Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
December 8, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
President Randy Billups called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Kirah Johnson, and Jed Seward.
Board members absent: Ryan Schlabaugh 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
Adopt the Agenda
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 5-0.
Public Forum
No one spoke.
BUSINESS MEETING
Consent Items
Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of November 24, 2025;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for November 2025;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for December 8, 2025; Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 3 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 0 students;
Personnel Items
Resignation of Elizabeth Harris, High School Band Color Guard Coach, $2,422 per year, effective end of 2025-2026 School Year;
Change in FTE for Carrie Schweitzer, Middle School FCS Teacher from 0.75 FTE to 1.0 FTE, $49,611, effective January 12, 2026;
Fall Coaches recommended for the Fall of 2026
High School Football Head Coach – Daren Lambert High School Football Asst Coach – Kevin Cortum
High School Football Asst Coach – Justin Barthelman High School Football Asst Coach – Dylan Wertz
7th Grade Football Head Coach – Dylan Walther 8th Grade Football Head Coach – Dain Jeppson
High School X-Country Head Coach – Mark Hostetler High School X-Country Asst Coach – Lynette Poll
Middle School X-0Country Head Coach – Jeremy Meyers
High School Volleyball Head Coach – Sherry Evans HS Volleyball Asst Coach – Rebecca Becker
7th Grade Volleyball Head Coach – Megan Uden
8th Grade Volleyball Head Coach – Melanie Steinhart
Fundraising Requests
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds through the “Chuck a Duck” event at home basketball games in January and February of 2026 for expenses related to the Post Prom event;
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Student Learning
Reports
The Board reviewed the Administrators’ written reports to the Board. Time was allotted to ask questions and discuss the reports. It was asked that the attendance data be posted on Social Media. Additionally, the Board likes to see the things that are going well and encourages these reports.
Finance-Long Range Planning
Matching Funds Approval for FY2025-2026
Superintendent Stone and SBO Swartzentruber brought this to the Board for consideration. Per Board Policy 903.6 the Board, in August of each year the Board makes a decision to promote joint fundraising for the three major Booster Groups including: Fine Arts Boosters, Athletic Boosters, and Student Boosters. In the past several years, the matching funds have been $15,000 per group or a total maximum of $45,000. The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.
Jed Seward moved to approve matching funds of $15,000 to each of the three groups, totaling $45,000 for the 2025-2026 School Year. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Budget Guarantee Resolution for FY 2026-2027
School Business Official Swartzentruber provided the Regular Program Budget Adjustment Resolution #12082501 and recommended approval of the resolution. Due to the District’s Resident Student Count on October 1, 2025, reported as 4.48 students down from the previous October 1, 2024 Student Count, it is very likely that increased funding by the State of Iowa for schools will not meet last year’s budget funding, and this is a precautionary resolution. The resolution allows for the District to receive at least 101% of the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year Revenue. Open Enrolled In students were also down 20.50 students from the October 1, 2024 Student Count, which is the first time in quite a few years. Open Enrolled In Students offsets smooth the net trend, the District is down overall by 16.98 students served compared to the 2024 count. This year’s resolution is a necessary protection of District funding.
Denise Chittick moved to approve Resolution #12082501 Regular Program Budget Adjustment for the 2026-2027 School Year as presented. Jed Seward seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Kirah Johnson - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - absent
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - absent
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 5-0.
School Bus Specifications Set Date and Time for Public Hearing
Superintendent Stone noted the ongoing need to keep the District School Bus Fleet up to date. A request for a Public Hearing to review the bus specifications for the purchase of one diesel powered, Yellow School Buses on January 12, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. is recommended. This would be for delivery and payment in School Year 2026-2027. The bus to be replaced is an older propane-powered bus that has reached a point where repairs are increasingly more frequent. Past practice has been to buy two buses at a time. However, the request for one bus also considers the need and outlay for a potential new transportation facility.
Jed Seward moved to set a Public Hearing for purpose of reviewing the specifications of 1 diesel powered school bus on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Superintendent Stone discussed the Eocene Survey Draft that was sent to Board Members as Eocene asked for feedback by December 24th. The Board is generally positive about the outcome of the survey development.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, January 12, 2026, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: At-Risk/Dropout Plan Resolution, At-Risk/Dropout Plan Funding Resolution; New Teacher Hire Sign-On Payment; Early Resignation Incentives, Set a Public Hearing for the HSAP Flexibility Fund Transfer;
January 26, 2026 will be the next Board Work Session. Agenda: a second look at passed Work Session items that may not have been discussed in depth.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:42 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
November 24, 2025– 6:15 p.m.
President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick (retiring), Kirah Johnson (new), Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: None.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Retiring School Board Annual Meeting
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Ryan Schlabaugh. Motion carried 7-0.
Consent Items
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meeting
The minutes of November 10, 2025;
Superintendent Statement of Commitment
Subsequent to the Evaluation on November 10th, the Statement of Commitment between the Board and Superintendent Stone to be signed by Board Members and Superintendent Stone;
Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Accept the Election Results and Recognize Retiring Board Member
The Official Abstract of Votes as canvassed by the three counties on November 18, 2025, for the November 4, 2025, election was presented to the Board for acceptance. A total of 3,042 votes were cast in the election for 3 open seats. The top three candidates receiving votes are the persons to be seated in the seats. These include: Jed Seward with 683 votes, Kirah Johnson with 488 votes, Jacob Snider with 454 votes. The other candidates and write in candidates received votes ranging in totals from 424 votes to 1 vote.
Randy Billups moved to accept the election results for the November 4, 2025 from the Official Abstract of Votes dated November 18, 2025. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
The Board also expressed appreciation to retiring School Board Member Gabrielle Frederick. Frederick was presented a plaque of appreciation by Superintendent Stone and a life-time activities pass. Your service to the District and Community is very much appreciated.
Adjournment (Sine Die) The Board President adjourned “sine die” the final meeting of the 2024-2025 Board.
Frederick left the meeting.
New Board of Education – Organization of the 2025-2026 Board
Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, called the meeting to order at 6:22 p.m.
The Oath of Office was administered individually to Kirah Johnson, Jed Seward, and Jacob Snider as the newly elected School Board members.
Next, the floor was opened for discussion for the Nominations for Board President and Vice-President.
After the motion below, Seward requested that Board members have an opportunity to express interest in running to be Board President, and if interested provide a synopsis of why. Randy Billups went first and stated interest in the position of President. Jake Snider is interested in continuing as Board President, again. Seward, Johnson, Allred, Schlabaugh, and Chittick stated they are not interested in serving as President at this time.
