CORAS: The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville, Ohio

September 10, 2009

Members Present: Lori Snyder-Lowe, Jerry Johnson, David Branch, Bill Brelsford, Dale Dickson, Barb Hansen, Mark Miller, Aimee Howley, Jack Payton, Charles Bizzari, Larry Burgess, Dick Murray, Phil Satterfield, Charles Shreve, Jim Drexler, Dick Fisher, Lori Spencer, Greg Foley, John Simmons and guest Shane Shook. Middleton, Gut, Frazier and Ciraso were unable to attend.

CORAS President Bill Brelsford opened the meeting at 9:40 a.m. with remarks, introductions, announcements and agenda revisions.

Fisher reviewed the financial report for 2008-09. Snyder-Lowe and Bizzari seconded to approve the financial report and the $137,695.41 appropriations for 2009-10. PASSED

A committee that included Bill Brelsford, David Branch, Dick Murray and Mark Miller discussed the selection process, and their recommendation, for a new executive director. The committee recommended Dennis Meade, retired superintendent Minford Local, CORAS past-president and 19-year member of the CORAS Board of Directors, be employed as executive director of CORAS with a six-month contract January 1, 2010 – June 30, 2010, and an additional one year contract July 1, 2010 – June 30, 2011. Bizzari moved and Hansen seconded the recommendation. PASSED

Satterfield moved and Drexler seconded to employ Dick Fisher as executive director for the 6-month period of July 1, 2009– December 31, 2009. PASSED

Snyder-Lowe moved and Miller seconded to approve a $2,500, plus the employer’s share of retirement, Medicare and workers compensation for a total of approximately $2,900 supplemental payment for 2009-10 to secretary/financial officer Lori Spencer. PASSED

Hansen moved and Dickson seconded to employ Larry Burgess as CORAS associate director for the period July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010 with compensation at $6000 for the year, plus the employer’s share of retirement, Medicare and workers compensation for a total of approximately $7,000. PASSED

Branch moved and Murray seconded to increase the registration fee for CORAS meetings to $20. PASSED

Snyder-Lowe moved and Miller seconded to increase the annual membership dues from $300 to $325 beginning with the 2010-2011 school year and to re-evaluate the increase at the September 2010 annual board meeting to confirm that the increase is sufficient to meet CORAS operation expenses. PASSED

Snyder-Lowe moved and Murray seconded to appoint Dr. John Henning, Chair, Teacher Education, as Ex-officio member of the CORAS Board of Directors for a three-year term, July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2012. PASSED

Hansen moved and Miller seconded to grant Federal Hocking Local School District a third and final fiscal emergency membership fee waiver, in accordance with the CORAS Constitution and By-Laws, for the 2009-10 school year. PASSED

Drexler moved and Bizzari seconded to approve a Resolution of Support for the Ohio University College of Education NCATE process. PASSED

Bizzari moved and Miller seconded to approve the CORAS Constitution and By-Laws language changes to include the three newly designated Ohio Appalachian counties (Ashtabula, Mahoning and Trumbull). PASSED

Dick Fisher, Dick Murray and David Branch discussed developing strategies to expand the CORAS region to include the three newly named Ohio Appalachian counties, Ashtabula, Mahoning and Trumbull. The three had met with representatives of Youngstown State University on April 23, 2009 to explore expansion possibilities. Some tentative plans were developed to provide four CORAS programs for superintendents in the three-county region, providing Youngstown State would provide $7,000. Battelle for Kids developed the program. The proposal was submitted to Youngstown State in August. To date, Youngstown State has not responded. President Brelsford appointed a committee to strategize and explore future options relative to this issue. The committee includes: Dick Murray, Chuck Bizzari, Bill Brelsford, Mark Miller, Dave Branch, Phil Satterfield, Dale Dickson and Dick Fisher.

Fisher announced that Ohio University College of Education has agreed to grant one (1) quarter hour graduate credit, tuition fee, to administrators and employees of CORAS member schools who attend the four designated CORAS programs. However, there will be a one-time $85.00 Ohio University fee, plus a $20.00 CORAS registration fee for each session. The latter fee is to cover the cost of materials, continental breakfast and buffet lunch.

Attendance at four sessions (September 15, 2009; October 20, 2009, January 26, 2010 and April 27, 2010) is required to receive the one (1) quarter hour of graduate credit from Ohio University. Those seeking graduate credit must submit payment of $165.00 prior to September 15, 2009. The locations for the 2009-10 CORAS programs are:

• September 15, 2009- Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan
• October 20, 2009- Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan
• January 26, 2010- Ramada Inn, Zanesville
• March 16, 2010 Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan
• June 8, 2010- EagleSticks golf Club and Inn, Zanesville (Annual Golf Outing)

Burgess reported on the CORAS/COE research project under the direction of Dr. Diane Gut. He handed out a description of project, list of teachers involved and invitation for teachers to join in the research. He requested help in encouraging mentor teachers and interns to be part of the research project.

Murray reported on a meeting he and Fisher attended with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Deborah Delisle on September 9, 2009 discussing the implementation of HB 1. The discussion centered around: (1) How can CORAS contribute to help ODE? and (2) What does the CORAS region need from ODE? CORAS Board members were requested to complete a form responding to the questions, “ What are the needs of the CORAS member school districts?” and “What can your organization/members do to assist ODE in the roll-out of HB1?” Return responses to Fisher ASAP.

Fisher announced the Battelle for Kids/CORAS project, “A Framework for Dramatically Improving Education in Appalachian Ohio,” introduction/discussion meeting would be held later in the day. Seventy people have expressed interest in the project.

Fisher announced that to date CORAS had 106 membership renewals and new members for the 2009-10 school year. He also distributed a list of the superintendent changes in the region since September 2008.

Fisher distributed copies of the CORAS “Quarterly Report” for October 2008, January, April and July 2009 describing CORAS activities during the school year. He also announced that average registration/attendance at CORAS programs in 2008-09 was slightly more than 72 people.

Payton moved and Snyder-Lowe seconded to adjourn the meeting at 12:07 p.m. PASSED

The next board of directors meeting is tentatively set for October 20, 2009 following the CORAS membership meeting at the Olde Dutch Restaurant in Logan.

NEXT CORAS BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

The CORAS Board of Directors will meet on January 26, 2010 following the membership meeting at the Ramada Inn, Zanesville

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS PARTICIPATED IN SCHOOL FUNDING AND EDUCATION REFORM DISCUSSIONS WITH GOVERNOR AND EDUCATION POLICY ADVISOR

(LtoR) John Stanford, Executive Assistant for Policy Education; Richard Murray, CORAS President; Governor Ted Strickland; and Dick Fisher CORAS Executive Director

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

OhioUniversity Inn, Athens

April 28, 2009

CORAS President David Branch called the meeting to order at 1:00 PM. The following members of the CORAS Board of Directors were present: Charles Bizzari, David Branch, Dale Dickson, James Drexler, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Charles Shreve, Renee Middleton, Mark Miller, Dick Murray, Jack Payton, Phil Satterfield, John Simmons, Dianne Gut, Barbara Hansen, and Aimee Howley. CORAS Executive Director Dick Fisher was also in attendance. Jo Ann Dugan, Greg Foley, Patricia Ciraso and Jim Frazier were unable to attend. Election results for Regions 1,2,4 and 6 were announced. (Region directors elected to a three-year term July 1, 2009 to June 30, 2012).

• Region 1 - Jim Frazier
• Region 2 - Charles Shreve (beginning immediately and ending June 30, 2011)
• Region 4 - Dale Dickson
• Region 6 - Dick Murray

Snyder-Lowe moved and Bizzari seconded to approve the following appointments to the Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2009 and ending June 30, 2012. PASSED

• Region 1 – Phil Satterfield
• Region 4 - Lori Snyder-Lowe
• Region 6 - David Branch
• Ex-Officio - Barbara Hansen 
• Ex-Officio - Aimee Howley

Dean Middleton named Greg Foley, Jerry Johnson and herself as the College of Education appointments to the Board of Directors for 2009-10.

