charles_chadweH@roundrockisd.

org
From: Sent: To: Kyle Swartz Sunday, December 01, 2013 1034 PM Supenntendent_RRIS D@roundrockisd.org; daudio_cruz@roundrockisd org; charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org; diane_cox@ roundrockisd.org; Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org; Catherine_Hanna@roundrockisd.org; paul_tisch(o> roundrockisd.org; paulinejawto) roundrockisd.org Kyle Swartz SHAC Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting SHAC Vice Chair Letter to Trustees and Superintendent. 12.1.2103 pdf

Cc: Subject: Attachments:

December 1,2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chadwell, Diane Cox, Terri Romere, Catherine Hanna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Swartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12, 2013. I was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillvvell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report.
(lull letter attached)

December I. 2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chadwell. Diane Cox, Terri Romere, Catherine Hanna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law:

My name is Kyle Swartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC). as elected on November 12. 2013. I was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report. Accomplishments First, I appreciated Mr. Stillwell listing SHAC accomplishments. Through much work and cooperation, the SHAC has: Made recommendations related to the nutrition program, recess standards and the counseling curriculum. Created governance documents (By-I.aws and Standing Rules) with the help of the Staff Facilitator, Ramiro Flores. Attempted to further diversify the membership to meet district social-economic classifications, as per Texas Education Code. The Ad-Hoc Nomination Committee, pursuant to Article 7, Section 3, made these efforts. Established Standing and Ad-Hoc committee structure. Worked with Mr. Flores, to make SHAC By-Laws, meeting packets and related meeting agendas and minutes easy-to-find. They are now on a designated page on the district Web Site, pursuant to Article 8 Section I of the By-Laws.

It is important to note the contrast to where the District was one year ago. The previous organization, referred to as a "SI IAC," was formed outside of fexas Education Code and did not offer a level of governance and transparency to the community. As an example, the only way I was able to tmd meeting minutes was to submit a public records request through the District. The organi/ation had no B y - I . a w s that I could t m d . (jreat progress has been made. As it Relates to the .November .Meeting I he N o v e m b e r m e e t i n g report, provided to the Inistees tailed to reveal key issues. \ v h i c h include: , i I hrouuhtuit. and at the ^'iiclusion. ol Ms. Susan Ni\\ Assistant Director ot Athletics, presentation n he current sexual education curriculum used m the District, she provided personal and collective

2) 3)

4)

5) 6)

7)

8)

endorsement from her department of the current curriculum. Ms. Nix also stated she was receiving calls from the Georgetown LSD i n q u i r i n g of the success the district is experiencing under its current curriculum. Ms. Nix stated she was not having "parents banging at her door" wanting changes to the current curriculum. The SHAC identified and discussed specific areas of concern w i t h Ms. Nix, to improve current curriculum. This related to the consistency of the execution, delivery of content, and the district's OptOut process. The student pregnancy rate, provided by Nefertari Mundy, Director of Student Support, in her report to the SHAC in the May 2013 meeting, was discussed as being 0.1% of the current student population. The rate makes a continuing downward trend (5 1 pregnancies in student population of approximately 42,000). As part of the meeting, SHAC members received a multi-page packet. It contained several questions and comments from SHAC members, related to the current sexual education curriculum. At the conclusion of the meeting, a consensus was met that would have the group, either with a smaller team, in the Human Growth and Development Standing Committee, or with the entire SHAC in the January Meeting, develop a score card / criteria set. It would be created using SHAC member comments contained in the packet outlined above in #5 as a necessary first step to identify and define areas to evaluate other curriculum and/or improve existing curriculum. The Executive committee, pursuant to Article 6 Section 2 of the By-Laws, would meet to establish the January agenda and, with the Assistance of Mr. Flores, develop a recommendation for video recording further SHAC meetings. The SHAC reviewed and approved standing rules, as prepared by the Ad Hoc By-Law committee with the cooperation of Mr. Flores, as a recommendation from Trustee President on April 18, 2013.

The meeting minutes from the November meeting, presented to SHAC members for approval, will reflect the above. As it Relates to the January Agenda In the Board proceedings, many Trustees were concerned that a January agenda was not set. However, pursuant to: Article 6 Section 2 of the By-Laws, the Chairperson is to "Work directly with the Executive Committee and the Staff Facilitator to compile agendas for all meetings of the SHAC." Article 7 Section 1 of the B-Laws defines the Executive committee as "The Executive Committee shall consist of the elected officers. The Staff Facilitator will participate with the Executive Committee as a non-voting member."

