FINAL 1 The School District of Philadelphia Board of Education Public Meeting Minutes August 17, 2023 A public meeting of the Board of Education was held in hybrid format on August 17, 2023. Some Board Members, select staff, and some registered speakers participated in-person, while others participated remotely. Members of the general public who did not attend in-person participated via Zoom meeting platform. The meeting was convened at 4:00 p.m.,Reginald L. Streater Esquire, President. President Streater President Streater reported and commented on the following: ● Amended court order earlier this week in the case of UrbEd Inc., and the Alliance for Philadelphia Public Schools versus the Board of Education of the School District of Philadelphia highlight new guidelines for tonight and in accordance with the administrative procedures for Board Policy 005; ● Announcement that Governor Shapiro signed the state budget which includes historic
investments in K-12 public schools to include a $567 million increase in basic education funding and a $50 million increase in special education funding; ● Reminder that the start of the 2023 - 2024 school year will officially begins on September 5th; ● Recognition of the Back-to-School Bus Tour buses, stopping at 11 sites across the City to bring our students and families important information and resources – like backpacks, school supplies and even required immunizations; ● Recognition of Independence Blue Cross Foundation and mega-event co-sponsors that have supported our third annual bus tour which helps families prepare for the upcoming school year; ● Announcement that the District will hold the annual Ring-the-Bell PHL pep rally at Citizens Bank Park on August 28th to officially kick-off of the school year; ● Thank you to fellow Board Members who have taken the time to participate in various events and celebrations this summer;
● Recognition of July and the Charter School’s Office attendance at the “All About Love Conference” at Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School; ● Acknowledgement of the “Signing Day” ceremony, held on Wednesday August 16, 2023 for the FIRST cohort of students enrolled in Parkway West High School’s Early Childhood Education CTE program; congratulations to Mikail Grant, Miyon Jones and Shytina Jones for earning your Child Development Associate’s Certificate along with college credits and a job offer – right out of high school; ● Announced that the Board will no longer include the “News Business Section” at the end of their meetings ● Announced that the Board will consider Action Items related to our Goals & Guardrails. Vice President Fix-Lopez will be providing a brief presentation later in our meeting. Vice President Fix-Lopez made announcements concerning recording, copyright, participation in, and viewing of the meeting.
Vice President Fix-Lopez shared brief remarks expressing gratitude to Governor Shapiro and state legislators for passing a state budget. Vice President Fix-Lopez noted that following the court’s ruling on fair funding, the Basic Education Funding Commission will be holding a number of hearings across the
FINAL 2 Commonwealth over the next few months. Finally, Vice President Fix-Lopez also shared that the Board looks forward to welcoming the Basic Education Funding Commission and offering testimony on September 24, 2023. Roll Call, Minutes, Announcements Lynn Rauch, General Counsel, announced that the Board met in Executive Session on August 3rd and August 10th to discuss confidential, privileged, quasi-judicial charter school matters; and today, August 17th, to discuss privileged, confidential, personnel matters and information or strategy in connection with the following litigation: UrbEd and APPS v. Board of Education Philadelphia County Court of Common Pleas, No. 210302041 (alleging violations of the Pennsylvania Sunshine Act); Sample-Oates vs. The School District of Philadelphia, EEOC Charge #530-2022-0474 and PHRC #2022-12-08-13090 (alleging employment discrimination); Sample-Oates vs. The School District of Philadelphia, Philadelphia County
Court of Common Pleas #230401226 (including claims of libel and slander). Ms. Rauch conducted Roll Call. Members Present: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson (remotely), Ms. Wilkerson – 9 Members Absent: 0 Attending: Tony B. Watlington, Ed.D, Superintendent, The minutes from the June 29, 2023 meeting of the Board of Education were presented for approval. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Wilkerson – 8 No: Ms. Thompson - 1 Committee Reports Board Member Thompson provided a report from the Parent and Community Advisory Council, including: ● Advisory Council members participated in our Board of Education Action meeting by providing testimony on Action Items at the June 29, 2023 meeting; ● Provided information on where students not attending summer programs can get breakfast and
lunch provided by the City of Philadelphia for the summer; ● providing support to families in preparing for the first day of school and assisting families in receiving back-to-school supplies such as the School District of Philadelphia Back to School Events, Legislative sponsored back-to-school events, back-to-school events our religious partners, and the back-to-school events by our nonprofit partners; ● Provided information and assistance on getting uniforms for the school year for those schools requesting uniforms; ● The Advisory Council was provided with information from the School District of Philadelphia staff on policies including; the origin of policies, the reason for reviewing policies, the cycle when policies are reviewed, when the Board reviews and finally votes on policies, and soliciting feedback on policies.
