The Board Report

Marshalltown Virtual Academy approved for next school year
The Marshalltown CSD is delighted to introduce the Marshalltown Virtual Academy (MVA) for the 2021-22 school year and beyond!

The Marshalltown Virtual Academy recently received Iowa Department of Education approval, and the Marshalltown School Board granted its approval of the exciting new, permanent virtual learning program at the Monday, Feb. 15 regular meeting.

“We’re excited … to be able to continue to offer this learn from home option, not only to kids who live in Marshalltown, but kids who may live in other parts of Iowa,” said District Director of Instruction Dr. Lisa Stevenson. 

Students in grades PK-12 from anywhere in Iowa are able to enroll in the Marshalltown Virtual Academy. MVA students will not only receive a flexible, personalized, and enriching educational experience, but they will also be able to fully participate in school sports, fine arts, clubs, and other activities along with their fellow Bobcat students. 

With Monday’s approval, the MVA is now accepting student enrollment applications. Parents and guardians interested in the Marshalltown Virtual Academy are asked to take this brief MVA interest survey. (PLEASE NOTE: students in grades 1-12 who will be new to the Marshalltown CSD in the 2021-22 school year must enroll by March 1)

To learn more about how the Marshalltown Virtual Academy will provide an excellent environment for students to grow and thrive, visit https://www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us/marshalltown-virtual-academy/

Board earns prestigious IASB Team Achievement Award
The Marshalltown School Board is one of just five board teams statewide to earn a 2019-20 Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) Team Achievement Award; that outstanding accomplishment was celebrated at Monday’s meeting.

The 2019-20 Marshalltown School Board members honored include: Board President Bea Niblock, Vice President Sean Heitmann, Mike Miller, Karina Hernandez, Sara Faltys, Jan McGinnis, and former member Bob Untiedt.  

In addition to the Team Achievement Award, Niblock, Heitmann, Hernandez, Faltys, McGinnis, and Untiedt earned Individual Achievement Awards from IASB. Superintendent Dr. Theron Schutte was also recognized for being one of seven education leaders statewide to earn an Award of Honor from IASB for 2019-20. 

Learn more about these incredible achievements by District leaders here!

Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program to bring mobile hotspots, learning environment support to MCSD
The Marshalltown CSD is partnering with the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program to support and create innovative learning environments after board action Monday.

Marshalltown Schools is one of only 30 districts nationwide, and one of only two in Iowa, to be selected for the exciting Verizon Innovative Learning Schools initiative.

The program provides free internet access in the form of hotspots to students who qualify for free/reduced lunches and identify as not having high-quality internet access. In addition to free access, the program provides training and classroom technology integration support for school staff. 

District Director of Technology Amy Harmsen said the Verizon Innovative Learning Schools program will allow MCSD to continue providing internet access to students for the foreseeable future.

Bid approved for major MHS, Anson air-conditioning projects
Projects for new and upgraded air conditioning at Marshalltown High School and Anson Elementary School took another big step forward Monday. The board approved a bid from Garling Construction, Inc. for the work, and project costs are set to be much lower than originally expected. 

The bid to complete the upgrades at MHS and Anson, along with four additional alternates, was approved at $5,253,000. That figure is more than $2.5 million less than the initial estimated cost for the project. 

The alternates approved as part of the bid include LED lighting upgrades, pool HVAC/dehumidification work, and classroom flooring replacement work at MHS, as well as south window replacement work at Anson. All project costs will be paid for with bond proceeds from the issuance of School Infrastructure Sales, Services, & Use Tax (SAVE) Revenue bonds.

MHS student’s Know Your Constitution program achievement recognized
MHS sophomore Yessenia Alvarez Zamora was recently named as a Finalist in the Iowa State Bar Association’s Know Your Constitution program. Yessenia’s accomplishment was recognized at Monday’s meeting, and she described her experience in the program. 

“It pushes you to do your own research and be educated on issues … to have your own opinion based on facts,” Yessenia said of the competition, which included a 50-question quiz and an essay focusing on felon voting rights.

Yessenia said she does not plan to pursue a career in law, but found the competition both fun and informative. She said she became interested in the competition by participating in MHS Youth for Awareness activities; she added she would recommend the Know Your Constitution competition to her peers.

Discussion held on potential CIML scheduling realignment
MHS Activities Director Ryan Isgrig shared an update with the board on the schedule realignment discussions happening within the Central Iowa Metropolitan League (CIML), of which MCSD is a member district. 

The realignment has been called for by some districts in the CIML with the intent to ensure fair, healthy competition between and among school sports programs. The current proposal would see the 19 CIML schools move into two conferences, one with 10 schools and the other with nine schools, to provide better competition and equity.

“It would still be the CIML conference, but the 10-team pod would consist of Ames, the five Des Moines public schools, Fort Dodge, Marshalltown, and Mason City, as well as Ottumwa,” Isgrig said, adding there would still be opportunities to play against the large suburban schools within the CIML, including Waukee, Ankeny, West Des Moines, and others.

He said such a change “would be a step in the right direction” for Marshalltown Schools. 

