2024-2025 BOARD MINUTES

September 9, 2024

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA  52356

September 9, 2024 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Gabrielle Frederick.

Also Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.

Pledge of Allegiance

Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Jed Seward.  Motion carried 6-0.

Hawk Highlight – High School Student Sharing on Local and State Fair Experiences

Elsa Schmidt, High School FFA Teacher, introduced seven students to share about their local and state fair experiences and Summer Activities. Included activities were:  Officer Planning Retreat in early June; Livestock Judging competition; Summer FFA Social Activity is held; FFA volunteered at West Chester to do community clean up—and have done this for the past 15 years;  Eighteen students participated in the Washington County Fair; Three students participated in the Johnson County Fair; Twenty-one students exhibited at the State Fair as well as additional students served as ushers; Mid-Prairie was one of 60 FFA Chapters that participated in Photography; Mid-Prairie received a First Place Chapter in Floriculture.  The Board thanked the students for their presentation and thanked Mrs. Schmidt for her work and dedication to the Mid-Prairie Program.

Public Forum

A parent of students who open enroll into the Washington School District from Mid-Prairie spoke to request consideration and approval for her students to ride the Washington School District Bus.  They reside South and East of West Chester.  The Washington District currently has a bus drive by their home to pick up a Washington student.  There needs to be some additional work to determine if the situation requires Board approval or meets current State law.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of August 12, 2024 and August 26, 2024;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for August 2024 and the Near Final June 2024 End of Year Report;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for September 9, 2024; Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Open Enrollment In Requests total 13 students;

Open Enrolled Out Requests total 0 students;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Derek Kalm, Middle School Assistant Volleyball Coach, $2,140 per season;

Work Agreement issued to Kristy Burke, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.29 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Nicole Castillo, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.29 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Crystal Adair, High School General Cook, $15.28 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Robin Coffman, Middle School General Cook, $15.28 per hour;

Resignation of Marla Jennings, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.38 per hour, effective September 12, 2024;

Fundraising Requests

Post Prom requests approval to raise funds through a “Chuck a Duck” fundraiser held at the Football Game on September 19th to be used for Post Prom Activities in the Spring of 2025;

FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Homecoming T-shirts starting August 21st through September 14th to be used for community, student body, and leadership projects for the year;

The 2023-2024 Audit Engagement Letter

The audit engagement letter with Nolte, Cornman, and Johnson prior to the start of fieldwork on September 24, 2024.

Mary Allred seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 6-0.

Student Learning

Building and Department Reports

The Board reviewed the Administrators’ written reports to the Board.  Time was allotted to ask questions and discuss the reports.  A question was raised on the parking space at the Home School Education Center given the current growth of students in the Home School Assistance Program with 650+ students currently enrolled in the program to date.

Madrigal Choir Out of State Travel

Collette McClellen has requested permission to take the Madrigal Choir to Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois on October 13 and 14, 2024 to participate in the College’s honor choir event. 

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the Madrigal Choir to travel to Rock Island, Illinois on October 13-14, 2024 to participate in the Augustana College honor choir event.  Randy Billups seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Finance

Appoint a Delegate to the IASB Convention

School Business Official Swartzentruber reviewed the need to appoint a delegate for the Board at the State convention.  Jake Snider served as the delegate for the Board at last year’s State convention.  Jake was asked if he wished to continue in this role for the upcoming state convention on November 20-22, 2024.  The Board discussed appointing another delegate for the convention.  It was decided that Jake Snider would continue to be the delegate and as such no further action was needed.

Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Treasurer’s Report

SBO Swartzentruber presented the Fiscal Year 2024 Treasurer’s Report.  This is the report that is provided after the Certified Annual Report is submitted to the State Department of Education Portal by the September 16, 2024, due date.  Net Operating Fund Balance increased by $953,000 ($711,000 in Unassigned Fund Balance), compared to $396,000 for the previous fiscal year.  The SAVE Fund decreased $16,235 due in part to early expenditures for the General Obligation Bond project for which we are not able to recoup from the bond proceeds.  Debt Service decreased by $95,800 due to the additional early pay down on 2014 GO Bonds. The Nutrition Fund decreased by $58,500 as a result of less Federal funds made available for Nutrition.  While the District has raised lunch prices for the new School Year to slow the decline down, the cash position in the fund remains strong at $385,440.  Swartzentruber noted increases to the Student Activity Fund, Management Fund, PPEL Fund, and Capital Projects Funds.

