Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
June 27, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Jed Seward.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jake Snider. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
2022 District ISASP Data
Kristan Hunter, District Learning Leader, provided a presentation on the Iowa Assessment of Student Progress (ISASP). This program was rolled out in the 2018-2019 School Year, and as such, is still relatively new to Iowa schools. These assessments are conducted in the Spring each year for students in grades 3 to 11 in the areas of English Language Arts (ELA), Math, and Science, and fully administered in an on-line format. Science assessments are for grades 5, 8, and 10. The assessments align to the Iowa Core Standards as implemented across the state. The data presented shows only Mid-Prairie Students with ranges of 65% to 78% proficiency in ELA with 6th Grade as the lowest proficiency and 10th grade as the highest. For Math the proficiency ranges between 60% and 76% with 8th and 10th Grades at the lowest level and 4th Grade at the highest level. Science proficiency percentages are 5th Grade at 60%, 8th and 10th Grades at 63%. Year over year trends were shown for both ELA and Math for each grade. Science trends are also shown and are generally positive for most grades, though a few grades show some slight fall off. The Board asked questions about the trends for clarification and understanding.
School Board Policy Review
Superintendent Schneider discussed the School Board Policy Review. He started with Series 100 and reviewed for changes. He then moved into Series 400 for review of changes. This review is in process.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Tabled until the August meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Moved to the end of the meeting
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
A parent provided an update on activities they are doing to make parents and others aware of various initiatives related to communication and bullying mitigation developments.
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of June 13, 2022;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for June 27, 2022;
Open Enrollment Requests
Jessica Kelchen requests Joseph Kelchen (Grade 7) and Owen Kelchen (Grade 4), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Amanda Mize requests Eli Mize (Grade 7) and Norah Mize (Grade 8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Whitney Christensen requests Jessa Christensen (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Shawna Haines requests Aria Haines (Kindergarten) and Jazlyn Haines (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Marion Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Lucinda Newswanger requests Melissa Newswanger (Grade 3) and Nathaniel Newswanger (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
James and Tammi Horak request Louis Horak (Grade 10) attend Highland Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Paige Peiffer, 7th Grade Volleyball Coach, $2,256 per annum;
Professional Partners
Jill Hartsock, MP West, $1,000 per annum;
Emily Zehr, MP West, $1,000 per annum;
Hannah Mougin, MP West, $1,000 per annum;
Kelsey Stumpf, MP West, $1,000 per annum;
Marnett Meier, MP West, $1,000 per annum;
Erin Cavanaugh, MPHS, $1,000 per annum;
Shawna Sieren, MPHS, $1,000 per annum;
Deidra Baker, MPHS, $1,000 per annum;
Stacy Cavey, MP East, $1,000 per annum;
Melissa Gerot, MP East, $1,000 per annum;
Crystal Gingerich, HSAP, $1,000 per annum;
For Open HS English Teacher, MPHS, $1,000 per annum;
For Open MS/HS Counselor, MPHS/MPMS, $1,000 per annum;
For Open MS PE Teacher, MPMS, $1,000 per annum;
For Open 5th Grade Teacher, MPMS, $1,000 per annum;
Resignation of Olivia Tucker, 5th Grade Teacher, $42,368 per annum, effective June 15, 2022;
Resignation of Anna Jabarri, High School English Teacher, $45,980 per annum, effective June 20, 2022;
Resignation of Katie Pruess, High School Middle School Counselor, $45,175 per annum, effective June 15, 2022;
Resignation of Olivia Tucker, 8th Grade Volleyball Coach, $2,132 per annum, effective June 15, 2022;
Resignation of Anna Jabarri, High School Prom Sponsor, $1,096 per annum, effective June 20, 2022;
Fundraising Requests – None Presented for Approval;
2022-2023 Power School Agreement
Approval of the Power School Agreement with Grant Wood AEA for the 2022-2023 School Year.
Jake Snyder seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
Spectator Behavior at Game
Superintendent Schneider introduced this agenda item by updating the Board on a situation in a recent softball game where a parent was asked to leave the premises. The parent asked to address the Board to discuss his side of the story for the evening and discussed his personal situation. He stated his perceptions and understandings about the situation. He asked the Board for explanation. The Board noted the umpire identified him as the person who made the comments and asked for him to be removed. He responded with his perspective on the situation. The Board noted Board Policy 903.4 and Iowa Code 279.8, 279.66, and 716.7. Discussion held by the Board and parent about the Administrator in-charge and whether or not that means an administrator must always be present. The parent also stated that he was not in disagreement of the one game suspension, though he believed the ejection was unwarranted.
Jake Snider moved to uphold the one game suspension for Matt Meisheid. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
2022 2023 IASB Legislative Priorities
Superintendent Schneider and Board President Pickard led a discussion on the Legislative Priories list provide by IASB. Previous year priorities chosen included: Mental Health, Area Education Agencies, Teacher Recruitment and Licensure, Supplemental State Aid, and Bond Issues. The Board Members began to provide their input for the legislative priories to include:
The Board tabled this until the July meeting to allow for further review and discussion.
Finance
$12,780,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds, Series 2022
Resolution Appointing Paying Agent, Bond Registrar, and Transfer Agent Agreement and Authorizing the Execution of Same.
Gabrielle Frederick introduced the Resolution and moved to adopt Resolution Appointing Paying Agent, Bond Registrar, and Transfer Agent Agreement and Authorizing the Execution of Same. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Approval of the Tax Exemption Certificate.
Mary Allred moved to approve that the form of Tax Exemption Certificate be placed on file and approved. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Approval of the Continuing Disclosure Certificate.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve that the form of Continuing Disclosure Certificate be placed on file and approved. Denise Chittick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Resolution Authorizing the Terms of Issuance and Securing the payment of $12,780,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds.
Denise Chittick introduced the Resolution and moved to adopt Resolution Authorizing the Terms of Issuance and Securing the payment of $12,780,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds, Series 2022, of the Mid-Prairie Community School District, State of Iowa, Under the Provisions of Chapters 423E and 423F of the Code of Iowa, and providing for a method of payment of said bonds. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Resolution appointing UMB Bank, N.A. of West Des Moines, Iowa to serve as Paying Agent, Bond Registrar, and Transfer Agent, approving the Paying Agent, Bond Registrar, and Transfer Agent Agreement and authorizing the execution of same.
Denise Chittick introduced the Resolution and moved to adopt the Resolution appointing UMB Bank, N.A. of West Des Moines, Iowa to serve as Paying Agent, Bond Registrar, and Transfer Agent, approving the Paying Agent, Bond Registrar, and Transfer Agent Agreement and authorizing the execution of same. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Soccer Field Easement with Alliant Energy
Superintendent Schneider introduced the easement document provided by Alliant Entergy for the Board’s consideration. Alliant Energy is seeking approval for a permanent easement for the placement of a padmounted pole XMFR and pole. The easement is for at 15 foot by 15 foot area on the extreme Northeast corner of the parking lot for the Soccer Field. The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the permanent easement with Alliant Energy as presented in the document. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
2022 2023 Proposed School Fees / Admission Fees
Superintendent Schneider noted that the Nutrition Division of the Iowa Department of Education announced the increase to the minimum Adult Lunch Prices for the 2022-2023 School Year. These prices would increase Mid-Prairie’s Adult prices by $0.18 for the upcoming School Year. Rather than increase them by the minimum, it is proposed to increase the Breakfast and Lunch prices by $0.20 to $2.95 and $4.15, respectively for the 2022-2023 School Year.
Additionally, Schneider noted that the conference is increasing event ticket prices to $6 per High School Event and to $4 for Adults and $1 for Students. This also causes the Year Long Pass Prices to increase by $5 each for Families, Adults and Students for the 2022-2023 School Year. New amounts will be $265, $105, and $90, respectively.
The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding. The decision is hold off on increases for Activities until the first meeting in August. Thoughts were provided
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Adult meal prices for the 2022-2023 School year to $4.15 for Lunches and $2.95 for Breakfasts as presented. Jake Snider seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Middle School Dishwasher
Superintendent Schneider noted that as a result of a fire in the Middle School dishwasher on May 20th, the Middle School Dishwasher needs to be replaced prior to the start of school in August. Cory Evans and Gary Dawson have been working to obtain bids for new dishwashers. The bids are $30,754 from EMS Detergent Services (the Meiko machine) and $35,668 from Martin Brothers (the Hobart machine). Installation quotes would add to the overall bid price by bidders. Electrical services are quoted by Thrapp Electric at $2,300. It is recommended that the Hobart dishwashing machine in the Martin Brothers bid be considered even as additional bids are being sought on the Hobart dishwashing machine for a lower price. Reports on service and parts with the Meiko dishwashing machine have been less than satisfactory.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the purchase of a Hobart dishwashing replacement dishwasher model CL44En-BAS+Buildup and installation at the Middle School at the lowest price. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
It was decided to table the remainder of the Series 400 Board Policy Series until the July Meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
Board President Pickard noted the upcoming Board training sessions in July with IASB. The Board will meet for the Work Sessions on July 7th and 14th from 6pm to 8pm.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, July 11, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Board Policy 203 (Board Conflict of Interest Policy); Bank Account Setups for Bond Proceeds at Federation Bank and CBI Bank and Trust; IASB Legislative priorities, and Board Policies Series 400 review to continue.
The Board thanked Superintendent Schneider for his contribution to the Mid-Prairie Community. The Board presented Schneider with a framed picture where all Board members and Administrators had signed the margin/matting. Mark gave each board member a gift of appreciation for their service.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m. with Superintendent Schneider gaveling the meeting to a close.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
June 13, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
Vice-President Marianne Schlabach called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Jeremy Pickard and Jed Seward.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 5-0.
WORK SESSION
English Language Arts / Foreign Language Presentation
Kristan Hunter, Curriculum Leader, presented the work of the English Language Arts and Foreign Language groups as they reviewed curriculum needs for their respective areas. Some members of the two teams were present to assist Hunter in the presentation. They first discussed process followed by the teams as they reviewed curriculum and looked for improvements, especially for grades 6-12 using vision priority, needs assessment, exploration, and evaluation steps. The teams shared assessment data for Mid-Prairie and compared to the state level. 2021-2022 state level data is not yet available. Hunter then provided a summary of costs for each area for the next six years. Each team also discussed the curriculum chosen for the various grade levels and rationale for their choices. The Board asked questions on process and for clarification during the presentation. Board members affirmed the teams and the importance of students being engaged in the curriculum.
District Annual Report
Rachel Kerns, HSAP Director, facilitated and presented the 2021-2022 Annual Report document and spoke of the items in detail. She appreciated the opportunity to work with the Administrative Team on this project throughout the year. This 8-page report highlights many of the great things that have happened in the District for the year. Each Administrator highlighted items from their respective pages. Kerns asked the Board for their impressions and feedback. The Board provided input for the report and ideas for future content.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Mid-Prairie and 13 other districts received a grant to apprentice paraprofessionals towards a teaching career path. Currently there are 8 MP paraprofessionals that are participating in the process. Brief reports were given by a number of Building Administrators.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Nothing was discussed.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of May 9, 2022 and May 18, 2022;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for May 2022;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for June 13, 2002; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests – None presented for approval
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Kylie Hanshaw, Third Grade Teacher, $40,003 per annum;
Contract issued to Sarah Roy, Fourth Grade Teacher, $40,003 per annum;
Contract issued to Christine Meader, Fall Musical Director, $3,459 per season;
Contract issued to Christine Meader, Spring Play Director, $3,459 per season;
Contract issued to Kelby Bender, MS Assistant Softball Coach, $989 per season;
Resignation of Lisa Doser, MS Physical Education Teacher, $77,614 per annum, effective June 10, 2022;
Resignation of Lisa Doser, 7th Grade Volleyball Coach, $3,219 per annum, effective June 10, 2022;
Resignation of Lisa Doser, MS Girls Basketball Coach, $3,219 per annum, effective June 10, 2022;
Resignation of Mat Freel, HS Girls Assistant Soccer Coach, $3,069 per season, effective May 31, 2022;
Resignation of Justin Barthelman, HS Girls Head Soccer Coach, $5,116 per season, effective June 5, 2022;
Resignation of Christine Meader, Assistant Director of the Fall Musical, $2,046 per season, effective May 20, 2022;
Resignation of Christine Meader, Assistant Director of the Spring Play, $2,192 per season, effective May 20, 2022;
Resignation of Melissa Fleming, Middle School Girls Track Coach, $2,728 per season, effective May 25, 2022;
Resignation of Sadie Chacon, Middle School Nurse, $37,871 per annum, effective May 24, 2022:
Resignation of Emily Brehm-Stecher, Middle School Special Education Teacher, $45,175 per annum, effective June 6, 2022;
Resignation of Crystal Adair, Middle School General Cook, $14.56 per hour; effective May 31, 2022;
Resignation of Linda Wilson, Middle School General Cook, $16.48 per hour, effective May 23, 2022;
Fundraising Requests
High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through sale of meals through the baseball season for field renovations, equipment, supplies and volunteer coaches;
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Student Learning
English Language Arts / Foreign Language Curriculum Materials
Based upon the presentation in the Work Session, the Curriculum groups have requested Curriculum Funds be designated for new materials in the amounts of $57,941 for Secondary English Language Arts and $45,916 for District Foreign Language. These costs are projected for the next six years. Not all of the costs would be paid up front, rather than spread equally over the six year period. The Board asked questions for clarification and discussed the various concepts presented.
Mary Allred moved to approve the expenditures as presented for new Secondary English Language Arts Curriculum in the amount of $57,941 and District Foreign Language Curriculum in the amount of $45,916. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Sharing Agreements with Lone Tree Community School District
Superintendent Schneider presented the two 28E Agreements with Lone Tree Community School District for the 2022-2023 School Year. The first 28E Agreement is to share our Transportation Director with Lone Tree at 20% FTE where Mid-Prairie holds the contract for Teresa Hartley. The second 28E Agreement is to share our Special Education Director with Lone Tree at 20% FTE where Mid-Prairie holds the contract for Amy Shalla. The supplemental weighting the Districts will received for the sharing agreements is 4 Student FTEs for Transportation Director and 2 Student FTEs for Special Education Director. The total of 6 FTEs will generate additional revenue of approximately $44,500 to each District. Mid-Prairie Sharing Revenue would total 18 Student FTEs if passed for a total additional revenue of $113,500 for the 2022-2023 School Year. If these 28E Agreements are enacted by the Board, they will then be presented to the Lone Tree School Board for formal approval.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the 28E Sharing Agreements for the Transportation Director and the Special Education Director for the 2022-2023 School Year as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Student/Parent Handbooks
Superintendent Schneider drew the Board’s attention to the handbooks for each building. High School Principal Chuck Banks noted the High School Handbook. Changes were made to the following sections of the Handbook: Academic Letter; Honor Roll, Absence Procedure, Early Release/Late Arrival, Makeup Work, Academic Eligibility for Interscholastic Competition, Dress Code, and Excused Absences. The ALC, Virtual Academy, and Middle School have no changes to their handbooks. Home School made minor changes to their student handbook and noted those. The Elementary Schools made a few minor changes to the handbooks to include: allowing hats and stating social media guidelines for staff posting pictures, especially no pictures of students. The Board asked questions for clarification.
Denise Chittick moved to accept the Student/Parent Handbooks changes as presented. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
IASB Legislative Priorities
Superintendent Schneider drew the Board’s attention to the IASB Legislative Priorities document for the 2021-2022 Legislative Year. IASB has begun the inquiry and process for districts to determine their legislative priorities for the 2022-2023 Year. The process starts with the Board review of this document and then process to determine the priorities to communicate to IASB for next year. Schneider asked the Board to begin that process with a timeline to determine the priorities either at the next meeting.
Finance
Approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds, Series 2022
Superintendent Schneider, Board Secretary Swartzentruber, and Matt Gillaspie of Piper Sandler as the Municipal Advisor reported on the bidding process at the Bond Sale today, June 13, 2022. Bids were received and evaluated. The bid that is recommended to the Board is: from Robert W. Baird & Co., Inc. as one of the two bids received. Gillaspie provided rationale and background for the proposed winning bid. The bid is $12,566,306.75 at a true interest rate of 4.3688% for the purchase of $12,780,000 of bonds at par value. The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding. A resolution is required in order to accept the bid and move to closing of the sale on July 13, 2022.
Denise Chittick moved to resolve directing the sale of $12,780,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds, Series 2022 to Robert W. Baird & Co., Inc. at a True Interest Rate of 4.3688%. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - absent
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 5-0.
Bank Depository Resolution
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber presented the resolution in recognition of the funds to be received when the Revenue Bonds close in July. This will precede the annual Depository Resolution required in August although the funds received in July will exceed the current limits.
RESOLVED, that the Mid-Prairie Community School District of Wellman, Iowa in Washington County, Iowa approves the following list of financial institutions to be depositories of the Mid-Prairie School, all funds in conformance with all applicable provisions of Iowa Code Chapters 452 and 453 (1983) as amended by 1984 Iowa Acts. S.F. 2220. The Business Manager/Board Secretary is hereby authorized to deposit the Mid-Prairie School funds in amounts not exceed the maximum approved for each respective financial institution as set out below.
Location of Maximum Balance Maximum balance in
Depository name Home Office effect under prior effect under this
___________________ __________ resolution resolution .
UMB Bank, N.A. (ISJIT) Des Moines 3,000,000 3,000,000
Hills Bank Hills 12,000,000 25,000,000
Federation Bank Wellman 5,000,000 5,000,000
CBI Bank & Trust Kalona 5,000,000 5,000,000
Miles Capital Mgmnt Des Moines 2,000,000 2,000,000
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve 06132201 as presented reading from the resolution to increase the Hills Bank deposit amount to $25,000,000. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - absent Jeremy Pickard - absent
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - abstained
Motion carried 4-0 with Denise Chittick abstaining.
