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Cape Fear Center for Inquiry
Board of Directors Agenda November 21, 2013- 6:00pm
Nurturing a Sense of Wonder. Cape Fear Center for Inquiry is committed to promoting students’ abilities to think and create in personally meaningful ways through an inquiry-based, integrated curriculum in a nurturing and empowering
environment.
Roll Call Sam Deprisco, Cathey Luna, Lori Roy, Nancy Kachadurian, Julie Sartorius , Leigh Venters (Partnership), Jeanne
Swafford, Joanne Cress, Jeremy Spielman, Marc Mereyde, Missy Ritchie
Time Subject Chair/Presenter Activity
6:00
PM
Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 6:00
Jeanne Swafford Action
6:01 Approval of Minutes: 10/17/13 Missy Ritchie made a motion to approve the minutes from 10/17/13.
Marc Mereyde seconded the motion.
Jeanne Swafford Action
6:02 Visiting Faculty* NA
TBD Information
6:07 Visiting Parent or Community Members* Bill Orton – visiting community member/board applicant
TBD Information
6:10 Who We Are- TBD Information
6:20 Partnership Committee Report
Fund the Wonder has made 2,980 so far with a goal of 8,000
Next book fair is in the spring. 4,656.51 was made at the fall book
fair. Our profit was 1,164.15.
Holiday Festival is 10-2 on December 7th
Tue & Wed prior – pre-sale tickets
December meeting will be held through email
Leigh Venters Information
6:30
Life Long Learning Committee Report
Parent Night rescheduled due to perspective parent information nights
Faculty will decide a Tuesday date
1/24 Professional Development – survey going out via survey monkey
for faculty to respond to
Rene Lemons will look into CFCI hosting a Responsive Classroom
summer training (site)
Jennifer
Paetzold
Information
6:40 Director’s Report Audit Report
Kathy – Jay Sharpe (auditor) presenting our financial statements
Audit is complete and statements are being prepared. Waiting on
one item (waiver from the bank) to finish before issuing.
Single/compliance audit – bc we receive state and federal funds
State, federal and general funds (3 types of funds)
Net over 2.1 million (by the end of 2013)
1.6 capital assets
Lori Roy
Information/
Discussion/
2
500K unrestricted net position
2 ½ months in reserve, 92% rev state and county sources
instructional – 80% went towards this
Appropriations have gone down since 2008 recession
Waiver will have no impact on results
75-76K in profits to meet the ratio
18K last year profits
2012-2013 Testing Results
Released on Nov 7th school reports are going home tomorrow
(Friday, Nov 22)
Big changes this year due to Common Core
In proportion to standing with other schools we are right where we
usually are.
89 -> 66% drop this year
Proficiency is for students who scored a 3 or 4
Met school growth this year
AMOs (Annual Measureable Objectives) – met 13/13 federal and
17/17 state
10 Year Renewal Review
Sent to board via email. – Has received some feedback – No
questions from board. Has to be submitted by December 6th. Lori’s
goal is tomorrow.
SRO matching grant opportunity. 2-1 matching. Deadline is
December 12th for those interested. People are generally feeling
comfortable and safe around CFCI, there have only been a few
inquiries from parents.
Missy – if we opt out now and want to apply down the road is that
possible? Lori – not sure, dependent upon funding, intention to
fund. Cathey – in NHC schools? Jeremy – is the presence necessary?
Nancy – the presence – uncomfortable
$ on salary – there are some safety things needed around the
building to invest where we could use that money
When we brought in the emergency response team we made
improvements upon their suggestions
general feeling is that we are in a safe environment
Open Enrollment begins December 9, 2013
Meetings start in January for new parents. New law -
enrollment period should last for 30 days
Standing Committee Reports:
7:10 Finance October Budget Report
33% of the year, 31% of budgeted funds
Action Item -
Kathy Rettig Information/
Discussion/
Action
3
Jeremy Spielman – make a motion to put an action item for approval
of 6K for Traffic Impact Analysis
Marc Mereyde- seconded the motion
6-A 0-N City – updated traffic impact analysis – we have to do a complete
one as of this week. Will cost $6000 (non-optional)
Cathey L. – Can we take to city council? Kathy will forward
information to Cathey Luna and Marc Mereyde to contact
appropriate individuals.
Cathey made a motion to contact city council and, if not approved,
move forward with the TIA at the cost of 6K
Missy Ritchie seconded the motion
6-A 0-N
Access Points
K-3, 4-5 struggling with wireless, Paul Allen suggested we buy more
access points at the cost of $3500
Office software $960 – 24 classroom computers missing
Cathey Luna made a motion to approve 3500 for access point and
960 for office software
Missy Ritchie seconded the motion
5-A 0-N
Faculty, staff and board need to look closer at the technology budget
for the future. More laptop carts have been purchased, etc - testing
the limits of our wireless
Need to consider what a technology budget should be for CFCI
Building Update (Kathy)
K-3 playground – erosion is affecting our fence and area, perimeter
path section (awaiting finding out about Lowe’s grant)
Work on Wilmington – submitted request for labor for section of
perimeter path that Marc wrote the grant for materials.