Murray moved and Satterfield seconded to confirm William Brelsford, Superintendent, Caldwell Exempted Village Schools District as the 2009-10 President of the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools. PASSED

Bizzari moved and Murray seconded to name Mark Miller, Superintendent, Buckeye Local School District, Jefferson County, 2009-10 President-elect of the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools. PASSED

Branch, Murray and Fisher reported on the April 23, 2009 visit with Dean Philip Ginnetti, Youngstown State University, regarding expanding membership and service to newly named Appalachian counties, Ashtabula, Mahoning and Trumbull. It was agreed to continue the dialogue among school districts in the three new Appalachian counties, Youngstown State University, Ohio University and the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools.

Payton moved and Snyder-Lowe seconded to approve the CORAS/College of Education 2009-10 Partnership Agreement. Provisions of the agreement remain the same as last year. PASSED

Bizzari moved and Snyder-Lowe seconded to approve the following resolution endorsing the Governor’s Education and School Reform Plan. PASSED

RESOLUTION

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) commends Governor Strickland and the Ohio House of Representatives for leading an effort to achieve a “thorough and efficient” school finance system in Ohio.

WHEREAS, CORAS believes the education reform elements of Governor Strickland’s plan are sound, comprehensive, systemic and, when fully implemented would provide Ohio school children with quality learning experiences, and 

WHEREAS, given the current economic conditions in Ohio, CORAS believes the Ohio House of Representatives modifications to the Governor Strickland’s school funding reform plan will maintain schools over the next two years, and when fully funded, along with inflationary and necessary cost adjustments as determined by the School Funding Research Advisory Council, will provide adequate resources to implement the education reform elements, and

WHEREAS, CORAS believes there is a commitment by Governor Strickland and members of the current Ohio House of Representatives to provide sufficient state funding to school districts at the time the various elements of the plan are required to be implemented; and be it therefore

RESOLVED that the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools endorses the Ohio education and school funding reform plan proposed by Governor Strickland, including the modifications by the Ohio House of Representatives.

President Branch adjourned the meeting at 1:25 p.m.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan, Ohio

February 24, 2009

The following members of the board of directors were present: Satterfield, Simmons, Payton, Dickson, Snyder-Lowe, Brelsford, Bizzari, Murray, Branch, Miller, Middleton, Foley and Gut. Others in attendance were: Fisher, Burgess, Cote, McDermott and Washburn. Those board members unable to attend were: Frazier, Meade, Ciraso, Drexler, Dugan, Howley and Hansen.

CORAS President Branch called the meeting to order at 1:23 PM.

Dr. Gut provided an update report on the CORAS/COE research project. Brelsford moved and Murray seconded to approve the report. PASSED

Fisher presented the mid-year financial report. Receipts for the period July 1 through December 31, 2008 were $46,270.00. Expenditures were $28,901.86. Snyder-Lowe moved and Foley seconded to approve the financial report. PASSED

President Branch led a discussion on the Governor’s education reform and school funding plan.

President Branch reported on the work the CORAS “Third Decade Committee.” Payton moved and Dickson seconded to approve the CORAS focus for the third decade, 2008-2018, to be school funding, research and learning; and to establish a “Leaders in Learning Awards” to be given annually, with the CORAS President appointing a selection committee in September of each school year. PASSED

Fisher reported on the April 2009 board of directors elections in Region 1 –Frazier, elected and Satterfield, appointed; Region 4 – Dickson, elected and Snyder-Lowe, appointed; Region 6- Murray, elected and Branch, appointed; Region 2 – Meade (retired), elected (term expiring 2011); and ex-officio members Howley, appointed and Hansen, appointed.

Fisher reported that 2008-09 CORAS had 132 members to date. Sixteen of the 29 counties had 100 percent membership in the coalition.

Snyder-Lowe moved and Foley seconded to hold the CORAS summer-fall board of directors planning meeting on Thursday, September 10, 2009 at EagleSticks Golf Club & Inn, Zanesville. PASSED

Dr. Middleton led a discussion on teacher education for the 21st century and global society.

Al Cote distributed materials and discussed the STEM initiative. The state awarded STEM funding to three school districts in the Appalachian region, Morgan Local, New Boston Local and Newcomerstown Exempted Village.

The agenda for the March 31, 2009 board of directors meeting with State Superintendent of Public Instruction Deborah Delisle was presented to members of the board of directors. Don Washburn, Ohio Department of Education consultant participated in the discussion.

Snyder-Lowe moved and Foley seconded to adjourn the meeting at 3:08 pm. PASSED

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville

September 4, 2008

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Board of Directors met on at 9:30 a.m. on September 4, 2008 at EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville. The following board members were in attendance: David Branch, Phil Satterfield, Dale Dickson, Aimee Howley, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Jack Payton, John Simmons, Dennis Meade, Greg Foley, Mark Miller, Jim Drexler, Dick Murray, Barb Hansen, Pat Ciraso, and JoAnn Dugan. CORAS staff members present included: Dick Fisher, Lori Spencer and Larry Burgess. Others present included: Cindy Hartman, Dale Edwards, Max Evans and Dianne Gut. Board members unable to attend were: Renee Middleton, Bill Brelsford, Charles Bizarri and Jim Frazier.

1. Opening remarks, introductions, announcements and agenda revisions were presented and discussed by David Branch, CORAS President

2. The 2007-08 CORAS Financial Report and the 2008-09 Budget were presented and discussed by the Executive Director. Lori Snyder-Lowe moved and Jim Drexler seconded a motion to approve the FY 09 budget as corrected. PASSED

3. Phil Satterfield moved and Dennis Meade seconded the motion to approve a $2500 supplemental payment for the 2008-09 school year to Secretary/Financial Officer Lori Spencer. PASSED

4. Lori Snyder-Lowe moved and Greg Foley seconded to approve the job description, job title of Associate Director and to employ Larry Burgess for the 2008-09 school year at $6,000 per contract year, plus employer share of STRS and Medicare. PASSED

5. Richard Murray moved and Barb Hansen seconded to re-employ Dick Fisher as Executive Director for the 2008-09 school year for a contract salary of $40,000 plus a one- time $5,000 bonus and a one-time 3% increase ($1,350) on the total. PASSED

6. Dale Dickson moved and John Simmons seconded the motion to appoint Dr. Dianne Gut as ex-officio member to the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Board of Directors for the three-year period July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2011. PASSED 

7. Richard Murray moved and Barb Hansen seconded a motion to approve membership waiver for Federal Hocking Local Schools under the fiscal emergency provision of the CORAS by-laws. PASSED

8. Greg Foley moved and Jim Drexler seconded to approve the establishment of a “CORAS Third Decade Planning Committee” with members appointed by CORAS President David Branch. The appointed planning committee members are: David Branch, Bill Brelsford, Richard Murray, Renee Middleton and Dick Fisher. Other board members were also invited to volunteer for the planning committee. PASSED

9. 2008-09 membership programs, graduate credit, dates and locations were presented by Dick Fisher. Larry Burgess discussed receiving credit for the series of four professional development workshops being conducted by Battelle for Kids. Larry Burgess and Cindy Hartman, David Branch, Dick Fisher and Aimee Howley were appointed to a committee to select Hick’s Executive-in-Residence honorees for the 2010 and 2011.

10. The 2007-08 Annual Report was given by the Executive Director. Larry Burgess and Aimee Howley gave a report on the CORAS/COE “Superintendent-Board Communications in Rural Districts” research project.