Jed Seward moved to accept the Fiscal Year 2023-2024 Treasurers Report as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

IASB Convention is November 20-22, 2024.  Registration is now open.  Swartzentruber requested Board Members to begin registration soon as he would like to register all Board at the same time as much as possible.  Board Members provided feedback as to days they plan to attend.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, September 23, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.  Agenda items to include: Resolution for the Special Education Deficit from Fiscal Year 2024; 200.4 Board Policy Discussion; Cell Phone Policy Discussion; Work Session Items will be the primary focus of the meeting.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, October 14, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:10 p.m.

August 26, 2024

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA  52356

August 26, 2024– 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jake Snider.

Board members present:   Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:24 p.m.).

Board members absent:  Mary Allred, Randy Billups, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:24 p.m.).

Also Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.

Pledge of Allegiance

Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President

Jed Seward moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Ryan Schlabaugh.  Motion carried 4-0.

Business Meeting

Consent Items

Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for August 26, 2024, and prepaid bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Open Enrollment In Requests total 18 students;

Open Enrolled Out Requests total 1 students;

Personnel Items

Work Agreement issued to Anna Davila, Middle School General Cook, $15.28 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Matthew O’Brien, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.29 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Angelina Kazakov, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.29 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Tory Lybarger, East Elementary Paraprofessional 0.56 FTE, $15.29 per hour;

TLC Professional Partner Contracts for 2024-2025 Issued to:

Jill Hartsock, West Elementary                                  Sadie Barber, West Elementary

Amanda Smith, West Elementary                              Lisa Kesten, West Elementary

Amy Mercer, High School                                          Sara Puttmann, High School

Traci Zahradnek, High School                                   Denise Busch, Middle School

Resignation of Erin McCoy, Middle School Counselor, $47,500 per annum, effective 8/18/2024;

Resignation of Tobi Anderson, Middle School General Cook, $14.97 per hour, effective end of 2023-2024 Contract Year;

Fundraising Requests

Mid-Prairie Service Trip requests approval to raise funds through a 50/50 Raffle during homecoming week from September 9th to 13th for an out of state trip to help with cleanup after a disaster;

Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 4-0.

Finance

East Elementary Additional Special Education Paraprofessionals Proposal

Superintendent Stone discussed the need for additional Paraprofessionals at East Elementary.  Based upon identified student Individual Education Plan (IEP) needs, Greg Jergens, East Elementary Principal requests approval to hire 2 additional Full-time Equivalents (FTEs).  These positions will be charged to Special Education. The Board asked questions about the positions and needs.

Denise Chittick moved to approve two additional full-time paraprofessionals at East Elementary as presented.  Jed Seward second the motion.  Motion carried 4-0.

Work Session

IASB Needs Assessment

Superintendent Stone discussed the IASB Needs Assessment document before the Board and has done some additional research.  He believes we have much of this in place and is not inclined to recommend the District conduct a needs assessment.  Frederick asked if the SIAC committee could present to the Board after the next meeting.

(Jake Snider arrived at 6:24 p.m. at the end of this agenda item.) 

2025 IASB Legislative Priorities

Superintendent Stone and Business Manager Swartzentruber drew the Board’s attention to the IASB Legislative Priorities document for the 2024-2025 Legislative Year, especially starting with page 14.  The process starts with the Board review of this document and then the process to determine the priorities to communicate to IASB for next year.  The Board discussed the potential legislative priorities for the upcoming legislative session.

In the 2023-2024 Legislative Session the Board chose the priorities listed below:

  • Mental Health
  • Teacher Recruitment and Licensure
  • Teacher Professional Development and Retention
  • School Funding Policy

The Board reviewed the 2024 document to identify four to five priorities for the upcoming legislative session.  The Board included the following as focus items to IASB:

  • 2 – High-Quality Teacher Workforce
  • 3 – Diverse and Engaging Educational Experiences
  • 4 – Mental Health
  • 8 – Safe and Secure School Environment

Tammy Drawbaugh Information

Superintendent Stone shared the working document provided by Drawbaugh and focused on the “What Do You Want to be Known for in 5 Years?  At the next Work Session focus on the top portion of the “Student Success” category.  Look first at where are we at in those areas—data points and potentially, trends per building and/or per grade level.