Thus, w h i l e ideas can be gathered from SHAC members, it's not likely the Executive Committee can set the next meeting's final agenda at the end of the preceding meeting. Committed to my Executive Committee responsibility, I am read) to meet at tirst notice to accomplish this. As it Relates to "Personal Attacks" Trustees used the phrase "personal attacks" repeatedly. I thank Mr. Stillwell for correcting a Trustee after the Trustee stated multiple times that there was personal attached due to "ethnicity." Mr. S t i l l w e l l clearly stated this wa.siit happening. Some additional context: He: lexas freedom Network: I asked Mr. S t i l l w e l l a question about h i s a f f i l i a t i o n w i t h the Texas ; reedom Network. I his i n f o r m a t i o n is in the p u b l i c domain on his campaign web -.ite that Mr. S t i l l w e l l ised to run lor public ollice. Mr. S t i l l w e l l accurately relaved main parts of m> question, hut f a i l e d to

share the significance of my question \vas related to Article 4 Section 4, Conflict of Interest, in the Byl.a\vs. Mr. Stillwell revealed that he took no campaign contributions from the Texas Freedom Network. The matter was resolved. Questioning of Members Seeking Elected Office Positions: The Standing Rules approved by SHAC members, allow for this process. The information related to "personal attacks" that Mr. Stillwell provided, were limited to questioning of candidates in regards to their qualification to run for an elected officer position. Trustees may have been incorrectly led to believe these questions were being asked of all SHAC participants. Questioning of Vice-Chair Candidate: O Mr. Stillwell indicated the candidate made a comment regarding the current sexual education provider in an "outside meeting." This "outside meeting" was a SHAC Human Growth and Development Standing Committee meeting held in October, in which the candidate introduced the issue of the religious affiliation of the provider, and brought up the issue of abortion. O Mr. Stillwell indicated the Vice-Chair candidate was asked about their stance on abortion. This is false. The question was, if the candidate felt that a Christian curriculum provider is unacceptable, would the candidate feel there would be a conflict of interest if an abortion provider, or affiliate, provided human sexuality curriculum or instruction. O I respectfully disagree with the assertion that leadership on the previous "SHAC" is not a relevant point of consideration to evaluate the qualification and appropriateness for that person to hold an Officer position on the current SHAC. The legitimate inquiry was simply on how the candidate used their obvious parliamentarian expertise, and previous committee experience, to bear on their contributions and involvement in the previous SHAC. When someone is running for a position or having a job interview, it makes sense to ask: "How did you apply your expertise or "know-how" in a similar, previous position?" To construe this question as a "personal attack," is a misrepresentation. A SHAC member left the SHAC November meeting during the discussion of ideas for the January agenda, while standing up and stating they were Jewish and did not like the fact that the current sexual education provider was Christian. Prior to this situation, SHAC member's religious affiliations have never been a topic at the SHAC, nor were SHAC members ever asked about their religious beliefs by any other SHAC members.

Conclusion: In closing, I want to congratulate you for appointing a truly diverse SHAC. We've worked hard to build a solid, procedural structure from which to approach school health related questions in a deliberate, rational manner going forward. Respectfully,

Kyle Swart/ Vice-Chair School I lealth Advisory Council

12/9/13

RounaRocklSD Mail- Cpen Records Request

ROUND ROCK OOO

Open Records Request

Claudio Cruz <claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org> To: Patty Aguilera <patty_aguilera@roundrockisd.org> Mon, Dec 9, 2013 at 8:37 AM

Forwarded conversation
Subject: SHAC Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

From: Kyle Swartz Date: Sun, Dec 1, 2013 at 10:34 PM To: "Supermtendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org" <Supenntendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org>, "claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org" <claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org>, "charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org" <charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org>, "diane_cox@roundrockisd.org" <diane_cox@roundrockisd.org>, "Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org" <Tern_Romere@roundrockisd.org>, "CatherineJHanna@roundrockisd.org" <Catherine_Hanna@roundrockisd.org>, "pauljisch@roundrockisd.org" <paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org>, "paulme_law@roundrockisd.org" <paulinejaw@roundrockisd.org> Cc: Kyle Swartz OpHH^aSpMMqw

December 1,2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chad we 11, Diane Cox, Terri Roniere, Catherine Manna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Swartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12, 2013. I was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt StilKvell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. ["he first time the remainder of the Kxccutive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to ihe Trustees. Hie other members of the Hxecutive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. i has. I thank vou in advance lor review ing the additional material bebw. to supplement items Iclt from the report.
i.ll letter -attached)
tips //inail.google.co(7Vmail/u/(y?u:s2S(IP68c8405e94&view=pl&search=iiitX5rfithK142d7cab1ad2ftl65 i'2

RoundRocklSD Mail - Open Records Request

From Catherine Hanna Date: Tue. Dec 3, 2013 at 2.12 PM To. Kyle Swartz

Cc: "SupenntendentJ3RISD@roundrockisd.org" <SupermtendentJ3RISD@roundrockisd.org>, "claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org" <claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org>, "charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org"

<charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org>, "diane_cox(g>roundrockisd.org" <diane_cox@roundrockisd.org>, "Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org" <TerriJ3omere@roundrockisd.org>, "Cathenne_Hanna@roundrockisd.org" <CathermeJHanna@roundrockisd.org>, "paul_tisch@roundrockisd,org" <paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org>, "pauline_law@roundrockisd.org" <paulinejaw@roundrockisd.org>, JoyLynn Occhiuzzi <JoyLynn__Occhiuzzi@ roundrockisd.org>, SM Flores <sm_flores@roundrockisd.org>