Marc Mereyde – will know by the end of January on the status of
the grant
7:20 Executive Committee December Board Meeting and Social- action
Meeting at Holiday Festival – 11:30 on December 7th Social – December 12th (Thursday) 6:30 at Lori’s – potluck
Board Member Elections- information/discussion Cathey Luna – made a motion to go into closed session Missy Ritchie – seconded the motion Marc Mereyde – made the motion to come out of closed session Cathey Luna – seconded the motion 5-A 0-N
Jeanne
Swafford Information/
Discussion/
Action
4
7:35 Policy and Procedure Review Lottery changes – 1) legacies – completed highest grade level,
completed at least 4 grade levels – sibling would be priority 4
2) Students who were enrolled for at least 2 years by left for
vocational opportunities, study abroad, etc – 5th priority
3) priority #2 – from the state - full-time employees priority (omits
part-time)
Cathey Luna – made a motion to approve the 3 changes to the
lottery procedures and policy 545 employee benefits
Marc Mereyde – seconded the motion
5-A 0-N
Internet Safety –
Company has asked us to document our safety procedures to
continue to receive 40% discount
Cathey Luna – made a motion to approve documentation of safety
procedures in order to receive a 40% discount
Marc Mereyde – seconded the motion
5-A 0-N
Revision to 556 Personal Leave
-deduction for substitute – teacher will not be charged if a substitute
is not needed for that position
-removal (in possible revision) of director approval for days before
or after a holiday or scheduled vacation day –
Remove “or on the day before or the day after a holiday or
scheduled vacation day”
Missy Ritchie – made a motion to approve the removal of “or on the
day before or the day after a holiday or scheduled vacation day”
Samantha DePrisco – seconded the motion
5-A 0-N
Board Background Checks
Conversation started at QENO training - $18 for each
Marc Mereyde – made a motion to approve current and potential
board members will pay $18 for background check
Cathey Luna seconded the motion
5-A 0 N
Volunteer Background Checks
Faculty board members met and presented to entire faculty –
decision at faculty meeting was that we needed to discuss/look
further at this topic, timeline would be for next year (if moving
forward), we felt that parent feedback was needed.
Nancy
Kachadurian
Information/
Discussion/
Action
7:55 Fund Raising/Grant Writing Julie Sartorius Information
5
Committee Report Science/Math grant – PRISM *any NC teacher up to 3K (specifically
hands-on science materials) forwarded to MG and Jennifer P.
Discovery Ed sweepstakes – random drawing in Feb/March *anyone
can enter daily 1 10K 2 5K fitness education (Fit for Ed)
2014 – fall breakfast/brunch possibility of fundraiser – possibly
bringing Bo Dean back to look further at this
Turkey Trot is Monday!
7:55 Strategic Planning No report
Lori Roy
Information
8:00 Other Announcements and/or Upcoming events: Next Executive Committee Meeting TBD Next Board Meeting- Saturday December, 7th 11:30am at the
Holiday Festival. Room: TBD
Jeanne Swafford
Information
Action
8:00 Closed Session for meeting critique (NC statute 143-318.11) Jeanne Swafford Discussion
8:05 Adjournment Cathey Luna made a motion to adjourn the meeting
Missy Ritchie seconded the motion.
Meeting adjourned at 8:00.
Jeanne Swafford Action
Board Agenda Requests: If you would like to request that an item be added to the Board agenda, please e-mail
the Board Vice President, Jeremy Spielman at [email protected] with “CFCI Board Agenda” in the subject
line, or place the request in his box in the main school office. The agenda request must include the subject, a
brief synopsis of what you would like to present, the amount of time requested, any handouts you would like
to distribute, and whether your request is informational, discussion, and/or requests board action.
All requests and materials need to be submitted by noon on the first Friday of the month. Items not received
by this time will not be considered for the following month’s Board meeting. The Board Executive Committee
reserves the right to determine whether the item is added to the agenda, to ask for additional information, or
to redirect the request to an appropriate committee or person.
*Board meetings will be recorded for minute transcription*
1
Cape Fear Center for Inquiry
Board of Directors Agenda November 21, 2013- 6:00pm
Nurturing a Sense of Wonder. Cape Fear Center for Inquiry is committed to promoting students’ abilities to think and create in personally meaningful ways through an inquiry-based, integrated curriculum in a nurturing and empowering
environment.
