Barnstable County Horace Mann Charter Public School, Board of Trustees Meeting – June 7, 2016, at the offices, and then at the school.

Present: Eric Steinhilber Chairman, Stephen Thompson Vice-Chairman, Timea Menyhart Treasurer, Beth-Anne Allen Secretary, and Brad Goodwin Clerk, Board of Trustees (BOT): Todd Carley, Travis Cundiff, Patty Horgan and Shelby Powers. Absent: Mr. John Burnett Guests: None.

Call to Order: Chairman Steinhilber opened the meeting at 3:30p.

Top four to be interviewed: Ms. Marcy Dugas, Mr. Daniel Atwell, Dr. Sheila Kukstis and Dr. Lisa Whelan. Each candidate will have 45 minutes to complete their interview, and the order will be Dr. Whelan, Dr. Kukstis, Ms. Dugas and Mr. Atwell. Executive Session (3:30p) – on a motion by Mr. Thompson, seconded by Secretary Allen – the BOT went into executive session, 7-0-0. Trustee Carley arrived at 3:33p. Executive Session (4:01p) – on a motion by the Chairman, seconded by Trustee Cundiff – the BOT voted to end the session, (8-0-0) and head to the school. Next Meeting: June 7th – 4:30p at the School.

Barnstable County Horace Mann Charter Public School, Board of Trustees Meeting – June 7, 2016, inside the school gym.

Present: Eric Steinhilber Chairman, Stephen Thompson Vice-Chairman, Timea Menyhart Treasurer, Beth-Anne Allen Secretary, and Brad Goodwin Clerk, Board of Trustees (BOT): Mr. John Burnett, Todd Carley, Travis Cundiff, Patty Horgan and Shelby Powers. Absent: None Guests: Terry Bolt, Harold Brunelle, Lisa Callahan, Ann Cannedy, Alyssa Chase, Judy Crocker, Jen Curley, Mia Curley, John G. Flores, Michelle Fravel, Amy Jones, Desmond Keogh, Patrice Michael, Dean Melanson, Cathy Milne, Peter Norton, Sue Nunes, Carol Panasci, Hillary Peck, Alicia and JoJo Sader, Jenn Steinhilber, Jennifer Ward, Michael Woddee, Tim Whelan.

Call to Order: Chairman Steinhilber opened the meeting at 4:30p.

The chairman addressed the gathering, the Board of Trustees (BOT) introduced themselves, then the Chair noted that both Trustee Allen and Trustee Horgan will be recusing themselves for tonight’s interviews, discussions, and votes. Top four to be interviewed: Ms. Marcy Dugas, Mr. Daniel Atwell, Dr. Sheila Kukstis and Dr. Lisa Whelan. Each candidate will have 45 minutes to complete their interview, and the order will be Dr. Whelan, Dr. Kukstis, Ms. Dugas and Mr. Atwell. Question 1 – What most intrigues you about being the Principal of the BCHMCPS? Question 2 – Position on charter schools, and school choice? Your educational philosophy? Validity yes/no on the ASP model? Question 3 – How do you envision working with the BOT Finance Committee to maximize funding from district, and formulate spending plan? Question 4 – Horace Mann Charter is a unique institution, with unique challenges, how would you prepare yourself if chosen Principal? Question 5 – How would you go about insuring that BCHMCPS was the “first choice” for the K-3 families within the district? Question 6 – Charter Renewal is every 5 years – how would you handle this daunting task to secure renewal?

Question 7 – Relationship between Principal and District, BOT, School staff, and School’s families? Question 8 – As the school/s leader you will be held accountable for everything the school accomplishes or fails to accomplish….tell us why you believe are up to the task? Dr. Lisa Whelan (4:34p) The candidate greeted each Trustee, and handed out some paperwork. Question 1:

o Being a teacher, the most special thing is/are the children we serve, it’s a very diverse group, I admire that, 19 students, and 5-6 countries in our class, staff passion – I can’t speak enough on what we do, each and every day. We are all there for the kids. That is a strength of this school, and it would be an honor to be the principal here. I have the ability, and I have the talent.

