13.07.2015 Views

1b 09-12-11 Supts' Agenda - Sonoma County SELPA

1b 09-12-11 Supts' Agenda - Sonoma County SELPA

1b 09-12-11 Supts' Agenda - Sonoma County SELPA

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

You also want an ePaper? Increase the reach of your titles

YUMPU automatically turns print PDFs into web optimized ePapers that Google loves.

Catherine Conrado, Ed.D 5340 Skylane Boulevard (707) 524-2750Director Santa Rosa, CA 95403 Fax (707) 524-27541. OPENING1a. Call to OrderSONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS’ COUNCILAGENDASeptember <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong>Santa Rose city Schools' Board Room8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.2. AGENDA ADDITIONS AND REORDERING3. PUBLIC INPUTDISPOSITION4. CONSENT CALENDAR4a. Approval of Minutes: ActionJune 6, 20<strong>11</strong>4b. Approval of Contracts: ActionRuth Fotouhi: Consulting Services (Not to Exceed $10,608)David Girard, Esq. Consulting Services (Not to Exceed $2,000)Ginny LaVine: Consulting Services (Not to Exceed $20,826)John Lyons: Consulting Services (Not to Exceed $4,000)Redwood Pediatrics: Consulting Services (Not to Exceed $3,500)5. DISCUSSION/INFORMATION ITEMS5a. Update on the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> DiscussionFirst Reading of Local PlanCatherine Conrado5b. Update on the Community Day School SDC InformationRon WhitmanIn compliance with Government Code § 54954.2(a), the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> will, upon request, make this agenda availablein appropriate alternative formats to persons with a disability, as required by Section 202 of the Americans with Disabilities Actof 1990 (42 U.S.C. § <strong>12</strong>132) and the federal rules and regulations adopted in implementation thereof. Individuals who need thisagenda in an alternative format or who need a disability-related modification or accommodation in order to participate in themeeting should contact Lynda Scigliano, Administrative Assistant to the <strong>SELPA</strong> Director, <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong>, 5340Skylane Boulevard, Santa Rosa, CA 95403, phone (707) 524-2752. <strong>Agenda</strong> and content materials are available for inspection atthe <strong>SELPA</strong> Office located at the above referenced address.


5c. Review Notice of REACH Charter School to Exit Informationthe <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> in 20<strong>12</strong>-13Catherine Conrado5d. <strong>SELPA</strong> Goals for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong> DiscussionKeller McDonald5e. Autism Authorization Update InformationCatherine Conrado6. ACTION ITEMS6a. Consider Revised <strong>SELPA</strong> Budget for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong> ActionCatherine Conrado6b. Consider Approval of:(1) MOU with <strong>County</strong> Mental Health for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong> Action(2) Allocation Plan for Mental Health Services Funding Actionfor 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>Catherine Conrado6c. Consider Approval of the Assistive Technology Grantees Actionfor 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>Susan Mark-Raymond6d. Consider Approval of New Members to the Finance Committee ActionCatherine Conrado6e. Consider Approval of New Member to the Steering Committee ActionCatherine Conrado7. ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING8. ADJOURNMENT


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 4aSubject: Approval of MinutesActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):Approval of Minutes of June 6, 20<strong>11</strong>Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:NoneFiscal Analysis (as appropriate):NoneRecommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOtherApprove the minutes as written.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. June 6, 20<strong>11</strong> Superintendents' Council Minutes


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS’ COUNCILMINUTESJune 6, 20<strong>11</strong>COUNCIL IN ATTENDANCE:Doug Bower (Santa Rosa)Steven Herrington (SCOE)Keller McDonald (WSCUHSD)Bob Raines (Alexander Valley)Greta Viguie (Petaluma)OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE:Kelly Brooks (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Catherine Conrado (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Greg Englar (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Deborah Malone-Larson (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Carlo Rossi (SAY)Lynda Scigliano (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Sue Field (Bennett Valley)Nanci Mathison (<strong>Sonoma</strong> Valley)Chris Rafanelli (Liberty)Kay Schultz (Mark West)Barbara Vrankovich (Cotati-Rohnert Park)Denise Calvert (SCOE)Marie Derr (CAC)Ashleigh Flagerman (CAC)Susan Mark-Raymond (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Deborah Sanders (Santa Rosa)Ron Whitman (SCOE)1. OPENING1a. Kay Schultz called the meeting to order at 8:03 a.m. Nanci Mathison, Directorof Student Services for <strong>Sonoma</strong> Valley Unified, acted in Louann Carlomagno'sstead.2. AGENDA ADDITIONS AND REORDERING2a. There were no additions or changes made to the agenda.A motion was made by Sue Field and seconded by Bob Raines to adopt theagenda. The motion carried.3. PUBLIC INPUTThere was no public input.4. PRESENTATION OF THE SPIRIT OF EDUCATION AWARD4a. Spirt of Education Award for 2010-20<strong>11</strong>:The Spirit of Education Award annually recognizes special education programs in<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> that are worthy of recognition and duplication, and serve toimprove the quality of special education. While it is a departure from pastrecognitions, the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) was selected as the2010-20<strong>11</strong> recipient. CAC co-chairs Marie Derr, Ashleigh Flagerman and EdithGarcia were recognized by the Council but only Marie and Ashleigh were able toattend to accept the award.-1-


