Notice Of Special Meeting And Executive Session Thursday Dec
Notice Of Special Meeting And Executive Sessionthursday December 20
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING and EXECUTIVE SESSION THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018 SCOTTSDALE UNIFIED DISTRICT #48 GOVERNING BOARD Notice is hereby given to the members of the Governing Board and to the general public that on Thursday, December 20, 2018, at 9:00 AM, at Mohave District Annex, Conference Room A-B, 8500 E. Jackrabbit Road, Scottsdale, Arizona, the Governing Board will hold a Special Meeting and pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, may vote to convene in Executive Sessions. If authorized by majority vote of the Governing Board, the Executive Sessions will be held immediately after the vote. The Executive Sessions will not be open to the public. One or more members of the Governing Board may participate in the meeting by telephonic communication.
Persons with a disability may request reasonable accommodations by contacting Ms. Sondra Como, Executive Assistant to the Governing Board and Superintendent. Accommodations should be requested two working days prior to the meeting to allow time for the District to make arrangements for the accommodation. All persons present at an Executive Session are hereby reminded that A.R.S. §38-431.03 imposes strict confidentiality requirements on discussions that occur in Executive Session. Generally, such discussions cannot be revealed to non-board members, unless necessary to carry out the purpose of the statutory provision that specifically permits an Executive Session.
The Open Meeting Law provides for a fine of up to $500.00 for violating this confidentiality requirement and requires that this admonition be given. The Agenda for the meeting is: I. Call to Order/Roll Call II. Pledge of Allegiance III. EXECUTIVE SESSION- Board Action Required- The Board may vote to convene in executive session for the following: A. Pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(3), for the purpose of receiving legal advice from the attorney for the public body regarding possible settlement with Hunt Caraway Architects. IV. Adjourn Executive Session V. Reconvene Special Meeting VI. ACTION ITEM – Possible Board Action Required A. The Board may vote to approve a settlement agreement with Hunt Caraway Architects. B. The Board may vote to approve Agreement and In-Kind Donation of Services valued at $130,000 from Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation for Field Improvements at Ingleside Middle School for SUSD and Arcadia Little League. VII. EXECUTIVE SESSION- Board Action Required- The Board may vote to convene in executive session for the following: A. Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1), discussion/consideration of applicants for Superintendent, with representatives from search firm McPherson & Jacobson. The applicants have been notified pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1). B. Pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(3), for the purpose of receiving legal advice from the attorney for the public body regarding applicants for Superintendent and the search process. C. Possible executive session, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1), for discussion/consideration of Acting Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard for the position of Superintendent. Dr. Kriekard has been notified pursuant to A.R.S. §.03(A)(1). D. Possible executive session, pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(3), for the purpose of receiving legal advice from the attorney for the public body regarding possible employment of Dr. Kriekard for Superintendent. VIII. Adjourn Executive Session IX. Reconvene Special Meeting X. ACTION – Possible Board Action Required A. The Board may vote to invite finalist(s) for the position of Superintendent to interview for the position. This action item may include discussion of interview schedules and the Board may also vote to approve an interview schedule; OR B. The Board may vote to offer a contract to Dr. John Kriekard for Superintendent. XI. Adjourn Special Meeting PURSUANT TO A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(3), THE BOARD MAY VOTE TO CONVENE IN EXECUTIVE SESSION, WHICH WILL NOT BE OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, FOR DISCUSSION OR CONSULTATION FOR LEGAL ADVICE WITH THE GOVERNING BOARD’S ATTORNEY ON AN ITEM THAT IS LISTED ON THIS AGENDA. BOARD PACKET MATERIALS AVAILABLE TWENTY-FOUR (24) HOURS IN ADVANCE OF THE MEETING, AT THE SCOTTSDALE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT, MOHAVE DISTRICT ANNEX, 8500 E. JACKRABBIT ROAD, SCOTTSDALE, AZ . Date Posted: December 18, 2018 SCOTTSDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT GOVERNING BOARD Barbara Perleberg, President Kim Hartmann, Vice President Allyson Beckham Pam Kirby Sandy Kravetz MINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE GOVERNING BOARD SCOTTSDALE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 48 December 20, 2018 A Special Meeting of the Governing Board of the Scottsdale Unified School District, #48, Maricopa County, was called to order at 9:06 AM, at the Scottsdale Unified School District Mohave District Annex, 8500 E. Jackrabbit Road, Scottsdale, Arizona. Mrs. Perleberg led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. Board Members in attendance were Barbara Perleberg, President; Kim Hartmann, Vice President; Allyson Beckham; Pam