Nominations for President of the Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 school year: Mary Allred nominated Randy Billups for President of the Board. Seconded by Ryan Schlabaugh. Motion carried 6-0 with the nominee abstaining.
Again, the Board Members stated interest in serving as Vice-President. Schlabaugh stated while he enjoyed serving as Vice-President he would not be opposed to stepping back or serving again. Allred would not decline if nominated. Snider would not decline if nominated. Johnson, Chittick, and Seward stated they are not interested in serving as Vice-President at this time.
Nominations for Vice-President of the Board of Directors for the 2025-2026 school year: Jed Seward nominated Jake Snider for Vice-President of the Board. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 5-1, with Schlabaugh voting no and with the nominee abstaining.
The Oath of Office was administered individually to Randy Billups as President and to Jake Snider as Vice-President.
Appointment of Board Secretary/Treasurer: Jake Snider nominated Jeffrey Swartzentruber, School Business Official as School Board Secretary and Treasurer. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 7-0. No oath was administered.
Opening for the New School Board
President Randy Billups called the meeting to order at 6:40 p.m.
Jed Seward moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Denise Chittick. Motion carried 7-0.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Business Meeting
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for November 24, 2025 and prepaid bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 0 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 0 students;
Personnel Items
Approval for East Elementary to hire a full time Special Education Paraprofessional to serve a new IEP student requirement.
Resignation of Dirk Rich, High School Lead Custodian, $18.76 per hour, effective January 15, 2026;
Volunteer Coaches for Winter 2025-2026 Sports Seasons:
Shannon McCain - Wrestling
Fundraising Requests
Girls Wrestling requests approval to raise funds through Snap Mobile and State wrestling t-shirts sponsorships from November 26th to December 25th so that funds are available for hotel rooms for state wrestling, equipment for training and to pay assistant coaches;
Boys Basketball requests approval to raise funds through a donation campaign drive from December 1st to December 31st so that funds will cover volunteer coaches, equipment, and players’ and coaches’ gear.
Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Business Items
Board Appointment Washington County Assessor Conference Board
School Business Official Swartzentruber reviewed the need to appoint a School Board Member to the Washington County Conference Board. As no Board Members are Johnson County residents, we are not able to appoint a representative for Johnson County. The representative for Washington County last year was Jed Seward. The Board asked Seward if he wanted to continue to for another year.
Mary Allred moved to approve Jed Seward to be the Board Representative for the Washington County Assessor Conference Board for the coming year. Jake Snider seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Board Appointment IBB Representatives for 2025-2026 School Year
Superintendent Stone reviewed the need to have 2 Board Members serve on the Interest Based Bargaining Committee for the upcoming year. The recertification election held earlier this Fall for the upcoming 3-year period was successful. Representatives for the past 2 years have been Denise Chittick and Mary Allred. Stone would recommend staying with Chittick and Allred for at least one more year to maintain consistency if they are willing to continue. There was discussion amongst Board members with Kirah Johnson expressing interest in being a representative.
Denise Chittick moved to approve Mary Allred and Kirah Johnson as Board representatives to IBB for the 2025-2026 School Year. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
SBRC Application Resolution Open Enrolled Out Not on Prior Year’s Head Count
SBO Swartzentruber presented the additional allowable growth resolution for Open Enrollment Out. This is an annual resolution to request spending authority from the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC). The new element this year is that instead of one resolution it is now two and could be three. This amount is a result of the Certified Enrollment data from the October 1, 2025, count date. Specific language in Resolution 11242501 is:
The District’s administration is authorized to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $90,474.00 for Open Enrollment Out students who were not included in the District’s previous year certified head count.
Jed Seward moved to approve Resolution 11242501 to allow the administration to request the modified supplemental amount of $90,474.00 on Open Enrollment Out for the 2025-2026 School Year. Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Kirah Johnson - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
SBRC Application Resolution English Language Learners Beyond Five Years
SBO Swartzentruber presented the additional allowable growth resolution for English Language Learners Beyond Five Years. This is an annual resolution to request spending authority from the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC). The new element this year is that instead of one resolution it is now two and could be three. This is the second resolution. This amount is a result of the English Language Learner program students who have exceeded five years of weighting per the October 1, 2025, count date. Specific language in Resolution 11242502 is:
The District’s administration is authorized to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $7,109.00 related to the English Language Learners Program for students who have exceeded five years of weighting that are included in the Fall 2025 certified head count.
Denise Chittick moved to approve Resolution 11242502 to allow the administration to request the modified supplemental amount of $7,901.00 on for the English Language Learners Program students who have exceeded five years of weighting prior to the 2025-2026 School Year. Jed Seward seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Kirah Johnson - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Ecocene Environmental Group and Survey Work
Ben Curtis from Ecocene led the Board through a series of questions to determine scope of the staff surveys. The Board provided input and discussed the types of groups, subgroups and questions to be asked as well the steps to be taken after the surveys are compiled. Ecocene will work on drafts of the first survey.
New Board of Education Orientation
Superintendent Stone discussed some of the elements of orientation and suggested that a meeting for Johnson and potentially others to discuss the District’s finances. Stone asked Tammi Drawbaugh at IASB if there is a template for orientation. She will work to provide a resource to him. He covered a number of items of current status of various initiatives as a review for all Board members.
Report About the IASB Convention by Board Members
Billups asked if anyone wanted to share impressions of the Conference of November 19th to 21st. The Board shared impressions on various breakout sessions. The impressions of the day(s) was/were extremely positive. It was also the first time that all 7 Board members were able to attend at least the main day of November 20th.
HSAP Flexibility Fund Transfer
SBO Swartzentruber discussed the potential need to do a Flexibility Transfer from the Home School Assistance Program balance into the Flexibility Fund. The balance at June 30, 2025, was $180.892.33. Initial recommendation would be to consider a transfer of $175,000. Swartzentruber reminded the Board that the District holds just over $275,000 in the fund. The current balance is the start for a planned addition at the Home School Education Center. Of the transfer made in this year, it is estimated that approximately $100,000 or more could be added to the balance from last year.
CLOSED SESSION – The Board will enter into a closed session as provided in section 21.5(l)(i) of the open meetings law to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the school district would have to pay or lower the price the board would receive for that property.
Jed Seward moved to go into Closed Session reading the above language as to the reason. Mary Allred seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Kirah Johnson - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
The Board went into Closed Session at 7:38 p.m.
The Board returned to Open Session at 7:59 p.m.
Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Budget Guarantee Resolution, At-Risk/Drop Out Prevention Plan Approval, At-Risk/Drop Out Prevention MSA Resolution,
Special Board Meeting: Open Meetings Training will be on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. and is provided by IASB per current law. Board Members should receive a Zoom invitation to log in about a week before the event.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
November 10, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
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: None.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Adopt the Agenda
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 7-0.
Hawk Highlights
FFA National Convention – Elsa Schmidt and 5 FFA students shared about their recent trip to the 98th Annual FFA National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana from October 29th to November 1st. There were many varied learning and visiting opportunities the students. The Board thanked the students for their presentation.
Snakenberg Sociology Class Project – Schuyler Snakenberg and 3 students from his Sociology class shared about their recent project to recognize past and current staff. He issued a challenge to his class of 10 students to do something positive in the community. The students made the decision to recognize staff and people who have served in the District. Board members signed the various canvasses based upon decades served. The canvases will be displayed in the West-end concession area. The Board thanked the group for this project.
Public Forum
No one spoke.
BUSINESS MEETING
Consent Items
Randy Billups moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of October 13, 2025, and October 27, 2025;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for October 2025;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for November 10, 2025; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 3 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 0 students;
Personnel Items
Contracts issued to Katherine Sieren, Special Olympics Coach for Fall and Spring seasons, $766 per season for $1,532 per annum;
Fundraising Requests – None Presented for Approval
Mary Allred seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Reports
The Board reviewed the Administrators’ written reports to the Board. Time was allotted to ask questions and discuss the reports. No questions were asked. Appreciation for the reports was expressed.
Finance-Long Range Planning
Public Hearing for Proposed Plans and Specifications for Mid-Prairie West Elementary Addition and Improvements at 6:25pm
Board President Snider opened the public hearing for the Mid-Prairie West Elementary Plans and Specifications at 6:25 p.m. He asked if anyone was present to speak on the subject. No one spoke. President Snider closed the Public Hearing at 6:26 p.m.
West Elementary Construction Specification Recommendation and Construction Bid
Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson and Company (CANCO) presented the Bid Specifications and Bid Results from the bid opening that took place on October 23, 2025. Additionally, Morrow discussed the overall budget for the 2024 General Obligation Bond as the construction at West Elementary is the final project for the bond issue. With the final project now bid, the overall project is estimated to be $21,291 over the estimated dollars to spend and clearly within the expectations of the bond process. This overage takes into consideration bond proceeds, and interest earnings on the bond proceeds held during the life of the bond projects. It is conservative in approach with construction contingencies included and estimated interest earned. The total estimated project cost for West Elementary is $2,075,000 of which $1,349,172 is for the construction costs only for the addition of 2 classrooms and ADA compliant restrooms. Playground equipment replacement is also included in the $2,075,000, at a total amount of $277,000.
Presentation Highlights for West Elementary included a General Construction bid from SG Construction Company for the project of $1,349,172. SG Construction is the apparent lower bidder at the $1.35 million amount. An alternate bid package add-on for playground resurfacing of $110,418 is not recommended and not included in the SG Construction base bid. It is recommended the Board accept the SG Construction Company bid of $1,349,172 after first accepting the Plans and Specifications for the West Elementary Classroom addition.
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the plans and specifications on the Mid-Prairie West Elementary Classroom construction project as presented. Denise Chittick the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the bid from SG Construction Company as presented for approval to complete the project totaling $1,349,172 for the Mid-Prairie West Elementary Classroom Addition. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Grant Wood Director for District 2 Election Ballot Approval
School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber shared that the Grant Wood AEA Board Election timeline is underway. A ballot was sent to President Snider’s attention at Central Office with the ballot to be executed no later than November 29, 2025. Carol Montz is the only candidate running. The District has a 9.9% share of the vote for District 2. It is recommended that the Board approve Carol Montz as the candidate. If approved the ballot will be cast on behalf of the District by Board President, Jake Snider and dated today.
Randy Billups moved to approve Carol Montz as District 2 Director on the Board of Grant Wood Area Education Agency for the next Board term. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
The Board was reminded of the upcoming IASB Convention on November 19 to 21, 2025. Travel Plans for board members were finalized.
Ribbon Cutting at West Elementary Playground and set a date and time for Board and Students. Tentatively planned for Friday, 11/14/2025 in the morning. The time will be confirmed.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. Agenda items to include: Close out the current Board “Sine Die”; Organizational Meeting for the new School Board; Swearing in New Board Members; and Discussion topics that are currently developing.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, December 8, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.
The required Open Meetings Training for the Board on December 4th at 5:30 p.m. Brian will coordinate this with the Board.
Annual Superintendent Evaluation and Discussion per Iowa Code 21.5 Subsection 1e.
President Snider asked for a motion to go into closed session to conduct the evaluation of Superintendent Stone.
Gabrielle Frederick 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.
Jed Seward seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Board Entered Closed Session at 7:14 p.m.
Board Exited Closed Session at 8:03 p.m.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
October 27, 2025– 6:15 p.m.
Vice President Ryan Schlabaugh called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jake Snider.
Board members present: Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Mary Allred and Gabrielle Frederick.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber; MPHS Principal Chuck Banks; MPMS Principal Tim Bartels; West Elementary Principal Robin Foster; East Elementary Principal, Kristan Hunter; Special Education Director, Doug Stafford; and Curriculum Coordinator, Liza Fontaine
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Randy Billups moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 5-0.
Chair was turned over to President Snider as he arrived as the above motion was passed at 6:17 p.m.
Business Meeting
Consent Items
Jed Seward moved to approve the following consent items.
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for October 27, 2025 and prepaid bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 0 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 0 students;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Kristen Thomas, High School Special Education Teacher, $50,000 per annum;
Work Agreement Issued to Esther Marten, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement Issued to Tawnya Reid, 0.5 FTE East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Fundraising Requests – No Requests Submitted
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Business Item – Finance – No agenda Items
Work Session
State Report Card and Additional Data/Assessments Information - Administration
Superintendent Stone shared the State Report Card Data with the Board and then facilitated a discussion with the Board about data, and data assessment tools. Administrators were present for this work session item. Elementary Principals discussed the Math curriculum and results, additionally discussed the critical thinking elements that have been added to math. They also discussed the reading curriculum and results as the new CKLA curriculum is being implemented with reading, writing, comprehension skills as key components. The Board asked questions about how to get to the next level from “acceptable” in 2024, to “commendable” in 2025, to the next designation of “high performing”.