Q2: o Dividing the two charters – Commonwealth and Horace Mann…we

receive a majority of our dollars from the town, so the funding issues can arise….I went thru difficult times at DY, funds were lost when kids left and went to a charter school or other town’s schools. Philosophy – I believe in my heart, that all children, regardless of income status, race, (etcetera) – all kids have the ability to learn and should have access to learn… It takes a talented teacher to do that, and it’s a school and the district, and state’s responsibility to do all that… ASP – this program was created in the 80’s – and I agree with it… Choices and technology is also important, and leaning on their (a teacher’s) skills are key too… we have to work hard to bring these out, and this is the center of the ASP – find the strengths in all… Dr. Whelan listed examples – we just finished lesson on community, … Revolutionary War, the students researched a person from the war, and used the iPads, and typed up the bios on each person…I purchased pallets to let them draw their favorite person…and then all 3rd graders went to the state house as well…which dovetails really well, including artifacts we saw at the State House. The candidate gave a Piping Plover field trip too, which included new posters the children made for the National Seashore, to warn visitors not to move nests.

Q3: o Financing allocations – I have a lot of experience with budgets, and

creating budgets, and issues with dollars… I’m collaborative-based, working with the staff, and striving to be transparent, with Finance Committee, BOT, District and of course – the staff… Unique

governance… Open lines to our staff as well…what we can provide, and ideas, plus take a look at fundraising. Dr. Whelan gave a Station Avenue Elementary example, with $20,000 being raised, scholastic book fair, look toward a state line item that has $14,000,000 in funding, extended day dollars, and also look to grants that are open to us – unique to us – we are our own district, and want to see those come in…Imagine having enrichment every single day, not every 6th day… the gift of time – the children need more time, to get those skills. It’s communication, it’s trust, it’s transparency, and outside funding sources…. School transportation is not provided here, there’s a fee – so I was able to get funding from the community – I never want a student to accrue absences over a lack of transportation.

Q4: o I’ve been a school staff member for over 4 years…when we had our

audit, and our conditions placed on us, I was the facilitator of a cadre which collaborated with the rest of the staff, and devised a program together, research-based math cadre example, when there is a challenge we are there… Piloting a Math program, on a majority vote. Finances continue to be an issue…I am constantly thinking outside the box…. Critical to our success…. As a teacher and Principal, I feel professional development is needed – if the ASP model is to continue, we need additional training so our staff can be better at their craft… and in turn, the children are more successful as well.

Q5: o Parents like having school choice…we really have a good name for

ourselves at BCHMCPS – my role is to be out in the community to be a model for the school…There are a lot of connections I can bring to the table – and going out to district kindergartens would be key… as a leader you need to be out there… At school events, community events, at the Rec Center next door, maybe visit at a library in a different village one time per month…read with Dr. Whalen… We are blessed to have a great PTO…

Q6: o As a grade 3 teacher – the accountably and work is ongoing, and

provides evidence for our five-year plan…we continue to improve upon our student achievement…it’s not waiting for year five, but an ongoing campaign, and working toward that goal weekly…I’ve got a good relationship with the Charter Office, and DESE…. Our Annual Report is due August first…showing what you’ve done…and I’ve written those before and am comfortable with that… Reports show how we are improving, and to cite plenty of data.

Q7:

o Communication is top notch with me, be it with constituents, or parents; I’m very collaborative, I’ve heard great things about (incoming Barnstable Superintendent) Meg Mayo-Brown, being negative toward District or citing a lack of trust will hurt us, and I can show her (Meg) how dynamic we can be… I seek open talks with BOT, plus managing the school staff, to help reach our goals, and establish a super level for our school… I have shown staff, over the past four years my talents, I’m collaborative and proud of our 3rd Grade Team…we provide the children skills and – then there’s that daunting test at the end of the year… (candidate nodded toward audience) they will vouch for me…and many of them are here today… I’m an open and honest teacher, a cadre leader…with grace, confidence, and wisdom….and my experience (Horace Mann teacher and Yarmouth Principal) should be noted. Everyone here works so hard – this is such a super school. On a follow up from the Vice Chair - BOT – you are my direct supervisors – but the goals we have here, and the goals for my school… I always have to advocate for our school – and that’s first… My heart and my obedience goes to this Board…. but once again – it’s important to have trust, and open communication both ways; Dr. Whelan closed out this question lauding outgoing Principal Podesky.