Roll Call Sam Deprisco, Todd Godbey, Cathey Luna, Lori Roy, Nancy Kachadurian, Julie Sartorius , Leigh Venters
(Partnership), Jeanne Swafford, Indira Grimes, Joanne Cress, Jeremy Spielman, Marc Mereyde, Missy Ritchie
Time Subject Chair/Presenter Activity
6:00
PM
Call to Order Jeanne Swafford Action
6:01 Approval of Minutes: 10/17/13 Jeanne Swafford Action
6:02 Visiting Faculty* TBD Information
6:07 Visiting Parent or Community Members* TBD Information
6:10 Who We Are- TBD Information
6:20 Partnership Committee Report
Leigh Venters Information
6:30
Life Long Learning Committee Report
Jennifer Paetzold Information
6:40 Director’s Report Audit Report
2012-2013 Testing Results
10 Year Renewal Review
Open Enrollment begins December 9, 2013
Lori Roy
Information/
Discussion/
Standing Committee Reports:
7:10 Finance October Budget Report Access Points Office software
Kathy Rettig Information/
Discussion/
Action
7:20 Executive Committee December Board Meeting and Social- action
Board Member Elections- information/discussion
Jeanne Swafford Information/
Discussion/
Action
7:35 Policy and Procedure Review Committee Report Lottery Procedures Policy 545 Employee Benefits Policy 825 Internet Safety Volunteer/ Board background check discussion
Nancy
Kachadurian
Information/
Discussion/
Action
2
7:55
Fund Raising/Grant Writing Committee Report
Julie Sartorius Information
7:55 Strategic Planning No report
Lori Roy
Information
8:00 Other Announcements and/or Upcoming events: Next Executive Committee Meeting TBD Next Board Meeting- TBD
Jeanne Swafford
Information
Action
8:00 Closed Session for meeting critique (NC statute 143-318.11) Jeanne Swafford Discussion
8:05 Adjournment Jeanne Swafford Action
Board Agenda Requests: If you would like to request that an item be added to the Board agenda, please e-mail
the Board Vice President, Jeremy Spielman at [email protected] with “CFCI Board Agenda” in the subject
line, or place the request in his box in the main school office. The agenda request must include the subject, a
brief synopsis of what you would like to present, the amount of time requested, any handouts you would like
to distribute, and whether your request is informational, discussion, and/or requests board action.
All requests and materials need to be submitted by noon on the first Friday of the month. Items not received
by this time will not be considered for the following month’s Board meeting. The Board Executive Committee
reserves the right to determine whether the item is added to the agenda, to ask for additional information, or
to redirect the request to an appropriate committee or person.
*Board meetings will be recorded for minute transcription*
CFCI FINANCIAL DASHBOARD
As of October 31st we have completed 33% of the fiscal year and spent 31% of our budgeted funds.
D
Revenue Fund Balance YTD Expense
0.00
500,000.00
1,000,000.00
1,500,000.00
2,000,000.00
2,500,000.00
2011 2012 2013 2014
State
Local
Federal
0.00
200,000.00
400,000.00
600,000.00
800,000.00
1,000,000.00
1,200,000.00
1,400,000.00
2010 2011 2012 2013 2014
Fund Balance
77%
23%
Budgeted
Spent
CFCI Meeting Minutes
Please delete what is not used of the form and condense to as few pages as possible or cut and paste more I. II. III. if more topics are needed on the minutes. Please attach agenda if there is one. Board committees please send electronically to Director. All others should be posted in teachers room.
Finance Committee
Meeting Agenda
November 12, 2013
Present: Lori Roy, Harden Barker, Marc Mereyde, Joanne Cress
Next meeting: December 9th, 2013
.
I. Topic
Budget reports presented
II. Discussion
If you have any questions please send them to Kathy
I. Topic
Access Points
II. Discussion
Our K-3 classrooms, particularly 2-3 and our 4-5 classrooms are
having trouble getting classes and small groups online. When they do get online, many students are getting kicked back off or the network
moves painfully slow. Mr. Allen, IT Support Specialists recommends that we increase the number of access points as we did in the 6-8
areas earlier this school year.
The Executive Committee did bring some questions to the table at their meeting that have been forwarded to Mr. Allen and will be
addressed at the Board Meeting 11/21/13.
III. Action or Request (if any)
Finance recommends the approval of $3500.00 for Access Points
I. Topic
Microsoft Office 2007
II. Discussion
24 classroom computers are missing the Microsoft Office software. Finance discussed Google Docs/Online programs versus Office.
Reliability and the program’s ability to perform more complex tasks are important in decision. Cost is $180 per 3 computers which is
$960.
CFCI Meeting Minutes
Please delete what is not used of the form and condense to as few pages as possible or cut and paste more I. II. III. if more topics are needed on the minutes. Please attach agenda if there is one. Board committees please send electronically to Director. All others should be posted in teachers room.
III. Action or Request (if any)
Finance recommends the approval of $960.00 to provide Microsoft Office for the computers.
Topic
Technology Budgeting
II. Discussion
Finance recommends that we (staff and board) take a serious look at
our technology budget in planning for next year and future years. We need to consider maintenance and upkeep as a priority, but also
growth and future technology for classrooms.
