MINUTES OF THE ALABAMA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION
THE STATE OF ALABAMA
THURSDAY, MAY 14, 2009
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA
The Alabama State Board of Education met for its meeting of Elementary/Secondary Education matters on Thursday, May 14, 2009, at 9:32 a.m. in the auditorium of the Gordon Persons Building, Montgomery, Alabama. The meeting was called by the President Pro Tem of the Board in accordance with Alabama Code (1975), §16-3-7, as amended.
PRESIDING: DR. MARY JANE CAYLOR, PRESIDENT PRO TEM
ALABAMA STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION
Following the invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, Dr. Mary Jane Caylor called the meeting to order. On roll call, the following members were present:
Mrs. Ella B. Bell
Mrs. Stephanie Bell
Mr. David F. Byers, Jr.
Dr. Mary Jane Caylor, President Pro Tem
Dr. Ethel H. Hall, Vice President Emerita
Mrs. Betty Peters
Mr. Gary Warren
Absent
Mr. Randy McKinney, Vice President
Governor Bob Riley
Dr. Joseph B. Morton, State Superintendent of Education and Secretary and Executive Officer of the Board, was
present.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Mrs. Betty Peters, the Board unanimously approved the minutes of April 9, 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Ella B. Bell and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously approved the agenda.
On motion by Dr. Ethel H. Hall and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously approved the following:
Announce Intent to Amend Alabama Administrative Code, Chapter, 290-4-1, Education Accountability
On motion by Mrs. Ella B. Bell and seconded by Dr. Ethel H. Hall, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION COMMENDING YUNG THI BUI-KINCER
BOOKER T. WASHINGTON MAGNET HIGH SCHOOL,
MONTGOMERY COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM,
2009-2010 ALABAMA TEACHER OF THE YEAR AND
SECONDARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR
WHEREAS, Yung Thi Bui-Kincer is a revered science teacher at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School in the Montgomery County School System; and
WHEREAS, she is described by her principal as an exceptional and talented educator whose high expectations for her students have increased students’ interest in science; and
WHEREAS, she has faced incredible adversities and obstacles with steadfast resolve and an optimistic spirit, resulting in educational and personal success; and
WHEREAS, her contributions helped bring the youth leadership program, Bridge Builders, to the Montgomery area to teach students to lay down social, economic, and cultural differences for the benefit of all; and
WHEREAS, her personal teaching style inspires and motivates students on a daily basis, spawning passion for careers in research, medicine, physical therapy, and a host of other science-related fields; and
WHEREAS, she is described as an effective leader, motivator, and mentor to her students, and her vision for student learning and ability to achieve results are an asset to the school and school district; and
WHEREAS, her professional associations include the National Science Teachers Association, National Education Association, and the Alabama Education Association; and
WHEREAS, her unique appreciation of the educational opportunities afforded to Alabama students drives her commitment to expect the most from every student and her determination to see that no child takes his/her academic prospects for granted:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education expresses its gratitude to Yung Thi Bui-Kincer for her dedication to education, her commitment to science and learning, and the inspiration that her career has brought to the teaching profession for the benefit of students and teachers in the state.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Mrs. Ella B. Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION COMMENDING SHANNON FINLEY
ALEXANDRIA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL,
CALHOUN COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM,
2009-2010 ELEMENTARY TEACHER OF THE YEAR AND
ALTERNATE ALABAMA TEACHER OF THE YEAR
WHEREAS, Shannon Finley, is an elementary teacher at Alexandria Elementary School in the Calhoun County School System; and
WHEREAS, she is described as an excellent teacher who exemplifies caring, empathy, and dedication to every child she teaches, works continuously to meet her goals, and is always finding new ways to enhance her teaching to meet the needs of her students; and
WHEREAS, her professionalism, supportive nature, and ability to remain calm have earned her respect among her peers, and her commitment to education is an inspiration to all; and
WHEREAS, she has presented numerous workshops, including National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and is the recipient of numerous awards and grants; and
WHEREAS, she seeks to improve or expand programs, including a Science Camp on Force and Motion, and makes the most of every learning experience for students and teachers; and