5. PUBLIC HEARING5a. Public Hearing on the <strong>County</strong> Superintendents' Acceptance of the <strong>SELPA</strong> Budgetsfor 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>:The public hearing was opened at 8:04 a.m. There was no input from the public.The public hearing was closed at 8:04:15 a.m.6. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS6a. Approval of Minutes:• May 2, 20<strong>11</strong>6b. Approval of Contracts/Agreements:• Lois Alias Consulting Agreement• Laura Alonzo Consulting Agreement• Center for Integral Healing Consulting Agreement• Kathy Farrell Consulting Agreement• Don Lapin Consulting Agreement• Probst Speech & Language Consulting Agreement• Madeline Rasmuson Consulting Agreement• John Samples Consulting Agreement• Lauren Taylor Consulting Agreement• Tanya Mallan Letter of Agreement• Melissa K. Poole Letter of Agreement• Robert Rowen-Herzog Letter of AgreementA motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Sue Field to approvethe consent calendar items. The motion carried.7. DISCUSSION/INFORMATION ITEMS7a. Update on the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong>:In an effort to mitigate declining enrollment, and at the direction of the Council, the<strong>SELPA</strong> office continues to move forward with building a charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong> forout-of-area charter schools. The following activities have occurred since the lastreporting:• The five out-of-area charter schools who expressed interest in joining the<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> have provided written notification to the SantaClara <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> and the CDE. Catherine Conrado had a follow-upconversation with the Santa Clara <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> Director.• On May 31, 20<strong>11</strong>, the <strong>SELPA</strong> charter team traveled to Santa Clara <strong>County</strong> andvisited: 1) Charter School of Morgan Hill; 2) Cornerstone AcademyPreparatory; 3) Downtown College Preparatory; 4) Latino College Preparatory;and 5) Voices College-Bound Language Academy.• Estimated revenue for the charter schools based on current ADA was includedfor reference, minus data from the Downtown College Preparatory Charter.• David Girard, Esq., attorney for the El Dorado Charter <strong>SELPA</strong>, reviewed thedraft Local Plan and applicable <strong>SELPA</strong> policies to be incorporated in the<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> Local Plan.-2-


• The Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> Local Plan was completed and is being reviewed by theCAC. Once the CAC has certified its review, the Local Plan will be submittedto the CDE and State Board for approval.So that member districts and out-of-area charter schools thoroughly understand theprocess and anticipated outcomes of establishing the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter<strong>SELPA</strong>, Catherine Conrado was directed by the Council to develop a synopsis toaddress all components of the charge, including: 1) projected start-up costs; 2)service needs; 3) staffing requirements; 4) ongoing expenses; 5) revenue to begenerated; and 6) how the <strong>SELPA</strong>, member districts and out-of-area charterschools benefit from the charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong>.7b. Update on the Community School SDC:The proposed SCOE Community School special day class (SDC) to servestudents that have been expelled has been put on hold, with 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>established as a fact-finding and data collection year to determine how manystudent referrals might come forward. SCOE Special Education will likely bebrought into the fold for funding purposes.The Council urged SCOE administrators (Georgia Ioakimedes and RonWhitman) to take action now rather than later. Ron Whitman was asked to: 1)contact high school superintendents to schedule a meeting; 2) use currentexpulsion data to develop student referral projections; and 3) to launch theprogram with a class to be opened by mid-20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> versus 20<strong>12</strong>-2013.7c. Update on 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> State Budget and Special Education:• On May 16, 20<strong>11</strong>, Governor Brown unveiled his May Revise. Factoring in therecent spike in state personal income tax revenues, the Governor proposes toincrease Prop 98 by $3 billion to maintain funding for K-<strong>12</strong> education at currentyear levels.• For special education programs, the Governor proposes shifting theresponsibility to provide mental health services and out-of-home care residentialservices from county mental health and welfare agencies to school agencies,effective July 1, 20<strong>11</strong>.• The <strong>SELPA</strong> Directors distributed a Position Paper adopted on June 2, 20<strong>11</strong> inresponse to the Governor's May Revise and proposal to repeal AB3632. Ameeting is scheduled on June 15, 20<strong>11</strong> with key stakeholders at the Capitol tofinalize the changes. Some of the items the State <strong>SELPA</strong> organization agreed tosupport include: 1) flexible funding; 2) identification of students alreadyreceiving services; 3) allow CMH make recommendations for next year with thecaveat that educational agencies' input be considered; and 4) funding in theamount of $636,000 for 2010-20<strong>11</strong>.7d. 2010-20<strong>11</strong> Report to Governing Boards:In June, the <strong>SELPA</strong> provides an end of the year report to the Superintendents'Council for review and dissemination to all Governing Boards. The reportaddresses the major activities accomplished by the Superintendents' Council and-3-


