2022-23 BOARD MINUTES

June 26, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

June 26, 2023– 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Marianne Schlabach chaired the meeting in the absence of both President Jeremy Pickard and Vice President Gabrielle Frederick.  Schlabach called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Jeremy Pickard (arrived at the meeting at 6:40 p.m. and left the meeting at 7:35 pm.), Marianne Schlabach, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard (arrived at the meeting at 6:40 p.m. and left the meeting at 7:35 p.m.), Jed Seward.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

Hawk Highlight – Tad Morrow of Carl A Nelson Company provided an update of the projects funded by the Revenue Bond proceeds.  He shared about the Softball Light project that has been complete, the High School Track project that is on schedule, and finished with the Middle School and East Elementary additions, which are the largest of the 4 projects.  He reviewed the current status of the latter and updated the Board with pictures in addition to the budgeted numbers.  The budget is in very good shape with some savings and no change orders to date.

Jeremy Pickard arrived during this agenda item at 6:40p.m.

Public Forum

No one spoke.

Work Session

Administration Reports and Board Dialogue

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.

Review Board Policies in Chapter 600

Superintendent Stone worked through the Chapter 600 Policies with the Board as part of the five-year rotation of Board Policy Review.  As policies were reviewed, there were a dozen of these policies that were noted for change mostly due to changes in IASB language and law changes in the last legislative sessions.

Pickard left the meeting at the end of this agenda item at 7:35 p.m.

Business Meeting

Consent Items

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of June 12, 2023;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for June 26, 2023 and prepaid bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Sheri Drahos requests Peter Drahos (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Belle Plaine Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Karin Sadle requests Moriah Swanson (Grade 11) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Michelle Vincent requests Gavin Vincent (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Eric and Dana Ratliff request Abigail Ratliff Grade 1) and Jacob Ratliff (Grade 4) (G) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from North Cedar Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Zack and Jessica Woods request Cyrus Woods (Alternative Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Angela Jacoby requests Paicyn Jacoby (Grade 7) attend Clear Creek Amana Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Alec Clark, District Activities Director, $98,000 per annum as of July 1, 2023;

Contract issued to Hannah Mougin, Middle School Assistant Softball Coach 2022-223, $1,289.40 per season;

Contract issued to Mikaela Lunsford, High School JV Girls Basketball Coach, $2,813 per annum;

Resignation of Ashlyn Gugel, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour, effective June 15, 2023;

Fundraising Requests – No Fundraising requests presented for approval;

Madrigal Choir Trip Out of State – October 2023 trip for the Madrigal Choir to travel to Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois for a Chamber Choir Festival is recommended for approval;

Denise Chittick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 4-0.

Superintendent Stone then shared briefly about the hiring of Alec Clark, the new Activities Director, and the hiring process.  Clark had intended to be present this evening but was drawn away before the meeting due to a family issue.

Student Learning

Student/Parent Handbooks

Superintendent Stone drew the Board’s attention to the handbooks for each building. He noted that the handbooks have been digitized to enhance reading and searches.  High School Principal Chuck Banks noted the High School Handbook.  Changes were made to the following sections of the Handbook:  Commencement; Excessive Absences; Early Release/Late Arrival Program; Procedure for Short Term Suspensions; Long Term Suspensions and Expulsions; Code of Conduct; Visitors; and Cell Phones.  The Academic Honor Code and the Good Conduct Policy—related to Activities and a District Policy—are the most noted additions to the High School handbook for next year and was explained by Banks.  The Board discussed the broadness of the language in a portion of the Good Conduct Policy and asked questions for clarification.  The Board asked for the Good Conduct Policy to be reworked and brought back to the Board in July.  Middle School Principal, Rob Hruby, noted changes to the Cell Phone Policy, Dress Code (same as High School), and the insertion of specific consequences for illegal substances. The Elementary Schools made a few minor changes, as well, including changes to Hearing Screening; Discipline Referrals, OSS, ISS; Teacher Requests/Classroom Placements; and East Start Time of 8:20AM.  It was noted that there is a need to review the Chromebook policy for the Middle School.  Home School made minor changes to their student handbook and noted those, including the review of Middle School versus High School expectations in a similar manner to the High School and Middle School buildings. The Virtual Academy has no changes to their handbook.

No action was taken on the handbooks as the Good Conduct Policy (503.4) needs to be approved before the handbooks can be accepted.

2024 IASB Legislative Priorities

Business Manager Swartzentruber drew the Board’s attention to the IASB Legislative Priorities document for the 2022-2023 Legislative Year.  IASB has begun the inquiry and process for districts to determine their legislative priorities for the 2023-2024 Year.  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.  It is planned that the Board will begin that process with a timeline to determine the priorities at the next meeting.

Last year’s priorities included:

  • 8.  Mental Health
  • 10.  Area Education Agencies
  • 16.  Teacher Recruitment and Licensure
  • 20.  Supplemental State Aid
  • 23.  Bond Issues

Board Policy Chapter 600 Changes on First Reading of Policies Reviewed

Superintendent Stone introduced the chapters that need to be reviewed by the Board based upon the established annual cycle.  The chapter for 2023-2024 is the 600 series.  IASB has also been engaged to also provide a review of our policies in comparison to current. This was just completed by IASB and will be reviewed by Stone for additional process by the Board.  Based upon the work completed in the Work Session this evening, it was asked that a motion to pass on First Reading the changes to the 12 policies in Chapter 600 be made.

Denise Chittick moved to approval Policies 601, 603.2, 603.6, 603.11, 605.1, 605.2, 605.3, 605.5, 606.2 ,606.3, 606.6, 607.2, on First Reading as presented.  Mary Allred second the motion.  Motion carried 4-0

Finance

Superintendent Wage Review for the 2023-2024 School Year

Schlabach noted that this was tabled at the last meeting.  Jake Snider voiced concerns about how this was handled from a business and systematic process.  Superintendent Stone then stated to the Board that he was very clear with the Board at his May 8, 2023 evaluation that he did not ask for raise.  Snider stated that he wanted to ask Superintendent Stone the question about his expectations at the last meeting, but due to his absence was unable to do so and this the agenda item was tabled.

Jake Snider moved to keep the Superintendent wage the same as the 2022-2023 School Year per Superintendent Stone’s request, additionally it is noted that it not based upon job performance.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 4-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Superintendent Stone noted that he talked with Tammi Drawbaugh from IASB to see which of the 12 common topics.  He will get the topics to the Board

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, July 10, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Fiscal Year 2022 Audit Review; TPRA Apprenticeship Memorandum of Understanding need to be updated for Fiscal Year 2023-2024; Review and approve the Good Conduct Policy, 503.4, as revised and ; Second Reading of Chapter 600 Policies that have been change;  Snider asked for a review of the staff rollover that occurred in the 2022-2023;

Board Highlights – Schlabach tabled the Board Highlights

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:22 p.m.

June 12, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

June 12, 2023 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard, Jed Seward.

Also Present:  Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

Brian Stone, Superintendent was absent.

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

Hawk Highlight – Principals Foster and Jergens presented on the TCIT outcome data.  This is the second year of the program and is set to improve social and emotional support.  The initial training was provided by Grant Wood AEA.  The Adults and Teachers are being coached on ways to approach and connect to students using common language elements.  The District continues to have coaches of the program trained so that the District can train the teachers and staff.  Jergens covered some of the data points and graphs of the data to show the progress made during the use of the program in classrooms.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding during the presentation.  Next year, it is anticipated that there will be 4 coaches in the District with 19 Teachers receiving coaching in the program in the 2023-2024 School Year.  The goal is to train all Kindergarten through Fourth Grade teachers.

Public Forum

A parent of a student at the Middle School spoke about their experience with their Special Education Student.  It was found in March that the student had not received education to the IEP.  The question was who is held accountable in administration after something like this is found?

WORK SESSION

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.  Middle School provided a building construction update as did Home School and High School.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of May 8, 2023 and May 15, 2023;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for May 2023;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for June 12, 2023; Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Stacia Danner requests Grady Danner (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Dean and Maria Straub request George Straub (Grade 2), Paraskevi Straub (Grade 3), and Philip Straub (Grade 5) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from College Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Josh and Audrey Kromminga request Hadley Kromminga (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Lauren Ward requests Grayson Ward (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from XX Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Nicole Tucker requests Lexi Haynes (Grade 2), Madisyn Haynes (Grade 5), and  Saige Haynes (Grade 9) attend Fairfield Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Chris Kern, High School 0.5 FTE Physical Education Teacher, $27,534 per annum;

Contract issued to Emma Corbelli, East Elementary Kindergarten Teacher, $40,310 per annum;

Contract issued to Stephanie Schlabaugh, Middle School Fifth Grade Teacher, $41,700 per annum;

Contract issued to Jennifer Zeglis, Middle School Band Teacher, $52,473 per annum;

Contract issued to Marci Stanfield, Nutrition Director, $51,800 per annum;

Contract issued to Brenna Schwenker, High School Head Dance Team Coach, $1,876 per season;

Contract Issued to Jeremy Peck, AM Bus Route Driver, $24.43 per hour;

Contract issued to Travis Hartley, PM Bus Route Driver, $24.43 per hour;

Resignation of Andrew Kahler, East Elementary Custodian, $16.46 per hour, effective 6/2/2023;

Resignation of Aaron Coghlan, High School Assistant Varsity Football Coach, $3,459 per annum, effective 6/5/2023;

Resignation of Aaron Coghlan, Middle School Boys Track Coach, $2,605 per annum, effective 5/15/2023;

Fundraising Requests

Mid-Prairie Basketball requests approval to raise funds through the garage type sale in June and July of old jersey, shirts, and warm-ups to be used for team apparel, volunteer coaches, coach apparel, basketball equipment and supplies;

Mid-Prairie Football requests approval to raise funds through the garage type sale in June and July of old jersey, and other items to be used for team apparel, volunteer coaches, coach apparel, football uniforms, equipment and supplies;

Mid-Prairie Football requests approval to raise funds through sponsor donations for t-shirts as part of the football camp for grades 5 to 12 from July 31 to August 3 to be used for  team apparel, volunteer coaches, coach apparel, football uniforms, equipment and supplies;

Mid-Prairie Home School Assistance Program requests approval to raise funds from May 2023 through December 2023 through Bake Sales, Dine Out Events, T-shirts, Free-will Donations Box and Letters to Businesses for support of programming, community building activities for students and families;

Grant Wood AEA PowerSchool Contract for the 2023-2024 School Year

Recommended for Approval the PowerSchool Access Agreement for the upcoming school year.

Denise Chittick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 5-0.

Student Learning

District K-5 Student Math Curriculum

Kristan Hunter, Curriculum Leader for the District and Teachers Sarah Ihde, Paula Buckwalter, Emily Zehr, Renee Fisher, Mariah Schlabach, Hannah Mougin, Emily Pennington, Renee Fisher, and Hallie Whitten were present and presented the new Math Curriculum work they have completed over the last two school years and are ready to implement in the coming school year.  After two pilots they chose I-Ready, illustrative math, curriculum because of the impact and tools it provided to the students.  They presented the six desired student outcomes with some detail.  The Board asked questions on implementation strategies.  The projected costs for 630 students in 36 classrooms over 7 years from 2023 to 2030 totals $96,793.77.  While this is paid in 2023, the costs spread out over the 7 years will be $384.10 per year per class and $3.13 per student per year. 

Denise Chittick moved to approve Kindergarten to Grade 5 Math Curriculum program for 7 years at a cost of $96,793.77 to be paid in Year 1.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Finance

Dairy Bid for the 2023-2024 School Year

Jeff Swartzentruber School Business Official discussed the Dairy Bid Process as outlined in a memo of May 23, 2023.  Prairie Farms was the only group to provide a diary bid for the upcoming year and for the four 1-year extensions to follow.  He asked for questions on the process and the cost analysis also provided.  Based upon the process and available fact pattern, Swartzentruber recommended the Dairy Bid be awarded to Prairie Farms as presented with the option to extend the agreement and relationship for 4 1-year extensions. 

Mary Allred moved to approve the award of the Dairy Bid to Prairie Farms for the 2023-2024 School year and the 4 1-year extensions as presented.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Superintendent Wage Review for the 2023-2024 School Year

School Business Official Swartzentruber drew the Boards attention to the document.  After Superintendent Stone’s evaluation on May 8, 2023, the next step is to consider updating the wages for the second year of the contract.  All staff received a 3.2% package increase for the 2023-2024 School Year.  Superintendent Stone has stated to the Board that he would not be comfortable with a 3.2% package increase due to the fact that his wages would increase by 3.27% due to the benefit package he receives being lower in growth.  At a maximum, he would prefer his wages to be no higher than the Principals which is near 2.69%--and would bring his overall package increase to 2.68%.  At a minimum there would be no increase to wages for 2023-2024 and the package increase would be 0.28%.  The Board discussed the different approaches and numbers.

The decision was made to table the decision due to the absence of Stone, Pickard, and Seward.  Frederick will seek to find a special meeting date before June 30, 2023.

Termination of Administrator Contract

Superintendent Stone reported that a final action is required to terminate the contract of the Administrator named in the May 15, 2023 meeting.  This is the subsequent and final step in the process.  This requires a roll call vote. 

Mary Allred moved to approve the termination of the Administrator Contract as noted in the May 15, 2023 meeting.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

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

                           Jed Seward                     - absent                Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                           Marianne Schlabach       - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                           Denise Chittick                - yes

Motion carried 5-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Nothing was added at this time.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, June 26, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Acceptance of the 2021-2022 Audited Statements; Begin to review Board Policies for the current policy chapters; 2024 Legislative Priorities for IASB; Tabled Superintendent salary and package increase for 2023-2024.  As there will only be 4 Board Members present, Marianne Schlabach will most likely preside.

Discussion of a special Board Meeting to discuss Superintendent Compensation with Frederick to work with the Board to find a date before June 30, 2023.

Board Highlights

  • Appreciation was expressed for the Graduation ceremony.
  • It is exciting to see the progression in elementary math curriculum.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.

May 15, 2023 SPECIAL MEETING

Mid-Prairie Community School District       

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

May 15, 223, 2023 – 7:15 a.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.  Motion carried 7-0.

Consideration of whether to issue a notice of consideration of termination of administrator contract to Nathan Carlson, an administrator

President Pickard provided an update to the Board on the situation with the administrator contract of Nathan Carlson for the 2023-2024 School Year.  A contract has been issued to Carlson for signature for the Activities Director for Grades 7-12.  He has chosen not to sign the contract.  The existing 2022-2023 Administrator Contract as Middle School Dean of Students and Assistant Activities Director for Grades 7-12 will not be in existence for the 2023-2024 School Year.  Without a termination notice presented to Carlson today, the 2022-2023 contract would extend to the 2023-2024 school year.  As it is clear Carlson will not sign the new Activities Director for Grades 7-12 administrative position, the notice of termination is required.  Carlson is expected to complete his 2022-2023 Administrative Contract in full.  The notice needs to be served Mr. Carlson today. The Board asked questions on the process and for understanding.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to that the Board issue a notice of consideration of termination of administrator contract to Nathan Carlson, Administrator for the following reasons:

  • Declining Enrollment
  • Budgetary Restrictions and Problems
  • Realignment of School Organization
  • Maintenance of Program

Mary Allred seconded the motion.

Roll Call Vote

   Gabrielle Frederick       - yes                                      Mary Allred                        - yes

   Jed Seward                   - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

   Marianne Schlabach    - yes                                      Jake Snider                        - yes

   Denise Chittick               - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:31 a.m.

May 8, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

May 8, 2023 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider (arrived at 6:22 p.m.).

Board members absent:  Jake Snider (arrived at 6:22 p.m.).

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

Hawk Highlight – This agenda item was tabled until 6:40 p.m. in the Student Learning section of the agenda.

Public Forum

A large group of High School and Middle School staff members were present to read a prepared statement on the staff reduction of the Assistant Principal/Activities Director. There is concern for the way the decision was made, a perceived lack of transparency with the decision that was made for the next school year.  A list of the increased duties and a list of questions on how certain tasks and responsibilities will be in the next school year was also included.  They are concerned about the impact this will have on students and learning.

WORK SESSION

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.

Rachel Kerns, HSAP Director, celebrated the last day of the HSAP enrichment program and shared the activities of the day.  There will be strings program on the baseball diamond on May 25th.

Rob Hruby, MPMS Principal, shared about the Kindness Thursday on May 4th as the students entered the community during their WIN Time.

Mr. Stone, handed out plaques of appreciation to the Board members.

Chuck Banks, MPHS Principal, shared the change of the seating arrangement during graduation.

(Jake Snider arrived at 6:22 p.m.)

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of April 24, 2023;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for April 20203;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for May 8, 2023; and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Marah Sharairi requests Layla Abdelaziz (Grade 3) and Rashid Abdelaziz (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Ellie Hill requests Stephanie Hill (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Katie Robinson requests Vienna Robinson (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Kelli Schweitzer requests Halie Schweitzer (Grade8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Mercedes Specht, Seventh Grade Volleyball Coach, $2,276.00 per annum;

Contract issued to Liza Fontaine, Fifth Grade Teacher, $48,303 per annum;

Resignation of Kaylyn LeGrand, Fifth Grade Teacher, New Hire for 2023-24 School Year, effective April 26, 2023;

Resignation of Cory Evans, District Nutrition Director, $55,480.00 per annum, effective June 5, 2023;

TLC Assistant Coaches for 2023-2024

Crystal Gingerich, HSAP, $2,000                                  Rachel Foubert, Middle School, $2,000

Tracy Rusch, Middle School, $2,000                          Ashley Bartels, Middle School, $2,000

Melanie Steinhart, Middle School, $2,000              Jenny Riggan-Sexton, Middle School, $2,000

Mariah Schlabach, West Elementary, $2,000         Kelsey Stumpf, West Elementary, $2,000

Hannah Mougin, West Elementary, $2,000            Elizabeth Dehogues, West Elementary, $2,000

Emily Pennington, West Elementary, $2,000         Jill Poock, East Elementary, $2,000

Melissa Gerot, East Elementary, $2,000                  Hallie Whitten, East Elementary, $2,000

Jennifer Roth, East Elementary, $2,000                   Paula Buckwalter, East Elementary, $2,000

Kara Troyer, East Elementary, $2,000                       Melissa O’Rourke, East Elementary, $2,000

Elsa Schmidt, High School, $2,000                              Traci Zahradnek, High School, $2,000

Sara Puttmann, High School, $2,000                         Jessica Jones, High School, $2,000

Sarah O’Rourke, High School, $2,000                       

Collette McClellen, High School, Technology, $1,000

Natalie Silbaugh, High School, Data, $1,000

TLC Professional Partners for 2023-2024

                Terri Adam, Middle School, $750                                Kim McAtee, Middle School, $750

                Jessica Swartzentruber, Middle School, $1,000    Marnett Meier, West Elementary, $500

                Hannah Mougin, West Elementary, $500                Melissa O’Rourke, East Elementary, $500

                Jill Lundberg, East Elementary, $500                         Mackenzie Kos, East Elementary, $500

                Paula Buckwalter, East Elementary, $500               Chris Tyler, High School, $500

Volunteer Coaches – Summer of 2023

Byron Yoder, Baseball Assistant Coach

Zeb Evans, Softball Assistant Coach

Fundraising Requests

High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through the sale of 30 reserved seats at the Baseball Field for travel, expenses, coaches’ apparel and miscellaneous small equipment;

High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through the sale of apparel for travel expenses, coaches’ apparel and miscellaneous supplies;

High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through hosting a barbeque on May 26th at the Williamsburg game to raise funds for a batting cage protector;

MPHS Graduating Seniors Class 2022-2023

Kirsten Alice Albright                      Grady Alan Gingerich                      Landry Grace Pacha

Grace Cecelia Allred                        Taylor Raquel Gingerich                Zoey Lin Parker

Jaxon Rock Armstrong                   Brianna Jo Gingerich                       Payton Benjamin Peck

Donovan Joseph Bailey                  Josie Mae Greiner                            Brittney Lynn Pfeifer

Emma Elizabeth Baker                   Ella Kathryn Groenewold              Evan Todd Phillips

Sophia Jane Baker                            Taylor Lawrence Hansen-Rich     Camron Jon Pickard

Nathan Michael Bauwens             Maya Jai Harris                                  Alivia Grace Poock

Alexander Jeffrey Bean                 Cera Fae Harsch                                Dillon Michael Poole

Ryan James Beatty                          Braden Rodney Hartley                  Kylie Mae Reinier

Allison Rae Bolanos                         Hallie Marie Hershberger             Zaiden G. Reschly

Levi Jon Bontrager                           Alexa Jo Huber                                  Warren Harold Scharff

Terry James Bordenave                 Elizabeth Anne James                    Beau Allen Schlabach

Kaelyn Marie Brady                         Paityn Olivia Jennings                    Emil Lauren Schlabach

Danielle Lynn Brown                       Stephanie Valentine Jimenez      Madeline Rebecca Schrader

Cain Nickolas Brown                       Amara Elaine Jones                         Jacey Ruth Sisson

