for the gift of a full-service high school at Sandalwood.
   
   I attended a Town Meeting with Art Graham in Bayard with many motivated people who are most interested in their community regarding services and education. It was most enlightening.
   
   Councilman Art Graham and Mayor John Peyton came out into the beaches community to help our children achieve. A very good turn out.
   
   Mr. Hazouri wished everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving and he's thankful that our district will continue to move forward. He thanked staff for their dedication, facilities, bond issues, cluster chiefs and staffs. He is hopeful for the continuation of the good work that is ongoing. He said thank you to the principals and teachers and we're grateful for all of our employees and especially for our new Superintendent, Ed Pratt-Dannals.. We're very blessed.
   
   Ms. Drake spoke about how much has happened in the last month; all the water that has gone under the bridge is stunning to me. I, too, have had many people express their prayers for me...that has kept us going and lifted us up which has made a huge difference. The schools have continued on and haven't missed a beat. I don't think they missed a ripple. This speaks also to all who are out there working with children. I'm very proud and grateful for the work that you do daily for our children.
   
   This is my last meeting as Chairman and you've done a tremendous job and we're not getting out at midnight. I'll never forget this year and it's been an honor...the work will continue on. This is a great school district and we're headed for great things!
   
   

Adjournment

1. ADJOURNMENT
   Minutes: The meeting adjourned at 8:51 p.m.
   
   lsd