<strong>SELPA</strong> operated programs during the current school year. The 2010-20<strong>11</strong> reportwill be emailed to all superintendents for board distribution.8. ACTION ITEMS8a. Election of Council Chair for July 20<strong>11</strong>-June 2013:A motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Bob Raines toapprove the appointment of Keller McDonald to serve as the Superintendents'Council Chair for a two-year term, effective July 1, 20<strong>11</strong> through June 30,2013. The motion carried.8b. Consider Finance Committee Recommendation for the Allocation of MentalHealth Services Funds for 2010-20<strong>11</strong>:A motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Chris Rafanelli thatupon receipt of the 2010-20<strong>11</strong> mental health services funds, estimated at$636,000, revenue be allocated to districts with students in out-of-home careresidential placements on a proportionate share, pursuant to the FinanceCommittee recommendation. The motion carried.The <strong>SELPA</strong> was asked to notify those districts with students in out-of-home careresidential placements of the estimated revenue allocation to be distributed bythe <strong>SELPA</strong>.8c. Approval of Finance Committee Recommendation for Transportation ExcessCosts:A motion was made by Bob Raines and seconded by Sue Field to approve theFinance Committee recommendation covering transportation excess costs asfollows: 1) districts are to report their "actual daily cost" for transportingstudents who reside in a licensed children's institution (LCI) or foster familyhome (FFH) and attend a SCOE program; 2) the <strong>SELPA</strong> is to reimbursedistricts at 100%, funded off the top, with total costs capped at $100,000annually; and 3) any excess costs to be absorbed by districts. The motioncarried.8d. Consider Approval of 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> ATC Budget:A motion was made by Sue Field and seconded by Bob Raines to approve theATC budget for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>, including continuation of the $20,000 grant toincrease staff capacity in assistive technology and reduce reliance on ATCstaff. The motion carried.8e. Consider Approval 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> Budgets:A motion was made by Sue Field and seconded by Bob Raines to approve the<strong>SELPA</strong> budgets for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>. The motion carried.-4-


8f. Appointment of <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> LEA Charter School Representatives:A motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Bob Raines toconfirm the appointments of: 1) Susan Olson, Director of the SebastopolIndependent Charter, to serve as the LEA charter school representative on theSuperintendents' Council; and 2) Elizabeth Edson, Special Education Directorof Pathways Charter, to serve as the LEA charter school representative on theSteering Committee. The motion carried.8g. Proposed Superintendents' Council Meeting Schedule for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>:A motion was made by Bob Raines and seconded by Sue Field to adopt theSuperintendents' Council Meeting Schedule for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>. The motioncarried.9. RECOGNITION9a. Members departing the Superintendents' Council are traditionally recognized andthanked at the June meeting. This year's retirees include Kay Schultz, NoelBuehler, Greta Viguie and Barbara Vrankovich.10. ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING10a. AB3632 Update10b. <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> Update10c. Development of Goals for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>10d. ATC Pilot Grant Submissions10e. Autism Authorization Application Process<strong>11</strong>. CLOSED SESSION<strong>11</strong>a. The Superintendents' Council will Conduct the <strong>SELPA</strong> Director's AnnualEvaluation:At 9:45 a.m., the Council convened to closed session to conduct the <strong>SELPA</strong>Director's Annual Evaluation.<strong>12</strong>. OPEN SESSION<strong>12</strong>a. Report on Closed Session:At 10:00 a.m., the meeting reconvened to open session.13. ADJOURNMENT13a. The meeting adjourned at 10:01 a.m.Respectfully submitted,Lynda Scigliano<strong>SELPA</strong> Administrative Assistant-5-


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS’ COUNCILMINUTESJune 6, 20<strong>11</strong>COUNCIL IN ATTENDANCE:Doug Bower (Santa Rosa)Steven Herrington (SCOE)Keller McDonald (WSCUHSD)Bob Raines (Alexander Valley)Greta Viguie (Petaluma)OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE:Kelly Brooks (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Catherine Conrado (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Greg Englar (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Deborah Malone-Larson (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Carlo Rossi (SAY)Lynda Scigliano (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Sue Field (Bennett Valley)Nanci Mathison (<strong>Sonoma</strong> Valley)Chris Rafanelli (Liberty)Kay Schultz (Mark West)Barbara Vrankovich (Cotati-Rohnert Park)Denise Calvert (SCOE)Marie Derr (CAC)Ashleigh Flagerman (CAC)Susan Mark-Raymond (<strong>SELPA</strong>)Deborah Sanders (Santa Rosa)Ron Whitman (SCOE)1. OPENING1a. Kay Schultz called the meeting to order at 8:03 a.m. Nanci Mathison, Directorof Student Services for <strong>Sonoma</strong> Valley Unified, acted in Louann Carlomagno'sstead.2. AGENDA ADDITIONS AND REORDERING2a. There were no additions or changes made to the agenda.A motion was made by Sue Field and seconded by Bob Raines to adopt theagenda. The motion carried.3. PUBLIC INPUTThere was no public input.4. PRESENTATION OF THE SPIRIT OF EDUCATION AWARD4a. Spirt of Education Award for 2010-20<strong>11</strong>:The Spirit of Education Award annually recognizes special education programs in<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> that are worthy of recognition and duplication, and serve toimprove the quality of special education. While it is a departure from pastrecognitions, the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) was selected as the2010-20<strong>11</strong> recipient. CAC co-chairs Marie Derr, Ashleigh Flagerman and EdithGarcia were recognized by the Council but only Marie and Ashleigh were able toattend to accept the award.-1-