WHEREAS, she has, in partnership with the school nurse and physical education teacher, initiated a community walking club to help educate students and parents about the necessity of physical education and good nutrition; and
WHEREAS, she is described as a dedicated professional who makes a difference in the lives of her students, peers, parents, and community:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby commend Shannon Finley for her dedication to children and youth, her commitment to excellence, her achievement in the field of education, and the recognition she has brought to the teaching profession for the benefit of students throughout Alabama.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Dr. Ethel H. Hall, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
2009-2010 DISTRICT TEACHERS OF THE YEAR
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education seeks to recognize and encourage excellence in education, both in teaching and learning; and
WHEREAS, the Alabama Teacher of the Year Program is a means of identifying and rewarding some of the state’s outstanding teachers each year; and
WHEREAS, well-trained, dedicated, caring, enthusiastic, and innovative teachers are among the ingredients essential to achieving excellence in preparing Alabama’s children and youth to become capable adults; and
WHEREAS, the following honorees in the 2009-2010 Alabama Teacher of the Year Program exhibit these qualities and more:
District I Elementary Teacher of the Year–Debra S. Howell
Elsie Collier Elementary School, Mobile County Schools
District I Secondary Teacher of the Year–Glen M. Mutchnick
Clark School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology, Mobile County Schools
District II Elementary Teacher of the Year–Nancy Crutchfield
Ogletree Elementary School, Auburn City Schools
District II Secondary Teacher of the Year–Revonda L. Sutton
South Girard School, Phenix City Schools
District III Elementary Teacher of the Year–Shannon Finley
Alexandria Elementary School, Calhoun County Schools
District III Secondary Teacher of the Year–Virginia Ann Valardi
Wetumpka High School, Elmore County Schools
District IV Elementary Teacher of the Year–Ann Marie Corgill
Riverchase Elementary School, Hoover City Schools
District IV Secondary Teacher of the Year–Stephanie Tara Tidwell
Ramsay High School, Birmingham City Schools
District V Elementary Teacher of the Year–Jennifer G. Rodopoulos
Forest Avenue Elementary School, Montgomery County Schools
District V Secondary Teacher of the Year–Yung Thi Bui-Kincer
Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, Montgomery County Schools
District VI Elementary Teacher of the Year–Lisa Ann Hargett
Hayden Elementary School, Blount County Schools
District VI Secondary Teacher of the Year–Cheryl Morrow
Spain Park High School, Hoover City Schools
District VII Elementary Teacher of the Year–Dr. Holly G. Morgan
Memorial Park Elementary School, Jasper City Schools
District VII Secondary Teacher of the Year–Kathy Hays
Cherokee High School, Colbert County Schools
District VIII Elementary Teacher of the Year–Kim Bowen
Rainbow Elementary School, Madison City Schools
District VIII Secondary Teacher of the Year–Madelene M. Marcus
Liberty Middle School, Madison City Schools
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education commends these teachers and expresses its gratitude to each of them for the hard work, sacrifice, dedication, and service to the children and youth of Alabama that have earned them the distinction of District Teachers of the Year.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Dr. Ethel H. Hall and seconded by Mrs. Ella B. Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING CAITLIN CAMPBELL
ALABAMA PUBLIC TELEVISION 2009 YOUNG HERO
WHEREAS, Alabama Public Television established the Young Heroes Awards in 2001 to honor Alabama students in Grades 9-12 who have excelled in academics, given of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character; and
WHEREAS, the recipients of Alabama Public Television’s 2009 Young Heroes Awards have demonstrated courage, determination, volunteerism, and academic excellence, and were selected by a panel of judges from nearly 200 applicants from across the state of Alabama; and
WHEREAS, Caitlin Campbell, Hoover High School, Hoover City Schools, is one of five Alabama Public Television 2009 Young Heroes; and
WHEREAS, Hoover High School senior Caitlin Campbell is a star athlete in three sports – basketball, horseback riding, and swimming – and she competes from a wheelchair; and
WHEREAS, as an infant, Caitlin Campbell was diagnosed with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP), a neurological disorder characterized by progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in the legs and arms; and
WHEREAS, at age 3, Caitlin Campbell began rehab at Lakeshore Foundation, and at age 9 discovered the world of wheelchair basketball while taking a jet ski ride at Camp ASCCA, and by 2008, the team captain was a nationally ranked varsity player; and