11. 2008-09 CORAS Membership Drive report showed membership as of September 3, 2008 at 99. Membership renewals are running slightly ahead of 2007-08.

12. Workshops for the region’s school superintendents, to be conducted by College of Education, were discussed by Ohio University instructor Cindy Hartman. She distributed a survey for members of the board of directors to complete and return. Ms. Hartman reported that the College of Education now has 5 full-time faculty members in Education Administration, 4 of them are former superintendents and 1 is a former school administrator.

13. Ohio Coalition for Equity & Adequacy of School Funding update was presented by Dennis Meade. As of August 8, 2008, the E&A Coalition had 148 paid memberships. This compares to 168 this same time last year.

14. Phil Satterfield reported on the collaboration among the 12 State Education Organizations. The organizations expressed intent to communicate to the governor regarding education funding, but could not agree on how or when.

15. Dr. Dianne Gut presented a report on the CORAS/COE research project to begin this year. Dr. Gut will provide an updated report to CORAS by the end of January 2009.

16. Dale Edwards, 2008-09 BASA President, presented an overview of BASA activities for 2008-09.

17. Max Evans presented an Ohio Public School Dialogue (OPSD) update.

CORAS President David Branch adjourned the meeting at 12:05 p.m.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

Ohio University Inn, Athens

April 29, 2008

CORAS President Dick Murray called the meeting to order at 12:45 PM. The following members of the CORAS Board of Directors were present: JoAnn Dugan, Jim Drexler, Dennis Meade, Patricia Ciraso, Greg Foley, John Simmons, Aimee Howley, Renee Middleton, Dale Edwards, David Branch, William Brelford, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Dale Dickson, Chuck Bizzari and Dick Murray. CORAS Executive Director Dick Fisher was also in attendance.

Fisher announced the election results for Region 2 and 7 directors for the three-year term July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2011. Those elected were:

• Region 2 - Dennis Meade, Minford Local (Scioto)
• Region 7 - Mark Miller, Buckeye Local (Jefferson)

Bizzari moved and Edwards seconded to appoint the following to the Board of Directors for a 3-year term beginning July 1, 2008 and ending June 30, 2011.

• Region 2 - Patricia Ciraso, Washington-Nile Local (Scioto) 
• Region 7 - Jim Drexler, Harrison Hills City (Harrison) PASSED

The Dean of the Ohio University College of Education Appointed the following to the Board of Directors for 2008-09.

• Jo Ann Dugan
• Greg Foley
• Renee Middleton

4. Ciraso moved and Drexler seconded to elected William Brelsford, CORAS President-elect and confirm David Branch as CORAS President effective July 1, 2008 and ending June 30, 2009.  PASSED 

5. Snyder-Lowe moved and Brelsford seconded to approve the CORAS/College of Education 2008-09 Partnership Agreement. PASSED

6. Middleton moved and Branch seconded to accept the recommendation submitted by the Executive Director for conducting joint research with Ohio University College of Education for 2008-09; exploring potential funding for value-added research projects with Battelle for Kids; and appoint an ad hoc CORAS Research Review Committee to include Dale Dickson, Phil Satterfield, Greg Foley, David Branch, and Dick Murray (chair), with duties defined in the recommendation. The Dean of the College of Education and CORAS Executive Director are ex-officio members of the committee. PASSED

7. Dickson moved and Bizzari second to adjourn the meeting (1:20 PM).

CORAS Board of Directors Meeting Review

March 4, 2008

Ramada Inn, Zanesville 

CORAS President-elect David Branch called the meeting to order at 1:08 p.m. Board members present included: Tom Wolfe, Phil Satterfield, David Branch, Aimee Howley, Greg Foley, Jim Drexler, Dennis Meade, Barbara Hansen, Dale Edwards and Lori Snyder Lowe. Others present included: Executive Director Dick Fisher.

CORAS President-elect David Branch called the meeting to order at 1:08 p.m. .

Executive Director Fisher presented the proposed CORAS/COE Research Guidelines for discussion and consideration. 

During the discussion the word “and” was added to the last sentence of item number three between the words “Directors” and “Executive.” Clarification was give to item number two that this guideline did not prohibit the CORAS/COE Leadership & Research Committee from meeting more often. Additional clarification was provided that the written report in item number four could be the same as the report to the CORAS Board of Directors in item number five, with the report in the latter having the option of being given orally.

Lori Snyder-Lowe moved and Tom Wolfe seconded to approve the CORAS/COE Research Guidelines. PASSED (See Leadership & Research Committee)

CORAS President-elect Branch adjourned the meeting at 1:30 p.m.

CORAS Board of Directors Meeting Review

February 20, 2008

McCracken Hall, Ohio University

CORAS President Dick Murray called the meeting to order at 10:20 a.m. Board members present included: Dick Murray, Renee Middleton, Tom Wolfe, Phil Satterfield, Joann Dugan, Dale Dickson, David Branch, Aimee Howley and Greg Foley. Members of the CORAS/COE Leadership & Research Committee present were: Paul Mock, Max Evans and Jerry Vinci. Murray, Dickson, Satterfield, Howley and Middleton also serve on the Leadership & Research Committee. Others present included: Executive Director Dick Fisher.

The meeting opened with remarks by CORAS President Dick Murray concerning the Governor’s initiatives, pre-K-12 education in the future and school funding.

Executive Director Fisher presented a brief review of the two CORAS/COE research projects conducted between 2000 and 2008. Dr. Howley provided additional information about the research, pointing out that both research projects have received national attention through publications and presentations.

Fisher presented the proposed CORAS/COE Research Guidelines for discussion and consideration. The consensus was for the CORAS Board of Directors to consider the research guidelines at its March 4, 2008 meeting in Zanesville. (A copy is attached)

Dr. Foley asked about the possibility of using the CORAS/COE Leadership & Research Committee as a sounding board by College of Education researchers. It was agreed that this could be done.

“What research questions should be considered during the “Third Decade?” and “Who should do the research?” were the main items of discussion by the Board and Research Committee.

Three proposals discussed were: (1) Battelle for Kids presented a written proposal focusing on classroom outcomes using value-added data. (2) Dr. Evans proposed a study of Education Equity focusing on rural Appalachian schools and school children. (A copy is attached) (3) Dr. Middleton proposed a 3-way effort including the Ohio University College of Education, the Voinovich Center and the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools that could possibly encompass the two previous proposals and other ideas discussed by those present.

The consensus of the Board of Directors was to have Dr. Middleton develop a written proposal, as soon as possible, for distribution to the members of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors will then consider the three proposals (the Ohio University proposal, Dr. Evans proposal and the Battelle for Kids proposal) at its April 29, 2008 meeting at the Ohio University Inn, Athens.

The Board of Directors agreed to have further discussion concerning the broadening of CORAS partnerships to other institutions of higher learning in the Ohio Appalachian region at the March 4, 2008 meeting in Zanesville.

CORAS President Murray adjourned the meeting at 1:00 p.m.

CORAS Board of Directors Meeting Review

January 29, 2008

Olde Dutch Restaurant

Logan, Ohio

CORAS President Dick Murray called the meeting to order at 1:30 p.m. Board members present included: Dick Murray, Tom Wolfe, Barbara Hansen, John Simmons, Dale Edwards, Dennis Meade, Lori Snyder-Lowe, James Drexler, Patricia Ciraso, Phil Satterfield, JoAnn Dugan, Jack Payton, Dale Dickson, David Branch, Aimee Howley and Chuck Bizzari. Others present included: Executive Director Dick Fisher. Board members Bill Brelsford, Greg Foley, Renee Middleton and Jim Frazier were unable to attend.