FINAL 3 Board Member Sarah-Ashley Andrews shared an update on the selection process for the 2023-2024 Student Board Representatives position. Board Member Andrews shared that members of the Board of Education along with staff have been working to meet with candidates and learn more about their interest in serving as Non Voting Student Board Representatives for the 2023-2024 school year. Board Member Andrews also noted that the Board will appoint the new 2023-2024 Non-Voting Student Board Representatives and alternate at the September 21, 2023 Board of Education meeting. Presentations President Streater invited Vice President Fix-Lopez to provide an update on the Board’s Goals and Guardrails in connection with Action Item 45 Amendment of Adoption of Board of Education Public Meeting Schedule 2023 - Added 8.3.2023/Updated 8.10.2023 and Action Item 55 - Amendment to the Board’s Goals and Guardrails Mission, Vision, and Indicators - Added 08.14.2023. Vice President
Fix-Lopez provided an overview of the Board’s Goals and Guardrails highlighting the Board’s commitment to prioritizing student outcomes and achievement. Vice-President Fix-Lopez shared that in an effort to ensure that Goals and Guardrails remains central to the work of the Board, Action Item 45 proposes an amendment to the Board’s current public meeting schedule to include the creation of a Goals and Guardrails committee which will focus solely on progress monitoring and receiving updates on progress being made toward the Board’s Goals and Guardrails. Additionally, Vice President Fix-Lopez noted that Action Item 55 provides key updates to the leading indicators to each of the Goals and/or Guardrails with a goal of becoming laser focused on the key strategies and structures currently being used and implemented to help drive student achievement and success. Vice President Fix-Lopez asked Board Members to hold all questions and comments until the voting section of the agenda.
Copies of presentations are included within the meeting agenda. Student Speakers The following individuals spoke about the impact of the schedule changes at Masterman High School, the importance of extracurricular activities, and the lack of transparency from the administration, and lack of student involvement and input in the decision making process: ● Candelaria Beatty, student ● Nicolas Dorazio, student ● Rennie Lee, student ● Rachel Widjaja, student Ghafurjon Mirzoev, student, spoke about his experience with the school selection process over the past school year and shared that he felt that there was a lack of support from school staff who seemed to have a lack of knowledge in the process. Superintendent Remarks President Streater invited Dr. Watlington to provide remarks. Dr. Watlington reported/commented on the following:
FINAL 4 ● Recognition of the 350 students who successfully completed summer programming and graduated; ● The Back-to-School Bus Tour; ● Updates on progress toward Year 1 Superintendent’s Priorities - highlighting key improvements in safety, student attendance, teacher attendance, student dropouts, and 12th grade graduates. Dr. Watlington shared that the data related to academic performance is forthcoming; ● Review of Year 2 Superintendent Priorities and strategies - highlighting a focus on accelerating academic achievement and building community partnerships, 37 strategic actions that will begin implementation in FY24; ● Updates on the District’s Summer Priorities highlighting a focus on improving the school selection process and successfully reopening schools. Dr. Watlngton invited Chief Oz Hill, on Ventilation Systems and Energy Efficiency Updates regarding a high level summary of indoor ventilation systems, challenges, indoor air quality, and future plans, challenges and needs.