Discussions among CIML school districts and leaders are ongoing, and other proposals could still be made before a final plan is approved within the League. If changes are approved, they would be set to take effect in the 2022-23 school year.

The Marshalltown School Board did not take action on this topic at Monday’s meeting; the item was for information and discussion only.

Revised COVID-19 Pandemic Response policy adopted
Updates to the District’s COVID-19 Pandemic Response supplemental policy were adopted by the board Monday. The revised language reflects the extension of emergency paid sick leave for staff through March 31, 2021, despite the end of federal support for such leave at the end of 2020. 

The document also includes the District’s multiple safety measure requirements to help fight the spread of the coronavirus.

Board adopts resolution on state SF 159 legislation
A resolution opposing a state legislative bill was adopted at Monday’s meeting. The bill referenced in the resolution is Senate File 159 – Scholarship Funds, Vouchers, Education Savings Accounts and Expanded Tax Credits.

Communications
Communications Director Adam Sodders reviewed the good news from the district by sharing newspaper articles as well as school communications articles. That list can be seen here.

Personnel items
For a list of personnel items approved Monday, click here.

Policies
First Reading – 

• 403.3-E1 Hepatitis B Vaccine Information and Record (adopted, second reading waived)
• 501.4 Entrance Requirements-Evidence of Age (amended, second reading waived)
• 502.8 Search and Seizure (amended, second reading waived)
• 502.8E1 (new 502.8-E1) Search and Seizure Checklist (amended, second reading waived)
• 507.2-E1 Authorization Asthma or Airway-Constricting Disease Medication or Epinephrine Auto Injector Self-Administration Consent Form (adopted, second reading waived)
• 603.1 Basic Instruction Program (amended, second reading waived)
• 604.6 Instruction at a Post-Secondary Education Institution (amended, second reading waived)
• 605.4-R (new 505.5) Graduation Requirements (amended, second reading waived)

Initial Review – 

• 301.2 (new 302.2) Superintendent of Schools-Contract and Contract Non-Renewal (will come back for a first reading)
• 302.2 (new 301.1) Associates to the Superintendent-Qualifications (marked as reviewed)
• 507.2-E2 Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Prescription Medication to Students (will come back for a first reading)

The next Marshalltown School Board meeting is set for 5 p.m. Monday, March 1, 2021 at the Central Administration Office, 1002 S. 3rd Ave. The meeting will be available to watch via live stream through the Bobcat News Network (BNN) YouTube channel.

School year calendar approved for 2021-22
The Marshalltown School Board approved the 2021-22 school year calendar at Monday’s regular meeting. Here are a few key highlights from next school year’s calendar: 

• First day of school: Aug. 24, 2021
• Last day of school: June 1, 2022 (barring potential inclement weather days)
• Thanksgiving Break: Nov. 24-26, 2021
• Winter Break: Dec. 23, 2021 to Jan. 2, 2022
• Spring Break: March 14-18, 2022
  (aligned with state regent universities & Marshalltown Community College) 

“[The calendar] incorporates 190 teacher contract days, 177 of which are student contact days,” said Superintendent Dr. Theron Schutte. “We’ve got 11 teacher professional development and/or work days built in.” 

The 2021-22 school calendar is available to view now on the MCSD website.

Resolutions adopted for A/C projects at MHS, Anson Elementary
Marshalltown High School and Anson Elementary School are set for major upgrades after the board adopted plans, specifications, and forms of contract for projects at each building Monday evening. 

The main focus of both projects will be the buildings’ air heating and cooling systems. Additional work to be done as part of the projects includes window improvements at Anson and upgraded LED light fixtures at MHS, among other items.

The board also adopted a resolution for $10 million in school infrastructure, sales, services, and use tax revenue bonds in order to finance the important projects at MHS and Anson. Public hearings on the both projects and on the bond resolution yielded no comments.

District will not move forward with proposed staggered school start/end times
A proposal for staggered school start/end times at the PK-4 and 5-12 grade levels did not gain board approval Monday.

With the removal of hybrid learning for grades 7-12 beginning Tuesday, Feb. 16, the District will continue to implement safety measures such as mask wearing, frequent deep clearing and sanitation of school buildings and, as much as possible, social distancing of at least 3-6 feet, among other measures.

Rogers Elementary Mileage Club program recognized
Rogers Elementary P.E. teacher Nicole Boliver has seen impressive participation in the school’s Mileage Club program, which seeks to get kids outside and active by logging the distance they walk, jog, or run over the course of the school year. 

As of last month, the Rogers students have logged more than 600 combined of miles this school year. 

Two students who have covered a lot of distance on the Rogers track joined Boliver as the program was recognized Monday evening. Third-graders Bennett Thede and Vayda Smith said they’ve enjoyed putting in the miles this year, and look forward to adding even more before the end of the second semester.

Learn more about the incredible Rogers Mileage Club program here!

School counselors’ crucial work spotlighted
This week, Feb. 1-5, is National School Counseling Week. At MCSD, we are blessed with a top-notch team of caring, smart, and supportive school counselors.

