The Board Report

Recognitions

Lenihan Intermediate School students Xander Harwell and Megan Sills were honored for their art pieces, which received statewide recognition through the Art Educators of Iowa.

Marshalltown High School student resource specialist Scott Johannes talked about being honored with the Golden Apple Award from WHO-TV.

The Marshalltown High School bowling team won the Class 3A state team title on Feb. 25 and talked about their experience.

The MHS boys bowling team was honored by the school board for its Class 3A state team title. Pictured talking  is coach Roger Taylor Sr.

Anson Elementary Presentation

Anson Principal Ronnie Manis, presented along with staff members Jennifer Estabrook, Kim Hurley and Jennifer Janssen on strategies to help the school’s 360 students succeed. The four main areas of focus for Anson staff include SIOP implementation, math, language literacy framework and increasing parent involvement.

MHS Principal Search Process

Lisa Koester presented the process for selecting the next MHS principal. Dr. Marvin Wade and Koester plan to meet with MHS staff next week to share information on the process. Committees of staff, students, community members and administration will be formed and meet to determine criteria of what they want in the next principal. The district received 23 applicants from throughout the United States. Administration will sort through criteria and narrow the field to interview. Committees will determine questions to ask the candidates. Candidate interviews are planned to be scheduled for the week of March 23. The plan is come to the board on April 6 with a recommendation for the new hire.

Budget preparation for fiscal year 2015-16

Dr. Wade said the district is starting to feel the crunch because State Supplemental Aid has not been set by legislature, and we are in the same boat with every other district in the state. There are several variables to take into consideration before building the budget. Kevin Posekany said in two weeks he will bring more budget information to the board.

Reading Recovery Training Facility Remodel

Rick Simpson and Dave Schulze presented remodeling bids for the Staff Development Annex at 315 Columbus Drive. This renovation will allow for the space to be used by the district and other school districts for training. The board approved the base bid and two alternates for $83,500 from Hay Construction of Marshalltown for the project.

Board policies

902.2 – News Conferences and Interviews – Approve as amended and waive second reading.

903.3 – Building Visitors– Approved as amended and waive second reading.

803.1 – Deposition of Obsolete Equipment – Initial reading conducted, will come back to board for first reading

705.1 – Purchasing – Initial reading conducted, will come back for first reading

903.7 – Parent-Teacher Organizations – Marked as reviewed.

904.1 – Public Performance by students – Marked as reviewed

904.2- Sales Promotion Prohibited – Suggested to be reworded and brought back.

904.4 – Money Raising Activities in Schools. – Marked as reviewed.

905.1-R1 – Application for Use and approval- Take a look at it and bring back.

For personnel items click here

Message From Board President Kay Beach

Tonight I began my personal ANGRY SEASON. I’m angry with our governor for not making adequate funding for education his top priority. And I’m angry with our legislators for failing to agree on a package for State Supplemental Aid for next school year within the time required by law. And I’m angry that Boards of Education are required to certify by April 20 their budgets for next school year without that information. Please take the time to let your state legislators know that you are angry about this, too–because you should be! They’re your children, and their futures are at stake…

– Kay Beach

The next regular board meeting is at 5 p.m. March 16 in district offices.

Student Recognition

Marshalltown High School senior Cecilia Martinez presented to the board on her experience speaking on a proposed anti-bullying bill at the Feb. 10 press conference held by Gov. Terry Branstad at the State Capitol. A total of 24 students from MHS and Miller Middle School attended the event.

Speech coach Jocelyn Frohwein and student Elizabeth Drennon talk to the school board on Feb. 16.

MHS Speech team

Large group speech coach Jocelyn Frohwein and student Elizabeth Drennon, talked about MHS students who qualified for the recent large group state contest. Group improv and short film made state while radio broadcast excelled at districts.

Frohwein said many students on the team are at risk or previously uninvolved students. Frohwein showed a video of their experience and their award-winning short film performance.

Competency-Based Education

District administrators Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, Eric Goslinga, Dr. Mick Jurgensen and Jacy Large gave an update to the board on Competency-Based Education. Marshalltown is one of 10 districts in the state involved in the CBE collaborative.

The goal is to engage students in the learning process, creating a personalized learning opportunity for students.

The focus of CBE is on student learning, not on grades. It’s about advancing through content based on need, not seat time. They said in many ways CBE is already in place in Marshalltown classrooms, with more development expected in the future.

River Hills Consortium Special Education Administrative Costs

Matt Cretsinger presented costs of this program for the next school year through the School Budget Review Committee, which were approved by the board.

Policies

902.3 – Releases to News Media-Internal Unit News-  Approved as amended, waive second reading

902.4 – Releases to News Media – Board Matters – Approved as amended, waive second reading.

902.5 – Duplicated or Printed Materials – Approved as amended, waive second reading

902.2 – News Conferences and Interviews (new policy) – Add “may include a representative of the board.” Brand new policy will return for approval.

902.6 – Board Proceedings – Marked reviewed

903.2- Public Examination of School District Records – Marked reviewed

903.3 – Building visitors – Add that visitors must report to office for badge and bring back.

903.4 – Public Conduct on School Premises. – Change “Conduct Counts” to conduct standards in item No. 4. and bring back.

903.5 – Distribution of Materials  – “Approved by director of student services” should be “superintendent or designees.”

For personnel items, click here.