Dear Mr. SwartzOn behalf of the Round Rock ISO Board of Trustees, I am writing to acknowledge receipt of your email regarding the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC).. Pursuant to Board policy, I have included Dr. Flores on this response so that he will be aware of your concerns. I have also copied JoyLynn Occhiuzzi, RRISD's Executive Director of Community Relations, on this response because she tracks issues concerning the District. Round Rock ISO Board members share your interest in the work of the SHAC and the Board appreciates your commitment to the work of this organization. Round Rock ISO Board members respect the right of employees, parents and community stakeholders to make comments and suggestions that affect Round Rock ISO. Very truly yours, Catherine L. Hanna Round Rock ISO Board President

4^\C Vice Chair Letter to Trustees and Superintendent. 12.1.2103.pdf '' 201K

"ps //irail i

December 1.2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chadwell, Diane Cox, Terri Romere, Catherine Manna, Paul Tiseh and Pauline Law:

My name is Kyle Swart/. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12, 2013. I was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report. Accomplish men fs First, I appreciated Mr. Stillwell listing SHAC accomplishments. Through much work and cooperation, the SHAC has: Made recommendations related to the nutrition program, recess standards and the counseling curriculum. Created governance documents (By-I.aws and Standing Rules) with the help of the StalT Facilitator, Ramiro Flores. Attempted to further diversify the membership to meet district social-economic classifications, as per Texas Education Code. The Ad-Hoc Nomination Committee, pursuant to Article 7, Section 3, made these efforts. Established Standing and Ad-Hoc committee structure. Worked with Mr. Flores, to make SHAC By-Laws, meeting packets and related meeting agendas and minutes easy-to-find. They are now on a designated page on the district Web Site, pursuant to Article 8 Section 1 of the By-Laws.

It is important to note the contrast to where the District was one year ago. The previous organi/ation. referred to as a "SHAC," was formed outside of Texas Education Code and did not offer a level of governance and transparency to the community. As an example, the only way I was able to find meeting minutes was to submit a public records request through the District. I he organi/ation had no B \ - L a w s that I could llnd. Great progress has been made. As it Relates to the November Vk-etinu ! he November meeting report, provided to the Trustees tailed to reveal key issues, which include:
1

i I hroughout. and at ihe conclusion, of Ms. Susan Nix's, \ssistant Director o| Athletics, presentation on he current ^exual education curriculum used in (he District, she provided personal and collective

2) 3)

4)

5) 6)

7)

8)

endorsement from her department of the current curriculum. Ms. Nix also stated she \vas receiving calls from the Georgetown ISO inquiring of the success the district is experiencing under its current curriculum. Ms. Nix stated she was not having "parents banging at her door" wanting changes to the current curriculum. The SHAC identified and discussed specific areas of concern with Ms. Nix, to improve current curriculum. This related to the consistency of the execution, delivery of content, and the district's OptOut process. The student pregnancy rate, provided by Nefertari Mundy, Director of Student Support, in her report to the SHAC in the May 2013 meeting, was discussed as being 0.1% of the current student population. The rate makes a continuing downward trend (51 pregnancies in student population of approximately 42,000). As part of the meeting, SHAC members received a multi-page packet. It contained several questions and comments from SHAC members, related to the current sexual education curriculum. At the conclusion of the meeting, a consensus was met that would have the group, either with a smaller team, in the Human Growth and Development Standing Committee, or with the entire SHAC in the January Meeting, develop a score card / criteria set. It would be created using SHAC member comments contained in the packet outlined above in #5 as a necessary first step to identify and define areas to evaluate other curriculum and/or improve existing curriculum. The Executive committee, pursuant to Article 6 Section 2 of the By-Laws, would meet to establish the January agenda and, with the Assistance of Mr. Flores, develop a recommendation for video recording further SHAC meetings. The SHAC reviewed and approved standing rules, as prepared by the Ad Hoc By-Law committee with the cooperation of Mr. Flores, as a recommendation from Trustee President on April 18, 2013.

The meeting minutes from the November meeting, presented to SHAC members for approval, will reflect the above. As it Relates to the January Agenda In the Board proceedings, many Trustees were concerned that a January agenda was not set. However, pursuant to: Article 6 Section 2 of the By-Laws, the Chairperson is to "Work directly with the Executive Committee and the Staff Facilitator to compile agendas for all meetings of the SHAC." Article 7 Section I of the B-Laws defines the Executive committee as "The Executive Committee shall consist of the elected officers. The Staff Facilitator will participate with the Executive Committee as a non-voting member."

