After brief introductions, Leslie and Mexicotte were given a chance to ask the administrators any questions they had about the district and its operations.

Leslie took advantage of the occasion to talk about his campaign. He said he is familiar with the district, and made several criticisms – about the quality of instructional materials, the elimination of police liaisons in the high schools, and board’s goal setting.

Mexicotte responded to Leslie’s critique of the board by contrasting the goals that the board had set for itself internally with those it set for the district as a whole. Mexicotte had no informational questions of the administrators. She was first elected to the board in 2003 and currently serves as president of the board. Most recently, she was re-elected in 2010.

This year, the board seat that Leslie and Mexicotte are seeking will be for a four-year term ending in December 2016. The other six members of the AAPS board, whose terms continue at least through 2014, are Susan Baskett, Andy Thomas, Simone Lightfoot, Christine Stead, Glenn Nelson, and Irene Patalan.

Introductions 

AAPS director of communications Liz Margolis welcomed everyone to the meeting, and the attendees briefly introduced themselves. [Dale Leslie is a former business owner of Leslie Office Supply and a former board member of the Ann Arbor Area chamber of commerce, prior to its merger with the Ypsilanti chamber. Deb Mexicotte works for the University of Michigan as assistant director in the Office of New Student Programs.]

All 11 administrators in attendance gave a brief overview of the scope of their departments within the district, and passed out business cards to each candidate.

In addition to Margolis, the district was represented by: Robert Allen, deputy superintendent for operations; Jenna Bacolor, director of community education and recreation; Elaine Brown, assistant superintendent for student intervention and support services; David Comsa, deputy superintendent for human resources and general counsel; Alesia Flye, deputy superintendent for instructional services; Patricia Green, superintendent; Dawn Linden, assistant superintendent for elementary education; Jane Landefeld, director of student accounting and research services; Robyne Thompson, assistant superintendent for secondary education and career and technical education; and Randy Trent, executive director of physical properties.

Also present was Teri Williams, election coordinator for AAPS. She passed out contact information for all district central administrators, as well as a guide on compliance with the Michigan Campaign Finance Act, which school board candidates must follow. She urged the candidates to make sure any people who campaign on their behalf are also aware of the rules and regulations. Williams also referred the candidates to the Washtenaw County election office, as school district staff members do not advise school board candidates on campaign activities.

Leslie: Updating Instructional Materials

Dale Leslie indicated he was pleased to see the district hold such a forum for candidates. He stated that he’s familiar with how the district operates and how it should be improved, citing his experience as both an AAPS student and an AAPS parent. He highlighted a couple of the reasons why he was running for school board: a strong need for a different kind of educational paradigm – given that there will soon be teenagers in the high schools who were born in the 21st century – and a need for better communication.

When Leslie brought up the fact that the board recently had a presentation on replacing 10-year-old biology textbooks, Alesia Flye – deputy superintendent for instructional services – acknowledged the textbooks were outdated, which was the reason the board approved the purchase of new textbooks. Flye emphasized the curriculum review process that has been put in place over the past year, saying the community and the board should have a clear idea of instructional materials being used in the classroom. Superintendent Patricia Green added that the curriculum review cycle was implemented at the request of the board.

Leslie: Police Liaisons

Leslie asked if there had been any meetings with Ann Arbor police chief John Seto about negotiating the recent cuts to the district police liaison position. Leslie said that cutting all the positions was akin to “throwing the baby out with the bath water.” Green stated that before the positions were cut, there was significant conversation with the police chief. She said there have been subsequent conversations with city administrators and the police chief regarding different models of police involvement in schools. Green is advocating for regular meetings between the district, the police department, and city officials. [At the board's Aug. 15, 2012 meeting, the board heard public commentary calling for the positions not to be reinstated.]

Mexicotte: Board Leadership

Leslie also expressed dissatisfaction with the leadership on the school board, saying the foremost priority of the board should not just be “getting along with each other,” a goal the board identified at its recent retreat. He contended that the leader of the board should not have let it get to that point, a direct criticism of Mexicotte, the current board president.

When it was her turn to speak, Mexicotte thanked the administrators for their presence that evening, and said she had no questions. But she then took the opportunity to address Leslie, as both a candidate and a constituent. She clarified that the board set two goals for itself at their retreat in early August: the first, to build relationships and trust among the board members so they can work better together, and the second, to work towards being stronger financial advocates for the district. She said the next Committee of the Whole meeting [on Sept. 12, 2012] will be focused entirely on financial goals.

Mexicotte also acknowledged that the board, in conjunction with the district, works on a number of goals. She listed several that were worked toward over the past school year: the Achievement Gap Elimination Plan, the Discipline Gap Elimination Plan, energy policy, and curriculum review.

Upcoming Candidate Forum

The Ann Arbor Area League of Women Voters (LWV) will be holding a forum for school board candidates. [As of Aug. 31, the LWV website lists a candidate forum for board of education candidates to be held at 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 9 at the Community Television Network studio at 2805 S. Industrial Highway in Ann Arbor. The forums are typically broadcast live on CTN Channel 19 and are later available online for viewing on demand.]

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Current trustees Andy Thomas and Christine Stead were on hand to talk over the roles and responsibilities of a trustee. No potential candidates showed, however. Attendance at the information meeting was not mandatory for candidacy.

To appear on the ballot as a school board candidate, candidates must file paperwork at the Washtenaw County clerk’s office by Tuesday, Aug. 14 by 4 p.m. Candidates must file an affidavit of identity and either a nominating signature petition with the county clerk or, in lieu of the petition, pay a $100 nonrefundable fee. According to the Washtenaw County Clerk Elections website, for a nominating petition, candidates in districts with 10,000 or more in population such as Ann Arbor must collect a minimum of 40 signatures and a maximum of 100. Trustee Thomas strongly suggested getting more than the base 40 signatures, in case some of them turned out to not be valid AAPS district voters. The withdrawal deadline ends at 4 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 17.

An AAPS candidate meeting will be held on a yet-to-be-determined date in August at the Balas Administration Building. The League of Women Voters will be hosting a candidate forum before the November elections, date and time to be announced.

Write-in candidates must file a declaration of intent form by Friday, Oct. 26 by 4 p.m., just under two weeks before the Nov. 6 election.

For more information, prospective candidates to the board of education can contact Teri Williams, AAPS election coordinator, at 734-994-2233 or teriw@aaps.k12.mi.us. For election-specific information, candidates can contact Ed Golembiewski, director of elections, at the Washtenaw County clerk’s office at 734-222-6730 or golembiewskie@ewashtenaw.org. The county clerk’s office is located at 200 N. Main Street in downtown Ann Arbor.

Union members in the audience of the Dec. 14 AAPS board meeting. (Photos by the writer.)

Ann Arbor Public Schools Board of Education meeting (Dec. 14, 2011) Part 2: AAPS board of education trustees approved a contract with D.M. Burr, a Flint company, for heating, cooling, and ventilation services. Many local union members attended the meeting and spoke in opposition of the bid award to a non-local, non-unionized company.

At the opening of the Dec. 14, 2011 board meeting, board president Deb Mexicotte requested a moment of silence to acknowledge the recent loss of two students. Mariel Almendras, a second grader at Dicken, died of complications related to a rare ovarian cancer. Lucina Partis, an 11th grader at Skyline, died of accidental drowning in a bathtub in her home.

The final board meeting of 2011 also saw debate on a new state mandate to change board election dates to November in even-numbered years.

The board also discussed a number of first briefing items, and held discussion on minor resolutions.

Agenda Approval

Near the beginning of the Dec. 14 meeting, a review of the meeting’s agenda included a change proposed by trustee Andy Thomas to combine two agenda items: (1)  an informational presentation and board discussion on local contracting; (2) and the second briefing on the awarding of a contract for HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) journeyman services. It was also agreed to move the second briefing items earlier on the agenda, to accommodate the large number of community members in attendance with interest in the journeyman contract.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award

At the Nov. 30, 2011 regular board meeting, the board had considered as a second briefing a bid to contract with D.M. Burr of Flint, Mich., for 2,000 hours of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) journeyman services. The board typically sees resolutions twice – at a first briefing and at a second briefing, with a final vote taken at the second briefing.

However, on Nov. 30 the board voted to postpone the decision on the D.M. Burr contract. Trustees wanted additional information to be brought to the board’s Dec. 14 meeting by AAPS executive director of physical properties Randy Trent. Local union officials, including the president of the AAPS teachers’ union, spoke early in the meeting in opposition to awarding the bid to D.M. Burr.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: Public Commentary

Four local skilled trades workers addressed the board about their opposition to awarding the HVAC journeyman services bid to D.M. Burr.

Tom Yax, representing local plumbers and pipefitters, noted that all but one of D.M. Burr’s contracts with schools are to provide cleaning or maintenance services, not HVAC services. He also said that D.M. Burr has posted a job offer for this position, which says they need someone ASAP. Yax pointed out that more than five other contractors had bid on this, and urged the board to reconsider those bids. He closed with a quote he attributed to Benjamin Franklin: “The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten.”

Jim Burns said he represented approximately 10,000 members and their families from the Washtenaw County skilled building trades. He passed out literature from the 2004 and 2008 sinking fund millage campaigns, and noted that local skilled tradesmen had supported these millages, with the understanding that they would be supported in return. Burns also pointed out that the board did not have a policy on paying prevailing wage, and suggested that such a policy should be crafted.

During clarification on public commentary, trustee Glenn Nelson checked his understanding that the money for the HVAC journeyman would come from the general fund, not the sinking fund, and AAPS superintendent Patricia Green confirmed that was correct.

Ken Wadland, a local electrician, reminded the board that they are representing the school system as an employer, and urged trustees to look at the “total value” of a contract like this. Saying he can relate to the temptation to take a ridiculously low bid, Wadland said it usually turns out that those bids have a serious flaw – either the service is poor, the materials are poor, the workers not being paid well – something’s wrong.

Ron Motsinger of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local Union 252 distributed a picture to trustees of a part of an electrical system that was incorrectly installed, which could lead to a fire or electrocution. He asked the board to consider the risk of hiring less experienced workers to perform HVAC services. He reiterated that local skilled tradesmen go through years of an apprenticeship program and are well trained. Motsinger also urged the board to adopt a bid policy that supports local workers.

