Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
June 28, 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, and Marianne Schlabach (arrived at 6:18 p.m.).
Board members absent: Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach (until 6:18 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Rachel Kerns, Chuck Banks, Rob Hruby, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Greg Jergens.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 5-0.
WORK SESSION
Recognize Special Guests
Superintendent Schneider introduced the new Building Principals to the Board. They are Chuck Banks, Mid-Prairie High School Principal; Rob Hruby, Mid-Prairie Middle School Principal; and Greg Jergens Mid-Prairie East Elementary School Principal. Each principal spoke and provided a bit of professional and personal background.
Marianne Schlabach arrived during this agenda item.
Financial Resources Available for Facilities Plan
Superintendent Schneider introduced Matt Gillaspie of Piper, Sandler & Company. Matt presented an overview of the financing resources and possibilities that could be available for the various facilities improvements and project as presented by the Facilities Committee just prior to the onset of the COVID pandemic. This was an educational exercise for the Board. He covered the 4 different funding sources generally available to school districts in Iowa—cash on hand, Capital Notes, Revenue Bonds and General Obligation Bonds. He discussed the current General Obligation debt of the District and the Surplus levies over the past three years. The first call date on the General Obligation bonds occurred on June 1, 2021—these bonds could be refinanced, again, should the Board decide to do this. He summarized the current Sales Tax Bonds outstanding by the District—these were refinanced in 2019 and come due in 2028 with no early call date provisions. He discussed the Statutory Debt Limit for the District. He also shared overviews of possible borrowing steps and sources pertinent to the District. The Board expressed appreciation for his work with the District as Facilities Plans are processed.
District Annual Report
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
This was tabled to the July meeting.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Nothing was noted at this 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
Jodie Meader moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of June 14, 2021;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for June 28, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Greg and Lindsey Jergens request Jersey Jergens (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa Valley Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Brian and Rachel Bartachek request Jordan Bartachek (Grade 8), Quinn Bartachek (Grade 3), and Sarena Bartachek (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Amelia Johnston, High School Special Education Teacher, $40,722.00 per annum;
Fundraising Requests
MPHS Volleyball requests approval to raise funds through the sale of candles from August 16th to September 30th for the purchase of volleyball equipment and paying volunteer assistant coaches;
MPHS Volleyball requests approval to raise funds through the proceeds from the August 2nd to August 6th Volleyball Camp for the purchase of volleyball equipment, Middle School Uniforms, and paying volunteer coaches;
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
High School Special Education Teacher
Superintendent Schneider and Amy Shalla, Special Education Administrator, discussed the Special Education Teacher needs at the High School and the Middle School. This results in a proposal for another Full Time Special Education teacher for the High School beginning in the 2021-2022 School Year. Half of the position may be filled by a person currently in the District.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve an additional full time Special Education Teacher for the High School in the 2021-2022 School Year. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Second Reading, Board Policy 403.1 – Employee Physical Examinations
Board President Gugel asked if there were any discussion items or questions with respect to Board Policy 403.1—Employee Physical Examinations from the previous meeting.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to pass on Second Reading Board Policy 403.1 Employee Physical Examinations as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Handbooks for 2021-2022
Greg Jergens, Principal at East Elementary, Rob Hruby, Principal of the Middle School and Amy Shalla, Principal of the Alternative Learning Center presented their handbooks to the Board. The combined Elementary Handbook has two changes—page 17 addresses School Lunch Prices as free due to the ongoing Federal program for lunch and breakfast in 2021-2022, and the page 20 where the fever-free time is 24 hours without the aid of medication. The Middle School Handbook has one change on page 6 with respect to Dress Code—Hats are permitted in 6th to 8th grade. Alternative Learning Center’s change was to the section Virtual and Hybrid Learning.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the changes to the Handbooks for the Combined Elementary handbook, Middle School handbook, and Alternative Learning Center handbook as presented. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
2022 IASB Legislative Priorities
Superintendent Schneider introduced the need for the annual discussion of the Legislative Priories list provide by IASB. This is an introduction to this agenda item for July discussion. Last year’s document was provided as a resource for the Board as they prepare for the July discussion and process.
Finance
Modular Classroom Agreement
Superintendent Schneider updated the Board on the continuing developments for Modular Classrooms at both Elementary Schools. He has asked Shive-Hattery and Vesta Modular to work through the issues of placement and logistics of the classrooms at each campus. No documents have been provided to date. However, it is anticipated that the buildings will be available in mid-July.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
District Annual Report
Agenda item moved from the Work Session portion of the meeting.
Kristan Hunter, District Curriculum Leader, shared the District Annual Report and its contents with the Board. She stressed that this was a year where people and ideas came together in the District to provide support, uphold resilience, and encourage kindness. The Report is a highlight of the key happenings for the year.
Announcements
Administration Retreat will take place in early August. The Board is invited to be present for Supper on Tuesday, August 3rd at 6:00 p.m. followed by Real Colors training and interactions. This will take place at the Kirkwood Hotel in Cedar Rapids.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, July 12, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room, the only scheduled Board Meeting in July. Agenda items to include: Carl A. Nelson on the recalculating Facilities Cost (Mark is working with them); IASB Legislative Priorities for 2022; and 28E Agreement Amendments with Wellman and Kalona YMCA Buildings.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
June 14, 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, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Jeremy Pickard.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, and Jeff Swartzentruber. Administrators present were Amy Shalla and Tyler Hotz.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented except that the hiring of Lisa Keston will be pulled from the Consent Agenda. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
Recognize Special Guests
The USA Cross Country Coach Association Coach of the Year in the State of Iowa Mark Hostetler, and the Iowa Gatorade Runner of the Year Danielle Hostetler were introduced to and recognized by the School Board. Activities Director Tyler Hotz presented Danielle with the Runner of the Year Award. Hotz also presented Mark with his award and provided comments of appreciation. Mark and Danielle both spoke briefly about their appreciation for the District, the boosters and the fans. Additionally, Hotz noted the 4 in a row State Championships for Girls Cross Country and 3 in a row State Championships for Girls Track.
Middle School Math Materials Request
Kristan Hunter, District Curriculum Leader; Ashley Bartels, Middle School Math Teacher; and Elsie Spilman Middle School Math Teacher presented on the Proposal for new Middle School Math Curriculum. They provided information on their vision and background work leading up to the recommendation. This new curriculum method enhances and extends the current curriculum and teaching that is being used at the Middle School. The recommendation includes a 5-year access to DESMOS digital platform for 350 students in grades 6-8 for $26,180.00. This breaks down to $74.80 per student over 5 years, or $14.96 per student for one year of access. The Board asked questions for clarification.
District Facilities Plan
Superintendent Schneider discussed the current Facilities steps being taken. He discussed the overall plans and needs assessment for the work of the Facilities Committee is continuing to be evaluated. Schneider has asked Matt Gillaspie of Piper Jaffray to come to the June 28th School Board Meeting to discuss the Bond strategies. He has also requested a preliminary costing for a number of the Facilities Committee top rated projects as a way forecast the needs of the various additions and renovations. It is hoped that representatives from Carl A Nelson will be able to attend a School Board Meeting in July or early August. The Board asked questions for clarification on the project list, recent additions, and options to be considered.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Amy Shalla reported Summer School at East Elementary and at the ALC is on-going through June. There will be an additional week of Summer School in the first week of August. Transportation is being provided for students who have expressed a need. Summer projects include: replacement of flooring in a number of the elementary school classrooms, replacement of a number of unit ventilators at West Elementary, replacement of the HVAC controls at the Middle School, and painting selected areas in all the buildings. Schneider then provided an overview of a number of the agenda items on the Business Meeting session.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Schneider discussed the Principal’s Retreat in the first few days of August to build team within the new Administrative Team. On Tuesday, August 3rd the Board is invited to join the Principals at the Kirkwood Hotel at 6pm with Supper and then a Work Session.
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 May 10, 2021 and May 16, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for June, 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for June 14, 2021; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Dosha Vasquez requests Jaelynn Schultz (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Pekin Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Devra Stapleton requests Bella Sinn (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Stacy Doehrmann requests Samantha McQuirk (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Clint and Niki Miller request Hadley Miller (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Lynda Halteman requests Elyse Halteman (Grade 3), Chasya Halteman (Grade 4), Jamila Halteman (Grade 6) and Kalea Halteman (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Julie Cole, Bus Driver, $24.13 per hour;
Contract issued to Roy Beachy, Bus Driver, $23.63 per hour;
Contract issued to Billy Matiyabo, Bus Driver, $25.13 per hour;
Contract issued to Cassidy Rourke, Middle School Softball Coach, $1,827 per season;
Contract issued to Taylor Weber, 0.5 FTE Middle School TLC Interventionist, $26,451 per annum;
Contract issued to Frank Slabaugh, 0.5 FTE Middle School TLC Learning Design Leader, $32,685 per annum;
Contract issued to Hallie Whitten, East Elementary Second Grade Teacher, $39,365 per annum;
Contract issued to Kelsey Stumpf, West Elementary Fourth Grade Teacher, $39,365 per annum;
Contract issued to Emily Pennington, East and West Elementary TLC Math Interventionist, $67,104 per annum;
Contract issued to Kristan Hunter, 0.5 FTE Early Childhood Facilitator, $35,220 per annum;
Contract issued to Kristan Hunter, 0.5 FTE District Curriculum Director, $35,220 per annum;
Contract issued to Olivia Tucker, Middle School Fifth Grade Teacher, $39,365 per annum;
Contract issued to Lori Simon, East and West Elementary TLC Technology Education Teacher, $52,645 per annum;
Contract issued to Wendy Puteney, Middle School Spanish Teacher, $69,570 per annum;
Contract issued to Carmen Fernau, East Elementary Nurse, $40,722 per annum;
Resignation of Fabiola Hernandez, Middle School Spanish Teacher, $43,267 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Deb Carlson, HS Math Teacher, $56,012 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Jaclyn Greiner, HS Nurse, $45,581 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Hannah Halstead, Fourth Grade Teacher, $38,906 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Wendy Klostermann, Bus Driver, $23.16 per hour, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Rachel Sather, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $13.76 per hour, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Erin Campbell, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $13.76 per hour, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Kyla Schneider, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $13.79 per hour, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Julie Cole, High School Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Stephen Bender, Middle School Girls Basketball Coach, $3,169 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Aaron Coghlan, Assistant Varsity Football Coach, $3,130 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Aaron Coghlan, Middle School Boys Track Coach, $2,267 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 School Year;
Fundraising Requests – None presented at this time;
2021-2022 Cooperative Agreements with Clear Creek Amana Community School District
The four existing and on-going 28E Agreements for shared with Clear Creek Amana Community Schools are: Human Resource Coordinator—hired by Mid-Prairie; Social Worker—hired by Mid-Prairie; Building and Grounds and Grounds Director –hired by Clear Creek Amana; and Curriculum Director—hired by Clear Creek Amana. These agreements will continue into the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year;
Power School Agreement
Approval of the Licensing Agreement with Power School for the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year.