Q8: o We have a special school – I’m so privileged, so honored to be here,

surrounded by wonderful families and co-workers… I feel, that through these relationships, given my credentials and great experiences with leadership – will afford this school and awesome advantage…and what we can do, and what we learn from them, and how to make ourselves better…. As a teacher, I’m a learner first… remember, education is such a human element…it’s the relationships we have built… As I look out to the audience...it comes down to providing awesome opportunities for the kids, that what we’re all about.

5:05p – closing comments by candidate. 5:08p the Chair declared a recess until 5:25p.

At this point roughly four-fifths of the gallery departed, leaving only five or six folks to view the final three candidates.

Dr. Sheila Kukstis (5:29p) – Question 1:

o I’ve been a Principal for 19 years, and I’ve been a teacher from K thru 8…a marriage of schools is in my career – half in private, half in public… so Horace Mann is like a good fit for me.

Q2: o My career has been in building schools, so I believe in school

choice, and the freedom that comes by not having to follow a model that doesn’t encompass everyone… Build with the teachers what works for a particular school, each one is different and special. Philosophy -that the child feels like they belong…it’s not trite, but it’s truly what I believe – what is and what isn’t going to work for that child…each one is individual – yes, it’s their school and they belong. On ASP – if it helps the school and the kids – I’m all for it.. Especially if it increases a child’s creativity. On a follow up from Trustee Burnett - On school choice –The candidate shared a story about her three kids who couldn’t available themselves of school choice “back then” until they went to high school – and each one went to a different private school – even including a Catholic school. It’s what fit my child best…so yes, I’m all about school choice.

Q3: o Finances – I see allocation lining up with the BOT’s goals, and the

budget should reflect that… For example, if we didn’t have enough Technology here – then the budget would be driven by that goal …and it’s hopefully aligned with district goals too… Communication and supporting each other (Charter and District) – it has to flow down… Look at what the goals are that you have set, and strive to achieve funding for them.

Q4: o Face the challenges – move forward with those models…. What is

the charter, what is the history, what is the vision, and this is why we want to do it this way. Do I have a rich understanding of the ASP model? No – I need some professional development to do… The candidate noted other Horace Mann schools, and I’d look to get info or maybe a visit, and be better prepared to face those challenges going forward. Trustee Thompson on follow up – Is the model a hurdle or an asset? Obviously it’s an asset – it’s one that everyone here believes is important…but I don’t have a complete understanding of why…. I’m not that presumptuous to say “I get it.” Trustee Steinhilber on follow up – How quickly can you get up to speed? There’s going to

be a learning curve – yes, I’m not going to change and change and change – I’m going to first look and listen, and the Doctor she referenced some past mistakes she made when she was hired as a principal at age 36 – where she foolishly boxed up dusty trophies on display - (laughter) - boy did I learn to respect school history…and I want to honor the history this school has…

Q5: o Marketing, not because I’m great at it, but because I believed in my

school! I had to sell pride and achievement every year (running a private school), and I wouldn’t be sitting here today, if I didn’t believe in your Horace Mann Charter model….and yes, in marketing you have got to say, say it, and say it again… I’ve used Billboards, direct mailers, real estate placement pieces, we were visible and you speak about what you believe in….and be clear about your message. Trustee Carley follow-up Give us an example of being involved with school functions - I’m there, and I’m involved, and evenings, weekends, I’m there… Just yesterday, I headed back to the school to let the ducks out early on Sunday morning – it’s just what you do.