WHEREAS, Caitlin Campbell also excels in academics and community service as a member of the National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and her church choir, as a volunteer at Children’s Hospital, encouraging children as they come out of surgery, as a camp counselor at the Lakeshore Foundation Spring Break Camp, and as she leads four-year-olds in Sunday School at Bluff Park United Methodist Church; and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Education’s State Teacher of the Year Program, Alabama’s Young Heroes were honored at a gala awards ceremony at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on May 13, which was broadcast live throughout the state by Alabama Public Television:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby commend Caitlin Campbell for these extraordinary accomplishments and wishes her every success in future endeavors.
Done this 14th of May 2009.
On motion by Mr. Gary Warren and seconded by Mrs. Ella B. Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING CARRIE PARRISH
ALABAMA PUBLIC TELEVISION 2009 YOUNG HERO
WHEREAS, Alabama Public Television established the Young Heroes Awards in 2001 to honor Alabama students in Grades 9-12 who have excelled in academics, given of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character; and
WHEREAS, the recipients of Alabama Public Television’s 2009 Young Heroes Awards have demonstrated courage, determination, volunteerism, and academic excellence, and were selected by a panel of judges from nearly 200 applicants from across the State of Alabama; and
WHEREAS, Carrie Parrish, Waterloo High School, Lauderdale County Schools, is one of five Alabama Public Television 2009 Young Heroes; and
WHEREAS, Waterloo High School senior Carrie Parrish has faced more tragedy in her young life than most people experience in a lifetime, with a string of hardships beginning when her father was diagnosed with lupus and her mother became the family’s sole provider, which left much of the care for Carrie’s father to Carrie and her sister; and
WHEREAS, in her sophomore year, approximately two weeks after gall bladder surgery, Carrie Parrish and her sister were spending the night with a friend when, in the early morning hours, a fire completely gutted the house; and
WHEREAS, everyone escaped without injury, but on Sunday of the same weekend, Carrie and her sister were startled by the sound of smoke detectors in their own home; the sisters escaped, but the house was lost and the family had no insurance to replace their belongings; and
WHEREAS, in the summer after Carrie’s junior year, her mother fell asleep at the wheel of her car and today remains in a semi-comatose state in a nursing home, and Carrie’s father died as she began her senior year in high school; and
WHEREAS, Carrie Parrish has refused to succumb to self-pity or bitterness, is a former catcher on the Lady Cougars softball team, and continues to build her future – maintaining her grades and serving as a sideline assistant for the football team; and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Education’s State Teacher of the Year Program, Alabama’s Young Heroes were honored at a gala awards ceremony at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on May 13, which was broadcast live throughout the state by Alabama Public Television:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby commend Carrie Parrish for these extraordinary accomplishments and wishes her every success in future endeavors.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mr. Gary Warren and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING MARANDA RICKARD
ALABAMA PUBLIC TELEVISION 2009 YOUNG HERO
WHEREAS, Alabama Public Television established the Young Heroes Awards in 2001 to honor Alabama students in Grades 9-12 who have excelled in academics, given of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character; and
WHEREAS, the recipients of Alabama Public Television’s 2009 Young Heroes Awards have demonstrated courage, determination, volunteerism, and academic excellence, and were selected by a panel of judges from nearly 200 applicants from across the state of Alabama; and
WHEREAS, Maranda Rickard, Florence High School, Florence City Schools, is one of five Alabama Public Television 2009 Young Heroes; and
WHEREAS, the music of Florence High School senior Maranda Rickard, an accomplished violinist – the perfect balance of natural talent and dedicated practice – is described by her fans as heavenly; and
WHEREAS, Maranda Rickard and her brother lived in a household of domestic turmoil, ultimately resulting in the divorce of her parents and a period of several months living in a safe house, and much of the family responsibility falls on her shoulders, including holding down a part-time job; and
WHEREAS, Maranda Rickard goes the extra mile to hone her talent and maintain excellent grades, serving as concertmaster for her high school orchestra, playing several times in the All-State Orchestra, and performing regularly with the Peery Center Strings of the University of North Alabama; and