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Hiring of Lisa Kesten
Superintendent Schneider explained that Kesten is his daughter and noted the potential conflict of interest. He discussed the situation with Jeremy Gugel before she applied. He stayed out of the interview and hiring recommendation. Amy Shalla noted the qualifications of Kesten and their recommendation to hire her. The hiring bonus incentive to be discussed later is not recommended by Schneider for Kesten.
Denise Chittick moved to approve that a contract be issued to Lisa Kesten, West Elementary Special Education Teacher, $45,812 per annum. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Approved 6-0.
Student Learning
Middle School Math Materials Request
Superintendent Schneider recapped the recommendation for Math Materials from the Work Session. Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Math Curriculum request to purchase a 5-year access to DESMOS digital platform for 350 students at a cost of $26,180.00. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
New Principal Contracts
Superintendent Schneider reported that our past practice has been to offer Principal Contracts that begin annually on August 1st and end on July 31st. He is proposing to move the 3 new Principal contracts to a July 1st to June 30th annual cycle. This is recommended in order to match the practice of other Districts in Iowa and prevent a gap in income and benefits of one month. Existing Administrator Contracts will remain on the August 1st cycle. The contracts will be reissued with the new dates. It was deemed no motion was required for this change. This is only a reporting item.
Incentive for Hiring Teachers in the DE Identified Shortage Areas
Superintendent Schneider shared a listing of the 17 content areas that are defined as hard to fill teaching positions. Many of the District’s open positions in this area have had none or at most one applicant. The Washington District recently instituted this type of bonus for the 2021-2022 school year. He requested the Board consider a hiring bonus of $5,000 to be paid to teachers in these identified categories. This would be similar to what other Districts are doing for these types of positions. Further, it would be recommended that hiring bonus be paid half in the first check of the first year and the second half of the bonus in the first check of the second year the teacher is under contract. This would be a longer term change of Board Policy where the amount within the policy would or could be set by the Board each year. The Board discussed the inclusion of the elementary special education teacher in the bonus, especially in light of Schneider’s recommendation to not include this position.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve a signing bonus for teachers in shortage areas as identified by the Iowa Department of Education and that the bonus be given to any teacher hired for the 2021-22 school that fits the criteria except for the elementary special education teacher hired tonight. The amount of the signing bonus shall be $5,000.00 with half paid on September 25, 2021 and the second half being paid on September 25, 2022 if the teacher is still an employee of the district on that date. There was no second to the motion. Motion died for lack of a second.
Denise Chittick moved to approve a signing bonus for teachers in shortage areas as identified by the Iowa Department of Education and that the bonus be given to any teacher hired for the 2021-22 school that fits the criteria. The amount of the signing bonus shall be $5,000.00 with half paid on September 25, 2021 and the second half being paid on September 25, 2022 if the teacher is still an employee of the district on that date. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion did not carry as the vote was a tie 3-3. Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, and Jeremy Gugel voted against.
The Board discussed the reasons for the bonus and the inclusion or not of Keston’s position as eligible for the bonus. The Board affirmed Mark’s transparency in this agenda item. The policy would new and ongoing if approved as compared to if the policy had already been in place.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve a signing bonus for teachers in shortage areas as identified by the Iowa Department of Education and that the bonus be given to any teacher hired for the 2021-22 school that fits the criteria. The amount of the signing bonus shall be $5,000.00 with half paid on September 25, 2021 and the second half being paid on September 25, 2022 if the teacher is still an employee of the district on that date. Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Board Policy 403.1 – Employee Physical Examinations
Superintendent Schneider recommends that the policy be changed to remove the content “and that the employee did not test positive for tuberculosis”. In the past few years, there has been a very low supplies of tuberculosis testing kits that has resulted in the various physicians who perform the pre-employment physicals not providing this service. It does not look like this situation will be resolved anytime soon. The attending physician will make their determination and recommendation as to whether the employee is fit to perform their duties.
Jodi Meader moved to pass on First Reading Board Policy 403.1 Employee Physical Examinations as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Handbooks
Student Handbooks for East Elementary, West Elementary, and the Middle School are under consideration. This was tabled as there were none presented for this meeting.
Finance
Modular Classrooms
Superintendent Schneider noted that we are still waiting on the agreement with Vesta Modular. Shive-Hattery is continuing to work with Vesta Modular on the placement of the classrooms. Schneider noted that he has asked for a leasing agreement. The Board asked questions for clarification on timing.
Superintendent Compensation
Board President Jeremy Gugel drew the Board’s attention to the schedule for Superintendent Schneider’s pay package for the upcoming year. Current salary is $172,995 with a total package of $223,859. It is recommended that the Superintendent’s compensation package be increased by 2.90%, which is the same as all other District Staff for the 2021-2022 School year. This would raise his salary to $178,390 and total package to $230,352. The Board expressed appreciation to Schneider and acknowledged how busy this next school year will be with new administrative staff.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the Superintendent Compensation Package to $230,352, a 2.90% increase for the 2021-2022 School Year as recommended. Mary Allred 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
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, June 28, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: The District Annual Report, the modular classroom agreement, Second Reading of Board Policy 403.1, Student Handbook changes, and introduction of the new principals.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:42 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
May 16, 2021 – 7:00 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Jodi Meader.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 6-0.
District Mask Policy Considering New Iowa Department of Public Health Guidance
Jeremy Gugel introduced the situation and turned it over Superintendent Schneider discussed the changed guidance by the Iowa Department of Public Health on Friday, May 14, 2021 that was released late afternoon. IDPH recommendation that masks for students are at the discretion of the parents. Quarantine rules are changed to students exposed are no longer required to be quarantined. If a student is sick and tests positive for COVID, they would be required to quarantined. Transportation masks are still effect. Further research is needed to understand the impact this has on transportation of students each day. The Board asked questions about the impact of the change to current Board Policy. Board members discussed the implications with two and a half weeks left of school.
Jeremy moved to remove the current mask policy. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Motion Carried 5-1. Gabrielle Frederick dissented.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:21 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
May 10, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jeremy Pickard, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Jodi Meader.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
Fund for Academic Excellence Presentation
This agenda item is tabled until the Fall of 2021.
East Elementary Presentations
Robin Foster, Principal at East Elementary provided a presentation to the Board. She focused on learning, particularly Title I and Reading Recovery stats as well as proficiencies in Kindergarten and Grade 1. She is looking forward to bridging the learning opportunities between East and West in the coming School Year. She would like to see Alternative Kindergarten Program promoted. Summer School will be for Kindergarten to Grade 4 this year with 4 weeks in June and 2 weeks in August. There are over 60 students signed up for Summer School. The Board expressed appreciation for the information and approaches being taken.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber discussed the modular classrooms. Given some of the early cost data, there is a recommendation to reserve 2 of the used units that are currently at Linn-Mar until the first part of June. A recommendation will be made at the June meeting as to approach to be taken. The Board gave guidance to move forward with the approval of recommendation at the June meeting.
Business Manager Swartzentruber discussed the receipt of Election paperwork from the Washington County Auditor’s office for the November election. He will work on this in the next couple of weeks.
Business Manager Swartzentruber thanked Hills Bank for the Classroom Cash contribution of $4,389.33.
High School Principal Strickland again discussed the HS Graduation to be held indoors with 8 guests per graduate allows, and additionally, siblings may attend and not be counted as one of the 8 guests. The attendance numbers seemed to be the greatest concern. The Board asked clarifying questions.
Amy Shalla, Special Education Administrator, introduced the Special Education Service Delivery Plan and defined a number of the terms and concepts for the Board. Every 5 years the District is required to evaluate the caseload documentation and matrix. The last review was in 2009. This discussion was continued during the Business 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.
A parent shared appreciation for the opportunity to open enroll their special education student into Mid-Prairie. She told her story of their family’s experience and thanked the School Board for the atmosphere of compassion that they have fostered.