Q6: o In my Private school, we had a three-year, and five-year update and

renewal every ten years. Where do you want to be, and then build backwards… Challenges, where are you not making them… Charter renewal is a multi-year activity… Five years is not that long a time…so the plan is always being worked on… I tapped the help and assistance from staff, teachers, parents, board members… Teachers and I met for a half day one time per month…multi-layered – not overly smooth, but it was a strong process.

Q7: o I report directly to the BOT, but I need a strong relationship with the

school district too…you need them to celebrate the school as much as you do…. Collaborative relationship with all…and I’d lean on your Board’s expertise… I know how to run a school – but you know this school… Supportive, and warm Board of Trustees, and if I had an issue – I can call and say “I need some help.” My part of that is to build the school organizationally, day to day and month to month. STAFF – it’s not good unless it’s collaborative – but I’m also an evaluator –“let’s talk on what I’m seeing and what are the challenges you are seeing, and let’s get to the bottom of it.” I’m out front when the children are dropped off, or being picked up… I listen to people…if you listen, you can help resolve a lot of problems…I look for transparency and respect.

Q8:

o Nineteen years as a principal, setting visions, moving schools forward, my resume has brought me to this place right now, and I can help support this school…and I look forward to that challenge, and relish the opportunity…I’ve moved from assistant superintendent back to principal – because I missed it… I needed to be back in a school – this is my love and where I wanted to be.

5:56p – the candidate bade everyone thanks, and departed. Recess until 6:30p Ms. Marcy Dugas (6:31p) Question 1:

o Being a leader that can make a difference, both in the student’s lives, and in the community… 22 years of experience, and I want to utilize it, and share it, foster a love and joy of learning, and be able to nurture teachers in their continued growth… Our children are going to be leaving here literate, and at high levels… I mean reading literacy, math literacy, a seeking to find a deeper science inquiry… Learn and reach their potential… I would love to be part of that.

Q2: o Charters and choice breads healthy competition among education,

and people should have choice where they teach too… Important stuff, and how they want their kids educated…. Philosophy – I embrace the Multiple Intelligences model, where students exploring, grapple with their learning, and showing how and what they’ve learned… Constructivist model – engaged in instruction, and asking questions…. I embrace diversity, respect differences, and experiences. Real world experiences are needed by the students, who are not afraid to fail, and to take chances… ASP – keep the components that are valid – taking stock in your community, and culture, then make a plan and grapple with getting it done…all children can learn…we need to monitor and set goals for themselves and include ownership. All kids can learn at high levels. I believe in the SEED (Foundation) concepts too – where struggling readers can keep reaching, even dyslexic students are learning at high levels, and gaining potential.

Q3: o I envision working with the BOT, and I believe that the relationships

that happen between the Board and the leader is intrical to what goes on… Our funding mechanism would be done together I’d

expect – and what expenditures that I’d be accountable for – I’d educate the district on what is going on here…so they will support our requests… Preserve the programs that are important to our students and provide professional development of the staff.

Q4: o This is a unique school – and I have spent a good portion in public

schools – so a charter s offers a unique opportunity – it’s still under Barnstable’s Public Schools, - but it’s set by the charter… I’d look at the plan, and the goals, and the monitoring, and the data, and look for important ways to continue to improve… Unique but separate from a public school model…. New ideas, new ways to do things differently… to reach out to the community – to reach out the parents more… I like what you’ve done in your gardens… teaching the children fiscal responsibility, and growing a product.. I’d strive to engage parents in a different way… We have to reach out to them, to where they are, and bring them into the school, and show them how a charter school offers their children more…

Q5: o Creating a culture within the school – get excited about learning,

passion for joy of learning, and continue to come up with ideas, and making this a place where everyone wants to send their student… Welcoming… Reach out thru blogs and technology… Give and receive feedback… People working collectively, moving the institution forward...nurture that spark, and then everyone wants to be there… People want their students to have academic excellence, rigor, and also that joy and love of learning… The teachers foster that in their students. Trustee follow-up – give example on involvement with activities - any leader should be active and visible…attend sporting events, school events, support the ideas of the teachers, PTOs, and reach out to different community members – foster and nurture those relationships – go into those places where the families are…Life outside of school.