Discussion from Previous Work Sessions About Additional Trade Classes and Options

Superintendent Stone shared the current trades class offerings offered at the High School as well as the Career Academy with Kirkwood.  Stone asked some questions of the Board to try to move toward a focus point and goals in and for the future.  Discussion about the District’s student participation in the Kirkwood program, strengthening relationships with Kirkwood, and partnering with other trades organizations.  Discussion about who leads, how leadership for the program is cultivated, and recognition these efforts would be an extension of the current High School program through outside organizations and partnerships. The District helps students learn of the different trades and trade skills that then expand into employment with a focus on the practical.  Stone will contact some other districts and Kirkwood to do additional fact finding and research.

Discussion on Board Policies 200.4 and 401.15

The Board briefly continued discussion on proposed Policy 200.4—Board Member Social Media Engagement and related existing Policy 401.15—Staff Technology Use/Social Networking last reviewed 8/22/2022.

Requested this be tabled to the next, or future Work Session.

E3, Safety Grant Update

Stone shared that the four buildings (does not include Home School) will receive $50,000 in grant funds.  Most of the focus is on technology related items.  Stone discussed some of the details of the grants including expectations and limitations.  Once the grant is “green lighted”, the process of identification and procurement can begin. 

Tour of Buildings:  High School, West Elementary, and Home School Education Center

The Board toured the West Elementary and Home School Education Center noted above to see the different improvements.  The tours was by Superintendent Stone.  High School improvements were discussed and the group elected to not tour the High School.

Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m. at the Home School Education Center.

August 12, 2024

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA  52356

August 12, 2024 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber called the meeting to order in the absence of both President Jake Snider and Vice President Gabrielle Frederick. Swartzentruber asked for a motion to appoint a President Pro Tem to act as chair of the meeting until one of the officers arrived.

Mary Allred moved to nominate Denise Chittick to be calls meeting to order and conducts election for Chairman Pro Tem.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.  Motion carried 4-0.

Chittick called the meeting to order and preformed the items down to through the Hawk Highlight.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:22 p.m.).

Board members absent:  Gabrielle Frederick, Randy Billups and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:22 p.m.).

Also Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.

Pledge of Allegiance

Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Jed Seward.  Motion carried 4-0.

Hawk Highlight – E3 System application presented by Brian Stone.  Allows for notifications and lockdown communication.  The Board watched a video on the E3 System.  It is both cell phone and desktop application for administration and staff.  It has flexibility to be adapted to the District, Buildings, and Groups.  The annual cost is $4,000 per year.  Initial setup and training is $3,000 should the District choose to move forward.  The state emergency response grant may be applicable though the District cannot commit to anything until the grant process is approved for the District.  It can be tied into law enforcement or county emergency response teams.  The Board

Jake Snider arrived during this agenda item at 6:22 p.m.

Public Forum

No one spoke.

President Snider assumed the chair of the meeting after the end of the Public Forum.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of July 8, 2024 and July 29, 2024;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for July 2024 and for the first accrual for Year to Date June 2024;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for August 12, 2024 and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Open Enrollment In Requests total 8 students;

Open Enrolled Out Requests total 4 students;

Personnel Items

Resignation of Kayla Schneider, West Elementary Preschool Paraprofessional; $15.38 per hour; effective end of 2023-2024 Contract;

Resignation of Sydney Miller, East Elementary Paraprofessional (20 hours), $15.32 per hour, effective end of 2023-2024 Contract;

Fundraising Requests – No fundraising request are submitted for approval;

Dance Team requests permission to raise funds working with Leading Edge Fundraising for one month beginning August 23, 2024 to raise funds for competitions, uniforms, choreography, and team apparel.