BUSINESS & INFORMATION AGENDA

Fisher reviewed the July 1, 2007 through December 31, 2007 financial report.

• Receipts………….$39,721.33
• Expenditures……..$23,298.81

Dickson moved and Bizzari seconded to approve the financial report. PASSED

• The 2008 Board members up for election or appointment were announced. They are: Region 2 - Dennis Meade (elected) and Patricia Ciraso (appointed) Region 7 - Dale Edwards (elected) and Jim Drexler (appointed).
 
• Membership Report: CORAS has 131 active members as of January 29, 2008.
• The Executive Director requested nominations for the annual CORAS Leadership and Service Recognitions. Dale Edwards, BASA President-elect, was submitted.
• CORAS programs for March 4, 2008, April 29, 2008 and June 10, 2008 were announced.
• The Board of Directors summer/fall planning meeting will be held on Thursday,  September 4, 2008 at EagleStick Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville.
• Satterfield moved and Bizzari seconded to approve the following Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools policy for releasing lists of names and addresses. PASSED

POLICY FOR RELEASING LISTS OF NAMES AND ADDRESSES THE COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS IS COMPOSED OF SCHOOL DISTRICTS, INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING AND OTHER EDUCATION AGENCIES:

Therefore, the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools will, upon request, release only a list of names and addresses of member school districts, institutions of higher learning and other members.

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools will not release a list of names and addresses of Superintendents, Deans, and/or other heads of member agencies to external organizations or individuals.

 

BRIEF REPORTS AND UPDATES

• CORAS President Murray reported on the COE Dean/CORAS Superintendent  Communications and Connections, “Realigning our professional learning system with the needs of schools/student in Ohio and beyond.”
 
• Murray reported on the status of the “Getting It Right” Constitutional Amendment.
• Fisher and Murray discussed the “The Third Decade” (2008-09 will mark the beginning of the third decade for the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools/Ohio University College of Education partnership.)

First, the discussion focused on exploring the possibility of expanding the CORAS partnership, in a yet to be determined way, shape and form, to other Ohio Appalachian institutions of higher learning. Institutions mentioned as possibilities were Muskingum College; Marietta College; Shawnee State University; and the University of Rio Grande.

Second, the discussion focused on exploring the potential for a research project that addresses questions relating to Ohio’s new value-added program and how it might impact rural Appalachian school districts. Battelle of Kids (a state and national leader in value-added) and/or Ohio University (current CORAS research provider) were mentioned as possibilities for leading the research .

The CORAS Board of Directors will meet at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 20, 2008 for further discussion on these issues. The Leadership and Research Committee will be invited to participate in the discussion concerning the research project.

Payton moved and Dickson seconded to adjourn the meeting at 2:38 p.m. PASSED

CORAS Governing Board Meeting Minutes

September 6, 2007

EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn

Zanesville, Ohio

CORAS President Dick Murray called the meeting to order at 9:00 a.m. and opened the meeting with introductions. Board members present included: Dick Murray, Tom Wolfe, Barb Hansen, John Simmons, Dale Edwards, Dennis Meade, Lori Snyder-Lowe, James Drexler, Bill Brelsford, Pat Ciraso, Phil Satterfield, JoAnn Dugan, Greg Foley, Jack Payton, Dale Dickson, David Branch and Chuck Bizzari. Others present included: Executive Director Dick Fisher, Larry Burgess, Lori Spencer, Max Evans and Larry Miller. Board members Aimee Howley, Renee Middleton and Jim Frazier were unable to attend.

Fisher reviewed the 2006-07 financial report and submitted the FY 2008 budget. Bizzari moved and Satterfield seconded to approve the budget. PASSED

Dickson moved and Edwards seconded to approve a $2500 supplemental payment to Secretary/Financial Officer Lori Spencer for the 2007-08 school year. PASSED

Brelsford mover and Snyder-Lowe seconded to approve employment for Larry Burgess as Research Consultant at a rate of $1,500 per quarter or $6,000, plus benefits, for the 2007-08 school year. PASSED

Payton moved and Dickson seconded to employ Richard Fisher as Executive Director for the period July 1, 2007 through June 30, 2008 at a rate of $40,000 (50% paid by the Ohio University College of Education and 50% paid by the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools), plus a one-time supplemental payment of $5000 by Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools. PASSED

Brelsford moved and Hansen seconded that school districts placed in Fiscal Emergency by the State of Ohio may request a membership dues waiver by submitting a letter of request, signed by the superintendent and board president, to the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Executive Director. A school district may receive a one-year fee waiver for each consecutive 5-year period of paid membership. (Example: The school district has been a paid member for 15 consecutive years. The district may receive a membership fee waive for three years if under Fiscal Emergency.) The CORAS Board of Directors will consider requests on a case-by-case basis at their annual August or September meeting. PASSED

Discussed 2007-08 membership programs, dates and locations. They are:

• September 11, 2007 Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan, FY08-08 School Funding with Dick Maxwell
• October 30, 2007 Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan- The Governor’s education policy advisors will discuss “school funding and education reform.”
• Board members were requested to provide nominations for Hicks Executive-In-Residence honorees that will be selected over the  next 3 years.
• June 10, 2007 EagleSticks, Zanesville- annual golf outing and summer meeting.
 
• Requested suggestions from the board for programs tentatively set for January 29, 2008, March 11, 2008 and April 22, 2008.

Larry Miller, E&A Coalition Steering Committee Chairperson, discussed the future of the Ohio Coalition for Equity & Adequacy of School Funding.

The 2006-07 Annual Report: Board members were asked to refer to the Quarterly Reports.

A report on the 2007-08 CORAS membership drive show 96 members as of September 4, 2007. Members of the board of directors were requested to contact superintendents in their region who have not renewed their 2007-08 memberships.

The Executive Director requested suggestions for improving membership communication.

Max Evans updated the board of directors on Ohio Public School Dialogue activities.

Brelsford made the motion to adjourn the meeting. Payton seconded the motion.  PASSED

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2007

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met at the Ohio University Inn, Athens on April 24, 2007. President Charles Bizzari called the meeting to order at 1:15 PM. Board members in attendance included Phil Satterfield, Charles Bizzari, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Dale Edwards, Dennis Meade, Barbara Hansen, Dick Murray and David Branch, newly elected board member Bill Brelsford and Executive Director Dick Fisher. Board members unable to attend were John Simmons, Jack Payton, Patricia Ciraso, Jim Frazier, Bob Caldwell, Dale Dickson, Tom Wolfe, Joe Pielech, Aimee Howley, Renee Middleton, Glenn Doston, and Catherine Glascock.

• Edwards moved and Satterfield seconded to approve the 2007-08 Partnership Agreement with Ohio University College of Education. PASSED
• Executive Director Fisher announced that John Simmons, Superintendent, Vinton County Local was elected to the Board of Directors in Region 3 and Bill Brelsford, Superintendent, Caldwell Exempted Village was elected in Region 5.
• Satterfield moved and Murray seconded to appoint the following to the Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2007 and ending June 30, 2010.
• Region 3 – Jack Payton, Superintendent, Gallipolis City
• Region 5 - Charles Bizzari, Superintendent, Belmont-Harrison JVS
• Ex-Officio – Tom Wolfe, Superintendent, Bern Union Local To complete the term of retiring superintendent Joe Pielech , beginning July 1, 2007 and ending June 30, 2008
• Region 7 – Jim Drexler, Superintendent, Harrison Hills City PASSED
• Edwards moved and Meade seconded to confirm Richard Murray, Superintendent Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center as 2007-08 CORAS President and David Branch, Superintendent, Franklin Local, President-elect for 2007-08. PASSED
• CORAS President Bizzari adjourned the meeting at 1:35 PM.