Thus, while ideas can be gathered from SHAC members, it's not likely the Executive Committee can set the next meeting's final agenda at the end of the preceding meeting. Committed to my Executive Committee responsibility, I am ready to meet at first notice to accomplish this. As it Relates to "Personal Attacks" I rustees u.sed the phrase "personal attacks" repeatedly. I thank Mr. Stillwell for correcting a Trustee after the Trustee stated multiple times that there was personal attached due to "ethnicity." Mr. Stillwell clearly stated this \ain't happening. Sonic additional context: tfe: Icxas l-reedom \etwork: I asked Mr Stillwell a question about his aifiiiation w i t h the Texas : ;vedom Network. I his information is in the public domain on his campaign web Mte that Mr. Stillwell ,-ed to run tor public utfice. Mr. Snlhvdl accurately relayed main parts o( m\, hut (ailed to

share the significance of my question was related to Article 4 Section 4, Conflict of Interest, in the ByLaws. Mr. S t i l l w e l l revealed that he took no campaign contributions from the Texas Freedom Network. The matter was resolved. Questioning of Members Seeking Elected Office Positions: The Standing Rules approved by SHAC members, allow for this process. The information related to "personal attacks" that Mr. S t i l l w e l l provided, were limited to questioning of candidates in regards to their qualification to run for an elected officer position. Trustees may have been incorrectly led to believe these questions were being asked of all SHAC participants. Questioning of Vice-Chair Candidate: O Mr. Stillwell indicated the candidate made a comment regarding the current sexual education provider in an "outside meeting." This "outside meeting" was a SHAC Human Growth and Development Standing Committee meeting held in October, in which the candidate introduced the issue of the religious affiliation of the provider, and brought up the issue of abortion. O Mr. Stillwell indicated the Vice-Chair candidate was asked about their stance on abortion. This is false. The question was, if the candidate felt that a Christian curriculum provider is unacceptable, would the candidate feel there would be a conflict of interest if an abortion provider, or affiliate, provided human sexuality curriculum or instruction. O I respectfully disagree with the assertion that leadership on the previous "SHAC" is not a relevant point of consideration to evaluate the qualification and appropriateness for that person to hold an Officer position on the current SHAC. The legitimate inquiry was simply on how the candidate used their obvious parliamentarian expertise, and previous committee experience, to bear on their contributions and involvement in the previous SHAC. When someone is running for a position or having a job interview, it makes sense to ask: "How did you apply your expertise or "know-how" in a similar, previous position?" To construe this question as a "personal attack," is a misrepresentation. A SHAC member left the SHAC November meeting during the discussion of ideas for the January agenda, while standing up and stating they were Jewish and did not like the fact that the current sexual education provider was Christian. Prior to this situation, SHAC member's religious affiliations have never been a topic at the SHAC, nor were SHAC members ever asked about their religious beliefs by any other SHAC members. Conclusion: In closing, I want to congratulate you for appointing a truly diverse SHAC. We've worked hard to build a solid, procedural structure from which to approach school health related questions in a deliberate, rational manner going forward. Respectfully,

K > l e Swart/. Vice-Chair School I lealth Advisory Council

12/10/13

RoundRocklSD Mail- Fwd. SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

ROUND ROCK OOO

Fwd: SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

Catherine Hanna <^mMHVHW> To: Patty Aguilera <patty_aguilera@roundrockisd.org> Open Records Request Forwarded message From: Catherine Hanna Date: Tue, Dec 3, 2013 at 2:12 PM Subject: Re: SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting To: Kyle Swartz ^tMMoMiHMMMMap Cc: "Superintendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org" <Superintendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org>, "claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org" <claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org>, "charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org" <charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org>, "diane_cox@roundrockisd.org" <diane_cox@roundrockisd.org>, "Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org" <Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org>, "Catherine_Hanna@roundrockisd.org" <Catherine_Hanna@roundrockisd.org>, "paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org" <paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org>, "pauline_law@roundrockisd.org" <pauline_law@roundrockisd.org>, JoyLynn Occhiuzzi <JoyLynn_Occhiuzzi@ roundrockisd.org>, SM Flores <sm_flores@roundrockisd.org> Tue, Dec 10, 2013 at 1:58 PM

Dear Mr. SwartzOn behalf of the Round Rock ISO Board of Trustees, I am writing to acknowledge receipt of your email regarding the School Health Advisory Council (SHAG).. Pursuant to Board policy, I have included Dr. Flores on this response so that he will be aware of your concerns. I have also copied JoyLynn Occhiuzzi, RRISD's Executive Director of Community Relations, on this response because she tracks issues concerning the District. Round Rock ISO Board members share your interest in the work of the SHAG and the Board appreciates your commitment to the work of this organization. Round Rock ISO Board members respect the right of employees, parents and community stakeholders to make comments and suggestions that affect Round Rock ISO. Very truly yours, Catherine L. Hanna Round Rock ISO Board President

On Sun, Dec 1, 2013 at 10:34 PM, Kyle Swartz wrote:

December 1, 2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District TYustees Claudio Cm/, Charles ChadwelL Diane Cox Terri Romero. Catherine Hanna, Paid TLsch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Swartz. 1 am the Vice-Chair of'the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC). as elected
!'lttps://iriaiLgoogle.corTVmail/u/0/^u=2&l<=68c8405e94&yev^ptfeearch=inboxAtr)=142tJe1684d4bc9c6

1/2

12/10/13

RoundRocklSD Mail - Fwd: SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

on November 12, 2013. I was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt Stilhvell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SI-LAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the ExecutKe Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material bebw, to supplement items left from the report.
(full letter attached)

* *

ps//mail yo<xjlecoirtmail/iVO/7u = ^&iK=4c64(j.^94<4yt.'W=pt&searcri=ir]Doxi4tfi=M^de]684cl4bc<Jc6

j/2

'2/4/13

RounORocKISD Mail- OPEN RECORD REQUEST Fwd: SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse (o Nc\efnbef 21 Trustee Meeting