Middle School highlights in acceptable categories in both years. However, in year two the level is actually “commendable”, though Middle School is year 2 as a targeted school. Bartels discussed areas of growth and mantras of “unacceptable to be acceptable” and “controlling the things we can control”. Bartels gave credit to the elementary staff for their preparations completed as the students come to the Middle School. Overall, Middle School is above the state average there is one subgroup that is pushing the Middle School into the “school in need of improvement” category.
High School has similar issues to the Middle School. In 2024 classified as “needs improvement”. In 2025 the classification improved to “acceptable”. The scores improved based upon great things that happened in classrooms in the past school year. The High School team is not satisfied with the current classifications. Additional strategies are being implemented across classrooms and subjects. The Board asked questions about “in need of assistance” and what outcomes happen in year 3 should improvement stall.
Special Education emphasis was discussed and the need to continue to elevate curriculum expectations for the students as well as continued immediate reporting implementation.
Superintendent Stone asked Liza Fontaine to talk about both ISASP standardized annual testing and FastBridge is on-going testing with results measured 3 times per year. ISASP is for the State of Iowa while FastBridge is a national testing. The latter meets the student needs where the student is at in their learning and understanding. Fontaine explained the different emphasis that the two tests bring to the students of the District.
Eocene Environmental Group and Survey Work
This agenda item was tabled as 2 Board Members are absent.
Superintendent Evaluation with Board Policy 302.5
Vice President Schlabaugh discussed the evaluation timeline and the tool that was to be sent after the Board Meeting. The assessment tool should be returned by Wednesday, November 5th at 5pm to Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber. The evaluation will take place on Monday, November 10, 2025 most likely in closed session at the end of the business meeting.
Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Public Hearing on West Elementary construction project, review of bids, Superintendent evaluation, and Grant Wood Director of District 2 ballot approval.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:52 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
October 13, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
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: None.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Adopt the Agenda
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Ryan Schlabaugh. Motion carried 7-0.
Hawk Highlight – Student Build – Lucas Troyer shared that there are 11 students participating this Fall at the residence in Kalona. He introduced the students present at the meeting who are involved in the Student Build project in Kalona during the Summer of 2025 and into the Fall of 2025. Troyer thanked both Jake Snider and Ryan Schlabaugh for the opportunity. The group shared about the process and experience. The students expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work together, to experience work ethic, and for life skills development.
Scoreboard for Football and Track – This item is tabled to a future date.
Public Forum
No one spoke.
BUSINESS MEETING
Consent Items
Randy Billups moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of September 9, 2025 and September 22, 2025;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for September 2025;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for October 13, 2025; and Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests – None are presented for approval
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Megan Uden, 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach, $2,234 per annum;
Contract issued to Annika Poll, Middle School Assistant Cross Country Coach, $1,660 per season;
Resignation of Caryn Short, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour, effective October 10, 2025;
Volunteer Coaches for Winter Sports 2025-2026
Rylee Vercande – Girls Wrestling Vinnie Bowlin – Boys Wrestling
Ben Meader – Boys Wrestling Brent Foster – Boys Wrestling
Zeb Evans – Boys Wrestling Tim O’Toole – Boys Basketball
Ryan Cortum – Boys Basketball
Fundraising Requests
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds through Drive Through Meal at both Middle School and High School on November 15th for the Post Prom event in the Spring of 2026;
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds through Donation Request Letters sent from October 6th to February 21st for the Post Prom event in the Spring of 2026;
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Student Learning
Reports
The Board reviewed the Administrators’ written reports to the Board. Time was allotted to ask questions and discuss the reports. No questions were asked. Board expressed appreciation for the report on the Cell Phone Policy implementation.
Finance-Long Range Planning
Resolution 10132501 Additional Allowable Growth Resolution for Limited English Proficiency Funds
School Business Official Swartzentruber presented the Limited English Proficiency Funds Additional Allowable Growth Resolution #10132501 as required by law. This resolution recognizes the State funding for the District’s Limited English proficiency program is insufficient. The funding requirements are a calculation based upon student served. In the District’s case, the student count is not high enough to pay the compensation and expenses for a full-time teacher, though one is required. Once the District exceeds the funds allocated, the excess costs are tracked in order to receive additional spending authority. The resolution requests $53,914.73 additional spending authority.
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve Resolution #10132501 for additional spending authority of $53,914.73. Jed Seward seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Set a Public Hearing for Proposed Plans and Specification for Mid-Prairie West Elementary Addition and Improvements for November 10, 2025 at 6:25 p.m.
SBO Swartzentruber provided an update of the timeline for the West Elementary Addition and improvements. The Pre-bid Meeting took place at Central Office on October 7th with CANCO leading the meeting. Bids are to be collected on the various bid packages for the Bid Opening Meeting set for Thursday, October 23rd. Subsequent to the October 23rd meeting CANCO and OPN will review the bids and bring a recommendation to the Board. The Public Hearing is set to be just before the Bid discussion and evaluation for acceptance.
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the setting of a Public Hearing for the Proposed Plans and Specifications for the West Elementary Addition for Monday, November 10, 2025 at 6:25 p.m. at the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room in Wellman, Iowa. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Superintendent Stone and SBO Swartzentruber noted the upcoming IASB Convention on November 19-21, 2025. Board Members need to let Swartzentruber know which days they plan to attend and transportation as well as lodging.
Open Meetings training required by State Legislature – IASB next ones are December 4 and 18, 2025, and January 7, 2026, for New Board Members within 90 days of taking office. Existing Board Members should attend as well? Consideration being given to compliance.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, October 27, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. Agenda items to include: Discussion about Board Committees; ISASP State Report Cards; and possibly Survey Work.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, November 10, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:53 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
September 22, 2025– 6:15 p.m.
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: None.
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 7-0.
Business Meeting
Consent Items
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve the following consent items.
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for September 22, 2025, and prepaid bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 1 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 0 students;
Personnel Items
Approve a 0.5 FTE Position for a Paraprofessional at East Elementary for IEP requirements;
Resignation of Lori Schultz, High School General Cook, $16.22 per hour, effective September 11, 2025;
Resignation of Katy Debler, East Elementary Media Secretary, $17.75 per hour, effective October 10,2025;
Resignation of Ron Swartzendruber, MS Girls Basketball Coach, $3,390 per annum, effective September 18, 2025;
Volunteer Coach – Fall – Brian Hervey – HS Football
Fundraising Requests
FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through a Pampered Chef on-line event from October 15th to November 15th for replacement of essential kitchen equipment for the FCS Lab;
Jed Seward seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Business Item
Special Education Deficit Spending Authority Resolution – Resolution 0922251
SBO Swartzentruber reviewed the SBRC Resolution for Additional Allowable Growth as a result of the Special Education Spending Deficit for the recently completed fiscal year ending on June 30, 2025. The reported deficit was $382,863.09 for last year as compared to $81,494.48 for the previous year. The request is rounded up to $385,000 to allow for any upward adjustment that might be found during the Department of Education’s year-end review.