National FFA Convention Trip October 22-26, 2024 to Indianapolis – Student out of state travel approval for this annual convention;

28E Agreement with Kirkwood Community College on the College K-12 Partnership Agreement – For the current Fiscal Year 2024-2025 activities;

Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 5-0.

Finance and Long-Range Planning

Bank Depository Resolution for the 2024-2025 School Year

School Business Official Swartzentruber presented the resolution for the 2024 2025 School Year. This is the annual Depository Resolution required in August.  There are two changes from last year as spending on the Revenue Bonds completes and spending on the 2024 Issue General Obligation Bonds begins.

RESOLVED, that the Mid-Prairie Community School District of Wellman, Iowa in Washington County, Iowa approves the following list of financial institutions to be depositories of the Mid-Prairie School, all funds in conformance with all applicable provisions of Iowa Code Chapters 452 and 453 (1983) as amended by 1984 Iowa Acts. S.F. 2220.  The Business Manager/Board Secretary is hereby authorized to deposit the Mid-Prairie School funds in amounts not exceed the maximum approved for each respective financial institution as set out below.

 

                                                Location of          Maximum Balance           Maximum balance in

Depository name             Home Office       effect under prior            effect under this              

___________________ __________       resolution                          resolution                  .                                  

UMB Bank, N.A. (ISJIT)   Des Moines          3,000,000                             2,000,000

Hills Bank                             Hills                        25,000,000                           25,000,000

Federation Bank               Wellman                5,000,000                             5,000,000

CBI Bank & Trust               Kalona                    5,000,000                             6,000,000

Miles Capital Mgmnt      Des Moines          2,000,000                             2,000,000

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve 08122401 as presented reading from the resolution. Jed Seward seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote:    Gabrielle Frederick          - absent               Mary Allred                        - yes

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                    Ryan Schlabaugh              - yes

                          Randy Billups                   - absent               Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - abstain

Motion carried 4-0 (Chittick Abstained).

Accept the 2023 Annual Financial Audit

School Business Official, Jeff Swartzentruber presented a brief overview of the audited financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2023.  He handed out the Governance Letter to the Board as requested by the Auditors.  He noted the Auditor comments provided and the District response to those comments.  He also noted the later presentation date than in previous years and the reasons for the delay.

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to accept the 2022-2023 Audited Financial Statements as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Second Reading of IASB Board Policy Primer Updates

Superintendent Stone reviewed the changes as passed on First Reading at the July 8, 2024, meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • Policy 200.4 Board Member Social Media Engagement
  • Policy 401.6 Limitations to Employment References
  • Policy 501.12 Pregnant Students
  • Policy 501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Receiving District
  • Policy 502.6 Weapons
  • Policy 505.2 Student Promotion-Retention-Acceleration
  • Policy 603.1 Basic Instruction Program
  • Policy 603.12 Postsecondary Education Counseling
  • Policy 607.2 Student Health Services
  • Policy 708  Care, Maintenance, and Disposal of School District Records
  • Policy 710.1 School Food Program
  • Policy 801.3 Educational Specifications for Buildings and Sites
  • Policy 803.2 Lease, Sale or Disposal of School District Buildings and Sites

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Policies in the IASB Policy Primer.  Discussion was quite brief with concerns about 200.4 expressed.  It was asked that 200.4 be discussed further before any action on Second Reading is taken.

Jed Seward moved to approve the changes to Policies 401.6, 501.12, 502.6, 505.2, 603.1, 603.12, 607.2, 708, 710.1, 801.3, and 803.2 on Second Reading as presented.  Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Second Reading of Board Policy Chapter 700’s Non-Instructional Operations and Business Services

Superintendent Stone Board reviewed the changes as passed on First Reading at the July 8, 2024, meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  All policies were reviewed due to changes with IASB model policy language.  Chapter 700 Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • Policy 701.1 Depository of Funds
  • Policy 701.2 Transfer of Funds
  • Policy 701.3 Financial Records
  • Policy 701.4 Governmental Accounting Practices and Regulations
  • Policy 702 Cash in School Buildings
  • Policy703.1 Budget Planning
  • Policy 703.2 Spending Plan (This is removed)
  • Policy 704.1 Local – State – Federal – Miscellaneous Revenue
  • Policy 704.3 Investments
  • Policy 704.4 Gifts – Grants – Bequests
  • Policy 705.1 Purchasing – Bidding
  • Policy 705.4 Expenditures for a Public Purpose
  • Policy 706.2 Payroll Deductions
  • Policy 707.4 Audit
  • Policy 709 Insurance Program
  • Policy 710.2 Free or Reduced Cost Meals Eligibility
  • Policy 711.8 Transportation in Inclement Weather
  • Policy 713 Responsible Technology Use and Social Networking

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Chapter 700 Policies.  There was no additional discussion.