Ella Courtney Brunk                        Elizabeth Marie Kalm                      Bella Marie Sobaski

Aiden James Bush                            Koby Lee Karnes                               Dylan James Sojka

Demetrius Jaeden Christensen   Ruby Jonice King                               Caleb Jay Stephenson

Owen Scott Clark                              Lacee Rae Kos                                    Jordan Alan Stock

Marissa Elaine Cline                        Schalyn Elizabeth Lee                     John Andrew Stultz

Grace Eileen Conway                      Drake Kenneth Mann                     Paytin Renee Swartzentruber

Blake Michael Creed                       Ben Edward Mattes                        Jaxsen Ray Timmerman

Shawn Michael Dodds                    Kaden William Meader                  Owen Michael Trimpe

Mariyah Maelee Dusenbery        Collin William Miller                        Nathan Edward Wallington

Kenadi Nicole Fay                             Jerred Frank Miller                           Aidan James West

Noah Andrew Ford                          Leslie Freda Miller                            Kyle Lynn Yoder

Peyton Elena Freeman                   Kina Marie Miller                              Mose Christian Yoder

Irman Ganibegovic                          Ann Pearl Morrison                         Molly Claire Yoder

Mia Renee Garvey                           Shian Kathryn Muller                      Kelyn Dale Yoder

Dade Thaddeus Gehling                Kyan James Nash                              Braydon Cole Younge

Micaela Margaret Ghumm           Kenneth Edward Noble                 Jackson Lyle Zahradnek

                                                                Maya Olivia Nonnemann

MPCSD Virtual Academy Seniors Class of 2022-2023

Colin Conway McClellen                Hannah Jo Tandy

MP-HSAP Seniors Class of 2022-2023

Ava Leone Hatch                               Jacqueline R. Hentrich                    Emma Ruth Johnson

Josephine Scherer Martin             Nolan Dean Miller                            Isaac Jacob Myers

Avery Michael Schartz                    Johanna Schwartz                            Emily Ann Righter

Madison Rose Stai                            Illa Ann Stevenson

Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

District Student Wellness Curriculum Presentation

Kristan Hunter, District Curriculum Leader, along with teachers/counselor Aaron Coghlan, High School Physical Education and Health Teacher, and Kelly Tyler, West Elementary Counselor, presented the process to find new curriculum resources for the Physical Education, Health, and Guidance to the School Board.  The process of researching the curriculum was discussed to integrate the curriculum K-12 to the standards.  Coghlan discussed their PLC process and the use of heart rate monitors that are proposed.  There was also a new set of Health Texts for High School and Middle School The desired outcomes for the chosen curriculum were discussed.  The estimated cost of the new Physical Education Resources is more on the equipment needed for monitoring equipment that can be purchased from PPEL/SAVE in the amount of $10,680.20—as this is under the Superintendent spending limit, there is no action required by the Board.  The Health Curriculum involves the approval of Board approved Curriculum materials over a 7-year period of $6, 299. Hunter and Tyler discussed the Guidance materials with a focus on social and emotional needs using CASEL competencies.  The essential learnings in the CASEL competencies was of great interest as the curriculum was researched and chosen.  Guidance materials require 7-year digital access to support K-4 Guidance Classes and 6-12 Guidance, Advisory and Seminar supports for $13,286.60.  The Board asked questions for clarification.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the new Health Curriculum over a 7-year period in the amount of $6,299, as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the new Guidance Curriculum for all grades over a 7-year period in the amount of $13,286.60, as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Hawk Highlight – This agenda item was tabled to 6:40 p.m. Michelle Bessman and her Fifth-Grade students presented a fund-raising opportunity with Paws ‘n More by selling Candy grams as part of their Junior Achievement project.  In their slide presentation they showed their order form and process for fundraising with a timeline.  The group provided a Fundraising Form for the Board to consider.

Jed Seward moved to approve the Paws ‘n More fundraising project as a part of the Junior Achievements class project.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.  Motion carried 7-0.

Second Reading of Board Policy 711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction

Board President Pickard noted that Board Policy 711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction passed on first reading at the April 24, 2023, Board Meeting.  He asked if there were any questions related to the proposed changes in the Policy.  The first paragraph notes that safety drills need to be conducted at least once per year.  The new regulations are at least two times in a year.

Jed Seward moved to approve the amendment of Board Policy 711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction on Second Reading to change from at least once per year to two times per year.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Sale of Buses

Superintendent Stone and Business Official Swartzentruber discussed the recommendation to sell one to two school buses to English Valleys Community School District.  These were the buses that would have been traded at a value of $3,500 each for the purchase of the two new buses anticipated to be delivered in the Fall of 2023.  The District contacted Hoglund Bus Company to check on their openness for the District to sell the buses to English Valleys and received their approval.  English Valleys offered to buy the buses at the value of trade in.  The District Countered with $4,500 for one bus and $8,000 for a both buses. The intent is to both be a good neighbor and to recognize the condition of the buses as not pristine.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding. 

Denise Chittick moved to approve the sale of 1 or 2 buses to English Valleys Community School District for $4,500 for one bus or $8,000 for both buses as recommended and the additional purchase payment to Hoglund Bus Company for each bus.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Summer Projects 2023

Superintendent Stone directed the Boards attention to the Summer Projects list.  He has worked with the Lead Custodians in each building to reach a total value of projects at $192,500.  The original goal for summer projects was set at $150,000.  However, there are two projects at HSAP that require immediate attention, totaling about $47,000, and as a result, were added to the list.  All of these items are planned to be spent out of PPEL Funds.  The following items exceed the Superintendent spending authority and as such need to be approved by the Board in order to proceed.  These are:

  • West Elementary Floor Replacement with Tile Floors for the 3 rooms in the 4th Grade Wing, Nurse’s Office, Principal’s Office, Reception Area and Supply Room at a cost of $22,864.00.
  • Home School Education Center replacement of the Air Conditioning Unit on the Library roof at a cost of $23,367.50.
  • Home School Education Center replacement of Steel Doors in the gymnasium at a cost of $23,894.53.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Summer 2023 Projects list as presented including the 3 items in excess of $20,000.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Student Feeds for 2023-2024

Superintendent Stone shared the Student Fee Schedule for 2023-2024.  The proposed fee schedule recommends continuing the Book Rental Fees for 2023-2024 at $50 per student from Four-Year-Old Preschool to Grade 12 as was reinstated in 2022-2023.  These fees bring in about $70,000.  As the Nutrition Fund continues in a strong position with a positive fund balance, the District is not required to raise student meal prices for 2023-2024, and as such is not recommending a change.  However, an increase of $0.05 per carton of milk is recommended.  There has not been an increase in extra milk since 2013-2014, when the prices as $0.42 per carton.  The State of Iowa has mandated a $0.70 increase for Adult Lunches for next year from $4.15 per lunch to $4.85 per lunch.  As a result, there is also a proposed increase of $0.50 for Adult Breakfasts.  There has been no increase since 2019-2020 School Year due to the Federal Program for all student free lunch through the 2021-2022 School Year.  The Federal Program is ended in 2021-2022.  Other increases recommended are for Band and Choir Uniform Cleaning Fees, which are based upon cleaning costs. The new fee for Band Uniform Cleaning is $21.00, increased from $17.00.  The new fee for Choir Uniform Cleaning is $17.00, increased from $11.00.

Mary Allred moved to approve the 2023-2024 Student Fees schedule as presented.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Annual Superintendent Evaluation – Closed Session

Jed Seward moved to continue to closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual request a closed session as provided by 21.5(1)(i), Code of Iowa.  Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.

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

                                Jed Seward                         - yes                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

Marianne Schlabach       - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                                Denise Chittick                  - yes                     

Motion carried 7-0.

The Board entered closed session at 7:12 p.m.

The Board returned to open session at 10:11 p.m.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Nothing was added at this time.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

There is only one Board Meeting in May as the Graduation Activities on May 28th are a Board attendance commitment.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, June 12, 2023 at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: K-5 Math Curriculum Review, Superintendent Stone’s compensation package, Review the Joint Statement Policy in Board Policy 302.5,

Board Highlights

  • Agreed it was a great meeting in closed session
  • Appreciated the 5th Grade Fundraiser presentation

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 10:15p.m.

 

April 24, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

April 24, 2023– 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

Public Forum

A group of parents were present to express their concerns about the hire of the new varsity football coach.  Numerous concerns were stated about the process: the hiring of the coach was too quick and not done properly—not enough transparency, ask for the community to be more involved, concern for one coach to be head of two varsity sports back to back.  Other suggestions were made about the process and the long term goals of District athletics.

Hawk Highlight

Superintendent Stone introduced the retiring staff that were present for this recognition.  A total of 7 staff will be retiring at the end of the School Year.  Those not in attendance were Wendy Allen, Joyce Billups, and Nora Kehoe.  Those in attendance were Jill Nisly, Lois Dehogues, Diane Miller, and Melody Black. Colleagues and friends in attendance shared memories and appreciation for the service of the four retirees.  Each retiree was presented with a plaque in recognition of their service to the District.  The Board also expressed their deep appreciation for the commitment to their students and the impact made on so many young people over the years.  There are 88 years of experience encapsulated in the 4 professionals who were honored this evening.  The Board expressed their profound appreciation for their service and the many children’s lives they impacted.

Work Session

Administration Reports and Board Dialogue

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.

Review of Board Policy 213 Public Participation in Board Meetings

Board Members requested that the Board Policy be reviewed to clarify process and procedure.  The Board talked about the public’s participation in the Public Forum versus/and the agenda items within the Work Session and Business meeting.  A back and forth conversation between the Board and the Public is normally not part of the goal of the policy.  Additionally, it is also noted that a back and forth between persons in the public during the public forum is not acceptable, nor is the mention of specific people.  This includes the President of the Board monitoring statements made for respectfulness and not to attack others or disparage other individuals who may also comment during the meeting.  Agenda items later in the meeting could be judiciously monitored with the recognition that it can become quite subjective.  According to Iowa Code the agenda needs to be public at least 24 hours before the meeting.  Pickard encouraged the Board to review Policy 213.  Frederick asked that the Policy be studied by the Board and reviewed at the first June Board meeting in the Work Session.

Business Meeting

Consent Items

Allred raised the question of choosing the right path for a coach to be head coach of two varsity sports back to back.  She asked for the Varsity Football Coach position to be moved from the Consent Agenda Items.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the following consent items less the Varsity Head Football Coach.  Stone noted also the resignation of Tyler Hotz as Assistant Principal and Activities Direction and the transfer of Nathan Carlson to the 7-12 Activities Director to be housed out of the High School.  This eliminates one Administrative position.  The transfer is reported and is not included for approval as no action is required.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of April 10, 2023 and April 18, 2023;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for April 24, 2023 and prepaid bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Amanda Asby requests Jackson Asby (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Cherisa Martin requests Caleb Martin (Kindergarten) and Miranda Martin (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Mercedes Specht, 4th Grade Teacher, $40,310 per annum;

Contract issued to Marissa Tunning, 8th Grade Science Teacher, $45,523 per annum;

Work Agreement issued to Billy Matiyabo, Jr., Second Shift Custodian, $15.88 per hour;

Resignation of Ron Swartzendruber, Middle School Boys Track, $2,713 per season; effective May 30, 2023;

Resignation of Dylan Walther, High School Girls Wrestling Assistant Coach, $3,877 per season; effective April 19, 2023;

Resignation of Traci Waterhouse, West Elementary School Nurse, $39,175 per annum, effective end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Chad Surom, High School Business Teacher, $70,708 per annum, effective end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Kristene Evans, Middle School Special Education Teacher, $51,383 per annum, effective end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Lauren DiGiorgio, Middle School Band Teacher, $47,244 per annum, effective end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Billy Matiyabo, Bus Driver, $25.92 per hour, effective April 20, 2023;

Resignation of Roy Beachy, Bus Driver, $24.42 per hour, effective end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Fundraising Requests

Home School Assistance Program, Roots and Shoots, requests approval to raise funds through annual Spring Flower and Plant Sale for sustainability of the program through the purchase of equipment, supplies and improvements to Home School school grounds, outdoor games, and learning/growing opportunities for students and families;

Denise Chittick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Head Varsity Football Coach

Superintendent Stone and High School Principal Banks made some general comments about the process and the interview committee.  The interview committee provided pros and cons but did not vote as the practice of the community committee is not to vote.  The administration took the input and then made the recommendation to hire.  Included in that consideration is that one person would be the Head Varsity Coach for two back to back sports seasons.  The Board discussed the process and the various positions that the school needs to hire—teachers, coaches, other positions—as all are important.  The item for approval in front of the Board is the contract issued to Daren Lambert, High School Head Football Coach, $4,376 per annum;

Mary Allred moved to hire the Varsity Football Coach as presented.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.  Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

First Reading of Board Policy 711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction

Superintendent Stone introduced the need to update Board Policy 711.7, School Bus Safety Instruction.  The first paragraph notes that safety drills need to be conducted at least once per year.  The new regulations are at least two times in a year.  It is recommended that we begin the update process with a passage of the revision on First Reading. 

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the amendment of Board Policy 711.7 School Bus Safety Instruction on First Reading to change from at least once per year to two times per year.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Future Problem Solvers Out of State Travel to Nationals

Superintendent Stone noted that 3 students have qualified for the international completion to be held from June 7-11, 2023 in Amherst Massachusetts at the University of Massachusetts.  Board approval is required to travel out of state.  Denise Busch, the Talented and Gifted Program Teacher, will accompany the students.  The Board asked questions for understanding. 

Jed Seward moved to approve the participants, not to exceed 4 students, in the International Future Problem Solvers Competition out of state travel to Amherst Massachusetts on June 7 to 11, 2023.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Home School Assistant Program (HSAP) Compensation for 2023-2024

Superintendent Stone, School Business Official Swartzentruber and HSAP Administrator, Rachel Kerns shared the HSAP 2023-2024 Compensation Proposal.  The total increase from 2022-2023 is 2.8%, or $20,959.  While this is less than the 3.2% total package, it takes into consideration that the part-time teachers receive a similar wage raise to other staff in the District.  Included in the proposal is a new Half-Time Teacher at $25,900.  Due to the turnover in staff and change in hours for some existing teachers, the change is less than the new half time teacher.

Jed Seward moved to approve the Home School Assistance Program 2023-2024 wages and packages as presented.  Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Middle School Roof Replacement Projects

Superintendent Stone drew the Board’s attention to two proposals for roof repairs at the Middle School.  Both proposals are made by DR and C, Inc. who has been working on the District’s roof for a number of years, this includes inspections for deficiencies.  The first proposal is to replace the roof over the Middle School Choir room with a proposed amount of $22,453.00 and an Option 1 for $3,970.00 to increase the R value of the roof.  The second proposal is to replace the roof over the Middle School Choir practice room, office and hallway with a proposed amount of $19,317.00 and an Option 1 for $1,780 to increase the R value of the Roof.  As both proposals exceed $20,000, an approval by the Board to accept the proposals is required.  The Board asked questions for understanding.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the DR and C, Inc. proposals, the first to replace the Middle School Roof over the Choir room with a proposed amount of $22,453.00 and an Option 1 for $3,970.00 for a total project cost of $26,423.00 and second proposal to replace the Middle School Roof over the Choir practice room, office and hallway with a proposed amount of $19,317.00 and an Option 1 for $1,780 for a total project cost of $21,097.00.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Possible Property Leases for Cell Towers on District Properties

Superintendent Stone, and School Business Official Swartzentruber updated the Board on initial discussions with Arcadia Towers about the possibility of locating 5G telephone towers on School District Property.  5G towers have a range of about 1.5 miles.  Stone and Swartzentruber explored this inquiry that came on March 15th via email where the initial estimate of revenue was $2.7 million revenue dollars over a 30-year term.  A conference call was initiated on March 29th between Stone, Swartzentruber and an Arcadia Towers representative.  After the meeting, Arcadia sent a draft of the Master Marketing Agreement which if signed would provide them with authority to locate tower property options and begin to shop to Carrier companies.  The marketing timeframe could be as much as 5 years from signing with five additional 1-year options to extend the marketing term for a total of $500 to the District.  Additionally, upon Arcadia finding a Carrier company an initial five-year lease of each property would commence with 9 five-year lease extensions for a total of 50 years possible total lease term.  During the term of the leases the District would be eligible to receive 25% of the monthly rent Arcadia would collect from the Carrier leases.  Any towers erected would also be usable by the District and First Responders for communications.

There are a number of reasons the District might consider this proposal.  The tightness of the properties within the towns of Wellman and Kalona is one concern.  However, the length of the terms of the agreements is of greater concern for Stone and Swartzentruber.  The Board discussed the situation and issues giving consideration to the items noted in the minutes, above.

Mary Allred moved not proceed with the Cell Tower Property Leases.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

As a result of the motion, no further action will be taken with Arcadia Towers.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

The May 8th meeting will include a closed session at the end of the meeting to evaluate Superintendent Stone.  The evaluations by all Board Members are due to Board Secretary Swartzentruber on April 28, 2023 at 4 p.m.  Swartzentruber will compile copies for all Board members and Superintendent Stone to review at the close session.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, May 8, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Evaluation of Superintendent Stone in closed session at the end of the meeting; Discussion of Summer Projects; Potential review and approval of the 2023-2024 School Fees.

Board Highlights

  • Frederick appreciated the Board and Public conversations and interactions
  • Chittick appreciated all she has heard about the “Day(s) of Awesomeness”
  • Allred noted the 88 years of service for the 4 teachers recognized tonight

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m.

 

April 18, 2023

 

                                                    Mid-Prairie Community School District                                                       

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

April 18, 2023 – 7:00 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Marianne Schlabach.

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, High School Principal Chuck Banks, School Business Official/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber,

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

Closed Session

The Board will enter Closed Session as authorized by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a) and 21.5(1) (e) to review and discuss records which are required or authorized by state or federal law to be kept confidential and to conduct a hearing to determine whether to suspend or expel a student—Student A. 

Gabrielle Frederick moved to enter Closed Session by reading the above closed session language.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - absent                                Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

The Board returned to open session at 7:01 p.m.

Action to Expel Student

Gabrielle Frederick moved to expel Student A as recommended by the Administration, signed by the Superintendent, High School Principal, and the School Board President.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.  Motion carried 6-0.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:23 p.m.

April 10, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

April 10 , 2023 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 7:05 p.m.), Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Marianne Schlabach, Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 7:05 p.m.)

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

Public Forum

A parent with students in the District talked about some issues for one of their students related to an incident riding the bus. There are concerns about how the situation is handled.

Another parent addressed the Board about a February bus driving incident with their student.  Their student’s teacher was pulled to go drive a school bus and left the student.  She asked the Board and administrators some questions related to the incident.

Hawk Highlight – Georgia Relief Trip

Amy Shalla Special Education Administrator and a student who participated in the trip provided a report of the trip to Georgia during the week of March 20th to volunteer their efforts at rebuilding after the 2023 hurricane—and the tornados that the storm spawned.  A student provided an update about the 15 students who went on the trip in two vans along with staff.  They discussed the projects, skills learned, and impact on the people helped and on the Mid-Prairie participants.  The group spent the entire week at a golf course that had significant clean up needs due insurance issues.  The group spent the entire week helping to clear the golf course of debris.  The group also took some time to enjoy some down time.  The group relationships deepened during the week.  The Board asked questions about the work completed and the relationships built.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Denise Chittick moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of March 27, 2023;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for March 2023;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for April 10, 2023; Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Brooke Wilson requests Brittney Wilson (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Columbus Junction Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Chelsea Bell requests Jaiden Lara (Grade 8) and Jaxxon Ball (Grade 1), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Rachael May requests Jace May (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Sarah Wilde requests Esther Wilde (Grade 7) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Matt Freel, MS Assistant Soccer Coach, $1,674 per annum;

Contract issued to Kevin Cortum, MS Assistant 8th Grade Boys Track Coach, $1,612 per season;

Contract issued to Frank Slabaugh, MS 0.5 FTE Academic Interventionist, $31,796 per annum;

Contract issued to Taylor Weber, MS 0.5 FTE Academic Interventionist, $27,105 per annum;

Contract issued to Marisa Bieschke, 2nd Grade Teacher, $40,310 per annum;

Contract issued to Madigan Young, MS Art Teacher, $45,523 per annum;

Resignation of Tyler Hotz, HS Assistant Principal and Activities Director, $96,410 per annum; effective end of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Jill Nisly, HS Paraprofessional, $16.50 per hour, effective end of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Angie Boyse, HS Junior Varsity Girls Basketball, $3,013 per season, effective March 30, 2023;

Resignation of Gretchen Steffen, HS Head Dance Coach, $2,808.15 per season, effective April 8, 2023;

Resignation of Ashley Streb, HS Assistant Dance Coach, $1,487.76 per season, effective April 8, 2023;

Resignation of Paige Peiffer, MS Volleyball Coach, $2,256 per annum, effective April 8, 2023;

Volunteer Coach

Terra Huber, MS Girls Assistant Track Coach

Fundraising Requests – None were presented

OPN Master Planning and Design Services

Contract for Services with OPN for $38,800 to follow up OPN selection as Architectural Firm for the Facilities Plan work.