Q6: o It’s in 2019, right? I don’t know a lot about that process – but I would

be working with the BOT, the teachers, -- you’re the experts, and where we’d need to go next…highlight the work we’ve done, and why we’ve been successful…note the contingency’s that have to be met… So I’d be active in that process – but I’ve never been thru it before.

Q7: o Lead the institution, be collaborative with the district, oversee day-to-

day happenings, be an instructional leader, grow and learn, be a role model for the students, a good citizen, to be polite….. Head of

school must have a collaborative relationship with the Board, bounce ideas off each other, we may not always agree – but then have respectful and professional dialogue…. keep moving forward (with laser-focus) teachers are the heart of institution – if I was to come in – I’d form an entry plan, I’d review docs, ask questions of teachers, all the stake holders – from bus drivers, and custodians, all the way up… What do you want to see remain? To grow? What do you expect of me as your principal…. I’d stress respect and trust… Ask and answer questions together to make good choices going forward… Families must feel welcome, and an understanding of different dynamics – but all families want what’s best for their children…. And we can’t forget that, we must engage the parents… Trustee Thompson follow-up - I’d report to the school district and the Board of Trustees.

Q8: o I have been a learner my entire life, and I’ve grown up in the

community – graduated from Barnstable High School and have spent time at the Kennedy Rink next door… I value relationships and am an active member of my community – it’s not easy being a leader… I have a vast teaching experience – ten years in kindergarten, six years in 4th grade, Title One coordinator…I’ve waited a long time to get to this place in my career… if I had any doubts I would not have approached this…. I like accountability… That we have a responsibility to see the children are learning at a high level…. Data is good – but we must nurture the love and passion of learning… for kids, teachers and principal… I believe I’m up for that challenge…

Recess (7:04p). Mr. Dan Atwell (7:23p): Question 1:

o It starts with being a Horace Mann Charter, and it is innovation, which comes from our students, our teachers, and our community…students at times drive themselves… I got some good advice from an 8-year-old… “keep teaching,” and that’s what a principal does…that’s what it’s about – it’s about the students, because without them, there is no school… I’d be a Manager, and a cheerleader.

Q2: o Choice matters in everything, it drives what we do, and what we

say… Choice in the district, from my experiences being here…we really talked about choice, and empowering people with that choice… To have a voice…leadership is being visible – within the

classrooms, and in the halls - students need to know, and I need to see what’s going on, and we all value feedback, and about learning, and continuing to grow… How can I do it better, and strive to do it better, making it better, moving forward, and within the ASP Model, that works well – utilizing the other aspects – empower, use Cadres, serve the population better… The candidate referenced a former BCHMCPS Principal empowering his leadership on enrollment problems - Ken said “Make it work.” Came up with 3 different options on making it work – it wasn’t easy – but I did it. I did a lot of work with it – but I realized other folks made it work too… Steering Committee helped…that’s a good idea…let’s try that….

Q3: o Under Ken the budget was transparent, we held regular

conversations, and where we need to go with that, and where we are… I need growth handling the budget process, and but I’m going to concentrate on the objective of the school…. there’s always opportunities out of challenges… Losing of two valuable teachers and their salaries being compromised. Balance between dealing with the District and Finance Committee… Starts with MOU, and balance with their impacts, building and transportation… Being clear and transparent what we are doing with our funds… Innovation takes time and money.