Message From Board President Kay Beach

Board meetings are often, of necessity, full of the nuts and bolts of the “business” of running a school district.  Tonight’s meeting had us all smiling as we heard – from her own smiling and confident lips – the story of how a speech and drama class has opened up a new world to a formerly withdrawn and uninvolved student. This transformation occurred because a caring coach helped this senior find both her own personal passion and a group of friends who shared it.  Hers is a dramatic demonstration of the “personal empowerment” referred to in our district’s Mission Statement.

– Kay Beach

The next regular meeting of the board is at 5 p.m. March 2 in district offices

Fisher Elementary Principal Vicki Vopava made a presentation to the board on Feb. 2.

Continuous Learning Calendar

Community member Arlene McAtee spoke to the school board in favor of appointing a study committee to explore the possibility of a Continuous Learning Calendar in Marshalltown Schools. McAtee was joined by several community leaders in support of this move to more year-round learning. She said this would put Marshalltown in a leadership role in this effort. The board approved the request to appoint a committee to explore this initiative.

Fisher Elementary School

Fisher Elementary Principal Vicki Vopava and literacy coach Jennifer August gave an attendance center update to the board. Vopava said there is a heavy focus on acceleration as it relates to growth in student achievement at Fisher and was excited to share the success they have had.

Student Recognition

Marshalltown High School junior Beau Ragland spoke about his selection as a Know Your Constitution state finalist. Ragland was among 100 finalists recognized for their work on a quiz and essay on the U.S. Constitution.

Attendance Center rankings

Dr. Marvin Wade and Dr. Susan Pecinovsky talked about new figures from the Iowa Department of Education, which ranks attendance centers in the state. The two ranking categories released last Friday were student proficiency rates and academic growth. Rankings on other measures are due to be released in the future. To connect to the rankings website, click here.

Strategy One Progress Report

District administrators presented on this strategy to design and deliver curriculum, instruction, assessment and interventions that support the district’s long-term strategic goals and objectives. This strategy is part of the Strategic Action Plan.

Work truck purchase      

The board approved the purchase of a Ford F250 truck for $25,184 for the transportation department from Jensen Ford. This new truck will replace some of the work currently being done by a 1984 model truck and a 2001 model truck.

Buildings and Grounds projects

The board approved the plans, scope of work and to move forward with the competitive quote process for the remodeling of the Staff Development Annex at 315 Columbus Drive. This remodeling will allow for Reading Recovery training in the facility.

The board also approved plans and scope of work and let another project out bid, which is the Equity Disability Remodel at Anson and Woodbury elementary schools. This will allow for handicap accessibility upgrades at the schools, especially in several restroom areas. A contract is expected to be awarded on the bids at the March 2 board meeting,

Band uniform fees

The board approved an increase in fees in band uniforms for MHS students. The increase went from $25 to $35 and an increase hasn’t been issued in 16 years for this service, which pays for the dry cleaning of the uniforms.

Policies

801.5 – Construction Contract Bidding– Approved

802.8 – Use of Contract Service – Approved

902.1 – Board – Community Relations – Mark as reviewed with the deletion of first few words.

902.2 – News Conferences and Interviews (New Policy) – Will be brought back for initial reading.

902.3 – Releases to News Media – Internal Unit News – Mark reviewed with deletion of start.

902.4 – Releases to News Media- Board Matters – To come back to board after rewording.

902.5 – Duplicated or Printed Materials – To be brought back to board.

For personnel items click here.

Message from Board President Kay Beach:

It was wonderful to learn all of the great things going on at Fisher Elementary School from Vicki Vopava and Jennifer August. It’s wonderful not only to see the numbers of those students displaying accelerated learning, but also to see the excitement of the teachers about that accelerated learning. It’s very encouraging and the results they are getting are exciting.

– Kay Beach

The next regular meeting of the school board is at 5 p.m. Feb. 16 at district offices.

Franklin Elementary School Principal Tim Holmgren presented to the board on Jan. 19, 2015

Franklin Elementary Presentation

Franklin Elementary School Principal Tim Holmgren presented his attendance center plan to the board during the meeting. He said they currently have 364 students enrolled preschool through fourth grade at Franklin.

Holmgren talked about the focus on SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol), the Language Literacy Framework and parent involvement.

He said the Franklin staff is committed to increasing student achievement.

Marshalltown Community School District Foundation

Larry McKibben and Jim Bowman of the foundation spoke to the board about a different direction for the future of the foundation.

They would like to get younger board members to carry the foundation into the future and also feel having a school administrator involved would give the foundation authenticity.

McKibben and Bowman said they would like to get through both phases of the MHS Roundhouse renovation first before there are changes to the board and the foundation.

Teacher Leadership and Compensation

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky submitted a list of additional Model Classroom teachers. The list was accepted by the board.

River Hills Consortium

Matt Cretsinger explained the need for MCSD to build a consortium to serve students currently in the River Hills specialized program. The cost of the program is shared by the districts involved in the consortium. It was approved by the board.

Instructional Support Levy

A public hearing was held. Kevin Posekany said this is one piece of the budget process. The board supported continuation of this levy. The actual levy will be a part of the budget with plans for official approval in April.

Interest based bargaining session

Lisa Koester will make a connection with the MEA and get some dates sent out to the board for these sessions.

Miller Middle School Boys Locker Room Remodel

The board approved this project as substantially complete. The board also saw “before and after” photos of the locker room.