During clarification on public commentary, trustee Susan Baskett asked Trent to speak to the picture that Motsinger had distributed. Trent said that some of the AAPS buildings have been around for 100 years, and that when problems are reported, they are fixed. “With HVAC and electrical issues,” Trent said, “We have problems every day that we’re fixing.”

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: AAEA Report

AAEA president Brit Satchwell began his regular report to board members with a plea for them to reconsider the D.M. Burr bid. Satchwell said he understood the “seductive lure” of low prices, but cautioned the board – “you usually get what you pay for.” He pointed out that D.M. Burr has just started providing HVAC services, which makes it hard to do due diligence on determining if they are fully qualified for this job.

Satchwell noted that his father had designed bids in his professional career, and that his father had always advised to just throw out the outliers – bids at the high and low end – saying that the value was somewhere in the middle. “With such a short, non-existent track record,” Satchwell said, “it sounds to me like a roll of the dice.” He suggested that the board should instead hire experienced, local, trustworthy workers who have supported the school system and community year in and year out.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: Staff Report

AAPS executive director of physical properties Randy Trent came to the podium prepared to answer questions on a bid recommendation for HVAC journeyman services. At the Nov. 30 regular meeting, trustees had questioned whether D.M. Burr, the administration’s recommended contractor for this bid, was the right choice. Trent had come to the Dec. 14 meeting prepared to explain the rationale behind his recommendation.

Randy Trent, AAPS executive director of physical properties.

Trent went through a brief presentation that clarified that the D.M. Burr journeyman would not have farther to drive to reach Ann Arbor than the current journeyman servicing the district. He also compared the licenses and work experience of the current and proposed journeymen, in order to show that while D.M. Burr as a company may be new to providing HVAC services, the actual employee who would provide service to AAPS has had years of experience in this area and is fully licensed.

Trent reported that he had contacted 12 additional references for D.M. Burr (in addition to the three he had called initially) and that none of them had complaints. He stressed that the licensed mechanic D.M. Burr would provide is “more than capable of doing the job.” Trent added that D.M. Burr has offered to let the district out of the contract after 30 days for any reason, and that D.M. Burr is willing to adjust its bid higher “whatever the cost,” should it be the board’s desire to ensure that the workers sent to AAPS are paid prevailing wage.

Finally, Trent pointed out, “I fully understand that I work in the support area – every dollar that I can cut can go back into the classroom.” He acknowledged that the board has a difficult decision to make, especially in light of the public interest in this bid, but stood behind his recommendation to award the contract to D.M. Burr.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: Board Discussion – AFSCME?

Susan Baskett asked about the possibility of hiring an HVAC journeyman through the American Federation of State, County and Municipal employees (AFSCME) – the union representing current AAPS custodial and maintenance staff. She noted that doing so would actually save AAPS money, since AFSCME workers agreed to a contract last year that resulted in significant pay cuts.

Trent said that while he has been extremely proud of what the district’s custodial and maintenance staff has been able to do, that an AFSCME member could not be brought on to provide the HVAC journeyman services because it would have to be negotiated. Baskett questioned why the district did not simply invite AFSCME officials to reopen contract negotiations in order to be able to add another AFSCME member to the district’s internal staff.

Baskett pointed out that there is a history of going back to reopen specific contract items. She also asked AAPS deputy superintendent of human resources and general counsel Dave Comsa for confirmation that the district is not precluded from going back to any of its bargaining units to negotiate new positions.

Trent noted that hiring internally would be a longer-term engagement, and that it was his best judgment that the district would be better served by bidding out the HVAC services rather than “going back to AFSCME.” Comsa added that there was nothing “to [his] knowledge” precluding AAPS from reopening negotiations with AFSCME.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: Board Discussion – Reference Checks

Thomas thanked Trent for doing additional reference checks, and noted that it was well beyond the due diligence usually done for a bid recommendation. Thomas noted that in a list of reference check responses that Trent had prepared for the board, there were many positive references for other services D.M. Burr provided, such as janitorial and security services, but not for HVAC services.

Trent responded that there were three references for HVAC services– one from Carman Ainsworth Community Schools, one from Highland Park Independent School District, and one from a cinema. Baskett countered that in the e-mail the board received from Highland Park schools, HVAC services weren’t mentioned.

Trustees spent a few minutes reading through the references, including feedback that Trent had forwarded to them via e-mail. Simone Lightfoot thanked Trent for following up on more than three references.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: Board Discussion – Specific Employees

Lightfoot noted that she had recently toured some of the district’s boiler system and electrical rooms and had been impressed with the size and plethora of pipes and tubes underground and on the roofs, as well as by how much of it was unmarked. Given this, she said, she questioned how training would be done for a new individual who was wholly unfamiliar with the various systems at each AAPS building.

Trent responded that AAPS mechanical staff would work with the new person, just as they did with the current HVAC journeyman from Johnson Controls. Trent said that AAPS staff members have volunteered to come out on their own time to take the new journeyman through each of the buildings. He also noted that D.M. Burr had been given a tour of AAPS facilities when the district was previously looking at outsourcing custodial and maintenance services.

Lightfoot asked if Trent had met the actual individual to be assigned by D.M. Burr to the district, and Trent replied that he had spoken to him. She asked about that specific journeyman’s qualifications, and Trent reiterated that he holds appropriate licensure. Lightfoot asked how D.M. Burr ensures its staff’s licenses are kept current, and Trent explained that state licenses expire if required ongoing professional development is not completed.

Nelson pointed out that the D.M. Burr journeyman holds his own license, while the current Johnson Controls journeyman works under another person’s license. A union member in the audience, Andy Bronson, held up his hand and was recognized by Baskett. Bronson pointed out that he is a Johnson Controls worker who also has his own license, but Trent said Bronson’s license was not relevant – because he is not the current HVAC journeyman under discussion, to whom the potential D.M. Burr journeyman was being compared.

Lightfoot asked Trent if he was concerned that D.M. Burr had placed an ad for this a journeyman position on MLive, and Trent answered, “I am not regarding it and I would recommend that you don’t. I cannot tell you why they placed that ad. It does not concern me at all – I have the licenses of the person who will be working on our job.”

Trustee Christine Stead argued that D.M. Burr was not a qualified bidder, except for the specific journeyman. She suggested that the board should require the names of the specific employees D.M. Burr is assigning to AAPS to be listed in the contract “so there cannot be a bait and switch.” [In addition to the main journeyman, there is also a smaller, less technical maintenance position associated with the HVAC work.] Without the names included in the contract, Stead said, she would be unable to vote for the bid award.

Trustee Irene Patalan asked if an individual employee had ever been named in a bid, and asked Comsa if that was okay. Comsa said the contract can include whatever terms the board wants, including tying it to the specific individuals discussed. Lightfoot asked what happens if those people leave the company, and Comsa explained that the contract could be voided at that point. Mexicotte added that if the D.M. Burr employees were unable to fulfill their duties, the board would have full purview over their replacements.

Stead’s amendment – to tie the D.M. Burr contract to the specific employees AAPS had been offered – was amenable to the board.

HVAC Journeyman Bid Award: Board Discussion – General

Lightfoot said it was “scary” that D.M. Burr was willing to adjust its bid to “whatever the cost.” She said it seemed like a lot of work for the district. “I care that we get it right the first time,” Lightfoot asserted. “There clearly is something wrong with supporting this contract.”

Stead noted that while this is a small contract, AAPS is one of the largest businesses in the city with a budget larger than the city itself. She argued that the district needs a way to value the economic contribution of local businesses when considering bids, and said she had asked Comsa to explore some methodology to do so.

Nelson said he sees a vote for D.M. Burr as directly related to keeping class sizes lower, since the amount of savings brought by voting for this contract would roughly amount to what would be needed to hire another teacher.

Patalan commended Trent for his conscientiousness, and said he made her proud. “You answered my questions,” she said. “You looked out for the district, and you did what the board wanted you to do – to put our dollars as close as possible to the classroom while getting the best value possible.”

Baskett acknowledged that Trent’s work with the district over the years has been commendable, and apologized that she had not stated that sooner. She then listed numerous concerns regarding the D.M. Burr bid, saying that she did not think Trent would have made such a recommendation in the past.

Baskett questioned how long the D.M. Burr employee would be willing to work for such low wages and benefits, and if it will be long enough for him to become fully competent with the district’s HVAC systems. She again suggested going to AFSCME to reopen contract negotiations so someone else could be hired internally instead.

She again expressed concern that D.M. Burr was a significant outlier in terms of the other bids, and said that she did not think the board should “make even a hint of a promise” that the savings would be used to hire another teacher.

Baskett argued, “When I look at D.M. Burr, they are a generalist. I see what they’re doing – they are trying to buy their way in here.” She disagreed with Trent that the current AAPS staff would be as cordial as he is expecting to the D.M. Burr journeyman. “I don’t think the expectation Trent has of the current staff is realistic. Of course they are professional, but this person is coming in to possibly take their jobs.”

After the discussion, Baskett said, she felt even stronger in her position that D.M. Burr is not qualified.

Thomas said it had been a troubling issue to him for a number of reasons. Although he was not 100% convinced that D.M. Burr is the right choice, he was 99% convinced, and so he supported the bid recommendation.

Outcome: The HVAC journeyman services contract was awarded to D.M. Burr as proposed, with the motion to accept the contract passing 5-2. Trustees Lightfoot and Baskett dissented.

Resolution to Change Board Election Date

At 1:00 a.m., AAPS deputy superintendent of human resources and general counsel Dave Comsa brought a resolution to the board that would officially move the dates of future board elections to Novembers of even-numbered years, as Michigan law now requires.

The current election schedule for AAPS will include odd-numbered years. Deb Mexicotte’s seat is up for election in November 2012; Irene Patalan and Glenn Nelson are up for election in November 2013; Christine Stead and Susan Baskett are up for election in November 2014; and having just been re-elected last November, Simone Lightfoot and Andy Thomas will be up for election in 2015.