Denise Chittick moved to approve Resolution 0922251 to authorize the Superintendent to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for additional allowable growth of up to $385,000 to cover the deficit in Special Education funding from the year ending June 30, 2025. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - yes
Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Fund for Academic Excellence Information – Brenna Goode
Superintendent Stone introduced Breen Goode, Chair of the Committee for Fund for Academic Excellence. She provided a report of the projects funded by the committee through the application process to each Building. Teachers apply for funds through a grant application process that is awarded in late October of each year. The fund has provided $26,000 in grants to Mid-Prairie Teachers since the 2020-2021 School Year—5 year. This year’s available funds are $6,000.
Survey Information – Ben Curtis from Eocene Environmental Group
Vice President Schlabaugh introduced Ben Curtis from Eocene Environment Group to discuss approaches to preparing and administering staff surveys. The desire is to have independent, third-party data collection from staff. Eocene does a broad range of consulting mostly for municipalities although they are comfortable operating in this type of setting. Schlabaugh asked if there are further questions about the process. The Board discussed goals to strengthen the “caring learning environment” component of the mission statement and recognize the staff as an integral part of the statement. Then, as a Board what can the Board do to help strengthen the environment with the data that comes from the staff at all levels of the District, although it is recognized that the hard work is not done by the Board. The Board is in agreement and asked about viewing some example surveys. Informal next steps will be to receive a proposal from Eocene and discuss the focus areas of the first surveys.
PL Agendas
Superintendent Stone shared a document that is used by the District that links to a document for each building and grade level. These documents guide the Friday Early-Out Professional Learning of each group as they establish goals and collaborate as teams. This is an intentional work in process system and is recognized as in its second week of early outs. The system will be refined further throughout the year.
FAC Update
Superintendent Stone provided an update from the Facilities Committee that met on Wednesday, September 17th. He walked through an overview of the Power Point used that showed progress on the Activity/Wrestling Center, plans for the West Elementary addition and improvements, and the initial work that has been done on the Auditorium study. The Board expressed appreciation for the work performed.
State Report Card
Superintendent Stone shared the results of the State Report Card for the District that was released on Thursday, September 18th. All schools moved up to acceptable and commendable per building. He shared data on Literacy and Math proficiencies. The District is definitely moving in the right direction. There will be more analysis in the future.
Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, October 13, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Superintendent Evaluation Planning, Further discussion on the PLs and State Report Card, though the latter may be at a future Work Session.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:18 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
September 8, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Randy Billups and Denise Chittick.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Adopt the Agenda
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 5-0.
Hawk Highlight – Student Built Home – Ryan Schlabaugh in his role as City of Kalona Administrator provided an update on the partnership between the City and the District for this Summer activity that has stretched into the first part of the School Year. Students are hands on learning a trade with a shelter at the City Park and a two-unit housing rehabilitation in Kalona. This year it is solely Mid-Prairie Students. Jake Snider has served as a guide/instructor for the students especially through the Summer, and now into the Fall through the City of Kalona. Snider expressed one goal: to involved the students more closely with subcontractors in the coming years. Snider was very complimentary of Ryan and the City of Kalona and is very excited for the future of the program. Thanks, is also expressed to Melissa Rediger, Chuck Banks, and Lucas Troyer for their involvement in the program within the High School.
Public Forum
A gentleman discussed concerns about the Curriculum of the District as it relates to Civics learning. He continues to challenge the Board to bring the Constitution and Civics lessons to the students of the District as nationally and locally a learning gap is identifiable.
BUSINESS MEETING
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of August 11, 2025, August 14, 2025, and August 25, 2025;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for August 2025 and Year End June 2025 Preaudit Final;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for September 8, 2025; Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 3 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 1 student;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Daniel Hershberger, Middle School Assistant Football Coach (+20), $2,265.96 per annum,
Contract issued to Derek Kalm, Middle School Assistant Volleyball Coach (+20), $2,218.09 per season,
Work Agreement issued to Jane Blieu, High School Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Angie Lilley, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Hannah Theisen, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Liana Wade, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Makayla Garrelts, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Caryn Short, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Fundraising Requests
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds by selling Bingo Cards to play Volleyball Bingo for home games of September 23rd, September 25th, and October 7th, for funding Post Prom activities in 2026.
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds by selling Bingo Cards to play Football Bingo for homecoming game on September 12th, for funding Post Prom activities in 2026.
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds by student activity entitled Penny Wars the week before the first Renaissance assembly, for funding Post Prom activities in 2026.
Post Prom requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Sugar Bottom Cookes from October 1st to October 27th, for funding Post Prom activities in 2026.
Home School Assistance Program requests approval to raise funds by selling Mums from September 10th to September 30th to support outdoor improvements to the school grounds, sustainability for future mums’ sales and other outside of Home School budget activities.
High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through their annual can drive with the Can Shed on September 20th for the baseball program, equipment and field maintenance, and coach and player apparel;
FFA requests approval to raise funds with a Fruit, Meat, Cheese, and Popcorn sales fundraiser from Mid-October to End of October for FFA Activities throughout the school year;
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 4-0 with Schlabaugh abstaining.
Student Learning
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 implementation of the Cell Phone Policy in the first two weeks of school. Stone reported that the Cell Phone policy seems to be going well at the High School and Middle School based on reports of and his observations of student interactions during the day, especially at passing and lunch periods.
Madrigal Choir Out of State Travel
Collette McClellen has requested permission to take the Madrigal Choir to Augustana College Chamber Choir Festival in Rock Island, Illinois on October 12 and 13, 2025 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 12-13, 2025 to participate in the Augustana College Chamber Choir Festival event. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Level 1 Investigators
Superintendent Stone shared that the District needs to appoint Level 1 Investigators per Board Policy 402.3. With changes in Staff, it is appropriate to appoint Level 1 Investigators at this time. Principals and Administrators recommended for appointment as Level 1 Investigators are: Kristan Hunter, Doug Stafford, Rachel Kerns, Robin Foster, Chuck Banks, Tim Bartels, and Frank Slabaugh with Superintendent Stone appointed as the First Alternate to the Level 1 Investigators. Stone asked for questions from the Board.