CFCI Meeting Agenda
Curriculum Committee
Lifelong Learning Committee
Date: 11-12-13
Present: Tracy Pena, Jennifer Gallo, Rene Lemons, Jennifer Paetzold Visitors: Next meeting: December 10, 2013
I. Topic: Parent Night January 13, 2014
Discussion
Introduction session; Common Core video, define inquiry Break-out sessions; social studies, science, math, a special??? Depending on interest
Conclusion; share out key learning points, A star and a wish Suzy Boyko: sample student work or video of an inquiry activity etc.
Date change…parent info night on 14th that wasn’t on calendar previously
Action or Request (if any) Looking at date change, Tuesday in February. Will put dates up for vote at next faculty meeting.
II. Topic: January 24th PD
Discussion Requests from faculty: inquiry, social curriculum, AIG/above grade learners-meeting their needs more effectively. Requests taken from teachers and last faculty meeting.
Action or Request (if any) Will put out a survey to all faculty to get feedback regarding topics wanted/needed.
III. Topic Responsive Classroom—use CFCI as a summer training site
Discussion Anyone interested in working to fill-out applications, etc. to have CFCI become a summer training site?
Rene Lemons agreed to take on the role and investigate and apply CFCI for this.
Action or Request (if any) Rene will contact a Responsive classroom rep. Jennifer will pass along contact information.
Partnership Minutes for November 2013 -Fund the Wonder has made 2,980.00 so far. Our goal is 8,000.00. -The Chili's Night for Second grade made 70.00 and the First Grade class made 80.00 -We made 4,656.51 at the Book Fair. Our profit from that is 1,164,15. Our next Book Fair will be this Spring. -The Holiday Festival will be on Saturday, December 7th. It will be from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. Activities include Llama Rides,a Bounce House, Trolley Stop Hot Dogs ,a Popcorn Machine and other activities thru out the school. There will also be baskets to be raffled and won. -Our next meeting will be thru e-mail for the month of December.
DRAFT REVISION 11-7-13 DRAFT REVISION 11-7-13 DRAFT REVISION 11-7-13 Admissions Admission to the school is based on a lottery system. There will be a random drawing of lottery numbers to establish enrollment and waiting lists. Maximum class size limits of 18 students in each K and 1st grade class, 20 in each 2nd and 3rd grade class, and 22 in each 4th – 8th grade class will determine the numbers of students allotted for each class. A waiting list will be established using the lottery system whenever capacity is exceeded and the students on the list will be contacted if and when openings occur in the current school year only. The waiting list does not roll over to the following school year. A new application must be completed and turned in to the main school office each school year to be included in the lottery. The following exceptions and priorities to the lottery and admissions process may be made each year, in accordance with the 1997 amendments to G.S. 115C-238.29 and House Bill 250 (2013). PRIORITY #1, Currently enrolled students. PRIORITY #2, Children of fulltime CFCI faculty/staff members. Fulltime faculty/staff that are hired after the lottery may have their children added to the top of the waiting list or administratively enrolled, up to the 20th day of school. PRIORITY #3, Siblings of currently enrolled students. Siblings are defined as brother or sister, half-brother, half-sister, stepbrother, stepsister or foster child who resides in the same household as the currently enrolled student. PRIORITY #4, Siblings of students who have completed the highest grade level offered by CFCI and who were enrolled in at least four grade levels offered by CFCI. PRIORITY #5, Students who were enrolled in CFCI within the two previous school years but left the school to participate in an academic study abroad program or a competitive admission residential program or because of the vocational opportunities of the student’s parent.
PROCEDURES FOR USE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
IN SCREENING CANDIDATE APPLICATIONS
FOR CFCI BOARD OF DIRECTOR POSITIONS
1. All candidates must submit a complete application to the board secretary at least 5
days prior to the election date. This allows sufficient time for review, distribution
and completion of a criminal background check.
2. The board secretary will collect all applications and review them for completeness.
Once reviewed, the secretary will forward the complete applications to the CFCI
Human Resources Coordinator (HRC) .
3. The board secretary will forward a copy of each application to all current board
members for review prior to the day of the election.
4. The HRC will conduct a criminal background check on each applicant with a
complete application.
5. If convictions or other significant information is revealed in the criminal
background check that was not explained on the application, the HRC will contact
the applicant and give the applicant the opportunity to amend the application.
6. If the applicant declines the opportunity to provide any explanation, the candidate
will be disqualified. The HRC will inform the board secretary the name of the
disqualified candidate. The board secretary will then inform other board members
to remove that candidate’s application from further consideration
7. If the applicant does provide any additional written information through the process
described in #5, that written information will be given by the HRC to the board
secretary. The board secretary will then forward that information to all board
members.
8. The HRC will maintain a file of all criminal background checks in a confidential
and secure manner. Copies of background checks of nonelected candidates will be
destroyed.