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

Finance

6:30PM Public Hearing – 2023-2024 Certified Budget

Board Vice-President Frederick opened the Public Hearing on the Certified Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024.  No one spoke.  Vice-President Frederick closed the Public Hearing at 6:33p.m. 

Approve the 2023-2024 Certified Budget

Board Vice-President Frederick asked if there were any questions or further discussion. 

Mary Allred moved to approve 2023-2024 Certified Budget as presented.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

6:40PM Public Hearing – Amend the 2022-2023 Amended Budget

Board Vice-President Frederick opened the Public Hearing on the Amendment to the Certified Budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023.  No one spoke.  Vice-President Frederick closed the Public Hearing at 6:41p.m. 

Approve the 2022-2023 Certified Budget Amendment

Board Vice-President Frederick asked if there were any questions or further discussion.

Mary Allred moved to approve the 2022-2023 Certified Budget Amendment as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

28E Agreements for the 2023-2024 School Year

Superintendent Stone directed the Board to the Board Document Site where the 28E Agreements for the 2023-2024 School Year.  We are working to again and continue to share 6 positions with two districts.  This amounts to 18 Operational Sharing student FTEs for $137,430 of additional General Fund Revenue with 21 FTEs being the maximum in any given year.  Two positions are sought for sharing at Lone Tree Schools:  Special Education Director (2) and Transportation Director (4).  Four positions are sought for sharing at Clear Creek Amana Schools:  Buildings and Grounds (4), Human Resources (4), Curriculum Director (2), and Social Worker (2).  If the Board asks the Superintendent to pursue renewal, the President will sign the six agreements and then the signed agreements will go to the two districts.

Jed Seward moved to approve the 28E Agreements—2 to Lone Tree CSD and 4 to Clear Creek Amana CSD for the 2023-2024 School Year as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.  Motion carried 5-0.

Salaries for Principals, Assistant Principals, Directors and Central Office Staff for the 2023-2024 School Year

Superintendent Stone recommends a 3.2% package increase for Principals, Assistant Principals, Directors and Central Office Staff for the 2023-2024 School Year.  This is consistent with the 3.2% package approval for Teachers and Support Staff passed at a March 27, 2023, School Board Meeting.  He shared the documents showing the individual changes.  Two principals receive an experience increase of $2,000 in addition to the 3.2% as has been written into their contracts.  HSAP Administrative Staff and Hourly Teaching Staff raises will be presented for review at the next Board Meeting.  The Board asked questions about the packages and the step increases for two of the administrators.

Jed Seward moved to approve the District Administrators, and Directors wage and package increases of 3.2% for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.  Motion carried 6-0.

Jake Snider moved to approve the Central Office Staff wage and package increases of 3.2% for Fiscal Year 2023-2024 as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.  Motion carried 5-0.

WORK SESSION

Administrative Reports

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility. 

The Board asked questions about the student clean up efforts last Thursday and Friday including the number of students and the properties on which the students worked.  Also, there was discussion for projects that are upcoming.

Superintendent Stone shared about the Softball Lights project that it is moving along nicely.  He also shared about the Wrestling Room project.  We originally had $1 million set aside for this project.  Upon review by OPN, the project is estimated to be at $1.8 million.  There are not enough funds to complete the Wrestling Room in the current project.  This will be brought to the Facilities Committee at Wednesday night’s meeting for consideration in the Facilities Plan.

Jeremy Pickard arrived at 7:05 p.m. at the end of this agenda item.

ISFIS 5-Year Projection Discussion with Larry Sigel

Larry Sigel, ISFIS Executive Partner, joined the Board via Zoom Link to discuss some of the key elements of the 5-Year Projections that the District works through each year.  Superintendent Stone introduced the time by noting the need for SBO Swartzentruber and Stone to continuously review the financial outcomes for the District.  The COVID funding ends at the end of FY2023 and the assumptions made on expenses, student growth, and revenue growth are key as the District looks out five years.  Sigel demonstrated how minor assumption changes can impact the outcomes of Unspent Authorized Balances and General Fund Balance.  Staff costs are 75-80% of total General Fund Costs. This means that the balance between numbers of staff and pay to staff are key markers to watch.  The State Legislature funding increases continue at historic lows in a challenging public school climate.  These make the awareness of trends much more crucial in the near term.  The Board discussed the various elements of the trends.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Superintendent evaluation is currently set for May 15th in closed session if/as requested by the Superintendent.  Wednesday, May 24th at 7pm is suggested as a fall back.  Also, May 8th as part of the regular meeting is also a possibility. Gabby will send an email to the Board to confirm.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 24, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Honor the teacher retirees; and discussion of the Telephone Towers agreement initially researched by Swartzentruber and Stone

Board Highlights

  • Jed Seward appreciated hearing about the number of High School and Middle School students that participated in the tornado clean up;
  • Mary Allred – Appreciated the sharing done by the Student that went on the Georgia trip;
  • Jake Snider – Appreciated seeing the students working together from different groups, coming together during the tornado clean up days;

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m.

 

 

March 27, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

March 27, 2023 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, and Amy Shalla.

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as with an additional Finance Item on 2023-2024 student computer devices.  Seconded by Jed Seward.  Motion carried 6-0.

 

Public Forum

MPEA thanked the Board for their work and noted that there is a small token of appreciation for each person.

Hawk Highlight – Time was given to recognize two long-time custodians that are retiring during this school year.  Mike TeBockhorst, Lead Custodian at East Elementary, retired on February 28th after 32 years of service.  Gary Dawson, Lead Custodian at the Middle School, will retire on March 31st after 17 years of service.  Colleagues and Board recalled memories and shared stories.  The two men were presented with retirement plaques.  The Board thanked the retirees for their service to the District and to the community.

WORK SESSION

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.  Superintendent Stone noted some transfers of teachers, especially as it relates to TLC, and Steve Mayer is moving to Lead Custodian at the Middle School.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of February 27, 2023 and March 20, 2023;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for February 2023;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for March 27, 2023 and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Angela Herrin requests Hailey Herrin (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Christina Walker requests Megan Beasley (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year; Nathan Lavely requests Edward Lavely (Grade 3), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Katherine Roth requests Carli Roth (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from WACO Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Melanie King requests Clara Tse (Grade 11) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

David and Christina Diller request Micaiah Diller (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Andrew Klewin requests Anderson Klewin (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Deborah Bogart requests Oliver Lee (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Thomas and Stacey Casey request Evangeline Casey (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Abigail Maher requests James Maher (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Aaron Stump requests Josephine Stump (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Laura Whitmore requests Jane Whitmore (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Natalie Witte requests Grace Witte (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Rachel Gray requests Hannah Gray (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa Valley Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Heather Cotner requests Aurora Cotner (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Callie Whitlow requests Hensley Whitlow (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from West Branch Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Ranee Brokaw requests Olive Brokaw (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Lynda Halteman requests Ryker Halteman (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Lucinda Newswanger requests Lorene Newswanger (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from XX Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Vanessa Clark requests Adalina Clark (Grade 4), Nathaniel Clark (Grade 8), and Cayden Day (Grade 11) attend Highland Community School District from Mid-Prairie for the remainder of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Jessica Kelso request Maren O’Leary (Kindergarten) attend Clear Creek Amana Community School District from Mid-Prairie for the 2023-2024 School Year;

Klrah Johnson requests Eliza Johnson (Kindergarten) attend Iowa City Community School District from Mid-Prairie for the 2023-2024 School Year;

Personnel Items

Work Agreement issued to Joe Weber, East Elementary Lead Custodian, $16.78 per hour;

Contract issued to Lexi Stanerson, Third Grade Teacher, $40,003 per annum;

Contract issued to MaKenzie Manz, Kindergarten Teacher, $40,003 per annum;

Contract issued to Mikaela Lunsford, Sixth Grade Science, $45,175 per annum;

Contract issued to Laura Colvin, Sixth Grade Social Studies, $47,934 per annum;

Resignation of Bailey Troyer, Eighth Grade Science, $42,761 per annum, effective End of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Sarah Roy, Fourth Grade Teacher, $40,003 per annum, effective End of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Pete Cavanagh, Varsity Head Football Coach, $6,552 per annum, effective March 9, 2023;

Resignation of Nicole Castillo, High School Paraprofessional, $14.70 per hour, effective April 4, 2023;

Resignation of Lois Dehogues, West Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.70 per hour, effective End of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Shelli Tobin-Stafford, Middle School Paraprofessional, $15.48 per hour, effective End of 2022-2023 School Year;

Volunteer Assistant Coaches Spring of 2023

Melissa Fleming, Middle School Track

Jamie Clark, Middle School Track

Fundraising Requests

Prom Committee requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Prom T-shirts to cover costs for prom supplies;

Boys Basketball Strength and Conditioning requests approval to raise funds through the apparel store for supplies, weight equipment and weight room equipment;

Boys Basketball requests approval to raise funds through a June 5th to 8th youth basketball camp fees and sponsorships to pay for volunteer coach positions, coaching apparel, uniforms, and entry fees;

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

Student Learning

MS Academic Interventionists

Middle School Principal Rob Hruby shared a recommendation to create two half-time positions at the Middle School to focus on delivery of Tier 3 interventions for qualifying students in grades 5 through 8.  The positions were previously funded as part of the TLC funds.  As TLC has been restructured for the 2023-2024 School Year, the funding will come from General Fund.  The Middle School has been designated as a targeted school through ESSA.  These positions become an essential part of a healthy multi-tiered system of support.  The two positions will be paid for out of General Fund.  The Board asked questions for understanding and clarification.

Mary Allred moved to approve the creation of 2 half-time Academic Interventionist positions at Mid-Prairie Middle School.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Finance

Fiscal Year 2024 Certified Budget Presentation

Jeff Swartzentruber, School Business Official (SBO) presented the 2023-2024 Certified Budget Proposal and discussed the process for approving the Certified Budget prior to the normal April 15, 2023 due date—for this year it is May 1, 2023.  The current anticipated levy rate for Fiscal Year 2024 is anticipated to be $13.22 per thousand as compared to $13.22 per thousand for the current Fiscal Year 2023.  The legal documents to continue with the Advanced Debt Service Levy as has been done the last 5 years is in process and anticipated to be completed at this Board meeting.  The Board expressed thanks for the presentation and breakdown of the numbers.  Public Hearings for the Budget need to be set in the subsequent agenda items.

Set the Public Hearing for the 2023-2024 Certified Budget

Superintendent Stone and SBO Swartzentruber recommend a Public Hearing for the proposed 2023-2024 Budget be set for April 10, 2023 at 6:30pm in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  A Notice of Public Hearing that includes the Budget Summary for Fiscal 2023-2024 is set to be published in the News upon approval.   

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Notice of Public Hearing on the 2023-2024 Proposed Budget for April 10, 2023 at 6:30pm in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Set the Public Hearing for the 2022-2023 Amended Budget

Superintendent Stone and SBO Swartzentruber highlighted the Public Hearing document for the amendment of the 2022-2023 School Year Budget.  The area for amendment is the Total Other Expenditures category.  When the original 2022-2023 Certified Budget was submitted, the expenditures for the SAVE Revenue Bonds were not yet known.  An addition of $5,091,953 is proposed to this section bringing the total after amendment to $8,800,000.  While it is believed that the amount will be less than that, a higher amount is requested in order to assure the function area is not exceeded while recognizing the revenue has been received in this fiscal year.  The recommendation for a Public Hearing for the proposed 2022-2023 Budget Amendment be set for April 10, 2023 at 6:40pm in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  A Notice of Public Hearing that includes the Budget Amendment for Fiscal 2022-2023 is set to be published in the News upon approval.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Notice of Public Hearing on the 2022-2023 Budget Amendment for April 10, 2023 at 6:40pm in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Redemption of General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2014 Resolution

SBO Swartzentruber shared the Resolution as prepared by Ahlers and Cooney for the advanced Debt Service Levy for the 2023-2024 School Year.  This advanced levy will allow the District to pay an additional principal of $825,000 and to shorten the term of the bonds by an additional year, and four years in total since the District began to do the advanced Debt Service Levy in Fiscal Year 2019-2020.  The total early redemption amount is $3,655,000

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the Resolution for the Advanced Debt Service Levy to pay an additional principal amount of $825,000 in Fiscal Year 2023-2024.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                     Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                     Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

2023 2024 IBB Wage Negotiations Update

Superintendent Stone noted that the MPEA (teachers) and MPESSA (Hourly Staff) Associations approved the 2023 2024 School Year compensation package proposal of 3.2% at the end of the day on Friday, March 24, 2023.  The summary document used with the IBB in the negotiations steps were shared with the Board to provide additional detail. This is the same total compensation package percentage as approved for the 2022 2023 School Year, although the portion allocated to the insurance benefit package was a larger percentage of the packet.  The package is now recommended to the Board for approval.  The Board asked questions for clarification.

Mary Allred moved to approve the proposed compensation package increase of 3.2% for Teachers and Hourly staff for the 2023 224 School Year as presented.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

2023 2024 Student Computers New Devices

Superintendent Stone noted that the 1:1 device program has a rotation of computer equipment that is purchased on an annual basis in order to keep the computer equipment fresh.  Each year devices are purchased for the incoming 9th Grade class—iPads—at the High School and the incoming 5th Grade—Chromebook—at the Middle School.  The students then use the devices assigned to them during their time in each building.  The devices used by the Senior class and 8th graders are then recycled through a recycler although the devices in better shape may be retained as extras or for use within the elementary schools.  Additionally, there are devices at both elementary schools—all iPads and cases—that need to be replaced.  The new devices needed for the 2023-2024 School Year total $199,804.65 for High School $69,543.50, Middles School $39,312.15, West Elementary $53,154.00, and East Elementary $37,795.00.

Jed Seward moved to approve the purchase of replacement computer devices for the 4 schools for a total of $199,804.65 as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.  Motion carried 6-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Superintendent Stone is making inquiries to Larry Sigel at ISFIS to meet with the Board about the District’s 5-year projections.  Stone also noted the need to contact your legislators about Senate File 251 and the 5% limitation on administration.  Of the 327 schools in Iowa the average is 10.2% spent on administration.  Administration is defined very broadly to include District Administration, Principals, Counselors, Transportation, Custodial areas.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 10, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Public Hearings for the FY 2024 Certified Budget and the FY2023; and 28E Agreements with Clear Creek Amana and Lone Tree school districts.

Board Highlights

  • Jed Seward like report about the recent KCRG visit to HSAP
  • Denise Chittick liked the upcoming Opening Day Ice Cream celebration at the Middle School
  • Mary Allred enjoyed hearing the stories about the Custodians as we honored them; Marianne Schlabach also echoed this; Gabrielle Frederick also noted her appreciation for the connections made by Custodial staff with the students
  • Jake Snider appreciated Mike TeBockhorst’s song for the Board

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:59 p.m.

February 27, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

February 27, 2023– 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, and Frank Slabaugh.

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Jake Snider.  Motion carried 6-0.  Stone noted that the dates for parent teacher conferences need to be changed due to scheduling conflicts.

Public Forum

A resident of the District and grandfather to a student and graduates, addressed the group about a concern about the teaching of US History and Civics in the school system and the approach taken.  He stressed the importance of “History being taught without biased, then the good, the bad, and ugly of our history will not be tainted.”  He would like to see History and Civics taught as a graduation requirement, a whole year for each.  He also discussed the need for our students to understand their rights as outlined in the Constitution.

A parent of a high school track athlete stated he  is here to hear more about the track and noted he attended the last School Board meeting when Public Hearing for the Track specifications and bid. He asked about the process undertaken since the last Board meeting.  This was explained partially at this time and then in more detail during the Bid agenda item for track.

Hawk Highlight – OPN Architects

Superintendent Stone introduced Carly Weber to provide an update on focus and activities that are being undertaken for the Facilities Plan.  She discussed the Survey that is out and the various ways that it is accessible.

Work Session

Administration Reports and Board Dialogue

The Board asked questions and discussed the report forms shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.

Business Meeting

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of February 13, 2023;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for February 27, 2023 and prepaid bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Jacqueline Lucas requests Trennen Lucas (Grade 5) Jordan Zahs (Grade 1) and Weston Zahs (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Stacy Cavey, Middle School Girls Track Coach, $2,263 per annum;

Contract Issued to Aaron Fleming, Middle School Head Girls Track Coach, $3,276 per season;

Contract Issued to Cindy Duwa, Bus Driver, $25.92 per hour;

Contract issued to Brody Miller, High School Assistant Baseball Coach, $2,901 per season;

Contract issued to Byron Yoder, High School Assistant Boys Soccer Coach, $2,790 per season;

Contract issued to Maria Schlabaugh, East Elementary Counselor, $45,175 per annum;

Contract issued Kaylyn LeGrand, 5th Grade Teacher, $40,003 per annum;

Contract issued to Lindsey Sivetts, 5th grade Teacher, $50,693 per annum;

Volunteer Assistant Coaches Spring of 2023

Pat Cady, Boys Soccer

Sofia Adams, Boys Soccer

Gary Curtis, Girls Track

Max Mongrello, Golf

Dominic McCain, Golf

Resignation of Diane Miller, 3rd Grade Teacher, $55,043 per annum, effective end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Gary Dawson, Middle School Lead Custodian, $18.65 per hour, effective March 31, 2023;

Fundraising Requests – None presented at this time;

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

Student Learning

Virtual Academy Contract with Total Package Hockey for the 2023 2024 School Year

Superintendent Stone and Virtual Academy Principal Frank Slabaugh presented the contract with a recommendation of approval.  Total Package Hockey Academy (TPH) is a club hockey organization with 16 different sites in the United States and Canada. TPH recruits students to their program to compete in hockey practices and games in a mostly total submersion approach that includes academics as part of the program.  If the contract goes forward TPH works with parents and their students to enroll in the TPH program, which can include boarding students, and does include open enrolling these Iowa resident students into the Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy (MPVA).  It is estimated that this could bring in as many as 20 to 30 students in the first year—doing turf sports in the first year—to the Virtual Academy.  TPH operates their program in multiple states.  MPVA was recommended to TPH by MPVA’s educational service provider, Edmentum.  The Board asked questions for understanding and clarification.

Jed Seward moved to approve contract between MPVA and TPH for the 2023-2024 School Year as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Finance

Accept Bids for Middle School and East Elementary Additions and Renovations Project

Superintendent Stone introduced Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson and Company and Abby Tornow of Shive-Hattery Architects to discuss the bid opening for the Middle School and East Elementary Additions and Renovations Project paid for with Revenue Bonds.  There are 9 Bid Packages for the Project.  8 of the Packages received bids.  There was a bid irregularity on Bid Package 7 to which Morrow addressed with the bidder to correct.  He also noted that there were no bids on Package 3, the Masonry package.  Masonry will go out for rebid on March 1st with the bid opening to take place on March 14th. He asked for any questions.  The Board asked questions about the various bid packages and add-ons.  The masonry estimated amount is $1.2million.  HVAC package had one bid and was higher than hoped.  He also discussed the process to get started by April 10th.  Frederick noted the Alternate 1 to pave the fire access road.  The Board discussed the pros and cons of Alternate 1.

Denise Chittick moved to approve the 8 bid packages and projects for the Middle School and East Elementary Additions and Renovations Project as presented without Alternate 1 in the amount of $6,416,474 construction costs.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Schedule a Special Board Meeting to Review and Potential Acceptance of the Masonry Bid

Superintendent Stone and CANCO’s Morrow stated the need to put a rebid out to the masonry contractors.  The rebid invitations will be sent after tonight’s School Board Meeting.  The Bid Opening meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 14, 2023.  Once the Bids are opened, there is a need for the Board to hold a Special Meeting to approve the masonry bid.  It is suggested that the meeting be March 20th or March 21st at 6:00pm with a quorum needing to agree to be present.  The Board directed Stone to set the meeting up for Monday, March 2oth at 6:00p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.

Accept Bids for High School Track Reconstruction Project

Superintendent Stone again asked Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson and Company to discuss the High School Track bids, also paid for with Revenue Bonds.  In August of 2021, there was discussion of building of an 8-lane track and at that time it was conceptual.  During that process it was determined that a 6 land track was a better option due to costs and earthwork requirements.  Additional time and effort would be needed to get the project in a position to bid if moved to an eight lane track with hopes for completion in 2023 becoming unrealistic.  It was noted that the current bid scope of the project is for the reconstruction of the current 6 lane track.  The Board discussed the impact and ramifications from a scope and cost perspective.  The project would be started immediately after Graduation Day.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the 2 bid packages and project for the High School Track Project in the amount of $471,497.80 of construction costs.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.  Motion carried 6-0.

Post the acceptance of Bid, Morrow noted the Long Jump reconstruction and the scope of those elements and a logo on the high jump pad.  He also noted that he has discussed this with Midwest Track.  He noted that these items could be taken out of contingency should there be any.

