BANGOR TOWNSHIP BOARD OF EDUCATION

SPECIAL MEETING

MARCH 29, 2004

The Bangor Township Board of Education held a special meeting on Monday, March 29, 2004, at Christa McAuliffe Middle School. Vice-President Thomas called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Members Present: George Thomas, Dawn Klida, Terrence O’Hare, John Loop, Barbara Skowronski, and Scott Sturm

Members Absent: Richard Kowalski (Board of Education business)

EXPRESSIONS/COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC

None

ACTION ITEMS

Student Expulsion:  Superintendent Andress explained that a recommendation was being brought before the Board for the expulsion of Cassidee Heppner, seventh grade CMMS student. Mr. Andress informed the student’s parents that the Board could go into executive session at their request.

At 6:02 p.m., Mr. Heppner requested a closed session for the discussion of expulsion of his daughter. The Board concurred and the meeting went into closed session.

The meeting reconvened into open session at 6:30 p.m.

A motion was made by Barbara Skowronski, supported by Scott Sturm, to approve the recommendation for the expulsion of Cassidee Heppner for 150 days through the end of the first semester of the 2004/05 school year (January 14, 2005). A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: George Thomas, Dawn Klida, Terrence O’Hare, Barbara Skowronski, John Loop, Scott Sturm. Nays: None. Absent: Richard Kowalski. Motion carried unanimously.

At 6:30 p.m. a five-minute recess was then called by Mr. Thomas.

The meeting reconvened at 6:35 p.m.

Student Expulsion:  Superintendent Andress explained that a recommendation was being brought before the Board for the expulsion of Thomas Harris, sixth grader at CMMS, for 150 days through the end of the first semester of the 2004/05 school year (January 14, 2005). Mr. Andress informed Thomas’s parents that they could request a closed session for the discussion. This was denied by the parents.

Mrs. Bibbee reviewed the three incidents where Thomas wrote bomb threats that disrupted the school district, and recommended that he be expelled for the time period stated by Mr. Andress.

Mr. Heinrich stated that he had held a manifestation meeting with Thomas’s parents just prior to spring break. It was determined at this meeting that the incidents were not a result of Thomas’s special education certification. He appreciated the willingness of the parents to be supportive in this decision.

Mr. Thomas asked the parents if they would like to say anything. Mr. Harris said that this was a long period of time for a twelve year old to be out of school. Mr. Andress explained that tutoring could be arranged for Thomas if they desired. Mr. Harris also stated his concern that Thomas would be held back. Mr. Heinrich said that this would depend on Thomas and hard work to keep up. This would be discussed at a later time. Mr. Andress said that if he works hard the first semester, Thomas had a better chance to advance to the next grade.

Superintendent Andress also stated that, unfortunately, the day both buildings had to be shut down there was an economic impact for food service items in excess of $700. He said that an invoice would be sent to the parents for that amount.

Mr. Thomas stated that the Board did not like to take such action, but needed to in cases such as this. Mrs. Skowronski asked Thomas if he had completed the DARE program. Thomas said that he had. Mrs. Skowronski reiterated the need for Thomas to consider the impacts of decisions that he makes - how they affect his family and fellow students. She said that he needed to make better choices for the rest of his family.

A motion was made by John Loop, supported by Scott Sturm, to expel Thomas Harris for 150 days through the end of the first semester of the 2004/05 school year (January 14, 2005). A roll call vote was taken. Ayes: George Thomas, Dawn Klida, Terrence O’Hare, Barbara Skowronski, John Loop, Scott Sturm. Nays: None.  Absent: Richard Kowalski. Motion carried unanimously.

OTHER ITEMS FOR DISCUSSION

 Mr. Andress asked that members of the Personnel Committee to stay for a quick meeting immediately following the Board meeting.

At 6:47 p.m. a motion was made by Terrence O’Hare, supported by Barbara Skowronski, to adjourn the meeting.

Respectfully Submitted,

Dawn Klida, Secretary