Jed Seward moved to approve the above listed administrators as Level 1 Investigators as recommended. Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Finance-Long Range Planning
2025 2026 Student Built Home Stipend Request
SBO Swartzentruber along with Kalona City Manager Ryan Schlabaugh discussed the need for additional monies to support the oversight of the student-built project initiative in Kalona. This collaborative project between the City of Kalona and the District is going well. The estimated hours over and above class time by Teacher/Supervisor Lucas Troyer leads to the request for an additional $2,500 stipend. The City of Kalona will reimburse the District for this additional cost of wages, taxes and benefits of $2,950. The Board asked questions for clarification on time spent and reimbursement by the City.
Jed Seward moved to approve the additional total outlay of $2,950 as presented with the understanding that the City of Kalona will reimburse the District for the Cost. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 4-0, Schlabaugh abstained.
Fiscal Year 2025 Annual Treasurer’s Report
SBO Swartzentruber presented the Fiscal Year 2025 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 15, 2025, due date. Net Operating Fund Balance increased by $528,000 ($323,400 in Unassigned Fund Balance), compared to a $956,000 increase (794,300 Unassigned Fund Balance) for the previous fiscal year. The Nutrition Fund decreased by $100,700 as a result of less Federal funds made available for Nutrition and the wear off of COVID Funding for Nutrition. The District has raised lunch prices for the new School Year by 10 cents to slow the decline down though it is a balancing act between students and families choosing hot lunch in the face of rising prices. The cash position in the fund has a balance of $278,760. Swartzentruber discussed the concerns of rising food prices along with staffing in the mid and long term.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Treasurers Report as presented. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
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 two year’s State convention. Ryan Schlabaugh was asked if he wished to step into this role for the upcoming state convention on November 19-21, 2025.
Mary Allred moved to appoint Ryan Schlabaugh as delegate to the IASB Convention for November 2025. Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Board Development and Inservice Activities – Nothing was discussed.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The due date for Board Candidate Filing is Thursday, September 18th at 5pm.
Homecoming Parade is Wednesday, September 10, 2025. The Board will ride on a float. Arrangements and meet times were discussed for coordination purposes.
The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. Agenda items to include: Special Education Deficit Spending Authority Resolution; Staff Surveys Discussion, Possible Fund for Academic Excellence presentation, Discussion of the Professional Learning Agenda Consistency, Facilities Committee Update.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:05p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
August 25, 2025– 6:15 p.m.
President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Randy Billups, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Mary Allred and Denise Chittick.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 5-0.
Business Meeting
Consent Items
Jed Seward moved to approve the following consent items.
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for August 25, 2025, and prepaid bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 6 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 2 students;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Marcelena Billups, West Elementary Preschool Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Chloe Kruse, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Noah Marlin, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Kali Miller, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Libby Peiffer, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.50 per hour;
Resignation of Jeremiah Lassy, High School Paraprofessional, $15.59 per hour, effective August 13, 2025;
Fundraising Requests – Nothing submitted
Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Business Item - Finance
East Elementary Additional Special Education Paraprofessionals Proposal
Superintendent Stone directed the Board to the Proposal by Kristan Hunter, Principal at East Elementary and Doug Stafford, Special Education Director for the need for one Special Education Paraprofessional positions at East Elementary. These needs are determined by the Individual Education Plans for students in the building.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve one Special Education Paraprofessionals position as presented for East Elementary. Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion. Motion carried 5-0.
Work Session
IASB Feedback and Activities
Superintendent Stone worked through the material provided as a result of the August 14, 2025, Board Development session with Tammi Drawbaugh using her report to Snider and Stone after the session. The Board discussed the next steps that might be taken to discuss the Boards goals and areas of focus. Discussed the need to be intentional with this at meetings, though the exact form is not settled, whether it is at the end or the beginning of the agenda—what was a positive since the previous meeting, or “what did we tackle at the end of the meeting.” The Board discussed 2 strengths to focus on and an area to build on as part of the previous sentence. Also, discussion of other activities and time the Board may be able to take part of within the buildings during the school day.
“Whose Job is It”- Possible Self-Check Idea
Superintendent Stone worked through the document provided by Drawbaugh in the August 14, 2025, Board Development session. Stone suggested this document could be a self-check exercise. It was suggested that this might be a quarterly activity that reviews Board accomplishments for the previous quarter within a Work Session.
Survey from Board to Staff
Superintendent Stone asked the Board about next steps and details for surveys conducted by an outside firm to go to all staff for collection of data from staff on elements of job satisfaction. An independent third party takes the detail responses away from the Board and Superintendent for compilation. The surveys spread over the year, maybe 2 or 3 different surveys, allow for trends to be developed and studied within a year or over a span of years. Schlabaugh will approach a few firms. Stone will talk with IASB staff, also.
Tour of New MP Activity Center
The Board toured the construction in process Activity Center behind the High School to see the current status.
Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 8, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:11 p.m. at the construction site.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
August 14, 2025 – 5:30 p.m.
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, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber, District Executive Leadership Team Members: Chuck Banks, Tim Bartels, Robin Foster, Kristan Hunter, Rachel Kerns, and Doug Stafford
Pledge of Allegiance
Mission Statement – Vice President Schlabaugh read the mission statement
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 7-0.
Work Session
Board and Administrators Professional Learning provided by IASB Tammi Drawbaugh
Tammi Drawbaugh from IASB led the Board and Administrators through a professional development session. The focus was on leadership and working collaboratively for the students and the District.
Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:46 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
August 11, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
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: None.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Adopt the Agenda
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 7-0.
Public Forum
No one spoke.
BUSINESS MEETING
Consent Items
Jed Seward moved to approve the following consent items. A question was raised about the after the season evaluation process and surveys for coaches. It was asked that this be added to a future work session.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of July 7, 2025, July 14, 2025, and July 28, 2025;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for July 2025 and Year to Date June, 2025 second iteration;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for August 11, 2025; Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 4 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 1students;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Grace Beatty, High School General Cook, $15.49 per hour;
Contract issued to Lexi Edmundson, West Elementary TLC Assistant Coach, $2,000 per annum;
Resignation of Liza Fontaine, Middle School TLC Assistant Coach, $2,000 per annum, effective August 4, 2025;
Resignation of Grace Andreesen, West Elementary TLC Assistant Coach, $2,000 per annum, effective August 4, 2025;
Resignation of Tanya Kennedy, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $16.29 per hour, effective August 6, 2025;
Resignation of Liza Fontaine, 0.5 FTE Transportation Mechanic, $22,514.80 per annum, effective August 4, 2025;
Summer Coaches Continuing for 2025-2026
HS Baseball Head Coach – Kyle Mullet
HS Baseball Assistant Coach – Brad Tornow
HS Softball Head Coach – Danielle Williams
MS Softball Head Coach – Teri Taylor
Fall Volunteer Coaches
Aaron Coghlan – Football Ryan Cortum -- Football
Derek Yoder – Football Caleb Potts – Football
Zeb Evans – Volleyball Anna Hostetler – Cross Country
Annika Poll – MS Cross Country
Fundraising Requests – There are not fundraising request presented.