Jed Seward moved to approve the changes to Policies 701.1, 701.2, 701.3, 701.4, 702, 703.1, 703.2 (Removed), 704.1, 704.3, 704.4, 705.1, 705.4, 706.2, 707.4, 709, 710.2, 711.8, and 713 on Second Reading as presented.  SS seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Second Reading of Board Policy Chapter 800’s Buildings and Sites

Superintendent Stone Board reviewed the changes as passed on First Reading at the July 8, 2024, meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  All policies were reviewed.  Chapter 800 Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • 804.4 Asbestos-Containing Material

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Chapter 800 Policies.  There was no additional discussion.

Jed Seward moved to approve the changes to Policy 804.4 on Second Reading as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Second Reading of Board Policy Chapter 900’s School District-Community Relations

Superintendent Stone Board reviewed the changes as passed on First Reading at the July 8, 2024, meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  All policies were reviewed.  Chapter 900 Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • Chapter 903.1 School-Community Groups
  • Chapter 903.2 Community Resources Persons and Volunteers
  • Chapter 903.3 Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites
  • Chapter 903.4 Public Conduct on School Premises
  • Chapter 904.1 Transporting Students in Private Vehicles
  • Chapter 904.2 Advertising and Promotion
  • Chapter 905.2 Smoke-Free Environment

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Chapter 900 Policies.  Discussion was quite brief.  Stone provided an update on 905.3 from EMC, the Districts Insurance carrier that EMC is not in favor of the additional language at the end of the policy as their official statement.

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the changes to Policy 903.1, 903.2, 903.3, 903.4, 904.1, 904.2, and 905.2 on Second Reading as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

IASB Convention, November 20-24, 2024.  SBO Swartzentruber noted that registration is now open.  He requests the Board contact him about plans for attendance.  He will register the Board that plan to attend, arrange for payment of fees, and help to determine transportation needs. The Board discussed the desire to have as many Board Members attend as possible to both increase networking opportunities with other districts and amongst Board Members.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, August 26, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.  Agenda items to include: IASB Legislative Priorities, IASB Needs Assessment, and further discussion about the E3 application that was introduced in the Hawk Highlight as well as other building initiatives, Board Policy 200.4 and comparatives to other policies already in place; Further discussion on the planning done with Tammi Drawbaugh of IASB.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday 9, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.

Student Learning

Tour of East Elementary and Middle School

The Board toured the two schools to see the status of the buildings as well as the new construction and renovations that have been completed for the new school year.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:24 p.m.

July 29, 2024

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA  52356

July 29, 2024– 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jake Snider prior to his arrival.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:30 pm).

Board members absent:  Jake Snider (arrived at 6:30 pm).

Also Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.

Pledge of Allegiance

Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Ryan Schlabaugh.  Motion carried 6-0.

Business Meeting

Consent Items

Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber notes the late resignation of Jodi Schultz, General Cook, at the High School.

Randy Billups moved to approve the following consent items.

Open Enrollment Requests

Open Enrollment In Requests total 5 students;

Open Enrolled Out Requests total 1 students;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Duncan McCain, High School Boys Head Wrestling Coach, $4,407 per season;

Contract issued to Elizabeth Harris, High School Color Guard Coach, $2,376 per annum;

Resignation of Kimberlea Troyer, Middle School General Cook, $15.24 per hour, effective August 1, 2024;

Resignation of Jodi Schultz, High School General Cook, $15.06 per hour, effective August 1, 2024;

Fundraising Requests

High School Football requests approval to raise funds through the sale of discount card for funds for volunteer coaches pay, player/coach apparel, equipment, jerseys, and supplies;

Jed Seward seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 6-0.