Kalona Community Center and Wellman Parkside YMCA Gymnasium Leases
Superintendent Schneider discussed the two five year leases to be signed with the YMCA and City Administrators. He noted that both leases have a few minor changes due to usage and governance. The Kalona lease agreement starts with an annual payment to the City of Kalona of $15,000 and increases by $1,000 per year to provide gymnasium access to the District for one-half of the gymnasium. The Wellman lease agreement starts with an annual payment split in half to the City of Wellman and to the Washington County YMCA of $15,000 and also increases by $1,000 per year. The lease terms have been reviewed by each entity. Superintendent Schneider recommends the leases be approved prior to the July 1st start dates.
Mary Allred moved to approve the 5-year lease documents for the Kalona and Wellman facilities to the City of Kalona and the City of Wellman/Washington County YMCA as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Director and Central Office Staff Compensation for 2022-2023
Superintendent Schneider provided a schedule of compensation for the 2022-2023 School Year to the Board. Six people are on the schedule. He performed a review of these positions compensation as compared to the 10 school districts immediately larger and 10 school districts immediately smaller the Mid-Prairie. After analysis, he provides a recommendation tonight for the compensation. He provided further rationale for the recommendation on each position. Increases in compensation packages ranged from 3.2% to 28.0% with the group’s percentage increase at 11.3%.
Denise Chittick moved to approve Directors and Central Office Staff wage and package increases for 2022-2023 as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.
Announcements
Rob Hruby and Greg Jergens reported on the meetings they and their teams conducted with the architects as to the needs of the Middle School and East Elementary buildings. Superintendent Schneider reminded the board that the final plans will be presented to the Board for approval.
Superintendent Schneider noted the Review of
Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, June 27, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: IASB Legislative Priorities, Grant Wood AEA Power School Agreement for 2022-2023; and Review of Board Policies 100 and 400 begins at the next meeting;
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:24 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
May 18, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber, East Elementary Principal Greg Jergens, and Middle School Principal Rob Hruby
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 7-0.
Public Forum – No one spoke.
Consent Agenda
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Randy Billups, HS Head Wrestling Coach, $4,339 per season;
TLC Contract issued to Melissa O’Rourke, PBIS/SEL Teacher Leader, $2,867 per annum;
TLC Contract issued to Stacia Danner, Model Preschool Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Resignation of Melanie King, HSAP Supervising Teacher, $28.10 per hour, effective 6/15/2022;
Resignation of Rachel Otting, West Elementary 3rd Grade Teacher, $42,079 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 School Year.
Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Construction Projects Funded with Revenue Bonds
Superintendent Schneider introduced the floor plan options for the Middle School while noting that East Elementary floor plan is settled. There are three options for the Middle School. Personnel from Carl A. Nelson Company, Construction Manager for the District, and Shive-Hattery, Architect for the District were present to answer questions. The Board focused on the third option as this was a combination of option 1 and input from Middle School staff as presented by Principal Hruby. The Board discussed the pros and cons of option 3 at length as well as thoughts for long term growth items. The third option is estimated to be the less expensive, by $200,000 to $500,000, of the three options. It also appears to provide flexibility for future expansion.
Jed Seward moved to accept Option 3 for the Middle School. Jake Snider seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Following the approval Shive-Hattery personnel talked about next steps in the process for design and development with an initial timeline for going for bid in December 2022, bids to be returned in late January of 2023, ground breaking goal is March of 2023 with completion in the Fall of 2024.
Superintendent Contract for 2022-2023
President Pickard noted that the Superintendent Contract for two years has been presented to and signed by Brian Stone. The form of the contract is similar to the previous Superintendent contract in terms of benefits and structure, but has been updated to include two years. The contracted amount is $156,000 base salary. Additionally, there is a $12,000 403(b) payment in lieu of family health insurance coverage, as Mr. Stone has asked for single coverage only. Other benefits include 4 weeks of vacation, and similar leaves to the Certified Staff Master Agreement provisions. The contract was reviewed by the Board. Question were asked by the Board for clarification.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the two-year Superintendent Contract with Brian Stone for $156,000 for the first year as presented. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Board Training Session – President Pickard asked about the board training session in July would the Board prefer it to be on two dates in shorter sessions or one date with a longer session. It is currently planned for 2 sessions. There appears to be initial agreement to keep the 2 session format.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
May 9, 2022 – 3:00 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Introductory Comments by Trent Grundmeyer
Board President Pickard reviewed the agenda for the day due to the level of detail and non-standard elements of the meeting.
Trent Grundmeyer gave instructions on the session for the Board and the process of interviews of the finalist candidates and deliberations.
New Superintendent Finalist Interviews – Closed Session
Marianne Schlabach moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual who’s hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(i), Code of Iowa. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board entered Closed Session at 3:16 p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 5:59 p.m. and took a break before reconvening.
President Pickard reconvened the meeting at 6:15 p.m.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 6:15 p.m.
Liz Harris, President of the MPEA, expressed thanks to the School Board for their work. The appreciation gift bags are for the Board’s enjoyment.
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of April 25, 2022;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for April 2022;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for May 9, 2022; Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Travis and Amber Becker request Wyatt Becker (Alternative Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Lisa Kesten requests Lucy Kesten (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Crystal Adair, Middle School General Cook, $14.59 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Jodi Meader, HSAP Media Secretary, $14.92 per hour;
Hourly Contract issued to Pattie Madison, HSAP Supervising Teacher, $25.65 per hour;
Contract Issued to Justin Barthelman, HS Assistant Football Coach, $3,347 per annum;
Contract Issued to Elizabeth Dehogues, Behavioral Interventionist, $47,934;
Contract Issued to Emily Brehm-Stecher, MS Special Education Teacher, $45,175;
TLC Contracts for 2022-2023 Issued to:
Contract Issued to Emily Zehr, TLC PBIS/SEL Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Hannah Mougin, TLC Literacy Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Jennifer Roth, TLC Literacy Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Emma Brenneman, TLC Students Supports Team Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Melanie Steinhart, TLC Students Supports Team Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Terra Huber, TLC Students Supports Team Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Jessica Swartzentruber, TLC Students Supports Team Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Rachel Foubert, TLC School Culture Committee Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Terri Adam, TLC School Culture Committee Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Ashley Bartels, TLC School Culture Committee Teacher, $2,867 per annum;
Contract Issued to Elsa Schmidt, TLC Instructional Lead Teacher, $2,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Traci Zahradnek, TLC Instructional Lead Teacher, $2,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Sara Puttmann, TLC Instructional Lead Teacher, $2,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Sarah O’Rourke, TLC Instructional Lead Teacher, $2,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Jessica Jones, TLC Instructional Lead Teacher, $2,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Sheila Raim, TLC Lead Supervising Teacher, $2,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Natalie Silbaugh, TLC Data Coordinating Teacher, $1,000 per annum;
Contract Issued to Collette McClellen, TLC Technology Teacher, $1,000 per annum;
Volunteer Coaches Spring of 2022
Zeb Evans, HS Softball Assistant Coach, Up to $2,400 from Resale/Concessions;
Jed Seward, HS Baseball Assistant Coach, Up to $1,500 from Resale/Concessions;
Brody Miller, HS Baseball Assistant Coach, Up to $1,500 from Resale/Concessions;
Aaron Fleming, MS Track Assistant Coach, $-0-
Resignation of Maria Flores, WE Paraprofessional, $14.21 per hour, effective End of 2021-2022 School Year;
Fundraising Requests
MP HSAP Roots and Shoots Program requests approval to raise funds through the annual Spring Flower Fundraiser, annual Fall Mum Fundraiser and other related activities from April of 2022 to April of 2023 to be used to purchase equipment, supplies, outdoor education, outdoor games, and learning and growing opportunities for students and families;
Marianne Schlabach seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Special Presentations
Recognition of Retiring Staff
Superintendent Schneider introduced the retiring staff and invited comments from those in attendance for each staff person. Staff persons retiring at the end of the 2021-2022 School Year include five people: Marian Marley, Jane Blieu, Terri Duwa, Norman Brooks, and Beth Spenler.
People came to honor the teachers and staff and many people shared memories and thanks to each person as they were honored individually. Superintendent Schneider presented each person with a plaque of recognition. The Board expressed their appreciation to each person for their many years of service to the District.
Finance
Project Manager Contract with Carl A. Nelson Company
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the Construction Project Manager Contract between the District and Carl A. Nelson Company to manage the construction projects for the Revenue Bonds. The AIA Contract form outlines the scope of work. Carl A. Nelson Company personnel were on a Zoom call to answer questions as needed. No questions were asked.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the Project Manager Contract with Carl A. Nelson Company for the construction projects as outlined in the scope of work. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Architect Contract with Shive-Hattery
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the Architect Contract between the District and Shive-Hattery, Inc. including the addendum to provide architectural services for the construction projects that will result from the issuance of the Revenue Bonds. The AIA Contract form outlines the scope of work. Shive-Hattery, Inc. personnel were on a Zoom call to answer questions as needed. No questions were asked.
Jake Snider moved to approve the Contract with Shive-Hattery, Inc. for the architectural services as outlined in the scope of work. Jed Seward seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Salaries for Principals, Middle School Dean of Students, and HSAP
Superintendent Schneider recommends a 3.2% package increase for Principals, and Assistant AD and Middle School Dean for the 2022-2023 School Year. This is consistent with the 3.2% package approval for Teachers and Support Staff passed at an earlier School Board Meeting. HSAP Administrative Staff and Hourly Teaching Staff raises differ from the 3.2% increase proposal due to various circumstances. These increases and the various related situations were presented and discussed by Schneider with the School Board.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the District Administrators and Middle School Dean of Students wage and package increases of 3.2%, and HSAP Administrative and Teaching Staff increases all for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Resolution to Fix the Date of Sale of Revenue Bonds, Electronic Bidding Procedures, and Approve the Official Statement
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber presented the resolution for the sale of $14,500,000 of Revenue Bonds, Electronic Bidding Procedures and the Preliminary Official Statement (POS). The resolution is required for passage prior to the schedule Bond Sale on June 13, 2022. The Resolution asks for more than the intended sale amount of $12,625,000 in order to provide maximum flexibility and the amount with the Public Hearing in December of 2021. The District can sell less than the resolution amount but cannot sell higher than the amount. It is standard practice to set the resolution amount higher. The Board asked final questions for clarification.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the resolution fixing the date of sale for June 13, 2022 at 1:00 p.m., of approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue bonds Series 2022, approving electronic bidding procedures and approving official Statement. Denise Chittick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
A special Board Meeting is set for Wednesday, May 18, 2022 at 6:15 p.m. to discuss the Middle School Building Addition, Renovation Plans, and Footprint Layout. (See additional notes on Closed Session, below)
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, June 13, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: The Annual Report, English and Language Arts materials will be requested, and Wages for Central Office and Director Staff.
Work Session / Closed Session
New Superintendent Finalist Discussion – Return to Closed Session
Gabriella Frederick moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual who’s hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(i), Code of Iowa. Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board entered Closed Session at 7:16 p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 10:07 p.m.
Extend an Offer to a Candidate
Denise Chittick moved to extend and offer to the chosen candidate for Superintendent of the Mid-Prairie Community District. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motioned carried 5-2 (Jed Seward and Jake Snider voted no).
The Board will discuss the additional details in closed session at the May 18, 2022 special meeting on candidate negotiations.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
April 25, 2022 – 3:40 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
Introductory Comments by Trent Grundmeyer
Grundmeyer gave instructions on the session for the Board and the process of deliberations after all candidates.
New Superintendent Semi-Finalist Interviews – Closed Session
Denise Chittick moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual who’s hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(i), Code of Iowa. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board entered Closed Session at 3:51p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 6:57 p.m.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items. Superintendent Schneider noted the 28E Agreements for HSAP for 2023; Graduates are approved are contingent on completion of course work, and Grant Wood Mentoring and Consortium Agreement for the benefit of the new Board members.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of April 11, 2022 and April 13, 2022;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for April 25, 2022;
Open Enrollment Requests
Justin and Rachel DeSotel request Caleb DeSotel (Kindergarten), and Mason DeSotel (Grade 2), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Bracie Christner requests Kingston Christner (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Meliah Diller requests Merrik Diller (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kyle and Tristyn Fisher request Jessiah Benson (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Haley Bontrager requests Loralyn Bontrager (Kindergarten) attend Williamsburg Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Jenny Hobbs, High School Assistant Softball Coach, $3,727.08 per season;
Contract issued to Olivia Tucker, 8th Grade Volleyball Coach, $2,132.00 per annum;
Resignation of Teresa Duwa, High School Paraprofessional, $16.75 per hour, effective end of 2021-2022 School Year;
Fundraising Requests
High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through hosting of a youth baseball camp for 2nd to 7th graders on Saturday, May 14, 2022, the proceeds will be used for equipment, volunteer coach payments, coaches and team apparel, and miscellaneous small equipment;
28E HSAP Agreement with Iowa Valley CSD for 2022-2023 -- Approved
Mentoring and Induction Consortium Agreement with Grant Wood AEA for the 2022-2023 School Year
MPHS Graduating Seniors Class of 2021-2022
Jerzi Anne Anderson Diago Armando Ayala Lilou Eve Beachy
Lane Michael Bear Madelyn Noel Bender Ethan Levi Bontrager
Lauren Renee Boos Brenten Robert Boyse Colby Therese Brown
Dylan Leo Bunting Alexander Wesley Burnham Gannon Daniel Callahan
Ty Lynn Carey Olivia Laryn Caskey William Shea Cavanagh
Alia Marie Clark Elizabeth Marie Cline Drew Nicholas Craft
Julian Oliver Davidson-Urquidez Bridget Mary Kathryn Fisher Zane Benjamin Fisher
Zoe Catherine Fisher Avery Natalia Frede Caelib Ambrose Garvey
Gunnar Jack Gingerich Ashlyn Ann Gugel Rochelle Ann Gutierrez
Evan Roger Hall Carter Grant Harmsen Emilia Lauren Harmston
Kelsi Lee Anne Harr Samuel Joseph Harris Tyler James Helmuth
Chandler Reed Hershberger Jarrett Joseph Hoffman Carly Kaye Hubbell
Conner James Jennings Justice Scott Jones Ryan John Jones
Madison Louise Kelly Brittany Lynn Kinsinger Jeorgia Carolina Knepp
Ethan James Kos Megan Alena Lucas Ainsley Marie Lueck
Brookline Emily Elise Lybarger Esther Elizabeth Martin Kaitlin Jo Martin
Owen Raymond McArtor Alyssa Anna McDowell Erica Jade McDowell
Rebekah Lynn Meader Ainsley Lynnea Miller Camden Lee Miller
Dawson Sue Miller Mya Kathleen Miller Emalee Catherine Molczyk
Anna May Nafziger Brodey Kenneth Neal Joshua Andrew Nicholson
Madeline Ann Nonnemann Lola Grace Norman Zane Michael Novy
Montanna Maria De Loudres O’Leary DeLanee Nichole Patterson Stone Nickolas Peck
Jackson Allen Pennington Hunter Cole Price Cana Noelle Rediger
Terra Celeste Richardson Ian Joseph Schmidt Katelyn Elizabeth Schneider
Thaddeus Charles Shetler Kaylee Ann Shirkey Carmen Rose Sieren
Gideon Robert Sim Sydney Ruth Skelton Nicolas Thomas Tardy
Maria Theresa Rose Titus Andrew David Townsend Ella Marie Wade
Emmanuel Joseph Watts Brianna JoLee Weber Caleb Michael Westen
Brent James Wiles Jaden Ruth Yoder Riley Benjamin Yoder
Samuel Ian Yoder Sydney Elena Yoder
MPCSD Virtual Academy Graduating Seniors Class of 2021-2022
Mason Anthony Brady Samantha Ann McQuirk Ruth Elena Taylor
MP-HSAP Graduating Seniors Class of 2021-2022
Grace Martin Ruth Grace Martin Deborah Nelida Vallejo
Josiah J. Vallejo Cierra Candelycia Nicole Helmuth Lily Joy Render
Rosalie Margaret Queen Danae Gingerich Ariana Irene Parsons
Robert Andrew Nagy Andrea N. Yutzy Jack Andrew Friessen
Isabel June Forbes
Grant Wood AEA Mentoring and Induction Consortium Agreement for the 2022-2023 School Year - Approved
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
Student Feeds for 2022-2023
Superintendent Schneider shared the Student Fee Schedule for 2022-2023. The proposed fee schedule recommends reinstatement of the Book Rental Fees for 2022-2023 at $50 per student from Four Year-Old Preschool to Grade 12. These fees bring in about $70,000. This was last used in School Year 2019-2020. There is also a proposed increase of $0.05 for Student Lunches and Breakfasts. There has been no increase since 2019-2020 School Year due to the Federal Program for all student free lunch the past two school years. The Federal Program is scheduled to end this school year. The State has not announced the minimum lunch and breakfast prices for adults for the 2022-2023 School Year. The District is currently at the minimum of $3.95 for adult lunches and $2.75 for adult breakfasts. When these are announced, there may need to be an addition to these adult meal prices.
Mary Allred moved to approve the 2022-2023 Student Fees schedule as presented. Jake Snider seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Carl A. Nelson & Company Contract
Superintendent Schneider shared the AIA 132 Contract draft between Owner (The District) and the Construction Manager as Advisor (Carl A. Nelson and Company (CANCO)). The draft contract is in almost final form and needs preliminary review and approval by the Board. This is an informational item.
Shive-Hattery Contract
Superintendent Schneider shared the status of the contract between the District and Shive-Hattery, Inc., architects for the Construction Projects to be performed using the 2022 Revenue Bond Proceeds. This will need to be worked through an approved before Carl A. Nelson and Company can begin their work.