The Cape Fear Center for Inquiry
Board of Directors Applicant Authorization for Release of Information
I authorize the North Carolina Department of Justice through the State Bureau of Investigation, Division of Criminal
Information to perform a North Carolina History Records Information Check in connection with my application for
election to the CFCI Board of Directors pursuant to N.C.G.S. 114-91.2. I understand that the North Carolina State Bureau
of Investigation, Division of Criminal Information, and its officials and employees shall not be held legally accountable in
any way for providing this information to The Cape Fear Center for Inquiry, and I hereby release said agency and persons
from any and all liability which may be incurred as a result of furnishing such information.
The undersigned applicant hereby expressly authorizes the CFCI Board, its agents, and its employees to make any
investigation of my personal or employment history, expressly including, but not limited to, federal and/or state criminal
law enforcement, or traffic records. I further authorize any former employer, person, firm, corporation, credit agency,
administrative body or governmental agency to give to the Board, its agents, or its employees, any information they may
have regarding me in consideration of the review of my Board of Director application by the Board, its members, officers,
agents, or its employees. I hereby release the Board and any and all providers of information whom this release is sent,
from any liability as a result of furnishing or receiving this information. A copy of this consent and release shall be
considered as duplicate original.
Last Name First Middle Maiden ________________________ _______________ _______________ _______________ (Print or type)
Social Security Number Date of Birth Sex Race
________________________ _______________ _______________ _______________
Current Address______________________________________________________________________
____________________________________________________________________________________
Background Information
Please check the appropriate answer:
Yes No
___ ___ Have you ever been convicted of any violation of the law other than a minor traffic ticket?
___ ___ Do you have criminal charges or procedures pending?
If you answer yes to any of the above questions, please explain on a separate page and include with this
application. Applications without such explanation will not be considered. Failure to disclose convictions
will result in disqualification for candidacy for CFCI Board of Directors.
I have read the information contained in the application and any addendums carefully, and certify that the information that
I have given is correct and complete. I understand that if I am elected to the CFCI Board of Directors, any false
statements or omissions of facts on this application may be considered sufficient cause for removal. Information in this
application, including the results of any background check, may be shared with current CFCI Board of Directors. This
application will be kept confidential. Please be advised that no material sent in to CFCI as a part of this application such
as letters of reference, certificates or licenses will be returned to the applicant.
Signature of Applicant: ____________________________________________ Date: ______________________
The Cape Fear Center for Inquiry is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color,
religion, sex, age, disability, or national origin.
Thank you for your interest in working with the children enrolled in The Cape Fear Center for Inquiry.
PROCEDURES FOR CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
OF CURRENT MEMBERS OF CFCI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
1. All current members of CFCI Board of Directors shall complete an Authorization
for Release of Information form which will allow CFCI administration to conduct a
criminal background check.
2. The designated administrator (currently the Human Resources Coordinator) will
conduct the background check.
3. If the background check reveals no arrests, charges or convictions other than minor
traffic violations, the HRC will retain the document in a secure file until such time that the
individual no longer serves on the CFCI Board of Directors. The document will then be
destroyed.
4. If the background check reveals any arrests, charges or convictions other than minor
traffic violations, the HRC will consult with the CFCI Director to determine if the
information is of such a severe nature that it needs to be shared with the CFCI Executive
Committee.
5. If the Director and HRC determine the information does not rise to the level of
severity that it needs to be shared with the CFCI Executive Committee, the HRC will
retain the document in a secure file until such time that the individual no longer serves on
the CFCI Board of Directors. The document will then be destroyed.
6. If the Director and HRC determine the information does rise to the level of severity
that it needs to be shared with the CFCI Executive Committee, They will contact the CFCI
Board President and make arrangement to meet and share the information with the
Executive Committee. The Executive Committee would then determine the next step.
7. Next steps might include:
-Requesting a written statement from the individual that explains the circumstances
surrounding the arrests, charges or convictions.
-Meeting with the individual to discuss the situation
-Presenting the information to the full board in closed session
8. Background check status of current board members as of 10-31-13:
Jeanne Swafford, President completed
Jeremy Spielman, Vice President not completed
Todd Godbey, Treasurer not completed
Missy Ritchie completed
Marc Mereyde not completed
Cathey Luna- not completed
Samantha Deprisco completed
Leigh Venters not completed
Lori Roy completed
Nancy Kachadurian completed
Julie Sartorius completed
Joanne Cress completed
P P R C MEETING 11-7-13 MINUTES
Members present: Nancy Kachadurian, CFCI Board of Directors representative
Jill Rodzik, parent representative
Lori Roy, CFCI Director
Michael Zentmeyer, designated member
1. Lottery Procedure revisions
A revision of the Lottery Procedures was presented that included several changes and
additions regarding priorities in the system. These proposed changes in priorities reflect
changes in the law passed this year as House Bill 250.
PPRC unanimously supported the attached DRAFT REVISIONS TO LOTTERY
PROCEDURES.
2. Revision to Policy 545 Employee Benefits
Policy 545 Employee Benefits, Section b. Child Placement addresses giving employees a
priority placement in the lottery. The proposed changes indicated by bold italics and
strikethrough reflect the same changes as are proposed in the Lottery Procedures.