MHS steam boiler replacement

There is a failed steam boiler at Marshalltown High School that supports the swimming pool heating system. The boiler provides steam and heat also for dishwashing and cooking. The board approved the purchase of a new boiler at $38,811 from the Waterloo Boiler Company, which should be on site within a few days.

Policies

801.7- Financing Sites and Construction, 802.1 – Maintenance Schedule, 802.2-Requests for Improvement, 802.3 – Emergency Repairs, 802.7 – Energy Management Conservation all marked as reviewed

802.8 — Use of Contract Service- Portion of the policy to change, brought back to the board

803.1- Disposition of Obsolete Equipment- Kevin Posekany will look at other school district polices and come back for first reading.

804.1- Safety Program, 804.2 – Video Surveillance and Electronic Monitoring, 804.4 Asbestos – Containing Materials, 900- Statement of Guiding Principles all marked as reviewed.

801.5-  Construction Contract Building-  Modification to the policy – District to go with new procurement rules, allows district to procure bids up to the state competitive bid limits.

Personnel – Click here.
and here.

From Board Vice President Anne Paullus

It was exciting to approve the appointment of 26 teachers to join the team involved in our teacher leadership compensation initiative.  We know that to improve student achievement, we must continue to improve classroom instruction.

Many years ago, I learned to snow ski as an adult.  I started by getting some lessons.  I watched the ski instructor as he demonstrated some basic things.  Then I tried them as he watched.  At first I didn’t do so well, but he watched me and pointed out what I did well and gave me some pointers to do better.  After repeating this process, I got better and could successfully make it down some slopes by myself.

Like with learning any new skill, teachers learn by observing good instruction, practicing good instruction strategies while being observed by competent coaches, and then reflecting with those coaches on what was effective and what could be improved or modified.  I am happy that this type of professional learning is becoming a part of how we do business in the Marshalltown Community School District.

– Anne Paullus

The next regular board meeting is at 5 p.m. Feb. 2 in district offices

MHS graduate discusses internship in Nepal

Board approves property purchases, demolition near Rogers Elementary

The Board approved purchasing four properties on the same block as Rogers Elementary School, the final steps in a multi-year process to make the entire block part of Rogers.

The four properties will be purchased for $214,800 and notices will go out for bids to demolish the houses. The district is also working with the city on closing an alleyway on the block. Dr. Mick Jurgensen, Rogers principal, the process began more than 12 years ago when a group of Rogers parents came together advocate for purchasing properties and making the entire block part of Rogers school. Several properties have been purchased and razed since that time and the four purchases approved Monday represent the final remaining properties.

Buildings and Grounds Director Rick Simpson told the Board the space will allow for adding adequate parking, green space, and room for growth. The school currently has a parking variance from the city because there are not enough spaces for the size of the building.
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MHS leaders discuss work underway

Marshalltown High School leadership came before the Board Monday to discuss the many ways MHS is working to increase student achievement and make the school a safe, welcoming environment for students and staff.

This year 50 students are part of a 9th grade academy, placing a cohort of students in block classes for math/science and reading/social studies. Associate Principal Deb Holsapple said several of the students have told her they find great benefit in the structure.

Sophomores receive targeted interventions. Any student falling below a C- in language arts is case managed by classroom teachers. For math, low proficiency students receive support in the Math Center.

The 8th Hour Program is held Monday and Tuesday 4-6pm, featuring core instruction in English, math, science and social studies, as well as a component recovery option. A drop-in extended day program is held 3:30-5pm Monday, Tuesday and Thursday and 2:30-4pm on Wednesdays. Held in the learning center, this program offers tutoring and computer accessibility for classwork or online courses.

MHS also offers the Academic Support Center (ASC) for core instruction support and study skill development and Egenuity, online coursework focused on credit recovery.

A student resource specialist, social worker and juvenile court liaison work with students and families to provide support, wrap-around services, and alternative programming when appropriate.

MHS is now in year two of Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), strengthening the Tier I foundation and building a system of Tier II supports.

See the full presentation online.
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District purchases two maintenance vehicles

The Board approved purchasing two 2015 Ford F250 4×4 trucks from Jensen Ford in Marshalltown for a total price of $45,678.

The trucks will replace a 1994 suburban and a 1995 pickup truck.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Kay Beach, President

Occasionally I find myself in the midst of a group of people who are discussing a subject about which I know almost nothing. I can nod my head and pretend to understand; but pretty soon I mentally “check out,” and my mind leaves the room. This is essentially what happens in a classroom when a student is unable to relate what is being taught to anything in his/her mental database. This evening two of the district’s TLC coaches (who are funded through a Teacher Leadership & Compensation grant) told us about the efforts they are making to help our teachers bridge that gap between what their students know/understand and what those students are supposed to be learning. The gap may be caused by a language barrier or simply a lack of experience-based vocabulary. The coaches’ dedication to continually improving the quality of teaching in all of our classrooms and the passion with which they spoke about the importance of training superior teachers was truly inspiring. I am compelled to borrow a statement which I often hear Dr. Pecinovsky use: “This is good work!”
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POLICY

First Reading

703.3 Preparation of the Working Budget Document, approve as amended, waive second reading.

Initial Review

701.5 Post-Issuance Compliance Policy for Tax-Exempt Obligations, changes coming in January – mark reviewed for now.
704.5 Tuition Fees, add line reflecting other programs with tuition fees.
704.6 Educational Material Fees, mark reviewed.
705.1/R Purchasing, mark reviewed.
705.3/R Requisition and Purchase Order, mark reviewed.
705.4 Receiving Supplies and Equipment, mark reviewed.
705.5 Approval and Payment for Goods and Services, mark reviewed.
705.6 Unpaid warrants, mark reviewed.
301.4 Evaluation of the Superintendent, changes based recommendations at the state level, bring back for first reading.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

Kevin Posekany administers the oath of office to board president Kay Beach.