A parent discussed the current lighting for the Softball Field is inadequate according to state standards. It is rumored that Softball may be required to raise the funds to replace these lights. She pointed out that Baseball received the funds in April of 2014 with support from the Athletic Boosters. It was noted that Tyler Hotz, Activities Director, did bring this issue to the attention of the Board as one of the priorities at the end of the Facilities Priorities process. This will be evaluated.
Consent Items
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of April 24, 2021 and May 4, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for April 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for May 10, 2921 and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Megan Libe requests Noelle Star (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2020-21 School Year;
Nikole Eichelberger requests Luke Eichelberger (Grade 1), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Alexis Osborn requests Nova Osborn (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Krystal McFadden requests Oliver McFadden (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
OUT – None submitted;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Stacy Jack, High School English Teacher Half-time, $19,683 per annum;
Contract issued to Melanie Steinhart, Middle School English Language Arts Teacher, $39,365 per annum;
Contract issued to Keary McHugh-Onken, HSAP Supervising and Enrichment Teacher, $25.55 per hour;
Contract issued to Rebecca Becker, High School Assistant Volleyball Coach, $4,138 per season;
Contract issued to Melissa Rediger, High School National Honor Society Sponsor, $900 per annum;
Contract issued to Pete Cavanagh, High School Student Council Leader, $600 per annum;
Resignation of Marian Marley, High School National Honor Society Sponsor, $972 per annum, effective end of 2020-21 School Year;
Resignation of Chelsee Ronan, East Elementary Special Education Teacher, $42,931 per annum, effective end of 2020-21 School Year;
Resignation of Shaina Gearhart, TLC Learning Design Leader, $63,372 per annum, effective end of 2020-21 School Year;
Resignation of Jennifer Gillam, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $13.76 per hour, effective end of 2020-21 School Year;
Resignation of Marian Marley, High School National Honor Society Sponsor, $972 per annum, effective end of 2020-21 School Year;
Resignation of Sarah Idhe, Middle School Volleyball Coach, $2,183 per annum, effective end of 2020-21 School Year;
Fundraising Requests
Boys Basketball requests approval to raise funds through Donations from local businesses as sponsors for the basketball camp to be held June 14th- 17th for purchase of coaches/players gear, equipment, Kansas City Trip expenses, and volunteer coaches payments;
Mid-Prairie Strength and Conditioning requests approval to raise funds through sales of clothing using Elite Sports for the month of May to raise funds for Weight Room equipment and supplies;
MPHS Graduating Seniors Class of 2020-2021
Joseph William Allred Vinnie Michael Bowlin Sidney Rae Davis
Kaysen Joel Dempsey Olivia Joan Duwa Sade Mae Frantz
Caleb James Garrels Clarke Brink Latcham Hannah Anne Miller
Efrosyniya Rusalina Raef Connor Dayton Shalla Hallie Joy Shappell
Aaron Luke Slaubaugh Emily Lynn Swartzentruber Logan Jacob Truitt
Laela Nykole Waddell Reaghan Kaylee Aggson Lucas Aaron Bontrager
Caitlyn Jean Busch Kristina Raelynne Gerst Phelan Rose Hostetler
Eryk Elias Hovde Nicholas Edward Kofron Myah Patricia Lugar
Benjamin Ryan Meader Alexis Deanna Miller Collin James Nickell
Paige Elisabeth Peiffer Kayden Joseph Reinier Levi Adam Schnoebelen
Macey Moore Smith Steven James Stone Yassin F Ahmed
Morgan Elise Brunk Stanley Ray Butterbaugh Chelsea Rebecca Craigmile
Jesi Marie Donaldson Timothy Justin Farrier Gavin William Frascht
Emily Elizabeth Marner Billy Bilombele Matiyabo Dominic Jo McCain
Jenna Nicole Miller Tobin Joshua Miller Elisabeth Janelle Sansen
Jacob Christopher Swartzendruber Joshua Samuel Wallington
Luke William Albright Tori Lynn Boyse Keagan Joshua Allen Brady
Jackson Hayes Cornwell Kelby Blake Gingerich Cade Autsin Thomas Groenewold
Kyra Alison Helmuth Karsen Elizabeth Jehle Josh Michael Leonard
Madelyn Joyce Linnell Sarah Christine Meader Rhiannon Rose Panknen
Aidan James Dale Rath Colby Elizabeth Rourke Jennifer Sanchez
Ethan Russel Sweeting Wyatt Allen Taylor Caleb Leroy Thomas
Ethan Charles Trimpe Luke James Boyse Damien Tashon Davenport
Madison Avery Edgington Zeus Carter Fugate Keegan Joe Gingerich
Abbigail Joy Hicks Michael James Kelly Nasya Moon Leaton
Gibson James Lowenberg Elizabeth Fern Meader Natali Jo Miller
Nathan Craig Quinby Nick Duane Slabaugh Emma Ann Slaubaugh
Amber Lindsey Swart Cooper Ryan Thomas
MP-HSAP Graduating Seniors Class of 2020-2021
Abigail Vakulich Ana Jo Fleming Angela Naomi Shores
Cara Michaela Leichty Catherine Marie Hentrich Cecil “CJ” James Rauch
Chase Lynn Miller Elizabeth Kyra-Ann Sands Ella Sue Cadena
Gabe Christian Brase Grant Woods Kirkpatrick Isaiah Haveman
Jillian Hope Owen Kathryn Elaine Schwartz Katrina Peace Curtiss
Keaton Lynn Graber Kezia Schwartz Kristiana (Triana) JeAn Tu
Lauren Michelle Winborn Magnolia Mae Graber Mckenna Grace Miller
Zach James Brase Zebidah (Zebi) W Kimani
MP-ALC Graduating Seniors Class of 2020-2021
Gabe Kauffman Dusty Knepp Brianna Myers
Mason Wagg Ethan White
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
High School Principal
Superintendent Schneider discussed the interview process for the open High School Principal Position. He also provided some background on the candidate of choice. He recommends the hire of Chuck Banks for the High School Principal position effective August 1, 2021 for the 2021-2022 School Year. The starting salary will be $125,000 with a total package with benefits of $171,363.
Denise Chittick moved to approve the hire of Chuck Banks at a salary of $125,000 annually and additional benefits with a start date of August 1, 2021 subject to the completion of acceptable background checks. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
High School Graduation
Principal Jay Strickland discussed the logistics of the 2021 High School Graduation. As noted in the Work Session, it is recommended that the graduation ceremony be moved back indoors and that 8 guests plus siblings be allowed for each graduate. A letter will be sent to the graduates’ families. It was clarified that all other events stay as stated in policy at 4 tickets. The masks policy will be uses as the Friday absence percentage immediately prior to graduation. There were questions and discussion about the number being set at 8 per graduate. The event will be live streamed.
Mary Allred moved to approve the plan for the 2021 graduation ceremony to have unlimited guests and siblings for each graduate. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-1 with Gabrielle Frederick dissenting.
Jeremy Pickard left the meeting at 7:25 p.m.
Student Handbooks for 2021-22
Principal Jay Strickland shared the five proposed changes to the High School Student Handbook. He discussed the reasons for these changes and asked for questions of Board members.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the 2021-2022 High School Handbook changes as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Jeremy Pickard returned to the meeting at 7:35 p.m.
Special Education Service Delivery Plan
Special Education Administrator Amy Shalla finished her thoughts on the Special Education Service Delivery Plan picking up from where she stopped during the Work Session. She shared the student counts by Level and by Building. In addition, there are students in the Beyond Program that normally would have graduated, as well as, a higher number of IEPs within the Preschool Program. The District uses the VITAL and RISE programs at two community colleges for a smaller number of IEP students who are working on college courses. There are other programs and options in use also. The Board asked questions about details of the various programs.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Special Education Service Delivery Plan as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Finance
Washington County Riverboat Foundation Grant Application
Superintendent Schneider presented the WCRF Grant Application resolution and summarized the grant. The following grant is presented for consideration and approval prior to the June 6, 2021, deadline.
The Board reviewed the request and asked questions about the timing elements of the project.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve Resolution 051021 for the Washington County Riverboat Foundation Grant Application. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - yes
Jodi Meader - absent
Jeremy Pickard - yes
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jeremy Gugel - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 6-0.
School Fees for 2021-22
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the proposed School Fees components for the 2021-2022 School Year. No changes are recommended for the 2021-2022 School Year from the 2020-2021 School Year. It is recommended that no Book Fees be collected again. There are no changes to the lunch prices due to the Federal Government continuing the Free Lunch Program through the 2021-2022 School Year.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve 2021-2022 School Fees as presented. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Salaries for Principals, Directors, HSAP and Central Office Staff, Assistant AD and Middle School Dean of Students
Superintendent Schneider recommends a 2.9% package increase for Principals, Directors, Central Office Staff and Assistant AD and Middle School Dean for the 2021-2022 School Year. This is consistent with the 2.9% 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 2.9% increase proposal due to various circumstances. These one-time increases and the various related situations were presented and discussed by Schneider with the School Board.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the District Administrators/Directors and Central Office Staff wage and package increases of 2.9%, and HSAP Administrative and Teaching Staff increases with one-time bumps all for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 as presented. Denise Chittick 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 and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, June 14, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: District Annual Report, Middle School Presentation, Facilities Planning Committee, COVID Planning, Superintendent Wages for 2021-2022.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
May 4, 2021 – 7:00 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.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider, Secretary Cindy Malichky.
Jeremy Pickard moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
Closed Session pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5 (i)
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adjourn to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, 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 Jodi Meader.