PPRC unanimously supported the attached DRAFT REVISION to POLICY 545
3. Revisions to Policy 556 Personal Leave
Policy 556 Personal Leave addresses the use of personal leave for CFCI employees.
House Bill 249 which was passed this summer made some changes to NC Personal Leave
Policy for teachers regarding the deduction for the payment of the substitute. The
proposed changes to CFCI Policy 556 indicated by bold italics and strikethrough would
make our policy mirror the new state policy.
PPRC unanimously supported the attached DRAFT REVISION of POLICY 556.
4. New Policy 825 Internet Safety
CFCI currently benefits from a group rate for internet services which is administrated by
the federal government. This program, called E Rate, allows CFCI to contract for internet
services at a 40% discounted rate. Recently, E Rate created additional expectations for
schools that participate. The expectation is that schools will have policies in place that
insure the use of “technology protection measures” (such as firewalls) and “education,
supervising and monitoring appropriate use of online computer networks” by students.
CFCI currently has several policies that address these issues, but the new Policy 825 uses
specific language required by E Rate. This policy does not add anything new that we are
not already doing, but it does clarify and specify expectations of staff in this area.
PPRC unanimously supported the attached DRAFT of POLICY 825
5. Discussion regarding possible Volunteer Criminal Background Check
Policy
Ms. Roy related discussion regarding the possible development of a policy requiring
criminal background checks for volunteers at CFCI. She shared a discussion guide that
was distributed to staff at their meeting on November 6. Members of PPRC expressed
their opinions and reactions to the items in the guide. After a 15 minute discussion, PPRC
unanimously agreed to recommend to the CFCI Board of Directors that they make every
attempt to gather input from all stakeholders in this matter and to explore all options and
ideas before making any final decisions. A copy of the Discussion Guide is attached to
these minutes.
Attachments: 1. Revision to Lottery Procedures
2. Revision to Policy 545 Employee Benefits
3. Revisions to Policy 556 Personal Leave
4. New Policy 825 Internet Safety
5. Discussion Guide for Policy Requiring
Criminal Background Checks for Volunteers at CFCI
Minutes submitted by M. Zentmeyer
DRAFT REVISION 11-7-13
545 Employee Benefits
a. School Design and Function - A benefit to CFCI employees is the right to be involved in
decisions related to school function, limited only by issues of confidentiality. As well as being a
right, it is a contractual responsibility for faculty to participate in the decision-making processes
that establish policy for the school. Employees also serve as members and/or liaisons to standing
Board committees, being responsible to facilitate communication regarding relevant issues
between Board and faculty.
b. Child Placement - Children of any full time employees of CFCI receive priority placement behind siblings in the lottery process for admission. Children of full time or part time employees retain this benefit.
c. Federal/State Income Tax & Social Security - CFCI withholds federal and state income
taxes for full and part time employees, as per each employee's W-4 and NC4 information.
Employees must complete a W-4 and NC4 upon employment, with a new form completed each
calendar year. Employees also contribute a set amount each month to the Social Security
System. For more information, contact the federal or state department of revenue or the local
Social Security Office.
d. Leave - The leave policy addresses various types of leave, accrual rates and usage guidelines
for those types of leave, as well as rights and responsibilities of the Board and employees
regarding leave. The leave policy is under a separate heading in the Faculty Handbook.
e. Retirement - Full time employees of Cape Fear Center for Inquiry participate in the North
Carolina State Employees Retirement System. Employees who were members of this retirement
system in LEA's where previously employed will have continued membership in the system.
Upon completion of forms at CFCI, new hires will be enrolled upon employment and are
responsible for completing an enrollment form.
Contributions to individual retirement accounts are made as a benefit to the employee by Cape
Fear Center for Inquiry at a rate set by the State of NC. Employee contributions are also as set
by the State of NC . Guidelines for the use and distribution of retirement funds are available by
contacting the retirement system administrator. An employee is assigned an active retirement
account number upon enrollment. Contact the retirement system at 919-733-4191.
f. Health Insurance
Cape Fear Center for Inquiry provides health insurance for all full time employees through Blue
Cross/Blue Shield of North Carolina--Teachers' and State Employees' Comprehensive Major
Medical Plan. The annual premium is paid for by Cape Fear Center for Inquiry for the employee
only. Coverage for additional family members is available through payroll deduction.
f. Health Insurance (cont.)
An employee may choose not to participate in the health insurance plan, however, the employee
will not retain the right to the yearly premium if he/she opts out. Upon employment, it is the
employee's responsibility to complete the enrollment form. The employee's social security
number serves as his or her membership number unless otherwise indicated by the member.