Board member Jan McGinnis recited a board proclamation celebrating the important work school counselors do every day. Learn more about how they help guide Bobcat students to success here!

Student School Board Representative update
Student school board representatives Itzary Avalos and Haley Reed shared an update from Marshalltown High School with the board. Their report included: 

• Highlights from recent events, including the virtual MHS Orchestra Concert and the recognition of MHS Class of 1981 alum and wrestling icon Larry Jackson last month
• A preview of the upcoming National Honor Society “Piece of Mind” project, which will focus on student mental health in March
• A roundup of Bobcats basketball, boys swimming, and wrestling events, as well as a look ahead to soccer and girls track and field this spring

MHS course guide for next school year approved
The Marshalltown High School Course Guide for the 2021-22 school year got the board’s nod Monday evening, and there will be three new classes offered to MHS students.

The three new classes are AP Art History, Prep for College English, and a new College and Career Readiness seminar. In addition, MHS Principal Jacque Wyant said students in the Fire Science program will have the opportunity to earn an EMT certification next school year thanks to a partnership with the Marshalltown Fire Department. 

Students who earn the EMT certification would be able to apply to join the MFD as a professional firefighter.

Steps taken toward upgrade projects at Lenihan, Franklin Elementary
Two proposed projects are moving forward with the board’s approval Monday evening.

One proposal is for design work outlining an audio/visual and intercom renovation project at Lenihan Intermediate School. The other proposal is for the services related to the demolition of the bleachers on the Franklin Elementary School campus, along with paving work.

The Lenihan A/V and intercom upgrades would be paid for out of ESSER Part 2 funds, while the proposed bleacher demolition and paving project at Franklin would be paid out of PERL funds.

Technology items approved
District staff and members of the Marshalltown community will join forces as part of the new Technology Advisory Committee approved Monday. The committee, made up of 17 members, will advise the MCSD Technology and Curriculum departments on the use of technology by students and staff.

The District Technology Department also gained approval to seek bids for wireless networking equipment. Director of Technology Amy Harmsen said the federal e-Rate program will help cover a significant amount of the cost for the equipment. 

Additionally, the board accepted a bid for Acer Chromebooks and related equipment for students in grades 2, 5, and 10. A bid was also accepted for PC laptop computers to replace teachers’ current desktop workstations. Both the Chromebooks and the laptops were purchased as part of the District’s normal technology replacement cycle. 

Harmsen said the PC laptops will allow teachers more mobility and convenience compared to their current desktop workstations. She said the Chromebooks teachers currently have will not be replaced by and will still be available for use.

Special education overview presented
Director of Special Services Matt Cretsinger and Central Rivers Area Education Agency Executive Director of Special Education Amy Knupp shared an overview of Chapter 103 of the state’s administrative rules.

Cretsinger said MCSD staff have completed updated training based on Chapter 103, and the board recently approved several updated policies to align with the regulations within the chapter.

MHS student set for early graduation
MHS senior Skye Johnson will graduate early this school year after board approval. She will join several other Bobcat high schoolers who have successfully worked toward early graduation.

Communications
Communications Director Adam Sodders reviewed the good news from the district by sharing newspaper articles as well as school communications articles. That list can be seen here.

Personnel items
For a list of personnel items approved Monday, click here.

Policies

First Reading – 

• 204.8 (new 210.7) Rules of Order (amended, second reading waived)
• 205.1 (new 216.3) Compensation for Expenses (amended, second reading waived)
• New 210-7-R1 Rules of Order Regulation (adopted, second reading waived)
• 312.3-E1Fringe Benefits-Administrators/Supervisors (amended, second reading waived)
• 409.2 Employee Leaves of Absence (amended, second reading waived)
• 507.2 Administration of Medication to Students (amended, second reading waived) 
• 507.2-R Administration of Medication to Students (deleted)
• New 604.10 Online Courses (adopted, second reading waived)

Initial Review – 

• 205.3 Board of Directors and Elected Officials (marked as reviewed)
• 403.3-E1 Hepatitis B Vaccine Information and Record (will come back for a first reading)
• 507.2-E1 Authorization Asthma or Airway Constricting Disease Medication or Epinephrine Auto Injector Self-Administration Consent Form (will come back for a first reading)
• 507.2-E2 Parental Authorization and Release Form for the Administration of Medication to Students (will come back for a first reading)
• 501.3 Compulsory Attendance (marked as reviewed)
• 501.4 Entrance Requirements-Evidence of Age (will come back for a first reading)
• 502.8 Search and Seizure (will come back for a first reading)
• 502.8-E1 (new 502.8-E1) Search and Seizure Checklist (will come back for a first reading)
• 603.1 Basic Instruction Program (will come back for a first reading)
• 605.4-R (new 505.5) Graduation Requirements (will come back for a first reading)
• 604.6 Instruction at a Post-Secondary Education Institution (will come back for a first reading)

The next Marshalltown School Board meeting is set for 5 p.m. Monday, Feb. 15, 2021 at the Central Administration Office, 1002 S. 3rd Ave. The meeting will be available to watch via live stream through the Bobcat News Network (BNN) YouTube channel.