Board elects new president, vice president

Kay Beach was elected president of the Board of Education Monday night during the annual reorganization meeting. Anne Paullus was elected vice-president.

Following the election, the Board made its annual appointments for various positions:

• Secretary-Treasurer: Kevin Posekany
• School Attorney: Cartwright, Druker & Ryden
• Additional Legal Counsel: Ahlers & Cooney, PC
• Architect of Record: TSP

The board also approved the list of District financial institutions and membership on the School Improvement Advisory Committee.
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September is Attendance Awareness Month

Spread the Words: Read by 3rd! is marking Attendance Awareness Month with several activities and outreach programs to make sure students are in class and learning every day.

Lindsay Upah, Spread the Words: Read by 3rd! coordinator, and Arlene McAtee, executive director of Mid-Iowa Community Action, discussed plans with the Board Monday night. More than 250 school districts across the U.S. participate in Attendance Awareness Month campaigns annually. In Marhsalltown, Spread the Words will have a float in the Oktemberfest parade, as well as present information to the city council and school board. There are also plans for PSAs, flyers for businesses, and participation in parent nights at elementary schools.

September will also launch the second year of the Perfectly Punctual campaign. This initiative began mid-way through last year and will include efforts at Rogers Elementary and St. Paul’s Preschool, the Community Y Preschool and Head Start. Children track their own attendance through the program, which includes parent activities and frequent recognition.

The quarterly attendance ceremonies will also continue this year at all elementary schools in Marshalltown.
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Special Education deficit discussed

Special Education funding is always a year behind, explained Matt Cretsinger, director of special services. This fact, combined with an increase in students served after the annual Child Count date, contribute to a Special Education deficit of $1,139,996.

Funding is determined by the number of students and their level of services who are attending the district on the last Friday of October. Last year 676 students were counted on that date, but the district served 759 students throughout the school year. This 83 student increase over Child Count equates to $392, 363 in additional costs, with funding not allocated until the next year.

The district also had some initial start-up costs for Four Oaks ($85,970) and costs to serve Special Education students placed outside if the district or open enrolled ($681,772).

Cretsinger did note that Special Education Department expenditures decreased by $147,752 between 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 and while our deficit increased by $221,001, it is still below or comparable to many other districts this size.

The Board voted to approve applying additional spending authority from the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) to cover the costs.
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Brycon, LLC, awarded Anson Elementary parking lot project

Brycon, LLC, of Marshalltown will complete the Anson Elementary parking lot project at a cost of $214,000. They listed a substantial completion date of Oct. 31, 2014. The project includes repaving the current parking lot and an alternate of expanding to the north.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By. Dr. Marvin Wade

During Monday evening’s board meeting Kay Beach was elected Board President and Anne Paullus was elected Vice President.  Mrs. Beach and Mrs. Paullus have provided leadership to Marshalltown Schools for a number of years and the community is fortunate to now have them as officers of the Board.  We are equally fortunate to have former President Sherm Welker and former Vice President Jennifer Wilson remaining on the Board. I have greatly appreciated the vision, guidance and support of Mr. Welker and Mrs. Wilson – both have worked tirelessly on behalf of the district and made significant contributions to the short- and long-term success of our students, staff and community.
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Policy

First Reading

701.4 Governmental Accounting Practices and Regulations, approved as amended

Initial Review

701.5 Post-Issuance Compliance Policy for Tax-Exempt Obligations, mark reviewed
703.3/R Preparation of the Working Budget Document, bring back for first reading.
704.1 Local – State – Federal – Miscellaneous Revenue, mark reviewed
704.2 Sale of Bonds, mark reviewed
704.3 Investments, mark reviewed
704.4/R Gifts, Grants, and Bequests, mark reviewed.
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Personnel – Click here.

Board tours MLA, learns about program

Eric Goslinga, principal at Marshalltown Learning Academy, led board members on a tour of the building before Monday’s board meeting, then shared updates on the program for 2014-2015.

MLA serves students who are identified as At-Risk, with a current capacity of 60 students. This year services were expanded to Grades 8-12 with a focus on competency based and self-paced learning through Personalized Extended Learning Opportunities (PELO).

PELOs are based on learning outside the traditional classroom through independent study, internships, apprenticeships, and online courses. It allows for flexibility for students and focuses on competency and demonstration of new skills.

Currently MLA has PELOs proposed, implemented or in progress in the following areas: AP Chemistry, AP Government, Basic Open Water SCUBA Diving, Red Cross Instructor Training, Microsoft IT Certifications (Word, Excel, game development), and Astronomy.

MLA is also focusing on increased parent and community involvement, including learning contracts with parents of students utilizing PELOs.

“We’re trying to get the home and community more involved in school,” Goslinga said. “Any credit done [through PELO] is done with the full knowledge of the parent. It keeps them engaged that way.”

Goslinga says MLA is changing to meet the needs of a changing society, providing more flexibility and education options rewarding competency and mastery.
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Board reviews ACT scores

The Board reviewed 2014 ACT scores Monday night, comparing them to state scores for the past five years.