Student Learning

Second Reading of Attendance Policies

Superintendent Stone reviewed the need to pass these two policies on second reading before August in order to add the current language to the Student Handbooks.  These Board Policies include:

  • Policy 501.3 Compulsory Attendance
  • Policy 501.10 Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about both policies.  Discussion was quite brief.

Randy Billups moved to approve the changes to Policies 501.3, 501.10, on Second Reading as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Work Session

Board Professional Learning Provided by IASB

Tammi Drawbaugh, Board Consultant from IASB, led the Board in a Board Operations Training and Visioning session.

(Snider arrived at 6:30 p.m. during the first question of the Board Process)

Next Meeting of the Board

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 12, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Second Reading of School Board Policies, 2023 Independent Auditor Report, and Annual Banking Resolution

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:43 p.m.

 

July 8, 2024

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA  52356

July 8, 2024 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jake Snider.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, and Ryan Schlabaugh.

Board members absent:  Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.

Also Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.

Pledge of Allegiance

Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Ryan Schlabaugh.  Motion carried 5-0.

Hawk Highlight – Dr. Chris Grier – This agenda item was moved to the end of the meeting.  Dr. Grier presented on a concept for District Employees Well-Being Initiative.  The plan includes various deliverables to Staff first, followed then to Students, and Families.  The program was piloted at the Home School Education Center in the 2023-2024 School Year.  Rachel Kerns, Home School Assistance Program Director, talked about the Home School Staff’s experience during the past year with the Program.  They worked with Dr. Grier on the first Friday of every month at their staff meeting.  The impact on the staff led to changes in interactions with students.

Public Forum

No one spoke.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Jeff Swartzentruber, School Business Official, reported on status of the 2023 Audit.  It should be presented in draft form in the coming week.

Randy Billups moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of June 24, 2024 and July 1, 2024;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for Year to Date June 2024 #1 Cash Basis:

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for July 8, 2024; Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Open Enrollment In Requests total 6 students;

Open Enrolled Out Requests total 1 students;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Jacob Lampe, Middle School Behavioral Interventionist, $47,500 per annum;

Fundraising Requests – No Fundraising requests submitted;

Mary Allred seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 5-0.

Student Learning

Building Handbooks

Superintendent Stone recalled the previous meeting on June 24, 2024 where the handbooks were reviewed by the Board.  It is acknowledged that the next step is acceptance of the handbooks.  Time was provided for the Board to ask questions and have additional discussion about the handbooks. 

Denise Chittick moved to accept the Handbooks for the High School, Middle School, Elementary Schools, Home School Assistance Program, Virtual Academy, and Alternative Learning Center as presented.  Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Finance

First Reading of IASB Board Policy Primer Updates

Superintendent Stone reviewed the changes as discussed at the June 24, 2024 meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • Policy 200.4 Board Member Social Media Engagement
  • Policy 401.6 Limitations to Employment References
  • Policy 501.3 Compulsory Attendance
  • Policy 501.10 Chronic Absenteeism and Truancy
  • Policy 501.12 Pregnant Students
  • Policy 501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Receiving District
  • Policy 502.6 Weapons
  • Policy 505.2 Student Promotion-Retention-Acceleration
  • Policy 603.1 Basic Instruction Program
  • Policy 603.12 Postsecondary Education Counseling
  • Policy 607.2 Student Health Services
  • Policy 708  Care, Maintenance, and Disposal of School District Records
  • Policy 710.1 School Food Program
  • Policy 801.3 Educational Specifications for Buildings and Sites
  • Policy 803.2 Lease, Sale or Disposal of School District Buildings and Sites

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Policies in the IASB Policy Primer.  Discussion was quite brief.