5. PUBLIC HEARING5a. Public Hearing on the <strong>County</strong> Superintendents' Acceptance of the <strong>SELPA</strong> Budgetsfor 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>:The public hearing was opened at 8:04 a.m. There was no input from the public.The public hearing was closed at 8:04:15 a.m.6. CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS6a. Approval of Minutes:• May 2, 20<strong>11</strong>6b. Approval of Contracts/Agreements:• Lois Alias Consulting Agreement• Laura Alonzo Consulting Agreement• Center for Integral Healing Consulting Agreement• Kathy Farrell Consulting Agreement• Don Lapin Consulting Agreement• Probst Speech & Language Consulting Agreement• Madeline Rasmuson Consulting Agreement• John Samples Consulting Agreement• Lauren Taylor Consulting Agreement• Tanya Mallan Letter of Agreement• Melissa K. Poole Letter of Agreement• Robert Rowen-Herzog Letter of AgreementA motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Sue Field to approvethe consent calendar items. The motion carried.7. DISCUSSION/INFORMATION ITEMS7a. Update on the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong>:In an effort to mitigate declining enrollment, and at the direction of the Council, the<strong>SELPA</strong> office continues to move forward with building a charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong> forout-of-area charter schools. The following activities have occurred since the lastreporting:• The five out-of-area charter schools who expressed interest in joining the<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> have provided written notification to the SantaClara <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> and the CDE. Catherine Conrado had a follow-upconversation with the Santa Clara <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> Director.• On May 31, 20<strong>11</strong>, the <strong>SELPA</strong> charter team traveled to Santa Clara <strong>County</strong> andvisited: 1) Charter School of Morgan Hill; 2) Cornerstone AcademyPreparatory; 3) Downtown College Preparatory; 4) Latino College Preparatory;and 5) Voices College-Bound Language Academy.• Estimated revenue for the charter schools based on current ADA was includedfor reference, minus data from the Downtown College Preparatory Charter.• David Girard, Esq., attorney for the El Dorado Charter <strong>SELPA</strong>, reviewed thedraft Local Plan and applicable <strong>SELPA</strong> policies to be incorporated in the<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> Local Plan.-2-


• The Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> Local Plan was completed and is being reviewed by theCAC. Once the CAC has certified its review, the Local Plan will be submittedto the CDE and State Board for approval.So that member districts and out-of-area charter schools thoroughly understand theprocess and anticipated outcomes of establishing the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter<strong>SELPA</strong>, Catherine Conrado was directed by the Council to develop a synopsis toaddress all components of the charge, including: 1) projected start-up costs; 2)service needs; 3) staffing requirements; 4) ongoing expenses; 5) revenue to begenerated; and 6) how the <strong>SELPA</strong>, member districts and out-of-area charterschools benefit from the charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong>.7b. Update on the Community School SDC:The proposed SCOE Community School special day class (SDC) to servestudents that have been expelled has been put on hold, with 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>established as a fact-finding and data collection year to determine how manystudent referrals might come forward. SCOE Special Education will likely bebrought into the fold for funding purposes.The Council urged SCOE administrators (Georgia Ioakimedes and RonWhitman) to take action now rather than later. Ron Whitman was asked to: 1)contact high school superintendents to schedule a meeting; 2) use currentexpulsion data to develop student referral projections; and 3) to launch theprogram with a class to be opened by mid-20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> versus 20<strong>12</strong>-2013.7c. Update on 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> State Budget and Special Education:• On May 16, 20<strong>11</strong>, Governor Brown unveiled his May Revise. Factoring in therecent spike in state personal income tax revenues, the Governor proposes toincrease Prop 98 by $3 billion to maintain funding for K-<strong>12</strong> education at currentyear levels.• For special education programs, the Governor proposes shifting theresponsibility to provide mental health services and out-of-home care residentialservices from county mental health and welfare agencies to school agencies,effective July 1, 20<strong>11</strong>.• The <strong>SELPA</strong> Directors distributed a Position Paper adopted on June 2, 20<strong>11</strong> inresponse to the Governor's May Revise and proposal to repeal AB3632. Ameeting is scheduled on June 15, 20<strong>11</strong> with key stakeholders at the Capitol tofinalize the changes. Some of the items the State <strong>SELPA</strong> organization agreed tosupport include: 1) flexible funding; 2) identification of students alreadyreceiving services; 3) allow CMH make recommendations for next year with thecaveat that educational agencies' input be considered; and 4) funding in theamount of $636,000 for 2010-20<strong>11</strong>.7d. 2010-20<strong>11</strong> Report to Governing Boards:In June, the <strong>SELPA</strong> provides an end of the year report to the Superintendents'Council for review and dissemination to all Governing Boards. The reportaddresses the major activities accomplished by the Superintendents' Council and-3-