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.
The Board entered Closed Session at 7:02 p.m.
The Board exited Closed Session at 7:52 p.m.
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
April 26, 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, and Jeremy Pickard (arrived at6:17p.m.).
Board members absent: Marianne Schlabach, and Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 6:17p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland.
Jodi Meader moved to adopt the agenda as presented with one change to the Consent Agenda, the addition of recommendation to hire Frank Slabaugh as half-Virtual Academy Coach. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 5-0.
Jeremy Pickard arrived at 6:17p.m.
WORK SESSION
West Elementary Presentation
Principal Bill Poock presented an update on happenings and needs at West Elementary. He provided some data points from FAST reading assessments and STAR math assessments. He then shared some comments and highlights from Teachers about what they appreciated about Mid-Prairie West Elementary this School Year. The Board asked questions on the data points. The Board affirmed the West Elementary Staff and Students for the hard work and the positive measurable results.
Early Childhood Facilitator
Principal Poock proposed the addition of a half-time Early Childhood Facilitator position to advance and improve the Preschool programming at Mid-Prairie. This would expand a current program paid for by TLC Funds. As the Preschool program grows, there is a need for additional leadership capabilities, yet we are not large enough for a full-time position. He outlined the activities that would be involved with this expanded position. This position would paid for out of ESSER funds over the next two school years. The other half of this position will continue to teach Preschool. The Board asked questions to clarify numbers of students enrolled for next year and funding.
Third Grade Teacher Proposal – This was tabled to the Business Meeting agenda item.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Graduation Report
Principal Strickland shared that graduation will be moved back indoors due to unpredictability of the weather earlier in the year. The hope is that there might be more guests allowed at the ceremony than were allowed at last year’s graduation. Four guests were allowed last year. The thought is that eight guests and siblings would be the goal for participation. Strickland is asking for a Board decision at the next meeting in order to send the letter to families in a timely fashion. The Board asked some initial questions about graduation to clarify intent and possible potential issues.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
Superintendent announced the CDC guidelines for masks required for conveyances—School vehicles. An email will be sent out to families tomorrow to explain this requirement and that masks will be required going forward. The Board affirmed this approach.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of April 12, 2021 meeting and the April 20, 2021 Special Meeting;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for April 26, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Mary Wetzel requests Anthony Wetzel (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from Muscatine Community School District for the 2020-21 School Year;
Autumn Lose requests Thomas Bryant (Prekindergarten Age 3), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2020-21 School Year;
Megan Libe requests Noelle Star (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Skyler Cooper requests Jayceon Buck (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Derek and Abbie Yoder request Gabrielle Yoder (Grade 4) attend Iowa City Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contract Issued to Frank Slabaugh, Virtual Academy Principal half-time and TLC Learning Design Coach half-time for the 2021-2022 School Year; $85,000 per annum effective August 1, 2021;
Volunteer Coach Positions for Spring Sports to include:
Byron Yoder, Boys Soccer Assistant Coach
Sofia Adams, Boys Soccer Assistant Coach
Josh Moore, Girls Soccer Assistant Coach; Up to $500 from Resale Funds
Resignations – None submitted;
Fundraising Requests – None submitted;
Grant Wood AEA Mentoring and Induction Consortium Agreement for the 2021-2022 School Year.
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
Early Childhood Facilitator
President Jeremy Gugel and Superintendent Schneider asked if there were any questions from the presentation made during the Work Session.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the creation of a half-time Early Childhood Facilitator Position beginning in the 2021-2022 School Year to be funded by ESSER Funds for the next 2 School Years. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Third Grade Teacher Proposal
Superintendent Schneider and Principal Foster proposed the addition of a 6th Third Grade Teacher for 2021-2022 School Year. This will make the class sizes smaller, will facilitate additional learning, and provide for additional spacing of students. This would also entail either the purchase or rental of a modular classroom to be placed on the Grounds of West Elementary. This would house the Music Classroom and make room for the Alternative Kindergarten Classroom as the Third Grade Classroom would assume the space currently used by Alternative Kindergarten Classroom. Heather Hershberger, Elementary School Music Teacher, discussed the need for the additional music specials class space at both Elementary Schools. East Elementary has been having these space issues for the past 3-plus School Years. Principal Foster provided some additional information on classroom sizes 24 feet by 40 feet, the other would be 28 feet by 68 feet and their individual floor plans. The square footages of the individual classrooms to be used would be pretty equal. The modular classroom would intend to be paid for with ESSER/COVID Funds. The Board asked the Administration to gather some additional data on the modular classrooms under the understanding that these classrooms would be strongly considered and acted upon at a future meeting with more complete data available.
Denise Chittick moved to approve an additional 3rd Grade Teacher for the 2021-2022 School Year making 6 sections in 3rd Grade to be paid by ESSER Funds for the next two school years. Mary Allred 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, May 10, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. This is the only schedule School Board Meeting in May. Agenda items to include: HS Graduation action, and East Elementary Presentation. There most likely would be a special Board Meeting to propose the recommended hire of a High School Principal
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:26p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
April 20, 2021 – 6:30 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Jeremy Gugel, and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Gabrielle Frederick, Jodi Meader, and Jeremy Pickard.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 4-0.
Finance/Student Learning
MPEA Compensation Agreement for 2021-2022
Superintendent Schneider shared that the IBB agreed to propose a total package increase for the 2021-2022 School Year of 2.90%. It is above the new money percentage signed by the governor in March of 2021. The 2.9% is near the State school district average settlements for 2021-2022. The MPEA and MPESSA Associations ratified the proposal on April 16, 2021. It is recommended that the School Board also consider ratification of the 2.9% package increase. Additionally, there were two minor changes, one for pay rate for Bus Maintenance Wages and one for an additional $0.05 per hour for Nutrition Staff. Finally, Superintendent Schneider is recommending a $100 incentive for Contracts and Work Agreements to be turned in within 10 days of distribution. The payment would be paid in the November 25, 2021 payroll with the eligible employees also required to be employed on November 15, 2021 with the District. The incentive would be paid for out of COVID ESSER III Funds from the Federal Government.
Denise Chittick moved to approve 2021-2022 Compensation Agreement for Teachers and Classified Staff that includes a 2.9% overall package increase as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 4-0.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie High School Gymnasium, Wellman, IA 52356
April 12, 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, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
High School Boys Varsity Basketball Trip to Kansas City
Varsity Basketball Coach Daren Lambert opened the discussion by providing a handout. Varsity Boys Basketball seeks approval from the Board to participate in a boys’ basketball event called “The 12 Courts of Christmas” to be played December 22nd in Kansas City Missouri at the Hy-Vee Arena. The costs of approximately $2,500 would be covered by fundraising to Boys Basketball Resale—they planned to start by asking for donations. The Board asked clarifying questions of Lambert and Hotz.
Update on Principal Searches
Superintendent Schneider provided an update on the search process for the Elementary School Principal and High School Principal Positions. Elementary School Principal: Interviews were conducted, Thursday, April 8, 2021 and finalist interviews were conducted on April 10, 2021. An offer has been extended pending School Board approval to Greg Jergens. This has been added to the Consent Agenda Items in the Business Session. High School Principal: Applications are still being accepted through April 15, 2021. The interview teams are being selected. The initial interview team meeting will be April 19th with interviews scheduled for April 26th.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Bill Poock presented on the Preschool Program to the Board. Mid-Prairie Preschool has 3 teachers serving 3 and 4 year olds. There is one Alternative Kindergarten Teacher and six Paraprofessionals who also work in the program. Current students served are 14 3 year olds and 73 4 year old students. There are also 12 Alternative Kindergarten. 99 total students are enrolled in the program for this school year. The enrollment push is underway and will continue to for the next two weeks. The curriculum used is Creative Curriculum along with other curriculum developed by the teachers within their PLC Team. The focus is preparing students for Kindergarten for each age group. He discussed the Gold Objectives and Assessments as required by the State of Iowa. He provided some of the Literacy objectives as examples for the Board along with observation tools that are used by teachers. The Board expressed appreciation for the comprehensiveness of the program and how it prepares students for Kindergarten and beyond.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Nothing to add at this time.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
Parents addressed the Board to express thanks for the work of the Board, then spoke in favor of removal of the mask policy currently in place for a number of reasons for the remainder of the current school year. Additional concerns expressed included: Concerns about the contact tracing and quarantine of students—how many students who were quarantined were then diagnosed with COVID-19? Is there a way to bend the rules and make masks optional within the school setting? Has there been consideration of the ISASP testing results because of the mask requirements—a recognition of the importance of the tests? Mental health issues related to masking were noted. The public forum ended at 7:37p.m. with the Public Hearings interspersed during this time at 7:15 pm. And 7:20 p.m. as noted below in the Finance Section.