Q4: o Reached out to past contacts to prepare for this job (Ken again),

delving back into what have we done well, and then drive that forward... There will be a learning curve… Look for resources and past contacts to help guide me…. I’d look to have a mentor to help me thru this…having a best friend in the Board, and using that shared time and information… Follow up – Trustee Powers – I’d partner with someone, probably Ken, that understands Barnstable…and tap their expertise within the community…and learn from the staff, probably very quickly…

Q5: o It SHOULD be the first choice – celebrate all the good things that are

done here… Kindergarten teachers lauded, to make new students welcome, and installation of values into those kids… Reaching out to the community, and what we have to offer… Clusters… I’d love to advertise, or publish more…and thank you to the Friends of BCHMCPS too…social activities, and what we can generate in one little function… I would elicit voices from community and teachers too… Coffee talks… inviting community in, to show them what we offer…as we did in Franklin (MA)… Answer questions for the parents

during these times…People are concerned, and they want to know…. Reach out to new parents that DON’T know about us… Publishing, displaying some of the products that are created, it’s that student voice too – a spaghetti supper….

Q6: o Charter renewal – where are we right now? Trustee Steinhilber

answered… Think about what is needed, diving in and finding out that info…using ASP structure, the steering committee, and monitor progress within the Cadres, help disseminate that info… Gather data, create action steps, show those accomplishments, invite the community in too, and perhaps thru an evening event to start data gathering for the task.

Q7: o Transparent and clear with the district and the board… The

chairman would be my best friend… it’s a working relationship… and innovation, what are we offering that’s different, and showcasing that. Clear and transparent with the BOT…offering choices on which way to move… With staff it goes back to wearing different hats…managing, cheerleading, being the lead teacher, and I wish I could share my staff’s voice here now… we have an open door policy and a response time of 24 hours… Fine line between managing and learning, and teaching… With families – I’m welcoming to their son or daughter, and that I’m clear and transparent what’s happening… The candidate shared an example, when he was Principal-for-the-day…and ants going into a backpack, and not one teacher or parent responded that, “You should have done that differently…” It’s my job and my role to know every student’s name… and when I was in this building I did know every student’s name…and every aspect of that student…I’m there to learn and grow with every student… No task is too big or too small… Trustee Thompson follow up – I’d report to all of them…

Q8: o All eyes are on you as a school leader….I’m passionate about this

school, and this building, and the students that come here…I get choked up, about these students making the choice to come here, and I’m making that choice about coming here...and I’m going to live that choice, if I get selected.

7:58p Recess.

BOT Discussion (8:07p) – The Chair thanked the BOT, for their time, input, and help along the way, and lauded the four finalists, and took the candidates alphabetically for his overview:

o Atwell – connected well with this school, his kids went here, he would need support here, but we could certainly tell his passion for the Horace Mann Charter School.

o Dugas – great experience – lives in Barnstable like Dan does, and brings a good community base… passion for installing joy of learning… She did some work researching ASP model…

o Kukstis – ton of great experience, marketing, nice demeanor, private and public schools, former superintendent, and came back to Principal because she missed the kids… she also seems to be dedicated to her school…even after the 9-5 day…

o Whelan – good background, former principal, current teacher, she knows ASP, has done great things with statehouse fieldtrips, put time into her application, and would hit the ground running… Strong on educational practice.

BOT discussed their notes, and the attributes of all four candidates, and references. The Chair asked that the Board pick their top two – in no particular order (the clerk recorded these alphabetical): Trustee Steinhilber: Kukstis, Whelan Trustee Cundiff: Dugas, Kukstis Trustee Carley: Dugas, Kukstis, Trustee Powers: Atwell, Kukstis Trustee Menyhart: Kukstis, Whelan Trustee Thompson: Dugas, Kukstis Tustee Burnett: Atwell, Kukstis Dr. Kukstis received seven votes, and Ms. Dugas received three. Board continued to discuss, and went over their notes. Vote (8:56p) On a motion by Trustee Cundiff seconded by Trustee Thompson the board voted 7-0-2 (Allen, Horgan) to offer the Principal’s position to Dr. Sheila Kukstis. The Chairman and Vice-Chair mapped out duties for notifying all four of the candidates, and then called for a vote to depart. Vote (9:01p) On a motion by Trustee Powers seconded by Trustee Burnett the board voted 7-0-2 (Allen, Horgan) to close the meeting.