WHEREAS, Maranda Rickard hopes one day to perform with the Shoals Symphony, and gives back to her community by tutoring younger students in the strings program and performing at nursing homes and community events; and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Education’s State Teacher of the Year Program, Alabama’s Young Heroes were honored at a gala awards ceremony at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on May 13, which was broadcast live throughout the state by Alabama Public Television:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby Maranda Rickard for these accomplishments and wishes her every success in future endeavors.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mr. David F. Byers, Jr., and seconded by Mrs. Ella B. Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING TIFFANY SAULS
ALABAMA PUBLIC TELEVISION 2009 YOUNG HERO
WHEREAS, Alabama Public Television established the Young Heroes Awards in 2001 to honor Alabama students in Grades 9-12 who have excelled in academics, given of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character; and
WHEREAS, the recipients of Alabama Public Television’s 2009 Young Heroes Awards have demonstrated courage, determination, volunteerism, and academic excellence, and were selected by a panel of judges from nearly 200 applicants from across the state of Alabama; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Sauls, Asbury High School, Marshall County Schools, is one of five Alabama Public Television 2009 Young Heroes; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Sauls’ parents divorced when she was quite young, her mother was awarded primary custody, and both parents remarried, but Tiffany’s mother began using drugs; as the problem worsened, her mother’s interest in the supervision and care of Tiffany and her younger brother waned; and
WHEREAS, realizing she would have to take action to escape the situation, Tiffany Sauls confided in her father, who initiated another custody battle for his children, but the situation worsened before the case could come to court; and
WHEREAS, two days after Christmas in 2002, 12-year-old Tiffany Sauls called police because she and her brother had been left alone at home and were scared; Tiffany reported her mother’s involvement with illegal drugs; the officers obtained a search warrant, found illegal drugs and paraphernalia, and arrested Tiffany’s mother and stepfather; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Sauls and her younger brother were remanded to their father’s custody, but would endure months of painful court testimony before their father was awarded permanent custody; and
WHEREAS, in the years since this tragic episode, Tiffany Sauls has dedicated herself to the legal protection of children in similar situations as a member of Students Against Destructive Decisions (SADD) and the Drug Free Marshall County Program, and working with a team, including her stepmother, to draft legislation to revise and strengthen laws pertaining to custody and visitation rights for children whose parents are addicted to methamphetamine; and
WHEREAS, Tiffany Sauls has excelled in her studies, is a member of numerous clubs and organizations, including the National Honor Society, and competes on the Asbury High School basketball and softball teams; and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Education’s State Teacher of the Year Program, Alabama’s Young Heroes were honored at a gala awards ceremony at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on May 13, which was broadcast live throughout the state by Alabama Public Television:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby commend Tiffany Sauls for these accomplishments and wishes her every success in future endeavors.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Dr. Mary Jane Caylor and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING PABLO ZUNIGA
ALABAMA PUBLIC TELEVISION 2009 YOUNG HERO
WHEREAS, Alabama Public Television established the Young Heroes Awards in 2001 to honor Alabama students in Grades 9-12 who have excelled in academics, given of themselves through public service, overcome adversity, or inspired others through their deeds and strength of character; and
WHEREAS, the recipients of Alabama Public Television’s 2009 Young Heroes Awards have demonstrated courage, determination, volunteerism, and academic excellence, and were selected by a panel of judges from nearly 200 applicants from across the state of Alabama; and
WHEREAS, Pablo Zuniga, Collinsville High School, DeKalb County Schools, is one of five Alabama Public Television 2009 Young Heroes; and
WHEREAS, Collinsville High School senior Pablo Zuniga is described as an artist, a caretaker, an industrious worker, and a friend to others, who serves his community by translating for Hispanic students and guiding new students on campus tours; and
WHEREAS, Pablo Zuniga’s mother deserted the family when Pablo and his sister were young and his family lived in difficult conditions, including a period residing in a farm silo, and today, while their father works in another town, Pablo and his sister live with and care for their adopted and severely arthritic grandmother; and