$ ROUND ROCK OOO

OPEN RECORD REQUEST Fwd: SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting
Diane Cox <diane_cox@roundrockisd.org> To: Patty Aguilera <patty_aguilera@roundrockisd.org> Wed, Dec 4, 2013 at 7:01 AM

Forwarded message From: Kyle Swartz Date: Sunday, December 1, 2013 Subject: SHAG Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting To: "Supenntendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org" <Superintendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org>, "claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org" <claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org>, "charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org" <charles_chadwell@roundrockisd.org>, "diane_cox@roundrockisd.org" <diane_cox@roundrockisd.org>, "Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org" <Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org>, "Cathenne_Hanna@roundrockisd.org" <Catherine_Hanna@roundrockisd.org>, "paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org" <paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org>, "pauline_law@roundrockisd.org" <pauline_law@roundrockisd.org>

December 1, 2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudb Cruz, Charles Chadwell, Diane Cox, Terri Romere, Catherine Manna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Swartz. 1 am the Vice-Chair of'the School Health .Advisory Council (SI IAC), as elected on November 12, 2013. I was appointed to the Sf-IAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SI IAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SI IAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report lie provided to the Board Of Trustees the ev'ening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold, fie asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. ITie lirst time the remainder of (lie Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the frustees. 1 he other members of the Bxeeutive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor \vere they invited to attend the meeting. 11ms. I thank vou in advance lor reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items lelt Irom the report. 'uil letter .Jtracned)
1

tips //mail ij(Kxjlexx)iri/mail/iV(V7ui = /;Sik=ti8ca4C5e94Ayf<w=piAseafcri=inbox44lh=14t'b<Jb328C)4!Je/')d

I2

12/4/13

RouxjRocKISD Mail- OPEN RECORD REQUEST F'.vd: SHAC Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

,> SHAC Vice Chair Letter to Trustees and Superintendent. 12.1.2103.pdf

"' 201K

tips //inail yixxjle.coiTVin,nl/ii/0/'-'ui = ^Sik='i8crt-W5ti>J4i4yi.v/=|j|4seafch=int)OASith= 14^txibJ28049e/5d

Friday, December 6, 2013 at 10:35:13 AM Central Standard Time Subject: Re: SHAC Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting Date: From: To: Kyle, Thank you for bringing this to our attention. This is unacceptable and I will follow-up with Dr. Flores. Thanks again, Pauline Law Monday, December 2, 2013 at 9:12:40 AM Central Standard Time RRISD Trustee Law Kyle Swartz

On Dec 1, 2013, at 10:34 PM, Kyle Swartz <Mp4iMaHMM^> wrote:

December 1.2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chadwell, Diane Cox, Terri Romere, Catherine Manna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: Vly name is Kyle Swart/. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12. 2013. I was appointed to the SI IAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SIIAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Hoard Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first lime Ihe remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus. I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report. (full letter utiached) <SHAC Vice Chair Letter to Trustees and Superintendent. I2.1.2103.pdf>

1 of 1

Friday, December 6,2013 at 10:26:39 AM Central Standard Time Subject: SHAC Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting Date: From: To: Sunday, December 1, 2013 at 10:34:15 PM Central Standard Time Kyle Swartz Superintendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org, claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org, charles_chadwell(cproundrockisd.org, diane_cox@roundrockisd.org, Terri_Romere@roundrockisd.org, Catherine_Hanna@roundrockisd.org, paul_t1sch@roundrockisd.org, paulinejaw@roundrockisd.org Kyle Swartz

CC:

December 1,2013 Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chadwell, Diane Cox, Tern Romere, Catherine Hanna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Swartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12, 2013.1 was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It staring, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report, (full letter attached)

P-ige 1 of 1

December 1,2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz, Charles Chadwell, Diane Cox, Terri Romere, Catherine Hanna, Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Swartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12, 2013.1 was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday, November 22, 2013, SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting was on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report. Accomplishments First, I appreciated Mr. Stillwell listing SHAC accomplishments. Through much work and cooperation, the SHAC has: Made recommendations related to the nutrition program, recess standards and the counseling curriculum. Created governance documents (By-Laws and Standing Rules) with the help of the Staff Facilitator, Ramiro Flores. Attempted to further diversify the membership to meet district social-economic classifications, as per Texas Education Code. The Ad-Hoc Nomination Committee, pursuant to Article 7, Section 3, made these efforts. Established Standing and Ad-Hoc committee structure. Worked with Mr. Flores, to make SHAC By-Laws, meeting packets and related meeting agendas and minutes easy-to-find They are now on a designated page on the district Web Site, pursuant to Article 8 Section 1 of the By-Laws. It is important to note the contrast to where the District was one year ago. The previous organization, referred to as a "SHAC," was formed outside of Texas Education Code and did not offer a level of governance and transparency to the community. As an example, the only way I was able to find meeting minutes was to submit a public records request through the District. The organization had no By-Laws that I could find. Great progress has been made. As it Relates to the November Meeting The November meeting report, provided to the Trustees failed to reveal key issues, which include: 1) Throughout, and at the conclusion, of Ms. Susan Nix's, Assistant Director of Athletics, presentation on the current sexual education curriculum used in the District, she provided personal and collective