Consent Items
Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of March 22, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for March 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for April 12, 2021; Prepaid Bills; and Hills Bank ACH Transactions for March 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Laura Whitehall requests Hank Whitehall (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Zach Williams and Skyler Winter request Dexter Williams (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Matt and Sarah Stoutner request Quinn Stoutner (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Andy and Deanne Townsend request Adin Townsend (Grade 3), Ahna Townsend (Grade 7), Andrew Townsend (Grade 11), Anthony Townsend (Grade 1), and Ashton Townsend (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Michaela Tinnes requests Milo Tinnes (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Lincoln Cobb requests Graecyn Cobb (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Tyler and Staci Friese request Carson Friese (Kindergarten) attend Keota Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Greg Jergens, East Elementary Principal, $95,000 per annum to be begin August 1, 2021—this was added to the Consent Agenda by Superintendent Schneider;
Contract issued to Adrianna Pacha, High School English Teacher, $38,906 per annum to be updated to 2021-2022 rate at IBB settlement;
Contract issued to Mikayla Ulin, Middle School Art Teacher, $38,906 per annum to be updated to 2021-2022 rate at IBB settlement;
Contract issued to Jamie Clark, 7th Grade Girls Assistant Track Coach, $1,499.25 per season;
Contract issued to Aaron Fleming, 8th Grade Girls Assistant Track Coach, $2263.87 per season;
Resignation of Haley LeGrande, HS Special Education Teacher, $38,906 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Resignation of Kara Beatty, HS Special Education Teacher, $42,275 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Resignation of Jay Strickland, HS Principal, $121,980 per annum, effective end of 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Resignation of Gerry Beeler, Bus Driver, $25.69 per hour, effective April 23, 2021;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie Baseball requests approval to raise funds by conducting a youth baseball camp between May 7th and May 14th for the purchase of equipment, supplies, and coaches apparel;
Home School Assistance Program Roots and Shoots group requests approval to raise funds with free will donations through the Spring Annual Flower Fundraiser, Fall Mum Fundraiser and other related activities involving plants and growing between April of 2021 to April of 2022 for sustainability of greenhouse activities to provide growing and learning opportunities for Home School students and families;
Class of 2023 requests approval to raise funds during the Grand March on April 24th by freewill donation for Prom expenses for Spring of 2022.
Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
High School Boys Varsity Basketball Trip to Kansas City
Superintendent Schneider and Board President Gugel asked if there were any questions from the Work Session.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the Boys Basketball participation in the event on December 22, 2021 to Kansas City Missouri. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
District Mask Policy
President Gugel opened the Board discussion by asking for comments. Board members discussed the current rule/policy and approach, as well as the current situation and data within the District. One of the largest issues is the necessity to quarantine if the Washington County Health Department Guidelines are followed. There were opinions expressed in favor of making masks optional—noting that students and staff are out and about the community without masks. Recognition that the no matter what decision is made, there are those in the community who will not be pleased. The original decision to implement the mask policy was not made in fear, but to assure that students could stay in school.
Marianne Schlabach moved to leave the current District Mask Policy in place for the remainder of the 2020-2021 School Year. Gabrielle Frederick Seconded the motion. Motion failed 3-4 with Jeremy Pickard, Mary Allred, Jodi Meader, and Jeremy Gugel voting against the motion.
Mary Allred moved to make masks optional and return to mandatory masks for a building when the building positive COVID sickness rate is 2.5% on a 7 day rolling average basis. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion failed 3-4 with Marianne Schlabach, Jeremy Pickard, Gabrielle Frederick, and Denise Chittick voting against the motion.
Jeremy Pickard moved to make masks highly recommended for students and staff at East Elementary, West Elementary, Mid-Prairie Middle School and the Home School Education Center and return to mandatory masks by building if the 7-day rolling average in a building is 3% or higher of COVID Positive, COVID Quarantined, and Other Illness as counted among students beginning April 26, 2021. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion Carried 4-3 with Gabrielle Frederick, Mary Allred, and Marianne Schlabach voting against the motion.
Mary Allred moved to make masks highly recommended for students and staff at Mid-Prairie High School and return to mandatory masks in the building if the 7-day rolling average in a building is 3% or higher of COVID Positive, COVID Quarantined, and Other Illness as counted among students beginning April 26, 2021. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion Carried 4-3 with Marianne Schlabach, Jeremy Gugel, and Gabrielle Frederick voting against the motion.
Denise Chittick moved to require mandatory masks in school vehicles if any school building in the District is 3% or higher of COVID Positive, COVID Quarantined, and Other Illness as counted among students and staff beginning April 26, 2021. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
7:15pm Public Hearing on the 2021-22 Certified Budget
President Gugel opened the floor for the Public Hearing to allow for input on the Certified Budget for 2021-2022 School Year. This was published in the local paper on March 25, 2021, and April 1, 2021. No one spoke from the public. Gugel closed the public hearing at 7:16 p.m.
Approve the 2021-22 Certified Budget
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber recommended the Board approve the 2021-2022 Fiscal Year Budget for filing to the Washington Auditors Office and Iowa Department of Management by April 15, 2021.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the 2021-22 Certified Budget as presented. Jodi Meader seconded the motion.
7:20pm Public Hearing on the 2020-21 Budget Amendment
President Gugel opened the floor for the Public Hearing to allow for input on the 2020-2021 Budget Amendment. This was published in the local paper on March 25, 2021, and April 1, 2021. The Amendment addresses the additional expenses incurred in this Fiscal Year related to COVD-19 Relief Funds. No one spoke from the public. Gugel closed the public hearing at 7:21 p.m.
Approve the 2020-21 Budget Amendment
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber recommended the Board approve the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year Budget Amendment filing to the Iowa Department of Management.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the 2020-21 Budget Amendment as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Redemption of 2014 General Obligation School Bonds and Approval of the Levying of Property Tax for Fiscal Year 2021-22 for the Redemption.
Superintendent Schneider recommends a continuation of the use of an Additional Debt Levy to pay off bonds more quickly to save interest costs and improve the prospects of future bond issues by opening more levy room for property taxes. The current maximum levy is $2.70. This Year, Fiscal Year 2021, was the third year for the additional levy and resolution where the District levied $580,000 additional funds for debt service to be paid in July of 2021—a three-year total of $1,430,000. This will save the District $576,800 in interest over four years. The resolution presented for approval tonight is for $680,000 additional Debt Levy for Fiscal Year 2022. It will save the District $148,225 of interest. The resolution is recommended for approval and will maximize the Debt Service Levy at $2.695, of which $1.25 is the additional Debt Service Levy.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Resolution authorizing the redemption of General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2014, dated August 1, 2014, approving a fourth amendment to escrow an amended and substituted Paying Agent, Bond Registrar and Transfer Agent Agreement, and Levying a tax for Fiscal Year 2021-22 for the redemption of General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2014, dated August 1, 2014 in the amount of $680,000. Denise Chittick 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
There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 26, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Superintendent Schneider announced that the Interest Based Bargaining Team reached a tentative agreement for a compensation package for the 2021-2022 School Year at their meeting earlier this afternoon. MPEA/MPESSA are preparing to take the agreement to the Association for a vote. Once ratified by the Association, there will be a Special Board Meeting within the next week to approve the agreement, and then contracts and work agreements can be prepared for staff signature.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:35p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
March 22, 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, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 7-0.
WORK SESSION
District Mask Policy
Board President Gugel noted that this is a discussion of the Mask Policy. No action will be taken today. The Board discussed the various aspects to consider if the mask policy were to be changed before the end of the School Year. Is “Highly Recommended” instead of “Mandated” an option especially since it is so close to the end of the year and would provide an option to see how it might go in the Fall for School Year 2021-2022? There was discussion about waiting until staff are fully vaccinated, which would be April 16th, or 2 weeks after the second vaccination date of April 2nd, thus Monday, April 19th could be considered as a potential change date. Questions were asked about year-end standards tests being available to be taken at home. Tests from home may not be available immediately in the current structure but could be available in May. Additionally, ACT testing has a late window for a later testing date in June. There was encouragement to look at the positions taken by the Health Departments—Washington County Health Department, in particular, and in that vein consider leaving the current policy in place. The quarantine issue has not changed to date even in the face of freedom of choice by families and the cascading effect on the choice to other families who may be affected. There is a need to look forward to next School Year so that families can make plans for their students. If the quarantine instructions change, then there could be impetus to make the change to policy. There is inconsistency of mask use inside of school versus outside of school for students and staff, and due to that inconsistency there is a question of the overall effectiveness in the current policy. Questions were asked of the Administrators about how a change in decision/policy will change the approach within their buildings? Academically, the students are operating and locked into the pattern of the day, while also trying to keep things as normal as possible. And, there is not a blueprint for how this will change because of how deep the students are into the school year. Contact tracing would change dramatically if the percentage of non-mask wearers increased. Because of mask wearers, contact tracing has been reduced when both/most students are wearing masks. Finally, what does the Health Department want to see to change or eliminate the quarantine procedures?
High School Presentation
Principal Jay Strickland provided a “fireside chat” on the High School. He first invited the Board to come spend the day with him. The High School staff have been working on consistency of expectations of behavior in the classroom and in other parts of the buildings. This was started January of 2020 before COVID shut things down. This year the staff has been processing the approach in consistency with Tier I behavior. When the last semester starts in two weeks, they will begin to implement the Tier II behavior processes. There has also been a focus on failing grades/incomplete grades. One focus area in the last semester will be for teachers to record their late work approaches. Parental involvement is encouraged, especially for academic scheduling, which has led to more intentional sharing with parents. He closed by discussing the positives/blessings that he has observed throughout the School Year, especially with the challenges of COVID-19.
Finance Presentation
Agenda items moved to the end of the meeting
Board Development and In-Service 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.
A parent commented on the mask discussion, the students’ mental health, and encouraged the Board to make a good decision and not necessarily the easy decision, or the political decision. Another parent shared their view on the use of mask and the protection of other people. A student shared that their concern is for the children/students not yet being vaccinated, and their hope to keep current policy in place through the end of the year.