The composite score for MCSD was 21.3, down from 22.0 in 2013. Iowa also saw a slight decrease in composite score, down to 22.0 from 22.1.

“They’re not where we’d like them to be,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement. She told the Board the district would look at previous exams to determine what questions are asked, what responses are students asked to deliver, and how we can better prepare students. She said this could include offering an ACT prep course, which some schools already offer.

In 2014 140 Marshalltown students took the ACT, up from 133 in 2013. Nearly 23,000 students across Iowa took the ACT this year.
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Board closes inactive fund, designates funding for activities

The Board closed Enterprise Fund 69, a fund once used for the Caring Connection, and transferred the remaining $43,119.16 to the Cell Tower Revenue fund.

The Board then approved allocating $20,000 to the Marshalltown High School Athletic Department to offset rental costs and loss of concession revenues during Roundhouse construction. The remaining $23,119.16 will be allocated to buildings on a per-pupil basis like the regular cell tower revenue.

The Board also approved transferring $40,000 from General Fund to the MHS Activity Fund to cover a portion of transportation costs. Craig Huegel, MHS Activities Director, told the Board he spoke with other CIML schools and they pay some or all of the activities transportation costs. During the 2013-2014 school year the MHS Activity Fund paid $84,000 for transportation services. Allocating $40,000 alleviates some of the burden, while still holding the Activity Fund accountable for part of the cost.
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Preschool playgrounds approved for all elementary schools

The Board approved a $332,200 bid to build preschool playgrounds at the District’s six elementary schools.

Brycon, LLC, was awarded the project, which is scheduled to begin this month and end in mid-November.
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Voluntary Early Retirement approved

The Board approved the Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive Program for 2014-2015.

Eligible staff members have until Feb. 2, 2015, to notify the Superintendent of their intent to participate.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade

Monday evening the Board of Education voted to reactivate the District’s Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive Program for the 2014-2015 school year. Eligible Licensed Teaching Staff, Twelve-Month Secretaries and Administrators now have until February 2, 2015 to notify the Superintendent of their intent to participate in voluntary early retirement at the end of this school year.

To be eligible for Voluntary Early Retirement, an employee must turn 55 before the first teacher contract day of 2015-2016, must have been employed by the District for at least 15 years and must be a regular full-time employee.

Any staff member contemplating retirement is encouraged to examine the Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program policy relevant to your employee classification (Licensed Teaching Staff, Twelve-Month Secretaries, and Administrators are Policies 314.1, 407.7 and 413.7, respectively). These policies can be found by going to the District website (www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us) and clicking on “School Board.” There is a link at the bottom of this page for the 300 Series and the 400 Series – where these policies are located.
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Change order approved for Roundhouse

The Board approved a change order for phase one of the Roundhouse project anticipated to cost $42,210.

The change order covers additional leveling material for the Roundhouse track area and is needed due to the amount of the track layer removed during asbestos abatement and settling over the 60 years since the original track was installed.

The change order falls within the contingency set aside in the construction budget for change orders.
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Board approves next steps toward next phase of Roundhouse work

The Board approved an agreement between RDG and MCSD to move forward with construction documents and planning for phase two of the Roundhouse project.

This is the portion of the Roundhouse project funded through the fundraising efforts of “Renovate the Roundhouse”. The owner/architect contract authorizes the continued construction document development.
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Curriculum/PD leaders meet Board

The Board met Curriculum and Professional Development Leaders Shauna Smith and Pam Brewer-Michael Monday night. Both are in new roles as part of the Teacher Leadership and Compensation Plan.

We have no doubt this is the right work at the right time,” said Shauna Smith, who serves as K-6 curriculum/PD leader. Brewer-Michael serves in that role for grades 7-12.

The role of the curriculum/PD leader is to “engage in the planning, development, implementation and impact of curriculum/professional development.”
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POLICY

Initial Review

700 Statement of Guiding Principles, reviewed
701 Financial Accounting System, reviewed
701.1 Depository of Funds, reviewed
701.2 Transfer of Inactive Account Funds, reviewed
701.4 Governmental Accounting Practices and Regulations, terminology changed to reflect changes at the state
703.1 Budget Planning, reviewed

PERSONNEL – Click here.

Food Service unveils new interactive menus, mobile app

Marshalltown Schools has a new menu system for students and families, including a free mobile app.

Lynn Large, food service director, told the board about Nutrislice, a service providing detailed, interactive menus to Marshalltown families. By clicking on “Menus” from the district website visitors can choose the building and type of menu they want to see (breakfast, lunch, gluten-free, etc.) Each menu item includes a photo, description, and nutritional information.

The free app, called School Lunch by Nutrislice, is available in the Apple App Store for iPhones and in Google Play for Android phones. The smartphone app shows each day’s menu, including pictures and descriptions of the foods. It also lists nutritional information for each food and makes finding common allergens simple.

The menus are in use now and available by visiting the district website and clicking “Menus” or by visiting http://marshalltown.nutrislice.com/
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Elementary handbooks approved

The Board approved updated elementary school handbooks Monday. The handbooks are available in English and Spanish under Parent Resources and on the home page of each elementary school website.
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Board reviews Management Fund

The Board reviewed the District Management Fund Monday evening in preparation for discussion about the Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive.

Marshalltown Schools tax $1.2 million annually for the Management Fund, which supports retiree insurance, worker’s compensation, and property/casualty insurance. The fund balance at the end of FY2014 was $1.583 million, about the same as the end of FY2013.