Board Policy 405.2 to Determine the 2023-2024 New Teacher Sign-on Bonus Amount and Stipulations

Superintendent Stone noted that the Board is consulted each year to determine if a sign-on bonus is warranted, the amount of such award, and the stipulations used to determine eligibility.  For Fiscal Year 2022-2023, the sign-on amount was set at $5,000 and was to be paid to all new teacher hires.  Stone recommends that the amount for 2023-2024 would not increase the amount for all new teacher hires.  The District continues to find the applicant pool for new teachers is quite low and all teacher roles are hard to fill.

Mary Allred moved to approve a $5,000 sign-on bonus to be paid to all new teacher hires for the 2023-2024 school year in accordance with Board Policy 405.2.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.  Jake Snider abstained from the vote.

WCRF Application Resolution

Superintendent Stone recommends one grant request for the funding round that ends March 12, 2023.  It is the “It’s All About That Bass” request of $40,863 with a total estimated project cost of $55,863.  The project will replace the Sousaphones and Tubas for the Band.  Additional items include new platforms with fasteners are in the grant request to replace current platform configurations.

Denise Chittick moved to approve Resolution 02272301 for the WCRF Grant Application as presented “It’s All About That Bass “Grant for $40,863 on a total estimated project cost of $55,863.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                    Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach       - yes                                     Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

Utility Easement Request

Superintendent Stone and School Business Official Swartzentruber introduced the agenda item.  Interstate Power and Light (also known as Alliant Energy) has presented an easement request to create a 10-foot easement along the east property line for the property on the Southside of Highway 22 to the East of the High School.  The easement will be used for crossing the property with electricity by boring underground.  This was one of the two parcels of farm ground property purchased December of 2019.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

Jake Snider moved to approve the permanent easement with Interstate Power and Light as presented in the document.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Purchase of 12 Passenger Van

Superintendent Stone and School Business Official Swartzentruber introduced the agenda item and directed the Board to the recommendation document prepared by Teresa Hartley, Transportation Director and Cory Evans, Nutrition Director. This van would be used to replace a current 8 passenger van that is proposed to be converted for use as a Nutrition transport van between the High School and West Elementary.  It was found that 2019-2021 used 12 passenger van with 30,000 to 50,000 miles is selling at auction for around $40,000 to $45,000.  A van has been located in Texas that meets the criteria.  Due to the size of the purchase, Board approval is needed.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding. 

Denise Chittick moved to approve the purchase of an 11 or 12 used passenger van not to exceed $45,000.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Nothing added at this time.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

There will be a special Board meeting on March 20, 2021, at 6 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room, as noted earlier within the minutes, to approve the Masonry Bids and the change in High School Parent Teacher Conferences.

Due to Spring Break being the week of March 13 to 17, 2023, the next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, March 27, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Set the 2023-2024 Certified Budget Public Hearing; Report on the Facility Committee planning process and status, Debt Service Pre-levy status,

Board Highlights

  • Mary appreciates the wonderful letters from students on ideas for changes to the District that were provided to the Board
  • Marianne taught Junior Achievement at East Elementary and received great thank you notes
  • Jed likes that the bids are still under budget on the Revenue Bond Projects
  • Denise like that the District now has projects that can be started with Revenue Bond proceeds
  • 262 responses already to the survey for the Facilities Review for the General Obligation Bond review project with OPN
  • Appreciation for the time the Steering Committee has invested in the Facilities planning process

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:17 p.m.

February 13, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

February 13, 2023 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in because of the leave early/absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

Public Forum

The Mid-Prairie Golden Hawks Archery Club, an independent and non-school sponsored group that has operated for four years, various coaches spoke about the space needs and positive experiences of their club. Currently, they are set up at the West Chester School gym where 16 students can practice at a time.  The season starts in October and the State meet is in March.  For the current season there are 96 athletes and 12 coaches in the program. The coaches are required to participate with an archery unit in the schools for physical education.  They have a goal of bringing a tournament to the District.  The group wants the Board to be aware of their space needs for practice.  Others, including students, also introduced themselves and discussed aspects of the program.  The ability to participate on a team is one of the significant benefits as many of the participants are not out for other school sponsored teams.

Hawk Highlight – IHSSA State Large Group Speech Contest and All-State Nominations

Christie Meader, High School Speech Coach, and her four All State awarded students, talked about the IHSSA State Large Group Speech Contest and All-State Nominations.  The students touched on the conference competition, district competition, and then the state competition.  District competition is quite rigorous as a One rating makes the competitor eligible for State.  Should a competitor receive two One Ratings, then they are eligible for an All-State Nomination.  Only 5% of students receive an All-State Nomination.  Mid-Prairie has four All State Awardees.  The individual season is now starting.  There 20 participants each for both Large Group and Individual seasons.

WORK SESSION

Administrative Reports in written form were provided to the Board for their review, consideration and questions.  Superintendent Stone noted the reports are for the Board to review with verbal reports not necessarily needed each meeting.  Questions are welcomed and encouraged.

Superintendent Stone reported on the OPN activities including the initial kick-off meeting for the Steering Committee on Thursday, February 9th.  Work is being done on a community survey.  Also, on Friday, February 10th, OPN representatives visited the buildings for an initial walk-through.  The Board asked questions for clarification.  A Community Facilities Committee will be convened soon after the community survey is completed.

BUSINESS MEETING

Consent Items

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of January 23, 2023;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for January 2023;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for February 13, 2023, and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Tyler and Amanda Stutsman request Beau Stutsman (Prekindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Amelia Johnston requests Sullivan Johnston (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Lone Tree Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Eden O’Connor requests Eamon O’Connor (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Jessica Cary requests Kaylee Kindred (Grade 8) attend Keota Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Ross White requests Rylea White (Grade 3) attend Keota Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Wyatt Cady, High School Boys Head Soccer Coach, $4,339 per season;

Contract issued to Melanie Steinhart, Middle School Softball Coach, $1,860 per annum;

Contract Issued to Kristan Hunter, TLC Curriculum Leader for 2023-2024; Existing Staff;

Contract Issued to Emily Zehr, TLC West Elementary Instructional Coach 2023-2024; Existing Staff;

Contract Issued to Sarah Ihde, TLC East Elementary Instructional Coach 2023-2024; Existing Staff;

Contract Issued to Erin Cavanagh, TLC High School Instructional Coach 2023-2024; Existing Staff;

Contract Issued to Kelsi TeBockhorst, TLC Middle School Instructional Coach 2023-2024; Existing Staff;

Resignation of Mike TeBockhorst, East Elementary Lead Custodian, $19.45 per hour, effective February 28, 2023;

Resignation of Melody Black, West Elementary Kindergarten Teacher, $65,774 per annum, effective end of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Emma Brenneman, 6th Grade Science Teacher, $49,314 per annum, effective end of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Joyce Billups, East Elementary Kindergarten Teacher, $55,043 per annum, effective end of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Chris Kern, 0.5 FTE High School Physical Education Teacher; $27,416 per annum, effective end of 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Jamie Clark, Middle School Track Coach, $2,217 per season, effective January 27, 2023;

Fundraising Requests - None presented for approval;

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

Student Learning

Proposed 2023-2024 School Calendar)

Superintendent Stone presented the recommended 2023-2024 School Calendar to the Board for their consideration.  The Interest Based Committee has worked through the process of the calendar over the past few weeks.  The Calendar contains 1,115 instructional hours, compared to the State minimum of 1,080 hours.  Stone asked Board members Chittick and Seward to comment on the process and any observations they might have for the full Board.  It was noted the Parent Teacher Conferences are on the same night.  Also, the Wednesday before Thanksgiving is the additional day off rather than the Monday after Thanksgiving. 

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the 2023-2024 School Calendar as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Student Trip Out of State

Amy Shalla, Special Education Administrator, shared the Proposal from Matt Freel, Behavioral Interventionist.  Freel requests permission to lead a small group of High School Students to Griffin, Georgia to assist with disaster recovery efforts.  The group would consist of 15 students and supervisory adults traveling to Georgia during the week of March 20th, which is the week after Spring Break week.  The trip is funded with Title IV funds, a grant from Fund for Academic Excellence, and private donations.  The group will be partnering with UMCOR.  Mid-Prairie has partnered with UMCOR from four years ago when Freel led a group to Tampa, Florida after hurricane Irma.   The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

Jake Snider moved to approve the trip to Griffin, Georgia for students and staff to travel out of the state of Iowa in the Week of March 20, 2023.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.  Motion carried 6-0.

Second Reading, School Board Policy 505.5, Graduation Requirement Policy

Vice President Frederick noted the Policy had passed the First Reading on January 24, 2023.  No changes have been proposed from the First Reading.  A request for any additional comments or discussion by the Board was made.  Board member Snider expressed some reservation for the lack of foreign language.  He also expressed concerns about the Math third credit class and Algebra II.  Principal Banks responded to both concerns constructively.  Foreign language will continue to be reviewed.  Also, the State is moving toward requiring Algebra II for high school students.  Board members discussed the flexibility and continued movement and improvement to the plan and policy currently on the table.  Vice President asked for a motion to pass Board Policy 505.5 Graduation Requirements on Second Reading. 

Marianne Schlabach made the motion to approve on Second Reading of Board Policy 505.5, Graduation Requirement Policy as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Finance

Flexibility Account Spending Resolution

Superintendent Stone and Business Manager Swartzentruber noted that the Flexibility Transfer Account Resolution was passed at the January 23, 2023 Board Meeting.  The resolution passed allowed for the transfer of $252,034.80 from Home School Assistance Program to the Flexibility Account.  A resolution is also required to approve the spending and spending plan for the funds transferred to the Flexibility Account. 

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve Resolution 021323 Directing Expenditures from the Flexibility Fund and read pertinent parts of the resolution. Jed Seward seconded the motion. 

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                      Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

Certified Budget Hearing and Presentation Schedule Options

School Business Official Swartzentruber shared the scheduling handout for the Certified Budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024.  Due to the Board’s meeting schedule and to the ongoing actions with the State Legislature and Governor, there is some ambiguity as to how and when the 2023 2024 Certified Budget Information will be finalized.  Based on those issues, the Certified Budget is due either April 17, 2023 or May 1, 2023.  Public Hearing dates to be set and posted could be a bit complicated.  There are three options.  While we may aim for the first one, the budget presentation may be made on the night of the Public Hearing and be the same date for Board Action to approve.  The Board asked questions for understanding and clarification.

Public Hearing at 7:00 P.M. for the Middle School and East Elementary School Additions and Renovations

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick opened the Hearing at 7:00 p.m. for public comment on the additions and renovations for the Middle School and the East Elementary School using the proceeds from Revenue Bonds.  It is noted that bids on the projects will be opened on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at 2 p.m. in the Central Office Community Room.  No one spoke.  Frederick closed the public hearing at 7:01 p.m.

Public Hearing at 7:10 P.M. for the High School Track Reconstruction

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick opened the Hearing at 7:10 p.m. for public comment on the reconstruction of the High School Track.  It is noted that bids on the projects will be opened on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at 2 p.m. in the Central Office Community Room.  A group of parents and coaches were present for the Public Hearing.  Concerns were expressed about the timing of the project—there were impressions that it would be done before this track season.  Questions were asked about the current timeline.  Frustrations for the timing were expressed by others in the group including injury history and also six-lane versus eight-lane sizing—where conference, Districts can be hosted, as well as economic benefit.  Also, the shot and discuss throwing circles need attention.  The Board acknowledged the concerns presented.  The Board directed Superintendent Stone to have a conversation with Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson Company on the concept of the eight-lane track. The Board thanked the group for their input on this process.  Frederick closed the public hearing at 8:00 p.m.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

Nothing added at this time.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, February 27, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Approval of the bids for the Middle School and East Elementary Additions and Renovations and High School Track Reconstruction Projects; and WCRF Grant Application Resolution for Fine Arts Boosters and possible Middle School Library project submittals.

Board Highlights

  • Appreciate Jed’s statements about caring for our students during the Track Public Forum
  • Archery in the Public Forum was appreciated as were the Large Group Speech Group that went to State and both of these groups’ success individuals; especially when the Archery participants that have never been part of a team;
  • The passion that SBO Swartzentruber’s puts into the paperwork and processes for the District;

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:16 p.m.

January 23, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

January 23, 2023– 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:19 p.m.).

Board members absent:  Jake Snider (arrived at 6:19 p.m.).

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Gabrielle Frederick.  Motion carried 6-0.

Public Forum

No one spoke.

Hawk Highlight – Caedyn Huston, Mid-Prairie 8th Grade Student

Caedyn Huston shared of his interest and involvement in Civil War history, and participation in Civil War Re-enactment exercises.

Jake Snider arrived during the above agenda item at 6:19 p.m.

Hawk Highlight 2 – Board Appreciation Month

Superintendent Stone made comments of thanks to the Board as January is Board Appreciation Month.  The Administrative team handed out cards and cake for the Board.  Each Board member also received a gift of thanks from the Administrative team.  A cake was served to celebrate our Board.

Work Session

Administration Reports and Board Dialogue

The Board and Administrators discussed the new report format and the items shared by each Administrator about their areas of responsibility.  Superintendent Stone introduced the new reports as a snapshot of what has happened in each building.

Business Meeting

Consent Items

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of January 9, 2023; and January 18, 2023;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for January 23, 223, and prepaid bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Michael & Kyle Jenn request Jase Jenn (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Stephanie Seylar requests Emmalyn Seylar (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2023-24 School Year;

Jenni Panosh requests Delainey Markt Grade 7, and Paisley Shuey (Grade 3) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Cedar Rapids Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Blade and Derek Gehrke request Charleston Gehrke (Grade 4) and Elijah Gehrke (Grade 5) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from College Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Work Agreement issued to Mike Ferguson, West Elementary Lead Custodian, $16.78 per hour;

Resignation of Shelby Cook, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.70 per hour, effective 1/30/2023;

Resignation of Tina Hernandez-Zudell, Middle School 5th Grade Teacher, $70,708 per annum, effective the end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Michelle Bessman, Middle School 5th Grade Teacher, $70,708 per annum, effective the end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Wendy Caszatt-Allen, Middle School 5th Grade Teacher, $70,973 per annum, effective the end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Mikayla Ulin, Middle School Art Teacher, $41,382 per annum, effective the end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Nora Kehoe, East Elementary Counselor, $70,927 per annum, effective the end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Resignation of Karalee Smith, K-12 ELL Teacher; $49,314 per annum, effective the end of the 2022-2023 School Year;

Fundraising Requests

The Dance Team requests approval to raise funds through the mailing of sponsorship letters from February 20th to March 10th to raise funds for uniforms, poms, choreography fees, accessories and team items;

The Dance Team requests approval to raise funds through the April 8 Dance Team day—camp and performance to raise funds for uniforms, poms, choreography fees, accessories and team items;

Marianne Schlabach seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Set a Public Hearing for the Middle School and East Elementary School Additions and Renovations

Superintendent Stone and Tad Marrow of Carl A. Nelson Company noted that a public hearing needs to be set to for public comment on the plans and specifications for the Middle School and East Elementary School Additions and Renovations.  The proposed date and time on the Public Hearing Document is    February 13, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to set the Public Hearing for the Middle School and East Elementary Additions and Renovations for February 13, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Set a Public Hearing for the High School Track Reconstruction

Superintendent Stone and Tad Marrow of Carl A. Nelson Company noted that a public hearing needs to be set to for public comment on the plans and specifications for the High School Track Reconstruction.  The proposed date and time on the Public Hearing Document is February 13, 2023 at 7:10 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.

Mary Allred moved to set the Public Hearing for the High School Track Reconstruction.  The proposed date and time on the Public Hearing Document is February 13, 2023 at 7:10 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

After the setting of the Public Hearings, Tad Morrow from Carl A. Nelson and Company shared an updated Construction estimate based upon the Construction Drawings and Specifications to be used for the Bid Packages. There were very minor changes to costs.  The Board asked questions of Tad Morrow and of representatives of Shive-Hattery who were also present for this portion of the meeting.

Incentive to Attract New Bus Drivers

Superintendent Stone and Business Manager Swartzentruber shared the recommendation to increase the Bus Driver referral and incentive from $500 to each party—after the driver drives three times--to $1,000 for the referral source—paid half at the first pay of the driver and the second half after the new driver has driven a minimum of 10 times with the referral source being an employee of the district or a community member.  The new driver incentive amount is between $1,000 and $2.000 to the new bus driver—with the first half to be paid at the first pay period the driver drives; second half to be one calendar year after the first payment if the driver is still working for the District.  The incentive is in place until the Superintendent and the Transportation Director determine the driver roster is adequate.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the new incentive amounts and terms as recommended with the increased amounts and terms, above.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Hiring a New Architect

Superintendent Stone noted that OPN is the recommended choice to be the new Architectural firm.  He commented on the interview process and his appreciation for the effort of the Board in the interviews and evaluation of the finalist candidate.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the selection   Denise Chittick seconded the motion.  Motion carried 7-0.

7:15 p.m. Public Hearing for the Flexibility Transfer of HSAP Funds

President Pickard opened the Public Hearing at 7:15 p.m. on the proposed transfer of $252,049.80 proposed transfer of funds from the Home School Assistance Fund Balance at June 30, 2022, to the Flexibility Account.  No one from the public spoke (last year was $259,000).  He closed the Public Hearing at 7:16 p.m.

Fund Transfer to Flexibility Account

President Pickard asked for a motion to approve the Flexibility Account Transfer Resolution. 

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Resolution 012322 Flexibility Fund Transfer from the Home School Assistance Program Fund Balance to the Flexibility Account in the amount of $252,034.80 and read pertinent parts of the Resolution.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

First Reading, School Board Policy 505.5, Graduation Requirement Policy

High School Principal Chuck Banks presented their recommendation of a change to Board Policy 505.5 Graduation requirements.  The proposed changes remove the three graduation lanes and distinction between buildings attended.  Additionally, there is a change from the two year requirement to a one year requirement for the type of diploma earned—High School, HSAP, Alternative Center.  The change in credit expectations have been simplified for the different buildings. The expectations of students do not change as the rigor remains at a very high level.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding on the requirements and elements of accreditation.

Jed Seward made the motion to approve on First Reading of Board Policy 505.5, Graduation Requirement Policy as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Board Development and Inservice Activities

President Pickard noted the legislative discussions on vouchers.  This will be on both floors this week.

Mary Allred asked about trades classes offered at the High School level.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, February 13, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Public Hearings for the Middle School and Elementary School Additions and Renovations, and High School Track Reconstruction; Second Reading of Board Policy 505.5; Update on Architectural Firm process and timeline; WCRF Grant Application Resolution for Fine Arts Boosters; 2023-2024 School Calendar; Flexibility Fund Spending Resolution; and A discussion on trades classes at the High School.

Board Highlights – No Highlights shared.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

 

January 18, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District      

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

January 18, 2023 – 4:20 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward (arrived at 4:25 p.m.), Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard and Jed Seward (arrived at 4:25 p.m.).

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber, Rob Hruby, and Greg Jergens

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

Work Session

Administrator and Board Dialogue

Superintendent Stone invited Tad Morrow of Carl A Nelson and Company to make some opening remarks about the interviews of the finalist for the District’s Architectural firm.

Jed Seward arrived during this portion of the meeting.

CLOSED SESSION

Board Vice President Gabrielle Frederick noted that the Board will enter closed session to discuss and evaluate the initial Architectural Request for Qualifications.  Vice President Frederick asked for a motion to enter closed session as provided in 21.5 i. 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. 

Marianne Schlabach moved for the Board to enter into closed as provided in 21.5 i. 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                                      Jeremy Pickard                 - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach         - yes                                      Jake Snider                       - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 4:27 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 9:38 p.m.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

January 9, 2023

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

January 9, 2023 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Gabrielle Frederick called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 6:18p.m.

No one spoke.

Hawk Highlight – MP West Elementary 4th Grade Team

The 4th Grade Teachers from West Elementary came to discuss items they have been working on in their Professional Learning Community (PLC) and their focus on What I Need (WIN) group initiatives.  There is constant review of test scores and evaluation of progress of students.  Rotations take place very 4 to 6 weeks and results in a very fluid situation for the students.  Now looking at how to add enrichment activities for students as they progress through their materials and educational goals.  The students seem to appreciate and thrive in this environment and look forward to WIN and the individual focus time.  There has been success in Reading that now has been expanded to Math.  Superintendent Stone noted the process and progress using the data and implementing strategies for their students.  West Elementary Principal, Robin Foster, expressed her appreciation for the team and how it has been built on trust of each other. The Board expressed appreciation for the work.

