A presentation on the IMHOTEP program was made by teachers Mark Wessels and Ray Spottsville. The program's purpose is to involve more African American students in math. Eight years ago, Wessels read an article by a Berkeley professor which developed into a plan for IMHOTEP. Susie Kaeser of Reaching Heights wrote the first grant proposal for the program, which was initially funded by BP. IMHOTEP involves a 5-week summer program for 7-8-9 graders and tutorials held at Heights Main Library during the school year. Major funders include: The Cleveland Foundation, The George Gund Foundation, Progressive Insurance, The Martha Holden Jennings Foundation, BP America, Reaching Heights, and the Board of Education. Plaques were presented to major funders, Wessels, Spottsville, and Susie Kaeser. In turn, Mr. Spottsville presented the BEST award to the Board.

Andy Sinclair of Coventry PEACE made a presentation on new plans for the corner at Euclid Heights Boulevard and Coventry Roads with landscape architect Jim McKnight. PEACE built a community playground 5 years ago, and has recently brought together a coalition of Coventry merchants, the Coventry Neighbors Association, the City of Cleveland Heights, the Board of Education, and the Library to improve the area. The catalyst was the massive sewer project. They intend to build a small (100? x 109?) soccer field. The total budget is $110,000, of which 1/3 has been promised.

Dr. Masem reported on the current status of the Elementary Report Cards. At the meeting of 9/14/98, the Board had approved the proposed Elementary Report Cards as a pilot and a work in progress. Since that meeting, some of the Board have had second thoughts; some staff had reservations; and the PTA expressed opposition. Masem and Pam Smith decided to go back to the committee. The committee made the following recommendations: to defer the new report card; to use the current grade 4-5 report card for grade 3 as well; and to report grades four times a year for grades 3-4-5. This would result in letter grades being given for the first time in grades 3, as well as adding an additional report for the third graders. The third grade teachers were polled, and agreed with the terms 20-6. The next committee meeting will be November 5. New members will include parents, K-2 teachers, and special ed. teachers. The agenda will include discussion of benchmarks to be used in conferences as well as a philosophical discussion of retention and promotion.