Kirby; and Sandy Kravetz. Acting Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard was also present. A quorum was present. Mrs. Perleberg moved to convene in Executive Session for: A. Pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(3), for the purpose of receiving legal advice from the attorney for the public body regarding possible settlement with Hunt Caraway Architects. B. Pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(4), Discussion or consultation with the attorneys of the public body in order to consider its position and instruct its attorneys regarding the public body's position regarding settlement discussions with Hunt Caraway Architects. Mrs. Kravetz seconded the motion. The motion was approved with a vote of 5 – 0. At 10:03 AM, the Special Meeting reconvened. Action Items VI. A. The Board may vote to approve a settlement agreement with Hunt & Caraway Architects Mrs. Perleberg moved that the Governing Board approve the settlement agreement and mutual release between the District and Hunt & Caraway Architects, Ltd., and authorize the Board President to sign the agreement. Mrs. Kirby asked outside legal counsel Susan Segal, Udall Shumway, to recap the details of the settlement. Ms. Segal stated that the settlement affects the former Hohokam and Central Kitchen projects, and the Pima and Hopi projects. Mrs. Beckham seconded the motion. The motion was approved with a vote of 5 – 0. VI. B. The Board may vote to approve Agreement and In-Kind Donation of Services valued at $130,000 from Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation for field Improvements at Ingleside Middle School for SUSD and Arcadia Little League Mrs. Hartmann moved to approve the Agreement and In-Kind Donation of Services valued at $130,000 from Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation for field Improvements at Ingleside Middle School for SUSD and Arcadia Little League. Mrs. Beckham seconded the motion. The motion was approved with a vote of 5 – 0. Mrs. Perleberg moved to convene in Executive Session for: A. Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1), discussion/consideration of applicants for Superintendent, with representatives from search firm McPherson & Jacobson. The applicants have been notified pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1). The applicants have been notified pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1). B. Pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(3), for the purpose of receiving legal advice from the attorney for the public body regarding applicants for Superintendent and the search process. C. Possible executive session, pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.03(A)(1), for discussion/consideration of Acting Superintendent Dr. John Kriekard for the position of Superintendent. Dr. Kriekard has been notified pursuant to A.R.S. §.03(A)(1). D. Possible executive session, pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(3), for the purpose of receiving legal advice from the attorney for the public body regarding possible employment of Dr. Kriekard for Superintendent. Mrs. Kravetz seconded the motion. The motion was approved with a vote of 5 – 0. At 3:20 PM, the Special Meeting reconvened. Mrs. Perleberg read the following statement: The Superintendent Search did not meet our expectations. We are fortunate to have an Acting Superintendent in Dr. Kriekard, providing stability to this District. The Governing Board met with him today and discussed a possible extension of his contract. He has expressed interest and this Board is grateful and supportive of Dr. Kriekard continuing in the role. To honor our commitment and allow the new Governing Board to finalize this decision, no action will be taken today. Mrs. Kirby moved to adjourn the Special Meeting. Mrs. Beckham seconded the motion. The motion was approved with a vote of 5 – 0. Dated this 20th day of December 2018. The Governing Board of the Scottsdale Unified School District #48 Barbara Perleberg, President Kim Hartmann, Vice President Allyson Beckham Pam Kirby Sandy Kravetz Special Meeting Reconvened Statement: Possible Extension of Dr. Kriekard’s Contract No Action Taken Motion #70 Adjournment NOTICE OF AMENDMENT CONCERNING GOVERNING BOARD MEETING THURSDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2018, at 9:00 AM SCOTTSDALE UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT Pursuant to A.R.S. §38-431.02, the Agenda has been amended with the following addition: III. EXECUTIVE SESSION- Board Action Required- The Board may vote to convene in executive session for the following: B. Pursuant to ARS 38-431.03(A)(4), Discussion or consultation with the attorneys of the public body in order to consider its position and instruct its attorneys regarding settlement discussions with Hunt Caraway Architects. Date Posted: December 18, 2018 SCOTTSDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT GOVERNING BOARD Barbara Perleberg, President Kim Hartmann, Vice President Allyson Beckham Pam Kirby Sandy Kravetz
Paper For Above instruction
The Scottsdale Unified School District Governing Board held a special meeting on December 20, 2018, at the Mohave District Annex in Scottsdale, Arizona. The purpose of this meeting was to address multiple significant issues, including legal cases, financial agreements, and administrative appointments. This paper will analyze the key elements discussed in the meeting, their implications, and the procedures followed as per Arizona statutes.
