The Board Report

View PDF version here.

MHS students heading to international Envirothon

The Board approved sending the MHS Envirothon team to the international Envirothon in Bozeman, Montana, this summer. The MHS team was the state champion and for the seventh time in 14 years will compete at the international competition.

Read more about the Envirothon here.
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Digital Conversion initiative to bring 1500 Chromebooks to District in 2014

Beginning in the second semester of 2013-2014, students in 7-12 science and third and fourth grade will have access to Chromebooks in their classrooms.

This is the first step in the District’s Digital Conversion initiative, integrating technology into daily instruction and teaching students the digital literacy skills needed for success in the 21st Century.

Besides the Samsung Chromebooks, the District is also investing in online learning resources Learning.com and Edgenuity.com, which provide a wide array of content, virtual labs, lesson planning tools, and individualized learning tools for students at all levels.

The District has also invested in a dense wireless network and fiber optic network upgrade that will support this technology, while also increasing overall network speed.

The District will begin training staff this summer, with plans for implementation in second semester. In 2014-2015 the District plans to roll out devices in sixth grade and all other 7-12 grade classrooms, with K-2 and fifth grade rollout in 2015-2016.

To view the PowerPoint from the Board presentation, click here.
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Meal prices increased by 10 cents

School meal prices will increase by 10 cents for 2013-2014.

The Board approved increasing K-4 breakfast and lunch to $1.15 and $2.15 respectively and 5-12 breakfast and lunch to $1.20 and $2.30 respectively. Adult breakfast and lunch increase to $1.55 and $3.20 respectively. Milk and reduced-price breakfast and lunch costs will remain the same.
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Buses purchased from Hoglund

The District is purchasing two new school buses from Hoglund Bus Sales in Marshalltown.

Transportation Director Don Meyer said the buses were part of the routine replacement schedule. Three buses are being traded in for a net gain of $4,050. The Buses, purchased in 1992, 1994 and 1999, are worn out from use and their bodies have begun to deteriorate from salt erosion related to winter driving.

The new buses are 2014 models. One is 35-passenger and the other 65-passenger.

The District purchased a used bus earlier this spring as well.
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District realigns At-Risk programming

To best serve the needs of all students services must be consistently aligned across the District at all grade levels. That was the message Matt Cretsinger, director of special services, brought to the Board as he outlined plans to realign District At-Risk programming.

Cretsinger says the District is creating a systemic approach to meet student needs, including a central contact point at each building and clear guidelines on how to access resources. Penny Duer, who currently serves as K-4 At-Risk coordinator, will remain in that role and Eric Goslinga will become Secondary Coordinator of At-Risk Services in addition to serving as administrator of Marshalltown Learning Academy.

The realigned services will allow for an expanded continuum of services and allow student access earlier than ninth grade. Competency-based instruction and online resources such as Edgenuity.com will allow for students to complete coursework and gain necessary skills without necessarily repeating courses.

At-Risk students are identified by the following criteria: attendance, behavior, failing grades, Iowa Assessments scores, English Language Learner status and Low Socioeconomic status.

To view the PowerPoint of the Board presentation, click here.
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Elementary schedules discussed by Board

The Board discussed proposed changes to elementary daily schedules for 2013-2014 at Monday’s meeting.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, said they plan to change the first bell to 8:15am for breakfast at the elementary schools, with the tardy bell at 8:30am. Buildings will have 30 minutes of recess time a day and 90 minutes of Physical Education time in a 6-day cycle.

Several parents and teachers spoke to the Board and expressed concern about changes, saying it will reduce the amount of recess time and the quality of physical activity. They also said they didn’t see a correlation between reducing recess time and increasing test scores.

The plan to change schedules came after a Department of Education site visit in January 2013 recommended increasing instructional minutes for elementary students by 1,300 minutes a year.

Dr. Pecinovsky said elementary principals are still working out the details of their schedules for 2013-2014 and aligning them so students across the district receive the same amount of instruction and physical activity regardless of school building.
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Asbestos abatement contract awarded to Abatement Specialties, LLC

Abatement Specialties, LLC, of Cedar Rapids will conduct an asbestos abatement at Miller Middle School.

The company had the low bid of $68,580, with an alternate bid option added for a total of $70,080. The abatement is part of the work to remodel the 1957 classroom section of the middle school.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

With 2012-2013 rapidly coming to an end, I want to thank everyone for making this such a memorable year for the students of MCSD. I hope you’ll be able to celebrate the end of the school year by attending upcoming events like the MEA/MCSD Spring Recognition Tea (May 15), Science Bound Spring Honors Banquet (May 17), MHS Commencement (May 26), and picnics at numerous schools.