MPEA Compensation Agreement for 2022-2023
Superintendent Schneider shared that the IBB agreed to propose a total package increase for the 2022-2023 School Year of 3.20%. It is above the new money percentage signed by the governor in March of 2022 of 2.5%. The 3.20% is near the State school district average settlements for 2022-2023. The MPEA and MPESSA Associations ratified the proposal on April 15, 2022. It is recommended that the School Board also consider ratification of the 3.20% package increase. Schneider recommends ratification of the package. Schneider thanked the MPEA for their good faith bargaining.
Jake Snider moved to approve 2022-2023 Compensation Agreement for Teachers and Classified Staff that includes a 3.20% overall package increase as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, May 9, 2022, at 12:45 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Closed Session In-person Interviews of the Superintendent Finalist Candidates; Recognize retiring teachers and support staff; and Shive-Hattery and Carl A. Nelson and Company contracts provided they are ready.
Closed Session
New Superintendent Semi-Finalist Interviews – Return to Closed Session
Mary Allred moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual who’s hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(i), Code of Iowa. Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board entered Closed Session at 7:26p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 9:59 p.m.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 10:00 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
April 13, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Staff Present: Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber; Human Resources Coordinator Carmela Ulin
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
Overview of Superintendent Candidate Pool
Board President Pickard asked Trent Grundmeyer of Grundmeyer Leader Services to proceed with the agenda as outlined. 22 total candidates applied for the Mid-Prairie Superintendent opening. The candidate pool stats were shared in terms of diversity, experience, and referral sources. The Board asked clarifying questions on the data provided.
Finalize Formal Interview Schedule for the New Superintendent Position
Trent Grundmeyer shared the tentative Interview Schedule for Finalists with the Board and explained the process. He asked for questions and input by the Board. The Board provided feedback on the schedule. Modifications will be made by Grundmeyer and returned to the District.
Review Superintendent Candidates, Finalize Screening Questions, Discuss Formal Interview Teams for New Superintendent – Closed Session
Denise Chittick moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual who’s hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(i), Code of Iowa. Seconded by Mary Allred.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board entered Closed Session at 6:35p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 8:44p.m.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:45p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
April 11, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
Bully and Harassment Presentation
High School Principal Chuck Banks introduced Anne Morgan, Great Prairie AEA adjunct presenter. She provided a presentation on Bully and Harassment issues and ideas with the Board. She shared Iowa Department of Education Guidance document on the Bullying Checklist – District dated June 28, 2021 and discussed the elements of the definition of bullying as defined by the Code of Iowa. The Board asked questions for clarification of the Board versus Administrator role in the Policies and investigations.
FCCLA Thrift Shop Presentation – Moved to the first Business Agenda items in Student Learning.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of March 28, 2022;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for March, 2022;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for April 11, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Katelyn Hammen requests Alice Hammen (Alternative Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Brianna Brim requests Shayden Brim (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Saide Chacon, Middle School Nurse, $37,871.00 per annum;
Resignation of Justin Garvey, High School Varsity Wrestling Head Coach, $6,437.00 per season, effective March 31, 2022;
Resignation of Lisa Doser, Middle School 8th Grade Volleyball Coach, $3,219 per annum, effective March 31, 2022;
Resignation of Brooke Bringman, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.39 per hour, effective the end of the 2021-2022 School Year;
Resignation of Taylor Ruhnke, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.74 per hour, effective the end of the 2021-2022 School Year;
Fundraising Requests
Boys Basketball requests approval to raise funds through conducting basketball camps from June 6th to June 9th to be used to pay for volunteer coaches, buy coaches and player apparel, and purchase equipment;
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
FCCLA Thrift Shop Presentation Lease and Corporate Authorization
Principal Banks introduced Sarah O’Rourke, High School FCS Teacher and FCCLA Sponsor, along with a group of three students. They provided and introduction and an update for the Thrift Shop that they are working on for downtown Wellman.
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber shared the lease for the building for the Thrift Shop and the Corporate Authorization for the stand alone Bank Account for the Thrift Shop.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the one-year lease for the Thrift Shop with Jeremy Richardson as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Jed Seward moved to approve Corporate Authorization for the checking account at Federation Bank as presented. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
7:15PM Public Hearing – Amend the 2021-2022 Certified Budget
Board President Pickard opened the Public Hearing on the Amendment to the Certified Budget for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. No one spoke. President Pickard closed the Public Hearing at 7:16p.m.
Approve the 2021-2022 Certified Budget Amendment
President Pickard asked if there were any questions or further discussion.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the 2021-2022 Certified Budget Amendment as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
7:20PM Public Hearing – 2022-2023 Certified Budget
Board President Pickard opened the Public Hearing on the Certified Budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023. No one spoke. President Pickard closed the Public Hearing at 7:21p.m.
Approve the 2022-2023 Certified Budget
President Pickard asked if there were any questions or further discussion.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve 2022-2023 Certified Budget as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Redemption of General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2014 Resolution
Superintendent Schneider shared the Resolution as prepared by Ahlers and Cooney for the advanced Debt Service Levy for the 2021-2023 School Year. This advanced levy will allow the District to pay additional principal of $785,000 and to shorten the term of the bonds by an additional year, and three years in total since the District began to do the advanced Debt Service Levy in Fiscal Year 2019-2020.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the Resolution for the Advanced Debt Service Levy to pay an additional principal amount of $785,000 in Fiscal Year 2022-2023. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes Motion carried 7-0.
Accept the 2021 Annual Financial Audit
Business Manager Swartzentruber presented an overview of the audited financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2021. He noted the Auditor comments provided and the District response to those comments. He also noted the later presentation date than in previous years and the reasons for the delay.
Denise Chittick moved to accept the 202-2021 Audited Financial Statements as presented. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Piper Sandler & Company Financial Services Agreement and Dissemination Agent
Superintendent Schneider discussed the engagement documents for the District to engage Piper Sandler & Company in the sale of Revenue Bonds on behalf of the District. The Board asked questions for clarification.
Jake Snider moved to approve the engagement of Piper Sandler & Company in the Financial Services Agreement on the sale of the 2022 Series School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds and to appointment of Piper Sandler & Company as the Dissemination Agent in the sale of the 2022 and 2023 Revenue Bonds using Sales Tax Funds. Jed Seward seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Ahlers Cooney Legal Services Agreement
Superintendent Schneider discussed the engagement letter with Ahlers Cooney, Attorneys, to serve as Bond Counsel and Disclosure Counsel in the sale of the 2022 Series School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds. Their review and legal work associated with the sale and dissemination of the bonds provide assurances that we are following all of the necessary legal disclosures and steps of the bond sale transactions.
Mary Allred moved to approve engagement of Ahlers Cooney as Bond and Disclosure Counsel in the 2022 Series School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Gallagher Benefit Services, Inc. GASB 75 Services Agreement
Superintendent Schneider discussed the engagement letter with Gallagher Benefit Services to perform the actuarial services to determine the GASB 75 actuarial liability calculation for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. The engagement will cost the District $5,800 and is required to be completed every two fiscal years with the year in between as an interim update to the calculation. This is required analysis of the current liability of promises made for the provision of retirement benefits and includes not only the current early retirees, but a determination of the probability that the benefits will be used in the future by current employees who may elect into these benefits.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the GASB 75 actuarial engagement for the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
Board Development and Inservice Activities.
A rescheduling of the training originally planned for April 13, 2022 is being investigated for a date in June.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 25, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: IBB session this afternoon will have a tentative agreement that may require a special meeting; April 25th will be a screening of Superintendent Applicants; the Business meeting will be first; School Fees and HSAP 28E Agreements are also anticipated; the May 9th will be approval of the graduates and recognition of retiring teachers and paraprofessionals.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:47p.m.
Interest-Based Bargaining Negotiations Strategy Session was conducted by the Board in exempt session.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
March 28, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as amended to table Proposed New Board Policy 415 Recruitment of Coaches and Sponsors. Seconded by Jake Snider. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
Superintendent Search
Board President Jeremy Pickard introduced Trent Grundmeyer and Brian Mitchell from Grundmeyer Leader Services (GLS), Consultants in the Superintendent Search to the Board. The first thing presented a preliminary review of the results of the Stakeholder Survey where there were 334 responses. GLS provided input on their process and timeline that will be used in the Superintendent Search. The Board discussed the various elements and asked questions throughout the work session.
Task Force Updates
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of March 21, 2022;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for March 28, 2022;
Open Enrollment Requests
Carl Strabala requests Ryker Strabala (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Shawn Sandersfeld, HSAP and Middle School Band Director, $54,296 per annum;
Contract issued to Grace Andreassen, 3rd Grade Teacher, $39,365.00 per annum;
TLC Positions
Contract Issued to Kristan Hunter, TLC Curriculum and Instructional Leader 1.0 FTE, $64,477.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Jill Poock, TLC Model Literacy Coach 0.5 FTE and Title I Teacher 0.5 FTE; $66.476 per annum;
Contract issued to Emily Pennington, TLC Model Math Coach 0.5 FTE and Title I Teacher 0.5 FTE; $65,156 per annum;
Contract issued to Frank Slabaugh, TLC Interventionist and Instructional Support Leader 0.5 FTE; $30,542 per annum;
Contract issued to Taylor Weber, TLC Interventionist and Instructional Support Leader 0.5 FTE; $25,961 per annum;
Contract issued to Lori Simon, TLC Computer and Science Teacher 1.0 FTE; $49,206 per annum;
Contract issued to Erin Cavanagh, TLC Learning Design Leader 1.0 FTE; $66,475 per annum;
Resignation of Mark Schneider, Superintendent of Mid-Prairie Community Schools, $178,390, effective June 30, 2022
Resignation of Dorothy Miller, Home School Assistance Program Media Secretary, $14.21 per hour, effective May 9, 2022;
Fundraising Requests – No Fundraising Request Submitted.
Marianne Schlabach seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Facility Needs
Superintendent Schneider updated the Board on current projects with a review of educational space needs and safety concerns, as well as developments from the previous meeting. In order to proceed with the Revenue Bonds there would need to be an action to authorize Piper Sandler to proceed with the amount of the bonds through a Preliminary Official Statement that Piper Sandler will prepare. The Bonds to be sold would be approximately $12,625,000 to raise construction funds of approximately $11,315,000. The First Priority Projects for Middle School and East Elementary will be addressed. There is also support for two of three of the Second Priority Projects including the Softball Lights and High School Track. The Wrestling Room needs further processing due to it being less complete in cost and concept. The Board discussed the variations from the original plan, especially noting the changes at the Middle School without a gymnasium and the educational class sizes to allow for expansion of programs.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the creation of the Preliminary Official Statement to be prepared by Piper Sandler for Revenue Bonds to include the Middle School Project, East Elementary Project, the Softball Lights, and the High School Track. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Second Reading of Board Policy 405.2 – Licensed Employees Qualifications, Recruitment, and Selection
Superintendent Schneider/Board President Pickard noted the Board Policy passed on first reading at the previous meeting. The have been no changes to the amendment approved at the March 21, 2022 meeting. It was asked if there were any further questions or discussion for Policy 405.2.
Mary Allred moved to approve Policy 405.2 on Second Reading as presented. Denise Chittick seconded. 7-0.
Second Reading – Series 300 School Board Policies
Superintendent Schneider noted the work and review done at the January Board Meetings on Series 300 Board Policies as well as the First Reading to accept the policies passed at the March 21, 2022 meeting. It was asked if there were questions or further discussion for the Series 300 School Board Policies.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve on Second Reading the Series 300 School Board Policies as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Proposed New Board Policy 415 – Recruitment of Coaches and Sponsors
This agenda item was tabled to a future Board meeting.
District Behavioral Interventionist
Principal Amy Shalla recommends the addition of a Full Time Behavioral Interventionist for the 2022-23 School Year. This will be a District position that will support the elementary buildings. The position will replace the current behavior paraprofessional position hired for East Elementary earlier in this School Year. Additional support for proactively creating plans, working with small groups and responding to issues is needed. The increased funds will come from the General Fund with an estimated increase in expense of $34,000. The Board asked questions about program and need.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the addition of a Full Time Behavioral Interventionist for the 2022-2023 School year to replace and upgrade from the current Behavior Paraprofessional position. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
Shared Staff 28E Agreements
Superintendent Schneider presented the four 28E Agreements with Clear Creek Amana School District. These are a continuation of sharing agreements that have been in place over the past number of years. The District hires and shares the Human Resources Coordinator position and the Social Worker Position with Clear Creek Amana School District. Clear Creek Amana School District hires and shares the Curriculum Director and Buildings and Grounds Director with the District. An additional paragraph has been added to the 28E Agreements to allow for termination of the agreements by September 30, 2022 with the understanding that both Districts have new Superintendents. There are sharing revenue dollars available to both Districts in this arrangement. It is 9 FTEs in funding received by both Districts that totals $66,600.
Jed Seward moved to approve the four 28E Agreements with Clear Creek Amana School District for the 2022-2023 School Year – Human Resources Coordinator, Social Worker, Curriculum Director, and Buildings and Grounds Director. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
Task Force Updates – Informal reports.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – The April 13th Training date will be repurposed for the Superintendent Zoom interviews in Closed Session.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 11, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Public Hearing for the 2021-2022 Amended Budget, Public Hearing on the 2022-2023 Certified Budget; Action items on both Budgets; and Discussion of Superintendent candidates.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:10p.m.
Interest-Based Bargaining Negotiations Strategy Session was conducted by the Board in exempt session.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
March 21, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
Finance Report
Jeff Swartzentruber, Business Manager presented the 2022-2023 Certified Budget Proposal and discussed the process for approving the Certified Budget prior to the April 15, 2022 due date. The current anticipated levy rate for Fiscal Year 2023 is anticipated to be $13.22 per thousand as compared to $13.23 per thousand for the current Fiscal Year 2022. The legal documents to continue with the Advanced Debt Service Levy as has been done the last 4 years is in process and anticipated to be completed by the April 11, 2022 School Board meeting. The Board expressed thanks for the presentation and breakdown of the numbers. Public Hearings for the Budget need to be set during the Business Session.
Task Force Updates
President Jeremy Pickard asked for updates from the various Task Forces that have recently been formed.
The Retention and New Hire Task Force of Jed Seward and Denise Chittick updated the Board on some of the ideas they have processed.
The Facilities Task Force of Marianne Schlabach and Gabrielle Frederick updated the Board on some of the initial work and research done to review options after the March 1st Bond Referendum results.
The Bullying and Harassment group is spearheaded by Mary Allred and Jake Snider. The Board asked the group and administrators to invite a group from Grant Wood AEA to present on this topic.
The Superintendent Search Task Force of Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jeff Swartzentruber, and Carmela Ulin discussed the process and referred to the later agenda item in the Business Meeting.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
No comments were made at this time.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Asked Tammi Drawbaugh from IASB to have to a Board Development Work Session on Wednesday, April 13, 2022
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
Jaron Rosien, Mayor of the City of Washington and candidate for the Iowa House Representative for House District 92 introduced himself and is candidacy for the Iowa House.
A parent commented on Bullying and Harassment in the District. She shared that they met with the Cultural and Diversity Group and then this afternoon with Robin Foster, Mary Allred, and Jake Snider. They are still working to figure out where they can continue to plug in to make a difference.
A parent discussed concerns about the Volunteer and Visitor policy. He questioned whether the issue lies with the implementation of the policy and not the policy itself. He asks the Board to make sure the process is methodical in the investigation.
Another parent discussed the Volunteer and Visitor policy on a personal level, and noted some of the steps taken when the issue was investigated.
President of the MP Fine Arts Boosters spoke on behalf of the Volunteer and Visitor policy. She noted the steps the Fine Arts Boosters took in regard the concerns of that have been brought. She noted that they tried to be transparent in the entirety of the process.
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items. Superintendent Schneider noted the 28E Agreement with West Liberty as the sixth 28E Agreement for HSAP students as a consent item.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of February 28, 2022 and March 10, 2022;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for February 2022;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for March 21, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Angela Lyons requests Henry Lyons (Grade 7), and William Lyons (Grade 9), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Karen Shafer-Waters requests Zoe Waters (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Amber Mattila-Plank requests Corinthian Mattila-Plank (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Todd Liddell requests Rolan Liddell (Grade 12) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Frank and Jessica Attere request Liam Attere (Grade 3), and Theodore Attere (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Shannon Babbitt requests Anna Babbitt (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kristin Bankston requests Ezra Bankston (Grade 6), Maxwell Bankston (Kindergarten), and Oren Bankston (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Doug and Natalie Fern request Liana Fern (Grade 8) and Noelle Fern (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Abigail Maher requests Leah Maher (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Stuart and Rebecca Pitman request Emmie Pitman (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kelsey Steffen requests Francis Stephen (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kateri Trapp requests Seraphia Trapp (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Margarita Herrera requests Annabella Tripplett (Grade 5), and Robert Tripplett (Grade 3) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Chuck and Angie Miller request Brayden Miller (Grade 8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Carla Seele requests Sophia Seele (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from West Liberty Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Jonathan and Kristine Beers request Sophia Beers (Grade 9) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Julie Rippel requests Adaline Rippel (Kindergarten), Forrest Rippel (Grade 4), Gabrielle Rippel (Grade 11), Isabelle Rippel (Grade 7), and Sophia Rippel (Grade 9) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kimberly Stevenson requests Ila Stevenson (Grade 12) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Tandy Greiner requests Andrew Greiner attend Clayton Ridge Community School District from Mid-Prairie for the 2022-23 School Year:
Steve Groenewold requests Seth Groenewold attend Iowa City Community School District from Mid-Prairie for the 2022-23 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Stacey Cavey, 7th Grade Girls Assistant Track Coach, $1,522.50 per annum;
Contract issued to Kevin Cortum, 7th Grade Boys Assistant Track Coach, $1,522.50 per season;
Contract issued to Luke Caster, High School English Teacher, $56,671.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Jillian Boman, High School Science Teacher, $62,780.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Mariah Schlabach, 4th Grade Teacher, $39,365.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Will Van Soelen, 2nd Grade Teacher, $39,365.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Katie Palmer, 1st Grade Teacher, $39,365.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Abby Threlkeld, Title I Grade Teacher, $39,365.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Kate Pruess, Grade 5-12 Counselor, $44,455.00 per annum;
Resignation of Wendy Berry, Middle School Special Education Teacher, $64,729 per annum, effective End of 2021-2022 School Year;
Resignation of Jane Blieu, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.89 per hour, effective May 31, 2022;
Volunteer Coaches for Spring of 2022
Byron Yoder, High School Boys Soccer Assistant Coach - $1,200.00 from Boys Soccer Resale;
Sofia Adams, High School Boys Soccer Assistant Coach - $1,200.00 from Boys Soccer Resale;
Noah Hughes, High School Girls Soccer Assistant Coach;
Gary Curtis, High School Girls Track Assistant Coach - $200.00 from Girls Track Resale;
Fundraising Requests
High School Boys Soccer requests approval to sell Casey’s Pizza Cards to help pay for 2 assistant coaches and soccer and coaches gear;
28E Agreement with West Liberty Community Schools for HSAP Services
Starting with the 2022-2023 School Year the District is approved to offer Home School Assistance Program Services to West Liberty Students. This agreement is automatically renewed until terminated.