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of December 12, 2022;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for December 2022;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for January 9, 2023; Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Jedric and Jessica Miller request Stavia Miller (Grade 9) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Brian and Rachel Bartachek request Jordan Bartachek (Grade 9), Quinn Bartachek (Grade 4) and Serena Bartachek (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Montezuma Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Aaron Coghlan, 8th Grade Boys Basketball Assistant Coach, $1,859.70 per annum;

Contract issued to Ron Swartzendruber, 7th Grade Boys Basketball Assistant Coach, $2,340.12 per annum;

Contract issued to Melissa Rediger, Professional Partner, $500.00 per annum;

Resignation of Pat Cady, High School Boys Head Soccer Coach, $6,552.00 per Season, effective December 16, 2022;

Fundraising Requests

FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Strawberries from February 1st to 15th for use in their community, student body, and leadership projects for this school year and next school year;

FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through hosting the Mid-Prairie Mini Dance Marathon and the sale of t-shirts from February 1st to 15th for children and families experiencing childhood cancer by sending donations to the U of I Dance Marathon;

Appointment of Level 1 Investigators

The Principals are appointed as Level I Investigators – Amy Shalla, Rachel Kerns, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Chuck Banks, and Frank Slabaugh are named.  Superintendent Stone is appointed as the First Alternate to the Level I Investigators.

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

School Finance

Set a Public Hearing for the Flexibility Transfer of HSAP Funds

Business Manager Swartzentruber noted that a Public Hearing for the transfer of Flexibility Funds from the Home School Assistance Program to the General Fund needs to be set.  The amount to be transferred from the Home School Assistance Program is $252,034.80.  These are unspent funds available after the HSAP has completed the program expenditures for the prior year.  The Public Hearing is proposed for Monday, January 23, 2023 at 7:15 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room. 

Marianne Schlabach moved to set the Public Hearing on Flexibility Fund Transfer for January 23, 2023 at 7:15 p.m. in the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Determine Incentive for Early Resignation of Licensed Employees

Superintendent Stone proposes amounts for 2022-2023 Fiscal Year with Board Policy 407.1 as follows: for the third Friday in February, $2,000 and by the third Friday in March, $1,000.  The Board discussed the amounts proposed and asked additional questions for clarification.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the amount of $2,000 as the incentive for the Third Friday in February and the amount of $1,000 as the incentive before the third Friday in March in Fiscal Year 2022-2023.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Student Learning

Second Reading of Board Policy 507.9 Cardiac Emergency Response Plan/Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)

Vice President Frederick and Superintendent Stone reminded the Board that Board Policy 507.9 was approved on First Reading at the December 12, 2022, School Board Reading.  She/He/They asked if there were any questions on the proposed language as written.  Hearing none, it is recommended that the revised policy be considered for approval on Second Reading. 

Denise Chittick moved to approve Board Policy 507.9 Cardiac Emergency Response Plan/Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) on Second Reading as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

SBRC Request for Additional Allowable Growth for At-Risk & Drop-Out Prevention Program

Superintendent Stone introduced the annual resolution for consideration.  The request is for Modified Supplemental Aid for 2023-2024 Dropout Prevention Program of $253,630.00 to implement the At-Risk and Dropout Prevention program plans.  The local match component is $84,543.  It is recommended that the Board pass this resolution prior to the January 15, 2022 deadline.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the resolution by reading Resolution 01092301 for Additional Allowable Growth for Modified Supplemental Aid of $253,630.00 for implementation of the 2023-2024 School Year At-Risk and Dropout Prevention program plans.  Jew Seward seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                     Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                                     Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

Work Session

Administration and Board Dialogue

Superintendent Stone discussed the High School Track Project and the current budget and changes in some of the specifications.  Stone also invited Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson and Company to the potential changed scope of the High School Track Project.

The Board took a 15 minute break before action was taken to go to Closed Session.

CLOSED SESSION

Board Vice President Gabrielle Frederick noted that the Board will enter closed session to discuss and evaluate the initial Architectural Request for Qualifications.  Vice President Frederick asked for a motion to enter closed session as provided in 21.5 i. 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. 

Marianne Schlabach moved for the Board to enter into closed as provided in 21.5 i. 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                                     Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                                     Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 6-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 7:26 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 8:25 p.m.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, January 23, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Public Hearing for the Flexibility Transfer of HSAP funds at 7:15 pm.; Set a Public Hearing on the Middle School, East Elementary, and High School Track Construction specifications;

Board Highlights

  • Communication around the Board Table at tonight’s session was a highlight

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.

December 12, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

December 12, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Mary Allred. 

Gabrielle Frederick moved to redact 5C – Paraprofessional Recommendation for West Elementary on the agenda.  Jed Seward seconded the amendment.  Motion Carried 7-0.

Motion to accept the agenda as amended was voted upon.  Motion Carried 7-0.

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight

Elsa Schmidt and FFA students highlighted their trip to National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana from October 26th to October 29th at Lucas Oil Stadium.  They traveled with West Branch FFA.  There were side trips as well.  They visited a dairy farm prior to the opening session.  After the opening session they visited two Indiana colleges to learn about their programs.  They also attended the FFA Expo and Career Show.  They experienced the World’s Toughest Rodeo.  A highlight was David Murry receiving his FFA American Degree.  He is the 27th member of Mid-Prairie FFA to receive this degree and is one year removed from high school.  The students expressed thanks for the opportunity to attend.  The Board asked questions for clarification and expansion of understanding.  There are currently about 65 FFA Members attending Mid-Prairie.

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue

The Administrators shared updates.  Amy Shalla shared about the Christmas gift drive for Mid-Prairie families that applied through HACAP. Rob Hruby shared about the Middle School’s Iowa Scorecard receiving a high rating.  However, there is one area/grouping that is identified as “targeted” for assistance.  They are looking forward to addressing this area.  Greg Jergens shared the K-5 grades are piloting new math curriculum.  Noted the buildings are enjoying the holiday festivities and focus.  Frank Slabaugh noted the Virtual Academy is currently serving 25 students.  Additionally, HSAP students are taking Chemistry as well as a few High School students for some course offerings that do not fit their schedules.  The company that Virtual Academy uses for services has asked to highlight Mid-Prairie and the approach taken for Virtual Academy.  Chuck Banks has been working with a Staff Council on graduation requirements and hope to have a recommendation for the Board in January.  He is very proud of the work that has been accomplished.  Gabrielle Frederick stated how proud of our elementary school staff and their work on curriculum, especially the Math nights at both elementary buildings where 203 families attended.  Robin Foster noted the PLC work that the building teams have been doing together and the progress that has been made to date.  While there is still work to be done, the dynamics in the buildings has been exciting.  Brian Stone noted how impressed he is with the Administration Team as they have been working on the PLC activities within the buildings.  He would like to share this with the Board the happenings within the teams and the accomplishments that continue to develop.  Stone also distributed the emergency preparedness flipcharts to each of the buildings.  Stone shared that he is on the IHSAA Board as the Southeast Iowa Representative.  Jeff Swartzentruber reported that the two new school buses were delivered on Friday, December 9th.  These buses are equipped with cargo holds and will replace the current cargo buses.

Facility Planning Update

Superintendent Stone shared the update.  A Facilities Planning Committee group is in the process of being formed.  Stone also discussed the Architectural Request for Qualifications process and the timeline for the Architectural Firm Search.  The timeline include the January 9, 2023, Board Meeting where the firms are paired down the 3 to 4 finalist firms.  Following that the January 18, 2023 session would be for interviewing the finalist firms.  The questions were:  1) Who would be included from Board and Administrative Team; 2) It is a full Board participation on January 9, 2023, and then January 18, 2023 starting at 4:30 p.m., alone or with Administrative Team and potentially others?  The Board discussed the questions.  These would be in closed session.  Three members volunteered to represent the Board – Jake Snider, Jed Seward, and Jeremy Pickard, with Gabrielle Frederick a possible addition in lieu of the entire Board participating.  There would also be other staff involved in the process.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of November 28, 2022;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for November 2022;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for December 12, 2022, and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Nolan and Kim Decker request Tristan Decker (Grade 9), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Nate and Deb Carlson request Dempsey Carlson (Grade 5) and Harlynn Carlson (Grade 3), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Resignation of Jordan Tebockhorst, West Elementary Lead Custodian, $18.56 per hour, effective December 15, 2022;

Volunteer Coaches for Winter of 2022

Vinnie Bowlin, High School Boys Wrestling Assistant Coach, $-0- to be paid;

Justin Garvey, High Schools Girls Wrestling Assistant Coach, $-0- to be paid;

Fundraising Requests

Mid-Prairie Student Boosters requests approval to raise funds through a Trivia Night, Open Gym Childcare with FCCLA students on February 11, 2023, with funds raised to enhance the PK-12th Grade Student Educational Experiences;

Mid-Prairie Student Boosters requests approval to raise funds through an online fundraiser via contact of friends and families for donations from January 23 to February 10, 2023, with funds raised to enhance the PK-12th Grade Student Educational Experiences and provide a “day of awareness;

Marianne Schlabach seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Second Reading of School Board Policy 802.4 Fixed Assets

Board President Pickard asked for any questions from the Board with regard to the policy.  There were none.

Jed Seward moved to approve School Board Policy 802.4 Fixed Assets on Second Reading as presented.  Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Second Reading of School Board Policy 708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

Board President Pickard asked for any questions from the Board with regard to the policy.  There were none.

Mary Allred moved to approve School Board Policy 708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records on Second Reading as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Budget Guarantee Resolution for FY2023-2024

Business Manager Swartzentruber provided the Regular Program Budget Adjustment Resolution #121222 and recommended approval of the resolution.  Due to the District’s Resident Student Count on October 1, 2022, reported as 30.60 students down from the previous October 1, 2021 Student Count, it is very likely that increased funding by the State of Iowa for schools will not meet last year’s budget funding.  The resolution allows for the District to receive at least 101% of the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year Revenue. Open Enrolled In students were up 29.60 students from the October 1, 2021 Student Count. While this offset is encouraging, the funds from Open Enrolled Students come from semi-annual bills to the districts from which the Open Enrolled In students come. 

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Resolution #121222 Regular Program Budget Adjustment as presented.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.

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

                           Jed Seward                     - yes                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                           Marianne Schlabach       - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                           Denise Chittick                - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

Review RFP for the architect search process

Superintendent Stone and Tad Morrow of Carl A. Nelson Company reviewed the current Request for Qualifications document to be sent to architectural firms as part of the process of reviewing the next steps of the Long-term Plan currently in development.  The document, while in draft form, would be sent to 7 to 10 firms.  It was noted that this is part of the due diligence process and to be consistent in our approach.  The subset of the Board and appointed group will winnow the list down to 3 or 4 firms that would be contacted for interviews as noted during the Work Session Facilities Update.  The process is to make it about the most qualified firm that includes a number of criteria where fees are a part of the process but not the most important deciding factor.

Denise Chittick moved to approve the Request for Qualifications Process as presented in the search for an Architectural Firm.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

First Reading of Board Policy 507.9 Cardiac Emergency Response Plan/Automatic External Defibrillator (AED)

Superintendent Stone outlined the need to revise and update Policy 507.9.  Training requirements are being strengthened within the policy.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.  It is recommended that the revised policy be considered for approval on First Reading. 

Mary Allred moved to approve Board Policy 507.9 Cardiac Emergency Response Plan/Automatic External Defibrillator (AED) on First Reading as presented.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Closed Session

Board President Pickard noted that the Board needs to enter closed session to discuss the purchase or sale of a particular real estate parcel.  President Pickard asked for a motion to enter closed session.

Gabrielle Frederick moved for the Board to enter to 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.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 7:17 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 7:32 p.m.

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, January 9, 2023, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Second Reading 507.9; Set a Public Hearing on the Flexibility Account Transfer; and Set a Public Hearing for the Specifications and Bid Process to let bids for the East Elementary, Middle School, and High School Track additions and renovations.

Board Highlights

  • The Board took a Holiday Greeting video at the end of the meeting.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m.

November 28, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

November 28, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider (arrived at 6:19 p.m.).

Board members absent:  Jake Snider (arrived at 6:19 p.m.).

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, and Amy Shalla.

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

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight

Superintendent Stone introduced the Care Solace Program for School Communities and discussed the use of the program within the District.  This is a mental health initiative, service, program to assist our students in getting help for various social and emotional issues in an around the clock application.  The program will be funded with Title IVA Funds.  The Board looks forward reports on the program.

Board Member Dialogue with Iowa Legislators

President Pickard welcomed Iowa Legislators Heather Hora and Dawn Driscoll to the meeting.  He expressed appreciation for their willingness to serve the District constituents.  Both Driscoll and Hora introduced themselves and their respective roles in the legislature.  The Board and administrators, Hora, and Driscoll then engaged in a discussion of legislative issues of concern for the District.  Items discussed included the school voucher program, teacher retention issues, apprenticeship programs for teachers—paraprofessionals to teachers—and students, especially the trades for the students.  They encouraged folks to reach out at any time to give feedback and to ask questions.

Jake Snider arrived during this agenda item at 6:19 p.m.

Facility Planning Discussion

The Board continued discussions on the Long-term Facilities Plan and began to prioritize the projects identified to date.  Some preliminary costing was shared by Superintendent Stone using the priorities list.  He shared two initial scenarios for the Board to review and discuss and explained it further as phases. There was discussion on the approach to projects and the longer or shorter terms on bonds.  It is recognized that the needs do tend to change rapidly.  What are the top priorities and the timeframe for communication and education to the Public.  The Board discussed next steps and needed items: Reconvene a Facilities Committee with the constituency; develop a robust plan for September of 2023 referendum followed by other referendums in November of 2023 or March of 2024.  Students continue to be the primary focus of the projects and planning. The Board tentatively agreed to move the process forward as discussed in principle.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of November 14, 2022;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for November 28, 2022;

Open Enrollment Requests

Don Waltenberger requests Anya Waltenberger (Grade 10), attend Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy from Pella Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Nathan and Laura Kooyman request Julie Kooyman (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Ankeny Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Laura Schmitt, High School Grade 9-12 Counselor, $43,451 per annum/21,502 Prorated;

Work Agreement issued to Jane Blieu, High School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour;

Contract issued to Jared Duwa, High School Assistant Wrestling Coach, $2,790 per season;

Fundraising Requests – No requests presented for approval

Denise Chittick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

First Reading of School Board Policy 802.4 Fixed Assets

Business Manager Swartzentruber presented the change to the Policy due to the change in IASB policy pertaining to fixed assets and GASB 87 Leases.  The capitalization policy moves fixed asset tracked from the current $2,500 amount to $5,000.  It removes language related to GASB 34 language and inserts GASB 87 language for leases.  The GASB 87 lease threshold is recommended to be considered only if a lease is greater than 1% of the previous year General Fund expenses, which would set it at $190,000+.  There are no leases near that threshold.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve School Board Policy 802.4 Fixed Assets on First Reading as presented.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

First Reading of School Board Policy 708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records

Business Manager Swartzentruber presented the change to Policy to increase the current fixed asset capitalization threshold from $2,500 to $5,000.  This is to keep the Policy in synch with School Board Policy 802.4. 

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve School Board Policy 708 Care, Maintenance and Disposal of School District Records on First Reading as presented.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

Closed Session for the Mid-Year Review of the Superintendent Goals

Board President Pickard stated that the agenda notes the Board will move to closed session to review the progress of Superintendent Stone as it relates to the goals the Board gave him at the time he was hired.  Superintendent Stone has requested this to be a closed session under 21.5(1)(j) of the Iowa Code.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to enter closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session as provided by 21.5(1)(i), Code of Iowa.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion. 

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 8:06 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 9:24 p.m.

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, December 12, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  101% Budget Guarantee Resolution; Second Reading of Board Policies 802.4 and 708; Facility Planning Discussion; In January – Level I Investigators and Flexibility Transfer for HSAP Funds Public Hearing Set;

Board Highlights

  • Affirmed the direction of the Board conversations
  • Quieter Board Members spoke more

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 9:29 p.m.

 

November 14, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

November 14, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

RETIRING SCHOOL BOARD ANNUAL MEETING

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred (arrived to the meeting at 7:19 p.m.) Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Mary Allred (arrived to the meeting at 7:19 p.m.).

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

Marianne Schlabach moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Denise Chittick.  Motion carried 6-0.

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of October 24, 2022;

Denise Chittick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Adjournment (Sine Die) The Board President adjourned “sine die” the final meeting of the 2021-2022 and partial 2022-2023 School Board at 6:16 p.m.

New Board of Education – Organization of the 2022-2023 Board

Board Secretary, Jeff Swartzentruber, called the meeting to order at 6:17 p.m.

Nominations for President of the Board of Directors for the 2022-2023 School Year:

Jake Snider Jake Snider nominated Gabrielle Frederick for President of the Board.  Gabrielle Frederick responded to the nomination and expressed reservations.  Swartzentruber asked for a second.  Motion died for lack of a second.

Marianne Schlabach nominated Jeremy Pickard for President of the Board.  Additional nominations were requested by Swartzentruber, and there were none.   Seconded by Denise Chittick.  Further discussion ensued.  Motion carried 5-0 as Jeremy Pickard abstained from voting.

Nominations for Vice-President of the Board of Directors for the 2022-2023 School Year:  Jeremy Pickard nominated Gabrielle Frederick for Vice-President.  Additional nominations were requested by Swartzentruber, and there were none.  Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.  Motion carried 6-0 .

The Oaths of Office were administered Jeremy Pickard President of the Board and Gabrielle Frederick Vice President of the Board.

New President Jeremy Pickard, again, called the New Board of Education meeting to order.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to adopt the agenda as presented for the New Board.  Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.  Motion carried 6-0.

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight

Behavior Interventionists, Beth Dehogues and Mackenzie Kos provided an update on their work and changes to Minor and Major Behavior Matrix.  They provided a view of the matrix and connected it to the PBIS program.  They also discussed the Continuum of Responses approach that dovetails into the strategy used for the matrix and followed this up with details.  This program was presented to staff and continues to be implemented.  The Board expressed appreciation for the presentation and the explanation of the program and protocols.  The Board also asked questions of Dehogues, Kos and administrators for clarification.  The program was strongly affirmed.

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue

Facility Long-term prioritizing

The Board continued discussions on the Long-term Facilities Plan and began to prioritize the projects identified to date.  Some preliminary costing was shared by Superintendent Stone using the priorities list.  He shared two initial scenarios for the Board to review and discuss.  The Board discussed the approach to referendum questions for an increase of the bond levy rate and a question for the amount of General Obligation bonds to be issued for the projects.  The discussion centered on asking the questions at the same time, or asking them separately.  The Board recognizes that the community needs to understand the long-range plan and the steps included with the master plan.  The Board discussed a smaller scope of projects first and then a larger project later as part of the master plan.  The Board discussed the issues related to usage of the various spaces including Fine Arts, Education, and Athletic.  At the next meeting the Board needs to determine the approach to be taken, will it be one question, or two questions.  And of the debt service levy question what is the level to raise the debt service levy.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

The Board returned to the Facility Long-term prioritizing of the Work Session

(Mary Allred arrived at 7:19 p.m.)

Consent Items

Jed Seward moved to approve the following consent items.

Finance Report

The Finance Report for Year-to-date October 2022;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for November 14, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Asenath Shetler requests Brice Shetler (Grade 2) and Celie Shetler (Grade 5), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Jamie Mullins requests Mackenzie Rilea (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy from Williamsburg Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Zachary and Angela Miller request Beckett Miller (Grade 5) and Brylee Miller (Grade 8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Caleb Potts, High School Math Teacher, $18,885 per remainder of School Year;

Work Agreement issued to Deana Nolan, High School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour;

Contract issued to Megan Neal, High School Prom Sponsor, $929.85 per annum;

Contract issued to Brock Moore, Middle School Head Girls Wrestling Coach and Boys Assistant Wrestling Coach, $A per annum;

Winter Volunteer Coaches

Jared Duwa, Assistant HS Wrestling Coach, $-0-

Shannon McCain, Assistant HS Wrestling Coach, $-0-

Timothy O’Tool, Assistant HS Boys Basketball Coach, $1,500 from Basketball Resale

Tana Boshart, Assistant MS Girls Basketball Coach, $-0-

Noah Hugh, Assistant MS Boys Wrestling Coach, $-0-

Fundraising Requests – No requests submitted

Marianne Schlabach seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Interest Based Bargaining School Board Representative

The board discussed who the representatives from the Board will be for the 2022-23 School Year.  Jed Seward and Denise Chittick served in this capacity last year with approximately two meetings per month from November to March or April and scheduled to precede School Board meetings.  The first meeting will be prior to the December 12th School Board meeting.  Then future meetings will also be prior to the School Board meetings.  Jed Seward and Denise Chittick both stated and openness to serve for the upcoming year.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to appoint Jed Seward and Denise Chittick as the School Board Representatives to the Mid-Prairie School District Interest Based Bargaining Committee for 2022-2023 School Year.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    The Motion carried 7-0.

Washington and Johnson County Conference Boards

The board discussed who the representatives for these boards will be for the 2022-2023 School Year. Both boards work to approve the County Budget via the Assessor’s Office.  Gabrielle Frederick is the only Johnson County resident amongst the School Board Members.  Gabrielle Frederick represented Mid-Prairie at Johnson County and Jake Snider represented Mid-Prairie at Washington County in the prior fiscal year.

Jed Seward moved to approve Gabrielle Frederick as the Johnson County Representative to the Johnson County Conference Board and Jake Snider as the Washington County Representative to the Washington County Conference Board for the 2022-2023 School Year.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    The Motion carried 7-0.