Consent Items
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of March 8, 2021;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for March 22, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Nathan and Dianna Geiger request Tayem Geiger (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Fletcher and Makenzie Flynn request Taytum Flynn (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Kelly and April Grimm request Logan Grimm (Grade 11) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Korin Manson requests Arissa Manson (Grade 2) and Tucker Manson (Grade 4) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Derek and Abbie Yoder request Macauley Yoder (Grade 6) and Vivian Yoder (Grade 3) attend Iowa City Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Derick and Kim Cranston request Izabella Cranston (Grade 10) attend Iowa City Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contracts issued – None at this meeting;
Resignation of Casey Leonard, Middle School Art Teacher, $44,273 per annum, effective end of the 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Resignation of Rebecca Rensema, K-8 Academic Enrichment Teacher, $43,267 per annum, effective end of the 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Resignation of Diann McFerrin, HSAP Coordinator, $49,190 per annum, effective end of the 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Resignation of William Poock, West Elementary Principal, $109,670 per annum, effective end of the 2020-2021 Contract Year;
Fundraising Requests
Mid-Prairie Softball requests approval to raise funds through “Smash for Cash” a pledge drive based on zone hitting by players to be used for equipment, additional coaches, coaches attire, and field updates;
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Middle School Principal
Superintendent Schneider discussed the interview process for the open Middle School Principal Position. He also provided some background on the candidate of choice. He recommends the hire of Robert Hruby for the Middle School Principal position effective August 1, 2021 for the 2021-2022 School Year. The starting salary will be $100,000 with a total package with benefits of $140,838.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the hire of Robert Hruby at a salary of $100,000 annually and additional benefits with a start date of August 1, 2021 subject to the completion of acceptable background checks. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Approval of the School Calendar 2021-2022
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the 2021-2022 School Calendar, noted the questionnaire, and noted the process with IBB. He also explained a bit of detail related to the Wednesday early out dates. President Gugel asked if there were any additional questions on the school calendar. A motion was called for either approving the Calendar or tabling it for further study.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve School Calendar for 2021-2022 as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
Middle School Controls
Superintendent Schneider updated the Board on the current status of the recommendation to improve the HVAC Controls at the Middle School and asked for additional questions. He clarified that the improvements would need to be approved by the Department of Education to use ESSER II and III funds, though it is thought approval for this would be quite likely. The cost of the repairs is quoted at $84,900 and an addendum of $9,100 to make all of the equipment the same for the building. The project will be completed this Summer if approved. A completed questionnaire will be required by the Department of Education prior to the use of ESSER II funds.
Jeremy Pickard moved to approve proceeding with the improvement of the HVAC controls at the Middle School with CI3 at a cost not to exceed of $100,000. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Set Date and Time for the Public Hearing for 2020-21 Certified Budget Amendment
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber highlighted the Public Hearing document for the amendment of the 2020-2021 School Year Budget. The area being amended is the instruction category as an increase from $13,100,000 to $15,000,000. This recognizes the increase in expenditures due to COVID. These expenditures have been covered by additional Federal Funds in the various relief legislation that has been enacted. 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 next School Board Meeting on April 12, 2021 at 7:20 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. A Notice of Public Hearing that includes the Budget Amendments for 2020-2021 is set to be published in The News upon approval.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve setting the date for the Public Hearing on the 2020-2021 Amendment of Current Budget for April 12, 2021 at 7:20 p.m. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Set the Date and Time for the Public Hearing of the 2021-22 Budget
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Swartzentruber recommend a Public Hearing for the proposed 2021-2022 Budget be set for April 12, 2021 at 7:15pm in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. A Notice of Public Hearing that includes the Budget Summary for Fiscal 2021-2022 is set to be published in the News upon approval.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Notice of Public Hearing on the 2021-2022 Proposed Budget for Monday, April 12, 2021 at 7:15p.m. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
Finance Presentation – Moved from the First Work Session
Business Manager Swartzentruber presented on the Certified Budget process for 2021-2022 School Year. He focused on the different trends in enrollment, revenue generation, Property Tax Levy amounts, and Spending Authority. The Certified Budget Process needs to be completed by April 15, 2021, subsequent to a Public Hearing on the Budget that is scheduled for April 12, 2021. The Property Tax Levy filing will be for $13.23 per $1,000 of taxable value if approved as presented. This would be an increase of $0.05 per $1,000 from last year. The rate is held down by a 4% increase in taxable property values in the District. Property taxes fund approximately 29% of the total revenues collected by the District.
Announcements
Board Development and In-Service Activities
Nothing Added
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 12, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget and a Public Hearing on the Revised Fiscal Year 2021 Budget, Facilities Planning, Building and Program Presentation, and Mask Discussion/Decision.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:14 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
March 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 (arrived to the meeting at 6:17 p.m.), and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Jeremy Pickard (arrived to the meeting at 6:17 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Cindy Malichky, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
Shive-Hattery School District Grounds Study
Civil Engineer Matt Klein from Shive-Hattery gave a presentation on the different options for the High School athletic grounds. Project costs were given along with maps. The Board asked for more information from Shive-Hattery. Jeremy Pickard arrived at 6:17 p.m. during this agenda item.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Superintendent Schneider said four Middle School principal candidates were interviewed today and four more candidates will be interviewed tomorrow. The plan is to have a recommendation for the March 22 Board meeting. The administrators gave brief updates for their buildings.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Nothing of note at this time.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
Agenda item moved to the end of the meeting.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum – 7:00 p.m.
Six parents spoke about Mid-Prairie’s requirement for face masks. They would like to know what will be required in the near future and if masks can be optional.
Consent Items
Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of February 22, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for February 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for March 8, 2021; Prepaid Bills; and Hills Bank ACH Transactions for February of 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Chuck Gent and Trisha Parizek request Karlee Parizek (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valley Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Sarah Lyle requests Emma Lyle (Grade 8) and Rena Lyle (Grade 4), attend Mid-Prairie from Fort Madison Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Terry and Megan Allen request Kylie Allen (Grade 10), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Jodie Beinhart requests Adelinn Beinhart (Grade 4) and Isabell Beinhart (Grade 2), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Bethany Moore requests Zephyr Moore (Grade 1) and Zion Moore (Grade3), attend Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy from Montezuma Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Megan Vanderlinden requests Madison Vanderlinden (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Julie Tweedt requests Maverick Tweedt (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Kati Bradshaw requests Abigail Bradshaw (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Deb Lee requests Lily Lee (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Mark and Bethany Lingard request Georgianna Lingard (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Ben and Kristin Peiffer request Kaylin Peiffer (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Shannon Babbitt requests Anna Babbitt (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Amy Vander Busard requests Anna Busard (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Elizabeth Stumpf requests Kean Curtis (Grade 7) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Robert and Lisa LeSage request Khloe LeSage (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Michael and Chia-wen Moon request Aidan Moon (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Emmarie Poolman requests Miles Poolman (Grade 7), Nico Poolman (Grade 5), and Nina Poolman (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Steve and Mindy Scheperle request Samuel Scheperle (Grade 3) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Jacob and Rachel Schunk request August Schunk (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Tom and Kari Woodward request Alexander Woodward (Grade 3), Iving Woodward (Grade 7), and Margaret Woodward (Grade 9) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Elizabeth Hinkhouse requests Henry Hinkhouse (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from West Branch Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Justin and Ranee Brokaw request Ezra Brokaw (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Kelly and April Grimm request Logan Grimm (Grade 11) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Dietrich and Shannon Johnson request Trevor Johnson (Grade 7) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Elizabeth Adkins-Hernandez requests Michael Hernandez (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Winfield Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Holly Tedder requests Layla Tedder (Grade 8), Lilly Tedder (Grade 9), and Wyatt Tedder (Grade 10) attend Clear Creek Amana Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Holly Tedder requests Layla Tedder (Grade 8), Lilly Tedder (Grade 9), and Wyatt Tedder (Grade 10) attend Iowa City Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement Issued to Erin Campbell, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $13.76 per hour;
Contract Issued to Amy Mercer, HS English Teacher Full-time, $46,621 per annum 2020-2021 Schedule;
Contract issued to Aaron Coghlan, Middle School 8th Grade Boys Track Coach, $2,267.00 per annum;
Resignation of Alexis Duwa, Middle School Softball Coach, $2,444.00 per season, effective February, 2021;
Fundraising Requests
Girls and Boys Golf requests approval to raise funds through a community invited golf clinic at the Indoor Practice Facility on March 13th for the purchase of practice equipment, driving range fees, golf balls, practice rounds, and team & coach apparel;
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Eagle Scout Graduation Cord
Representatives from the local Scout Troop asked the Board to consider allowing any Eagle Scout that is graduating to wear a special cord at graduation. Gabrielle Frederick made the motion that students be allowed to wear a cord for something achieved during their four years of High School that is a component of community service by a recognizable organization approved by administration. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-2, Jeremy Pickard and Mary Allred voted no.
English Language Learner Staffing
Superintendent Schneider presented information given to him by our current ELL teacher, Karalee Smith. With an increase in beginning students, there is a need for more staffing. Jeremy Pickard made the motion to create a half-time ELL teacher position. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Licensed Employee Early Notification of Non-Renewal
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. Gabrielle Frederick made the motion to approve a non-renewal incentive of $1,500.00 for this school year for licensed employees submitting their resignations prior to the third Friday of March and $750.00 for those resigning prior to the second Friday of April.