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS

Board of Directors Meeting

March 13, 2007

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met at the Holiday Inn in Zanesville on March 13, 2007. President Charles Bizzari called the meeting to order at 1:30 PM. Board members in attendance included Dale Dickson, Bob Caldwell, Phil Satterfield, Tom Wolfe, Charles Bizzari, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Dale Edwards, Aimee Howley, Joe Pielech, Barbara Hansen, Dick Murray and David Branch Also in attendance were Executive Director Dick Fisher and Larry Burgess. Board members unable to attend were John Simmons, Jack Payton, Patricia Ciraso, Dennis Meade, Jim Frazier, Renee Middleton, Glenn Doston, and Catherine Glascock.

• The Executive Director presented the mid-year financial report. Receipts for the period July1, 2006 through December 31, 2006 were $54,995.00. Expenditures for the same period were $27,648.76.
• Spring elections for the board of directors will be held for Region 3. John Simmons is the current elected director and Jack Payton is the current appointed director. An election will also be held in Region 5 where Bob Caldwell is the current elected director and Charles Bizzari is the current appointed director.
• The membership report listed 134 school districts, institutions of higher learning and other agencies as being active members of the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools. This years membership is the highest ever for CORAS.
• The speakers and the Hicks honoree for the Hicks Executive-in-Residence program, to be held on April 24, 2007 at the Ohio University Inn in Athens, were announced.
• Nominations for 2007 Leadership and Service Recognitions were discussed. Individuals from rural Appalachia Ohio, who have made a “significant effort” to improve the educational opportunities for all school children in the region, are eligible the recognition.
• The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Summer Planning Meeting was set for the Brass Ring Golf Club in Logan on Thursday, September 6, 2007 from 9:00 AM to noon.
• CORAS President-elect Dick Murray discussed the proposed constitutional amendment and the importance of getting organized. CORAS region directors will be requested to establish a “telephone tree” within each of the seven CORAS regions to assist with monitoring the petition signature gathering process.
• CORAS Charles Bizzari declared the meeting adjourned at 2:30 PM.

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS

Board of Directors Meeting

September 7, 2006

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met at the Brass Ring Golf Club in Logan on September 7, 2006. CORAS President Charles Bizzari called the meeting to order at 9:10 AM. Board members in attendance included Bob Caldwell, Phil Satterfield, Tom Wolfe, Charles Bizzari, Richard Murray, Aimee Howley, James Frazier, Catherine Glascock, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Jack Payton, Glenn Doston, Dennis Meade, Dale Edwards and Joe Pielech. Also in attendance were Executive Director Dick Fisher, Secretary & Financial Officer Lori Spencer, Leadership and Research Committee Co- Chair Max Evans and guest speaker William L. Phillis, Executive Director, E&A Coalition. Board members unable to attend were David Branch, Renee Middleton, Dale Dickson, John Simmons, Barbara Hansen and Patricia Ciraso.

• President Bizzari opened the meeting with introductions.
• College of Education Senior Associate Dean Glenn Doston discussed the benefits gained from CORAS and the College of Education working together. He also expressed his and the Dean’s desire to continue this long-standing good relationship with area schools and their administrators.
• Fisher presented the 2005-06 financial report and the 2006-07 CORAS budget. Payton moved and Pielech seconded to approve the financial report and the 2006-07 budget. PASSED
• The 2006-07 Relationship Agreement between CORAS and the College of Education, Ohio University was reviewed. Meade moved and Edwards seconded to approve the agreement. PASSED
• Pielech moved and Wolfe seconded to approve a one-time $2000 payment to Lori Spencer, Secretary/Financial Officer, to provide services to CORAS as needed, over and above her current duties. PASSED
• Satterfield moved and Edwards seconded to re-employ Larry Burgess for one-year as CORAS consultant and research associate at a salary of $1,500.00 per quarter or $6,000.00 annually, plus employer share of retirement, medicare and workers’ compensation. PASSED
• Caldwell moved and Wolfe seconded to re-employ Dick Fisher as CORAS executive director for the 2006-07 school year. The salary to be the same a last year plus a one-time $5000 payment. PASSED.
• Executive Director Fisher presented the “annual report” to the board of directors. The average number of people attending CORAS meetings/programs in 2005-06 was 64.5. In addition, Fisher reviewed the CORAS Quarterly Reports for July 2005 through June 2006. A report was provided to the board of directors that showed the CORAS web site, www.coras.org, received 31,046 visitors, 107,044 hits and 47,903 page views July 2005 through June 2006. Howley concluded the “annual report” by providing a progress report on the CORAS/COE research project.
• A list of CORAS superintendent changes was distributed to members of the board of directors. The CORAS membership drive is underway. Membership renewals as of September 5, 2006 stood at 104, about 10 ahead of last year on this date. The membership goal for the 2006-07 school year is 135. Board members were asked to contact previous members in their region who have not yet renewed 2006-07 memberships.
• The 2006-07 CORAS program dates were announced.
• September 21, 2006 program is set for the Ohio University Inn, Athens.
  
  Educational Regional Service System…Craig Burford, Executive Director, Ohio Educational Service Center Association Rural Early Adolescents Learning Program that will Address Challenges Faced by Rural Schools. …Dr. Tom Farmer, Co-director, National Research Center on Rural Education Support and Associate Professor, Pennsylvania State University.
• October 31, 2006 program is set for the Olde Dutch Restaurant, Logan.
  
  Understanding & Using Value-Added Analysis Battelle for Kids: Bringing clarity to school improvement Dr. James W. Mahoney, Executive Director, and Staff
• November 2006 (tentative) “School Funding Constitutional Amendment Proposal”
• Other meetings are tentatively set for the months of January, March and April 2007. The date for the 2006 Hicks Executive-in-Residence program has not been set.
• June 12, 2007 is the date for the Summer Meeting and Golf Outing at EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville.
A survey was distributed to the board members seeking suggestions and ideas for programs and speakers for 2007 CORAS meetings. William L. Phillis and Richard Murray discussed the school funding remedy proposal (constitutional amendment) for Ohio and organizing/funding a campaign to pass a constitutional amendment.

CORAS President Bizzari adjourned the meeting at 12:45 PM.

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS

Board of Directors Meeting

April 25, 2006

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met at the Ohio University Inn, Athens on April 25, 2006. President Phil Satterfield called the meeting to order at 12:45 PM. Board members in attendance included Tom Davis, Dianne Gut, Phil Satterfield, Scott Davis, Dennis Meade, Patricia Ciraso, and David Branch. Also in attendance were Executive Director Dick Fisher and Consultant and Research Associate Larry Burgess. Board members unable to attend were Dale Dickson, Tom Wolfe, Mike Smith, Aimee Howley, Bob Caldwell, Joe Pielech, Charles Bizzari, Dale Edwards, Kyle Kanuckel, Jack Payton and John Simmons.