Chief Hill provided an overview of the District’s current Ventilation Systems and Energy Efficiency. Chief Hill shared key information and insight into the District’s historical perspective on facility air quality and ventilation, assessment of facility air quality ventilation, Challenges with improving air quality, the District’s vision for energy efficiency, energy efficiency challenges as well as Investments that will be needed to mitigate challenges. Board Members engaged in a robust question and answer discussion with Mr. Hill to better understand the current state of the District’s Ventilation Systems and the vision set forward for Energy Efficiency. Following Dr. Watlington’s updates, Board Members engaged in a question and answer session to better understand the information presented. Dr. Watlington invited Dr. Jermane Dawson, Deputy Superintendent of Academic Services and Jeremy Grant-Skinner, Deputy Superintendent of Talent,
Strategy, and Culture to provide responses to Board Member questions. Copies of presentations are included within the meeting agenda. Presentations President Streater invited Anne Nadol, Commerce Director, City of Philadelphia to provide a presentation related to Action Items 9 - 13 related to the Keystone Opportunity Zone (KOZ). Ms. Nadol provided the Board with an overview of the Keystone Opportunity Zone Program highlighting key benefits of the KOZ program, existing KOZ parcels in the city of Philadelphia, the economic opportunity plan in connection with the KOZ, career connected learning opportunities for students and five (5) potential KOZ projects before the Board of Education for a vote listed under Action items 9 - 13. Board Members asked clarifying questions to better understand the intent behind the proposed projects before them, how the projects will impact the community as well as provide opportunities for students and families. Board Members also
asked questions to better understand the process that took place to engage the community before bringing Action items before the Board. Board Members also expressed concerns related to some of the proposed projects.
FINAL 5 A recess was taken at 8:06pm and the meeting resumed at 8:34pm. Presentations (cont’d) President Streater invited Peng Chao, Acting Chief of Charter Schools to provide a presentation on Action Item 52 - Franklin Towne Charter High School - Notice of Revocation of Charter Added 8.14.2023. Mr. Chao provided an overview of the demographic information for Franklin Towne Charter High School and shared that the Charter School’s Office received outreach from Patrick Field, the Chief Academic Officer of Franklin Towne Charter High School alleging concerns regarding unlawful practices as it relates to the schools admission process. Mr. Chao provided an overview of the analysis conducted by Mr. Fields as well as the analysis completed by the Charter School’s Office. Mr. Chao shared an overview of the results of the analysis and noted that based upon these results, the Charter Schools Office is recommending that the
Board of Education issue a Notice of Revocation to commerce revocation proceedings. Mr. Chao noted that if the Board chooses to issue a Notice of Revocation, that this would mark the beginning of proceedings providing the Board with an opportunity to learn more about what exactly took place through revocation hearings. Following Mr. Chao’s presentation, the Board engaged in a discussion and question and answer period on the information presented. Public Testimony and General Speakers Board Member Salley acknowledged the receipt of and summarized written testimony submitted to the Board from: ● Horace Clouden ● Councilmember Mike Driscoll ● Mark Hankin ● Justin Trezza ● Susan Kettel ● Mark Gleason ● Jessica Cosmé Platt ● Meeka Outlaw ● Fae Ehsan ● Jeffrey Tubbs ● Anna Buller ● Walnut Hill Community Association ● Alain Locke School Community Complete copies of the written testimony are included within the meeting agenda.
The meeting was opened to the public for presentation of statements by registered students, elected, and general speakers. Ms. Rauch provided the applicable provisions of the speakers’ policy for the meeting. Ms. Rauch called general speakers: Deborah Grill, community member, urged the Board of Education not to renew the charter of Philadelphia Academy Charter School and to vote to approve the Notice of Revocation of Franklin Towne Charter High School.