IASB Representative/Delegate

The board discussed who the delegate to IASB would be for the coming year after this week’s annual convention and delegate session.  Gabrielle Frederick has served as the IASB delegate for Mid-Prairie for the past number of years.  She stated that she is willing to continue in this role and yet welcomed others to serve in the coming year if they have interest.  The Board discussed representation at IASB.

Mary Allred moved to approve Gabrielle Frederick as the IASB delegate for the coming year to start immediately after the November 16-18, 2022 Annual Convention.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Utility Easement Request – Soccer Field

Business Manager Swartzentruber presented a request for an underground electric easement by Interstate Power and Light Company (Alliant Energy) for a utility easement to cross on the North border of the soccer field complex as noted on the Exhibit B map that is attached to the Easement Document.  The Board approved an Underground Electric Easement in June of 2022 for an area at the North most point for the placement of a pad-mounted XMFR and pole.  Alliant found that the underground area they had planned to use at the street is already overcrowded with other utilities making their original plan untenable.  This this request allows them a 10 foot area on the north boundary of the Soccer fields.

Mary Allred moved to approve the permanent easement with Interstate Power and Light as presented in the document.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

SBRC Resolution for Additional Allowable Growth for Enrollment and ELL

Business Manager Swartzentruber presented the additional allowable growth resolution that, if passed, will allow the District to increase spending authority of $64,043 for Open Enrollment Out and of $6,226.92 for ELL Beyond 5 Years.   These amounts are a result of the Certified Enrollment data from the October 1, 2022, count date.

Jake Snider moved to approve Resolution 11142201 to allow the Superintendent to request increased spending authority of $64,043 on Open Enrollment Out for the 2022-2023 School year and $6,226.92 for ELL Beyond 5 Years.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

Carl A. Nelson/Shive-Hattery Presentation on the Design Development process for the upcoming East Elementary and Middle School additions and renovations projects

The Carl A. Nelson and Shive-Hattery teams provided an update on the East Elementary and Middle School Design Development process for additions and renovations.  Shive-Hattery shared an overview of the current site plans and building drawings of both buildings and noted that there are not significant changes from the previous phase. Also included was a review of budget of these projects at this point and changes made to the projects as preparations for bid documents and bid packages are prepared.  Shive-Hattery discussed the Wrestling space as part of their presentation and discussed an initial estimation before the Schematic Design phase as it appears that it may be higher than the $1million.  There is recognition that the scope needs to be further refined on the Wrestling space.

The next phase is to move to Construction documents for the Middle School, East Elementary, and the High School Track to be presented to the Board at the January 23, 2023 meeting.  The Board informally agreed to continue to move forward with this process for the three projects.

Reschedule the March 13, 2023 School Board Meeting

Superintendent Stone discussed the potential need to change the first Board Meeting in March as this is Spring Break week with a number of Board Members known to be absent due to travel plans.  Another date needs to be considered and/or selected unless the March 13, 2023 date is cancelled outright.  A special meeting could be called as needed.

Mary Allred moved to cancel the March 13, 2023 School Board Meeting.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.  Motion carried 7-0.

Superintendent Evaluation Process

Gabrielle Frederick presented some ideas about the Superintendent evaluation process.  Normally, it would be the second meeting in November.  The Superintendent Contract states that it is to be conducted on May 15, 2023, which is not a scheduled Board Meeting date, for the first year of his contract.  Frederick stated her thoughts on having Superintendent Stone share the progress towards the goals that the Board had set at the next School Board meeting.  She recommends that it be a closed session at the end of the next meeting with recognition that this is Superintendent Stone’s decision.  Additional comments were made about timing, process, and content of the evaluation.  The Board provided feedback to move in the direction stated above for the next meeting in November.  Frederick also discussed the idea of doing a Board Member evaluation, either peer to peer or self-evaluation.  There seemed to be agreement to explore the Board Member evaluation idea.

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

President Pickard has invited State of Iowa Legislators Heather Hora and Dawn Driscoll to the Work Session of the November 28th School Board Meeting.

Business Manager Swartzentruber noted that the District has been approached about our interest in leasing a 100 foot by 100 foot portion of our property for a cellphone tower at $500 per month.  Is there interest in putting this on the agenda to discuss?  Let Pickard or Swartzentruber know if this should be an agenda item.

Business Manager Swartzentruber communicated that the first quarter ESSER III reimbursement requests were made and that $625,500-plus was submitted for reimbursement.  $139,000 remains and is committed to projects for the remainder of the 2022-2023 School Year.  There can be no new projects.

Business Manager Swartzentruber communicated that $750,000 and $1,100,000 have been invested in Treasuries through the Hills Bank Trust Investment Management Accounts following the established Board Policy guidelines.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, November 28, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: First Reading of Board Policy 802.4 Fixed Assets; Level I Investigators, and Superintendent interim evaluation.

Board Highlights

  • Gabrielle Frederick state that she is proud of Jake Snider for doing the first ever resolution motion.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:58 p.m.

October 24, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

October 24, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Marianne Schlabach called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 7:25 p.m.), Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 7:25 p.m.).

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight – FCS Global Cuisine Class

Glenda Seward, High School FCS Teacher, and a group of students to share on their experiences in the Global Cuisine Class. The class has a very international flavor and appeal.  The class formed groups that competed against other groups.  Their dishes were judged by various teachers and administrators.  They served the Board and group a Hazelnut cake. 

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue

Building Needs Updates – Superintendent Stone introduced the process that each Administrator used to canvas their building staff.  Each Principal shared about facilities needs for their building.  Superintendent Stone noted that he will gather these lists and incorporate the items into the plan.

  1. Middle School– Principal Rob Hruby noted the following additional suggested items by staff:  More classrooms and restrooms, more staff bathrooms, expanded office/staff rooms, gymnasium, remodel of the media center, small group meeting spaces, and remodel of the art classroom.
  2. High School– Principal Chuck Banks noted the following additional priorities: classrooms, auditorium, multi-purpose room remodel, new band and vocal area, parking lot, new gymnasium, staff bathrooms, classroom updating, and update of interior doors.
  3. East Elementary – Principal Greg Jergens noted the following priorities: the parking lot, outdoor lighting improvements, classrooms, special education rooms, small group meeting rooms, playground resurface/painting, new carpet in the library, handicap accessible doors, and sidewalks connecting all parts of the building.
  4. West Elementary– Principal Robin Foster noted the following additional priorities:  the parking lot with traffic flow, additional classrooms (Preschool rooms were mentioned), handicap accessible doors, handicap accessible playground, and preschool playground.
  5. Home School– Director Rachel Kerns noted the following additional priorities: expressed appreciation for their space; new air conditioning unit on the roof, new gymnasium floor, parking lot improvements (future); a parent classroom, update the kitchen, science room lab space, playground upgrade, fencing around the ball fields—remove or upgrade, and exterior doors upgrades.

Facility Long-term Prioritizing – The focus turned to prioritizing projects and next steps.  Superintendent Stone reiterated that the District leadership knows what is on the table.  There is more on the list than what can be done with current funding sources.  Once an initial prioritized list is established, then the cost estimates can be added to the list.  Then there is a need to work on what can be done in the next 14 months.

The Board moved to Business meeting at 7:00 p.m. and continued Work Session items after the Business portion of the meeting.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Jake Snider moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of October 10, 2022;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for October 24, 2022;

Open Enrollment Requests

Angela Herren requests Treyton Herren (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year as a Dual Enrolled student;

Personnel Items

Resignation of Brad Tornow, High School Assistant Baseball Coach, $2,901 per season, effective October 7, 2022;

Resignation of Melyssa Kleitsch, High School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour, effective October 10, 2022;

Fundraising Requests – None presented for approval;

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

Finance

Middle School Gym Floor

Superintendent Stone presented the recommendation to use FLR Sanders, Inc. as the vendor to replace the Middle School gym floor.  The replacement will be covered by insurance due to the floor flood issue in early June.  Their proposal came in at $100,900.  Additional questions were asked of them to assure completeness and comparability to the other two proposals.  The other two proposals were $109,800, and $114,450, respectively.  All three were comparable in scope.  The Board asked questions about the process and the vendors for understanding and clarification.

Jed Seward moved to approve accepting the proposal from FLR Sanders, Inc. to replace the Middle School Gym Floor at a price of $100,900.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Hills Bank Trust Investment Management Accounts Setup

Business Manager Swartzentruber reminded the Board that they approved the two account setup, one for the General Fund, and one for the SAVE Fund at the October 10st meeting.  Board President Pickard and Swartzentruber signed the account opening documents earlier this week.  The document provided for the Board’s review completes the process.  The document outlines the approach that Hills Bank will take in investment of the dollars the District Transfers to them.  Swartzentruber asked if there were any questions on the Philosophy document provided by the Hills Bank Trust Company.  No further action is needed.

Resolution for Limited English Proficiency Additional Allowable Growth – Resolution 10242221

Superintendent Stone reported that the Limited English Proficiency (LEP) Deficit for the 2021-2022 School Year was $7,664.64.  These are costs in excess of the Categorical Funding.  The LEP filing has been certified as required by the state before the September 15, 2022 deadline.  In order to be not be impacted by this deficit, a resolution for increased Allowable Growth for a negative LEP Balance is required to be filed with the School Budget Review Committee through the Iowa Department of Education.

Jeremy Pickard arrived at 7:25p.m. during this agenda item.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve Resolution 1024221 for additional allowable growth of $7,664.64 to cover the 2021-2022 LEP costs in excess of funding.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                               Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                               Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

MS Assistant Wrestling Coach and Girls Wrestling Coach

Superintendent Stone brought a recommendation for approval of a combined position of Middle School Wrestling Coach and Girls Wrestling Coach position to be paid on the same level as a Middle School Wrestling Head Coach. The Girls would have a 5-week extended season after January 1, 2023.  The Board asked questions for clarification.

Jeremy Pickard moved to approve the creation of a Middle School Assistant Wrestling Coach and Middle School Girl’s combined wrestling coach to be paid on the same scale as a Middle School Head Wrestling Coach.  Gabrielle Frederick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

The Board continued the Business Facility needs from the Work Session.

Facility Long-term Prioritizing – The discussion continued on the amount to be borrowed and the rate at which it could be paid off.  The Board asked for some illustrations on Pre-Levy and payoff of the bonds at varying levels.

Piper-Sandler Information – Business Manager Swartzentruber drew the Board’s attention to the 2-page illustration prepared by Piper-Sandler.  The total maximum available borrowing is $20,655,000 with building proceeds of just under $20,100,000.  The maximum available is stretched due to a split of the total borrowing over two years and interest only payment on the first two years of the larger amount and Interest only payments on the second issuance except for year 1 and year 21.  The interest rates at 4.75% and 5% on the two tranches are higher than what seen in the recent past, but are reflective of the current environment.  If/as the Board wants to go less than the maximum, additional scenarios may be needed.  The Board asked questions about the illustration for clarification.

Certified Enrollment Numbers – Superintendent Stone showed the Certified Enrollment Numbers for 2023 as of the October 1, 2022 count date.  Resident students have declined by 29.89 students.  With this level of decline the 101% Budget Guarantee Resolution will be needed.  Open Enrolled Students in are up 29.60 students.  While the numbers appear to offset each other, there is still concern as the Open Enrolled Students can be more volatile throughout the year due to changes in the law enacted in the last session.  The actual impact of revenue to educate students will not be known until SSA is finalized in the first quarter of 2023.

Softball Lights Update – Superintendent Stone provided an update on the Softball Lighting Project at the Middle School.  An on-site meeting with Ardent Lighting took place last week.  Work will most likely begin in November and December with the removal of some trees to create accessibility to the old lights and the new light placement.  Work to install the lights and the wiring will begin after the ground is frozen estimated to be in January.  There is confidence that the project will be completed in early Spring.

Iowa School Performance Profile – Superintendent Stone and the Administrators provided an update using the ISPP Accountability Data Summary for 2022.  The two Elementary Schools and the Virtual Academy received and Acceptable Rating and No Support Required.  The High School received a Commendable Rating with No Support Required.  The Middle School also received a Commendable Rating with some targeted emphasis for Students with Disabilities (IEP).

Student Learning

Closed Session – Student Behavior

The Board reviewed a Student Behavior situation.  It is preferred to be in closed session. 

Mary Allred moved to go into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5 subsection 1: To discuss whether to conduct a hearing or to conduct hearings to suspend or expel a student, unless an open session is requested by the student or a parent or guardian of the student if the student is a minor.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 7:55 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 8:14 p.m.

Mary Allred moved to uphold the suspension recommendation for Student A to be suspended from school for the rest of the Semester, and during that time, the student would be enrolled in the Virtual Academy from home.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.  Motion carried 7-0.

Work Session

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, November 14, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Annual Organizational Meeting, Ongoing discussion about the Facility Planning Process, Level I Investigators, Flexibility Transfer of HSAP Funds, and Gabrielle Frederick may present some ideas on the Superintendent Evaluation at the next meeting.   The second Meeting in November could be the Superintendent Evaluation.

Board Highlights – Nothing of significance was shared, though the Board expressed appreciation for Jeremy Pickard’s attendance in a busy week.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m.

 

October 10, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

October 10, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Marianne Schlabach called the meeting to order in the absence of President Jeremy Pickard.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 6:23 p.m.), Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Jeremy Pickard (arrived at 6:23 p.m.)

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, Frank Slabaugh, and Tyler Hotz.

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

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight

High School Chuck Banks introduced Jess Jones and Shawna Sieren, two of the four High School Math Teachers, who attended the National Science Conference.  The teachers provided an overview of the July conference in Chicago and the various learning opportunities.  The expressed their thanks for the ability to develop relationships between the Mid-Prairie teachers and the networking with other teachers at the conference.  Science Literacy was one of the most prevalent themes of the conference—Currency, Reliability, Accuracy, and Purpose.  They hope to bring these elements to the classroom.  They discussed on-line academic resources that can also be used in the classroom.  They concluded by discussing a few of the breakout workshops.  The Board asked questions for insights, and then thanked the teachers for the presentation and their work with students.

Pickard arrived during this agenda item.

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue

Facilities Data – Superintendent Stone introduced the Facilities Data gathered from Board members, the Administrator Team, the most recent Facilities Committee, and a group of staff members that also participated with the Facilities Committee.  The data gathering tool asked those to whom the inquiry was made to evaluate the priorities of the projects.  The goal is to begin to develop a comprehensive facility plan that includes current needs and future needs recognizing the limitations on funds that is currently the Districts reality.  It was noted that new items to be added to the list were not solicited in this phase.

Facility Long-term Prioritizing – The focus then turned to prioritizing the projects and next steps.  Stone asked for further clarification and feedback for additional projects that were not on the current list.  The Board noted the need to be more fact-finding.  It was expressed that there is some urgency in the short term needs and the focus to build the long-term plan.  It was suggested that the Administrative Team needs to review and reassess the needs and the priority of needs and bring some additional ideas of expanded areas of needs.

Pickard took the chair at 7 p.m.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

The Fine Arts Booster representatives shared about some urgent needs that are safety related for items in the Cafetorium/Student Center including the retractable seating, curtain, and additional other immediate needs.

Consent Items

Jake Snider moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of September 26, 2022;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for September 2022;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for October 10, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Marisa Tujlliani-Holtz requests Benjamin Lopiccalo (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Columbus Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Taylor and Drew Albright request Lakota Albright (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Nichole Jaspering requests Aven Jaspering (Grade 5) and Zayley Jaspering (Grade 3), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Mark Hostetler, High School Girls Head Track Coach, $5,616 per Season;

Resignation of Beth Reeves, High School Math Teacher, $63,108 per year, effective 12/02/2022;

Fundraising Requests – No requests are presented for approval;

Jed Seward seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

Second Reading of Graduation Requirements

President Pickard noted that Board Policy 505.5 passed on First Reading at the September 26, 2022, meeting.  A short summary of the proposed changes presented at the last meeting was provided.  They asked for any questions or further discussion.

Denise Chittick moved to approve changes to Board Policy 505.5 as proposed on Second Reading.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Student Appeal

Superintendent Stone introduced Activities Director, Tyler Hotz, and recommended the Board go into closed session to conduct a hearing of appeal to determine whether to suspend a student.  There are two students to be referred to as Student A and Student B.  There will be two closed sessions, one for each student.

Mary Allred moved to hold a closed session for Student A as provided in section 21.5(l)e of the open meetings law to conduct a hearing to determine whether to suspend or expel a student unless an open session is requested by the student or a parent or legal guardian of the student if the student is a minor.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 7:17 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 7:45 p.m.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to uphold the suspension recommendation for Student A as stated in closed session.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                                      Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

Mary Allred moved to hold a closed session for student B as provided in section 21.5(l)e of the open meetings law to conduct a hearing to determine whether to suspend or expel a student unless an open session is requested by the student or a parent or legal guardian of the student if the student is a minor.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - yes                                      Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach       - yes                                       Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 7-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 7:50 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 7:55 p.m.

Finance

Public Hearing on Softball Light Specifications at 7:15 p.m.

President Pickard opened the Public Hearing on the Softball Lights Specifications.  No one spoke.  Pickard closed the Public Hearing at 7:16 p.m. 

Softball Lights Bid Review

Denise Chittick moved to approve Softball Light Specifications as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Tad Morrow of Carl and Nelson Company was present to share the results of the bids received on September 29, 2022.  There were two bidders to submit bids.  Ardent Lighting Group’s bid for the project was $207,000.  Both bidders used MUSCO lighting materials in their bids.   Morrow discussed the review process for the bids and recommended that Ardent Lighting Group be awarded the contract based upon their bid and specifications review.  The Board asked questions for clarification on approach and date of completion of the work.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve awarding a contract to the Ardent Lighting Group LLC in the amount of $207,000 to complete the Softball Lighting project.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.  Motion carried 7-0.

Increase in Certified Substitute Staff Pay

Superintendent Stone introduced a recommendation to raise Substitute Teacher Pay from the current $135 per day to $150 per day effective October 16, 2022.  Substitute Teacher Pay was increased to $135 from $120 per day in November of 2017 and at that time all substitutes—teacher and support staff—were made immediately eligible to participate in IPERS.  Stone provided some background information on how the District’s current rate compares to surrounding districts.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding. 

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the increase in Teacher Substitute Pay to $150 per day effective on October 16, 2022.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Hills Bank Trust Investment Management Accounts Setup

Business Manager Swartzentruber noted that the account set up documents for two Investment Management Accounts are underway.  There will be two accounts.  One account will be for General Fund investments.  The other will be for the SAVE Fund.  Each will have approximately $1 million invested.  The amount in the Operating Fund will vary from time to time based upon the timing of funds received for operations.  The amount in the SAVE Fund will be the amount we are required to hold in escrow for the Revenue Bonds.  Investments will consist of Treasury Securities and Certificate of Deposit Investments with durations of 13 months or less and be laddered in their maturities in order to take advantage of liquidity and the current interest rate environment.  Account opening documents will need to be signed by the Board President and the Board Secretary.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the opening of two Investment Management Accounts with Hills Bank and Trust Company for the General Fund and the SAVE Fund.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0, Denise Chittick abstained.

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

There were no unfinished items from the Work Session section of the meeting.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

Swartzentruber reported the Audit Fieldwork for the 2022 Fiscal Year was conducted today.

Stone announced the vulnerability assessments are being completed by Homeland Security approved consultants.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, October 24, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include or are under consideration: Administrative priorities on the Facilities Needs and Assessment including some additional costs, LEP/ELL Board Resolution for additional Allowable Growth; Level I Investigators; Discussion of a Flexibility Transfer of HSAP Funds;

Board Highlights

  • Science presentation on the National Conference and the recognition of different levels of reading of the students.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:27 p.m.

September 26, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

September 26, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

Vice President Marianne Schlabach called the meeting to order in the absence of Jeremy Pickard, Board President.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Marianne Schlabach, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, and Jed Seward.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight

Superintendent Stone introduced Kaden Meader and recognized him for his accomplishments as he will join the Navy as a US Navy AIRR (Navy Air Rescue Swimmer).  This is an elite accomplishment as the US Navy employs around 346,000 men and women in it ranks.  The number of AIRR members are less than 350.  Meader is already participating in monthly Navy training sessions as he prepares for this assignment after graduation.  The motto of AIRR is “So others may live.”  The Board expressed appreciation for his work and accomplishments and wished him well.

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue

Superintendent Stone noted the Professional Learning Communities efforts that are going on within the District and asked the Administrators to report.  Administrators discussed the specific focus on student learning and collaborating on data and learning strategies.  The work is district-wide with emphasis building level teams.  This is a continuous cycle of collaboration and improvement.

Business Manager Swartzentruber discussed the use of Hills Bank Investment Management Account Arrangement within the Hills Bank Trust Department for short term investments.  He noted the rising interest rate environment makes this favorable to begin again.  He asked if the Board would like to see a presentation from Hills Trust Department.  It was thought that was not necessary, though a concept page/document may be a good step along with the account opening documents.

Superintendent Stone discussed the Emergency Readiness progress and the on-going documentation.