Jeremy Pickard seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
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
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, March 22, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Certified Budget Presentation by Business Manager, High School annual presentation, Work Session item on the mask mandate, and the 2021-22 calendar.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
February 22, 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 (arrived at 6:35 p.m.), and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 6:35 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland. Tyler Hotz was present for the Facilities discussion.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jodi Meader. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
2020 Audited Financial Statements Report
Business Manager Jeff Swartzentruber directed the Board’s attention to the finalized audited financial statements for the Fiscal Year ended June 30, 2020. He noted the audit opinion—a clean opinion, key items within the statement and finished with the internal controls report and audit recommendation. There was time for the Board to ask questions about the report. Swartzentruber also distributed the February 11, 2021 letter from the auditors to the School Board as requested by the auditors.
Long Term Facilities Planning
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the Shive-Hattery Board Report from January 2020 in some detail in order to reintroduce the Board and reorient to the process and possible next steps. This project was tabled due to the COVID pandemic that began in the Spring of 2020. The Facilities Committee met in early February for a review of the 2020 report and an update of some newer project needs. Tyler Hotz, Activities Director, discussed some additional developments since the Report. These items included expanding the current wrestling room, or expanding the indoor practice facility, resurface and improve the outdoor track, and softball field improvement, especially for lighting of the current facility. The Board asked questions on the new items. Schneider then asked the Board what information they might need to further the conversation. The Board provided initial input and questions for consideration—included were priorities, alternatives, and finances.
Jeremy Pickard arrived during this agenda item at 6:35 p.m.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
This item was skipped due to time and the Administrators were dismissed.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
This item was tabled due to time constraints in the Work Session.
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
Jodi Meader moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of February 8, 2021 and February 15, 2021 Special Meeting;
Finance Report
None presented at this time;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for February 22, 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Catherine Moen requests Trever Moen (Grade 10), attend Mid-Prairie from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2020-21 School Year;
Kathy Dake requests Adalyn Wodstrohill (Grade 4), attend Mid-Prairie from Cedar Rapids Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Matthew and Brianna Clarahan request Brooks Clarahan (Grade 3) and Tate Clarahan (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Mike and Keyle Jenn request Madalyn Jenn (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Cristina Oyazrun requests Cristian Cespedes-Oyrarzun (Grade 7) and Giovanni Cespedes-Oyarzun (Grade 4), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Jake and Madelynn Dickinson request Rowan Dickinson (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Jared and Katelyn Hammen request Charles Hammen (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Breena Luers requests Jayde Luers (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Maggie Baker requests Levi Baker (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Natalie Witte requests Annabel Witte (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Eric and Mandi Lueck request Lorelei Lueck (Grade 10) attend Highland Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Maria Flores, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $13.76 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Sylesta Martens, High School General Cook, $13.60 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Jodi Schultz, High School General Cook, $13.60 per hour;
Fundraising Requests – None presented for Approval
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Second Reading – Review Series 500 Board Policies
The Board reviewed the Series 500 Board Policies from the February 8, 2021 that passed on first reading. This specifically included Board Polices 503.1 Student Conduct; 503.5 Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint; 503.6 Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students.
Marianne Schlabach moved to approve on Second Reading the Series 500 School Board Policies as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance
Accept the June 30, 2020 Annual Independent Audit Report
Superintendent Schneider and Business Manager Jeff Swartzentruber presented the recently finalized Independent Audit Report for the School Year ended June 30, 2020.
Denise Chittick moved to accept the 2019-2020 Independent Audit Report as presented. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items
Announcements
Superintendent Schneider reported on the Middle School Principal search. 34 formal applications were received. The committee of 40 people met last week to discuss priorities and then broke into interview teams. Interviews will be March 8th and 9th with plans to interview 7 or 8 candidates. A goal is to finish up the interview process with the committees before Spring Break. During Spring Break, Schneider will conduct second round of interviews with finalist candidates. The goal is to bring a recommendation to hire at the March 22nd Board Meeting.
Superintendent Schneider discussed the Virtual Academy Principal interview process. It will be less rigorous than the Middle School Principal search.
The Governor signed the SSA increase at 2.4% for the 2021-2022 School Year. This would be approximately $210,000 of new money.
The HVAC system controls at the Middle School will most likely be replaced with CARES Act Funds. Schneider reported on the developing legal opinion about buying a specific proprietary system without a formal bid process.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, March 8, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Facilities Planning with an invitation to Shive-Hattery to report on some of their additional studies of the new projects.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:19 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
February 15, 2021 – 6:30 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.
Staff Present: Superintendent Mark Schneider; Activities Director Tyler Hotz.
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick. Motion carried 7-0.
Spectator Ticket Policy for District Boys Basketball Game
Superintendent Schneider noted as there is a limit to the capacity to the gymnasium for the District Boys Basketball Game on Thursday, February 18, 2021. A request has been made to sell tickets the first 400 people to enter the facility. Hotz shared that all tickets will be purchased on-line via the IHSAA established protocols. All tickets must be pre-purchased prior to the event. Discussion ensued whether or not there should be a recognition to hold tickets for family members of the athletes, coaches and managers. The Board discussed the pros and cons of the various ticket distribution methods.
Jodi Meader moved that no ticket restriction be in place for the District Boys Basketball Game. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:51 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie High School Multi-Purpose Room, Wellman, IA 52356
February 8, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Marianne Schlabach, and Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 6:25 p.m.; left at 6:50 p.m.; returned to the meeting at 7:05 p.m.).
Board members absent: Gabrielle Frederick, and Jeremy Pickard (arrived to the meeting at 6:25 p.m. left at 6:50 p.m.; returned to the meeting at 7:05 p.m.).
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Jay Strickland.
Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jodi Meader. Motion carried 5-0.
WORK SESSION
Middle School HVAC Controls
Superintendent Schneider, District Building and Grounds Manager Maury Gallagher, and Middle School Lead Custodian updated the Board on the status of the Middle School HVAC Controls. The Middle School currently has Siemens DDC controls installed by Modern Controls in 2015 during the geothermal upgrade. There has been nothing but issues since these were installed because of lowest bid status. All other buildings in the District use the CI3 controls and have experience few to no issues. A quote from CI3 using Schneider Electric DDC Controls has been obtained. A base quote of 84,900.00 with an additional option to replace 2 stand-alone Johnson Controls DDC controllers for $9,100.00 was discussed. There is a need to get a comparable bid, although we are consulting legal counsel on exactly what needs to happen, and we are still investigating it. The funds to pay for this project will come from CARES Act dollars—ESSER II Funds. The Board asks questions for clarification on cost savings for utilities and service calls. There is no recommended action for tonight as this is to bring the Board up to date on the current situation. The Board informally asked for Schneider to continue to pursue this course of action.
Jeremy Pickard arrived at 6:25 during this agenda item
Chapter 103 Rules & School Board Policies
Superintendent Schneider and Amy Shalla, Special Education Administrator, updated the Board that the State Board of Education has adopted final rules concerning student restraint and seclusion. These means that the changes are necessary for certain Series 500 policies that touch on these issues in addition to revisions made during the recent review process. Shalla discussed these changes in detail and how these affect students and classroom procedures. The Board Policies related to these new revisions will need to be acted upon to meet the requirements. The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding of the issues.
Facilities Committee
Superintendent Schneider reviewed the last Facilities Committee meeting of February 3, 2021. This is an opportunity for the Committee to regroup following the Committee’s final report in January of 2020 prior to the COVID pandemic. A few new facility issues have occurred since that report. The February 8th meeting was an opportunity to bring the committee up to date on the issues and changes to their previous work. Significant time will be devoted to Facilities in the Board’s agendas this Spring. Bond refinance for General Obligation Bonds will be a part of the Board’s process.
Principal Positions
Superintendent Schneider provided his thoughts to the Board on the processes to hire a New Middle School Principal and a permanent Virtual Academy Principal. The Virtual Academy Principal position has not been opened to the outside—as this is a half time position. The Middle School Principal position is open to both inside and outside applicants—currently there are approximately 20 applicants. Schneider is reaching out to staff and community members to serve on the Middle School Principal interview committee. A Middle School student group will also be included in the process. Because of COVID concerns and space issues, some of this process may not be held on the Middle School campus but could be at the City of Kalona. Board members expressed appreciation for Pennington’s commitment to the District over the past 17 years as both an educator and an administrator.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
The Board asked about the possibility of Virtual days instead of strictly staying with Snow Days that are added to the end of the calendar. The Administrators will have a meeting to discuss this. There is some struggle with the quality of virtual learning from home as well as the quality/availability of internet and lack of 1:1 computer equipment in the elementary grades. Currently, the last day of school is scheduled to be the 1st of June, the Tuesday after Memorial Day.
The Board asked if there has been anything exceptional or exciting in the past months. It was noted that the extracurricular activities have been one source of joy for our students as not every state is allowing activities. Administrators recognized staff for stepping up to help each other to get through the day when wrinkles occur. Tracy Fisher and Mark Kleese were recognized for their efforts on clearing snow during the past few weeks with the large amounts of snow that have come down.