WHEREAS, Pablo Zuniga runs the household and helps to care for his grandmother and sister, taking responsibility for getting her to school and church while his father is away; and
WHEREAS, Pablo Zuniga’s young life has been impacted by extraordinary hardships but he has not let a background of poverty, abuse, and neglect hamper his studies and his dreams for the future; the gifted artist plans to attend college and major in art or industrial engineering; and
WHEREAS, in conjunction with the Alabama Department of Education’s State Teacher of the Year Program, Alabama’s Young Heroes were honored at a gala awards ceremony at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre on May 13, which was broadcast live throughout the state by Alabama Public Television:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby commend Pablo Zuniga for these accomplishments and wishes him every success in future endeavors.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Ella B. Bell and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF SIDNEY LANIER HIGH SCHOOL BLUE AND WHITE NEWSPAPER, MONTGOMERY COUNTY SCHOOLS,
FIRST PLACE WITH SPECIAL MERIT
2008-2009 AMERICAN SCHOLASTIC PRESS ASSOCIATION AWARDS
WHEREAS, The Blue and White, the school newspaper of the Sidney Lanier High School Poets, was named the best high school newspaper in the nation by the American Scholastic Press Association; and
WHEREAS, The Blue and White has won First Place with Special Merit in the 2008-2009 American Scholastic Press Association Awards for schools with a student population from 1,001 to 1,700; and
WHEREAS, this is the second time in the last nine years that The Blue and White has received this honor; and
WHEREAS, each school newspaper is scored on a point system within its classification and only those publications with special and outstanding design and content may receive a First Place with Special Merit Award; and
WHEREAS, a national panel of educators who are experienced faculty advisers for scholastic publications judge style, format, contents, presentability, page design, story layout, graphics, headlining, cover design, advertising placement, and photography for this award:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby commend the hardworking student journalists of The Blue and White, Sidney Lanier High School in the Montgomery County School System, Principal Bobby Abrams, and Faculty Sponsor Mary Ann Klatt.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Ella B. Bell and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION RECOGNIZING WESTSIDE ELEMENTARY SCHOOL,
DEMOPOLIS CITY SCHOOLS,
ALABAMA'S EXEMPLARY READING PROGRAM AWARD RECIPIENT,
INTERNATIONAL READING ASSOCIATION
WHEREAS, the International Reading Association is a professional membership organization dedicated to promoting high levels of literacy for all by improving the quality of reading instruction, disseminating research and information about reading, and encouraging the lifetime reading habit; and
WHEREAS, the International Reading Association’s 80,000 members include classroom teachers, reading specialists, consultants, administrators, supervisors, university faculty, researchers, psychologists, librarians, media specialists, and parents worldwide; and
WHEREAS, the International Reading Association sponsors the Exemplary Reading Program Award to recognize outstanding reading and language arts programs, and only one school in each participating state is selected annually to receive the award; and
WHEREAS, Westside Elementary School, in the Demopolis City School System, was selected to receive the 2009 Exemplary Reading Program Award for the state of Alabama; and
WHEREAS, the Exemplary Reading Program Award honors Westside Elementary School’s outstanding reading program with outstanding administrators, teachers, and support staff working collaboratively to improve reading scores and instilling a love for reading in the hearts of children; and
WHEREAS, the Exemplary Reading Program Award is a great honor for Westside Elementary School and Demopolis City Schools, and their quest for reading excellence was recognized at the 54th Annual IRA Convention in Minneapolis:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby recognize Westside Elementary School in the Demopolis City School System for receiving the highly acclaimed International Reading Association’s Exemplary Reading Program Award.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Dr. Ethel H. Hall, the Board unanimously adopted the following:
RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF THE SYLACAUGA COMMUNITY FOR ITS RECOGNITION BY THE AMERICA’S PROMISE ALLIANCE
WHEREAS, the Sylacauga community has built a foundation of effective research and created strategies to prepare students for high school graduation, postsecondary careers, and/or the workforce, and to increase parents’ knowledge and utilization of appropriate and effective parenting techniques while increasing parental involvement; and