AAPS board members serve four-year terms. The recently passed state legislation enables local school boards to extend terms in order to comply with the law. In 2013, AAPS would likely need to extend the terms for Patalan and Nelson so that the seats could remain filled until November 2014. In a telephone interview, AAPS director of communications Liz Margolis told The Chronicle that the board does not need to act immediately – because the next scheduled election (this year) is in an even-numbered year.

Board president Deb Mexicotte pointed out that past legislation has always said that if AAPS began holding November elections, that the district would lose the right to move elections back to a different time of year in the future. Comsa pointed out that AAPS has no choice now except to hold elections in even-numbered Novembers.

Mexicotte argued that this is not a good idea, and expressed frustration that the state had “bludgeoned and coerced” districts into doing this. “It extends terms, or turns the board over in big chunks, and makes people have to run more expensively. I don’t want to pass this resolution. Sue us,” she said.

Comsa responded that it was his recommendation that the board complies with the resolution as presented. “I think you would be in a better position to adopt the resolution,” he added.

Mexicotte quipped, “Will we get more funding? Will they give us funding for mandates they are passing left and right?”

Nelson noted that while he shared Mexicotte’s frustration, he would support the resolution so that staff time and the district’s money would not be wasted fighting a lawsuit.

Thomas agreed. “We have our chief counsel telling us that it is his expert opinion that we should pass this, however distasteful this is.”

Stead noted that the cost of running will significantly shrink the field of board candidates, and asked Comsa what the ramifications would be if the board decided not to pass the resolution. Comsa said he would not speculate, adding, “I didn’t hazard that this issue might come up.”

Baskett referenced a point earlier in the meeting when Satchwell had held up a sign reading “resistance is not futile.” Patalan concurred, saying the community is not in favor of this.

Lightfoot noted that she would rather the district would protest the Race to the Top legislation, and that she would heed Comsa’s recommendation.

Baskett simply thanked Comsa for doing his job.

Outcome: By a vote of 4-3, the board voted against the resolution agreeing to hold board elections in even-numbered Novembers. Stead, Mexicotte, Baskett, and Patalan voted no. Thomas, Nelson, and Lightfoot voted yes.

After the vote, Mexicotte noted that alternate resolutions may be brought forward at a later date, and thanked trustees for their diligence in the matter.

Consent Agenda Approved

A consent agenda consisting of three main items, along with minutes approvals and gift offers, was approved unanimously by the board.

The three main items were the purchase of new sixth grade science kits, the approval of amendments to the district’s pension plans, and the approval of a resolution opposing Michigan House Bill 4770 (Public Employee Domestic Partner Benefit Restriction Act). Each item is briefly discussed below.

Consent Agenda: Sixth Grade Science Kits

At 11:45 p.m., the board opened its second briefing on the purchase of new science kits for sixth grade students. Though the science department chairperson Amy Dillar Deller was still present at the meeting, the board had no questions for her. Mexicotte said that she was impressed with Deller’s patience, and Nelson said to Deller, “Too bad you had to sit there all this time. Thank you for all your work.”

Consent Agenda: Amendment to District Pension Plans

AAPS director of finance Nancy Hoover explained that the law related to the pension plans offered by the district has changed, and asked the board to approve a resolution that authorizes the district to follow the law by amending the plans as required.

The item was presented to the board as a special briefing item, which meant that the board was giving final approval on its initial consideration of the item.

Consent Agenda:  House Bill 4770

Nelson introduced a resolution to formally oppose House Bill 4770, the Public Employee Domestic Partner Benefit Restriction Act. Though the bill had already passed both houses of the state legislature, it was awaiting Gov. Snyder’s signature at the time of the board meeting. Nelson explained that this bill would eliminate benefits for same-sex couples, and argued, “There is a chance that if the governor hears enough opposition, he will not sign it.” [Gov. Snyder did sign HB 4770 into law on Dec. 22, 2011.]

Nelson read the resolution, which noted that HB 4770

… would conflict with the high value we place on respect and celebration of diverse people including but not limited to diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions; … and would lessen the attraction of Ann Arbor and Michigan to people in same-sex relationships, or possibly in such a relationship in the future, and thereby decrease [the district's] ability to attract and retain excellent employees in such relationships.

Baskett thanked Nelson, saying the resolution was wonderful.

Financial Report

Allen began the first quarter financial report by noted that historically most of the changes to the budget take place in the second quarter, after the school year has begun in September. [The district’s fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30.]

AAPS director of finance Nancy Hoover noted that some savings have been realized by changing to 100% direct deposit for payroll, and that coaches are now also being paid by electronic transfer. Baskett asked whether all vendors, as well as the board members, could be paid electronically. Hoover noted that new software would allow the district to increase the number of electronic payments made.

Financial Report: First Quarter

AAPS deputy superintendent of operations Robert Allen made a brief presentation to the board, and noted that the district had spent 12% of its total budget in the first quarter, and that the board could expect that percentage to rise in the second quarter. He said he has begun to realign the expenditure categories based on audit results, and that those would come as future adjustments.

Stead asked, “Given the adjustments we’re expecting for the second quarter, and in terms of budget planning, what’s your best estimate of the kinds of reductions we need to plan for?” Allen said he still expected the district would need to look at reducing its budget by about $14 million.

Financial Report: Medicaid Revenue

Nelson asked what was meant by Medicaid revenue, which was bullet-pointed in Allen’s presentation.

Green explained that there are certain services that a district can be reimbursed for through Medicaid, depending on the actual service provided to special needs students.  She said that she had been concerned when she became superintendent of AAPS in July 2011, because she had not been able to locate any reimbursements – and she would have expected them to be a source of general fund revenue.

After much research, Green said, she was able to determine that an agreement was made within Washtenaw County a couple of years ago that the Washtenaw Intermediate School District would hold the funding in common, and that a portion of it might be used to purchase new human resources and financial software for the county and its districts.

Green noted that this was not a written agreement, and that it took her a lot of effort to determine that $1.4 million of the district’s funds have accrued over two years. She argued that this money should be returned to the district, and that it is the purview of the school board how this money should be used.

Allen added that the Medicaid revenue will be greater than $1.4 million because it does not yet include reimbursements from 2010-11. Nelson noted that he was very pleased and appreciative of this and pleased to hear it’s a number with seven figures in it. This is an example, he said, of where Green’s experience and “stick-to-it-ive-ness” is paying off.

Mexicotte said the way this money is being reported, and accounted for has been a concern in the special needs community for as long as she’s been involved. She said she is pleased Green has found additional money the district can use.

Outcome: The first quarter financial report will come before the board for a second briefing and a vote at the next regular board meeting.

Budget Planning Update

Allen said he was anticipating having a better sense of where the district stands in terms of funding after the state revenue conference is held in January 2012. Stead asked about the effect of a variety of factors on the possible funding, and Allen said nothing is settled yet. Allen added that the districts receive some information from the Michigan School Business Officials (MSBO), which has lobbyists who follow state actions more closely.

Patalan noted there had been a good turnout at the fall budget forums, and that she believed the community genuinely understood what the district was facing. She asked if there was a place for community feedback on the AAPS website.

Allen said that there is a suggestion box on the district website, and that he has also received some ideas directly via e-mail. Some ideas have been more detailed than others, he said, but all the suggestions are being compiled.

Baskett asked whether dates have been set for winter budget forums, and Allen said they have not been set yet, but that they would not occur until a budget had been proposed.

Budget Planning: Public Commentary

Mark Quigley said he was there to help, and presented two concrete ideas to the board regarding the budget. First, Quigley suggested that the board require restitution from the employees who carried ineligible health care dependents on their insurance plans up until a recent dependent audit. “Is it right, legal, moral, ethical to allow your employees to steal from you? Our money went to fraud, abuse, and waste,” Quigley asserted. The recent audit revealed $766,000 was spent on ineligible dependents.

During clarification on public commentary, AAPS deputy superintendent of human resources and general counsel Dave Comsa clarified that there were 200 employees who self-reported ineligible dependents. He also noted that in order to get maximum participation in the audit, there is a standard clause stating that employees would be held harmless if they responded. Comsa added, “I would be cautious of accusing people of criminal activity – I don’t believe that there was any.” He stressed that AAPS has saved $0.75 million as result of the audit.

Quigley’s second budget suggestion was that the district should shift more of costs of football parking on the Pioneer lot to the University of Michigan (UM). He suggested that the UM should pay for the cost of policing the lot, and noted that the “mulit-million dollar” parking contract is coming up for renegotiation soon – “Let’s put more of the expenses on [UM] and leave more for our children.”

During clarification on public commentary, Mexicotte asked the administration about the status of the current parking negotiations. Allen answered that the AAPS parking contract with UM expires at the end of the year, and that negotiations for a new contract will start in January. Mexicotte asked who was responsible for that negotiation, and Allen answered that it is Tim Gruszczynski, Supervisor of Environmental Services, and the Allen and Trent also have input.

AAPS Educational Foundation Grant Awards

The board held its first briefing of a list of grants being conferred by the AAPS educational foundation (AAPSEF). It was late in the meeting and AAPSEF Wendy Correll, who had made a presentation thanking major donors earlier in the meeting, had left the meeting by the time the item came before the board.

Mexicotte noted that the total amount of grants being awarded was $177,000, and that the impact of these grants would be felt by more than 30,000 students. “These are substantial awards around important programs,” she said, adding in reference to the fact that Correll was no longer present, “I look forward to saying additional things at second briefing.”

Board members highlighted individual grants on the list for recognition, including seed money for document cameras, the elementary enrichment coordinator program, and scholarship programs.

Green noted that one of the grants is the Karen B. Thomas Memorial Fund, started in honor of trustee Andy Thomas’ late wife. Green invited Thomas to describe the work of the grant.

Thomas explained that the purpose of the grant is to encourage reading and a love of reading at the elementary level, particularly among students who are economically disadvantaged. He described some projects funded by the grant, including the addition of classic literature at Pittsfield, co-support of an after-school reading club at Mitchell, and the refreshing of the library at Bryant. Thomas said in the future that that the Karen B. Thomas Memorial Fund might be used to purchase a set of Kindles for student use.

Patalan thanked Thomas for the grant, and said she was glad the board took a minute to talk about the literacy projects. “The whole piece of literacy … it’s simple,” she said, “but we can’t take it for granted.”