Jeremy Pickard left the meeting at 6:50 p.m.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Nothing of note at this time.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, February 22, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Middle School HVAC Controls, Begin discussion of facilities, and Second Readings on Policies.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of January 11, 2021;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for January 2021;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for January 25, 2021 and February 8, 2021; Prepaid Bills; and Hills Bank ACH Transactions for the month of January 2021;
Open Enrollment Requests
Misty Tyree requests Carsen Tyree (Grade 6) and Landen Tyree (Grade 9), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2020-21 School Year;
Nikaia Feltes requests Ariana Feltes (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Jake and Mackenzie Pedersen request Eleanor Pedersen (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from West Branch Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Greg and Mindy Lybeck request Hudson Lybeck (Grade 6) and McKinzie Lybeck (Grade 9) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2021-22 School Year;
Heather Brokaw requests Gracyn Brokaw (Alternative Kindergarten) and Hadley Brokaw (Alternative Kindergarten) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Josh Moore, Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach, $3,022 per annum;
Work Agreement issued to Rebecca Hathaway, West Elementary Special Education Paraprofessional, $13.76 per hour;
Resignation of Marc Pennington, Middle School Principal, $107,540 per annum, effective end of the 2020-2021 School Year;
Resignation of Kara Beatty, Middle School Boys Track Coach, $2,603 per annum, effective immediately;
Resignation of Erica Rosdail-Davis, West Elementary Special Education Paraprofessional, $13.79 per hour, effective February 5, 2021;
Fundraising Requests
Band and Choir request approval to raise funds through emailing and texting family and friends during the time period March 4th through 12th seeking direct donations to their programs in order to begin to raise funds for the next music trip;
Prom Request –Approve the attendance of Virtual Academy Students to attend the 2021 Prom event due to the impact of COVID-19 in the 2020-2021 School Year.
Marianne Schlabach seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Special Presentations
Honor Retiree
Superintendent Schneider and Board President Gugel introduced this time of recognition of Sue Schweinfurth, High School English Teacher. Schweinfurth will retire—take the early separation package—at the end of the 2020-2021 School Year with 30 years of service to the Mid-Prairie District. Opportunity was given for those in attendance to recognize Schweinfurth and thank her for her impact on the lives of students and colleagues. A number of staff and Board members told stories and expressed appreciation for Schweinfurth’s contributions as a leader, professional, and friend. Superintendent Schneider presented Sue Schweinfurth with a plaque in recognition of her service to the District and Community.
Jeremy Pickard returned to the meeting at 7:05p.m near the start of this agenda item.
Jeremy Pickard moved, with regret and congratulations, to approve the resignation and early retirement of Sue Schweinfurth. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
First Reading – Review Series 500 Board Policies
The Board reviewed the Series 500 Board Policies and discussed revisions and changes during the Work Session. This specifically included Board Polices 503.1 Student Conduct; 503.5 Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint; 503.6 Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students.
Jodi Meader moved to approve on First Reading the Series 500 School Board Policies as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
First Reading – Board Polices 503.1 Student Conduct; 503.5 Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint; 503.6 Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students
This agenda item was combined and approved as part of the previous agenda item.
Middle School HVAC Controls
Superintendent Schneider referred the Work Session agenda item on the Middle School HVAC Controls and asked if there were any questions. He noted that the Board should table this item as further research is completed. No action is requested at this time.
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.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
January 11, 2021 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jeremy Gugel called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Gugel, Jodi Meader, Jeremy Pickard (participated via Zoom until 7:50 p.m.), and Marianne Schlabach.
Board members absent: Mary Allred.
Also Present: Mark Schneider, Jeff Swartzentruber, Robin Foster, Rachel Kerns, Marc Pennington, Bill Poock, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, Jay Strickland, and Tyler Hotz.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 6-0.
WORK SESSION
Second Semester Early Out Schedule
Superintendent Schneider reported that the Interest Based Committee met today to discuss the need for and continuance of early outs for the remainder of the School Year—80%+ were in favor of continuing the 90 minute weekly early out. A handout that shows hours with this plan was shared with the board, leaving about 7 hours of cushion. If there are more than 3 late starts or early dismissals due to weather, then there is a plan to make up these hours. The IBC group recommends the Board consider modifications to the current approved schedule as follows: Change the Early Out Schedule for the Second Semester to 90 minute early outs every week beginning Wednesday, January 27th. If the recommendation is not acted upon the current approved schedule with 2-hour early outs will remain in effect for every other week beginning with January 27, 2021. The Board asked questions for clarification in their discussions.
School Bus Bids
Superintendent Schneider noted the bid acceptance recommendation for Hoglund Bus Sales for the purchase of two buses at a price of 108,000 each. Once delivered, there will be two existing buses that will be terminated from the fleet in accordance with the VW State Grant under which these two buses are being purchased. The Grant provisions as followed will result in a reimbursement of up to 25% of the purchase price not to exceed $55,000. At the current price that amount is $52,000.
Spectators at Activities
Superintendent Schneider and Activities Director Hotz discussed the approach to Spectators at Activities given the Governors recent proclamation. Schools may now open up to spectators as each school decides with provisions for social distancing between households. The conference AD’s discussed their individual approaches to be followed up with a conference Google document. Hotz also shared about conversations with head coaches of Winter Sports and their desire to have spectators. However, it is also noted that the consideration for the spread of the virus is in the forefront of people’s minds. The Board asked questions and discussed that oversight for social distance measures and are not in favor of having administrators or staff enforcing social distance parameters. The Board also discussed setting parameters and keeping them consistent rather than open all the way and then tighten it down after seeing results and then re-open, etc.
Board Member and Administrator Dialogue
Administrators reported that the Work Day was helpful today. Some students are returning to the classroom from Virtual Academy. Virtual Academy will see their counts decline to 102 students due students returning to the classroom at the end of the break over the next two weeks—the high point student count was 191 students in the first half of the School Year. Administrators discussed some of the strategies of reintroducing students back into the classroom as these transitions continue to develop. Kindergarten registration planning is underway with a goal to be completed by February 1st using a Google Form on-line approach. Preschool registration will run simultaneously to Kindergarten registration. Home School reported that 7 students have returned to the traditional school classes. Home School families are making great progress.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
There are no activities to report. And, there is nothing on the calendar through IASB.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, January 25, 2021, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: First/Second readings on Board Policies; Discussion of 2021-2022 School Calendar issues; and Early Retirement will be discussed.
Interest-Based Bargaining Negotiations Strategy Session
Superintendent Schneider introduced this time as an opportunity for School Board members to identify areas of concern and/or interest statements to be discussed during upcoming IBB meetings. This will assist the Board Representatives—Gugel and Chittick—with information to present to IBB.
BUSINESS MEETING
Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.
No one spoke.
Consent Items
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items, except for Personnel Items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of December 14, 2020;
Finance Report
The Finance Report through December of 2020;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for January 11, 2021; Prepaid Bills; and Hills Bank ACH Transactions for the month of December 2020;
Open Enrollment Requests
Alisha Troyer requests Arya Troyer (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2020-21 School Year;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Aaron Coghlan, MS 8th Grade Boys Assistant Basketball Coach, $1,559 per annum;
Contract Issued to Christine Meader, HS Assistant Musical Director; $2087 per season;
Fundraising Requests
FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Strawberrys from February 1st to February 12th for School Leadership Activities and Community Service Activities;
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Consent Item for Personnel items. Denise Chittick seconded. Motion carried 5-0 with Jodi Meader abstaining from this vote.
Student Learning
Second Semester Early Out Schedule
With the Discussion during the Work Session of the Early Out Schedule, a recommendation for consideration by the Board was made in the Work Session to change the Early Out Schedule for the Second Semester to 90 minute early outs every week beginning Wednesday, January 27th.
Jeremy Pickard moved to modify the early out schedule for the second semester to include the recommendation from IBB on the 90 minute weekly early out schedule. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
School Bus Buds
The recommendation is to accept the lowest bid from Hoglund Bus Company for two School Buses at $216,000 in total, or $108,000 per propane-powered bus.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the bid from Hoglund School Bus Sales in the amount of $216,000 for the purchase of two new school buses. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Spectators at Activities
Superintendent Schneider discussed the change in requirements for spectators at activities from 2 spectators per athlete plus siblings, and coaches and managers are treated the same as athletes as noted during the Work Session. Social distance considerations and maintenance of consistency were key concerns for Board members, especially if the approach were to be to go unlimited. Discussion about limiting the visiting team spectators and not limiting the Mid-Prairie spectators was also considered.
Jeremy Pickard moved to institute the spectator requirements as outlined in Governor Reynolds most recent proclamation. Jodi Meader seconded the motion. Motion failed 3-3, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, and Denise Chittick voted No.
Denise Chittick moved to institute the spectator requirements as outlined in Governor Reynolds most recent proclamation and allow unlimited Mid-Prairie fans to attend while limiting the visiting team fans to 2 tickets per athlete, manager, coach. Jeremy Pickard seconded the motion. Motion failed 2-4, Jeremy Gugel, Marianne Schlabach, Gabrielle Frederick, and Jodi Meader voted No.
Marianne Schlabach moved to allow up to 4 tickets per athlete, manager, coach and siblings along with encouraging social distancing. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 4-2, Jeremy Gugel and Jeremy Pickard voted No.
Modified Supplemental Amount for Dropout Prevention
Superintendent Schneider introduced the annual resolution for consideration. The request is for Modified Supplemental Aid for 2021-2022 Dropout Prevention Program of $251,796.00 to implement the At-Risk and Dropout Prevention program plans. The local match component is $83,932.00. It is recommended that the Board pass this resolution prior to the January 15, 2022 deadline.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the resolution by reading Resolution 011112101 for Additional Allowable Growth for Modified Supplemental Aid of $251,796.00 for implementation of the 2021-2022 School Year At-Risk and Dropout Prevention program plans. Jodi Meader seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes
Mary Allred - absent
Jodi Meader - yes
Jeremy Pickard - left the meeting at 7:50 p.m.
Marianne Schlabach - yes
Jeremy Gugel - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
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
Nothing added from earlier in the meeting.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m.