Out of State Travel – Approval to travel to Indianapolis, Indiana for the National FFA Convention held on October 29, 2025 through November 1, 2025;
Insured Booster Groups for 2025-2026 – Approval of 8 Booster Groups and Clubs including Goldan Hawks Wrestling Club, Mid-Prairie Athletic Boosters, Mid-Prairie Alumni and Friends Association, Mid-Prairie Community School District Foundation, Mid-Prairie Fine Arts Boosters, Mid-Prairie Post-Prom Committee, and MP Archery Club for insurance coverage under the District Policy for a $250 annual fee to the District.
Denise Chittick seconded the consent items. Motion carried 7-0.
Finance-Long Range Planning
Bank Depository Resolution for the 2025-2026 School Year
School Business Official Swartzentruber presented the resolution for the 2025 2026 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 with changes at Hills Bank and Federation Bank, respectively.
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 2,000,000 2,000,000
Hills Bank Hills 25,000,000 20,000,000
Federation Bank Wellman 5,000,000 3,000,000
CBI Bank & Trust Kalona 6,000,000 6,000,000
Miles Capital Mgmnt Des Moines 2,000,000 2,000,000
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve 08112501 as presented reading from the resolution. Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the motion.
Roll Call Vote: Gabrielle Frederick - yes Mary Allred - yes
Jed Seward - yes Ryan Schlabaugh - yes
Randy Billups - yes Jake Snider - yes
Denise Chittick - abstain
Motion carried 6-0. Chittick abstained.
Matching Funds Policy 903.6 Amount for the 2025-2026 School Year
Superintendent Stone and SBO Swartzentruber reviewed the policy. The provision is that the Board needs to select an amount to be offered as matching funds to the three main booster groups, which are: Fine Arts Boosters, Athletic Boosters, and Student Boosters. These funds will be matched with other funds raised by the groups for specific projects as named in the matching fund application. The amounts used over the past number of years is at total of $45,000 with each group having access for the year to one-third of the amount. Groups are also able to agree to share amounts or portions of their allotment with the other two groups upon mutual agreement. It is recommended that the matching fund amount(s) stay the same as previous years for the 2025-2026 School Year. The Board asked questions for clarification.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the matching fund grant amount for the 2025-2026 School Year of $45,000 to be shared in equal thirds by the 3 booster groups. Mary Allred seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
Second Reading of Board Policy Changes for Chapter 500’s Students
Superintendent Stone and Board President Snider noted that the Board had passed the changes to Policy Chapter 500 on First Reading at the July 14, 2025 Meeting. The Policies that passed on First Reading with changes are:
Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve on Second Reading Policy 502.7, 503.1, 503.5, 503.7, 506.1, 507.2, and 507.10 as presented and reviewed. Jed Seward seconded the motion. Motion carried 7-0.
IASB Legislative Platform Discussion for 2026 Iowa Legislative Session
Superintendent Stone and Business Manager Swartzentruber drew the Board’s attention to the IASB Legislative Priorities document for the 2025-2026 Legislative Year, especially starting with page 13 (page 1 for 2025 Legislative Resolutions). 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 2024-2025 Legislative Session the Board chose the priorities listed below:
The Board reviewed the 2025 document to identify four to five priorities for the upcoming legislative session. The Board included the following as focus items to IASB:
Board Development and Inservice Activities
SBO Swartzentruber noted the upcoming IASB Convention for November 19-21, 2025 with the convention day being November 20th. November 19th is preconvention workshops and delegate session, while November 21st is the post-convention day normally set aside for Board President training and other potential meetings. Swartzentruber asked the group to consider their attendance and to let him know preferences in the coming weeks as registration is now open. Stone noted the value of the networking opportunities.
Swartzentruber noted the upcoming School Board Elections. The due date for paperwork to be filed with him is 5pm on Thursday, September 18, 2025. The Board briefly discussed the election process and candidate encouragement.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
A Special Work Session and Board Development with IASB on August 14, 2025, at 5:30pm in the Community Room.
The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, August 25, 2025, at 6:15 p.m.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 7, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
July 28, 2025– 6:15 p.m.
President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.
Board members present: Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Ryan Schlabaugh, and Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Gabrielle Frederick and Jed Seward.
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber, and Activities Director Pete Cavanagh.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement by Vice-President
Randy Billups moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Mary Allred. Motion carried 5-0.
Business Meeting
Consent Items
Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 0 students;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 4 students;
Personnel Items
Work Agreement issued to Lori Wixom, Middle School General Cook, $15.49 per hour;
Work Agreement issued to Allee Gent, Middle School General Cook, $15.49 per hour;
Resignation of Aaron Coghlan, 8th Grade Boys Track Coach, $2,820 per Annum, effective 7/15/2025;
Resignation of Kim Boller, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $15.60 per hour, effective end of 2024-2025 contract;
Resignation of Crystal Adair, High School General Cook, $15.28 per hour, effective end of 2024-2025 contract;
Fundraising Requests
Athletic Boosters request approval to raise funds through raffle ticket sales with a golf cart prize from August 2025 through October of 2025 for the boosters to provide additional financial support to athletes;
Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the consent items. Motion carried 5-0.
Work Session
MPCSD Strength and Conditioning Update
Activities Director, Pete Cavanagh, shared a document with the Board about the current program versus the proposed changes to the Strength and Conditioning Program. This is part of a continuing discussion. As the current contract with Performance Health and Fitness, LLC expires on July 31, 2025, the document is to serve as the roadmap for the upcoming year as well as an evaluation of additional changes that might be reviewed over the next year. The new contract document has not yet been presented although the conversations and developments leading up to the document are generally in place. The Board asked questions of Cavanagh and Stone and discussed the concepts in the document as well as the direction under the Strength and Conditioning umbrella at Mid-Prairie. The Board asked for Cavanagh to come back to the Board a few times during the coming School Year to report on progress and what is working and what is not working.
Business Session
MPCSD Strength and Conditioning Contract
Although there should not be substantive changes to the contract document, the District needs to request the contract from Performance Health and Fitness, LLC for the 2025-2026 School Year.