2) 3) 4)

5) 6)

7) 8)

endorsement from her department of the current curriculum. Ms. Nix also stated she was receiving calls from the Georgetown ISO inquiring of the success the district is experiencing under its current curriculum. Ms. Nix stated she was not having "parents banging at her door" wanting changes to the current curriculum. The SHAC identified and discussed specific areas of concern with Ms. Nix, to improve current curriculum. This related to the consistency of the execution, delivery of content, and the district's OptOut process. The student pregnancy rate, provided by Nefertari Mundy, Director of Student Support, in her report to the SHAC in the May 2013 meeting, was discussed as being 0.1% of the current student population. The rate makes a continuing downward trend (51 pregnancies in student population of approximately 42,000). As part of the meeting, SHAC members received a multi-page packet. It contained several questions and comments from SHAC members, related to the current sexual education curriculum. At the conclusion of the meeting, a consensus was met that would have the group, either with a smaller team, in the Human Growth and Development Standing Committee, or with the entire SHAC in the January Meeting, develop a score card / criteria set. It would be created using SHAC member comments contained in the packet outlined above in #5 as a necessary first step to identify and define areas to evaluate other curriculum and/or improve existing curriculum. The Executive committee, pursuant to Article 6 Section 2 of the By-Laws, would meet to establish the January agenda and, with the Assistance of Mr. Flores, develop a recommendation for video recording further SHAC meetings. The SHAC reviewed and approved standing rules, as prepared by the Ad Hoc By-Law committee with the cooperation of Mr. Flores, as a recommendation from Trustee President on April 18, 2013.

The meeting minutes from the November meeting, presented to SHAC members for approval, will reflect the above. As it Relates to the January Agenda In the Board proceedings, many Trustees were concerned that a January agenda was not set. However, pursuant to: Article 6 Section 2 of the By-Laws, the Chairperson is to "Work directly with the Executive Committee and the Staff Facilitator to compile agendas for all meetings of the SHAC." Article 7 Section 1 of the B-Laws defines the Executive committee as "The Executive Committee shall consist of the elected officers. The Staff Facilitator will participate with the Executive Committee as a non-voting member."

Thus, while ideas can be gathered from SHAC members, it's not likely the Executive Committee can set the next meeting's final agenda at the end of the preceding meeting. Committed to my Executive Committee responsibility, I am ready to meet at first notice to accomplish this. As it Relates to "Personal Attacks" Trustees used the phrase "personal attacks" repeatedly. 1 thank Mr. Stillwell for correcting a Trustee after the Trustee stated multiple times that there was personal attached due to "ethnicity." Mr. Stillwell clearly stated this wasn't happening. Some additional context: Re: Texas Freedom Network: I asked Mr. Stillwell a question about his affiliation with the Texas Freedom Network. This information is in the public domain on his campaign web site that Mr. Stillwell used to run for public office. Mr. Stillwell accurately relayed many parts of my question, but failed to

share the significance of my question was related to Article 4 Section 4, Conflict of Interest, in the ByLaws. Mr. Stillwell revealed that he took no campaign contributions from the Texas Freedom Network. The matter was resolved. Questioning of Members Seeking Elected Office Positions: The Standing Rules approved by SHAC members, allow for this process. The information related to "personal attacks" that Mr. Stillwell provided, were limited to questioning of candidates in regards to their qualification to run for an elected officer position. Trustees may have been incorrectly led to believe these questions were being asked of all SHAC participants. Questioning of Vice-Chair Candidate: o Mr. Stillwell indicated the candidate made a comment regarding the current sexual education provider in an "outside meeting." This "outside meeting" was a SHAC Human Growth and Development Standing Committee meeting held in October, in which the candidate introduced the issue of the religious affiliation of the provider, and brought up the issue of abortion. O Mr. Stillwell indicated the Vice-Chair candidate was asked about their stance on abortion. This is false. The question was, if the candidate felt that a Christian curriculum provider is unacceptable, would the candidate feel there would be a conflict of interest if an abortion provider, or affiliate, provided human sexuality curriculum or instruction. O I respectfully disagree with the assertion that leadership on the previous "SHAC" is not a relevant point of consideration to evaluate the qualification and appropriateness for that person to hold an Officer position on the current SHAC. The legitimate inquiry was simply on how the candidate used their obvious parliamentarian expertise, and previous committee experience, to bear on their contributions and involvement in the previous SHAC. When someone is running for a position or having a job interview, it makes sense to ask: "How did you apply your expertise or "know-how" in a similar, previous position?" To construe this question as a "personal attack," is a misrepresentation. A SHAC member left the SHAC November meeting during the discussion of ideas for the January agenda, while standing up and stating they were Jewish and did not like the fact that the current sexual education provider was Christian. Prior to this situation, SHAC member's religious affiliations have never been a topic at the SHAC, nor were SHAC members ever asked about their religious beliefs by any other SHAC members. Conclusion; In closing, I want to congratulate you for appointing a truly diverse SHAC. We've worked hard to build a solid, procedural structure from which to approach school health related questions in a deliberate, rational manner going forward. Respectfully,