Accept Results of the March 1, 2022 Bond Referendum Vote
The Board accepts the Abstract of Votes for the two questions related to the General Obligation Bond Vote. There were 1,049 voters. Question 1 received 585 affirmative votes or 56%. Question 2 received 580 affirmative votes or 56%. Both needed a super majority of 60%+1 to pass.
Jed Seward seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Planning for the Future
Selection of Board Members for Interview Committee
President Pickard reported on the current process for the Superintendent Search using consultant Grundmeyer Leader Services (GLS). He introduced Carmela Ulin HR Coordinator and she provided an update. Currently, there are 4 candidates that have submitted applications. She also highlight the Superintendent Survey on the District Website. Ulin also discussed the Initial Set-Up Questions document and the progress currently made. She highlighted the video that was sent by GLS.
The entire Board will be involved in the review of all candidates and the selection of the smaller group to interview. The process could include the entire Board on Zoom meetings. The stakeholder interviews will include a number of representatives. The application period closes on April 9th. GLS will be invited to the March 28th meeting next week.
Pickard discussed the need to have 3 Board Members on the Stakeholders on-site interviews. The entire Board will also be able to meet with the candidates at the end of the day. Pickard discussed his recommendation to have Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, and Denise Chittick as the Board Members on the Stakeholders interview group.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, and Denise Chittick to serve on the larger stakeholder interview committee for interviewing Superintendent Candidates. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Facility Needs Proposal
Superintendent Schneider reported on the initial work that has been done to this point with a review of the needs for educational space and safety concerns subsequent to the General Obligation Bond Referendum of March 1st that did not pass. He reported on the group’s process and discussion of changes at the Middle School and at East Elementary. This is a much scaled back proposal from what was originally part of the March Bond Referendum. The Board discussed changing the options to East Elementary to reach more of the much needed educational programing. A draft of a timeline of events from Piper Sandler was shared with the Board if a decision is made to move forward with the issuance of Revenue Bonds.
Summer Projects Above $25,000
Superintendent Schneider shared a list of Summer Projects he and the Lead Building Custodians have developed to meet a number of needs for improvements or replacements in the buildings. The projects total $485,000. Four of the projects are greater than $25,000 and would require Board Approval to implement. The Lead Custodians each explained their larger projects. The larger projects include:
The Board asked questions about the projects list and specifically about the larger projects.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Summer Projects list as presented including the four projects that exceed $25,000 in total cost as listed in the bullet points above, as those are not to exceed $300,000 in total. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Retention Payments for Employees
Superintendent Schneider noted the late February passage by Governor Reynolds for Teacher Retention Payments funded by the State. A total of 111 Mid-Prairie Teachers qualified for the payment on the March Payroll as they were full time along with other criteria. A spreadsheet was provided to outline the total cost if all employees received the same payment as the Governor’s plan. Should the Board decide to approve a payment to all employees, the amount would be taken from ESSER III Funds and some of the dollars original allocated for another project out of ESSER III would be shifted to SAVE or PPEL funds. The Board asked questions for clarification and discussed the possible ideas and results.
Jake Snider moved to approve a $1,000.00 one-time retention payment to remaining employees, including Summer Coaches under contract, who work at least half time or more to come from ESSER III Funds and paid in the April 25, 2022 payroll. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Board Policy 405.2 – Licensed Employees Qualifications, Recruitment, and Selection
Superintendent Schneider noted the current sign-on bonus for last year and the hard to fill positions. He discussed the current options and possibilities available to the Board for hiring teachers for the 2022-2023 School Year. The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve Policy 405.2 on First Reading to include verbiage presented for a sign-on bonus for all new teacher hires. Mary Allred seconded. 7-0.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve a sign-on bonus for all new teachers for the 2022-2023 School Year in the amount of $5,000.00, to be paid in two installments provided the teachers remained employed at the time of the installments. Jake Snider seconded. 7-0.
Part-Time Secondary Physical Education Contract
Superintendent Schneider and High School Principal, Chuck Banks, discussed the proposal to move the current 0.625 FTE for a Physical Education Teacher shared between the Middle School and High School to a 0.8 FTE for the 2022-2023 School Year. The cost to increase this for next year is estimated to be $11,000.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the increase in the Part-Time Secondary Physical Education Teacher Contract from 0.625 FTE to 0.8 FTE for the 2022-2023 School Year. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Bus Route Paraprofessionals
Superintendent Schneider and Transportation Director Teresa Hartley discussed this proposal for behavioral paraprofessionals on school buses. It is noted that one paraprofessional on a bus would cost the District about $10,700 per year, or $160,000 per year if there was a bus paraprofessional on each route bus. The Board asked questions for clarification and discussed the financial implications if a decision is made to move forward.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the creation of a Bus Paraprofessional Position to accept all 15 positions. The motion died for lack of a seconded. No vote was taken.
The Board discussed the number of Bus Paraprofessionals that might be needed. These positions would be paid for out of General Funds. Board members asked for additional information. The Board asked for this to be further researched, and then come with additional proposal and criteria at a future Board meeting. Additional thoughts were expressed about a pilot project for the remainder of FY2022.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the creation of a Bus Paraprofessional Position pilot to accept 3 positions for the remainder of the School Year. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Board Policy 903.2 – Community Resource Persons and Volunteers and Board Policy 903.3 Visitors to the School District Buildings and Sites
Board President Jeremy Pickard provided information on the Policies for this agenda item as requested at the February 28, 2022, School Board Meeting. Board Member Mary Allred as Task Force member does not think there is an issue to the policy, rather an issue with the definition of a volunteer versus a visitor. The phrase “performed repeatedly over a significant period of time” is the issue at hand. The Administrators were asked if there is a way to gain more clarity. Discussion turned to School Sponsored activities versus Non-school Sponsored activities and monitoring entrances to the buildings. The dialogue between building administrators has been strong on situations that occur, especially consultation with each other for input. It is agreed that the policy is focused on School Sponsored activities. There were no revisions to the either policy. When in doubt do a background check. Also, noted that Activities and other departments are also reminded of the policies at the beginning of each year and throughout the year.
Board Policy 105 – Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy
Board Member Mary Allred noted that the policy seems sound. However, it seems that communication can be improved. A Board training session could provide additional tools and insights to situations as they arise. No action was taken at this time.
Proposed New Board Policy 415 – Recruitment of Coaches and Sponsors
Superintendent Schneider presented this concept to the Board as a way to increase the coaching and sponsor pool. The incentive is designed to help candidates more easily gain their Coaching Endorsement through a financial incentive in high need areas over a 5-year period. The Board suggested the 5-year period could be changed to 2 or 3 years. There would also incentive for existing coaches in hard to fill coaching positions. There is consensus that verbiage for an official policy statement be drafted and brought to the Board for consideration at a future meeting.
First Reading – Series 300 School Board Policies
Superintendent Schneider noted the work and review done at the January Board Meetings on Series 300 Board Policies. He noted the changes discussed at the meeting were included in the Board document website. Board President Pickard asked for additional questions and comment.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to table the agenda item to a future meeting. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motion failed 0-7.
Jed Seward moved to approve on First Reading the Series 300 School Board Policies as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
School Finance
Middle School Gym Roof Bids
Superintendent Schneider noted the need to replace the final phase of the West portion of roof on the Middle School Gymnasium and described the project work. Due to the size of the project, he requested bids from two contractors. The contractors that bid the job were D R and C, Inc. at $43,315.00 with two additional options for $6,610.—Total contract with Options is $49,925; and DrySpace at $49,134 with two additional options for $8,993—Total contract with Options is $58,127. The Board asked questions to clarify the details of the project.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve DR and C, Inc. to replace the West portion Middle School Gymnasium Roof at a bid price of $43,315 with options of $6,610. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Set Date and Time for the Public Hearing for the FY2022 Certified Budget Amendment
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber highlighted the Public Hearing document for the amendment of the 2021-2022 School Year Budget. The areas for amendment are the Instruction category and the Total Support Services category. The Instruction category is recommended for amendment for $300,000 to a total of $14,136,000 as ESSER III Funds and the Governor’s Retention Payment package could put the District over the approved amounts. The Total Support Service Category is also recommended for amendment for $300,000 to a total of $7,190,500 as ESSER III Funds are being spent a bit faster than anticipated and also put the District over the approved amounts. The amendment would need to be presented to the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) in Des Moines for approval. However, before they can be acted upon by the Board, a public hearing needs to be set. It is recommended a public hearing be set for the School Board Meeting on April 11, 2022 at 7:10 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. A Notice of Public Hearing that includes the Budget Amendments for 2021-2022 is set to be published in The News upon approval.
Jake Snider moved to approve setting the date for the Public Hearing on the 2021-2022 Amendment of Current Budget for April 11, 2022 at 7:10 p.m. in the Central Office Community Room. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Set the Date and Time for the Public Hearing of the 2022-23 Budget
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber recommend a Public Hearing for the proposed 2022-2023 Budget be set for April 11, 2022 at 7:20pm in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. A Notice of Public Hearing that includes the Budget Summary for Fiscal 2022-2023 is set to be published in the News upon approval.
Jake Snider moved to approve the Notice of Public Hearing on the 2022-2023 Proposed Budget for Monday, April 11, 2022 at 7:20p.m in the Central Office Community Room. SS seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.
Announcements
Nothing added from earlier in the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, March 28, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: 28E Agreements for Sharing Staff; Second Reading of Board Policies Series 300; Superintendent Search items; and Discussion on the Sale of Revenue Bonds and possible action.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:53 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
March 10, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred (In-person), Denise Chittick (In-person), Gabrielle Frederick (Zoom), Jeremy Pickard (In-person), Marianne Schlabach (Zoom), Jed Seward (Zoom), Jake Snider (arrived via Zoom at 6:18 p.m.).
Board members absent: Jake Snider (arrived via Zoom at 6:18 p.m.).
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 6-0.
Special Business Meeting
Determine the Salary Range for Superintendent Replacement
Board President Jeremy Pickard updated the Board on the starting process for the Superintendent Search. One of the items that needs to be determined is the salary range. This will be used to determine the potential fee to be paid to the search firm in its contract. Business Manager, Jeff Swartzentruber prepared a spreadsheet using the IASB Salary Data for Superintendents for Fiscal Year 2022 and shared it with the Board in preparation for this meeting. A salary range of $150,000 to $185,000 is an initial target is recommended.
Jake Snider arrived at 6:18 p.m. during this agenda item.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the initial salary target range for the Superintendent Search to be between $150,000 and $185,000. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Approve Consulting Contract of Grundmeyer Leader Services for the Superintendent Search and Hiring Engagement
Board President Pickard provided context for the use of a search firm for the next Superintendent of Mid-Prairie Community Schools. He reported on a meeting between himself, Marianne Schlabach (Board Vice President), Jeff Swartzentruber (Board Secretary), and Carmela Ulin (Human Resource Coordinator). The Board discussed the contract and the fees in the contract for the services to be rendered.
Denise Chittick moved to approve consulting contract with Grundmeyer Leader Services as presented with the fee for services not to exceed $15,000. Jake Snider seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
February 28, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
District Transportation Report
Teresa Hartley, Transportation Director, provided a presentation on the District’s transportation activities, initiatives, challenges and celebrations. Mid-Prairie is the 5th largest district in the state covering 215 square miles. There are 15 daily bus routes driving 965 total miles per day, or almost 225,000 miles per year to transport 447 students each day. Activity Trip miles total over 51,000 per year. Focus in the presentation included efforts to interact with Community, Drivers, and Students. The Board asked questions for clarification on support on buses and thanked Teresa and Transportation for all of the work and care that is taken each day.
Middle School Activities Report
Nathan Carlson, Middle School Activities Director, provided a presentation on Middle School Activities over the past 16 months. He discussed the updates to equipment and uniforms, and some of the positive events that have happened. He discussed the new initiatives with officials. He also touched on Middle School fine arts and the success that we are experienced. He also discussed some hopes for the Middle School program and activities including need for space—facilities upgrades, coaching support, recognition of numbers of students participating, and working at consistent soccer planning.
Bond Referendum
Superintendent Schneider reported on the status of the preparations for the March 1, 2022 election for the Bond Referendum. The Board Encouraged people present to get out to vote tomorrow..
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
There are plans to cancel the March 8th School Day as the Boys Basketball is playing at State. This day will be made up on April 15th. Should the boys win on Tuesday, School will be cancelled on March 10th. Should the boys win on Thursday, the next game will be March 11th and there will be a half day of school that day. Because of no School on March 8th, there will be no Wednesday early out. This will also change the Middle School Parent Teacher Conferences from March 10th to March 24th.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
Persons from the public spoke on issues related to bullying and actions that may need to be taken. The citizens are working on solutions and asked to work with the District Diversity Committee.
Another person from the public shared concerns about the volunteer and visitor definitions in the Board Policy, and who is allowed to be in the building with students. A parent that served the on the committee shared concerns about the policy and how it is being carried out if the information shared on social media is accurate.
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of February 14, 2022;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for February 28, 2022;
Open Enrollment Requests
Elizabeth Steele requests Zayden Liles (Grade 1), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Shantell Krabill requests Gabriel Krabill (Grade 3) and Nita Krabill (Grade 1), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Daniel Grove requests Cael Grove (Grade 9), and Myles Grove (Grade 11) attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Megan Morrison requests Emma Morrison (Grade 1) and Makenna Morrison (Grade 3), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Sue Gingerich requests Elise Gingerich (Grade 9), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Nathaniel Lavely requests Edward Lavely (Grade 2), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Karen Shafer-Waters requests Reece Waters (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Madelynn Dickinson requests Reid Dickinson (Alternative Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Sarah Stoutner requests Reese Stoutner (Alternative Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Nikaia Feltes requests Emmerson Feltes (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Brittany Coleman requests William Bethel (Grade 8) and Jordan Ernst (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Joy Kim requests Isaac Kim (Grade 9) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Andrew Klewin requests Celina Klewin (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Chad and Jessica Engelkes requests Blake Engelkes (Grade 1), Chase Engelkes (Grade 9), Katelyn Engelkes (Grade 5), and Kimberly Engelkes (Grade 8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Shannon Babbitt requests David Babbitt (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Cody and Kelli Bateman request Zane Bateman (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Elisabeth Chiang requests Susan Chiang (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Lindsey Griffin requests Edith Griffin (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Shawna Haines requests Aria Haines (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Teresa Naso requests Lilia Naso (Grade 12) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Maria Scott requests Adia Scott (Grade 6) and Dalton Scott (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Amanda Stamp requests Benjamin Stamp (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kelsey Steffen requests Peter Steffen (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Aaron Stump requests Oliver Stump (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Laura Whitmore requests Brenton Whitmore (Kindergarten) and Katlyn Whitmore (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Rachel Gray requests Eden Gray (Grade 2), Lena Gray (Grade 4), Micah Gray (Kindergarten), Noah Gray (Grade 8), and Zoe Gray (Grade 6) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Thomas and Shyra Warwick request Myles Warwick (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Ryan and Christine Oberman request Amelia Oberman (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Lauren Thomsen requests Jonathan Thomsen (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Solon Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Philip and Nicole Gross request Mackenzie Gross (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Mari Ethridge requests Mack Ethridge (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Karenza Yoder requests Liam Yoder (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Madeleine Westfall request Kevin Westfall (Grade 11) attend Highland Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Nicole Castillo, High School Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Contract issued to Matt Freel, High School Girls Assistant Track Coach, $2,960 per annum;
Contract issued to Aaron Coghlan, Middle School Track Coach, $2,473 per annum;
Contract issued to Brad Tornow, High School Assistant Baseball Coach, $2,850 per season;
Resignation of Nikole Eichelberger, First Grade Teacher, $43,437 per annum, effective the end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Ames Molsberry, Third Grade Teacher, $48,188 per annum, effective the end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Cyndi Michel, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.39 per hour, effective February 28, 2022;
Fundraising Requests
High School Boys Basketball requests approval to raise funds through the sale of State Basketball T-Shirts using the on-line store with proceeds to be used for apparel for players, coaches, payment for volunteer coaches and team equipment;
Timberline Service Agreement – Agreement to provide Medicaid Billing and Data evaluation services;
Jake Snider seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Board President Pickard asked the Board to consider a Board Education Activity with Tammi Drawbaugh with IASB to provide input and to discuss topics pertinent to the Mid-Prairie School Board. Discussion of potential dates either before a Board Meeting on a day not on the night of a Board Meeting. The Board in general agreement that this is a great idea. It is preferred that it would be in an evening. President Pickard will send out a survey to determine the most preferred time in April with the dates that work in Drawbaugh’s schedule.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, March 21, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room as Monday, March 14, 2022 is the first day of Spring Break week.