Ryan Schlabaugh moved to approve moving forward with a contract with Performance Health and Fitness, LLC for the 2025-2026 School Year bearing the concepts presented in principle and ask the Activities Director to report back to the Board throughout the year. Randy Billups seconded the motion. Motion carried 4-1 with Snider voting no.
Next Meeting and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Review list of Public Depositors and set deposit limits; Board Policy 903.6 Matching Funds Amounts; Insured Booster Groups List Approval.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
July 14, 2025 – 6:15 p.m.
Vice President Ryan Schlabaugh called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jake Snider.
Board members present: Randy Billups, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick (arrived at 6:18 p.m.), Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:18 p.m.).
Board members absent: Mary Allred, Gabrielle Frederick (arrived at 6:18 p.m.), and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:18 p.m.).
Also Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Board Secretary/School Business Official Jeff Swartzentruber.
Pledge of Allegiance
Read the School Mission Statement
Adopt the Agenda
Denise Chittick moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Jed Seward. Motion carried 4-0.
Hawk Highlight – Custodian Update on Buildings – Mike Ferguson, Lead Custodian for West Elementary, represented the custodians to provide a Summer update of the happenings and preparations for the upcoming School Year. He expressed appreciation for the custodial team and the overall helpfulness amongst the team. Superintendent Stone also provided updates as given to him by the other Lead Custodians. The Board expressed appreciation for the efforts of the custodial team.
Gabrielle Frederick and Jake Snider arrived at 6:18 p.m. during this agenda item.
Public Forum
Bud Juilfs, Director of Iowa Schools Buildings and Grounds Association, shared a packet with the Board to promote the organization for the Custodians in the District. He encourages the District to have the Custodians involved in the meetings for building connections, networking opportunities, and taking advantage of learning opportunities. There are three meetings a year, with the next one starting on 7/16 to 7/17. He also noted the asbestos recertification opportunities are available at these meetings. The Board thanked him for his comments.
BUSINESS MEETING
Consent Items
Jed Seward moved to approve the following consent items.
Minutes of Previous Meetings
The minutes of June 9, 2025, June 23 2025, and July 7, 2025;
Finance Report
The Finance Report for June 30, 2025;
Payment of Bills
The bills as listed for July 14, 2025; Prepaid Bills;
Open Enrollment Requests
Open Enrollment In Requests total 1 student;
Open Enrolled Out Requests total 1 student;
Personnel Items
Contract issued to Jacob Lampe, Middle School Student Success Coordinator, $50,000 per annum;
Contract issued to Emma Henry, West Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, $50,000 per annum;
Contract issued to Mary Ruppenkamp, West Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, $50,000 per annum;
Contract issued to Heather Plank, High School Nurse, $50,000 per annum;
Contract issued to Emma Henry, West Elementary 4th Grade Teacher, $50,000 per annum;
Contract issued to Megan Uden, Middle School Band Teacher, $50,000 per annum;
Contract issued to Liza Fontaine, District TLC Curriculum Coordinator, $57,862 per annum;
Resignation of Sidney Ryan, Middle School Soccer Coach, $3,261 per season, effective June 30, 2025;
Fundraising Requests
High School Football requests approval to raise funds through sale of T-Shirts/Clothing Store from August 2nd to August 20th for volunteer coaches pay, team and coach apparel, supplies and equipment for the program;
High School Football requests approval to raise funds through sale of fundraising cards from August 11th to September 6th for volunteer coaches pay, team and coach apparel, supplies and equipment for the program.
Ryan Schlabaugh seconded the consent items. Motion carried 6-0.
Student Learning
Building Handbooks
The Board again reviewed the Building Handbooks for High School, Middle School, Elementary Schools, Home School and Virtual Academy in preparation for the 2025-2026 School Year. Superintendent Stone requested their acceptance/approval of the handbooks. The Board discussed consistency in discipline and the new “cell phone” policy to go into effect at the start of the 2025-2026 School Year. Consistency between the buildings and within a building was mentioned again. These concerns are for an ongoing process, continuous improvement, documentation by administrators so there is a chance to review past practice and potential improvements.
Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the Student Handbooks for the 2025-2026 School Year as presented. Denise Chittick seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Finance-Long Range Planning
First Reading of Board Policy Changes for Chapter 500’s Students
Superintendent Stone and SBO Swartzentruber thanked the Board for their review work in the June 23rd Work Session and the suggested changes to the Policies in Chapter 500 for Student Policies. The Policies that have proposed changes are:
Gabrielle moved to approve on First Reading Policy 502.7, 503.1, 503.5, 503.7, 506.1, 507.2, and 507.10 as presented and reviewed. Jed Seward seconded the motion. Motion carried 6-0.
Board Development and Inservice Activities
Superintendent Stone discussed with the Board the potential dates to bring Tammi Drawbaugh for a Board Development Session. The Board asked if this is Board only, or between Board and the Administration Team. The topics if the Administration Team is included, then Drawbaugh would suggest the topics, and the Board took a bit of time to talk about some possible topics that include administrators. The Board chose August 14th with a timeframe of 5:30 p.m. to 8.p.m., as the date and time for this session.
Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda
The next Work Session Meeting will be on Monday, July 28, 2025 at 6:15 p.m. Agenda items to be determined.
The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 11, 2025, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room. Agenda items to include: Review list of Public Depositors and set deposit limits; Board Policy 903.6 Matching Funds Amounts; Insured Booster Groups List Approval.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 7:11 p.m.
Mid-Prairie Community School District
Kalona, Wellman, West Chester
Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room, Wellman, IA 52356
July 7, 2025 – 6:30 p.m.
President Jake Snider called the meeting to order.
Board members present Mary Allred, Randy Billups, Gabrielle Frederick, Ryan Schlabaugh, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.
Board members absent: Denise Chittick.
Staff Present: Superintendent Brian Stone, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber
Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented. Seconded by Randy Billups. Motion carried 6-0.
Work Session
MPCSD Strength and Conditioning
President Snider opened the meeting and noted the purpose of the meeting was to gather input from the community on the current status of the District’s Strength and Conditioning program. There has been a community group meeting periodically over the last 6 months or so. The goal is hear input from different parties on perspectives. Groups that spoke included Performance Therapies, Coaching Staff, Community Members, and athletes. The conversation was very productive. Many ideas and thoughts were expressed for the Board to consider. Discussions with staff and administrators will continue as the options are explored.
Adjournment
The meeting adjourned at 8:39 p.m.