FINAL 6 The following individual spoke in support of Franklin Towne Charter High School and urged the Board of Education to vote no to Action Item 52: Franklin Towne Charter High School – Notice of Revocation of Charter - Added 08.14.23: ● Jennifer Clement, Franklin Towne Charter High School Assistant Principal ● Jonathan Dougherty, Franklin Towne Charter High School Principal ● Joanne Attewell, Franklin Towne Charter High School Director of Special Education Services ● Dr. Sharmon James, Franklin Towne Charter High School Director of Student Services and Psychologist Anne Dorn, parent/guardian, spoke about matters related to updates shared during the superintendent’s remarks regarding school selection and asked for clarification regarding the process for transitioning middle school students at Masterman to the high school given that the high school has 100 seats available while the middle school currently has 200 seats available. Mrs. Dorn also asked if the district
intends to increase the number of available seats at the high school level. Prabhat Nigam, community member, came to raise concerns regarding Action Item 28 - Contract with Golden Five LLC for Google Workspace for Education Plus Licenses ($1,214,765.37) - WITHDRAWN BY STAFF 6.28.2023 being withdrawn from the June 29, 2023 Board of Education meeting agenda but noted that he was made aware that the Board would consider Action Item 14 Contract for Google Workspace for Education Plus Licenses ($1,214,765.37) UPDATED 08.14.23 during today’s meeting. Lisa Haver, APPS, asked for clarification regarding why the Board is voting on only six charter school renewals despite 19 schools in this year's renewal cohort. Ms. Haver also urged the Board of Education to vote no on action items related to the Keystone Opportunity Zone. Ilene Poses, community member, expressed concern regarding time to prepare to give remarks related to
the Action Items 9 - 13 but shared that the questions asked by Board Members aligned with the questions she had as well. Ms.Poses also noted concerns regarding accountability related to the KOZ and shared that she does not believe many of the areas where the parcels exist to be blighted areas anymore. Kristin Luebbert, District Staff Member, concerns around the amount of money is spent on consulting contract and importance of investing in the air quality of buildings regardless of the building ages Barbara Dowdall, APPS, provided remarks regarding the concerns following the graduation at Philadelphia High School for Girls graduation ceremony and asked the District to learn more about the traditions and events that take place at Philadelphia High School for Girls. Ms. Dowdall also highlighted successful women who are alumni of Philadelphia High School for Girls and the rich history that is Philadelphia High School for Girls.
The following individuals spoke in support of Action Item 38 Neighborhood Gardens Trust - Community Garden at Steel School and about the impact that Furtick Community Garden has in the Nicetown community: ● Jenny Greenberg, community member ● Jenia Jolley-Furtick, community member Meeka Outlaw, community member, expressed confusion with registering to speak for the Board of Education meeting.
FINAL 7 Horace Clouden, PCAC, shared the impact of the Keystone Opportunity Zones on his taxes as a resident. Mr. Clouden also spoke about Action Item 2 highlighting student performance level and teacher attendance. Mr. Clouden also urged the Board of Education to bring back junior high schools. Mr. Clouden also asked Dr. Watlington to test 4th through 12th graders in Math and ELA without a calculator. Mr Clouden also expressed concerns regarding access to aquatic resources. “Mama” Gail Clouden, community member, thanked the Board and Dr. Watlington for hosting a graduation ceremony for the summer school students. Mama Gail expressed disappointment in the School District of Philadelphia and expressed a lack of trust. Leah Clouden, community member, thanked Dr. Jonathan Brown and spoke about the importance of providing a summer school graduation. Ms. Clouden also expressed disappointment in the School District
of Philadelphia and expressed how residents are not benefiting from contracts as things are outsourced. Soneyet Muhammad, parent/guardian, shared challenges her family has faced looking to identify suitable and reliable childcare during the summer. Mrs. Muhammad urged the District to coordinate with Out of School Time providers to ensure that child care is being provided when necessary. Donna Cooper, Children First, urged the Board of Education to vote yes to Franklin Towne Charter High School – Notice of Revocation of Charter - Added 08.14.23. Casey Angel, community member, urged the Board of Education to vote yes to Action Item 10 and expressed excitement to invest in the development of Philadelphia. The following individuals spoke in support of Action Item 1 - Acceptance of Donation from The Big Sandbox for Tanner Duckrey School ($1,150,000) : ● Lois Brink, community member ● Danita Bates, community member ● Isaiah Nathaniel, community member