Looking ahead, the summer months seem to go quickly and there is always much to be accomplished, so tonight’s board meeting included several topics for the 2013-2014 school year – handbooks, schedules, construction, bus purchases, food service prices, technology and at-risk service delivery. This enthusiasm to get a “jump start” on next year is just one indicator that continuous (accelerated) improvement is something all Bobcats can expect to see from your Marshalltown Community School District. I look forward to a strong finish to 2012-2013 and getting to work on making 2013-2014 even better.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

The technology department has recommended purchasing 1500 new Chromebooks for use in all of our 3-4 grade classrooms and in science and math classroom for grades 7-12. This mission also includes rewiring and upgrading our internet and district infrastructure to high speed fiber optics which boost our performance by over 200 times current access speed and capacity.

This is the first year of a 3-year plan to put 30 wireless computers in every classroom here at MCSD. The district will begin training this summer, upgrade the infrastructure, and put many of the supporting systems and policies in place. The new notebooks will be in the classrooms by second semester (January 2014). This will change the way we approach learning, instruction, and will prepare our students for our changing world.
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POLICY

Initial Review

405.11 Teachers – Functions, mark reviewed.
405.12 School Nurse – Functions, mark reviewed.
406.1 Salary Schedule, mark reviewed.
406.3 Licensed Employees – Professional Growth, mark reviewed.
406.4 Licensed Employees – Compensation for Extra Duty, mark reviewed.
406.5 Licensed Employees – Group Insurance Benefits, bring back for first reading.
406.6 Annuities – Licensed, mark reviewed.
406.7 Prior Service, define “placement” as on the salary schedule.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

View the PDF version here.

Five new HP laptops are heading to the Miller Middle School language arts department thanks to a grant from the EMC Insurance Foundation. Representatives from EMC were on hand Monday night to present the laptops to the district and be recognized for their contribution.

Forensics students heading to nationals

For the fifth consecutive year, Marshalltown High School is sending students to the National Forensics League national championship.

MHS juniors Abby Snyder and Ilene Finn will represent MHS and Iowa in Birmingham, Alabama, this June. Both will compete in Legislative Debate. This is Finn’s first year qualifying for nationals, while Snyder’s third – she has qualified each year she’s been in high school.

Dr. Janelle Hawk, who leads the forensics program, said they are actively fundraising to support the trip. She said there are many students active in the program and there are many young students who are showing promise.

Read more about Abby and Ilene’s road to nationals here.
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MHS band plans trip to Kansas City

The Marshalltown High School concert bands will compete in the 2014 Worlds of Fun Festival of Bands held in Kansas City, Mo.

Bret Lee, director of bands, told the Board the band likes to take a regional trip in between the major national trips every four years. He said they like to make sure the trip is for a competition and is within driving distance.

Students will need to pay a $50 deposit by early June for the trip, with the remainder of funds coming from the annual pasta dinner, fruit sales and other fundraisers. He said they always make provisions for students who work hard at fundraising but fall short, so no one is unable to go because of lack of funds.

At the Festival of Bands MHS will have two concert bands compete.
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Board takes first look at Iowa Assessments results

Results from the 2013 Iowa Assessments are in and the scores show both progress and areas for improvement.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, said the District received the results about a week ago and is in the preliminary stages of analyzing them. She presented District-level scores to the Board according to the reporting calendar in the Strategic Action Plan.

In reading, fourth, eighth and eleventh grade all saw growth from 2011-2012, though only fourth grade met the projected gains in the SAP. In math, eighth grade met the projections.

Among students scoring in the “advanced” range on the Iowa Assessments, the District saw gains in reading at all levels, meeting all SAP projections. Projections were not met in math. The District also met the projection for college and career readiness in reading, but not in math.

“In reading we seem to be on a more positive trend than in math,” Pecinovsky said.

Pecinovsky also noted the District is starting to see more English Language Learners scoring in the “advanced” range.

In the area of non-proficient students making more than a year’s growth in a year’s time, the 2012-2013 scores are baseline. Since the new Iowa Assessments were only implemented last year, growth projections couldn’t be made until after this year.

Pecinovsky said the next steps are to delve into the data and determine what areas are lacking and how the District can continue growth where it is seen and improve it where it’s missing. This may involve a work session with the Board at a later date.
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Roundhouse roof replacement enters bidding process

The first step of the Roundhouse renovation will be replacing the roof.