Gabrielle Frederick moved that the meeting currently scheduled on March 14, 2022, be moved to March 21, 2022 at 6:15 p.m. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 7-0.
With the change in dates, it was noted that releasing bills will take place prior to the next Board Meeting with the Board approving the payment of bills after the fact. The Board appeared to be comfortable with this reality.
Agenda items for the March 21, 2022 will include: A report on bullying; A work session item to discuss new Staff hiring policies; A work session item to discuss the governor’s announced SSA of 2.5% and February 17, 2022 law a $1,000 retention bonus paid by state monies with some restrictions – is there something that we need to do for Support Staff; and discussion of the definition of a visitor and a volunteer as outlined in the Board Policy.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
February 14, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
Home School Assistance Program Presentation
Rachel Kerns, Home School Assistance Program Director and her Assistant Director Molly Steinbrech provided a presentation to the Board. Currently there are 481 students from 21 different districts in the Mid-Prairie Home School Assistance Program. They shared the daily activities in the building ranging from 118 students to 50+ on any given day. There are 82 students in the Strings Program and 30+ students in the Band Program. There is a focus on parent directed learning within the HSAP program. There are parent led club programs as well in the building with emphasis on building community within the programs. A handout with the highlights of the program was provided by Kerns and Steinbrech. Graduates of the MP HSAP program will total between 20 to 22 students in 2022, compared to 27 in the class of 2021. The Board expressed appreciation for the work of the HSAP personnel and asked questions about the program and comparability to other districts with HSAP programs.
Bond Referendum
Superintendent Schneider reported on the status of the preparations for the March 1, 2022 election for the Bond Referendum. He reported on various speaking engagements and meetings with various groups to discuss the projects and to answer questions. He shared about upcoming meetings at the Middle School and High School. He discussed a mailing that will be released later this week to educate the constituencies. He also noted the various social media postings. The Board asked questions about the activities and discussed sentiments that are being heard on the projects and the two questions on the ballot.
Guidance Counselor and High School English Teacher Positions
Superintendent Schneider and High School Principal Chuck Banks discussed the proposal to increase the FTE for a High School English Teacher from 0.5 FTE to 1.0 FTE. This will provide opportunities for additional English Language Arts Courses to be offered while also allowing class sizes to remain as low as possible as our Student Population Increase. Current class sizes for English 9 and English 10 are approximately 18 students. In addition, finding a quality half-time teacher has proven to be extremely difficult from past experience.
Superintendent Schneider and High School Principal Banks and Middle School Principal Rob Hruby discussed the proposal to add a 1.0 FTE Grades 5 to 12 Guidance Counselor to be shared between the Middle School and High School. Due to the increased need for social emotional health support, transitional support, increasing class size, and other factors, the administrative team recommends this additional position. In the current situation, the High School and Middle School Counselors find themselves in a reactive mode. Adding this position would also allow the position currently shared between East Elementary and Middle School to support only elementary students. Roles, responsibilities and schedules with a new position and current staff would be determined later based upon needs and strengths. Both positions would be proposed to start in August of 2022.
300 Series, School Board Policies - Administration
Superintendent Schneider led the Board through a review of the 300 Series School Board Policies. He started the review by discussing the IASB model policies and comparing them to the current policies in place for the District. He started at the beginning of the section and progressed in numerical order. At 7pm, the Board transitioned to the Business portion of the meeting with intent to continue and complete this agenda item at the end of the Business portion of the meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of January 24, 2022;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for January 2022;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for February 14, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Donny Kading requests Allison Kading (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy from Benton Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Denny and Marnie Schrader request Caroline Schrader (Grade 8), Holden Schrader (Grade 5), Madeline Schrader (Grade 11) and Gavin Schrader (Grade 4), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Crystal Carr requests Jackson Carr (Grade 3), Cameron Carr (Grade 7), and Weston Carr (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Dawn Stultz requests Jesse Stultz (Grade 9), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Tamara Buchmayer requests Kristy Buchmayer (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Marisa Tulliana-Holtz and Joseph Holtz request Benjamin Lopiccalo (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Tri-County Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Michael Barr requests Josiah Barr (Grade 6) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Hannah Liddell requests Ezekiel Liddell (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Kelly Nebel requests Clark Nebel (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Carla Seele requests Sophia Seele (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from West Liberty Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Justin and Shalee Slaubaugh request Maple Slaubaugh (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Kathryn Schneider, Middle School Softball Coach; $1,827.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Olivia Tucker, 8th Grade Boys Basketball Assistant Coach; $1,522.50 per annum;
Contract issued to Jamie Clark, 7t Grade Track Coach, $2,217 per season;
Contract issued to Beth Reeves, High School Math Teacher for 2022-2023 School Year, $62,101.00 per annum (2021-2022 Contract Equivalent);
Resignation of Jeff Murphy, High School Assistant Football Coach, $4,138.00 per annum, effective 1/27/2022;
Resignation of Norman Brooks, Middle School and HSAP Band Director, $64,729 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Beth Spenler, East Elementary and Middle School Special Education Teacher, $64,729 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Kurtis Broeg, High School Teacher; $65,834 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Jessica Nafziger, Middle School Nurse, $43,437 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Marian Marley, High School Science Teacher, $64,137 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Resignation of Katelynn Barthelman, East Elementary Second Grade Teacher, $43,437 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Caitlyn Carlson, West Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, $42,203 per annum, effective end of the 2021-2022 Contract Year;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie Dance Team requests approval to raise funds through sponsorship letters to raise funds for uniforms, costumes, poms, choreography fees, accessories, banquet items, and team awards;
Mid-Prairie Boys and Girls Golf Teams request approval to raise funds through a 1-day indoor golf clinic to purchase practice equipment, greens fees, driving range fees, coaches gear, and food for all day tournament plans;
FCCLA and the High School Student Leadership Team request approval to raise funds through the Mid-Prairie Mini Dance Marathon and related activities for helping children and families experiencing childhood cancer;
Synchrony Contract
Contract with Synchrony to renew the Employee Assistance Program Contract for a twelve-month time period.
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Guidance Counselor Position
Board President Pickard asked if there were any further questions on the recommendation to add a shared Guidance Counselor between the Middle School and High School.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the recommendation to add a 1.0 FTE Position for Guidance Counselor to be shared by the Middle School and High School starting with the 2022-2023 School Year. Jake Snider seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
High School English Teacher
Board President Pickard asked if there were any further questions on the recommendation to add a full-time High School English Teacher position. The Board asked questions about the program and candidate qualifications.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the recommendation to add a 1.0 FTE High School English Teacher from the current 0.5 FTE starting with the 2022-2023 School Year. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
2022 2023 School Calendar
Superintendent Schneider shared the 2022-2023 School Calendar and Calculation of Instructional Hours documents for the 2022-2023 School Year as recommended by the IBB Committee. There are an increased number of early outs due to a change in the schedule at the Middle School that shifts the shortest school day to East Elementary for next year. The shortest building school day increases by 10 minutes from the 2021-2022 School Year. Board members discussed the timing of certain days off before or after certain breaks and the impact upon student attendance.
Denise Chittick moved to approve 2022-2023 School Calendar as presented. Gabriella Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-1 with Pickard voting no.
Finance
HSEC Ventilation Bids
Superintendent Schneider and Shive-Hattery’s Tim Fehr reported on the February 8, 2022 bid document opening for the Home School Education Center Ventilation Project. There were three bidders for the project with bids ranging from $574,200 to $607,000. The low bid was roughly $200,000 over the initial estimate primarily due to the materials and mechanicals—inflation factors have a significant impact on HVAC trades. While it is believed that these prices could come down, though it is a matter of timing and when, there is also a concern by the Board that prices may not go down, but continue to trend up. While this project was projected to come from ESSER III, these bids exceed the amount planned from ESSER III. The overage would need to come out of SAVE or PPEL. It is recommended the bid be awarded to City Construction Newco LLC at the bid amount of $574,200 contingent on their written acknowledgement of the addendum and honoring their bid amount.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to award the bid to City Construction Newco LLC for the HSEC Ventilation Project in the amount of $574,200 contingent on receipt of their written acknowledgement of the addendum and verification of the bid. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Flexibility Account Spending Resolution
Superintendent Schneider noted that the Flexibility Transfer Account Resolution was passed at the January 24, 2002 Board Meeting. The resolution passed allowed for the transfer of $259,000 from Home School Assistance Program to the Flexibility Account. A resolution is also required to approve the spending and spending plan for the funds transferred to the Flexibility Account.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve Resolution 021422 Directing Expenditures from the Flexibility Fund and read pertinent parts of the resolution. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
300 Series, School Board Policies - Administration
Superintendent Schneider continued the review of the 300 Series School Board Policies at the point in the policy series where the earlier Work Session agenda item was halted. The Series 300 School Board Policies review was completed. Next steps are to make the changes as noted in the review and bring the changes back to the Board for review of changes and approvals.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
The Colors activity would be something to be considered. IASB on-site Board orientation to on-board new board members.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, February 28, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Transportation Report, Middle School Activities Report, and discussion about the first Board Meeting in March.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie High School Multi-Purpose Room, Wellman, IA 52356
January 24, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.
Vice-President Marianne Schlabach chaired the meeting as President Jeremy Pickard will be unable to be present at the meeting in its entirety. Marianne Schlabach called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard (left the meeting at 6:53 p.m.), Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Mary Allred and Jeremy Pickard (left the meeting at 6:53 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Jeremy Pickard moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
Dinner with New Employees
The Board invited all new employees for the past two School Years to share a meal with the Board during this time, a count of 20+ new employees joined the Board. Superintendent Schneider started the meeting this portion of the meeting after the meal. The Board Members and new staff introduced themselves to each other.
Jeremy Pickard left immediately after this agenda item ended at 6:53 p.m.
Music Program Presentation
Collette McClellen provided a presentation to the Board on her High School curriculum, philosophy, and the various support for students. She also walked through the performance calendar and behind the scenes efforts for the year. The Board Members thanked her for her investment in our students and program.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m. – No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of January 10, 2022;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for January 24, 2022;
Open Enrollment Requests
Michelle Phillips requests Arkana Allen (Grade 6) and Xavier Allen (Grade 2), attend Mid-Prairie from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Logan and Faith Lee request Layken Lee (Grade 7) and Trig Lee (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Krystal McFadden requests DeClan McFadden (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Mark and Gwen Hostetler request Rachel Hochstetler (Grade 7) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Amy Hartsock-Williams, High School Head Softball Coach, $6,427.20 per season;
Work Agreement issued to Tanya Kennedy, Paraprofessional East Elementary; $14.18 per hour;
Fundraising Requests
FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through the sale of strawberries from February 2nd to 16th in order to provide leadership events, community service projects, and school service projects;
Middle School Student Leadership Team and High School FCS Classes request approval to raise funds through donations for the cost of an Etiquette Dinner learning experience for Eighth Grade Students;
Appointment of Level I Investigators for the Mid-Prairie School District
The Principals are appointed as Level I Investigators – Amy Shalla, Rachel Kerns, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Chuck Banks, and Frank Slabaugh are named. Superintendent Schneider is appointed as the First Alternate to the Level I Investigators.
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Student Learning
Honor Girls Cross Country
Superintendent Schneider recognized the High School Girls Cross Country Team and Mark Hostetler for their success in winning 5 consecutive state cross country titles. The Board thanked Mark for not only the success of the program on the course, but building character and other positive traits within each individual in the program.
Public Hearing at 7:15 PM – Fund Transfer to Flexibility Account
Board Vice-President Schlabach opened the Public Hearing for comments and questions on the $259,000 proposed transfer of funds from the Home School Assistance Fund Balance to the Flexibility Account. No one from the public commented. Schlabach closed the Public Hearing at 7:17 p.m.
Fund Transfer to Flexibility Account
Vice-President Schlabach asked for a motion to approve the Flexibility Account Transfer Resolution.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Resolution 012422 Flexibility Fund Transfer from the Home School Assistance Program Fund Balance to the Flexibility Account in the amount of $259,000 and read pertinent parts of the Resolution. Denise Chittick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - absent
Jed Seward - yes
Jeremy Pickard - absent
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 5-0.
Public Hearing – 7:20 PM – HVAC Specifications, HSEC
Vice-President Schlabach opened the Public Hear for comments and questions on the HVAC Project Specifications. Tim Fehr, Shive-Hattery representative was present to provide input and to answer questions. Tim provided brief comments on the Home School Education Project. The project is to be started during the 2022 Summer break with a system startup date in the third week of August. No one from the public spoke. The Board asked questions about the project of Fehr for clarification.
Second Reading, School Board Policy 407.1, Licensed Employee Resignation
Superintendent Schneider reviewed for the Board Policy 407.1, which allows the Board to set an annual incentive for licensed employees resigning their employment with the district after the current year. At the meeting of January 10, 2022, the Board passed on First Reading the Policy 407.1 with changes to the incentive dates of the non-renewal incentive for licensed early resignations for the 2021-2022 School year to the third Friday in February, and prior to the third Friday of March.
Gabrielle Frederick made the motion to approve on Second Reading Board Policy 407.1 a non-renewal incentive for licensed early resignations for the 2021-2022 School year to the third Friday in February, and prior to the third Friday of March. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Determine Incentive for Early Resignation of Licensed Employees
Superintendent Schneider then discussed the proposed amounts for 2021-2022 Fiscal Year as these amounts are to be set each year. He recommends the incentive for the third Friday in February to be $2,000 and by the third Friday in March to be $1,000. The Board discussed the amounts proposed and asked additional questions for clarification.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the amount of $2,000 as the incentive for the Third Friday in February and the amount of $1,000 as the incentive before the third Friday in March in Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Bond Referendum Discussion
Superintendent Schneider led the discussion of the current status for the preparations for the March 1, 2022 election for the Bond Referendum. There are two types of posters available to be placed around the community. A website is set to go live on Tuesday or Wednesday, January 25-26, 2022 to include a number of items to educate and communicate the projects and process. There are two questions on the ballot. The first question will contain the issuance of $26,300,000.00 of General Obligation Bonds. The second question will be asked for the Debt Service Levy Rate to be raised from the current $2.70 per thousand dollars of assessed value to $4.05 per thousand dollar of assessed value. Both questions need to pass the election by 60% majority plus one vote in order for the proposed projects to proceed. Schneider presented the various educational resources that have been developed including the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document, the visual boards of the projects, and the website with the information. He asked for input on the FAQ document for additions, or changes. The Board clarified that the Debt Service Levy Rate is anticipated to increase to $3.30 from the current $2.70 and not go to the $4.05 highest new rate. The Board asked questions and made observations about the current information available. The Board expressed appreciation for the ideas already in place and in development to make this information readily available to educate the public.
Work Session
300 Series, School Board Policies - Administration
Superintendent Schneider asked that this agenda item be tabled to the next meeting due to time constraints in the review of the policies.
Board Development and In-service Activities – None for this meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday February 14, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Board Policy Series 300, Home School Program Presentation, HSEC HVAC Bids, and Flexibility Funds Spending Resolution.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
January 10, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:20 p.m.).
Board members absent: Gabrielle Frederick and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:20 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 5-0.
WORK SESSION
District Family and Consumer Science Program
Glenda Seward, High School FCS Teacher and Carrie Schweitzer, Middle School FCS Teacher presented the District FCS program approach and philosophy for the Board. Schweitzer started by discussing the Middle School program for grades 6 to 8 with sewing, “at home” cooking, and nutrition skills. She provided some plans/options/dreams for future curriculum for students. Seward discussed the High School program. She noted that Sarah O’Rourke teaches human services and Seward teaches the culinary courses. These two pathways in High School FCS are open to all students. Seward discussed the course offerings for both pathways. She also discussed the career possibilities in both pathways. Seward finished the presentation with the Greenhouse project where they grow herbs and plants for use in the classes. The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding. The Board thanked the teachers for their commitment to the students and the programs.
Jake Snider arrived during this agenda items at 6:20 p.m.
Teacher Recruitment and Retention
President Pickard requested this agenda item in recognition of current teacher shortages and future issues related to teacher recruitment and retention. Superintendent Schneider discussed the continued issues related to staffing. Schneider noted a list of ideas to begin to brainstorm the issue. The list includes the Early Resignation incentive, Teacher Academy with Kirkwood, Guaranteed Interview for Mid-Prairie Alumni, Signing Bonus for hard to fill positions, Helping to Pay Student Loans of teachers, Attendance/Wellness Bonus, and Teacher Apprenticeships for students interested in teaching—currently this is not possible per legislature, but could be an idea to push out to the Department of Education and to State Legislators. Pickard and Schneider encouraged other ideas from the Board and other in attendance. Ideas included: Housing Allowance for living in the District, peanutbutter.com is a place to look, building trades program to build a house in the District for apprenticeships and/or pre-apprenticeships experiences, retention incentives for teachers at milestone years, and a suggestion to poll teachers on types of ideas that seem to be appealing to teachers.
Licensed Employee Resignation
Superintendent Schneider discussed the need to set values and timing for the current Board Policy 407.1 on Licensed Employee Resignation Policy for 2021-2022 School Year. This allows the District to begin to recruit open positions earlier. He discussed some options to either move up the date in the two levels for the early resignation incentives or the expanded to 3 levels. One idea he noted with the 3 levels was to have the first Incentive by the second Friday in February; second Friday in March; and third incentive be the second Friday in April. The Board discussed that maybe the two dates should be moved to the third Friday of February and March. Action could be taken during the Business Meeting.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Rachel Kerns of the Home School Program noted the very positive changes between Home School and Virtual Academy. Virtual Academy will have 18 students for the second semester. Board member Snider expressed concerns for teachers stress levels increasing. Recognition for the short term versus long term impacts was expressed for these stress levels. Discussion on these concerns will continue as part of teacher recruitment and retention.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda– Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of December 13, 2021, and December 20, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for December 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for January 10, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Tim and Molly Davin request Thomas Davin (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;
Morgan Rodgers requests Antone Larimer (Grade 10) and Jasper Larimer (Grade 10), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Megan Libe requests Noelle Star (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Aaron Coghlan, MS Assistant Boys 7th Grade Basketball, $1,766.10 per annum;
Contract issued to Lynnette Poll, HS Assistant Girls/Boys Track Coach, $3,617.46 per season;
Resignation of Lynnette Poll, MS Girls Track Coach, $3,028.82 per season, effective December 16, 2021;
Fundraising Requests – None presented at this time;
Jed Seward seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
Resolution Ordering an Election on the Issuance of $26,300,000 General Obligation Bonds
President Pickard noted the Resolution to Order the Election for the General Obligation Bonds with the presentation of the petitions by the public to Pickard and Gabrielle Frederick. Upon passage of the resolution, the goal is to begin to educate the voters on the project and details of the questions on the ballot. The last bond election in 2014 passed with 74% approval while requiring 60% plus one vote to pass. The Board expressed appreciation for the past strong community support of these types of projects.