Timothy Roundtree, community member, Action Item 9 - expressed gratitude for the consideration of renewal of the KOZ and shared that the aim is to transform the neighborhood. Consideration of Action Items President Streater described the process of how Action Items would be presented for consideration: ● Action Item 8, FY2024 Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes - WITHDRAWN BY STAFF ● Priority Items: ○ Action Item 12, Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - Wexford ○ Action Item 13, Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - The Arsenal ○ Action Item 45, Amendment of Adoption of Board of Education Public Meeting Schedule 2023 ○ Action Item 46, Math, Science and Technology Community Charter School - Application for Charter Renewal ○ Action Item 47, Philadelphia Academy Charter School - Application for Charter Renewal
FINAL 8 ○ Action Item 48, The Jacquelyn Y. Kelley Discovery Charter School - Application for Charter Renewal ○ Action Item 49, Universal Alcorn Charter School - Application for Charter Renewal ○ Action Item 50, Universal Institute Charter School - Application for Charter Renewal ○ Action Item 51, Young Scholars Charter School - Application for Charter Renewal ○ Action Item 52, Franklin Towne Charter High School - Notice of Revocation of Charter ○ Action Item 55, Amendment to the Board's Goals & Guardrails Mission, Vision, and Indicators ● Consent agenda for the remaining Action Items, which are items 1-7, 9-11, 14-44 and 53-54
Item No. 1 - Acceptance of Donation from The Big Sandbox for Tanner Duckrey School ($1,150,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 2 - Approval of School Plans Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 3 - Approval of Personnel Hires (Updated 8.11.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 4 - Approval of Personnel Terminations (Updated 8.17.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 5 - Administration’s Recommendation for Termination of Professional Employees (Updated 8.17.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9
FINAL 9 No: 0
Item No. 6 - Approval of Resignations and Retirements (Updated 8.17.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 7 - Amendment to the Contract with Hartford Life and Accident Insurance Company - Basic Life and Accidental Death, and Dismemberment Programs ($2,969,844) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 8. FY 2024 Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes - WITHDRAWN BY STAFF
Item No. 9 - Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - The Enterprise Center (Updated 8.15.2023/Updated 8.16.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 10. - Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - Longfellow (Updated 8.15.2023/Updated 8.16.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 11. - Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - Stateside Vodka (Updated 8.15.2023/Updated 8.16.2023) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 12. - Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - Wexford (Updated 8.15.2023/Updated 8.16.2023) Vice President Fix-Lopez noted that given that concerns that the Board has expressed in the past and the commerce department's response, she is confident that the concerns of the Board have been taken seriously and that she has faith in Ms. Nadol and Ms. Summerville that they will continue to ensure that Career Connectedness remains a part of this work. Vice President Fix- Lopez also stated that she supports the Action Items brought forward noting that COVID-19 took us back years and therefore many of the projects did not have complete cycles. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson – 7 No: Ms. Danzy, Ms. Wilkerson - 2
Item No. 13. - Authorization for Keystone Opportunity Zone - The Arsenal (Updated 8.15.2023/Updated 8.16.2023) - FAILED Board Member Danzy and Board Member Lam expressed difficulty with this item noting that a need for clarification around the length of time that it has taken to complete the initial project and expressed concerns that this may create perverse incentives to hold land longer than necessary. Yes: , Ms. Egea-Hinton , Vice President Fix-Lopez,,Ms. Wilkerson – 3 No: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy Ms. Lam, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson - 6
Item No. 14. - Contract for Google Workspace for Education Plus Licenses ($1,214,765.37) UPDATED 08.14.23 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, President Streater, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Wilkerson – 8 No: Ms. Salley - 1
Item No. 15. - Amendment of the Supplemental Staffing Contracts with Various Vendors - No Cost Time Extension Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, President Streater, Ms. Thompson, Ms. Wilkerson – 8 No: Ms. Salley - 1
Item No. 16. - Change Orders at Various Locations ($1,225,693) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: Ms. Thompson - 1
Item No. 17. - Contract with Guaranteed On Site for Drapery Cleaning & Fireproofing Services ($350,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 18. - Ratification for an Amendment of a Contract with Applied Data Systems - Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) Archibus (MOJO) Hosting and Licensing ($455,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 19 - Ratification of a Contract with Meteor Education, LLC for the Purchase and Installation of Dividers at Lincoln High School ($400,000) Board Member Danzy expressed concerns regarding the effectiveness of installing dividers and asked for information regarding how the District will ensure that classrooms and teaching are not being interrupted by noise coming from the other side of the divider. Oz Hill, Chief Operating Officer provided a response. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, President Streater, Ms. Salley, Ms. Wilkerson – 7 No: Ms. Danzy, Ms. Thompson - 2