<strong>SELPA</strong> operated programs during the current school year. The 2010-20<strong>11</strong> reportwill be emailed to all superintendents for board distribution.8. ACTION ITEMS8a. Election of Council Chair for July 20<strong>11</strong>-June 2013:A motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Bob Raines toapprove the appointment of Keller McDonald to serve as the Superintendents'Council Chair for a two-year term, effective July 1, 20<strong>11</strong> through June 30,2013. The motion carried.8b. Consider Finance Committee Recommendation for the Allocation of MentalHealth Services Funds for 2010-20<strong>11</strong>:A motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Chris Rafanelli thatupon receipt of the 2010-20<strong>11</strong> mental health services funds, estimated at$636,000, revenue be allocated to districts with students in out-of-home careresidential placements on a proportionate share, pursuant to the FinanceCommittee recommendation. The motion carried.The <strong>SELPA</strong> was asked to notify those districts with students in out-of-home careresidential placements of the estimated revenue allocation to be distributed bythe <strong>SELPA</strong>.8c. Approval of Finance Committee Recommendation for Transportation ExcessCosts:A motion was made by Bob Raines and seconded by Sue Field to approve theFinance Committee recommendation covering transportation excess costs asfollows: 1) districts are to report their "actual daily cost" for transportingstudents who reside in a licensed children's institution (LCI) or foster familyhome (FFH) and attend a SCOE program; 2) the <strong>SELPA</strong> is to reimbursedistricts at 100%, funded off the top, with total costs capped at $100,000annually; and 3) any excess costs to be absorbed by districts. The motioncarried.8d. Consider Approval of 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> ATC Budget:A motion was made by Sue Field and seconded by Bob Raines to approve theATC budget for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>, including continuation of the $20,000 grant toincrease staff capacity in assistive technology and reduce reliance on ATCstaff. The motion carried.8e. Consider Approval 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> Budgets:A motion was made by Sue Field and seconded by Bob Raines to approve the<strong>SELPA</strong> budgets for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>. The motion carried.-4-


8f. Appointment of <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> LEA Charter School Representatives:A motion was made by Steve Herrington and seconded by Bob Raines toconfirm the appointments of: 1) Susan Olson, Director of the SebastopolIndependent Charter, to serve as the LEA charter school representative on theSuperintendents' Council; and 2) Elizabeth Edson, Special Education Directorof Pathways Charter, to serve as the LEA charter school representative on theSteering Committee. The motion carried.8g. Proposed Superintendents' Council Meeting Schedule for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>:A motion was made by Bob Raines and seconded by Sue Field to adopt theSuperintendents' Council Meeting Schedule for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>. The motioncarried.9. RECOGNITION9a. Members departing the Superintendents' Council are traditionally recognized andthanked at the June meeting. This year's retirees include Kay Schultz, NoelBuehler, Greta Viguie and Barbara Vrankovich.10. ITEMS FOR NEXT MEETING10a. AB3632 Update10b. <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> Update10c. Development of Goals for 20<strong>11</strong>-20<strong>12</strong>10d. ATC Pilot Grant Submissions10e. Autism Authorization Application Process<strong>11</strong>. CLOSED SESSION<strong>11</strong>a. The Superintendents' Council will Conduct the <strong>SELPA</strong> Director's AnnualEvaluation:At 9:45 a.m., the Council convened to closed session to conduct the <strong>SELPA</strong>Director's Annual Evaluation.<strong>12</strong>. OPEN SESSION<strong>12</strong>a. Report on Closed Session:At 10:00 a.m., the meeting reconvened to open session.13. ADJOURNMENT13a. The meeting adjourned at 10:01 a.m.Respectfully submitted,Lynda Scigliano<strong>SELPA</strong> Administrative Assistant-5-


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 4bSubject: Approval of ContractsActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):Consulting Services Agreements:• Ruth Fotouhi: Provide Occupational Therapy Services (Not to Exceed $10,608)• David Girard, Esq.: Provide Legal Services (Not to Exceed $2,000)• Ginny LaVine: Provide rehabilitation therapy/assistive technology (Not to Exceed $20,826)• John Lyons: Provide a one-day "CANS" Training to School Psychs (Not to Exceed $4,000)• Redwood Pediatric Associates: Provide Occuptational Therapy (Not to Exceed $3,500)Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:The Council annually approves contracts for a variety of <strong>SELPA</strong> services.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):The <strong>SELPA</strong> operates within its allocation of state and federal funding and adopted budget.Recommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOtherApprove the minutes as written.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Ruth Fotouhi Consulting Agreement2. David Girard, Esq. Consulting Agreement3. Ginny LaVine Consulting Agreement