• The CORAS/College of Education 2006-07 Partnership Agreement was discussed. The final document will be presented for approval at the September 7, 2006 Board of Directors meeting.
• Arrangements were made for the May 4, 2006 meeting requested by Dr. Susan Zelman, State Superintendent of Public Instruction.
• Burgess reported on the CORAS/COE Leadership and Research project.
• The results of 2006 region elections for the Board of Directors were announced. Those elected were: Region 1, James Frazier, Superintendent, Brown County Educational Service Center; Region 4, Dale Dickson, Superintendent, Perry-Hocking Education Service Center; and Region 6, Richard Murray, Superintendent, Muskingum Valley Educational Service Center. The term of office begins July 1, 2006 and ends June 30, 2009.
• Meade moved and T. Davis seconded the following superintendents be appointed to the Board of Directors for the term beginning July 1, 2006 and ending June 30, 2009. Region 1, Phil Satterfield, Ross-Pike Educational Service Center; Region 4, Lori Snyder-Lowe, Morgan Local School District; and Region 6, David Branch, Franklin Local School District. PASSED
• College of Education appointments to the Board of Directors will be announced by the College of Education Dean within the next two-weeks.
• S. Davis moved and Ciraso seconded that Dr. Barbara Hansen, Department of Education, Muskingum College and Dr. Aimee Howley, College of Education, Ohio University, be appointed as ex-officio members of the Board of Directors for the term July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2009. PASSED
• The Board of Directors confirmed President –elect Charles Bizzari, Superintendent, Belmont-Harrison Joint Vocational School, as 2006-07 CORAS President.
• Ciraso moved and S. Davis seconded that Richard Murray be elected to the position of CORAS President-elect for 2006-07. PASSED
• Members of the Board of Directors were reminded that the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Summer Planning Meeting was set for the Brass Ring Golf Club in Logan on Thursday, September 7, 2006 from 9:00 AM to noon.
• The Annual Summer Meeting and Golf Outing will be Tuesday, June 20, 2006 at EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville. The program will include presentations on Advanced Placement and a proposed school-funding constitutional amendment.

CORAS President Satterfield declared the meeting adjourned at 1:15 PM.

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS

Board of Directors Meeting

January 31, 2006

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met at the Olde Dutch Restaurant in Logan on January 31, 2006. President Phil Satterfield called the meeting to order at 1:00 PM. Board members in attendance included Dale Dickson, Bob Caldwell, Tom Davis, Mike Smith, Dianne Gut, Phil Satterfield, Tom Wolfe, Charles Bizzari, Scott Davis, Dennis Meade, Dale Edwards, Patricia Ciraso, Aimee Howley, Jack Payton and Joe Pielech Also in attendance were Executive Director Dick Fisher, Consultant and Research Associate Larry Burgess, Leadership and Research Committee Co- Chair Max Evans and David Branch. Board members unable to attend were Kyle Kanuckel, Barbara Hansen and John Simmons.

• The Executive Director presented the mid-year financial report. Receipts for the period July1, 2005 through December 31, 2005 were $49,370.00. Expenditures for the same period were $25,281.00.
• Wolfe moved and Bizzari seconded to appoint David Branch, Superintendent, Franklin Local school District, Muskingum County, to fill the unexpired term of Barbara Hansen. PASSED
• Hansen retired from East Muskingum Local School District to accept a position at Muskingum College.
• Spring elections for the board of directors will be held for Region 1, Phil Satterfield, current elected and Michael Smith current appointed directors, Region 4, Dale Dickson, current elected and Scott Davis current appointed directors and Region 6, Kyle Kanuckel, current elected and David Branch, current appointed directors.
• The membership report listed 128 school districts, institutions of higher learning and other agencies as being active members of the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools as of January 31, 2006.
• Nominations for 2006 Leadership and Service Recognitions were discussed. Individuals from rural Appalachia Ohio, who have made a “significant effort” to improve the educational opportunities for all school children in the region, are eligible the recognition.
• The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Summer Planning Meeting was set for the Brass Ring Golf Club in Logan on Thursday, September 7, 2006 from 9:00 AM to noon.
• Dean Tom Davis discussed a College of Education Advanced Placement initiative and the COE Dean/CORAS Superintendent Advisory Discussion Group.
• Max Evans distributed materials for the Ohio Public School Dialogue.
• Aimee Howley and Larry Burgess updated the board of directors on current COE/CORAS research projects.
• The Executive Director provided information on CORAS participation on the Science and Mathematics Education Policy Advisory Council (SAMEPAC), the School Finance Redesign Project Advisory Committee and the Ohio Mayor’s Education Roundtable. It was also announced that a meeting would be held on February 14, 2006 with a federal mediator to search for “common ground” among the educational organizations regarding a remedy proposal for the school funding crisis.
• Dickson requested participation for area American History teachers in the “Think Ohio” project sponsored joint by Perry-Hocking Education Service Center, Ohio University and the Ohio Historical Society.
• Payton moved and Wolfe seconded to adjourn the meeting. CORAS President Satterfield declared the meeting adjourned at 2:00 PM.

______________________________________________________________________

AMENDMENT TO CORAS CONSTITUTION, ARTICLE IV, ORGANIZATION AND GOVERNANCE, Section 1, IS APPROVED BY CORAS MEMBERSHIP

The following paragraph becomes part of ARTICLE IV, Section 1 of the Coalition of Rural an Appalachian Schools Constitution and By-Laws.

Paragraph three reads:

• If an elected or appointed member of the board of directors fails to attend at least one board of directors or membership meeting during the twelve month period, July 1 through June 30, the President shall move that director to ex-officio status for the duration of his/her term and appoint a superintendent from his/her region to fill the elected or appointed vacancy for the remainder of the unexpired term.

The current paragraph three, “Ex-officio membership on the Board of…”becomes paragraph four.

The amendment is effective July 1, 2006.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

September 8, 2005

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met at the Brass Ring Golf Club in Logan on September 8, 2005. President Phil Satterfield called the meeting to order at 9:20 AM. Board members in attendance included Dale Dickson, Bob Caldwell, Tom Davis, Mike Smith, John Simmons, Dianne Gut, Phil Satterfield, Tom Wolfe, Charles Bizzari, Scott Davis, Dennis Meade, Dale Edwards and Joe Pielech Also in attendance were Executive Director Dick Fisher, Consultant and Research Associate Larry Burgess and Leadership and Research Committee Co- Chair Max Evans.

• Guest speakers Jennifer Stewart and Tom McGuire were also present for part of the meeting. Board members unable to attend were Aimee Howley, Kyle Kanuckel, Barbara Hansen, Jack Payton and Patricia Ciraso.
• President Satterfield opened the meeting with introductions.
• Dean Tom Davis shared some thoughts and expressed his interest in having a good relationship with the area schools and their administrators.
• Fisher presented the 2004-05 financial report and the 2005-06 CORAS budget. Bizzari moved and Wolfe seconded to approve the financial report and the 2005-06 budget. PASSED
• Edwards moved and Meade seconded to re-employ Dick Fisher as Executive Director for the period July 1, 2005 to June 30 2006. PASSED
• Bizzari moved and Wolfe seconded that compensation for the Executive Director is set at the same annual salary, plus a one-time salary adjustment of $5,000.00. PASSED
• Dickson moved and Edwards seconded to re-employ Larry Burgess for one-year as CORAS consultant and research associate at a salary of $1,500.00 per quarter or $6,000.00 annually, plus employer share of retirement, medicare and workers’ compensation. PASSED
• Executive Director Fisher presented the “annual report” to the board of directors. The average participation at CORAS meetings in 2004-05 was 57. In addition, Fisher reviewed the CORAS Quarterly Reports for October 2004 through July 2005. A report was provided to the board of directors that showed the CORAS web site, www.coras.org, received 36,537 visitors and 112,474 hits over the past year. Ohio University, University of Rio Grande, Shawnee State University and the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools have formed a partnership in the development of the South East Ohio Center of Excellence in Mathematics and Science. Satterfield commented on a productive meeting with SEOCEMS staff. SEOCEMS is looking at developing relationships with the region’s schools. Burgess concluded the “annual report” by providing a progress report on the CORAS/COE research project/question, “What is the character of communication between boards and superintendents in effective districts?”
• A list of CORAS superintendent changes was distributed to members of the board of directors. The CORAS membership drive is underway. Membership renewals, as of September 6, 2005, stood at 94. The membership goal for the 2005-06 school year is 140. CORAS had 133 members in 2004-05. Board members were asked to contact previous members in their region who have not yet renewed 2005-06 memberships.
• The 2005-06 CORAS program dates were announced. They are: September 15, 2005, 2005-06 School Finance Update With Dick Maxwell; October 25, 2005, “Why Public Schools Are Losing the Public Debate about Education,” presented by the Cochran Group Inc., Columbus; January 31, 2006, To be announced; March 14, 2006, To be announced; April 25, 2006, Samuel I. Hicks Executive-in-Residence with Dr. David Monk, Dean, Pennsylvania State University, as honoree; and June 20, 2006, Summer meeting and annual golf outing.
• Board members were asked to email ideas or comments on how CORAS communications and publications might be improved.
• A questionnaire was distributed to the board of directors seeking suggestions and ideas for new directions and programs for CORAS. Board members completed the questionnaires and returned them to the Executive Director.
• Meade moved and Tom Davis seconded that the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian support the four constitutional amendments proposed by Reform Ohio Now (RON). The proposed amendments will be voted on in the November 2006 general election. PASSED
• Jennifer Stewart, State Board Member, 9th District, discussed priorities set by the state board of education and her role and activities with the National Association of State School Boards.
• Tom McGuire, Attorney, Federal Hocking school board member, regional coordinator for Educate Ohio constitutional amendment and member of the OSBA constitutional amendment committee, presented a comparison between the Educate Ohio and the OSBA constitutional amendment proposals.
• President Satterfield announced the CORAS board of directors would meet briefly after the September 15, 2005 membership meeting at the Olde Dutch Restaurant in Logan.