Item No. 20 - Amendment of Contract with Tozour Energy Systems for Unit Ventilators Programming Services ($1,500,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 21 - Contract with Carrier Corporation for HVAC System Maintenance and Components($6,000,000) Board Member Salley questioned how this action item fits into the overall strategy given the presentation provided this evening. Oz Hill, Chief Operations Officer, provided a response. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 22 - License Agreement with the City of Philadelphia for use of the Lincoln Pool Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 23 - The Camelot Schools of Pennsylvania, L.L.C. Alternative Education Program at Grover Washington, Jr. Middle School Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 24 - Memorandum of Understanding with District Management Group, LLC Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 25 - Memorandum of Understanding with Various Vendors for Vision Services Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 26 - Memorandum of Understanding with Community Partners for Dental Services Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 7 No: 0 Abstention - Ms. Thompson, Ms. Salley - 2
Item No. 27 - Memorandum of Understanding with Sandy Hook Promise - Acceptance of In-Kind Services Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 28 - Amendment of Contract for Supplemental Health Service Staff ($1,021,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 29 - Amendment of Agreement For Services - ELD Apparel, LLC - Purchase of Uniforms for Homeless Students ($600,000) - Updated 8.15.2023 Board Member Thompson asked a clarifying question to better understand how students will receive the uniforms being provided. Jermain Dawson, Deputy Superintendent for Academic Services Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 30 - Contracts with Various Vendors for Mental Health and Climate Initiatives ($780,000) - Updated 8.1.2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 31 - Authorization for Payment to Sixsmith's Sporting Goods, Inc. - Athletic Supplies and Equipment ($1,650,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 32 - Contract with Agile Sports Technologies (Hudl) - Sports Analytics Data Platform ($150,602) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 33 - Contract with Philadelphia Literacy Initiative - Preschool Program Support ($67,500) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 34 - Contract with Paul H Brookes Publishing Co., Inc – Pre-K Developmental Screening Activities ($213,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 35 - Contract with First Student, Inc. - Transportation Services for Athletic Events ($1,095,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 36 - Ratification of Contracts with Various Vendors - Supplemental Materials ($8,800,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: Ms. Thompson
Item No. 37 - Contract with Yondr for Phone Free School Environments ($2,000,000) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 38 - Neighborhood Gardens Trust - Community Garden at Steel School Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 39 - Ratification of Contracts with Various Vendors - Schools ($64,480) Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 40 - Amendment of Contract with Teaching Learning Solutions ($269,000) - Added 8.1.2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 41- Amendment of Contract with Blackney Hayes Architects for Professional Design Services for the TM Peirce Elementary School ($105,000) - Added 8.1.2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 42 - Capital Award for Schoolyard Improvements at William H. Hunter Elementary School ($1,110,000) - Added 8.1.2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 43 - Renewal of License Agreement with Today’s Child Learning Centers ($77,833.30) - Added 8.1.2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 44 - Stormwater Management Incentives Program (SMIP) Grant Acceptance and Subgrant Agreement for Horatio B. Hackett School - Added 8.1.2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 45 - Amendment of Adoption of Board of Education Public Meeting Schedule 2023 - Added 8.3.2023/Updated 8.10.2023 Board Member Lam expressed the importance of focusing in on the Board’s Goals and Guardrails and expressed hope that the separation of Goals and Guardrails Board Member Salley spoke about the cultural shift that Goals and Guardrails is intended to make and how the separation will how the Board to focus in on student achievement Board Member Egea-Hinton emphasizes how important it is to the Board to prioritize student achievement Board Member Danzy expressed a need to separate the progress monitoring sessions and stated that she is hoping to see increased engagement from the community as a result of this change. Board Member Thompson expressed support for separating out the Goals and Guardrails progress monitoring sessions. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9
No: 0 At approximately 10:25pm, Lisa Haver stated an objection to the Board voting on the Action Item 46 - 53 alleging a violation of the Pennsylvania SunShine Act.