4. John Lyons Consulting Agreement5. Redwood Pediatric Associates Consulting Agreement


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 5aSubject: Update on the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter<strong>SELPA</strong> - First Reading of Local PlanActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):The new Local Plan for a <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong> was submitted to CDE inJune 20<strong>11</strong>. With some CDE exchanges, it was approved to submit to the State Board;indications are that it will be on the State Board <strong>Agenda</strong> in November. This must occur inorder to operate on July 1, 20<strong>12</strong>.The Charter <strong>SELPA</strong> could assist the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> to mitigate declining revenue asa result of declining enrollment. Without additional revenue, the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> willneed to reduce staffing and modify services beginning in the 20<strong>12</strong>-13 school year. A second<strong>SELPA</strong> will be an enterprise requiring time and attention of staff that may divert services todistricts in the existing <strong>SELPA</strong>.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:The Council discussed the option of initiating a charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong> during multiple meetingsof 2010-<strong>11</strong>. Continued concerns were expressed in June 20<strong>11</strong>, about the impact such a<strong>SELPA</strong> would have on the existing <strong>SELPA</strong>. Subsequently, <strong>SELPA</strong> staff met with KellerMcDonald and Bob Raines to examine the issues more closely and to develop materials thatsupport Council members with immediate information on key facts for further discussion, asneeded. See attachment for risks and benefits.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):Refer to attached.Recommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOther


NoneAttachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Time Lines and Analysis of a Charter-only <strong>SELPA</strong>2. Draft Local Plan


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 5bSubject: Update on the Community Day School SDCActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):Member districts with high school-age students requested that SCOE create an SDC forstudents who are expelled in grades 10-<strong>12</strong>. The class must generate adequate revenue tooperate without a deficit. Currently students who would fall in this category are either movedto another high school within the district or to a nonpublic school. Students placed in anonpublic school are eligible for partial reimbursement through the NPS Pool. This practicemakes it difficult for SCOE fees to be competitive with the NPSs.Ron Whitman will report to the Council on the data received from superintendents.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:At the June 6, 20<strong>11</strong> Council meeting, SCOE reported that data received from districtsindicated an insufficient number of students from the 2010-<strong>11</strong> school year to make a viableclass for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>. Council members responded by indicating that the data were inaccurate.The Council requested that the data be requested from the superintendents rather than thespecial education directors with the goal to establish the SDC for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>. Over the summerof 20<strong>11</strong>, an email was sent to obtain data for this purpose.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):NoneRecommendations:None<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOther


Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Memo dated July 7, 20<strong>11</strong> from Steve Herrington to High School Superintendents2. Memo dated August 30, 20<strong>11</strong> from Ron Whitman to the Superintendents' Council


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 6bSubject: Consider Approval of:(1) the MOU with <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> MentalHealth Services for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>(2) the Fiscal Allocation Plan developed bythe Finance CommitteeActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):The Legislature and the Governor shifted responsibility for mental health services for studentswith disabilities from <strong>County</strong> Mental Health to Schools (AB3632), effective July 1, 20<strong>11</strong>.Funding, services, providers and a Memo Of Understanding with <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> MentalHealth (SMCH) were all in development over the summer. As decisions and proceduresdeveloped over this time period, the <strong>SELPA</strong> Director sent email updates to district staff.Complicating matters, only certain portions of AB3632 were repealed, leaving other portionsfor California Childrens Services and the Department of Rehabilitation intact.Districts will need to identify their affected students, identify providers and develop contractsfor them. In addition, there is a need to establish procedures and funding streams forcontinuing and newly-identified students. The Finance Committee recommends the processfor funding as described in the attachment.Events to date: Multiple meetings between <strong>SELPA</strong> and SMCH; shared lists of students fromSMCH to districts; procedures for referral to SMCH; creation of a Master Contract forstudents in residential placements, drafted an MOU and ISA between districts and SMCH;established payment for 2010-<strong>11</strong>; established funding streams for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>; convened ameeting of district business officials to create allocation plan options for the FinanceCommittee; drafted letter templates to parents for district use.Deborah Malone-Larson and Greg Englar accumulated contract information as well asrevenue and expense data from a variety of sources to enable focused conversation and createprocedures.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:The Director reported monthly throughout the year on the status of AB3632 based on State<strong>SELPA</strong> Director meeting information. The first Council-specific item on AB3632 was April20<strong>11</strong> to review funding for 2010-<strong>11</strong>. In May, the <strong>SELPA</strong> received an email from the <strong>County</strong>Human Services Department indicating a need for reimbursement of $2.4 million forresidential excess costs for 2010-<strong>11</strong>. The Council directed the Director to send a responseletter in objection since the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> was to receive an estimated $600,000 for


services. At the June, 20<strong>11</strong> meeting, the Council approved the Finance Committee'srecommendation for allocation of the mental health services dollars for 2010-<strong>11</strong>. The finalamount was $636,905. We await an invoice from SMCH.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):Refer to the attached summary sheet and recommendation.Recommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOtherThe Finance Committee recommends that the Council adopt the attached allocationmethodology for mental health services for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. MOU Between <strong>County</strong> Mental Health and <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong>2. State Budget Update from June 15, 20<strong>11</strong>3. <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Estimated Mental Health Revenue and Expenses4. Estimated 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>11</strong> Nonpublic School Costs5. Group Home Standard Schedule of Rates6. Proposal for Fiscal Allocation of Mental Health Services Funding for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>7. Summary of recent law changes and suggested next steps from Atkinson, et al.