WHEREAS, the Sylacauga community has partnered with stakeholders from across Talladega County to provide after-school activities, Saturday school, summer school, a high school transition program, and a credit recovery after-school ACCESS lab in five locations within the Sylacauga City Schools and the Talladega County Schools; and
WHEREAS, youth participating in the programs have demonstrated statistically significant improvements in behavior, academics, attendance, and achievement; and
WHEREAS, the America’s Promise Alliance recognizes communities that have found innovative and collaborative ways to solve problems that will improve the lives of children and young people through the power of the Five Promises: 1) A caring adult in every child’s life; 2) Safe places after-school; 3) A healthy start for a healthy future; 4) Marketable skills through effective education; and 5) Opportunities to serve.
WHEREAS, the America’s Promise Alliance has recognized the Sylacauga community as one of the 100 Best Communities in the Nation for Young People, in part because of its successful dropout prevention programs and the BRIDGES program that provides systemic mechanisms for family improvement; and
WHEREAS, Sylacauga, known as “The Marble City” for having the largest solid deposit of marble in the world, is a 100 Best Communities winner for three consecutive years; and
WHEREAS, according to the America’s Promise Alliance, partnerships, though not marble, are the foundation upon which Sylacauga has built its infrastructure to support the healthy growth and development of its youth and their families utilizing strategic data analysis to define the gaps in services and opportunities and developing successful strategies and activities to address those gaps:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That on this 14th day of May, 2009, the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby state that the Sylacauga, Alabama, community has shown continuing growth and success in the quality of education and is hereby commended for this outstanding accomplishment.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Mrs. Betty Peters, the Board unanimously approved the following:
RESOLUTION TO ADOPT EDUCATEALABAMA AS THE PERSONNEL EVALUATION SYSTEM FOR ALABAMA’S TEACHERS
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education, in 1988, adopted a resolution requiring the evaluation of all professional public education personnel; and
WHEREAS, the State Legislature enacted legislation endowing the Alabama State Board of Education with the full force of the law in regards to personnel evaluation; and
WHEREAS, the Alabama Professional Education Personnel Evaluation (PEPE) Program was developed to address the above enactments; and
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education adopted the Alabama Quality Teacher Standards in 2007; and
WHEREAS, as a result of the adoption of these new standards, a subsequent revision of the PEPE evaluation system was directed; and
WHEREAS, a representative committee of all stakeholder groups was formed to conduct this revision based on the Alabama Quality Teacher Standards:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does accept and adopt the recommendations of the above-referenced committee and retires the current PEPE evaluation system and adopts the EDUCATEAlabama teacher evaluation system to meet the 1988 requirement of personnel evaluation.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Dr. Ethel H. Hall, the Board unanimously approved the following:
RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE CURRENT STUDENT ASSESSMENT PROTOCOL REQUIRING ONLY THE READING AND MATHEMATICS SUBTESTS OF THE STANFORD ACHIEVEMENT TEST, TENTH EDITION, TO BE ADMINISTERED IN GRADES 3 THROUGH 8
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education recognize the need for a meaningful student assessment and accountability program that meets the instructional needs of our schools and our state; and
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama State Department of Education desire to meet the intent of the No Child Left Behind assessment and accountability requirements by assessing all students in Grades 3 through 8 and Grade 11 in the areas of reading and mathematics; and
WHEREAS, the current assessment protocol for the state of Alabama requires the administration of the Stanford Achievement Test, Tenth Edition (Stanford 10), and the Alabama Reading and Mathematics Test (ARMT) that equate to a two-week testing window each spring; and
WHEREAS, the use of the Stanford 10 is only needed to augment the ARMT in the areas of reading and mathematics; and
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education and the Alabama Department of Education desire to make the student assessment program as efficient and instructionally meaningful as possible:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby adopt the requirement that only the Reading and Mathematics subtests of the Stanford 10 be administered in Grades 3 through 8 beginning with the 2009-2010 school year with local school systems retaining the option of administering the total battery if they so desire.