Item No. 46 - Math, Science, and Technology Community Charter School – Application for Charter Renewal - Added 8.14.23
FINAL 17 A motion was made and seconded to approve the renewal charter for Math, Science, and Technology Community Charter School effective July 1, 2023. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 47 - Philadelphia Academy Charter School – Application for Charter Renewal - Added 8.14.23 A motion was made and seconded to approve the renewal charter for Philadelphia Academy Charter School effective July 1, 2023. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 48 - The Jacquelyn Y. Kelley Discovery Charter School – Application for Charter Renewal - 08.14.23 A motion was made and seconded to approve the renewal charter for The Jacquelyn Y. Kelley Discovery Charter School effective July 1, 2023. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 49 - Universal Alcorn Charter School – Application for Charter Renewal - Added 08.14.23 A motion was made and seconded to approve the renewal charter for Universal Alcorn Charter School effective July 1, 2023. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 50 - Universal Institute Charter School – Application for Charter Renewal - Added 08.14.23 A motion was made and seconded to approve the renewal charter forUniversal Institute Charter School effective July 1, 2023. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9
FINAL 18 No: 0
Item No. 51 - Young Scholars Charter School – Application for Charter Renewal - Added 08.14.23 A motion was made and seconded to approve the renewal charter for Young Scholars Charter School effective July 1, 2023 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 52 - Franklin Towne Charter High School – Notice of Revocation of Charter - Added 08.14.23 A motion was made and seconded to approve the Notice of Revocation of Charter for Franklin Towne Charter High School Board Member Thompson questioned if the Board of Education should hold students and families who are not responsible for the allegations accountable rather than the individual who are responsible. Board Member Salley asked President Streater if the Board of Education has received any outreach from the school’s new administration to speak with the Board of Education. Board Member Lam expressed that she believes the revocation process will be an opportunity for the Board of Education to learn more about what exactly took place and Vice President Fix-Lopez expressed the importance of understanding the options that are available to the Board of Education through the PA Charter School Law.
Board Member Egea-Hinton spoke about the responsibility of the Board of the Charter School and expressed an interest in learning more about what took place and if this is something that can be rectified. Board Member Danzy shared that while the school is doing well academically, the allegations alleged against Franklin Towne Charter High School signals a culture and questioned if the alleged practices are in response previous discussions regarding Board Member Salley echoed statements made by Vice President Fix-Lopez and shared that the revocation process will provide an opportunity for a holistic approach to auditing and understanding practices that led to the circumstances. President Streater shared comments noting that the Board of Education does not take the decision lightly and that any action the Board takes is not the result of the performance of Franklin Towne Charter School; rather, it is about how the school was conducting its lottery. President Streater
noted that Charter School Law requires that publicly-funded charter schools that enroll city-wide must use a fair lottery process that allows any student from any corner of the city to apply and have a chance to get into the school.
FINAL 19 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Wilkerson – 8 No: Ms. Thompson - 1
Item No. 53 - Settlement Agreement with the City of Philadelphia ($2,500,000) - Added 08.14.23 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 54 - License Agreement with Universal Vare Promise Neighborhood Partnership Charter School for use of the McDaniel Annex Building ($186,000) - Added 08.14.23 Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Thompson,Ms. Wilkerson – 9 No: 0
Item No. 55 - Amendment to the Board's Goals & Guardrails Mission, Vision, and Indicators - Added 08.14.23 Board Member Thompson expressed concerns regarding the lack of special education and English Language Learners being mentioned in the updated leading indicators. Yes: Ms. Andrews, Ms. Danzy, Ms. Egea-Hinton , Ms. Lam, Vice President Fix-Lopez, Ms. Salley, President Streater, Ms. Wilkerson – 8 No: Ms. Thompson - 1 Adjournment President Streater announced that the Board will hold its next policy committee meeting. President Streater announced that the Board will hold its next public business meeting on September 21, 2023, at 4:00 p.m., via hybrid format. On motion, the meeting was adjourned at 10:59 pm. Reginald L. Streater, Esq., President Board of Education
FINAL 20 Tony Watlington, Ed.D. Superintendent