Introduction
Meetings of school district governing boards are integral to ensuring transparency, legal compliance, and effective governance. The December 20, 2018, special session exemplifies this process, highlighting decision-making concerning legal settlements, agreements involving community organizations, and the hiring or consideration of district leadership. Such gatherings are governed by the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.), notably sections related to open meetings and confidentiality.
Legal Compliance and Confidentiality
The Scottsdale district adhered to statutory mandates, holding the meeting in accordance with A.R.S. §38-431.02, which governs public notice, and A.R.S. §38-431.03, which outlines confidentiality requirements during executive sessions. Executive sessions are closed to the public and designated for discussions that involve legal advice, personnel matters, or settlement negotiations, which are sensitive by nature. The district's emphasis on requesting reasonable accommodations for disabled individuals underscores commitment to inclusivity and legal compliance.
Agenda and Proceedings
The agenda comprised multiple items, including executive sessions for legal and personnel deliberations, and votes on specific actions. The proceedings began with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by motions to enter into executive session to discuss legal advice connected with a settlement concerning Hunt Caraway Architects. The board also addressed an agreement and donation of services valued at $130,000 from the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation for improvements at Ingleside Middle School.
During the executive sessions, which are confidential, the board sought legal counsel and considered various negotiations and employment considerations, including the applicant pool for the superintendent position, and Dr. Kriekard’s potential extension as acting superintendent. The board’s decisions included approving settlement agreements and donations, illustrating adherence to proper procedural protocols.
Implications of Decisions
The approval of a settlement agreement with Hunt Caraway Architects marked a significant administrative resolution, mediating disputes related to construction projects. The donation of services facilitated improvements at a middle school, exemplifying community engagement and resource optimization. The personnel discussions reflected ongoing leadership considerations, vital for district stability and strategic planning.
Furthermore, the meetings' adherence to legal confidentiality highlights the importance of safeguarding sensitive information, with potential penalties for violations, ensuring accountability and integrity in governance.
Procedural Aspects and Outcomes
The district meticulously followed statutory procedures by posting notices at least 24 hours prior and maintaining proper documentation. The minutes recorded reflect a transparent record of motions, votes, and discussions, aligning with open meeting laws and promoting accountability. The final statements acknowledged the district’s challenges and underscored confidence in interim leadership, illustrating responsible communication to stakeholders.
Conclusion
The December 20, 2018, Scottsdale Unified School District special meeting encapsulates a model of effective governance, balancing transparency, confidentiality, and legal compliance. The decisions made during this session affected legal disputes, community resources, and district leadership, demonstrating the multifaceted responsibilities of school governing boards. Ensuring procedural adherence fosters trust, legal integrity, and community confidence essential for sustainable educational administration.
References
- Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.). (2018). Title 38, Chapter 3: Open Meetings Law. Retrieved from https://www.azleg.gov/ars/
- Arizona Department of Education. (2018). Governance and Legal Frameworks. Retrieved from https://www.azed.gov
- Udall Shumway. (2018). Strategic legal counsel for Arizona school districts. Retrieved from https://udallshumway.com
- McPherson & Jacobson. (2018). Superintendent search procedures and best practices. Retrieved from https://mjans.com
- Arizona School Boards Association. (2018). Governance policies and ethical standards. Retrieved from https://azsba.org
- Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.). (2018). Title 38, Chapter 8: Legal and Confidentiality Provisions. Retrieved from https://www.azleg.gov/ars/
- Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation. (2018). Community engagement initiatives. Retrieved from https://diamondbacks.com
- Scottsdale Unified School District. (2018). Meeting protocols and procedural guidelines. Retrieved from https://susd.org
- PublicSchoolReview. (2018). Best practices in board meetings. Retrieved from https://publicschoolreview.com
- District Administration. (2018). Effective governance in public schools. Retrieved from https://districtadministration.com