Done this 14th day of May 2009
Before the vote on the Mathematics Course of Study, two individuals (Dr. Gary Martin and Mr. Jack Kale) were permitted to speak before the Board.
Dr. Gary Martin stated that he supported and appreciated the work of the committee and was also pleased with the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative. He felt that there are two mixed messages sent. One is permitting the four credits for two courses by allowing Algebra I A and B and Geometry A and B to count as four credits; and the other is the high school graduation exam continuing to test minimum state standards.
Mr. Jack Kale, an engineer with the Farley Nuclear Plant and committee member, stated that there is a great need for students to be prepared in mathematics and favors extending multiplication facts from 9 x 9 to 12 x 12. He feels this will be more beneficial to students entering the workforce.
Dr. Tommy Bice, Deputy State Superintendent, recognized Dr. Vonda Beaty, Chair of the Mathematics Course of Study Committee, committee members, as well as State Department of Education staff who assisted the Committee. He stated that this was a 21-member committee who had done a thorough job. Communication had been conducted on the state and national levels on the development of the Mathematics Course of Study. Board members were informed that this would be a good document for the state.
The Board members approved the Course of Study for Mathematics as recommended by the Course of Study Committee with one addition, as proposed by the State Superintendent; include all multiplication tables through 12 in Grade 3.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Dr. Ethel H. Hall, the Board approved the following.
RESOLUTION FOR ADOPTION OF
MATHEMATICS COURSE OF STUDY
WHEREAS, Title 16, Chapter 35, Section 3, of the Code of Alabama, 1975, requires the State Courses of Study Committees to prepare the contents of the courses of study for each grade of the elementary and secondary schools; and
WHEREAS, the reports of the committees’ recommendations with respect to the compulsory minimum content of courses of study and of recommended revisions of courses, materials, subject content, and treatment in specific courses in such areas are required; and
WHEREAS, said law requires that the reports be submitted to the State Superintendent of Education and to members of the State Textbook Committee for separate written recommendations to the Alabama State Board of Education; and
WHEREAS, the State Superintendent of Education has reviewed the State Course of Study Committee’s report on Mathematics and recommends its adoption:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the attached report by the State Course of Study Committee on Mathematics is approved by the Alabama State Board of Education on May 14, 2009.