Kevin Posekany, director of business operations, said the stable balance shows the district is breaking even with the Management Fund. Each year some retirees come off of the Management Fund books as they reach the end of their early retirement incentive. This fiscal year about 18 retirees will come off of district-paid insurance at some point.

After discussing the fund, the Board looked at the Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive. Dr. Marvin Wade, superintendent of schools, told the Board the administration is recommending the Board reinstate early retirement for 2014-2015. The Board has until Sept. 30 to active the program for this year.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Monday evening, the Board of Education discussed reactivation of the District’s Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive Program for the 2014-2015 school year. The proposal was well-received and it is anticipated that action will be taken to reactivate the program during the September 8, 2014 board meeting.

If reactivated, eligible Licensed Teaching Staff, Twelve-Month Secretaries, and Administrators would have until February 2, 2015 to notify the Superintendent of their intent to participate in voluntary early retirement at the end of the current 2014-2015 fiscal year.

Individuals wanting to learn more about the Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive Program are encouraged to review these policies on the District website. At the website, merely click on “School Board” and go to links at the bottom of the page for the 300 Series and the 400 Series – where these policies are located.
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Scope of work approved for preschool playground projects

The Board approved scope of work and schedules for preschool playgrounds at District elementary schools. Bids are scheduled for receipt Sept. 4, with contract award tentatively scheduled Sept. 8.
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Facilities ready for start of school year

“It’s been a very short summer,” Pat Hemming, building operations supervisor, told the Board Monday. “The buildings are ready. The classrooms are ready.”

Hemming said 65 people helped clean more than 900,000 square feet this summer, working around construction projects and elementary summer programming that went through June and July.

“I’m very proud of them,” he said.

Rick Simpson, director of buildings and grounds, detailed some of the construction projects completed this summer, as well as looked at other projects on the horizon, including the preschool playgrounds (scope of work approved Monday).
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

As a matter of public procedures and the rules we as a Board must follow, any item that we discuss must be advertised on our published agenda and we must hold our meeting in public. It follows this procedure that any issue brought before the Board in our “Public Comments” segment are not previously advertised or posted as an agenda item. We can’t make any comment to these issues as it would violate the rules to take up a matter that was not previously advertised and listed on our approved agenda.

We have had several issues brought to our Board as part of public comment in recent months. We can not publically comment on items not listed on our agenda and further, any items that involve staff or students rights to privacy. We appreciate those that have called and commented on their understanding of the “facts” as presented in our public meeting. However, the District and Board policy is to be very prudent to protect privacy and follow the policies and procedures that are established to work through issues.

We welcome comments from the public as we want to hear from those that are concerned about our District, our policies, and our work. It is a basic part of America that taxpayers have a stake in our District, their concerns matter and will be heard.
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Policy

First Reading

604.6/604.6R Competent Private Instruction, based on IASB policy, bring back for second reading

Initial Review

605.2 Accountability Test Integrity/Test Preparation, mark reviewed.
605.3 Student Promotion – Retention, mark reviewed.
605.4/605.4R Graduation Requirements – Graduation Ceremonies, mark reviewed.
605.5 Education Records, bring back for first reading.
605.8 Media Centers, mark reviewed.
605.9 Physical Education, mark reviewed.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

Summer School programs planned across Marshalltown

Summer learning programs are slated to start next week in schools across Marshalltown.

Principals from the schools offering summer school came before the Board Monday night to discuss their programs and how they hope to increase student achievement and curb summer learning loss.

Marshalltown High School and Marshalltown Learning Academy are offering credit recovery through Edgenuity. Miller Middle School will serve about 60 students in reading, composition and mathematics. Lenihan Intermediate is supporting 18 students with Migrant Program funding to accelerate reading and math skills.

Anson Elementary will serve 150 students in reading and math and Hoglan will serve 120 students. Both schools will fund programming through a K-3 Early Innovation Grant. Hoglan will also serve some Migrant students from Fisher and Franklin elementary schools. Woodbury Elementary will serve a small group in reading and math.

Rogers Elementary will again host Rogers University, serving students in preschool through sixth grade from the Rogers Neighborhood. This year RU will include 12 Iowa State University students completing their practicum. They will be known as “graduate assistants” to continue the college theme. Rogers also received a K-3 Early Innovation Grant to support RU and the remainder will be funded through Mid-Iowa Community Action.

Summer programs look to serve 646 students.
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Board reviews student engagement data

The Instructional Practices Inventory showed more than 90 percent of classrooms had teachers and students engaged in learning during 3,351 classroom observations.

The IPI measures engagement of students and teachers on six levels, with “Student Active Engaged Learning” at the top and “Complete Disengagement” on the bottom. Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the Board IPI data is teacher driven, with teachers making the observations and consulting with peers to determine engagement levels. This school year’s observations were done in the fall and spring. Next year a third mid-year data collection will be added. Dr. Jerry Valentine will also return to Marshalltown this fall to discuss IPI collection and the use of technology.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Monday’s Board of Education meeting included reports from principals about summer learning opportunities within our schools. There was also a report from Director of Food Service Lynn Large about the Summer Feeding Program. It is great to be in a community where summer learning and meals continue to be provided during the summer at no cost to participants. As a district, we appreciate that students and parents take advantage of the opportunities provided in Marshalltown. We also appreciate the many staff who willingly work during the summer so these opportunities extend throughout the year. Have a safe and enjoyable summer.
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SIAC annual progress goals approved

The Board approved Annual Progress (APR) goals recommended by the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC).