Outcome: Discussion and approval of these AAPSEF grants will continue as a second briefing item at the next regular board meeting.

Fines and Obligations Policy

Green introduced this item, saying that she was hoping this policy would streamline some of the inconsistencies she has seen across the district in terms of how student fines and obligations are handled. She noted that there has not previously been a district-wide policy on this issue One one goal of such a policy would be to ensure that students are not kept out of school because of outstanding fines or obligations.

Green invited Robert Allen and Alesia Flye, AAPS deputy superintendent of instruction, to discuss the proposed policy and associated regulations. Allen began by noting that he and Flye had worked with a committee, solicited input from building principals, and reviewed similar policies in other districts.

Allen read the proposed policy in its entirety:

The District will provide educational material, including textbooks or other tools and supplies necessary to access the curriculum during the normal academic year. Students are expected to return all educational materials in satisfactory condition at the time and location designated by school personnel. Should material be determined lost or stolen, or the material returned is in unsatisfactory condition, the superintendent or designee has the authority to collect an amount equal to the replacement value of the material. Circumstances may be such that alternative arrangements can be made with designated school personnel.

Trustees had no comments regarding the policy itself, but did suggest a few changes to the regulations. The board does not have purview over the regulations directly, but can make recommendations about them to administration.

Flye noted that earlier in the 2011-12 school year, there had been an incident where students had lost instructional time due to fines, and that that was not acceptable. Baskett questioned how these staff errors were addressed, and Comsa answered that an investigation was undertaken and that principals were advised that school policies should not prohibit students from participating in instructional time. Baskett said she knew of a student who had requested a letter of apology over the matter, and AAPS assistant superintendent of secondary education Joyce Hunter confirmed that such a letter had been sent.

Lightfoot suggested including parents earlier in the communitcation loop regarding fines.

Baskett suggested some clarifying wording changes, and confirmed that students do get a receipt when they return a book or other materials. She suggested that PowerSchool could be used to record receipts instead of generating more paper.

Thomas stated that this is a very well-crafted and well-designed policy that strikes a good balance between protecting the rights of students to receive an education, but still providing some consequences if they don’t return a book without making arrangements.

Nelson suggested cross-referencing this policy with the equity policy to make their relationship explicit.

Mexicotte suggested that the replacement value charged to students should reflect the condition of the book, and that she would suggest giving school administration the power to use their best judgment in waiving fees. She said she would like to see a way for students to agree on the condition of the books they are given when they receive their textbooks, and agreed that parents should be kept in the loop better.

She expressed some discomfort with the punitive nature of the policy, but said she was pleased that students’ instructional time and grades will not be affected by outstanding fines. She wanted to be sure that being on a payment plan was seen as sufficient in allowing students to participate in extracurricular activities.

Mexicotte also said she liked the idea of having related policies noted, and wanted to be sure that the policy is the same across all grades and all schools. Finally, she asked if there were other items that should be included, such as instruments or field trips fees.

Thomas noted that holding the final report card is an empty threat, meaning it would not be a motivation to pay fines.

Mexicotte thanked the administration for their work on this policy and its regulations, saying it showed how AAPS is passionate about getting students the equipment they need.

Outcome: This was the first briefing on this item. Any suggested changes or modifications will be incorporated before this item comes back to the board for a second briefing.

Other Public Commentary

The meeting also included public commentary on other topics.

Other Comment: Buses

Peggy Connors spoke to the board about bus service to Slauson middle school and Pioneer High School. She said that buses have been taken away from kids living between Liberty Street and Scio Church Road. In the morning, she said, it’s dark, and there are wooded areas lining the walk route. Saying she had tried the route herself, Connors noted that she was almost hit by a car, and argued that it’s a dangerous route for kids. She asserted that the costs of using the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority buses are prohibitive if a low-income family has multiple children with an adult who also needs to use public transportation to get to work. She requested that AAPS restore bus service to the area as soon as possible.

Other Comment: Buses, Privatization

Ronnie Rosner spoke to the board as volunteer and mother of five. She stated that she was there to strongly voice her opposition to the privatization of custodial staff and bus drivers. Saying she believed this could compromise the safety of AAPS school children, and lead to the layoff of some of custodial staff and bus drivers. Their pensions could also be negatively affected, she said. “There is no guarantee that privatizing these jobs could save money,” she argued.

During clarification on public commentary, Green and Lightfoot shared a concern regarding the busing situation that Connors had mentioned, and Green requested that Allen contact Connors and take another look at that situation. Mexicotte also pointed out that there is no proposal currently being considered by the board to privatize bus drivers or custodians.

Board Associations

The board invited regular reports from six organizations – the Youth Senate, the Ann Arbor Parent Advisory Committee on Special Education (AAPAC), the Parent-Teacher-Organization Council (PTOC), the Black Parents Student Support Group (BPSSG), the Ann Arbor Administrators Association (AAAA), and the Ann Arbor Education Association (AAEA). At the Dec. 14 meeting, the AAPAC and the AAEA were present to address the board.

Board Associations: AAPAC

Kathy Zager-Doxey thanked her son’s teacher, and Kelly Van Singel, a parent who recently gave a presentation highlighting how the iPod and iPad can be used to help students with special needs. Zager-Doxey pointed out that the slides from Van Singel’s presentation, “Happy to be Appy” are available on the AAPAC website.

Zager-Doxey also said the AAPAC is looking forward to increased partnership with SISS, and thanked Erik Thompson, assistant director of student intervention and support services for elementary buildings, for recently giving AAPAC a district update.

Finally, she noted that the district’s Disability Awareness Workshops would continue, and said that the AAPAC was looking forward to an upcoming report from AAPS superintendent Patricia Green on disproportionality in special education services, because many behaviors among special education students are manifestations of their disabilities.

Board Associations: AAEA

In addition to the part of his report regarding the journeyman services bid [described above], teachers’ union president Brit Satchwell noted that the State Senate is considering a bill (SB 865) which would “referendum-proof” the newly-enacted state emergency manager law (Public Act 4). He argued, “Many of these emergencies that we’re facing, that cities are feeling, are in part manufactured emergencies, for which those people are then blamed and have to suffer. How they do this without tanks rolling in the street is amazing to me.”

Satchwell urged everyone to advocate for the repeal of PA 4, and pointed out that the state is considering sending emergency managers to Detroit and Inkster. “If those two cities fall,” Satchwell pointed out, “over half of the African-Americans in this state will have lost their vote and be under authoritarian rule – no mayor, no county commissioners, no school board … If you’re an American this has to bother you.”

Awards and Accolades

The board acknowledged two major donations at the meeting, as well as successes of various students, staff, and schools.

Awards and Accolades: AAPS Education Foundation

Green pointed that the AAPS Educational Foundation (AAPSEF) recently received two substantial donations that she felt needed recognition in front of the board. AAPSEF executive director Wendy Correll expressed appreciation for a $50,000 donation from IMRA America (IMRA), a local high-tech company, and for a $10,000 gift from the Dearborn Federal Credit Union (DFCU).

Correll also announced that the AAPSEF would be partnering with Champions for Charity to put on the first Ann Arbor Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K and 1.2 mile runs, and will be receiving philanthropic donations from the events.

Baskett asked how the AAPSEF formed relationships with IMRA and DFCU. Correll explained that IMRA approached the district as a way of being philanthropic in their community, and that DFCUapproached the AAPSEF because it is part of their mission to support education. Nelson expressed his excitement about the partnerships, and noted that the equipment that can be purchased with their donations makes learning math and science even more fun.

Board members thanked Correll for her work and for her leadership. Correll thanked the board for giving the space at this meeting to acknowledge these donors.

Awards and Accolades: Superintendent’s Report

Superintendent Green acknowledged “activities that have brought honor to our students and our schools,” including winners of various statewide competitions and contests, and community services projects undertaken by various school groups.

Student Disciplinary Action

Mexicotte explained that the board needed to share its reasoning behind a decision recently made in closed session concerning a student disciplinary action. She moved that the board reduce the disciplinary action to “level 3” to allow Student A to return to his or her school of origin, and noted that “this reduction in disciplinary action was due to the board’s determination that the weapon was not possessed for use as a weapon.”

Baskett questioned whether the word “weapon” should be used twice, and Mexicotte said the wording had come out of the closed session and could not be changed.

Outcome: The board unanimously approved Mexicotte’s motion to reduce the disciplinary aciton.

Agenda Planning

Mexicotte noted that she would be contacting each board member about the proposed agenda for the board’s upcoming organizational meeting on Jan. 18. The meeting will include the assignment of officer positions, ad-hoc committee positions, and board representation on administrative and community committees.

New Process and Procedure

The Dec. 14 board meeting saw the introduction of two new items.

New Process: Online Meeting Packets

The district piloted a new, online board packet at the Dec. 14 meeting. It can be viewed at this link: AAPS online board packet. Board secretary Amy Oskinski spent 15 minutes at the beginning of the Dec. 14 meeting orienting trustees to the new system and highlighting its technical features.

New Process: Meeting Adjournment Procedure

Mexicotte requested a motion to adjourn the meeting, a new parliamentary procedure for the board, which she said will help prevent her from inadvertently adjourning the meeting preemptively. The Dec. 14, 2011 meeting was adjourned at 2:07 a.m.

Present: President Deb Mexicotte, vice-president Susan Baskett, secretary Andy Thomas, treasurer Irene Patalan, and trustees Simone Lightfoot, Glenn Nelson and Christine Stead.

Absent: None

Next Regular Meeting/Annual Organizational Meeting: Jan. 18, 2012, 7 p.m., in the fourth-floor conference room of the downtown Ann Arbor District Library, 343 S. Fifth Ave.

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A "No Nut" sign was posted at the entrance to Thursday's AAPS board candidate forum. It did not appear to relate to the event. (Photos by the writer.)

Candidates for the two open seats – each for four-year terms on the seven-member school board – are Albert Howard, Ahmar Iqbal, Patrick Leonard, Larry Murphy, and incumbents Simone Lightfoot, and Andy Thomas.

The forum was hosted by the Ann Arbor Open Coordinating Council, and was moderated by AAOCC co-chair Sascha Matish. After brief opening statements from all candidates, they responded to a series of six questions that had been submitted by parents whose children attend Ann Arbor Open.