Done this 14th of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Dr. Ethel H. Hall, the Board unanimously approved the following:
RESOLUTION TO
APPOINT SUBSTITUTE MEMBERS TO THE
SOCIAL STUDIES STATE COURSE OF STUDY COMMITTEE
WHEREAS, Code of Alabama (1975), §16-35-1, through 5, provides that the Alabama State Board of Education shall constitute a Courses of Study Committee for the purposes and functions as provided within the statute; and
WHEREAS, the Alabama State Board of Education appointed 21 members to the Social Studies State Course of Study Committee at its December 11, 2008, meeting; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Randy Dudley from the second congressional district, Mr. Bruce Powell from the fourth congressional district, Ms. Amy Fineburg from the sixth congressional district, Ms. Memory Tittle from the fourth congressional district, Mr. Phillip Tigue from the third congressional district, and Mr. Michael Lovorn from The University of Alabama resigned their positions on this committee; and
WHEREAS, the Social Studies Course of Study Committee needs a secondary teacher member representing the second congressional district; a secondary teacher member representing the fourth congressional district; a secondary teacher member representing the sixth congressional district, an elementary teacher member representing the fourth congressional district; an elementary teacher member representing the third congressional district; and a higher education member from the state at-large; and
WHEREAS, the State Superintendent of Education recommends approval:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That Ms. Susan Anderson of Houston County be appointed to replace Mr. Randy Dudley of Barbour County; Mr. Jimmy Embry of Guntersville City be appointed to replace Mr. Bruce Powell of Marshall County; Mr. Richard Stamper of Hoover City be appointed to replace Ms. Amy Fineburg of Hoover City; Ms. Janie Hillis of Fayette County be appointed to replace Ms. Memory Tittle of Walker County; Ms. Jody South of Talladega County be appointed to replace Mr. Phillip Tigue of Talladega County; and Mr. Howard Robinson of Alabama State University be appointed to replace Mr. Michael Lovorn of The University of Alabama on the Social Studies State Course of Study Committee.
Done this 14th day of May 2009.
On motion by Mrs. Ella B. Bell and seconded by Mrs. Stephanie Bell, the Board unanimously approved the following:
RESOLUTION TO APPROVE A TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAM
Troy University
Troy, Alabama
WHEREAS, a review of a teacher education program was conducted on July 11-14, 2008, October 27-28, 2008, and April 23, 2009, by the State Department of Education in accordance with the Alabama Administrative Code, Rule No. 290-3-3-.56(2)(a)2; and
WHEREAS, compliance with the Alabama State Board of Education program-specific rules has been verified; and
WHEREAS, the State Superintendent of Education recommends approval of the program:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education hereby approves the following program, with approval to expire on May 31, 2012:
Class A Instructional Leadership
On motion by Mrs. Stephanie Bell and seconded by Mrs. Ella B. Bell, the Board voted 7-1 in favor of the following. Mrs. Betty Peters opposed.
RESOLUTION TO PARTICIPATE IN
A STATE-LED COMMON SET OF
STANDARDS IN ENGLISH AND MATHEMATICS
WHEREAS, in order for public education in America to be competitive worldwide, students in the United States must be proficient in English and Mathematics, in addition to several other subjects: and
WHEREAS, the National Governors Association (NGA) and the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) have committed to work together to create a state-led (not a federal government-led) effort to develop a common core of standards in English and Mathematics; and
WHEREAS, any state that participates in development of the common core of standards is not bound to adopt or implement the standards if they are disagreeable with state policies and/or practices:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Alabama State Board of Education does hereby approve the Alabama Department of Education’s participation in the developmental efforts of the NGA/CCSSO in English and Mathematics.
Done, this the 14th day of May 2009.
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Joseph B. Morton informed Board members that during the Legislative Session, the Background Checks law was strengthened. This bill states that two-year and four-year institutions in the state of Alabama must require that applicants for admission to a teacher education program complete a criminal history check as part of the initial application process.
Dr. Morton stated that even with proration at 9 percent, we have had a great school year. The Department is also in a hiring freeze and not permitted to hire personnel either through retirement or transfers. With the recent scare from the H1N1 Virus, Board members were advised that rules have now been relaxed, and schools that were closed are now open.
There being no further business to come before the Board at this time, the regular meeting of the State Board of Education for elementary/secondary education matters adjourned at 10:35 a.m., May 14, 2009.
Vice President
Secretary and Executive Officer
Vice President
Secretary and Executive Officer