Middle School is finishing up the I-Ready diagnostics to help students with the learning plans.  This replaces the STAR assessment.  The Middle School Team is quite impressed with the new tool.  There will be 3 testing days throughout the year.

General Obligation Bonds

Superintendent Stone opened this conversation early as it is last on the Business Meeting Agenda Items and noted the assignment given by the Board. The minutes on this entire segment are recorded in the Business Session agenda items to keep the recorded minute in one place.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Jake Snider moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of September 12, 2022;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for September 26, 2022;

Open Enrollment Requests

Christine Brito requests Theresa Taylor (Grade 11), attend Mid-Prairie Virtual Academy from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Andrea Farrier requests Rebecca Farrier (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie as a High School dual enrolled from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Greg and Mandy Lybeck request Isaac Lybeck (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie as a High School dual enrolled from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Wilson and Wendy Paiva request Madeline Paiva (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie as a High School dual enrolled from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Randy and Kristen Rempel request Jace Rempel (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie as a High School dual enrolled from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Rachel Bartachek requests Jordan Bartachek (Grade 9), Quinn Bartachek (Grade 4), and Serena Bartachek (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from BGM Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Michelle Haveman requests Ezra Haveman (Grade 10) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Abigail Drost requests Deborah Drost (Grade 6) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Work Agreement issued to Melyssa Kleitsch, High School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour;

Fundraising Requests

Fine Arts Boosters request approval to raise funds through the raffle of a finished hog between September 26th and November 5th with funds to be used for supplies for the Fine Arts program;

Purchase in Excess of $25,000

Walsh Door proposal of $34,300 to replace the doors and glass in the main entrance and vestibule at West Elementary School.

Mary Allred seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 4-0.

Student Learning

Graduation Requirements

Chuck Banks, High School Principal, noted a change in the graduation requirements for the post-secondary occupation graduation requirements in Board Policy 505.5.  The Career Immersion Leadership Assessment (CILA) is no longer available or offered.  He also noted removal of the paragraph starting with “Starting with 2016…” as the testing elements may no longer apply or be offered.

Denise Chittick moved to approve changes to Board Policy 505.5 as proposed on First Reading.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 4-0.

Finance

IASB Annual Conference Registration

Business Manager Swartzentruber reported that 4 of the 7 Board Members have contacted him to register for the November 16-18 Conference.  2 are planning to attend all 3 days and 2 are attending November 17th, only.  We would like to register all Board Members simultaneously, if possible. 

Fiscal Year 2022 Annual Treasurer’s Report

Business Manager Swartzentruber presented the Fiscal Year 2022 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, 2022, due date.  Net Operating Fund Balance increased by $271,000, compared to $236,000 for the previous fiscal year.  Swartzentruber discussed the reasons for the decrease in Fund Balance for the Management Fund.  He noted increases to the Student Activity Fund, SAVE Fund, and PPEL Fund.  He noted specifically the positive fund balance in the Nutrition Fund as the first of its kind in at least 15 years.  Federal assistance program due to COVID that ended at June 30, 2022 has provided significant breathing room to the Nutrition Fund.  While we cannot expect that trend to continue, we are now in a position of strength from which to operate going forward.

Denise Chittick moved to accept the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Treasurers Report as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 4-0.

Special Education Deficit Spending Authority Resolution

Superintendent Stone and Business Manager 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, 2022.  The reported deficit was $69,462.55 for last year as compared to $271,387.11 for the previous year.  The request is rounded up to $75,000 to allow for any upward adjustment that might be found during the Department of Education’s year-end review.  The deficit is lower than last year due to the Tuition-out students being significantly fewer than the previous year.

Denise Chittick moved to approve Resolution 0926221 to authorize the Superintendent to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for additional allowable growth of up to $75,000 to cover the deficit in Special Education funding from the year ending June 30, 2022.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                      - absent               Jeremy Pickard                  - absent

                          Marianne Schlabach        - yes                    Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                 - yes

Motion carried 4-0.

Timing on the General Obligation Bonds and Priority Setting

From the Work Session, Business Manager Swartzentruber presented on a Bond Thumbnail analysis of potential bond proceeds that would be available and answered questions as well as showed some of the variables with interest rates and taxable valuation growth assumptions.

Superintendent Stone then reported on the feedback from the last Facilities Committee process.  Stone noted some of the specifics that were communicated to him on items that might need to be smoothed out on the next project cycle.  Communication of the short-term plan and the long-term elements of the plan is needed. He noted some options of how to proceed with either starting over with a new assessment through fresh eyes, however, the prioritized lists of the last cycles are very detailed in a way that the work completed previously can be built upon and expanded.  Superintendent Stone shared some preliminary results of the feedback from the previous Facilities Committee Survey and the pointed out the items completed or targeted for completion with the current Revenue Bond proceeds.  The Board discussed the information and next steps based on the information provided. Stone suggested that there be some priorities set for both current and various points in the future.  The Board discussed identifying additional priorities from the Administrators to add to the list.  A few items were suggested for the list by the High School, West Elementary, Home School Education Center administrators for discussion.  Stone will clean the list up and add items to the current list, then take steps with the Board as well as gather/regather a Facilities Committee.  The specifics of this process will need to be discussed with and by the Board.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

Business Manager Swartzentruber announced that the external Audit RFP is not needed until September of 2024 as the audit agreement with Nolte, Cornman, and Johnson was extended for three years.  The next RFP will be five years from Fiscal Year 2025 to Fiscal Year 2029.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, October 10, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include:  Bond Discussion continues.

Board Highlights

  • The Home School Assistance Program’s Mums sale was noted as impressive.
  • Positive productive conversation this evening was noted as invigorating.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m.

September 12, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

Mid-Prairie Middle School Media Center / Library, Kalona, IA  52247

September 12, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Denise Chittick.  Motion carried 7-0.

Hawk Highlight

Kaitlyn Dodds, District Librarian, shared about her July 2022 trip to the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. and the experiences for the week.  A highlight was using the TPS Network for access to pictures and other media.  She was one of 30 School Librarians from around the country that were selected to participate.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 6:20 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of August 22, 2022;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for August 2022 and June 2022 Second iteration with Accruals;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for September 12, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Nolan and Kimberly Decker request Nevaeh Chrzan-Decker (Grade 11), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Pamela Vercande requests Caleb Vercande (Grade 12), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Julie Tweedt requests Maverich Tweedt (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Amanda Mize requests Isaiah Mize (Grade 5) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from College Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Julie Spears requests Joshua Spears (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Columbus Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Karin Swanson requests Moriah Swanson (Grade 10) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Diane Berryman requests Jayce Berryman (Grade 4) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Travis and Lindsey Meade request Addison Meade (Grade 1), Colton Meade (Grade 3), and Gavin Meade (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Solon Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Melinda Hammes-Buch requests Gracelyn Hammes (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Kathrine Roth, Middle School Special Education Teacher, $48,624 per annum;

Contract issued to Daniel Hershberger, Middle School Assistant 8th Grade Football Coach, $2,045 per annum;

Contract issued to Derek Kalm, Middle School Assistant Volleyball Coach, $1,984 per season;

Contract issued to Truman Shetler, High School Girls Varsity Soccer Head Coach, $4,339 per season;

Fall Volunteer Coaches

                Kevin Cortum, High School Football Coach, Up to $1,800 from Football Resale;

                Dolfi Kalm, High School Volleyball Coach, Up to $500 from Volleyball Resale;

                Zeb Evans, High School Volleyball Coach, Up to $2,000 from Volleyball Resale;

                Dylan Wertz, High School Football Coach, Up to $1,800 from Football Resale;

                Derek Yoder, High School Football Coach, Up to $1,800 from Football Resale;

                Lynnette Poll, High School Cross Country Coach, Up to $1,800 from Cross Country Resale;

Fundraising Requests

FFA requests approval to raise funds through the sale of fruit/meat/cheese/popcorn from October 10th to November 4th to be used for FFA activities throughout the school year;

FCCLA requests approval to raise funds through the sale of Homecoming T-shirts from September 12th to September 21st to be used for community, student body, and leadership projects throughout the school year;

Boys and Girls Basketball requests approval to raise funds through hosting youth basketball clinics on November 5th, 12th, and 19th funds raised will be used to pay volunteer coaches, purchase team apparel, coach apparel, and purchase basketballs;

Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

Second Reading of Employee Owned Therapy Dog Policy Header(s)

President Pickard reviewed the proposed Policy 606.9 Employee-Owned Therapy Dog Policy along with Documents 606.9E1 Professional Dog Handler Ethics, and 606.9E2 Employee-Owned Professional Therapy Dogs Checklist that passed on First Reading at the August 22, 2022 Board Meeting.  Stone and President Pickard ask if there were additional questions.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve on Second Reading Board Policy 606.9 and exhibits 1 and 2 as presented (as changed).  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

FFA Students attending the FFA National Conference in Indianapolis, IN

Superintendent Stone noted that Elsa Schmidt plans to take seven students to the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 24th to 29th.  As this is an event that is outside the state of Iowa, the Board needs to approve the students and sponsors travel to this annual event. 

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve students and sponsors travel from October 24, 2022 to October 29, 2022, to the FFA National Conference event in Indianapolis, Indiana.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

FFA Roadside Cleanup on Sunday, September 25th at 2pm

Superintendent Stone announced the intentions of the Mid-Prairie FFA Club to have a Roadside Cleanup Day on Sunday, September 25th at 2 p.m.

Finance

IASB Annual Conference Registration

Superintendent Stone and Business Manager Swartzentruber alerted the Board to the upcoming IASB Convention from November 16 to 18 at the Iowa Events Center.  The Board is encouraged to attend.  Swartzentruber needs to know who is attending by October 14th so that he can register Board Members and arrange transportation.

Timing of the General Obligation Bonds and Setting Priorities

Superintendent Stone noted the agenda item is at the request of Board Member, Jake Snider.  The timing of the next planning process may be upon us.  General Obligation Bond borrowing capacity continues to grow as the District continues the pre-levy and early payments on the 2014 General Obligation Bonds.  Discussion about forming a Facility Committee that includes public, staff, parents, students is to be considered.  The Facility Committee worked in 2019 and into 2020 and then was tabled due to COVID.  The Board expressed interest in moving the conversation forward with the formation of a committee and creation of a timeline of action.  There was also discussion about seeking feedback from past committee members in different ways.

Bus Bid Results and Recommendations

Business Manager Swartzentruber, along with Transportation Director Teresa Hartley directed the Board’s attention to Bid Results for 2 Diesel Powered buses for the bids opened on September 1st.  Hoglund Bus Sales presented the lowest gross of $258,000 and net bid of $251,000 for two buses, each would be half of the total.  The other two bidders were $10,000 higher than Hoglund.  The recommendation would be to move ahead with ordering the two buses and trading in Buses #5 and #18.  Without the trade-ins, the value of the buses would be $129,000 each.  After these purchases, the fleet would be pretty well up to date and the District may be able to suspend purchase for a year in the 2023-2024 fiscal year.  It has been a long range plan to have our fleet as up to date as possible and would be achieved with the purchase of these two buses.  Delivery of these buses would be expected in September/October of 2023.  The buses purchased for this year are expected for delivery in late October or early November of this year.  The Board asked questions about the current fleet. Mark English, Transportation Maintenance Engineer for the District answered questions related to the technical side.  The Board asked if there was a way to check on trade versus sell them outright.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to accept the bid from Hoglund Bus Sales in the amount not to exceed $258,000 for the purchase of two new yellow school with the recognition that the price, net of trade-in value of two buses would be $251,000 if Hoglund would not agree to work with the District on a sell versus trade.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Set a Public Hearing for the Softball Field Lights Project

Business Manager Swartzentruber drew the Board’s Attention to the two documents on the Board Document Site.  The first is the Advertisement for Bid.  The second is the Notice of Public Hearing for October 10, 2022, at 7:15 p.m.  Both documents have been in the paper and set to run on the weeks of September 8th and September 15th.  Carl A. Nelson has pushed the Advertisement for Bid and specifications of the projects out to the public and specific bidders that would provide the service.  A Pre-bid meeting is planned for September 15th and the Bid Opening is scheduled for September 29th at 2pm at Central Office.  It is intended that the bids would be reviewed after the Public Hearing on October 10th.

Marianne Schlabach moved to set a Public Hearing for the Specifications for the Softball Field Project for Monday, October 10, 2022 at 7:15 pm. In the Community Room at the Mid-Prairie Central Office.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Second Reading of the Bond Disclosure Policy 704.7 and the Post Issuance Compliance Regulation for Tax-Exempt Obligations 704.2RI

Board President Pickard and Business Manager Swartzentruber noted that the two documents were passed on First Reading at the August 22, 2022, meeting. These were required as part of the issuance of the Revenue Bonds and future bond offerings of the District by the District’s Bond Counsel.

Bond Disclosure Policy 704.7

Again, this policy is to assure that the items in the policy are known and followed.  The Policy language is standard and written by Ahlers Cooney, the District’s Bond Legal Counsel.  Questions were welcomed from the Board for further clarification and understanding.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve on Second Reading the Bond Disclosure Policy 704.7 as presented.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Post-Issuance Compliance Regulation for Tax-Exempt Obligations 704.2.R1

Again, this regulation is required due to some changes in the original Section 7 on Advance Refunding.  Swartzentruber serves as Treasurer of the District and works through Piper-Sandler in its capacity as District Financial and Bond Advisor to assure compliance.

Mary Allred moved to approve the Post-Issuance Compliance Regulation 704.2 RI on Second Reading as presented.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

Gabrielle Frederick referred to evaluations of Superintendent—more frequently, and of Board and Roles—self evaluations.  Superintendent sets goals.

Frederick also would like to discuss the grant process at Mid-Prairie for accessing grants as it would be great to be educated on the District’s process.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 26, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: 2022 Treasurer’s Report, Special Education Deficit Resolution, and Discussion of the Audit RFP.

Work Session

Hawk Highlights

Building Tour of MP Middle School

The Board toured the Middle School building led by Rob Hruby, Principal, and Gary Dawson, Lead Custodian, to see the changes made over the Summer.

Building Tour of MP East Elementary

The Board toured the Middle School building led by Greg Jergens, Principal, and Mike TeBockhorst, Lead Custodian, to see the changes made over the Summer.

Building Tour of MP Home School Education Center

The Board toured the Home School Education Center building led by Rachel Kerns, Home School Director, and Mark Kleese, Lead Custodian, to see the changes made over the Summer.

Board Highlight

The Board noted highlights from this evening’s meeting.  They are:  Tours of the buildings with the changes and updates from staff; Conversations in the Business Meeting are appreciated; Kudos to Rob Hruby and Middle School Team for the new parking lot configuration

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.

August 22, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

August 22, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, and Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Also Present:  Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

Superintendent Stone was absent due to family obligations.

Mary Allred moved to adopt the agenda as presented.  Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.  Motion carried 7-0.

Hawk Highlight

Principals Foster, Jergens, Kerns, Banks, Slabaugh, and Hruby shared the impressions and experience at the recent PLC (Professional Learning Communities) Training held in Minnesota.  The Administrative Team is going to utilize the resources for learning together and then take the learning and ideas to each buildings.  Fifteen staff attended and came back with a passion to implement the learnings to the District. The Board asked questions for understanding.

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 6:20 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items.  The change of FTE for Carrie Schweitzer was noted as a consent item by Business Manager, Swartzentruber.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of August 8, 2022;

Finance Report

None presented at this time;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for August 22, 2022 and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Susan Ray requests Eli Ray (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Charles Gent and Trisha Parizek request Jacob Gent (Grade 1) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Shawn & Jennifer Sandersfeld request Anton Sandersfeld (Grade 10), Otto Sandersfeld (Grade 6), and Reiner Sandersfeld (Grade 8) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Tyler and Sadie Woodley request Alexander Woodley (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Samantha Meyer request Camille Meyer (Kindergarten) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Melanie Steinhart, 8th Grade Volleyball Coach, $2,170.00 per annum;

Proposal to Increase Carrie Schweitzer, Middle School FCS from 0.5 FTE to 0.75 FTE for the 2022-2023 School Year;

Work Agreement issued to Stephanie Tardy, High School Paraprofessional $14.67 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Hannah Glick, East Elementary Paraprofessional $14.67 per hour;

Resignation of Sandra Popejoy, High School Paraprofessional, $14.76 per hour, effective August 31, 2022;

Fundraising Requests

High School Baseball requests approval to raise funds through the 3rd Annual Can Drive on October 15, 2022, to purchase equipment, pay volunteer coaches and purchase coaches apparel;

Mary Allred seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 7-0.

Student Learning

Second Reading of Board Policy Series 100’s and 400’s

Board President Pickard directed the Board’s attention to the Chapter 100 and Chapter 400 Policies that were reviewed and portions amended by the Board with passage of the First Reading on August 8th. Pickard asked for questions, if any.

Denise Chittick moved to approve on Second Reading Board Policy Series 100 as presented.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve on Second Reading Board Policy Series 400 as presented.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Employee-Owned Therapy Dog Policy (New) – 605.9

Board President Pickard introduced the agenda item and referenced new proposed Policy 606.9 Employee-Owned Therapy Dog Policy along with Documents 606.9E1 Professional Dog Handler Ethics, and 606.9E2 Employee-Owned Professional Therapy Dogs Checklist.  These policies are similar to those used by Ottumwa Community Schools.  This is brought to the Board due to an employee inquiry for bringing their Therapy Dog to their building.  The Board Discussed the Policy.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve on First Reading Board Policy 606.9 and exhibits 1 and 2 as presented (as changed).  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Finance

Bond Disclosure Policy 704.7

Business Manager Swartzentruber updated the Board on this Policy.  We are required to make the primary (initial) offering and the secondary (on-going) annual disclosures on bond securities the District issues or guarantees under the Federal Securities laws, including anti-fraud provisions.  Piper-Sandler, the District Financial and Bond Advisor assists us in assuring this disclosures are made by the state deadlines.  This policy is to assure that this is known and followed.  The Policy language is standard and written by Ahlers Cooney, the District’s Bond Legal Counsel.  This will be Board Policy 704.7 according to Ahlers & Cooney.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve on First Reading the Bond Disclosure Policy 704.7 as presented.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

Post-Issuance Compliance Regulation for Tax-Exempt Obligations 704.2.R1

Business Manager Swartzentruber updated the Board on this regulation as it needs to be reapproved due to some changes in the original Section 7 on Advance Refunding.  Swartzentruber serves as Treasurer of the District and again work through Piper-Sandler in its capacity as District Financial and Bond Advisor to assure compliance.  This will be Board Policy 704.2.R1 according to Ahlers & Cooney.   Swartzentruber discussed elements of tax-exempt obligations to be followed including interest earnings and arbitrage, building for tax-exempt purposes that includes no leases or agreements with other entities or special use provisions for the buildings being built with these bonds.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the Post-Issuance Compliance Regulation on First Reading for Tax-Exempt Obligations as presented.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 7-0.

IASB National Presence-Potential By-Laws Amendment

Board Member, Gabrielle Frederick, reported an upcoming change in By-Laws for IASB to the Board where the IASB changes the national organization from the current NSBA—2% of IASB dues—to the new one, CASBA—1% of IASB due.  The Board discussed the issues and noted a focus on local issues versus national.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 12, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Mid-Prairie Middle School Media Center.  Agenda items to include:  Second Reading on 606.9, 704.7 and 704.2.R1; visits of the Middle School, East Elementary, and Home School Education Center; Audit RFP; and other items tabled from the previous meeting of August 8th.

Work Session

Building Tour of MP High School

The Board toured the High School Building led by Chuck Banks, Principal, to see the changes made over the Summer and see the preparation for first day of school.

Building Tour of MP West Elementary

The Board toured the High School Building led by Robin Foster, Principal, and Jordan TeBockhorst, Lead Custodian for West Elementary, to see the changes made over the Summer and see the preparation for first day of school.

Board Highlight

Board Members shared a highlight from the meeting.  Items mentioned included:

  • Appreciation for learning about the PLC training and process for the upcoming school year.
  • The tours of the two buildings to see the year over year changes and to see the pride for the building taken by the staff.  Specifically noted, were the MP Skins on the windows for added security
  • Appreciation for the discussion of the use of Therapy Dogs and the desire to add to the capacity of this program.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, September 12, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Mid-Prairie Middle School Media Center.  Agenda items to include:

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:00 p.m. at West Elementary School.

 

August 8, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

August 8, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach,

Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Gabrielle Frederick and Jed Seward.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

WORK SESSION

Hawk Highlight

Superintendent Stone introduced the Hawk Highlight idea and shared the Administrative Team went to SAI last week to get to know each other and learn with each other at the event.  Noted the breakout session were outstanding.  Seventeen staff are in Minneapolis this week for PLC training.

Schematic Design Presentation by Carl A. Nelson and Shive-Hattery

Tad Morrow and Chris Smith of Carl A Nelson Company (CANCO) Project Manager and Natalie Oppedal, Tim Fehr and Abbey Foster of Shive-Hattery Architects presented the Schematic Design and Budget Report to the Board for the Middle School, East Elementary, Softball Lights and High School Track projects that are included in the Revenue Bonds sold in July.  Included were the overview of the Schematic Design Drawings by Oppedal, Review of Estimated/Budgeted costs, the timeline and next steps in the design process, Track replacement status and Softball Lights replacement status.  The Wrestling room project was not addressed per the timeline.  The Board asked questions for clarification on the schematic drawings and also about timing of the projects.