Questions covered the topics of programs of choice, standardized testing, state-mandated initiatives, the district’s budget, class size, and the proposed technology millage. Summaries of each candidate’s answers are provided below, presented in the order in which they responded.

For previous Chronicle coverage of the school board candidates, including more about their backgrounds, see: “Forum for Six AAPS Candidates“ and “Election 2011: AAPS Board Candidate Forum.”

This year, the general election falls on Nov. 8. Readers who are unsure where to vote can type their address into the My Property page of the city of Ann Arbor’s website to get that information. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Programs of Choice

Question: Most of the “choice” programs – Ann Arbor Open, Community High, the Skyline High magnet programs – have many more applicants than they have space. Ann Arbor Open has consistently high test scores and often ranks in the top 10 middle schools in the state. What is your position on open education in the AAPS? Do you support an expansion of open education programs in the AAPS?

Programs of choice: Albert Howard

Howard focused on the need to realize that each child is different, and said the goal of a student’s education should be to tap their creativity and nurture their development. He said that competition is good.

Programs of choice: Ahmar Iqbal

AAPS has some of the highest-achieving schools in the state, Iqbal noted. Why aren’t the factors driving success in the programs of choice inculcated into the rest of AAPS schools?  These successful approaches should be available for all children, he said. Education in the district can be a brand of excellence for all, not just for a few, he said.

Programs of choice: Patrick Leonard

Leonard supported expansion of the district’s programs of choice. One of his University of Michigan professors who encouraged him to run for school board taught him that children respond to an individualistic approach, he said. He noted that Ann Arbor Open is based on the work of John Dewey, who advocated for this style of education. But it could be difficult to expand, given the district’s current resources, he said.

Simone Lightfoot, Larry Murphy.

Programs of choice: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot would like to see the district better infuse choice programs throughout all the schools, especially as a way to address the district’s achievement gap. She hoped that would happen now that the new superintendent has been hired – Patricia Green has a five-year contract, which should provide a level of stability, she said. Lightfoot noted that some programs work best because of their small scale, and couldn’t be transplanted to large schools. However, certain principles of the programs of choice could be adapted to other environments. She said the district needs to preserve the programs of choice.

Programs of choice: Larry Murphy

Murphy also said he’d support expanding alternative approaches, as a way of preventing an exodus of students to charter schools, which is important, he said. But perhaps some students need more formal settings, too, he added, like programs that focus on reading, writing and arithmetic.

Programs of choice: Andy Thomas

One of the district’s strengths is its diversity of opportunities, Thomas said. Two examples are the new International Baccalaureate program – Washtenaw International High School – being run by the Washtenaw Intermediate School District, and the Mitchell-Scarlett partnership with the University of Michigan. But they shouldn’t just add more students to existing programs, he said. And some students wouldn’t do well in certain programs. The district needs a smorgasbord of choices, he said.

Standardized Testing

Question: What are your views on the increased reliance on standardized testing in the AAPS, in evaluating student achievement as well as using the results in evaluating teachers?

Standardized testing: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal said he didn’t really know enough about standardized tests. His two children have attended multiple schools, including some overseas, and tests helped benchmark their progress. So some sort of baseline is useful, he said. Tests also help teachers identify where students need more help. He noted that AAPS is using the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) assessment to address the achievement gap, but said there’s no plan to gauge its benefit. There needs to be an explicit benefit to testing, he said.

Patrick Leonard.

Standardized testing: Patrick Leonard

Leonard said he doesn’t support the new state legislation that says by 2013-14 that 50% of a teacher’s evaluation should be based on student performance. He said he talked with the head of the Ann Arbor teachers’ union, Brit Satchwell, to clarify that the current teacher contract does not include the 50% provision. This year in the district, 20% of teachers’ evaluations will be based on demonstrated student academic growth.  The state is trying to make everyone accountable, he said, but that doesn’t give teachers room for creative pedagogy. He said he’s talked to state Rep. Jeff Irwin about the issue.

Standardized testing: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot said standardized testing is the kind of issue where it’s helpful to have your children in the school system, as she does, so that you can see how they are affected. There are many things that standardized tests don’t measure, she noted, such as resourcefulness and critical thinking. Those skills don’t show up on tests. Lightfoot also objected to the fact that some testing is an unfunded mandate by the state.

Standardized testing: Larry Murphy

Murphy said he knows it’s an unpopular opinion, but some kind of baseline is needed. However, he’s wary of using standardized tests to measure teacher performance. Teachers have no control over which students get assigned to their classes, he noted – it’s random. He’s also concerned about too much reliance on the NWEA and MEAP.

Standardized testing: Andy Thomas

One of his core values, Thomas said, is the need to make data-driven decisions. He described the MEAP as worthless, but said he’s a supporter of the NWEA. The previous night, the board had a good committee meeting where board members discussed state-mandated changes to teacher evaluations, he said, and Ann Arbor will lead the way for best practices in that area. He looks forward to implementing the changes.

Standardized testing: Albert Howard

Standardized tests can be politically motivated, Howard said – it’s important to define “the voice behind the voice.” No Child Left Behind mandates are one of the worst outcomes of the Bush presidency, he said. There’s a language of brilliance that children speak, Howard said. Schools should never label a child based on standardized testing, nor base teacher performance on those outcomes.

State Reforms

Question: Do you agree with the bulk of Gov. Rick Snyder’s and the state legislature’s reforms affecting public education? What role do you feel the Ann Arbor school board should play in responding to those reforms?

State reforms: Patrick Leonard

Leonard noted that in responding to a similar question on the Ann Arbor Schools Musings blog, he indicated that he didn’t support any of the proposed reforms except for one: a teacher evaluation system tied to student academic growth. However, evaluations shouldn’t be solely based on student test scores, he said, but should include a more comprehensive set of factors. School board members can be strong advocates in Lansing, he said.

State reforms: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot said Lansing doesn’t “get it.” In Ann Arbor, people have been reluctant to play politics, she said – it’s seen as nasty, and not polite. But state legislators keep making budget cuts, so local educational leaders need to get involved. She said when she was first elected to the board, she was the lone voice urging AAPS to lobby in Lansing, and now they’re doing that. The board needs to do a better job in enlisting the community to lobby, too, she said.

State reforms: Larry Murphy

Murphy said he agrees with proposed changes in the teacher tenure law. He didn’t feel that the number of charter schools is a threat to public schools yet, so removing the cap on the number of charter schools wasn’t a concern. AAPS needs to stand out by example, he said.

Andy Thomas.

State reforms: Andy Thomas

In evaluating these reforms, Thomas said, the mantra should be: What’s best for the children? But these laws are being proposed with a completely different agenda, he said, that involves busting the teachers’ unions and wresting power away from local school boards. At an AAPS board committee meeting the previous night, he said, trustees discussed a possible board resolution that would oppose elimination of the personal property tax. If the PPT is eliminated, he said, that would have a huge impact on all school districts, in terms of revenue. Holding legislative breakfasts is a good idea, Thomas said, and it’s important to involve the entire county, not just Ann Arbor.

State reforms: Albert Howard

The governor lives in Ann Arbor, Howard noted. Snyder is out of touch – he doesn’t interact with people who are involved in decision-making in the school districts. Board members should highlight the district’s successes, he said, and tell state legislators not to mess up what’s working well.

State reforms: Ahmar Iqbal

The state’s School Aid Fund should be used for K-12 education, not higher education, Iqbal said. He called for AAPS to hire a lobbying firm that could provide policy updates to the board on action in Lansing. But the board needs to focus on Ann Arbor. He said the district’s total general fund budget revenues had increased from last year to this year by $2 million. Yet even with this increase, he said, there were still cuts to busing and teachers. [Included in the AAPS approved budget document for 2011-12 are total general fund revenue figures of $184.13 million in 2010-11 compared with $186.03 million for 2011-12. That's where Iqbal gets his $2 million figure. In years after that, the projections for that figure show decreasing amounts: $182.81 million, $177.29 million and $176.22 million in successive years. The approved total expenditures for the 2010-11 AAPS budget stood at $185.3 million, while in 2011-12, that figure was $183.62 million. The 2011-12 budget included an appropriation from fund equity of $800,000.]

Budget Involvement

Question: What kind of involvement should parents and taxpayers have in AAPS budget discussions?

Budget involvement: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot urged the community to attend upcoming budget forums that are being hosted by AAPS. [The forums are scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 10 at Huron High School's cafeteria and on Monday, Nov. 14 at Pioneer High School's cafeteria annex. Both forums begin at 6:30 p.m.] More detail should be provided in the proposed budget, she said – an itemized listing for each category. Information needs to be provided in a timely way, with a website that’s easy to navigate. She also said school officials shouldn’t put up defenses when challenged about the budget.

Budget involvement: Larry Murphy

In a meeting earlier this year with candidates and the administration, Murphy said, he had urged officials to make budget information available earlier and in more detail. It looks like the district is doing that, he said. As an example of how more details would help, a line item in the current budget proposed $475,000 in cuts to athletics. But it didn’t indicate that the cuts would significantly reduce freshman sports, he said. That level of detail is important in making decisions. Pushback on budget decisions is good, he said. It helps the board gauge what’s important to the community.

Budget involvement: Andy Thomas

The point of the upcoming budget forums is to help prioritize, Thomas said. These are difficult discussions. Many people feel that participation in athletics isn’t important, for example, while others feel that it is. The other side is revenue, he noted. There’s an important bond proposal that will likely be put before voters in May, which will ask them to support a millage for technology enhancements in the district, he said. Parents need to get involved in these discussions. He also said another countywide schools enhancement millage should be considered. Such a millage was on the ballot in 2010 but defeated by voters. It’s time to give that another try, he said.

Albert Howard.

Budget involvement: Albert Howard

Safety needs to come first, Howard said, and if busing is not reinstated by the winter, then superintendent Patricia Green needs to resign. She shouldn’t be attending a $50 per plate NAACP dinner when this issue is unresolved, he said. If he can’t trust officials with the budget, how can he trust them with his children, he wondered.