In 2013-2014 Marshalltown Schools the projected gains in 8th grade science and reading and 11th grade mathematics. The approved goals for 2014-2015 are:

• The Marshalltown Community School District will increase the percentage of students attaining proficiency for each respective grade level as measured by the Reading Test of the Iowa Assessment.
• The Marshalltown Community School District will increase the percentage of students attaining proficiency for each respective grade level as measured by the Math Test of the Iowa Assessment.
• The Marshalltown Community School District will increase the percentage of students attaining proficiency for each respective grade level as measured by the Science Test of the Iowa Assessment.

Food Services prices set for 2014-2015

Most meal prices will increase 5 cents next year, with breakfast at Lenihan, Miller and MHS increasing 10 cents.

The Board approved the rates at Monday’s meeting after Lynn Large, director of food service, presented the proposal based on a 10 percent increase in food costs, a 3 percent increase in labor costs, and other expenses.

K-4 breakfast will increase to $1.20, lunch to $2.20 and individual milk to $0.35. All elementary buildings participate in breakfast in the classroom, which means breakfast K-4 will remain at no charge to students. Federal and state reimbursements cover the cost of those meals.

Grades 5-12 will pay $1.35 for breakfast and $2.35 for lunch. Adult breakfast will be $1.60 and lunch will be $3.25. Reduced-price meals will remain at $0.30/breakfast and $0.40/lunch.
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Summer Feeding Program begins June 9

Marshalltown Schools will again offer free meals to students under 18 years of age June 9-July 25 (except July 4).

Meals will be served from 11am to 12:15pm at nine locations:

• Anson Elementary
• Franklin Elementary
• Hoglan Elementary
• Rogers Elementary
• Woodbury Elementary
• Miller Middle School
• St. Francis School (new for 2014)
• Salvation Army (serving 11am-12pm)
• YMCA

Food Service anticipates serving 1,000 lunches daily.
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Grab n’ Go Breakfast Carts coming to Lenihan, Miller, MHS

Thanks to more than $21,000 in grant funding from Fuel Up to Play 60, Lenihan, Miller and MHS will have new “Grab n’ Go Breakfast Carts serving breakfasts that can be eaten in the classroom.

Traditional breakfast will still be available to students, but the grab n’ go option will include pre-packaged breakfast items that students can take with them. The option will be available before first period as well as between first and second period.
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Board approves contract settlement with MEA

The Board ratified the salary settlement with the Marshalltown Education Association Monday night, approving a 3.97 percent package increase.

Rex Ryden, Board attorney, detailed the settlement, which adds $800 to the BA base, increasing it to $31,615. A new teacher starting at BA Step 5 will make $36,673, a $928 increase.

There were also some contract language changes, including adjustment to positions on the supplemental page and change in maternity leave days.

The total additional cost to the District for the settlement is $873,500.
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Board renews membership with IASB, UEN

The Board renewed their membership with the Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) and the Urban Education Network (UEN).

Membership to IASB costs $11,000 and UEN costs $5,000.
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Anson Elementary east parking rebuild goes to bid

Plans are moving forward to rebuild the east parking lot at Anson Elementary. The Board approved the plans, scope of work, schedules and anticipated budget for the project, which is estimated to cost $221,043.

The Board asked the engineer to try to move up the timetable for receiving bids in order to ensure the project is completed for the start of school this fall.
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POLICY

Initial Review

602.5 Special Education, change legal wording.
602.6 Adult Education, mark reviewed.
602.7 Safety Education, mark reviewed.
602.8 Co-Curricular Activities, mark reviewed.
602.9/R1/R2 Curriculum Development, add “or designee” under #4, strike #11.
602.10 Federal Programs, mark reviewed.
602.11/R1 Use of Information Resources, mark reviewed.
602.12/E1/E2/E3/E4 Acceleration, mark reviewed.

PERSONNEL – Click here.

Donations accepted for Project Lead the Way

Alliant Energy and DEIMCO Finishing Equipment each presented the District with checks Monday night supporting Project Lead the Way.

Kirk Shirar presented a check for $6,000 from DEIMCO and David Vollmar from Alliant Energy presented a check for $5,000.
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Middle school pair headed to National History Day

Miller Middle School students Victoria Johnson and Jacqueline Wahl are heading to the nation’s capital next month to compete in the National History Day contest.

The students were recognized before the Board Monday evening along with Ann Jackson, Miller Extended Learning Program teacher. The Board also approved the duo’s out-of-state trip request to compete at nationals, which take place June 15-19, 2014, at the University of Maryland.

Read more about their exhibit here.
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Preschool program shifts to 4-day structure

Marshalltown Community School District preschoolers will not have classes on Wednesdays starting this fall.

Emily Banks, district preschool coordinator, told the Board the change will provide for better teacher collaboration, time for Individual Education Plan (IEP) meetings, and required home visits. It also alleviates some equity issues with Wednesday classes, as schools dismiss one hour early, so students in the afternoon preschool classes are at school a shorter amount of time than students in the AM sections.

Banks said this change, which was communicated through the registration process in April and during IEP meetings, has been well received since the short Wednesday afternoon classes have been a transportation and daycare headache for parents.

The State of Iowa requires preschool students receive 10 hours of instruction each week following the Quality Preschool Programming Standards. Class sizes are capped at 20 students. Marshalltown Schools has nine preschool classrooms with 18 sections, with classes held in the morning and afternoon.
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First TLC positions filled

The Board approved hiring the first slate of teacher leadership positions Monday night as part of the Teacher Leadership Compensation Plan.