Kyle Swartz Vice-Chair School Health Advisory Council

Cmiail - SHAC' Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

Page I of

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' message Kyle Swartz < *VHMmpMMM>

Terri Romere

SHAC Vice Chair Letter In Reponse to November 21 Trustee Meeting

Sun. Dec 1, 2013 at 10 34 PM

Reply-To Kyle Swartz ^pHMMMMMMMMah*

To: "Superintendent_RRISD@roundrockisd org" <Superintendent_RRISD@roundrockisd.org>. "claudio_cruz@roundrockisd.org" <claudio_cruz@roundrockisd org>, "charles_chadvvell@roundrockisd org" <charles_chadwell@roundrockisd org>. "diane_cox@roundrockisd org" <diane_cox@roundrockisd.org>. "Tern_Romere@roundrockisd,org" <Tern_Romere@roundrockisd org>, "Cathenne_Hanna@roundrockisd.org" <Cathenne_Hanna@roundrockisd.org>. "paul_tisch@roundrockisd.org" <paul_tisch@roundrockisd,org>, "paulmejaw@roundrockisd.org" <pauline_law@roundrockisd.org>

December I . 2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees Claudio Cruz. Charles Chadwell. Diane Cox. Terri Romere. Catherine Hanna. Paul Tisch and Pauline Law: My name is Kyle Svvartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC). as elected on November 12. 2013. I was appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday. November 22, 2013. SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating, that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting \vas on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the txecutive Committee heard of the report, was when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the H.xecutive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting.
Thus. I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report.
(full 'etter attached) -.., SHAC Vice Chair Letter to Trustees and Superintendent. 12.1.2103.pdf
' 201K

hups:, mail.uoogle.com mail/7w=2amp:ik-233443%7a&amp:vievv-pt&amp:search -inho.\itamp:tlr 14... I ] " 2013

December I. 2013

Dear Round Rock Independent School District School Superintendent Dr. Steve Flores and School District Trustees t'laudio Cruz. Charles Chadwell. Diane Cox. Terri Romere. Catherine Manna. Paul Tisch and Pauline Law:

My name is K>le Swartz. I am the Vice-Chair of the School Health Advisory Council (SHAC), as elected on November 12. 2013. I \vas appointed to the SHAC in January 2013. On Friday. November 22. 2013. SHAC Chairperson Matt Stillwell sent all SHAC members a note. It stating. that in response to a report he provided to the Board Of Trustees the evening before, the January SHAC meeting uas on hold. He asked that we watch the video recording of the report and Trustee proceedings. The first time the remainder of the Executive Committee heard of the report, uas when it was presented to the Trustees. The other members of the Executive Committee were not asked to help prepare the report, nor were they invited to attend the meeting. Thus, I thank you in advance for reviewing the additional material below, to supplement items left from the report. Accomplishments First. I appreciated Mr. Stillwell listing SHAC accomplishments. Through much work and cooperation, the SHAC has: Made recommendations related to the nutrition program, recess standards and the counseling curriculum. Created governance documents (By-Laws and Standing Rules) with the help of the Staff Facilitator. Ramiro Flores. Attempted to further diversify the membership to meet district social-economic classifications, as per Texas Education Code. The Ad-Hoc Nomination Committee, pursuant to Article 7. Section 3. made these efforts. Established Standing and Ad-Hoc committee structure. Worked with Mr. Flores. to make SHAC B>-l.aws. meeting packets and related meeting agendas and minutes easy-to-find. They are now on a designated page on the district Web Site, pursuant to Article X Section I of the By-Laws.

It is important to note the contrast to where the District uas one year ago. The previous oruani/ation. referred to -is a "SHAC. ' uas formed outside of Texas Education Code and did not offer a level of governance and transparency to the community. As an example, the only way I was able to find meeting minutes was to luhmit a public records request through the District. The organization had no B y - L a w s that I could find. Great progress has been made. As it Relates to the .November Meeting i he November meeting report, provided to ihe Trustees tailed to reveal ke\, \vhich include: ') I hroughout. and at the conclusion, of Ms. Susan Nix's. \ssistantDirectorof\mlctics. presenr.Himi i j ' 'he current sexual education curriculum Msed m tne District, -.he provided personal ind collective

2) 3)

4)

5) 6)

7)