Budget involvement: Ahmar Iqbal

When Iqbal asked how many people in the audience attended the AAPS budget forums in January, a few people raised their hands. He said he found them useless, in part because the sessions only focused on about 5% of the budget. The other 95% had already been decided, he said. Instead of breaking into small groups, the attendees should have talked together and duked it out regarding budget priorities. He’d like to see the process start with a blank page, so that people could list what’s important to them, and start allocating resources. He objected to the district’s use of so many consultants, for example.

Budget involvement: Patrick Leonard

The community’s involvement shouldn’t be limited, Leonard said. He gave an example of a woman who spoke to the board during one of its meetings during public commentary, who was apologetic and indicated that she didn’t feel she had the credentials that others did in giving their opinions. But regardless of background or education level, people know their neighborhoods and schools, and their opinions are valuable, he said.

Class Size

Question: What do you consider a reasonable class size at the elementary and middle school levels, and what strategies would you advocate to preserve those class sizes?

Class size: Larry Murphy

Murphy pointed out that his campaign motto is “More teachers, less overhead.” His sons’ classes have 23 and 27 students, but Emerson School – a private school – has about 15 students per classroom, he said. Another private school, Daycroft Montessori, advertises that it has two teachers per classroom, he noted. There are 744 AAPS teachers now, he said, compared to 807 in the past – he wants to get back to that former level.

Larry Murphy.

Class size: Andy Thomas

Ideally, Thomas said, there would be about 22 students in K-2 classes, 25-28 students in grades 3-5, and no more than 30 students in middle school and high school classes. But the fact is that the budget is continually shrinking, he said. The biggest challenge is a structural deficit related to increased costs that the district doesn’t control, he said, like the state-mandated retirement fund. The board needs to think about how to increase revenues – and that means a countywide enhancement millage. Thomas noted that Murphy opposed a technology enhancement millage, but Thomas said he hoped Murphy would support a millage that would allow AAPS to hire more teachers.

Class size: Albert Howard

Teachers should be treated like royalty, Howard said. He’d like to start with classes of around 15 students. There needs to be a safety net, and schools should feel like family. “This is not blood money,” he said. “This is flesh and blood.”

Class size: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal began by saying “I think the ideal class size would be one to one” – a statement that drew good-natured laughter from the audience. His son’s 7th grade classes have between 31-39 students, and his daughter’s high school classes are large. On a recent curriculum night, some of the rooms were so crowded with parents that it was standing room only. It’s the board’s responsibility to figure out the best way to address this issue, he said. Some classes might work with more students in a lecture-style approach, while others – like a writing class – might be best with under 20 students. He felt like the district is at a tipping point in terms of asking voters for more money.

Class size: Patrick Leonard

Leonard said that everyone would want a one-on-one teaching situation, but realistically that’s not possible. The district has had to make $50 million in cuts over the last five years, and there have been additional cuts in state funding. It’s the state that provides funding for about 75-80% of the district’s budget, he noted, but the state has different priorities. He said he’d support an enhancement millage.

Class size: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot indicated she’d be comfortable with about 22 students in K-2 classes, and less than 30 in grades 3-12. The high schools should consider offering some auditorium-sized classes – perhaps up to 80 students – that would help prepare students for college-style courses. The district should do a better job of getting grant funding, she said – not for new programs, but to support existing work. She also advocated for soliciting revenue-raising ideas from the community, and to market what the district does well. AAPS could also save money by using its own staff to conduct professional development, rather than hiring consultants, she said.

Technology Millage

Question: Do you support the millage to fund technology improvements across AAPS that will come before voters in 2012? Why or why not? [Editor's note: The tech millage, if approved by voters, would pay for bonds issued in three series, beginning in 2012, 2015, and 2019. In each case, the expected life of the technology products to be purchased would be longer than the length of time it will take to pay off that series of bonds, which is also a legal requirement. See The Chronicle's coverage of the technology bond being considered for more details: "AAPS to Float February Tech Millage" ]

Tech millage: Andy Thomas

Thomas supports a tech millage – the schools need to be well-equipped with current technology, and in many cases students are using systems that are outdated. Laptops get dropped or smeared with peanut butter, he said. The district needs to make a significant investment in infrastructure, he said, that could connect classrooms remotely, for example. He said he thinks the voters will get behind a technology enhancement millage.

Tech millage: Albert Howard

Howard also supports the millage. Technology should be used to enhance creativity, but shouldn’t be a marketing tool, he cautioned. Children shouldn’t be intimidated by technology. They shouldn’t been concerned over whether it’s a Dell or Apple computer.

Ahmar Iqbal.

Tech millage: Ahmar Iqbal

Before the district embarks on any capital expenditure, Iqbal said, it should be measured in terms of how it benefits the students. The district should also be clear about how the technology enhancements are accounted for – as operating expenses, or capital expenses that can be depreciated. When the AAPS 2009 technology plan was written, 16 people were involved and produced an 80-page report. But now, it’s not clear how the technology millage would be spent – that’s outrageous. He wouldn’t support the millage until the district can show how the $46 million in proceeds would be used.

Tech millage: Patrick Leonard

Leonard supports the millage, and cited the importance of being able to make connections between schools within the district, or with other schools in the state or nation. This district isn’t tech savvy, he said, and the millage would help. Ann Arbor Open has a partnership with Comcast, which he’d read about in the Ann Arbor Open newsletter, and which is supposed to help bridge the digital divide. It’s important to provide these kinds of opportunities, he said.

Tech millage: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot said that Iqbar’s question is a good one. The board talked about the possible uses of the millage at a recent committee meeting, she said, “so stay tuned.” She noted that when she served in the U.S. Air Force, rotary dial phones were used – even though the Air Force has a reputation of being technologically advanced. The same is true at AAPS. The district needs better technology so it can offer online classes, or use Skype so that courses can be viewed remotely. AAPS also needs to look at more partnerships, with Comcast, Google or other firms. She expressed some concern over relying too heavily on technology, however.

Tech millage: Larry Murphy

Too often, Murphy said, people look at technology as a panacea. Too often, person-to-person interactions are discounted. His wife is a professor at the University of Toledo, and has described the difficulties that college students have when they take online courses. It would be even more difficult for K-12 students, he said. Murphy said he’s on the record in opposing the technology millage, but he would definitely support a broader enhancement millage, if it could be used to hire more teachers.

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Simone Lightfoot draws a number out of the hat, held by League of Women Voters member Judy Mich, to determine speaking order. From left to right (front to back): Albert Howard, Ahmar Iqbal, Patrick Leonard, Simone Lightfoot, Larry Murphy, Andy Thomas. (Photos by the writer.)

Candidates were asked about bullying, their candidacies, technology, transportation, and partnerships between AAPS and other entities. The forum was sponsored by the local League of Women Voters, and broadcast live from the studio at Community Television Network (CTN).

The video can be re-played online through CTN’s video-on-demand service.

League member Susan Greenberg opened the forum, introducing the six school board candidates – Albert Howard, Ahmar Iqbal, Patrick Leonard, Larry Murphy, and incumbents Simone Lightfoot, and Andy Thomas.

Election Day is Nov. 8. Voters will be asked to choose up to two candidates to serve four-year terms on the seven-member board. Board members not standing for election this time around are: Deb Mexicotte, Glenn Nelson, Irene Patalan, Christine Stead and Susan Baskett.

Greenberg explained that the League of Women Voters is open to all citizens over the age of 18, male and female, and referred the public to the League website for membership information. She added that one purpose of the League is to assist voters in making informed choices at the polls, and as such, it holds forums such as this one.

Finally, Greenberg noted that the questions for Monday’s forum were selected by a committee of League members from suggestions sent in by the community, and introduced forum moderator Judy Mich.

Mich welcomed “viewers, voters, and candidates” and provided some information on how the forum would be conducted. She explained that  the League’s policy is to alternate the person who first responds to a new question, and then allow each of the other candidates to respond to the same question. For the opening and closing statements, candidates drew numbers to determine their speaking order.

Candidate responses are presented in the order in which they were given. For previous Chronicle coverage of the candidates, including more about their backgrounds, see: “Forum for Six AAPS Candidates“

Opening Statements

Moderator Judy Mich invited each candidate to give a one-minute opening statement, in an order chosen at random out of a hat before the meeting.

Opening: Albert Howard

Howard said he was speaking from the heart, and that he hopes to see parents, teachers and students united in their goals. He noted that the restaurant chain McDonald’s trains people as teens to be able to understand how to work there, and that AAPS should be able to train its students effectively. Howard summarized his campaign as advocating for “transparency, safety, and spirituality.”

Opening: Larry Murphy

Murphy noted that he and his wife moved from their cottage on Whitmore Lake to Ann Arbor for the schools, and that he believes the schools are at critical crossroads. Noting that AAPS has made cuts in the number of teachers, raised class sizes, and increased the number of split classes (classes that contain students of two grade levels), Murphy argued that the district has significant problems. He asserted that he is the candidate who is offering specific solutions, and pointed voters to his website to review his “fresh ideas that can be implemented.”

Opening: Patrick Leonard

Leonard thanked the LWV and CTN for hosting this forum, and introduced himself as a product of AAPS and the University of Michigan. He said he has two family members who currently work in the district, and that he has worked for AAPS Rec & Ed for three years. Leonard credited his volunteer work with district elementary schools as inspiring him to run for the school board, saying that he was surprised at how unprepared some students were for grade-level work. His focus, he said, would be the achievement gap, along with increasing transparency and improving communication.

Opening: Andy Thomas

Thomas began by saying that it’s been a “pleasure and a privilege to serve on the board,” and that he is running for re-election because the schools face dangerous and difficult times ahead. He said that he has fought to preserve programs that make AAPS extraordinary, and listed his priorities as: creating an environment where all students can learn and experience excellent teaching; providing multiple paths to success for different students; demonstrating financial stewardship; and ensuring the district has a robust curriculum to prepare children for a rapidly changing world.

Opening: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot began by noting that on Nov. 8, voters will have the opportunity to select two trustees and said that she wants to be their “number one.” She pointed out that she is also a product of the AAPS, and a parent in the district, and that she understands the community – both the appeal and the challenges. She urged voters to consider the values and experience of each candidate, as well as “what has influenced [their] experiences.” Saying that she is an “independent voice” on the current school board, Lightfoot noted that she had voted no on the superintendent salary increase, as well as on the 2011-12 budget. She closed by saying that, despite differences of opinion on some issues, she does greatly enjoy working with her fellow trustees and that she would like to continue to do so.