Additional information on specific coverage of the health insurance is published in Your Health
Benefits. Contact the health insurance provider at 800-422-4658 or visit the website at
WWW.shpnc.org
g. Workers' Compensation
Cape Fear Center for Inquiry retains a Workers' Compensation insurance policy. This policy
ensures that employees injured on the job are provided compensation in accordance with the
Workers' Compensation Act. An employee is entitled to medical benefits and compensation for
occupational injury or disease as defined and provided for in the policy and by law.
h. Supplemental Insurance (Cafeteria Benefits Program)
Supplemental insurance (including medical and dental) is available through a pretax cafeteria
benefits program administered by AFLAC. The employee may enroll upon employment.
Employees who wish to change enrollment status must make changes through AFLAC during
the change period, as set by AFLAC each year. New employees should contact AFLAC for
enrollment/refusal within 60 days of start date.
i. Supplemental Retirement/Annuity Option 403(b), pre-tax annuities, is an option for employees of CFCI. A contribution to an annuity is
taken out of your pay before taxes and sent to your 403(b) plan administrator. Any company
approved by the Board of Directors can administer 403(b) programs for CFCI employees.
Participation in the NC 401(k) program is also an option for employees. Participation in either a
403(b) or the NC 401(k) is entirely employee funded, no employer matching funding is provided.
To enroll in either a 403(b) or the NC 401(k), you must contact the program representative and
complete appropriate paperwork with that representative. A copy of this paperwork should be
given to the Human Resource Coordinator for processing.
j. Credit Union Membership Option
Employees of CFCI have the option to become members of North Carolina State Employees
Credit Union. To become a member, the employee must show verification of state employment
(your check stub and insurance card), and must comply with the credit unions membership
requirements.
k. Direct Deposit
Employees can have their monthly check deposited directly into the account and bank of choice.
A direct deposit form must be completed and can be obtained from the Human Resources
Coordinator.
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825 Internet Safety
It is the policy of CFCI to: (a) prevent user access over its computer network to, or
transmission of, inappropriate material via Internet, electronic mail, or other forms of direct
electronic communications; (b) prevent unauthorized access and other unlawful online
activity; (c) prevent unauthorized online disclosure, use, or dissemination of personal
identification information of minors; and (d) comply with the Children’s Internet Protection
Act [Pub. L. No. 106-554 and 47 USC 254(h)].
Definitions
MINOR. The term “minor” means any individual who has not attained the age of 17 years.
TECHNOLOGY PROTECTION MEASURE. The term ``technology protection
measure'' means a specific technology that blocks or filters Internet access to visual
depictions that are:
1. OBSCENE, as that term is defined in section 1460 of title 18, United States Code;
2. CHILD PORNOGRAPHY, as that term is defined in section 2256 of title 18,
United States Code; or
3. Harmful to minors.
HARMFUL TO MINORS. The term ``harmful to minors'' means any picture, image,
graphic image file, or other visual depiction that:
1. Taken as a whole and with respect to minors, appeals to a prurient interest in nudity,
sex, or excretion;
2. Depicts, describes, or represents, in a patently offensive way with respect to what is
suitable for minors, an actual or simulated sexual act or sexual contact, actual or simulated
normal or perverted sexual acts, or a lewd exhibition of the genitals; and
3. Taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value as to
minors.
SEXUAL ACT; SEXUAL CONTACT. The terms ``sexual act'' and ``sexual contact''
have the meanings given such terms in section 2246 of title 18, United States Code.
Access to Inappropriate Material
To the extent practical, technology protection measures (or “Internet filters”) shall be used
to block or filter Internet, or other forms of electronic communications, access to
inappropriate information.
Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, blocking shall be applied
to visual depictions of material deemed obscene or child pornography, or to any material
deemed harmful to minors.
Subject to staff supervision, technology protection measures may be disabled for adults or,
in the case of minors, minimized only for bona fide research or other lawful purposes.
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Inappropriate Network Usage
To the extent practical, steps shall be taken to promote the safety and security of users of
the CFCI online computer network when using electronic mail, chat rooms, instant
messaging, and other forms of direct electronic communications.
Specifically, as required by the Children’s Internet Protection Act, prevention of
inappropriate network usage includes: (a) unauthorized access, including so-called
‘hacking,’ and other unlawful activities; and (b) unauthorized disclosure, use, and
dissemination of personal identification information regarding minors.
Education, Supervising, Monitoring
It shall be the responsibility of all members of the CFCI staff to educate, supervise and
monitor appropriate usage of the online computer network and access to the Internet in
accordance with this policy, the Children’s Internet Protection Act, the Neighborhood
Children’s Internet Protection Act, and the Protecting Children in the 21st
Century Act.
Procedures for the disabling or otherwise modifying any technology protection measures
shall be the responsibility of IT Specialist or designated representatives.
The Technology Teacher or designated representatives will provide age- appropriate
training for students who use CFCI Internet facilities. The training provided will be
designed to promote CFCI’s commitment to:
a. The standards and acceptable use of Internet services as set forth in the
CFCI Internet Safety Policy;
b. Student safety with regard to:
i. safety on the Internet;
ii. appropriate behavior while on online, on social networking Web sites, and
in chat rooms; and
iii. cyberbullying awareness and response.
c. Compliance with the E-rate requirements of the Children’s Internet Protection Act
(“CIPA”).