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the changes to Policies 200.4, 401.6, 501.3, 501.10, 501.12, 502.6, 505.2, 603.1, 603.12, 607.2, 708, 710.1, 801.3, and 803.2 on First Reading as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

First Reading of Board Policy Chapter 700’s Non-Instructional Operations and Business Services

Superintendent Stone Board reviewed the changes as discussed at the June 24, 2024 meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  All policies were reviewed due to changes with IASB model policy language.  Chapter 700 Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • Policy 701.1 Depository of Funds
  • Policy 701.2 Transfer of Funds
  • Policy 701.3 Financial Records
  • Policy 701.4 Governmental Accounting Practices and Regulations
  • Policy 702 Cash in School Buildings
  • Policy703.1 Budget Planning
  • Policy 703.2 Spending Plan (This is removed)
  • Policy 704.1 Local – State – Federal – Miscellaneous Revenue
  • Policy 704.3 Investments
  • Policy 704.4 Gifts – Grants – Bequests
  • Policy 705.1 Purchasing – Bidding
  • Policy 705.4 Expenditures for a Public Purpose
  • Policy 706.2 Payroll Deductions
  • Policy 707.4 Audit
  • Policy 709 Insurance Program
  • Policy 710.2 Free or Reduced Cost Meals Eligibility
  • Policy 711.8 Transportation in Inclement Weather
  • Policy 713 Responsible Technology Use and Social Networking

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Chapter 700 Policies.  Discussion was quite brief. 

Denise Chittick moved to approve the changes to Policies 701.1, 701.2, 701.3, 701.4, 702, 703.1, 703.2 (Removed), 704.1, 704.3, 704.4, 705.1, 705.4, 706.2, 707.4, 709, 710.2, 711.8, and 713 on First Reading as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

First Reading of Board Policy Chapter 800’s Buildings and Sites

Superintendent Stone Board reviewed the changes as discussed at the June 24, 2024 meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  All policies were reviewed.  Chapter 800 Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • 804.4 Asbestos-Containing Material

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Chapter 800 Policies.  Discussion was quite brief.

Randy Billups moved to approve the changes to Policy 804.4 on First Reading as presented.  Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

First Reading of Board Policy Chapter 900’s School District-Community Relations

Superintendent Stone Board reviewed the changes as discussed at the June 24, 2024 meeting and drew the Board’s attention to the summary document.  All policies were reviewed.  Chapter 900 Board Policies where changes are needed include:

  • Chapter 903.1 School-Community Groups
  • Chapter 903.2 Community Resources Persons and Volunteers
  • Chapter 903.3 Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites
  • Chapter 903.4 Public Conduct on School Premises
  • Chapter 904.1 Transporting Students in Private Vehicles
  • Chapter 904.2 Advertising and Promotion
  • Chapter 905.2 Smoke-Free Environment

Time was provided for the Board to have additional discussion about the Chapter 900 Policies.  Discussion was quite brief.

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the changes to Policy 903.1, 903.2, 903.3, 903.4, 904.1, 904.2, and 905.2 on First Reading as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Tammi Drawbaugh, consultant with IASB will be providing a training even to the Board on July 29th from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.  The Board discussed topics for Drawbaugh to address with the Board.  Items mentioned include: Lane—Roles and Responsibility, Goals, Governance, and Changes to Open Meeting Laws.  The Board discussed the meaning of some of these items listed and approach.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, July 29th at 6:15 p.m. as noted in the above Board Development and Inservice agenda item.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 12, 2024, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Acceptance of the 2023 Audit, Bank Depository Resolution, and 2nd Reading of Board Policies.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 6:48 p.m.

 

July 1, 2024 SPECIAL MEETING

President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.

Board members present: Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, School Business Official/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber, Human Resource Coordinator Carmela Ulin.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Jed Seward.  Motion carried 7-0.

Superintendent Evaluation per Iowa Code 21.5 Subsection 1e.

Gabrielle Fredrick asked for a motion to go into closed session to conduct the evaluation of Superintendent Stone.

Ryan Schlabaugh moved to enter closed session per Iowa Code 21.5, 1e. 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 requests a closed session.

Mary Allred seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote:

Gabrielle Frederick       - yes                                      Mary Allred                        - yes

Jed Seward                   - yes                                     Randy Billups                     - yes

Ryan Schlabaugh         - yes                                      Jake Snider                        - yes

Denise Chittick              - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Board Entered Closed Session at 5:17 p.m.

Board Exited Closed Session at 7:27 p.m.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:27 p.m.