Opening: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal noted that he is also a product of Michigan public schools all the way through college at the UM, and that he currently lives in northeast Ann Arbor with his wife and two children. He said he wants to see better schools, and that kids should be given the best opportunities possible. Iqbal asserted that his financial experience separates him from his colleagues and gives him a unique perspective. He pointed out that the district’s budget of approximately $185 million is more than some municipalities and universities.

Bullying

Question: The state of Michigan has yet to enact an anti-bullying law. Tell us some of what the district has in place to prevent bullying and how these policies can be improved or more effectively enforced.

Bullying: Albert Howard

Howard gave an example of action the Huron High School principal had taken in response to Howard’s complaint that he witnessed coaches swearing at players at a Huron football game. The principal had assured Howard that there are rules in place that do not tolerate such behavior, and Howard was grateful for his response. Howard urged the public to continue to “put pressure on people who can make a difference.”

Bullying: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal said that bullying is a “sensitive subject these days,” noting the diversity of Ann Arbor. He asserted that administration needs to be assertive and firm and to have a policy in place that discourages any form of harassment, including name-calling and cyberbullying. Iqbal added that all rules regarding bullying need to be open and fair, and that all students should have the opportunity to gain the most from their classrooms.

Bullying: Patrick Leonard

Leonard said this was a subject he was passionate about, and that he had witnessed bullying in the schools firsthand five years ago as a student at Pioneer. He would like to develop a plan with stricter sanctions for bullies, and more educational resources for teachers to help them address bullying. He agreed that bullying in athletics is a “major issue,” and said he would like to look at ways to educate coaches and athletes. Noting that the cultural diversity of AAPS makes it one of the best districts, Leonard urged the district to work toward implementing anti-bullying policies.

Bullying: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot said that she had experienced bullying firsthand as a parent dealing with a situation with her daughter, and that it’s important to carefully define bullying. She noted that the board has policies on bullying, and has been open to revisiting those policies to “reflect current times.” She suggested that the district should weigh in on laws and regulations being crafted at the state level, and enlist students in finding solutions. Lightfoot also agreed that sanctions and trainings are important tools to address bullying.

Bullying: Larry Murphy

Murphy asserted that bullying is underrated by the population as a whole. He explained that he asks his own children every month or so, “Are you treating your fellow classmates with respect?” just to be sure they are not the cause of bullying. Saying he would support bullying laws being put on the books, Murphy acknowledged that implementing them could be difficult.

Bullying: Andy Thomas

Thomas said he would like to share two success stories and one challenge. First, he noted that many elementary schools hold diversity celebrations as part of ongoing bullying prevention, and argued that the awareness these celebrations bring carries over into older ages. Secondly, he mentioned that last year, he had the privilege of attending Huron’s challenge day, which he described as “a marvelous opportunity for students to come to grips with issues that had been dividing them.” As a challenge the district faces in this area, Thomas pointed out that a climate survey was conducted in the district a few years ago, but the data have not been used to do anything beyond make a report to the board.

Candidacy

Question: Most voters in the school district do not have children in the schools. How can you effectively represent them as well as the causes and constituencies that have made you seek election? What skills and strengths do you bring to the position?

Candidacy: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal said this was a good  and engaging question. Everyone in the community has a stake in its schools, he began, asserting that, “Education is a pillar and strong asset of a community.” As evidence of his skills and strengths, Iqbal noted that he has a background in environmental education consulting and finance, and is connected to many community organizations, such as Ann Arbor SPARK, the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Regional Chamber and other groups, which the district should engage to leverage their skills. As an example, Iqbal pointed out how AAPS can take classes in Hebrew through the Jewish Federation of Ann Arbor.

Candidacy: Patrick Leonard

Leonard said he has always had a collective vision, and realizes the importance of education even to those who do not have kids. He is the only one of the six candidates who is not an AAPS parent. He noted that board trustees are public servants, who serve everyone in Ann Arbor. Leonard argued that he has ties the community, and is actively involved in working with and engaging constituents.

Candidacy: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot noted that even people without students in AAPS are affected by the decisions the board makes, and pointed out that property values are key to the district’s funding. Community members, she said, have the opportunity to “weigh in with their expertise.” Lightfoot argued that her background in public policy helps her be an effective trustee, and noted that she also has military experience, which taught her to understand strategy, tactics, and goal-setting. Finally, she said that she has also had experience working in social justice – some things, she said, “impact all of us, whether we have children or not.”

Candidacy: Larry Murphy

In door-to-door canvassing, Murphy said, he has met a lot of people who say that their kids have already graduated. “And to them I say – you’re a taxpayer.” It’s not enough just to balance the books, Murphy argued. In his business, he said, he is very careful about only spending money where it is “value-added.”

Candidacy: Andy Thomas

Thomas argued that education of critical to the quality of life for people of all ages. He noted that his engagements with the community have included people of a wide variety of ages, incomes, and life experiences. Thomas said he has worked with Washtenaw Literacy, helped serve food through the Interfaith Hospitality Network, and formed the Karen Thomas Memorial Fund, a reading support program for elementary schools that engages community volunteers to work with students. This engagement with the community, and with people of all ages, Thomas argued, is necessary for the school board.

Candidacy: Albert Howard

Howard repeated his message of “transparency, safety, and spirituality.” He said he liked Iqbal’s mention of the Jewish connection, and noted that he speaks “the blessing” to his children almost every morning. Howard noted that Ann Arbor-Detroit is almost like one city, and the it’s the number one city in the nation for fatherless children. “We must instill into these children their purpose.” Howard said, “Once a child has the love of their family, nothing can stop them.”

Technology

Question: What is your evaluation of the technology level of the AAPS – plusses and shortcomings? There has been talk of a special technology millage to be put before the voters next year. As a board member, would you favor such a millage request and campaign for its passage?

Technology: Patrick Leonard

Leonard supports the tech bond. He said that everything in technology is changing, and that because of this, technology will be needed that cannot be predicted. Technology, Leonard argued, is becoming a vital component of the education system, and that in order for children to receive a stellar education, the district needs to be able to incorporate it. Other schools already have this, he said, and AAPS needs it for its students to remain competitive.

Technology: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot supports the tech bond. She noted the challenges, as a trustee, of being clear on the infrastructure needs of the district, as times move quicker than technology can be refreshed. At the same time, she said, board members still hear voters say they are tired of paying bonds and millages. She noted that she had benefited from great technology when she went through AAPS as a student herself, and asserted that now also “as a trustee, I know we need these things.” Still, she said, while supporting the bond, she “will also support the things the community contends we need.”

Technology: Larry Murphy

Murphy does not support the tech bond. If there were a bond to hire more teachers, Murphy said, he would support that. He questioned whether some of the improvements outlined in the technology plan are necessary, such as a four-year replacement cycle for computers, and “wiring all classrooms for audio.” He said he cannot support the bond as it’s currently been explained.

[Ed. note: Individual Michigan school districts are prohibited from soliciting dedicated funding for operational expenditures, such as teacher salaries, but are allowed to request voter funding of capital improvements, including technology improvements. Before the passage of Proposal A in 1994, individual districts were allowed to solicit funding directly for the general fund; now, any new general fund millages can only take place at the county level. AAPS is one of ten individual districts that make up the Washtenaw Intermediate School District.]

Technology: Andy Thomas

Thomas supports the tech bond. He noted that Murphy raised a reasonable question when he asked why the district is planning for laptops and other computers to have an expected life of only four years, but noted that “if you have been in a classroom and seen the way they’re used – they get a lot of wear and tear.” Thomas also pointed out that AAPS has “issues with extending the warranty,” and argued that four years is a good lifespan. Computers, he argued, offer an opportunity to better leverage the teachers the district already has by offering online classes.

Technology: Albert Howard

Howard supports the tech bond, “as long as this technology supports the child’s language.” He argued that technology can’t be something that intimidates children, but should “bring them peace.” He said he’s all for giving a teen a tangible assignment on a laptop, but that he does not want the district to get caught up in the competitiveness of technology.

Technology: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal does not support the tech bond, except as a last resort. He began by saying, “We all support technology,” and then listed three issues he sees with the tech bond as it’s currently laid out. First, Iqbal questioned how any technology, or any expenditure, impacts children’s ability to learn, and said the district needed to look into this more. He pointed out that the current technology plan is significantly shorter (in number of pages) than the previous technology plan, even though it earmarks a larger amount of money.

Secondly, Iqbal argued, “The issue of the tech bond is a larger, managing issue.” He likened the tech bond to a way of capitalizing operating expenses like books and paving parking lots that the district would otherwise pay for out of its general fund, and said that the tech bond would capitalize expenses until 2025 for “things that may not last that long.” Thirdly, Iqbal argued that there is a “tipping point on how much the community wants to pay.”

[Ed. Note: The tech bond, if approved by voters, would issue bonds in three series, beginning in 2012, 2015, and 2019. In each case, the expected life of the technology products to be purchased would be longer than the length of time it will take to pay off that series of bonds, which is also a legal requirement. See The Chronicle's coverage of the technology bond being considered for more details: "AAPS To Float February Tech Millage" ]

Transportation

Question: Changes in school bus service, particularly routes and placement of stops, has been a big issue this fall. Are you supportive of these budget-cutting decisions? Will it really create a net savings of $1 million? Can you suggest other resolution?

Transportation: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot said that AAPS does not know yet whether outsourcing transportation to the Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) has saved the district money, but that the board will hear from WISD soon. Unfortunately, she said, the district has “had to move ahead and add more responsibility onto the WISD” in the meantime. Lightfoot argued that the district needs to enlist “the experts,” who she defined as parents and students, who know the neighborhoods the best. She said AAPS needs to make changes in transportation, but to do so will need to do a much better job of listening to parents.