Marshalltown Community School District is in the first group of Iowa school districts selected to launch teacher leadership systems next school year.

Teacher leadership systems will allow teachers to work in greater collaboration with colleagues and school administrators to improve instruction and increase student achievement. Out of Iowa’s 346 school districts, 146 applied to start teacher leadership systems in 2014-15 and 39 were selected.

Marshalltown’s teacher leadership model includes model teachers, instructional coaches and curriculum and professional development leaders working together to support the District goal of increasing student achievement. Monday evening the Board approved hiring the instructional coaches and curriculum/professional development leaders.

Instructional Coaches

• Anson: Kim Hurley
• Hoglan: Lora Kester
• Fisher: Jennifer August
• Franklin: Melanie Knoll
• Rogers: Sabrina Russell
• Woodbury: Elizabeth Overstake
• Lenihan: Erica Finders, Jenny Allen
• Miller: Sammi Jo Luse, Cherilyn Reed
• MHS: Dee Burt, Kristyn Kell

Curriculum/Professional Development Leaders

• Elementary: Shauna Smith
• Secondary: Pam Brewer-Michael

Instructional coaches will receive an additional $5,000 stipend and 10 additional contract days. Curriculum/PD leaders receive an additional $10,000 stipend and 15 additional contract days.

The District will next select model classroom teachers, who will receive a $2,000 additional stipend and 5 additional contract days.
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Paraeducator contract approved

The Board approved a contact with the union representing paraeducators Monday.

The total package increase for 2014-2015 is 3.59 percent, approximately $113,000 in additional costs.

The agreement increases immediate family illness leave from two days to four, “for purposes of administering to the needs of sick minor children or dependent adult children.” The agreement also adds grandchildren to the list of immediate family for bereavement leave purposes.

The wage scale will be condensed from 27 steps to 15 and include an across-the-board increase totaling 3.59 percent.

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Board moves forward with Miller locker room remodeling

The boys’ locker rooms at Miller Middle School will receive an upgrade this year. The Board approved a project to renovate the facilities, with work slated to being in late June and conclude in early October.

The project includes reinforcing the existing roof to accept new rooftop air handling and energy recovery units. The bulk of the existing locker rooms have not been remodeled since the 1960s, so most of the interior will be updated and made handicap accessible.

Construction costs are expected to be near $414,000.

While work is in progress a room near the gym will be converted to a temporary boys locker room.

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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the Board approved the renovation plans for the Miller Middle School Boys Locker Rooms. Many remember the area where this renovation will happen and the need to upgrade the remaining areas of the 1927 building. We appreciate the time is has taken to do a full renovation at Miller and we are now closing on the final phase of work in the Auditorium.

The Roundhouse renovation is continuing even with weather delays from the past winter and spring. We are planning to close the building after graduation and have been told to expect the work complete about Thanksgiving of this fall. Please, bear with us as parking and access to the Roundhouse will be a challenge this graduation. We expect a spectacular result and air conditioning when the building reopens.

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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

The majority of staff are aware of the importance Marshalltown Schools places on improving the “instructional core”- the classroom environment where engaged students, quality teaching and challenging content combine to influence student success. Monday’s Board of Education meeting included an update on two opportunities to significantly influence the instructional core: Teacher Leadership and Compensation System, and Iowa Competency-Based Education Collaborative.

Teacher Leadership and Compensation allows Marshalltown Schools to expand leadership opportunities for teachers in ways that will accelerate district-wide implementation of Comprehensive Literacy Model and Sheltered Instruction, as well as alignment of curriculum with the Iowa Core.

Competency-Based Education (CBE) is a logical extension of our work in Common Unit Design because CBE promotes a shift from seat time and Carnegie Units to a focus on student progression at a rate consistent with the student’s individual learning needs. “Personalized learning” is one term often used in CBE.  Others are “anytime/anyplace,” “real world” and “24/7” learning. Regardless of which term is preferred, CBE will serve an important role in our Mission “to nurture students to become personally and intellectually empowered for citizenship in a changing world.”

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Online payment option to be implemented next school year

Marshalltown Schools will be able to accept online payments for things like lunch accounts this fall.

The District has researched online payment and online registration options this year and reported its progress to the Board Monday night. Jason Staker, communications director, told the Board they had reviewed online payment systems, talked to other districts, and had presentations and discussions with vendors. There are a few more steps to take before the committee is prepared to select a single vendor for online payment, but Staker reported the consensus was a choice would be made and ready for implementation in the fall.

“Online payment was the first step,” Staker said. “It sounds like a simple thing, but in fact there are a lot of questions that go into it, including understanding bank accounts and how and where money is deposited.”

Staker told the Board online payments could be done without having online registration, but not vice versa. Online registration is the next item the group will address. Staker and David Stanfield, instructional design specialist, told the Board they will work with the registrar and Human Resources department in order to determine how best to implement an online registration component.

The committee that looked into online registration included Staker; Stanfield; Kevin Posekany, director of business operations; Jody Brintnall, business office manager; and Jeff Weinberg, director of information technology.
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POLICY

First Reading

402.6, 402.6R, 402.6R1 Social Media Responsibility, waive second reading.
602.3 Senior High School Curriculum, waive second reading.

Initial Review – Tabled until June 2 meeting.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.
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