CORAS President Satterfield adjourned the meeting at 12:45 PM.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

September 15, 2005

The CORAS Board of Directors met at the Olde Dutch Restaurant in Logan on September 15, 2005. Board members present were: Bizzari, Caldwell, Ciraso, Dickson, Edwards, Meade, Payton, Pielech, Wolfe, Smith and CORAS President Satterfield. Executive Director Fisher was also present. T. Davis, Gut, Kanuckel, Hanson, Simmons, S. Davis and Howley were unable to attend.

• President Satterfield called the meeting to order at 1:30 PM.
• Dickson move and Caldwell seconded that the following amendment to the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Constitution and By-Laws be submitted to the membership at the next regularly scheduled meeting, with the amendment to be voted on by those members present at the first membership meeting following the next regularly scheduled meeting.
• PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE IV, ORGANIZATION AND GOVERNANCE, Section 1  If the amendment is approved, the following occurs.
  • Paragraph three becomes:
    
    If an elected or appointed member of the board of directors fails to attend at least one board of directors or membership meeting during the twelve month period, July 1 through June 30, the President shall move that director to ex-officio status for the duration of his/her term and appoint a superintendent from his/her region to fill the elected or appointed vacancy for the remainder of the unexpired term.
  • The current paragraph three, “Ex-officio membership on the Board of…” becomes paragraph four.
  PASSED
• Payton moved and Pielech seconded to award a one-time $2000.00 payment to Lori Spencer, Secretary/Account Specialist, for services above and beyond her regular duties as assigned by Ohio University. PASSED

President Satterfield adjourned the meeting at 1:40.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

April 26, 2005

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Board of Directors met on April 26, 2005 at the Ohio University Inn, Athens. The following board members were present: Dickson, Ciraso, Beach, Davis, Bizzari, Edwards, Howley, Hansen, Heap, Simmons, Caldwell, Payton, Meade, President-elect Satterfield, President Wolfe and Executive Director Fisher. Kanuckel, Pielech and Smith were unable to attend. CORAS President Tom Wolfe called the meeting to order at 12:55 PM.

• Dean Heap presented the CORAS/College of Education partnership agreement renewal for 2005-06. The agreement provides the same level of financial support as past years. An addition to the agreement encourages more COE faculty participation on the CORAS Leadership and Research Committee. Payton moved to approve the 2005-06 CORAS/College of Education Partnership Agreement. Dickson seconded the motion. PASSED
• CORAS Legislative Committee Chair Satterfield reported on the March 10, 2005 committee meeting. Satterfield reported the Legislative Committee focus is on securing signatures for the Educate Ohio constitutional amendment and board of education resolutions supporting a constitutional amendment.
• Lead Researcher, Dr. Aimee Howley, reported on the research progress. She pointed out that Teachers College Records publish an article relating to the CORAS/COE research project. She also said the current research project is moving forward and that Larry Burgess had begun conducting interviews in school districts.
• The re-election of Dennis Meade, Minford Local (Region 2) and Dale Edwards, Jefferson County JVS (Region 7) to a three-year term to the CORAS Board of Directors was confirmed. The term in office begins on July 1, 2005 and ends on June 30, 2008. Payton moved and Satterfield seconded to appoint Patricia Ciraso, Washington-Nile Local (Region 2) and Joe Pielech, Buckeye Local (Region 7) to the CORAS Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2005 and ending June 30, 2008 PASSED
• The 2005-06 College of Education appointments to the Board of Directors are Dr. Bonnie Beach. Dr. Aimee Howley and the Dean of the College of Education.
• Edwards moved and Caldwell seconded the nomination and election of Charles Bizzari, Superintendent, Belmont-Harrison JVS to CORAS President-elect for the 2005-06 school year. PASSED
• The Board of Directors was reminded that the annual summer planning meeting would be held from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Thursday, September 8, 2005. The tentative location is the Brass Rail in Logan.
• Golf Outing Chairperson Dickson announced the Summer Seminar and Golf Outing would be held at the EagleSticks Golf Club and Inn, Zanesville, on Tuesday, June 21, 2005. The fee is $50.00, which includes a full buffet breakfast, the program, green fee, cart, golf shirt, prizes and a prime rib dinner. Dickson is seeking help from board members in securing additional sponsors for this event. He indicated that at least five more sponsors are need. Board members agreed to help with this matter.

Hansen moved and Payton moved to adjourn the meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 1:40 PM.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting

January 25, 2005

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Board of Directors met at the Olde Dutch Restaurant in Logan on Tuesday, January 25, 2005. Those attending were: Phil Satterfield, Michael Smith, Dennis Meade, John Simmons, Jack Payton, Dale Dickson, Scott Davis, Bob Caldwell, Charles Bizzari, Barbara Hansen, Dale Edwards, Joe Pielech, Thomas Wolfe, Aimee Howley, Larry Burgess and Dick Fisher. Board members Patricia Ciraso, Kyle Kanuckel, Bonnie Beach and James Heap were unable to attend.

• President Wolfe called the meeting to order at 1:20 PM.
• Dr. Howley updated the board of directors on the CORAS/COE research project. She indicated that a literature review was underway on the Superintendent/Board Member Relationship study. The Leadership & Research committee will report to the full membership at the March 15, 2005 CORAS meeting.
• The Executive Director provided board members with the financial report for the period July1, 2004 through December 31, 2004.
  • Fiscal Year-to-Date Receipts…………………$40,160.00
  • Fiscal Year-to-Date Expenditures……………$20,878.36
  • Fund Balance as of December 31, 2004…….$109,220.13
• The 2004-05 membership report was presented. There are currently 132 active members in CORAS.
• Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Region 2 (Adams, Lawrence, Pike and Scioto counties), represented by elected member Dennis Meade and Region 7 (Carroll, Columbiana, Harrison, Jefferson and Tuscarawas counties), represented by Dale Edwards term in office expire on June 30, 2005. Elections in these regions will be held in March and April. The appointed position in Region 2 and 7 (Patricia Ciraso and Joe Pielech) also expire. The board of directors will make appointments to the board from these regions in April.
• A discussion was held on possible recipients for 2005 CORAS Leadership and Service recognition. Board members were asked to submit names for consideration to the Executive Director.
• Dickson moved and Edwards seconded that the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools support the concept of a constitutional amendment [Flannery proposal] that addresses the over-reliance on local property taxes and school funding reform as ordered by the Ohio Supreme Court, with final approval when amendment language is acceptable to the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools and the Ohio Coalition for Equity and Adequacy of School Funding. PASSED
• The 2005-06 Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Board of Directors Planning Meeting will be held on Thursday, September 8, 2005 from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The meeting will be held at the Brass Ring Golf Club and Restaurant in Logan provided that arrangements can be made.
• Dickson, summer golf outing committee chair, discussed the 2005 summer meeting and golf outing. The original date of Tuesday, June 14, 2005 had to be changed because it conflicted with the BASA summer meeting. He said the new date would probably be the week of June 20th. Dickson also requested help in securing sponsors for the event.