Board Secretary Swartzentruber informed the board the petition drive by the public constituencies of the Mid-Prairie Community School District have produced more than the 272 minimum signatures required from eligible electors to call for a Bond Referendum on March 1, 2022. The 272 signature requirement represents 25% of the 1,085 voters who cast votes in the November 2, 2021 School Board Election from the three counties—Washington, Johnson, and Iowa—in which the boundaries of the Mid-Prairie Community School District fall. The actual signature received totaled nearly 500.
Superintendent Schneider summarized the Resolution as it includes both the Proposition—Election Item—to Issue $26,300,000 of General Obligation Bonds and the Proposition; and the Election Item—to raise the maximum levy rate for Debt Service from $2.70 per Thousand Dollars to $4.05 per Thousand Dollars.
The Board discussed the Resolution contents and the maximum Debt Service Levy Amount in the education of the constituencies as to the upper limit and that it cannot go higher than the current proposal on this bond referendum allows for with the $26,300,000 issue with the estimate that bond proceeds would raise the debt levy from the $2.70 maximum by $0.60 to $3.30 per thousand. The $3.30 is much below the $4.05 per thousand. There is no intent to go to $4.05 at this time should the referendum pass.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Resolution Ordering a Special Election on the Issuance of $26,300,000.00 General Obligation School Bonds and on raising the maximum Debt Service Levy to $4.05 per thousand of assessed value by reading portions of the prepared Resolution. Jake Snider seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - absent
Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Subsequent to passage of the resolution Superintendent Schneider again emphasized the educational efforts that need to begin. These efforts may not begin in the many facets needed.
Behavioral Special Education Paraprofessional
Superintendent Schneider discussed the need for a Behavioral Paraprofessional at East Elementary School. A high level position description was shared with the Board. There are a significant number of students with behavioral education plans.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the creation of a position for a Special Education Behavioral Paraprofessional at East Elementary School. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
SBRC Request for Additional Allowable Growth for At-Risk & Drop Out Prevention Program
Superintendent Schneider introduced the annual resolution for consideration. The request is for Modified Supplemental Aid for 2022-2023 Dropout Prevention Program of $254,665.00 to implement the At-Risk and Dropout Prevention program plans. The local match component is $84,888.00. It is recommended that the Board pass this resolution prior to the January 15, 2022 deadline.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the resolution by reading Resolution 011102201 for Additional Allowable Growth for Modified Supplemental Aid of $254,665.00 for implementation of the 2022-2023 School Year At-Risk and Dropout Prevention program plans. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - absent
Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
First Reading, School Board Policy 407.1, Licensed Employee Resignation
Superintendent Schneider spoke about Board Policy 407.1 which allows the Board to set an annual incentive for licensed employees resigning their employment with the district after the current year. Quality replacements can be hired more easily. During the Work Session he suggested the amounts for the Licensed Employee Resignation Policy for 2021-2022 School Year to be expanded to 2 or 3 incentive dates and for this year. Incentive by the third/second Friday in February; second/third Friday in March; and/or the second Friday in April.
Marianne Schlabach made the motion to approve on First Reading of Board Policy 407.1 a non-renewal incentive for licensed early resignations for the 2021-2022 School year to the third Friday in February, and prior to the third Friday of March. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Finance
Set Date and Time for Fund Transfers to Flexibility Account
Superintendent Schneider noted that a Public Hearing for the transfer of Flexibility Funds from the Home School Assistance Program to the General Fund needs to be set. The amount to be transferred from the Home School Assistance Program is $259,000. These are unspent funds available after the HSAP has completed the program expenditures for the prior year. The Public Hearing is proposed for Monday, January 24, 2022 at 7:15 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Multi-Purpose Room.
Marianne Schlabach moved to set the Public Hearing on Flexibility Fund Transfer for January 24, 2022 at 7:15 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie High School Multi-Purpose Room. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Adult Lunch Prices
Superintendent Schneider noted the current Adult Lunch Price for the 2021-2022 School Year is set at $3.85. Per the State Nutrition Procedures, this price is $0.10 too low. The Price needs to be raised to $3.95 for an adult lunch effective immediately. Board action is required to raise the price.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the price of an Adult Lunch at $3.95 effective immediately. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Ahlers Cooney Agreement
Superintendent Schneider noted the engagement letter with Ahlers Cooney dated December 27, 2021 for the agreement to between the District and Ahlers Cooney to work on the various bond issues under consideration up to and after the Bond Referendum on March 1, 2022. Upon approval the letter will need to be signed by School Board President Pickard.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Engagement Letter with Ahlers Cooney for Mid-Prairie School District Bond Election – 2022 as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
ESSER HVAC Projects
Superintendent Schneider shared the Scope and Cost Estimates prepared by Shive-Hattery, Architects the cost of the Middle School Media Center and Choir Room HVAC Upgrades for $330,000, and the cost of the Home School Education Center (HSEC) HVAC Upgrade for $370,000. The HSEC project will be taken from the ESSER III (COVID) Funds. As the Middle School project has not been discussed before, it could be moved out of the public hearing and bidding queue and held until the bond issue is approved or taken from SAVE Funds at a later time. However, it is noted that the age of the Middle School HVAC Units are beginning to create a more urgent need, yet not yet an emergency. A Public Hearing needs to be set for the public to review the form and specifications for the project or projects on January 24, 2022 at 7:20 p.m.
Marianne Schlabach moved to set the Public Hearing on the Home School Education Center HVAC project specifications for January 24, 2022 at 7:20 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie High School Multi-Purpose Room. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Nothing was added at this time.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, January 24, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Two Public Hearings set this evening; and a Presentation by Music Departments in the District.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
December 20, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Marianne Schlabach. Motion carried 7-0.
Public Hearing – 6:20 PM – Proposed Issuance of Approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds
President Pickard opened the Public Hearing for comments and questions. No one was present for comment. No comments were made. Pickard closed the public hearing at 6:21 p.m.
Resolution to Approve Supporting the Proposed Issuance of Approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds
Pickard asked for a motion on the resolution to support the issuance of the $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Resolution Supporting the Proposed Issuance of Approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds and read portions of the resolution. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Secure Entries Report at District Attendance Centers
As required by State Law, Superintendent Schneider reported the District priorities and solutions in the use of revenues for secure entries of the District’s Attendance Centers. This report is required before the District expends Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenues for athletic facility infrastructure projects. His report, with the use of a prepared document includes 27 actions taken for building security to date, was shared in detail with the School Board and those present for the meeting. He expanded on the entrance security at each of the four Attendance Centers and the Home School Education Center. The Board asked questions for clarification of a number of the 27 items.
Public Hearing – 6:35 PM – Proposed use of SAVE Bonds for an Athletic Infrastructure Project
President Pickard opened the Public Hearing for comments and questions. No one was present for comment. No comments were made. Pickard closed the public hearing at 6:37 p.m.
Resolution to Support the Proposed Use of SAVE Bonds for Athletic Infrastructure Project
Pickard asked for a motion on the resolution to support the proposed use of SAVE Bonds for Athletic Infrastructure Project.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Resolution to Support the Proposed Use of SAVE Bonds for Athletic Infrastructure Project and read portions of the resolution. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:39 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
December 13, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach (arrived at 6:25 p.m.), Jed Seward (arrived at 6:49 p.m.), and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:18 p.m.).
Board members absent: Marianne Schlabach (arrived at 6:25 p.m.), Jed Seward (arrived at 6:49 p.m.), and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:18 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 4-0.
WORK SESSION
District Computer Science Program
Rob Hruby, Middle School Principal introduced a group of teachers representing all buildings to discuss the Computer Science Program in the District. They began with defining Computer Science within the Mid-Prairie District as a whole, and reviewed the recent timeline of events for the program. Then they focused on the educational programs for Computer Science at the Elementary, Middle School, and High School levels specifically. The provided examples of activities used with students and had the Board participate in an activity. The Board expressed appreciation for the program and the efforts of the teachers to bring this into the classrooms.
Jake Snider arrived at 6:18 p.m. during this agenda item.
Marianne Schlabach arrived at 6:25 p.m. during this agenda item.
Jed Seward arrived at 6:49 p.m. during this agenda item.
Bond Issue Updates
Superintendent Schneider discussed the current status of the on-going work with regard to initiatives for a Bond issue referendum for March 1, 2022. On Monday, December 6th, a group of community people met in the Community Room to discuss the process and the petitions and strategies to work at getting the petitions signed by January 5, 2022, with a goal of 850 signatures. If enough signatures are gathered, the Board could act to proceed with the Bond referendum on March 1, 2022. Schneider then asked for input from the Board on the types of questions to be included in the Frequently Asked Questions document.
School Board Policies Review – Series 300 Marianne Schlabach arrived at 6:25 p.m. during this agenda item.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of November 11, 2021, and December 6, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for November 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for December 10, 2021; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
John Duder requests Katie Duder (Grade 10), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Hannah Liddell requests Boaz Liddell (Grade 1) and Josiah Liddell (Grade 3) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
No Contracts to be issued at this time;
Resignation of Stacy Jack, High School English Teacher, $19682.30 per annum, effective December 31, 2021;
Fundraising Requests – No Fund Raising Requests Presented for Approval;
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
High School Physical Education Exemption for Block Scheduling
Superintendent Schneider introduced and explained the Chapter 12 Waiver for High School PE. The District meets the requirements for in class minutes but not the day’s requirement because of the Block Scheduling of classes for students. As a result, an exemption needs to be applied for so students meet the requirements. It is requested that the Board approve the application for the exemption. The public was given an opportunity at this meeting for comment—no comments were brought to the Board.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve proceeding with the application of Exemption of the Chapter 12 Physical Education due to the fact that the high school has block scheduling. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Preschool Paraprofessionals
Superintendent Schneider outlined the need for a full-time Special Education Paraprofessional in the Preschool. Individual Education Plans (IEP) in the preschool program are higher with additional adult support required in the IEP’s of the students.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the creation of a Preschool Special Education Paraprofessional at West Elementary for the 2021-2022 School Year as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Superintendent Commitment Statement
Superintendent Schneider shared the document that is normally presented for discussion and signatures by the Board and Superintendent the meeting after completing the Superintendent Annual Evaluation. This document signals the Board’s intention, not legally binding, to extend a contract, or not, for the next School Year—2022-2023. The document was circulated and signed by Board members present and by Superintendent Schneider.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
School Board Policies Review – Series 300
Superintendent Schneider discussed the review process for Board Policies. He first discussed the overall process for reviewing the 10 specific School Board Policies Series. This year the Board needs to review the 300 and 400 Series Policies. He will first have the Policies for Series 300 shared to the Board for review. A Google document will be established for the Board to document any policies that board members wish to discuss. Schneider will also bring any updates that may be within the model policies from IASB. The Series 300 will be reviewed in January followed by Series 400 soon after.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
This agenda item is included from the earlier Work Session agenda items. A number of the Principals shared of happenings in the buildings. Superintendent Schneider reported that Cory Evans has started as Nutrition Director and is working with Amber Kempf, outgoing Nutrition Director.
Board Development and In-service Activities – Nothing reported at this time.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, January 10, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Presentation by K-12 Music, and Update on the Petition. Second Meeting in January is the Dinner for Board Members and New Employees.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
December 6, 2021 – 6:00 p.m.
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Jed Seward.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 6-0.
Finance
Set Public Hearing for Approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds
Superintendent Schneider discussed the process required for Public Hearing and information leading to the Resolution presented for consideration of the Board. The Board asked questions for clarification.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Resolution to set the Public Hearing for approximately $14,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Bonds on December 20, 2021 at 6:20 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Denise Chittick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jed Seward - absent
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Set the Public Hearing for Athletic Facility Infrastructure Project
Superintendent Schneider discussed the process required for Public Hearing and the Resolution presented for consideration of the Board. The Board asked questions for clarification.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Resolution to set the Public Hearing for the Proposed Use of the SAVE Revenue Bonds for an Athletic Facility Infrastructure Project on December 20, 2021, at 6:35 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jed Seward - absent
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:23 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
November 22, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
RETIRING SCHOOL BOARD ANNUAL MEETING
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel (retiring), Jodi Meader (retiring), Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach and Jed Seward (new) and Jake Snider (new).
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jodi Meader. Motion carried 7-0.
Consent Items
Marianne Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of November 8, 2021;
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Accept Election Results
The Official Abstract of Votes as canvassed by the three counties on November 16, 2021, for the November 2, 2021, election was presented to the Board for acceptance. A total of 2900 votes were cast in the election for 3 open seats. The top three candidates receiving votes are the persons to be seated in the seats. These include: Jed Seward with 560 votes, Gabrielle Frederick with 419 votes, and Jake Snider with 365 votes. The other six candidates received votes ranging in totals from 349 votes to 185 votes.
Mary Allred moved to accept the election results for the November 2, 2021 from the Official Abstract of Votes dated November 16, 2021. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Adjournment (Sine Die) The Board President adjourned “sine die” the final meeting of the 2020-2021 Board.
New Board of Education – Organization of the 2021-2022 Board
Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, called the meeting to order.
The Oath of Office was administered to Gabrielle Frederick, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider as the newly elected School Board members.
Next, the floor was opened for discussion for the Nominations for Board President and Vice-President.
Nominations for President of the Board of Directors for the 2021-2022 school year: Marianne Schlabach nominated Jeremy Pickard for President of the Board. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 6-0, with the nominee abstaining.
Nominations for Vice-President of the Board of Directors for the 2021-2022 school year; Gabrielle Frederick nominated Marianne Schlabach for Vice-President. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 6-0, with the nominee abstaining.
The Oath of Office was administered to NAME as President and to NAME as Vice-President.
Opening for the New School Board
President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 7-0.
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items. Superintendent Schneider spoke on behalf of the Nutrition Director recommendation to hire.
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for November 22, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests – None are presented for approval;
Personnel Items
Resignation of Taylor Gordon, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.61 per hour, effective November 22, 2021;
Resignation of Lori Schrock, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.39 per hour, effective December 21, 2021;
A contract is issued to Cory Evans, as full time Nutrition Director Position is presented to the Board for Consideration; he has been offered the position on a 217 day contract at $50,000 Salary, Starting date is December 6, 2021;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie Wrestling requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Soy Candles to be used to pay for volunteer coaches, coaches apparel, extra hotel rooms at state tournament, coaches fees, and funds towards the cost of a new wrestling room;
Mid-Prairie Student Boosters request approval to raise funds beginning February 1, 2022, through the day of the event on April 30, 2022 with a silent auction, raffle baskets and donations to support teacher and student activities for presentations, field trips, student challenge prizes and food for events;
The President of the Mid-Prairie Fine Arts Booster presented a request for approval to launch a Fundraiser for the Auditorium assuming approval of the project to sell a seat in the auditorium for $500 with a goal to raise $300,000 if all 600 seats are sold (others shared their support of the auditorium as well as a synopsis of the last 30 years of Fine Arts activity);
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Short and Long Term Planning
Washington and Johnson County Conference Boards
The board discussed who the representatives for these boards will be for the 2021-2022 School Year. Both boards work to approve the County Budget via the Assessor’s Office. It is noted that Gabrielle Frederick is the only Johnson County resident amongst the School Board Members. Gabrielle Frederick represented Mid-Prairie at Johnson County and Mary Allred represented Mid-Prairie at Washington County in the prior fiscal year.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Gabrielle Frederick as the Johnson County Representative to the Johnson County Conference Board and Jake Snider as the Washington County Representative to the Washington County Conference Board for the 2021-2022 School Year. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Two separate votes were taken on the motion. The Motions each carried 6-0 with Frederick and Snider each abstaining during their respective votes.
Interest Based Bargaining School Board Representative
The board discussed who the representatives from the Board will be for the 2021-22 School Year. Jeremy Gugel and Denise Chittick served in this capacity last year with approximately two meetings per month from November to March or April and scheduled to precede School Board meetings. The first meeting will be prior to the December 13th School Board meeting. Then future meetings will also be prior to the School Board meetings. Jed Seward and Denise Chittick both volunteered to serve for the upcoming year.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to appoint Jed Seward and Denise Chittick as the School Board Representatives to the Mid-Prairie School District Interest Based Bargaining Committee for 2021-2022 School Year. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Two separate votes were taken on the motion. The Motions each carried 6-0 with Frederick and Seward abstaining during their respective votes.