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 5dSubject: <strong>SELPA</strong> Goals for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>ActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):For the past several years, the Superintendents' Council adopted goals for its activities as wellas for <strong>SELPA</strong>-wide priorities. These goals have served to guide the Council in developing itsmeeting agendas, evaluating the <strong>SELPA</strong> director, and reporting to district superintendents andschool board members about the achievement of those goals.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:For the 2010-<strong>11</strong> school year, the Council adopted four (4) specific goals in the areas of:(1) Special Education Self-Review support;(2) Examination of STAR data for students with disabilities;(3) Organizational changes at the Assistive Technology Center (ATC); and,(4) Governance and fiscal issues for charter schools, both in and out of the county.At the June, 20<strong>11</strong> meeting, some general suggestions for goal areas were Mental Healthservices and a special day class operated by SCOE for expelled high school students.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):NoneRecommendations:None<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOther


Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Goal Areas for the Superintendents' Council 2010-<strong>11</strong>


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 6aSubject: Consider Approval of the Revised<strong>SELPA</strong> Budget for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>ActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):On July 5, 20<strong>11</strong>, SCOE notified all staff of restoration of three (3) of the five (5) furloughdays for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>. The attached budgets reflect the increase in salaries for the additional days.The <strong>SELPA</strong> office and staff operate on three (3) sources of income: The RegionalizedServices Budget, Program Specialist Budget, and the Part C/Early Intervention Grants. The<strong>SELPA</strong> office stays within these sources of income to operate; the funds do not flow todistricts. The <strong>SELPA</strong> continues to have some carryover funds in those budgets. Reductions inthese budgets do not increase revenue to districts. The primary sources of revenue fordistricts and services to students are AB602 funds (state and federal special educationfunding).Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:In 2003, the Superintendents' Council approved a <strong>SELPA</strong> budget adoption process thatincludes the review of all budgets and timelines. In 2003, a legal summary submitted to theCouncil states that while the Council is responsible for certain employment related functionsand approval of the budgets, SCOE is the employer of record for all <strong>SELPA</strong> employees.The Council approved <strong>SELPA</strong> budgets in June 20<strong>11</strong>, including 5-day furlough notices for20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):Refer to attachments.Recommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOther


NoneAttachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. SCOE Announcement2. 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong> Budgets


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 6bSubject: Consider Approval for MOU with<strong>County</strong> Mental Health for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>ActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):As part of the shift of mental health services for students with disabilities from <strong>County</strong> MentalHealth to schools, the legislature appropriated Prop 63 funds to <strong>County</strong> Mental Healthagencies for one year, 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>. In order to use these funds for mental health services forstudents with disabilities, the county mental health agency must have an MOU with the<strong>SELPA</strong>. The <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Mental Health department is willing to "charge" county mentalhealth services against these funds and to use them first before accessing any <strong>SELPA</strong>/districtfunds.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:NoneFiscal Analysis (as appropriate):The estimated funding to <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Mental Health is $1.3.million.Recommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOtherApprove the MOU with <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Mental Health to enable access to the one-timefunding.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. MOU between the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Mental Health Department and the<strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> <strong>SELPA</strong>


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 6cSubject: Consider Approval of the AssistiveTechnology Grantees for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>ActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):The 2010-<strong>11</strong> budget contained a "grant" pool of $20,000 as incentive for member districts toincrease staff capacity in assistive technology and reduce reliance on ATC staff. ATC staffface increased time and caseload demands that render them unable to provide the level ofsupport of past years. The primary factors in this change are the shift in identification ofdisabilities and the increase of autism. The ATC was established to address the technologyneeds of students with low incidence disabilities and SCOE continues to be a major customerof the services. The demand and focus has shifted significantly in the last few years and had aprofound impact on staff ability to meet the needs as originally designed.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:The Council approved the ATC budget with program changes as part of a Pilot in June 2010and reviewed the success and challenges of the results from the 2010-<strong>11</strong> school year at theCouncil's May 2, 20<strong>11</strong> meeting. The Council approved the ATC budget to include acontinuation of the $20,000 grant for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>. The Council was also to review and approvethe grantees for the 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong> school year at the September, 20<strong>11</strong> meeting.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):NoneRecommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOther


The Steering Committee reviewed the ATC plan at its April 29, 20<strong>11</strong> meeting. Therecommendation of Steering is to continue the grant process for the same amount ($20,000).The committee also recommended that Year 1 grantees continue to be funded for smalleramounts and Year 2 grantees (new districts) receive a larger amount. Steering left thedecision of exact amounts to the review and selection committee to recommend in September,20<strong>11</strong> when the results are reviewed. Steering recommended approval of the granteespresented to the Council on September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong>.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Assistive Technology and Augmentative Communication Pilot Project Process2. Assistive Technology and Augmentative Communication Pilot Project Application


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 6dSubject: Consider Approval of New Membersto the Finance CommitteeActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):Due to changes in employment, the Finance Committee has the following vacancies whichneed to be filled and require approval by the Superintendents' Council:• Two (2) Business Manager representatives to replace Steve Bolman and Wade Roach;• One (1) Special Education Director representative to replace John Laughlin;• One (1) Superintendent representative to replace Casey D'Angelo; and• One (1) Charter School LEA representative (new position, effective 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong>).In accordance with the Local Plan, membership on the Finance Committee is approved by theSuperintendents' Council with representatives selected as follows:• District Business Managers from DBUG are responsible for selecting Business Managers;• Steering Committee is responsible for selecting Special Education Directors;• The Superintendents' Council is responsible for selecting Superintendents; and• The Charter LEAs are responsible for selecting a Charter School Administrator.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:The Superintendents' Council approves Finance Committee replacement members selected byDBug, the Steering Committee and Charter LEAs as well as appointing a memberSuperintendent.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):NoneRecommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOther


The Council needs to select one superintendent to fill the superintendent vacancy.In addition, the Council needs to approve:• The Steering Committee's appointment of Diane Ashton;• D Bug's appointment of Joe Pandolfo and Anne Baron; and• The Charter LEAs' appointment of Robert Tavonatti.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Finance Committee Voting Membership


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 6eSubject: Consider Approval of New Member tothe Steering CommitteeActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):Due to a change in employment, a vacancy was created on the Steering Committee for AreaIII (Cotati-Rohnert Park). Cotati-Rohnert Park has appointed Diane Ashton as the interimSpecial Education Director, replacing John Laughlin on the Steering Committee.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:The Superintendents' Council approves Steering Committee appointments.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):NoneRecommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance CommitteeOtherThe Steering Committee confirmed the appointment of Diane Ashton to serve as the interimSpecial Education Director for Area III (Cotati-Rohnert Park).Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Steering Committee Voting Membership


SONOMA COUNTY <strong>SELPA</strong>SUPERINTENDENTS' COUNCILDate: September <strong>12</strong>, 20<strong>11</strong> <strong>Agenda</strong> Item # 5eSubject: Autism Authorization UpdateActionInformation/DiscussionPublic HearingSummary of Key Issue(s):In accordance with guidelines from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing,special education teachers who are not authorized to instruct students with autism, based ontheir credential skill set, must obtain authorization from an accredited program by October2013. While other disabling conditions will also require additional authorizations, dependingon the credential of the teacher, the attention to the autism authorization is acute due to thehigh rate of identification and intensive service needs of those students.One of the key issues is how to assist teachers in obtaining this authorization by the deadlinewith the least burdensome pathway at the lowest cost. The Council will receive an update onthe latest recommendations from the Steering Committee.Summary of Previous Superintendents' Council Discussion & Action:During the 20<strong>09</strong>-10 school year, the <strong>Sonoma</strong> <strong>County</strong> Office of Education pursued an option tobe a provider of the autism authorization. That bid was unsuccessful. However, in the budgetsapproved by the Superintendents' Council on May 2, 20<strong>11</strong>, the Staff Development fundspreviously allocated to districts and <strong>SELPA</strong> funds previously allocated to training in the areaof autism were set aside for teacher reimbursement of costs. The Steering Committeerecommended this allocation of funds, but were scheduled to determine the specificmethodology at the next Steering meeting in August 20<strong>11</strong>.Fiscal Analysis (as appropriate):Refer to attachment.Recommendations:<strong>SELPA</strong> DirectorSteering CommitteeFinance Committee


OtherOn August 19, 20<strong>11</strong>, the Steering Committee approved a plan to support teachers who will berequried to obtain this authorization. Written guidance and a final arrangement with ProjectOptimal is still to be completed. In summary, SCOE Human Resources compiled a listing ofteachers by district who need the authorization. Teachers will send a Letter of Intent to the<strong>SELPA</strong>; the <strong>SELPA</strong> will use Staff Development funds for 20<strong>11</strong>-<strong>12</strong> plus "front" the funds for20<strong>12</strong>-13 and provide scholarships to those teachers who complete their authorization withCCTC by October 2013. The amount per teacher will be based on the number of teacherswho complete their program. <strong>SELPA</strong> will send funds to the teachers upon receipt ofdocumentation of payment and a notice of completion from CCTC. Teachers may use anyvendor but it is hoped that <strong>SELPA</strong> could obtain a rate of $700 per teacher (if at least 100teachers enroll) with a scholarship amount of $200.Attachment(s) to this <strong>Agenda</strong> Item:1. Autism Authorization Certification Revenue Distribution

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!