Tad Morrow presented the overall project budget through the Schematic Design Phase of $12,667,000 is currently estimated to cost $12,346,000, or under by $220,000.  However, alternatives were noted in the presentation for items that would add additional cost to the estimated costs and could be additional savings.  Shive-Hattery and CANCO discussed the geothermal payback increasing from a 10 year to a 20 year payback on investment.  The Board discussed the pros and cons of geothermal versus non-geothermal options on only on the additions.  The Board asked Shive-Hattery and CANCO to look closely at the non-geothermal options.

The schedule for construction was reviewed with the Board where the target date for bids to be let would be February of 2023.  Construction would be mobilized to begin in the Spring of 2023 on the Middle School and East Elementary with the substantial completion on the buildings to be late Summer of 2024.  Softball lights are targeted for completion in early Spring of 2023, and High School Track replacement project is targeted for late Summer to Fall of 2023.  The schedule for the Wrestling Room is still to be determined and is dependent on the bid process for the two educational additions and renovations.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Moved to the end of the meeting in the Work Session

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve the following consent items in this section.  Superintendent Stone noted a transfer of Sue Kleese to Middle School Nurse from High School Paraprofessional not a consent item, and also the existing staff that approved for 9 Apprenticeship seats in the Personnel section, below.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of July 7, 2022, July 11, 2022, and July 14, 2022;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for July 2022 and second iteration of June 30, 2022 with initial accruals;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for August 8, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Michelle Pacha requests Logan Pacha (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Clear Creek Amana Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Jared and Megan Holmes request Kenna Holmes (Grade 2), Kestyn Holmes (Grade 5), and Kinley Holmes (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Cody & Tanja Hughes request Jayce Hughes (Grade 1) and Liliana Hughes (Grade 2), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Amanda Kron requests Adalyn Kron (Grade 7) and Remington Kron (Grade2), attend Mid-Prairie from Highland Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

 Emily Ross requests Travis Ray (Grade 7), attend Mid-Prairie from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Jerrica Morgan requests Miya Ford (Grade 1), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Kelby Kiefer requests Kinzlee Kiefer (Grade 8) and Kylar Kiefer (Grade 6), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Jessica Kelchen requests Joseph Kelchen (Grade 7) and Owen Kelchen (Grade 4), attend Mid-Prairie from Washington Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Whitney Christensen requests Jessa Christensen (Kindergarten) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Shannon Rahde requests Ezekiel Rahde (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Meaghan Cahill requests Tyler Riether (Grade 4) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Tangier Suddeth requests Elaine Suddeth (Kindergarten) and Ayla Suddeth (Kindergarten) attend Washington Community School District from Mid-Prairie;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Chris Kern, HS Physical Education Teacher 0.5 FTE First Half of Year, $13,708 per annum;

Contract issued to Emestina Hernandez-Zudell, 5th Grade Teacher, $70,708 per annum;

Contract issued to Sue Schweinfurth, Bus Driver, $24.67 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Tobi Anderson, Middle School General Cook, $14.56 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Grace Beatty, Middle School General Cook, $14.56 per hour;

 

Professional Partners

Mackenzie Kos, MP West, $1,000 per annum;

Erin Cavanagh, MPHS, $1,000 per annum;

Wendy Allen, MPMS, $1,000 per annum;

Apprenticeship Program Participants – Hiring Recognition by requirement of the Apprenticeship Program

Justin Barthelman, MPHS                              Kaytlin Chalupa, MP West

Shelby Cook, MPMS                                       Katy Debler, MP East

Elisabeth Harris, MPMS                                 Alyssa Hershberger, MP East

Allyson Swartzentruber, MPMS                     Kristen Thomas, MPHS

Cassie Wolinsky, MP West

Resignation of Chris Tyler, HS Girls Head Track Coach, $5,189 per annum, effective July 26, 2022;

Resignation of Kathryn Schneider, MS Softball Coach, $1,827 per season, effective 7/28/2022;

Fundraising Requests – No requests submitted;

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

Student Learning

First Reading of Board Policy Series 100’s and 400’s

Superintendent Stone directed the Board’s attention to the Chapter 100 and Chapter 400 Policies that were reviewed and portions amended by the Board over the past 2 months of meetings as shared documents.  Changes made are identified.  Approval of all are necessary as part of the ongoing schedule of policy reviews as required by the State of Iowa.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve on First Reading Board Policy Series 100 and 400 as presented.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Second Reading Board Policy 203 Board Conflict of Interest

Superintendent Stone and Board President Pickard noted the Board Policy 203 on Board Conflict of Interest was approved on First Reading at the July 11, 2022 meeting and reviewed the need to change this policy to meet the new limits due to a change in the law during the last Iowa Legislative session.  The threshold of earnings for a School Board member as related to conflict of interest with the District has been raised to $20,000.

Jake Snider moved to approve the amendment upon Second Reading Board Policy 203 Conflict of interest with the new limit of $20,000 as signed into law on March 23, 2022.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Finance

Public Hearing – 7:15p.m. – Bus Specifications

Board President Pickard opened the Public Hearing for School Bus Specifications.  No one spoke.  The Public Hearing closed at 7:16 p.m. 

Jake Snider moved to approve the bus specifications as presented and to put the specifications for 2 School Buses out to bid with a due date of September 1, 2022.  Marianne Schlabach seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

Bank Depository Resolution

Business Manager Swartzentruber and Superintendent Stone presented the resolution in recognition that it was passed on June 13, 2022 in advance of the funds to be received when the Revenue Bonds closed in July. This is now the annual Depository Resolution required in August.

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

 

                                             Location of         Maximum Balance           Maximum balance in

Depository name              Home Office       effect under prior             effect under this              

___________________  __________        resolution                           resolution                  .                                  

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

Hills Bank                            Hills                   12,000,000                         25,000,000

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

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

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

 

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve 08082202 as presented reading from the resolution. Mary Allread seconded the motion.

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

                           Jed Seward                      - absent               Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                           Marianne Schlabach        - yes                    Jake Snider                        - yes

                           Denise Chittick                  - abstained

Motion carried 4-0 with Denise Chittick abstaining.

Approval of the Schematic Design Plan

Superintendent Stone and Board President Pickard noted the presentation from the Carl A Nelson Company and Shive-Hattery teams during this meeting’s Work Session.  The next step in the process is to direct the two outside teams to move on the time line into the Design Development Phase of the projects as stipulated and related to the 2022 Revenue Bond proceeds.  The current budget estimate at the end of the Schematic Design phase is $12,346,000.

Denise Chittick moved to approve the Schematic Design plan as discussed and to move to the Design Development Phase of the project.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 5-0.

District Contribution towards the Baseball Field Renovation

President Pickard noted that a group of baseball parents and supporters have started a fundraiser to raise funds to address concerns about the condition of the baseball field with backstop, field drainage concerns, and other improvements.  The total project is estimated to be $338,000.  Private donations currently stand at $85,000, with Athletic Boosters contributing $30,000 over two years.  The District has committed $20,000 in matching funds over two years per the existing matching fund policy and amounts.  Additionally, the group plans to submit a WCRF grant request in the current grant cycle for $150,000.  No motion is needed at this time as the matching funds policy is already in place.  Pickard asked for questions.  No further questions were asked.

WCRF Application Resolution

Superintendent Stone recommends one grant request for the funding round that ends August 25, 2022.  It is the “Mid-Prairie Field of Dreams” request of $150,000 with a total estimated project cost of $338,000.  The project will complete a renovation and upgrade of the High School Baseball field using a variety of funding sources as stated in the previous minuted item.

Marianne Schlabach moved to approve Resolution 08082201 for the WCRF Grant Application as presented “Mid-Prairie Field of Dreams" grant for approximately $150,000 on a total estimated project cost of $338,000.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.

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

                          Jed Seward                        - absent              Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach          - yes                    Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - yes

Motion carried 5-0.

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Moved to the end of the meeting in the Work Session

Chuck Banks talked about the featured speaker at SAI who authored the Book “Water Your Bamboo”.  He was very encouraged by the message.

Business Manager Swartzentruber reported on mileage rates for employees at the IRS rate of $0.585 from $0.45 per the First Reading of Policy 401.07.  He also discussed whether the $1.25 per mile for charged for use of buses needs to be increased to $1.75 or $2.00 per mile for the new school year due to increased costs of fuel and operations.  While the latter is not in Board Policy, Administration wants to create awareness that this is being considered.

Closed Session

Discuss the Purchase or Sale of Real Estate

Mary Allred moved to enter into 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.  Seconded by Marianne Schlabach.

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

                          Jed Seward                       - absent               Jeremy Pickard                  - yes

                          Marianne Schlabach         - yes                    Jake Snider                        - yes

                          Denise Chittick                  - yes

Motion carried 5-0.

The Board entered Closed Session at 8:56 p.m.

The Board exited Closed Session at 9:03p.m.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 22, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: a formal Board picture will be taken at 6pm, Building Project update from Summer Projects, Bond Disclosure Policy, Post-Issuance Compliance Regulation for Tax-Exempt Obligations, Discuss the RFP needed for Independent Audit for FY2023 and beyond (September), IASB by-laws Change Discussion, Buildings Walk Through with Custodians (September), and presentations from various departments and programs across the District (throughout the year).

Board Member Highlight

Superintendent Stone encouraged the Board to share one highlight from the evening’s meeting.  Start on a positive and end on a positive.  Items shared included – Board members recognized and appreciate Jake Snider’s increasing activity with motions and seconds, they expressed appreciation for the work of CANCO and Shive-Hattery, especially in the presentation this evening and the direction of the project, and appreciation was noted for the discussion and questions asked of each other and the presenters at the Board table this evening.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 9:12 p.m.

July 14, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District           

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

July 14, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  None.

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber

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

Business Meeting

Finance

Schematic Design Presentation for Middle School and East Elementary

Carl A. Nelson Company personnel and Shive-Hattery personnel provided the Board with an update and current overview on the Schematic Design Process and a timeline of projects.  August 8th is the date of the Schematic Design Presentation on the Middle School and East Elementary will be made to the Board.  After the presentation, the Board will process and provide direction so the next phase of the project can proceed.

Work Session

Board Development Training

Tammi Drawbaugh, IASB Consultant, led the Board discussion and facilitated a number of interactive exercises to challenge the Board on vision with focus on Governance level thinking.  Drawbaugh continued to focus on the differences of Governance versus Management, and the definition of near term and long term success factors that the Board can reach for in the present and into the future.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:31 p.m.

July 11, 2022

Mid-Prairie Community School District

Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

July 11, 2022 – 6:15 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present:   Mary Allred, Denise Chittick, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Marianne Schlabach.

Also Present:  Brian Stone, Jeff Swartzentruber, Chuck Banks, Robin Foster, Rob Hruby, Greg Jergens, Rachel Kerns, Amy Shalla, and Frank Slabaugh.

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

WORK SESSION

Facility Updates

Superintendent Stone shared a brief update of the stage of the buildings and the various Summer projects to date.  Significant progress is being made on the special projects and on the preparations for the first day of school.

Board Policy Review – Continuation of Series 400

Superintendent Stone led the Board through the latter sections of the Series 400 Board Policies, starting at 402.2 with intentions to complete the Series 400 at this meeting.  This review continued after the Business portion of the meeting.

Board Policy 203 Board Conflict of Interest – Moved to the Business portion of the meeting.

Board Member and Administrator Dialogue – Tabled until the next meeting

BUSINESS MEETING

Public Forum– 7:00 p.m.

No one spoke.

Consent Items

Superintendent Stone noted that Daniel Hershberger is being transferred to Full Time at the Middle School to teach Physical Education.  He was at 0.8 FTE shared between the Middle School and High School.

Mary Allred moved to approve the following consent items.

Minutes of Previous Meetings

The minutes of June 27, 2022 and July 7, 2022;

Finance Report

The Finance Report for June 2022 with recognition that this is the cash basis report and will be modified over the next two months as year end information becomes available and measurable/accrued back to June 2022;

Payment of Bills

The bills as listed for July 11, 2022; and Prepaid Bills;

Open Enrollment Requests

Millard Fisher and Ashley Cory request Tabitha Fisher (Grade 8), attend Mid-Prairie from Keota Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Jessica Mumford requests Greyson Bunting (Kindergarten), attend Mid-Prairie from English Valleys Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Whitney Christenson requests Bethany Christenson (Grade 2) attend Mid-Prairie’s Home School Assistance Program from Iowa City Community School District for the 2022-23 School Year;

Personnel Items

Contract issued to Jeanne Wagner, High School English Teacher, $58,969 per annum;

Contract issued to Lisa Helmuth, HS Fall Musical Assistant Director, $2,083 per annum;

Contract issued to Lisa Helmuth, HS Spring Play Assistant Director, $2,083 per annum;

Contract issued to Ron Swartzendruber, 7th Grade Girls Basketball Coach, $3,276 per annum;

Work Agreement issued to Remington Amelon, High School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Ashlyn Gugel, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour;

Work Agreement issued to Karissa Huggman, Middle School Paraprofessional, $14.67 per hour;

Resignation of Tammy Molone, East Elementary Paraprofessional, $14.18 per hour, effective July 7, 2022;

Fundraising Requests – None presented for approval;

Gabrielle Frederick seconded the consent items.  Motion carried 1-0 (Jeremy Pickard abstained).

Student Learning

2022 2023 IASB Legislative Priorities

Board President Pickard noted the initial discussion at last Board Meeting and led a discussion on the Legislative Priories list provide by IASB.  Previous year priorities chosen included:  Mental Health, Area Education Agencies, Teacher Recruitment and Licensure, Supplemental State Aid, and Bond Issues.   The Board Members continued to provide their input for the legislative priories to include:

  • 8. Mental Health – Supports Efforts to establish comprehensive community mental health systems to offer presentative and treatment services and school mental health programs;
  • 10. Area Education Agencies – Supports full funding of the area education agencies to provide essential services in a cost-effective manner to school districts;
  • 16.  Teacher Recruitment and Licensure – Supports additional tools to attract individuals to the teaching profession, especially for teacher shortage areas;
  • 20. Supplemental State Aid – Supports setting supplemental state aid at a rate that sufficiently supports local districts’ efforts to plan, create, and sustain world-class schools;
  • 23. Bond Issues – Supports allowing school bond issued to be passed by a simple majority vote, as well as supports authority to levy a combination of property taxes and income surtaxes to pay the indebtedness, and clarification that revenue bonds do not count toward the 5 percent statutory limit;

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the legislative priorities as noted above for the 2022-2023 Legislative Year and submit to IASB.  Jed Seward seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

First Reading Board Policy 203 Board Conflict of Interest

Superintendent Stone and Board President Pickard noted the earlier Work Session discussion about the need to change this policy to meet the new limits due to a change in the law during the last Iowa Legislative session.  The threshold of earnings for a School Board member as related to conflict of interest with the District has been raised to $20,000.  Not in the policy is the change for IPERS benefit recipients under the age of 65 and employed by an IPERS eligible employer may now earn up to $50,000 annually without loss of IPERS benefits.  The prior IPERS limit was $30,000.

Denise Chittick moved to approve the amendment upon First Reading Board Policy 203 Conflict of interest with the new limit of $20,000 as signed into law on March 23, 2022.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Finance

New Money Market Accounts at Federation Bank and CBI Bank and Trust for Bond Proceeds

Business Manager Swartzentruber directed the Board’s attention to the account setup documents on the Board document site.  The Revenue Bonds will settle and be funded on Wednesday, July 13, 2022.  On that day, the funds will be wired into the Hills Bank Account in the amount of $12,430,000.  After closing expenses and escrow the net available for construction projects is expected to be $11,315,000.  The net proceeds will be evenly split to the three local banks into interest bearing accounts.  There is a need to two separate motions to set up the money market accounts at Federation Bank, and CBI Bank and Trust, respectively.  The District will use the Hills Bank interest bearing checking account initially, The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the creation of the Money Market Account at Federation Bank as presented with the account setup documents.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

Jed Seward moved to approve the creation of the Money Market Account at CBI Bank and Trust as presented with the account setup documents.  Jake Snider seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

School Bus Specifications Set Date and Time for Public Hearing

Business Manager Swartzentruber discussed the ongoing need to keep the District School Bus Fleet up to date.  A request for a Public Hearing to review the bus specifications for the purchase of up to two diesel powered, Yellow School Buses on August 8, 2022, at 7:15 p.m. is recommended.  The buses to be replaced are two of the older route buses that have reached a point where repairs are increasingly more frequent.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to set a Public Hearing for purpose of reviewing the specifications of up to 2 diesel powered school buses on Monday, August 8, 2022 at 7:15 p.m. at the Mid-Prairie Central Office Community Room.  Denise Chittick seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0.

2022 2023 Proposed School Fees / Admission Fees

Superintendent Stone noted that the Board had tabled this agenda item from the June 27th meeting due to discussions about whether or not to increase the gate amounts as recommended by the conference.  The conference approved an increase event ticket prices to $6 per High School Event and for Middle School to $4 for Adults and $1 for Students.  This also causes consideration of the Year Long Pass Prices to increase by $5 each for Families, Adults, and Students for the 2022-2023 School Year.  New amounts will be $265, $105, and $90, respectively.

At the June 27th meeting, the Board discussed not only not increasing the ticket prices but contemplated letting all Mid-Prairie students in free with a valid student identification card.  An alternative to allowing students in free, was to have a periodic free night for Mid-Prairie students instead.

Prior to tonight’s meeting an analysis of the annual gate revenue and the expenses of officials to better understand the impact of the options.  Superintendent Stone recommends the approval of the event ticket prices and season passes.  Families will begin to buy season passes for 2022-2023 very soon, and thus waiting until August could create issues, especially if prices were to be raised.  The Board asked questions for clarification and understanding.

The Board then discussed modifying the recommendation to $6 Adults and $3 for Mid-Prairie students. Middle School ticket prices would be as recommended at $4 for adults and $1 for students. The season long passes would then follow as $265 for families, $105 adults, and no change for students at $85.

Gabrielle Frederick moved to approve the athletic event prices to be $6 for Adults and $3 for Mid-Prairie Students at High School Events, $4 for Adults and $1 for all Students at Middle School Events, and Season Long Passes at $265 for Families, $105 for Adults, and $85 for Students.  Mary Allred seconded the motion.    Motion carried 6-0

Work Session

Completion of Unfinished Work Session Items

Board Policy Review – Continuation of Series 400 from the Work Session

Superintendent Stone led the Board through the latter sections of the Series 400 Board Policies that had not yet been completed to the end of Series 400.  The review of these policies was completed.  It was noted that the Series 100 and 400 Policies will be brought to August Board meeting for First Reading consideration of approval.

Announcements and Suggestions for Next Agenda

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, August 8, 2022, at 6:15 p.m. at the Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items to include: Public Hearing for New School Buses, First Reading of Board Policy Series 100 and 400, Second Reading of Board Policy 203, and Annual Bank Depository Resolution.

There will be a special Board Meeting Work Session Training Session on Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at Central Office Community Room.  Agenda items will include: One item of business as a review and approval of the Schematic Design stage of the 2022 Revenue Bond Projects with Carl A. Nelson and Shive-Hattery personnel present to present; following this one business item, the Board will continue to the second Board Development Work Session with IASB consultant Tammi Drawbaugh.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 7:51 p.m.

 

 

 

July 7, 2022 SPECIAL REPORT

Mid-Prairie Community School District 

           Kalona, Wellman, West Chester

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

July 7, 2022 – 6:00 p.m.

www.mid-prairie.k12.ia.us

 

President Jeremy Pickard called the meeting to order.

Board members present Mary Allred, Gabrielle Frederick, Jeremy Pickard, Marianne Schlabach, Jed Seward, Jake Snider.

Board members absent:  Denise Chittick.

Staff Present:  Superintendent Brian Stone, Business Manager/Board Secretary Jeff Swartzentruber

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

Work Session

Board Development Training

Board President Jeremy Pickard introduced Tammi Drawbaugh, IASB Consultant, presenter and discussion leader for the tonight and for July 14th.  Tammi led the board in a Board education and training session on Board Governance Practices.  The framework for the work of the Board as a unit and the focus on the differences of Governance versus Management are key components to near term and long term success for the Board.

Announcements

The next regularly scheduled School Board Meeting will be Monday, July 11, 2022, at 6:15pm in the Central Office Community Room.

The next Special Board Meeting will be Thursday, July 14, 2022, at 6pm in the Central Office Community Room.  The agenda will include a second session on Board Governance Practices with IASB and the Schematic Design Presentation by Carl A. Nelson and Shive-Hattery for East Elementary and Middle School projects related to the 2022 Revenue Bond Issue.  The schematic design presentation will be first at 6 p.m. followed by the Work Session.

Adjournment

The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.