Bizarri moved and Dickson seconded to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 2:00 PM

COALITION OF RURAL AND APPALACHIAN SCHOOLS

Board of Directors Meeting

September 9, 2004

The Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools (CORAS) Board of Directors met in McCracken Hall at Ohio University on September 9, 2004. In the absence of President Tom Wolfe, President-elect Phil Satterfield called the meeting to order at 10:25 AM. Board members in attendance included Dale Dickson, Bob Caldwell, James Heap, Mike Smith, John Simmons, Patricia Ciraso, Aimee Howley, Phil Satterfield and Tom Wolfe. Also in attendance were Executive Director Dick Fisher, Consultant and Research Associate Larry Burgess and Leadership and Research Committee Co- Chair Max Evans. Board members unable to attend were Bonnie Beach, Charles Bizzari, Dale Edwards, Kyle Kanuckel, Barbara Hansen, Jack Payton and Dennis Meade.

 

• Caldwell moved and Simmons seconded to appoint Tom Wolfe as an ex-officio member of the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Board of Directors for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2004 and ending June 30, 2007, provided that Berne Union Local School District is a member of CORAS. PASSED
 
• CORAS President Tom Wolfe arrived and presided over the remainder of the meeting.
• Satterfield moved and Smith seconded to appoint Scott Davis, Superintendent, Morgan Local School District (Region 4, term expiring June 30, 2006) and Joe Pielech, Superintendent, Buckeye Local School District (Region 7, term expiring June 30, 2005) to the Board of Directors. PASSED
• Smith moved and Satterfield seconded to approve the financial report and the 2004-05 budget. PASSED
• Dickson moved and Caldwell seconded to re-employ Dick Fisher as Executive Director for the period July 1, 2004 to June 30 2005 at the same annual salary, plus a one-time salary adjustment of $5,000.00. PASSED
• Smith moved and Howley seconded to re-employ Larry Burgess for one-year, July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2005, as CORAS consultant and research associate at a salary of $1,500.00 per quarter or $6,000 annually, including benefits. PASSED
• Executive Director Fisher presented the annual report to the board of directors. In addition to the annual report, it was announced that the average participation at CORAS meetings in 2003-04 was 56.5. It was also announced that the CORAS web site, www.coras.org, received 26,238 homepage hits over the past year. Howley and Evans gave a progress report on the CORAS/COE research projects.
• A list of CORAS superintendent changes was distributed to members of the board of directors. The CORAS membership drive is underway. Membership renewals, as of September 9, 2004, stood at 96. The membership goal for the 2004-05 school year is 140. CORAS had 134 members in 2003-04. Board members agreed to contact previous members in their region who have not yet renewed 2004-05 memberships.
• The 2004-05 CORAS program dates were announced. They are: September 14, 2004, School Funding in Ohio Learning Maps; October 12, 2004, Ohio Public Education Funding: A Perspective on the Future; January 25, 2005, To be announced; March 15, 2005, To be announced; April 28, 2005, Samuel I. Hicks Executive-in-Residence; and June 14, 2005, Summer meeting and annual golf outing.
• COE Dean Heap reported on SEO-CEMS (South East Ohio Center of Excellence for Mathematics and Science). SEO-CEMS was approved to begin formal activities the spring of 2004. The program is funded by the Ohio Board of Regents for $250,000 per year guaranteed for two-years. SEO-CEMS is designed to function with a regional focus but is part of a statewide system for improving mathematics and science literacy P-16, including initial preparation and career-long professional development of mathematics and science teachers. Ohio University, Shawnee State University, University of Rio Grande and the Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools are partners in SEO-CEMS.
• The results of the CORAS Legislative Committee survey questions to Ohio House and Senate candidates on the November ballot were distributed to the board of directors. The survey questions focused on school funding and the DeRolph decision. Only 10 of the 34 “Appalachian” candidates, or 29.4%, answered the survey questions. Those returning the survey were House candidates Uecker R-66; Dodd D-91; Lang D-92; Hollister R-93; Domenick D-95; and Mason D-97. Senate candidates returning the survey were Schwietering D-14; Padgett R-20; Anderson D-20; and Wilson D-30. No other candidates answered the questions or returned the CORAS survey.
• Burgess conducted a brief session to determine the board of director’s preference of topics, programs and speakers that could be included in the planning for future CORAS meetings.

CORAS President Wolfe adjourned at 12:45 PM.

Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools

Board of Directors Meeting Review

April 29, 2004

The CORAS Board of Directors met at the Ohio University Inn, Athens on April 29, 2004. CORAS President Bob Caldwell called the meeting to order at 1:00 p.m. Board members present in addition to President Caldwell were: Jack Payton, John Simmons, Mike Crawford, Deryl Well, Dale Dickson, Aimee Howley, Dale Edwards, and James Heap. Also present Max Evans, Co-chair of the CORAS/COE Leadership and Research Committee, Larry Burgess, CORAS staff and Dick Fisher, Executive Director.

• College of Education Dean James Heap reported on the Ohio University College of Education/Coalition of Rural and Appalachian Schools Partnership Agreement for the period July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2005. Jack Payton moved and Deryl Well second to approve and accept the agreement. PASSED
• The meeting review and a school-funding proposal from the April 20, 2004 CORAS Legislative Committee was presented to the board of directors. Discussion followed with no action being taken.
• Research Committee co-chair Max Evans, Lead Researcher Aimee Howley and Research Associate Larry Burgess updated the board of directors on the status of the research project, Superintendent/Board Member Relationships. The CORAS/COE Leadership and Research Committee will meet at McCracken Hall, Ohio University on May 25, 2004.
• It was announced that John Simmons and Bob Caldwell were re-elected to the board of directors in Regions 3 and 5 respectfully. Their term in office will run from July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2007.
• Mike Crawford recommended that Charles Bizzari, Superintendent of the Belmont-Harrison JVS, be appointed to the board of directors from Region 5. Dale Edwards moved and Deryl Well seconded that Charles Bizzari and Jack Payton, Superintendent of Gallipolis City (Region 3), be appointed to the board of directors for the term July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2007. PASSED
• College of Education Dean James Heap appointed Bonnie Beach, Aimee Howley and James Heap to represent the College of Education on the board of directors for the term July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2005.
• Jack Payton nominated Phil Satterfield, Superintendent of the Paint Valley Local School District, for 2004-05 President-Elect. Dale Dickson seconded the nomination. Nominations were closed. By vote of the board of directors, Phil Satterfield was elected President-Elect.
• Dale Edwards moved to confirm Thomas Wolfe, Superintendent of the Conotton Valley Union Local School District as CORAS President effective July 1, 2004 through June 30, 2005. John Simmons seconded the motion. PASSED
• The annual CORAS Planning Conference will be held at Burr Oak State Park Lodge on Thursday and Friday, July 22-23, 2004.
• Chairperson Dale Dickson report of the 2004 reported on the summer golf outing. The outing will be held on Tuesday, June 15, 2004. Deryl Well and Bob Caldwell volunteered to assist with the event.

President Caldwell adjourned the meeting at 1:50 p.m.