8)

endorsement from her department o f t h e current curriculum. Ms. Nix also .stated she was receiv ing calls from the Georgetown ISD inquiring of'the success the district is experiencing under its current curriculum. Ms. Nix stated she was not having "parents banging at her door" w a n t i n g changes to the current curriculum. l'he SH.AC identified and discussed specific areas of concern w i t h Ms. N i x . to improve current curriculum. This related to the consistency ofthe execution, delivery of content, and the district's Opt(kit process. The student pregnancv rate, provided by Nefertari Mundy. Director of Student Support, in her report to the SHAC in the May 2013 meeting, was discussed as being 0.1% o f t h e current student population. The rate makes a continuing downward trend (5 I pregnancies in student population of approximately 42.000). As part ofthe meeting. SHAC members received a multi-page packet. It contained several questions and comments from SHAC members, related to the current sexual education curriculum. .At the conclusion ofthe meeting, a consensus was met that would have the group, either with a smaller team, in the Human Growth and Development Standing Committee, or with the entire SHAC in the January Meeting, develop a score card / criteria set. It would be created using SHAC member comments contained in the packet outlined above in #5 as a necessary first step to identify and define areas to evaluate other curriculum and/or improve existing curriculum. The F.xecutive committee, pursuant to Article 6 Section 2 ofthe By-Laws, would meet to establish the January agenda and. with the Assistance of Mr. Flores. develop a recommendation for video recording further SHAC meetings. The SI iAC reviewed and approved standing rules, as prepared by the Ad Hoc B v - L a w committee w i t h the cooperation of Mr. Flores. as a recommendation from Trustee President on April 18. 201.1.

The meeting minutes from the November meeting, presented to SHAC members for approval, w i l l reflect the above. A.s it Relates to the January Agenda In the Board proceedings, many Trustees were concerned that a January agenda was not set. However, pursuant to: Article 6 Section 2 o f t h e By-Laws, the Chairperson is to "Work directly w i t h the E x e c u t i v e Committee and the Staff Facilitator to compile agendas for all meetings o f t h e SHAC." .Article 7 Section 1 o f t h e B-l.aws defines the Executive committee as "The E x e c u t i v e Committee shall consist o f t h e elected officers. The Stall" Facilitator will participate w i t h the I'-xecutive Committee as a non-voting member."

Thus, w h i l e ideas can be gathered from SHAC members, it's not likely the E x e c u t i v e Committee can set the n e x t meeting's f i n a l agenda at the end o f t h e preceding meeting. Committed to mv L.xecutivc C o m m i t t e e responsibility. I ,im readv u > meet at first notice to accomplish this.

\ it Uclatcs ID 'Tcrsmial Attacks"

I mstees -ised the phrase "personal attacks" repeatedly I r|i:ink Mr. S t i l l u e l l lor eorreclitvj j Triisiec a l t e r the Trustee stated m u l t i p l e times that there was personal attached due to " c t l i n i c i t v . " Mr. M i l l w e l l clearlv -laied mis w a s n ' t happening. Some additional context: I'.-xas Freedom N e t w o r k : I i.sked Mr. S t n l w e l i i q u e s t i o n iPuut his a l t i l i a t i o n w i t h the i e - . i i :x'edom Network ( h i s information is m the public domain on his . ampai<_;n '' eh site '!' it Mr N ! II c ; I ' '''in ' r public office. Mr Mi II'A ell . i c c u r a f e i v re l a v e d mam parts ot' ,m | u c - - t i o n . n u t ' ulcd '

share the significance of my question was related to .Article 4 Section 4. Conflict of Interest, in the B>l.aws. Mr. Stilluell revealed that he took no campaign contributions from the Texas l-'reedom \etuork. The mutter uas resolved. (Questioning of Members Seeking Elected Office Positions: Flie Standing Rules approved by Ml AC members, allow for this process. I he information related to "personal attacks" that Mr. StilKvell provided, were limited to questioning of candidates in regards to their qualification to run for an elected officer position. Trustees may have been incorrectly led to believe these questions were being asked of all SHAC participants. Questioning of Vice-Chair Candidate: O Mr. Stillwell indicated the candidate made a comment regarding the current sexual education provider in an "outside meeting." This ''outside meeting" was a SHAC Human Growth and Development Standing Committee meeting held in October, in svhich the candidate introduced the issue of the religious affiliation of the provider, and brought up the issue of abortion. O Mr. StilKvell indicated the Vice-Chair candidate was asked about their stance on abortion. This is false. The question was. if the candidate felt that a Christian curriculum provider is unacceptable, would the candidate feel there would be a conflict of interest if an abortion provider, or affiliate, provided human sexuality curriculum or instruction. O I respectfully disagree with the assertion that leadership on the previous "SHAC" is not a relevant point of consideration to evaluate the qualification and appropriateness for that person to hold an Officer position on the current SHAC. The legitimate inquiry was simply on how the candidate used their obvious parliamentarian expertise, and previous committee experience, to bear on their contributions and involvement in the previous SHAC. When someone is running for a position or having a job interview, it makes sense to ask: "How did you apply your expertise or "know-how" in a similar, previous position?" To construe this question as a "personal attack." is a misrepresentation. A SHAC member left the SHAC November meeting during the discussion of ideas for the January agenda, while standing up and stating they were Jewish and did not like the fact that the current sexual education provider was Christian. Prior to this situation. SHAC member's religious affiliations have never been a topic at the SHAC. nor were SHAC members ever asked about their religious beliefs by any other SHAC members. Conclusion: In closing. I want to congratulate you for appointing a truly diverse SHAC. We've worked hard to build a solid, procedural structure from which to approach school health related questions in a deliberate, rational manner going forward. Respectfully.

Ky le Swart/

Vice-Chair ^chool Health Ad\y Council