Following receipt of this training, the student will acknowledge that he/she received the
training, understood it, and will follow the provisions of CFCI’s acceptable use policies.
Other CFCI policies regarding Internet Safety are listed below:
-Policy 365 Educating Students About Online Behavior
-Policy 812 Student Internet and Email
-Policy 814 Student Discipline and Liability
-Policy 824 Network Security
ACTION DATE
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECKS
FOR VOLUNTEERS AT CFCI
The CFCI Board of Directors is exploring the possibility of requiring criminal background checks (CBC) for
certain volunteers at CFCI. This memo is an effort to gain input from staff regarding this issue and policy. The
current thinking is that there would be three levels of volunteers:
LEVEL 1, Volunteers who are always under the direct supervision of CFCI employees when working with
children and those who perform tasks for CFCI that do not involve direct interaction with students.
LEVEL 2, Volunteers who work with students outside of the direct supervision of CFCI staff or who serve as
chaperons.
LEVEL 3, Volunteers who drive on school sponsored fieldtrips.
LEVEL 1 volunteer would not be required to have a CBC completed. LEVEL 2 and 3 volunteers would need
to pass a CBC.
There are many issues that need to be discussed and resolved as this policy is developed. Please review the
questions below with your team and then email a response to Michael by Thursday, November 14. Your
response might include answers to the questions, more questions, concerns, suggestions or whatever you wish.
Lori and Michael will review, compile and summarize the input and report back at the Nov. 20 staff meeting.
1. Who will pay the approximate $18 fee for the CBC?
2. What types of convictions would disqualify an individual from serving as a LEVEL 2 or 3
volunteer
3. Is there a time period that should be considered in evaluating convictions, for example only those
in the past 5 years, 10 years, ever?
4. When should this program begin, ASAP or at the start of 2014-15 school year?
5. What impact will a Volunteer CBC policy have on the number of LEVEL 2 and 3 volunteers?
6. Could a volunteer provide details that would mitigate or explain the circumstances of a
conviction?
7. Who would administer the CBC program? Who else would have access to the information in the CBC?
Accountability/Testing Results
The State of NC measures schools through state testing by looking at three areas. The State
and Federal AMO (Annual Measurable Objectives), overall proficiency (% that scored a 3 or 4)
and student growth from one year to the next. At CFCI, we truly do not focus on teaching
students the test, rather we teach the whole child. In doing so we prepare them for life skills
including test taking strategies, but more importantly, we teach them to research, problem
solve, to ask questions, and experience learning. That has historically proven to connect with
higher student achievement and this year is no exception.
While we certainly have areas to work and grow, our achievement levels were significantly
higher than the state average. There were some big changes this past year. All tests and
achievement expectations were changed for students when the state adopted the Common
Core State Standards in English Language Arts and Mathematics and the Essential Standards in
Science.
Proficiency: Percent of students who scored a level 3 or 4 which is considered passing. Our
overall proficiency percentage was 66%. Below is a breakdown by test.
Subject Area CFCI
State
baseline
Norm
NHC BCS PCS Charter
Day
Wilm
Prep
Reading
Composite 3-8
60.0% 43.9 % 50.9 43.8 43.8 54.9 29.2
Math
Composite 3-8
69.2% 42.3% 51.5 38 38.1 58.4 15.3
Science
Composite
5and8
70.1% 52.2% 62.3 45 54.7 66.3 25
Math 1
(Algebra 1)
85.0% 36.3% 52.8 52 42.7 75.9 22.6
Overall
Proficiency
66% 44.7% 53% 42.5 44.4 58.3 22.6
Growth: State reports growth via EVAAS which stands for Educator Value Added Assessment
System. Uses complex formulas and testing history to calculate a growth index for students
from year to year. The state reports as Did Not Meet Growth, Meets Growth, Exceeds Growth
CFCI Met Overall Growth, exceeding growth in both 7th and 8th grade math
Annual Measurable Objectives (AMO’s)- Subgroups reported to both state and federal
government. Some schools have more than 150 subgroups. CFCI has 13 Federal and 17 State
Objectives and we met expectations in all areas.
Federal Breakdown:
Federal – CFCI Met 13/13
1. >95% Participation Reading
2. Reading Proficiency
3. >95% White Students Reading
4. White Students Reading Proficiency
5. >95% Participation SWD Students Reading
6. SWD Students Reading Proficiency
7. Math same (7-12)
13. >95% Participation in End of Grade Testing
State- CFCI Met 17/17
1. >95% Participation Reading
2. Reading Proficiency
3. >95% White Students Reading
4. White Students Reading Proficiency
5. >95% Participation SWD Students Reading
6. SWD Students Reading Proficiency
7. Math same (7-12)
13-16. Science same (All & White…not SWD)
17. >95% Participation in End of Grade Testing