Second Reading – School Board Policy 906, Drones
Superintendent Schneider noted this agenda item passed on First Reading at the November 8th School Board Meeting. A request for comment or questions was made. The revised policy includes a provision for drones to be used for curricular and extra-curricular activities.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve School Board Policy 906, Drones on Second Reading as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
District Facilities Improvements
Superintendent Schneider shared that Carl A. Nelson has updated the Facilities’ Cost projections. He also handed out examples of the two potential ballot questions for review with comments that the wording would change to fit the proposal developed by the Board. Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson then presented from the handout the updated cost figures and discussed assumptions related to construction projects. The Board asked questions for clarification on project scope and cost. The Board reached consensus and are united in moving forward with proposals to the community and voters. Current cost estimates for the Facilities projects chosen are estimated at $37.6 million. Discussion turned to budget and resources. Private donors have committed $1.4 million to the Auditorium Project and is part of the resources with additional fundraising efforts expected by the Mid-Prairie community. The Board reached consensus on approach to bonding with $26 million proposed for General Obligation Bonds and $10.7 million from SAVE Fund Revenue Bonds. Potential tax rates for the General Obligation Bonds would increase the bond levy rates by $0.60 to $3.30. This is above the current approved limit of $2.70 for debt service. The Board gave Schneider the go ahead to work with legal counsel to write the two questions for a General Obligation Bond issue and for an increase to the maximum debt service tax rate to $4.05.
Set Date and Times of Public Hearing for SAVE (Sales Tax) Bonding
An allocation of the agreed upon Facilities Plan between the General Obligation Bonds and the bonding of SAVE Funds with Sales Tax Revenue Bonds needs to be established. A second Public Hearing on the same date may also be necessary if the Revenue Bonds include construction and/or purchase of extra-curricular buildings and assets. Once these are established a Public Hearing is required. The date for this Public Hearing is anticipated to be on Monday, December 13, 2021. Notices of the Public Hearing must be in The News newspaper by the December 2nd publication date.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to set the date for a Public Hearing on the Revenue Bonding using Sales Tax Revenue for Monday, December 13, 2021 at 7:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to set the date for a Public Hearing on the use of Revenue Bonding for extra-curricular construction purposes for Monday, December 13, 2021 at 7:30 p.m at the Central Office Community Room. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Resolution for Limited English Proficiency Additional Allowable Growth
Superintendent Schneider reported that the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Deficit for the 2020-2021 School Year was $11,502.20. These are costs in excess of the Categorical Funding. The amount for this year is less than the $15,927.86 requested for the 2019-2020 School Year. The LEP filing has been certified as required by the state before the September 15, 2021 deadline. In order to be not be impacted by this deficit, a resolution for increased Allowable Growth for a negative LEP Balance is required to be filed with the School Budget Review Committee through the Iowa Department of Education.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve Resolution 112221 for additional allowable growth of $11,502.20 to cover the 2020-2021 LEP costs in excess of funding. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jed Seward - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Casey’s Grant Application
Superintendent Schneider shared about the Casey’s Grant prepared by two Middle School Teachers to purchase non-traditional classroom furniture for their respective rooms. Their separate estimates for furniture costs are $6,650 and $7,175, respectively.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the process for applying for the Casey’s Grant for Furniture as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
IASB Convention
Denise Chittick, Mary Allred, and Gabrielle Frederick reported on their attendance at the IASB Convention in Des Moines on November 18th. Frederick also discussed the delegate session that took place on November 17th.
Annual Superintendent Evaluation – Closed Session
Gabrielle Frederick moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(1)(i), Code of Iowa. Seconded by Mary Allred.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jake Snider - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jed Seward - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board entered Closed Session at 8:46 p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 9:07 p.m.
Announcements -- None
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, December 13, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: The Public Hearing on SAVE Bonds, and the Superintendent Commitment Statement.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 9:09 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
November 8, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Jodie Meader moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
Career and Technical Education Site Visit
Chuck Banks, High School Principal, introduced High School Teachers - Glenda Seward, Sarah O’Rourke, Chris Tyler, Lucas Troyer, Chad Surom, and Elsa Schmidt discussed the October 6th Career and Technical Education Site Visit from Grant Wood AEA. The review documents will be sent to the State CTE Staff where the documents will also be evaluated. The staff discussed their individual area of focus and items that each will work on in the next year as a result of the site visit.
Elementary Math Interventionist Activities
Robin Foster, West Elementary Principal, introduced Emily Pennington, Elementary Math Interventionist. Pennington presented on her activities and approach to the new TLC role in the District. She started her work this School Year by screening all students from Kindergarten to Grade 2. She also screened a subset of 3rd and 4th graders as recommended by their classroom teachers. She is planning a Family Math Night for both East and West Elementary Schools—a new event for the District. The major focus this year is using the resources of Grant Wood AEA to teach 3 different math strategies, and this is underway. She is also working with a team to look at curriculum two years out.
District Facilities Plan
Discussion continued from previous meetings on the priority items for the Facilities Plan, possible funding sources available, and beginning dialogue on items that may need to be removed from the list to fit within resources raised via possible voted bond issuances.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Tabled to the next meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Tabled to the next meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of October 25, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for October 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for November 8, 2021; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Kaylee Love requests Eian Love (Grade 2), and Payton Love (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Tom Nye, Bus Driver, $23.63 per hour;
Work Agreement to Marla Jennings, High School Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Contract issued to Zeb Evans, MS Assistant Wrestling Coach, $1,583 per season;
Fundraising Requests – None Submitted
Jodi Meader seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
First Reading – School Board Policy 906, Drones
Superintendent Schneider introduced this agenda item. The current policy was developed to recognize the unique elements of personal flying devices that may be a part of the educational programs within the District. With Superintendent approval the revised policy includes a provision for drones to be used for curricular and extra-curricular activities. The board asked questions to clarify the changes.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve School Board Policy 906, Drones on First Reading as presented. Jeremy Pickard seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
School Bus Buds
The recommendation is to accept the lowest bid from Hoglund Bus Company for two School Buses with cargo capacity at $243,000 total after trade-in of two buses, or $121,500 per diesel-powered bus. Without the trade-in values the buses would be $126,000 each. These new buses will have air-conditioning.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the bid from Hoglund School Bus Sales in the amount of $243,000 for the purchase of two new cargo school buses recognizing the price is net of the trade-in value of two buses. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
SBRC Resolution for Additional Allowable Growth for Enrollment and ELL
Superintendent Schneider noted the additional allowable growth resolution that, if passed, will allow the District to increase spending authority of $87,395 for Open Enrollment Out and of $7,227 for ELL Beyond 5 Years. These amounts are a result of the Certified Enrollment data from the October 1, 2021, count date.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Resolution 110821 to allow the Superintendent to request increased spending authority of $87,395 on Open Enrollment Out for the 2020-2021 School year and $7,227 for ELL Beyond 5 Years. Jodi Meader seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jodi Meader - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jeremy Gugel - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
District Facilities Plan
The Board continued discussion from earlier in the meeting on project priorities and potential funding resources. The Board asked questions of the representatives of Shive-Hattery and Carl A. Nelson and Company who were present at the meeting. The list was narrowed and will be given to Shive-Hattery and Carl A Nelson and Company for final review prior to the next meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, November 22, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: The Superintendent evaluation, the new Board will be convened, and Second Reading of the Drone Policy 906.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:21p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
October 25, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick (arrived at 6:25 p.m.), Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Gabrielle Frederick (arrived at 6:25 p.m.) and Jeremy Pickard.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 5-0.
WORK SESSION
MS & HS Restorative Practices Presentation
Superintendent Schneider introduced Rob Hruby, Middle School Principal, and Chuck Banks, High School Principal, to discuss the Restorative Practices professional development implemented at the High School and Middle School. The resources are available for use in the classroom. Feedback from teachers has been broad, which has led to great conversations. Banks and Hruby led the group through a brief exercise. The value of Restorative Practices is about building and developing relationships.
Gabrielle Frederick arrived during this agenda item at 6:25 p.m.
District Facilities Plan
President Gugel and Superintendent Schneider continued the discussions of the past number of meetings on the District Facilities Plan. The intent of the continued discussions is to arrive at consensus of projects to be included for consideration at a proposed expansion and improvement of buildings and grounds within the District. Representatives from Shive-Hattery and Carl A. Nelson & Co. were present to answer questions. A timeline of events was shared for planning purposes. The discussion will continue after the business meeting as noted on the agenda.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Tabled to the next meeting.
Board Development and In-service Activities – Tabled to the next meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items after Schneider explained the Lone Tree 28E Agreement.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of October 11, 2021;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for October 25, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Andy and Deanne Townsend request Adin Townsend (Grade 4), Ahna Townsend (Grade 8), Anthony Townsend (Grade 2), and Ashton Townsend (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Kayla Lobermeier requests Theodore Haupt (Grade 1), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year
Stephanie Heisdorffer request Tristan Heisdorffer (Grade 4) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement Issued to Ashley Conrad, West Elementary Paraprofessional; $14.68 per hour;
Work Agreement Issued to Sue Kleese, High School Paraprofessional; $14.18 per hour;
Contract issued to Clint Jones, Middle School Wrestling Coach, $3,218.56 per season;
Resignation of Amber Kempf, Nutrition Director 0.60FTE, $23,646 per year, effective December 15, 2021;
Resignation of Nicole Castillo, High School Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour, effective October 19, 2021;
Resignation of Matt Hoeppner, Varsity Softball Head Coach, $4,434 per season, effective October 22, 2021;
Fundraising Requests – None presented;
Lone Tree Shared Teacher Agreement – Approve a 28E Shared Teacher Agreement with Lone Tree Community Schools for the 2021-2022 School Year.
Jodi Meader seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
Preliminary Enrollment Data
Superintendent Schneider shared enrollment data from the October 1, 2021 official count day. These numbers will not be finalized until the end of October. Additional work is ongoing to finalize elements for Special Education Numbers. Schneider explained the data. Certified Enrollment between 2020 and 2021 count dates appears that the District lost 16.76 students. He reported also on the Open Enrolled In students is a decrease of 4 students. Open Enrolled Out students increased by 14 students. The net impact of Open Enrollment is a net change of negative 18 students—this is not FTE but students served.
IASB Assembly Delegate
The board discussed who the representative from this board will be for the 2021-22 School Year. This year the delegate meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 17, 2021. It was noted that Gabrielle Frederick served in this capacity for the past two conventions. She explained what happens at the Delegate Session for Board Members and expressed thanks for the opportunity. She has volunteered to serve as delegate again.
Denise Chittick moved to appoint Gabrielle Frederick as the School Board Representative as the IASB Assembly Delegate. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Finance
Annual Audit RFP
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber shared that the FY 2021 Audit Engagement was the last one on the current agreement with Nolte, Cornman & Johnson, CPAs (Nolte) from Newton Iowa. The last RFP for auditors was conducted in the FY 2017 for a 5-year agreement. At that time, RFPs were sent out to 6 or 7 audit firms. Nolte was the only firm that responded. The price and process were reasonable. Prior to the last RFP, the previous agreement was extended for 2 additional years with Nolte. While it is the recommendation of the Superintendent and Business Manager to extend the agreement with Nolte for another 3 years, it is the Board decision as to whether to extend or move ahead to complete an RFP for Audit Services. Nolte has stated that they most often see 2 year extensions when an extension is requested. The Board asked questions for information and discussed the audit arrangement and outcomes.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve an extension of the current auditor relationship with Nolte, Cornman, & Johnson CPAs for an additional 3 years. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
District Facilities Plan
The discussion from the earlier Work Session agenda item continued. Discussion of costs and bidding in the current construction environment were led by Carl A. Nelson and Shive-Hattery representatives to highlight some of the current developments. Costing for the projects discussed in earlier meetings have been updated to reflect the estimates provided by Carl A. Nelson since the last meeting. Discussion then turned to the different alternatives to a number of the Middle School projects. Also discussed were elements of the High School renovations and potential options. President Gugel asked the Board to work to finalize research and questions in order to wrap up this phase of the process, if possible.
Announcements
Nothing added from earlier in the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, November 8, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Facilitates Plan move to final consensus, a presentation on MAPs Interventionist activity and CTE will also make a presentation.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
October 11, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jodi Meader. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
HSAP STEM Scale Up Awards
Home School Assistance Program Director, Rachel Kerns introduced Laura Mallory and Crystal Gingerich and introduced the three Scale Up Awards for Stem received these District-level awards. She then turned it over to Mallory and Gingerich. They discussed the Ioponics grant – Iowa + Aquaponics; the Code Joy grant—coding geared towards the younger students; and the Project Lead the Way: Medical Detectives – teaching students to collect and analyze data through taking vital signs and research using cultures and antibiotics. An experiment was conducted with Board Members and Administrative Staff present to take a sample of what was on the bottom of a shoe and then rubbed into a Petri dish. Results will be shared at a future meeting. The Board thanks the HSAP staff for their work and passion for the grants.
District Activities Update
Activities Director, Tyler Hotz, and Assistant Activities Director provided an Activities Update for the District. First, he discussed some items from the state level: There are currently 4 organizations for Activities within the state; Post season ticketing is now electronic but the two athletic associations are using different ticketing systems; Girls Wrestling developments; and Boys and Girls use of shot clock for basketball games—the latter would start in the 2022-2023 season for varsity contests. Second, at the RVC Conference Level changes for next year: North Cedar is out; Maquoketa and Dyersville-Beckman will join the conference; these changes will have most all activities, though Cross Country, Golf, Track, and Football will see minimal effect; and other sports will be split into 2 divisions with 2 crossover games getting the schedules to 14-15 games. It is anticipated that travel should decrease significantly. Third, there are shortages for Coaches and Officials are real within activities: Four significant reasons: Pay, Parents/Coaches, Schedule, and Promotion. Last, Fall seasons are near the end with post season events starting within the next 2 weeks. Winter activities start in early November and ramp up into December.
District Facilities Plan
Superintendent Schneider shared the discussions from the last Board meeting and asked for questions and additional input. The tours of the buildings over the past 2 meetings are also items of consideration. It was noted that the size of the auditorium has not yet been decided. Washington’s auditorium is 650 seats. Hillcrest Academy’s seats 557 fixed with the ability to add 100 chairs. The Board discussed the impact of the auditorium at 599 seats and the other projects that would be considered simultaneously for inclusion and deletion. Discussion continued at end of Business Meeting.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of September 27, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for September 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for October 11, 2021 and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Daniel and Pam Vercande request Caleb Vercande (Grade 11), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valley Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Taylor and Jesse Star request Skylar Starr (Kindergarten) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Nicolle Castillo, High School Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Resignation of Mariah Schlabach, Assistant Varsity Softball Coach, $3,069 per season, effective September 26, 2021;
Resignation of Cassidy Rourke, Middle Softball Coach, $1,900 per season, effective September 27, 2021;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie Baseball requests approval to raise funds through a Can Drive at the Kalona Sale Barn parking lot on October 30, 2021 to raise funds for equipment, supplies, and coaches apparel;
Lone Tree HSAP 28E Agreement – Approve the agreement between Mid-Prairie and Lone Tree Community School District to provide Home School Assistance Program services to students of the Lone Tree School District;
Field Trip to Niabi Zoo, Coal Valley, IL – Approve Special Education Students to Niabi Zoo on October 22, 2021, an out of state destination;
Jodi Meader seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
East Elementary Paraprofessional
Superintendent Schneider introduced this item and invited Amy Shalla to share. Shalla shared that students with IEPs at East Elementary where adult support is required has increased. Individualized Education Plans (IEP’s) outline the need for adult support for academic support, behaviors support, and monitoring for student safety. The new position would be a Special Education expenditure.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the creating of an additional paraprofessional position at East Elementary. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
West Elementary HVAC System
Superintendent Schneider discussed the current HVAC System at West Elementary and introduced recommendations of an outlined plan for improvement of the system. The District is currently soliciting bids for this improvement to begin during Christmas Break. As this will be in excess of $25,000 Superintendent Limit, maybe as high as $70,000, from two bidding contractors, Superintendent Schneider is requesting the Board to consider allowing him to select the lowest bid. The upgrade will be paid using SAVE Funds.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the upgrade of the West Elementary HVAC system and allow the Superintendent to select the lowest bid as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
HSEC HVAC System
Superintendent Schneider discussed the current HVAC System at the Home School Education Center and introduced recommendations of an outlined plan for improvement of the system. The upgrade will be paid using ESSER III Federal COVID Funds. A bid from Shive-Hattery has been received for $39,000 plus $2,500 for reimbursable expenses for the planning and oversight on a project estimate of $325,000 to $375,000. This does not include asbestos abatement as this will need to be bid out in addition to the project estimate as stated in the preceding sentence.
Mary Allred moved to approve the upgrade of the HSEC HVAC system and the hiring of Shive-Hattery as the project overseer as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Public Hearing – 7:30 P.M. – Bus Specifications
Board President Gugel opened the Public Hearing for School Bus Specifications. No one spoke. The Public Hearing closed at 7:31 p.m.
Approval of Bus Specifications
Superintendent Schneider and Board President Gugel asked the Board if there were any questions, clarifications or discussion for the School Bus Specifications as presented for two cargo buses.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the bus specifications as presented and to put the specifications for 2 School Buses out to bid with a due date of October 28, 2021 at 1 p.m. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
District Facilities Plan
Discussion resumed from the Work Session, refer to the minutes, above. The Board continued to discuss the various High School Projects priorities reaching consensus on additional projects and on projects to delete and projects to move to the future. The Board then moved to the Middle School large projects reaching consensus there before moving to peripheral and smaller projects. The Board was instructed to review the list prepared during this meeting with personally developing thoughts and lists and bring further discussion to the next meeting for refinement and consensus work.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Tabled to next meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Tabled to next meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, October 25, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: IASB Delegate Representative; Facility Discussion Continues, Certified Enrollment Numbers; Middle School and High School Restorative practices.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
September 27, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Mary Allred and Jeremy Pickard.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, and Frank Slabaugh.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented but move the High School Track Coach Agenda Item to the first thing after the Consent Agenda. Seconded by Jodi Meader. Motion carried 5-0.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 6:15 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of September 13, 2021;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for September 27, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Kimberly Decker requests Nevaeh Decker (Grade 10), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Julie Spears requests Joshua Spears (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Shawna Sieren, High School Assistant Girls Track Coach, $2,741 per annum;
Resignation of Sara Brown, High School Paraprofessional, $14.89 per hour, effective September 24, 2021;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie FFA requests approval to raise funds through the sales event of Fruit, Meat, Cheese and Popcorn from October 11th to November 11th in order to provide funds for FFA activities and travel expenses;
Mid-Prairie Volleyball requests approval to conduct a raffle with a corn hole game as a grand prize to raise money for a cancer awareness charity from September 15th to September 28th;
Mid-Prairie Boys Basketball requests approval to host a jamboree with an admission fee on November 22nd to be used for equipment, volunteer coaches pay, coaching gear, player shooting shirts, and the Kansas City trip expenses;
The Class of 2023 Prom Committee requests approval to do a holiday sweatshirt fundraising activity between October 14th and October 24th to purchase Prom decorations;
FFA Convention Indianapolis, IN October 27-30, 2021 is approved for students and staff to attend the out of state event.