Transportation: Larry Murphy

Murphy said he agreed with Lightfoot that transportation needs to be reworked, and that the district has to do a better job than before. He suggested using neighborhood busing, where one bus picks up all students, K-12, from the same neighborhood. Arguing that neighborhood busing is a “promising idea” that would “save a ton of money on fuel,” Murphy acknowledged that the downside is having twelfth graders and kindergartners on the same bus. Still, he said, that issue could be mitigated by using assigned seating, and would still be better than students walking in dark, icy conditions. Murphy said he has a meeting scheduled with the Dexter administrator responsible for organizing neighborhood busing in that community.

Transportation: Andy Thomas

Thomas said that on a policy level, the board did what it needed to do. He pointed out that the business of the district is to educate, not to provide transportation, and that busing is not mentioned anywhere in the strategic plan. With that said, Thomas acknowledged that the implementation of the new busing system had been difficult, and that the district had a lot of problems with the WISD, including not answering the phones and not accurately measuring distances. He said the AAPS administration is working with the WISD to address the issues.

Transportation: Albert Howard

Howard said that Thomas’ response to this question bothered him, and that the safety of children comes before the budget. “Without the children,” Howard argued, “there would be no buses.” Saying this is a sensitivity issue, Howard said the district needs to step outside the box and do what might be unusual. He argued that the outsourcing of transportation has meant that there are children who are now not going to school.

Transportation: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal argued that safety is the number one priority, and that AAPS does not need parents with anxiety about their children crossing busy roads or walking without sidewalks. He questioned how this problem came about, and said that parents demand accountability. “How did we cut this out of our budget?” he asked. He argued that AAPS total budget increased by $2 million from last year to this year, from $183 million to $185 million and that even with this increase, transportation was still cut.

[Ed. Note: In a phone call with The Chronicle, AAPS deputy superintendent of operations Robert Allen confirmed that the total 2010-11 AAPS budget was $185.3 million and the total 2011-12 AAPS budget was $183.62 million, a decrease of $1.68 million.]

Transportation: Patrick Leonard

Leonard said that there was poor decision making on the board’s part, and a lack of community engagement regarding busing. He asserted that parents at Arrowwood Hills, Foxfire, and Carrot Way wanted answers, “and we were not there.” Leonard pointed out that Dexter is a much smaller school district and argued that a one-tier system of busing all students together (as suggested by Murphy) would be difficult to implement in AAPS. Instead, Leonard advocated for bringing back neighborhood stops as the district has offered in the past. “We need to expand” he said, “and not function myopically.”

Partnerships

Question: Alliances are encouraged between the system and/or individual schools with other non-profits as well as with for-profit corporations. With what AAPS partnerships are you familiar and what do they bring to our students, teachers, and schools?

Partnerships: Larry Murphy

Murphy said he is familiar with the Mitchell-Scarlett partnership with UM. He asserted that another partnership opportunity is with parents, and pointed out that he just added a parental involvement section to his website. “We need to find a way to encourage more parental involvement to pick up the slack,” he said, and to encourage the AAPS administration to accept help from parents.

Partnerships: Andy Thomas

Without a doubt, Thomas said, the greatest resource we have in the Ann Arbor community is UM, and that until a couple of years ago, AAPS was not using that resource effectively. Now, he said, AAPS has Spanish language program at all the elementary schools, and the partnership at Mitchell and Scarlett to address the achievement gap. He also said that the district is looking to Google in terms of possible tech partnerships. Finally, Thomas argued that the district must not overlook the partnership it has with the Ann Arbor Public Schools Educational Foundation, saying, “We need to encourage people to make up some losses.”

Partnerships: Albert Howard

Howard repeated, “Transparency, safety, spirituality,” and stated, “The body of Christ is the answer to a lot of the problems the school is facing.” He pledged his support to help those who need it, saying his congregation would do anything it could do to help. Using the example of how the United Arab Emirates donated money to the public schools in Joplin, Missouri after a tornado devastated the high school, Howard said that AAPS should not be afraid to reach out to the “big three” [automakers], or to UM.

Partnerships: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal asserted that collaboration is an important way forward. He suggested that AAPS should explore partnering with the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority to solve its transportation problems. He also suggested that language-teaching partnerships should be expanded to other local organizations, similar to the partnership with the Jewish Federation of Ann Arbor, which allows students to study Hebrew for high school credit. Iqbal asked how the district can better partner with UM. He suggested that AAPS leverage UM’s input to bring down the cost of creating wireless networks across the district. Lastly, he noted that the Rotary Club, of which he is a member, has worked with Ann Arbor Tech (formerly Stone school).

Partnerships: Patrick Leonard

Leonard noted that partnerships can be used to generate revenue. But he also said partnerships can bring curriculum to the district, such as the Spanish language program in place at the district elementary schools, and the teaching and learning collaboration at Mitchell and Scarlett. Teachers, Leonard said, believe that the collaboration with UM will improve MEAP scores. He suggested that AAPS can create more discourse between districts, and even create interactions nationally. The main question to ask, he argued, is: “How can we embrace collaborating to improve student learning?”

Partnerships: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot noted AAPS partnerships with the UM depression center, the Neutral Zone, and the health community in Ann Arbor. She argued that AAPS is “rich with opportunities,” and has more than one institution nearby. Lightfoot argued that AAPS needs to do a better job at leveraging its brand and its expertise. Saying the district has some outstanding teachers who have done some outstanding things, Lightfoot said she would like to increase peer-to-peer teaching and alliances regarding achievement. “We have a lot to do about achievement,” she asserted.

Closing Statements

Each candidate was invited to give a one-minute closing statement, in an order chosen at random out of a hat before the meeting.

Closing Statement: Patrick Leonard

Leonard thanked the League, and then said he wanted to close by talking about the achievement gap – “That’s why I’m running,” he said.

He noted that the overall graduation rate of AAPS students is 90%. But disaggregate groups such as African-Americans, Latinos, and economically disadvantaged students have much lower graduation rates. “We are only as good as our collective body of students,” Leonard said, “not a select group.”

He encouraged voters to visit his website, and attend his open chats at Amer’s on Church street every Monday from 4-5 p.m.

Closing Statement: Larry Murphy

Murphy noted that his motto is “More teachers, less overhead.” Nothing is more fundamental, he said, than to create reasonably-sized classes where teachers can teach. Describing his candidacy as “pushback for [enacting] the teacher cuts,” Murphy said the district is digging itself into a hole, “one shovelful at a time.”

“My campaign,” he said, “is not just about the children – it’s about the children and the teachers.” He asked everyone for their votes, and closed by saying he is a logical choice because what the district needs and what he has are one in the same.

Closing Statement: Ahmar Iqbal

Iqbal said that what is at stake in this election is the AAPS brand, which has worldwide recognition. The number one challenge, he asserted, is to manage the budget, which he noted, is larger than some municipalities or universities.

He closed with a series of questions – How do we address issues of equity, if teachers are willing to stay after school, but there is no bus to take kids home? How do we have a longer school year? How can we have foreign language from day one? How can we hire more teachers?

“Everything should be on the table,” he said, asserting that if the district can find local sponsors for computers, sports, etc., it needs to “think outside the box.”

Closing Statement: Andy Thomas

Thomas thanked the LWV, and said he wanted to close by sharing some personal information about himself.

He said he’s lived in Ann Arbor for nearly 40 years, has a son in the AAPS, and is a retired health care administrator. Thomas added that he is also a widower, and has started a fund in his wife’s name to increase literacy, the Karen Thomas Memorial Fund. Thomas noted that he has a long history of working in the community, and that with him, “What you see is what you get.”

He asserted that he is an independent thinker who will listen to multiple points of view, and who believes in data-driven decision-making. As a parent and community member, Thomas said, he does hold certain fundamental values – that children deserve the best education the community can provide, that all children achieve up to their potential, and that students are prepared for a challenging and uncertain future.

As a sitting board member, he said, he is proud of his record and is running on it. He pointed out that he voted against the superintendent salary increase, but strongly supported Patricia Green as the new superintendent; voted in favor of three collective bargaining agreements that saved the district a total of $5 million; supported the special education millage; successfully argued against principal-sharing in the elementary schools; and opposed the elimination of high school busing.

Closing Statement: Albert Howard

Howard again began with, “Transparency, safety, and spirituality.” Saying he wanted to speak to the households, he asserted that they have a purpose, but must realize that God is their only source. He then told students they needed to find their place and ask their parents for help finding their purpose.

He blessed their households, and said he cares for them. “I want you to be my son, my daughter,” he said. “If Jesus is not in your life, I ask you to let him into your life.” He noted that he “came up in this district” and attended Perry Elementary, Clague Middle School, and Huron High School. Saying he was speaking as a father, wanting students to succeed, Howard offered, “Let me know if there is anything I can do to help you.”

He then thanked everyone, and wished them a nice evening.

Closing Statements: Simone Lightfoot

Lightfoot noted that she supported extending school hours, holding year-round school, and changing start times. Since being appointed in 2009, and elected in 2010, she said, she has tried to be a voice of reason on the board.

She noted that she is committed to having uncomfortable conversations as necessary, and recognizes that the district does not have the luxury of having one issue. “We have a myriad of issues,” she said, and the board “needs someone who can handle multiple people vying for multiple issues.”

Lightfoot pointed out that she has extracted a commitment from the district to create an achievement gap elimination plan, and been instrumental in having automatic algebra enrollment for 8th graders. She said the district needs leadership who can handle the planned and the unexpected; needs bonds and millages while also needing to look beyond those funding sources; needs to be transparent; and needs to bring the community together.

Coda

Moderator Judy Mich noted that there were some topics that the League had run out of time to include, including: the candidates’ relationships with the new superintendent; the new International Baccalaureate program being run by the WISD; how the district is addressing the achievement gap; and schools of choice. “Perhaps if we leave these topics to you, you will take care of them,” she said.

Greenberg thanked the candidates for participating, and CTN for making the debate possible. She noted that the debate would be re-broadcast on Channel 19, and that viewers could contact CTN for the schedule. She closed by encouraging all Ann Arbor citizens to vote, and reminding everyone that all voters are not required to have valid photo identification at the polls.

Next candidate forum: The AAPS PTO Council has invited the six candidates to each make a brief statement at its Launch Party on Mon. Oct. 10 at Slauson Middle School from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Candidate Photos

Albert Howard

Ahmar Iqbal

Patrick Leonard

Simone Lightfoot

Larry Murphy

Andy Thomas

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