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Student Learning
High School Track Coaching Positions
Superintendent Schneider and Girls Track Coach Chris Tyler discussed the need for an additional coach for the Track teams. They showed the stats of schools and student participation. The recommendation I to add one coach to be shared between the Boys Track Team and Girls Track Team to be determined by the coaches. Additional coaches would be done through fund raising by the Track teams.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the plan for one additional High School Track Coaching Positions as presented. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Finance
School Bus Specifications Set Date and Time for Public Hearing
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber discussed the ongoing need to keep the District School Bus Fleet up to date. A request for a Public Hearing to review the bus specifications for the purchase of up to two diesel powered, Yellow School Buses on October 11, 2021, at 7:30 p.m. The buses to be replaced are two compartment buses that currently provide capacity to haul equipment and students. The Transportation Department is also looking at the need to replace current cars within the District Fleet. This planning may require spreading the purchase of these two buses over two years.
Denise Chittick moved to set a Public Hearing for purpose of reviewing the specifications of up to 2 diesel powered school buses on Monday, October 11, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. at the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
SBRC Resolution for Additional Allowable Growth
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the SBRC Resolution for Additional Allowable Growth as a result of the Special Education Spending Deficit for the recently completed fiscal year ending on June 30, 2021. The reported deficit was $271,387.11 for last year as compared to $459,834.78 for the previous year. The request is rounded up to $275,000 to allow for any upward adjustment that might be found during the Department of Education’s year-end review.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Resolution 0925211 to authorize the Superintendent to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for additional allowable growth of up to $275,000 to cover the deficit in Special Education funding from the year ending June 30, 2021. Jodi Meader seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - absent
Jodi Meader - yes
Jeremy Pickard - absent
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jeremy Gugel - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 5-0.
Student Learning
District Facilities Plan
Superintendent Schneider and Board President Jeremy Gugel continued the District Facilities Plan Discussion. Focus area was on the spreadsheet of priorities. The Board began to make some suggestions for the Short Term Priorities on the spreadsheet from the Recommendations list previously presented by the Facilities Committee. The Board will again review the buildings visited tonight during the Work Session with the projects in mind.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
The annual IASB convention is November 18th. Preconference sessions are on November 17th. The itinerary and agenda for the conference are firmed up and near finalized. Let Jeff know what days you wish to be registered at this conference in the next few board meetings.
The judge extended the temporary restraining order for mask mandates another 14 days today.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
School Board Candidate Documents were delivered to the County Auditor’s office. There are 9 candidates for three seats in the November election.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, October 11, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Public Hearing; Facilities Planning, and Appoint IASB Delegate.
Work Session
Tour of District Facilities – 7:00 p.m.
The Board toured the High School, West Elementary and the Home School Education Center with all Principals and Lead Custodians present. This annual review allows Board Members to see the physical locations, review improvements from the Summer, and discuss the ongoing District planning and facility needs and priorities.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m. at the Home School Education Center.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
September 13, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: None
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jodi Meader. Motion carried 7-0.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of August 23, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for August 2021 and June 2021 Accrual Year End;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for September 13, 2021; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Amanda Alvis and Ronnie Schenkel request Alisha Garrels (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Jennifer Mize requests Ella Mize (Grade5) and Samantha Mize (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Tommy and Shyra Warwick request Brayden Warwick (Grade 9), Elijah Warwick (Grade 6), Miriam Warwick (Grade 4), and Titus Warwick (Grade 8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Alex Cole and Chris Williams request Ellianna Williams (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Kira Fikes requests Isabella Fikes (Grade 11), Gideon Fikes (Grade 5), Levi Fikes (Grade 7), Michaela Fikes (Grade 9), Nora Fikes (Kindergarten), Silas Fikes (Grade 6), and Titus Fikes (Grade 12) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Rachel Owen requests Elizabeth Owen (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from West Branch Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Joseph and Christina Taormina request Abigale Taormina (Grade 8) and Nathan Taormina (Grade 12) attend CAM Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Lisa McCain requests Brian McCain (Grade 5), Jonathan McCain (Grade 8), and Kanen McCain Grade 4) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Lisa Doser, Middle School Head Volleyball Coach 2, $3,219 per annum;
Contract issued to Paige Peiffer, Middle School Volleyball Assistant Coach (1-Year), $1,523 per annum;
Contract issued to Derek Kalm, Middle School Volleyball Assistant Coach (1-Year), $1,888 per season;
Contract issued to Daniel Hershberger, Middle School Football Assistant Coach (1-Year), $1,949 per annum;
Fall Volunteer Coaches
Justin Barthelman, High School Football Coach, Up to $2,000 from Football Resale;
Kevin Cortum, High School Football Coach, Up to $2,000 from Football Resale;
Brian Hervey, High School Football Coach, Up to $2,000 from Football Resale;
Derek Yoder, High School Football Coach, Up to $2,000 from Football Resale;
Nathan Carlson, High School Football Statistician, up to $500 from Football Resale;
Dolfi Kalm, High School Volleyball Coach, Up to $2,000 from Football Resale;
Zeb Evans, High School Volleyball Coach, Up to $2,000 from Football Resale;
Lynnette Poll, High School Cross Country Coach;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie Boys and Girls Basketball request approval to raise funds through a three Saturday Basketball Youth Clinic on November 6th, 13th, and 20th to raise funds towards the purchase of equipment, coaches apparel, player apparel, costs of the Kansas City Trip, and volunteer coaches;
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
Annual Treasurer’s Report
Business Manager and Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber provided the 2020-2021 Treasurers Report. The report presented is the Summary Treasurer’s Report from the Iowa Board of Education Portal. Net Operating Fund Balance increased by $236,000 for 2020-2021 compared to $264,000 for the previous Fiscal Year. Swartzentruber discussed the reasons for the decrease in Fund Balance for the PPEL Fund. He noted increases in the SAVE Fund and the Nutrition Fund during the year and noted the COVID Funding received during the year influenced these increases. The Board asked questions for clarification.
Gabriella Frederick moved to accept the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 Treasurers Report as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
District Facilities Discussion
Superintendent Mark Schneider and Board President Jeremy Gugel led the Board through additional discussion about the Facilities Plan from the work of the Facilities Committee. Focus areas of the conversation centered on elements of the book prepared by the Carl A. Nelson team, projections for borrowings performed by Piper Sandler on General Obligations and Revenue Bonds, and priorities of the various projects presented. A document has been started to provide a place for Board Members to ask specific questions about the project, priorities, and financing so that the questions can be addressed for future Board discussions. Key to that discussion is new classroom space at the buildings that may be more than what the Facilities Committee suggested in their work from 2018-2019. Additional questions and initial conversations between Board Member and also with the Administrative Team continued on space and space limitations that may occur with building additions and renovations at each building location.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
The annual IASB convention is November 18th. Preconference sessions are on November 17th. Let Jeff know what days you wish to be registered at this conference in the next few board meetings.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
School Board Candidate Documents are due Thursday, September 16, 2021 by 5pm to Jeff Swartzentruber, Board Secretary. These will be delivered to the Washington County Auditor on September 17, 2021.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 27, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Special Education Deficit Spending Authority Resolution, LEP/ELL SBRC Spending Authority Resolutions; IASB Delegates; Tours of the High School, West Elementary, and Home School Education Center Buildings; and Facility Plan Discussion.
Work Session
Tour of District Facilities
The Board toured East Elementary and the Middle School with Principals and Lead Custodians present. This annual review allows Board Members to see the physical locations and review improvements from the Summer and discuss the ongoing District planning and facility needs and priorities.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:11 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
August 23, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick (arrived at 6:17 p.m.), Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Jeremy Pickard (Arrived at the meeting at 6:52 p.m.), and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Jeremy Pickard (Arrived at the meeting at 6:52 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 5-0.
WORK SESSION
Update on August Professional Learning Activities
Superintendent Schneider and the Principals shared the different activities they did together at the Administrative Team Retreat and then with their staff leading up to the first day of school. The Retreat was key to learning about themselves and about the others on the Administrative Team. Important topics included discussion about change/transition—the positive and negative aspect of this—and the loss in both types of change. They reflected on the “why’s” of Mid-Prairie—what are the values and how does the Golden Circle help with the “why” understandings and approach. The Head Cooks had a number of days of training and the whole Nutrition Staff then did a day of baking practice. Four Custodians went to two days of a Custodians Conference in Ottumwa in late July. New teachers arrived in the District 3 days before the other teachers for on-boarding—some “why” discussions were introduced to the new teachers. The Real Colors training was provided for the new teachers, and they also met with their Professional Partners. Professional Partners met together prior to their time with new teachers to discuss the “why”. On the third day of the new teacher time, all new employees took a 3 hour bus trip around the District. When continuing staff returned on Wednesday, August 18th, the buildings team met together. The entire staff gathered on Friday, August 20th for lunch and an afternoon of input. Again, the “why” discussion was an important component. The staff were divided into 8 member teams that will be together for a good portion of the year.
Jeremy Pickard arrived during the latter portion of the Work Session.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
This was included in the above agenda item.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Nothing added for this agenda item.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of August 9, 2021;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for August 23, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Brock and Danielle Moore request Emmerson Moore (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Kerry Janecek requests Lilyan Janecek (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
John and Kayla Daniels request Clara Daniels (Kindergarten) and Hanna Daniels (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa Valley Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Louise Zook requests Luana Zook (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa Valley Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Austin and Michelle Vincent request Alaina Vincent (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Aaron Coghlan, High School Assistant Football Coach, $2,850.00 per annum;
Contract issued to Lisa Doser, Middle School Girls Basketball Coach, $3,219.00 per annum;
Contract Issued to Miranda Miller, HSAP Supervising Teacher, $25.55 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Shelby Cook, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Lois Dehogues, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Cassidy Hertzler, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Paige Peiffer, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Kyla Schneider, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Allyson Swartzentruber, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour;
TLC Professional Partner Contracts Issued the 2021-2022 School Year for:
Renee Fisher - $1,000 DiAnna Geiger - $1,000
Makenzie Flynn - $1,000 Maureen Gingerich - $1,000
Carrie Schweitzer - $1,000 Beth Fiordelise - $1,000
Kim McAtee - $1,000 Terra Huber - $1,000
Erin Cavanagh - $2,000 Anna Jabbari - $1,000
Traci Zahradnek - $1,000 Sara Puttmann - $1,000
Molly Steinbrech - $1,000 Crystal Gingerich - $1,000
Fundraising Requests – None presented for approval;
Approve Additional Insured School Related Groups – The following associated entities are approved for inclusion in the District Liability and E&O Insurance Policies
Golden Hawks Wrestling Club Mid-Prairie Athletic Boosters
Mid-Prairie Community School District Foundation
Mid-Prairie Fine Arts Boosters Mid-Prairie Post Prom Committee
Mid-Prairie Student Boosters Mid-Prairie Alumni and Friends Association
MP Archery Club
Jodi Meader seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Second Reading – Board Policies Series 200
Superintendent Schneider noted the work and review done at the July Board Meeting on Series 200 Board Policies. He also noted the Policies for Series 200 passed on First Reading at the august 9, 2021, Board meeting. Board President Gugel asked for additional questions and comment.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve on Second Reading the Series 200 School Board Policies as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Preschool Paraprofessional Position
Superintendent Schneider, Principal Amy Shalla, noted the need for a Preschool Paraprofessional due to a new student starting in Preschool with specific IEP required adult support during times the student is in school.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the creation of a new Paraprofessional position for Preschool as presented. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
District Facilities Discussions
Superintendent Schneider and Board President Gugel led the Board in a Discussion about Facilities. Priorities and Costs have been presented to the Board over the past few months. The Board discussed whether or not something needs to be done at every building from a fairness mindset. There are about $40 million of projects and probably $30 million of potential bonding capacity should the Board want to entertain that option. The Board asked questions of Building Principals as to their thoughts and initial priorities related to the prioritized list. The Board discussed the varied elements of the projects. The Board expressed appreciation of the input from the Administrators. This agenda item will be continued at near future meetings.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
School Board Candidate Election documents are now allowed to be filed with Jeff Swartzentruber, School Board Secretary. The first day to file is August 23rd. The last day to file will be September 16th by 5:00 p.m. at Central Office. He will file with Washington County on September 17, 2021.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 13, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Building Tours will be in the next two meetings; the Business Meeting will be first on the agenda followed by the building tours as the Work Session for these two meetings; and continued discussion on the Facilities process.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
August 9, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Jeremy Pickard (Arrived to the meeting at 6:56 p.m.), and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard (Arrived to the meeting at 6:56 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.
Jodi Meader moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 4-0.
WORK SESSION
Facilities Committee Costing Update
Superintendent Schneider introduced Chris Smith and Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson and Company, to provide a costing update on the Facilities Committee project recommendations. The updated book projects the start date to be 2023 and also includes additional projects that have been identified since the original book was compiled in late 2019. An overview by building location was given to the Board to both look at options and refresh the different projects. The Board asked questions for verification and understanding.
Preparation for the Start of School
Superintendent Schneider and the Administrative Team updated the Board on preparations, tasks, and issues as the beginning of school draws near. The modular classrooms at East and West Elementary School are in process, and Schneider reported on expected outcomes coming up to the first day of school. He also reported on HVAC issues at the Middle School and the West Elementary. Flooring has been installed in the buildings. There is two weeks from today until the first day of school.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
The Principals reported on interactions with their building staff as they anticipate the start of school. There are positive themes on working to make the student experience as top priority. Home School is continuing to welcome new families. Special Education is working on student rosters and still looking for a Special Education teacher. Virtual Academy is starting to meet with students tomorrow to discuss expectations as well as exploring some partnerships with Home School and High School to expand offerings to students. Registration opened last week and is progressing.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Superintendent Schneider conducted a quick exercise with Board members to highlight some of the reasons that Mid-Prairie is unique. The focus is on the “why” of Mid-Prairie to go along with the “how.”
(Jeremy Pickard arrived at the end of this agenda item)
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of July 12, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for July 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for August 9, 2021; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Ariel Streeter requests Malachi Streeter (Grade 2) and Scarlett Streeter (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Barry and Brandy Christener request Kai Leigh Purcell (Grade 12) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
No contracts to be issued;
Resignation of Lori Trevino, Home School Assistance Program Coordinator, $41,025 per annum, effective July 23, 2021;
Fundraising Requests – None presented for approval
Performance Health and Fitness Strength and Coordination Agreement for 2021-2022 – Recommended for Approval.
Jodi Meader seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Student Learning
First Reading – Board Policies Series 200
Superintendent Schneider noted the work and review done at the July Board Meeting on Series 200 Board Policies. He noted the changes discussed at the meeting were included in the Board document website. Board President Gugel asked for additional questions and comment.
Jodi Meader moved to approve on First Reading the Series 200 School Board Policies as presented. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Finance
2021 2022 Bank Depository Resolution
Superintendent Schneider presented the board with the annual required resolution on District Bank Depositories and limits and recommended Resolution 0809211 for approval. One change is proposed with the UMB Bank maximum lowered to $3 million as compared to the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year amount of $5 million. This was done as UMB Bank no longer holds Debt Service assets through the year and prior to payment due dates. The remainder line items are left in place with the understanding that planning for Facilities may require a modification should a Bond referendum be undertaken and passed during the 2021-2022 School Year.
RESOLVED, that the Mid-Prairie Community School District of Wellman, Iowa in Washington County, Iowa approves the following list of financial institutions to be depositories of the Mid-Prairie School, all funds in conformance with all applicable provisions of Iowa Code Chapters 452 and 453 (1983) as amended by 1984 Iowa Acts. S.F. 2220. The Business Manager/Board Secretary is hereby authorized to deposit the Mid-Prairie School funds in amounts not exceed the maximum approved for each respective financial institution as set out below.
Location of Maximum Balance Maximum balance in
Depository name Home Office effect under prior effect under this
___________________ __________ resolution resolution .
UMB Bank, N.A. (ISJIT) Des Moines 5,000,000 3,000,000
Hills Bank Hills 12,000,000 12,000,000
Federation Bank Wellman 5,000,000 5,000,000
CBI Bank & Trust Kalona 5,000,000 5,000,000
Miles Capital Mgmnt Des Moines 2,000,000 2,000,000
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve 08092101 as presented reading from the resolution. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - absent
Mary Allred - yes
Jodi Meader - yes
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jeremy Gugel - yes
Denise Chittick - absent
Motion carried 5-0.
ESSER III Spending Plan
Superintendent Schneider noted the requirement that ESSER III Funds spending plans and ideas need to be publically discussed. He noted the various areas in which the funds are planned to be used through June 30, 2023. A minimum of 20% of the funds, $396,800, is to be spent on Learning Loss recovery.
Mary Allred moved to approve the ESSER III Spending Plan as presented. Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.
Announcements
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
IASB Convention Registration is Open. The dates are November 17-18, 2021 in Des Moines
School Board Candidates are encouraged to take out their paperwork and complete it. The paperwork is due to Jeff Swartzentruber, Board Secretary on Thursday, September 16, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. at Central Office. He will file it with Washington County on September 17, 2021.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 22, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Will discuss the Facilities packet and are asked to bring it back to the next meeting.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.