The project, which will cost an estimated $475,000, will go to bid in May, with formal bid awards on June 3. The substantial completion date of the project is Aug. 20, 2013.
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Garling Construction to oversee Miller 1957 classroom remodeling

Garling Construction of Belle Plaine will complete the Miller Middle School 1957 classroom remodeling.

Garling’s bid of $1,711,000 includes three alternates: added fire membrane, air conditioning and vinyl composition flooring. Substantial completion date for the classrooms and lower level restrooms is Aug. 16, 2013. Completion date for thee main and upper level restrooms is Jan. 4, 2014.
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MHS electrical upgrade awarded

Price Industrial Electrical, Inc., from Hiawatha will complete the medium voltage electrical upgrades at Marshalltown High School.

Price was the only company to submit a bid for the project, which came in $400,000 over architect estimates at $1,428,605. With the addition of an alternate for an information technology generator, the project with cost $1,494,330.

Several Board members were concerned with the high cost compared to architect estimates. Board president Sherm Welker said the Design Advisory Committee had the same concerns, but felt waiting another year to do the bid process would not result in substantial savings.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

To monitor the quality of education provided to our students MSCD collects data on a number of indicators including the percent of high school students taking college level coursework, attendance and graduation rates, and Iowa Assessments results (as reported during the board meeting).

Our 2013 Iowa Assessments results provide us with reason to celebrate and cause for concern. Analysis of the results should also contribute to better alignment of curriculum, instruction and assessment that will ultimately benefit students. I am confident our attention-to-detail in this analysis/adjustment process will lead to continued increases in student achievement.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the Board moved forward on several new building projects. We have much to do, as Miller will be undergoing new restrooms and classroom renovations to the 1957 wing (above the cafeteria). Support Services (old Anson Middle School) will have the upper floors remodeled to further the move of our District Administration to this new location. Marshalltown High School will start new lab classrooms for Project Lead the Way, roofing on the Roundhouse, high voltage power renovations for the entire campus, and the start of the major Roundhouse renovations this fall.

Most of these projects have been on the capital improvement plan for many years back to “pre-bond issue” dates of the late 1990s and early 2000s. These building needs were assessed and listed long before the terms of the current Board members, much of the Administration team, and many of the MCSD staff. It is reassuring to know that we are continuing to building our district as those before us had planned, and all share the responsibility of providing excellence in building environments and programs, opportunities for our students and staff, and pride in our community.

Thank you for your support and encouragement.
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POLICY

First Reading

405.8 Evaluation, rewritten according to IASB policy, waive second reading.

405.10 Access to Buildings, added keycards to language, waive second reading.
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PERSONNEL – Click here (PDF).
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View PDF version here.

Celebrate School Library Month

April is School Library Month, so the teacher librarians of Marshalltown Community School District came to the Board meeting Monday to share some of the ways they connect students with books, learning and the larger community.

In just the first semester students visited the school libraries 40,000 times, checking out 91,000 items. Teacher librarians have started before and after school reading programs, held library sleep-overs, and helped students use technology in learning. Each librarian told the board about specific events and programs started at their schools.

Marshalltown’s teacher librarians are Sue Inhelder (MHS), David Stanfield (Miller), Erin Feingold (Lenihan), Jeni Sloan (Hoglan), Beth Steffa (Anson), Alicia Patten (Fisher), John Fritz (Franklin), Ellen Youds (Rogers) and Sue Cahill (Woodbury).
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Manis named next Anson principal 

Ronnie Manis will be the next principal at Anson Elementary School starting July 1, 2013.

Read more here.
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Positive feedback from Dept. of Ed site visit

The report from the Department of Education is overwhelmingly positive after a Site Visit Jan. 15-17, 2013.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, presented a summary of the formal Site Visit report, which noted strengths and recommendations in seven categories: Vision, Mission & Goals; Leadership; Collaborative Relationships; Learning Environment; Curriculum & Instruction; Professional Development; Monitoring and Accountability.

The district had three areas of non-compliance, which have been corrected and submitted to the Department of Education. Dr. Pecinovsky said as of the Board meeting Monday the District was in complete compliance.

To view the Site Visit Summary presentation, click here.
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Board approves 2013-14 budget 

The Board approved the District budget for 2013-2014 Monday.

The budget is based on zero percent allowable growth and the 1 percent budget guarantee. Since the state legislature has not set allowable growth for the next year, the budget is based on “worst case scenario”. Finance Director Kevin Posekany told the Board this uncertainty was also the reason for a 30-cent increase per $1000 valuation in property taxes to $17.84. He said the Board could always go back and reduce the tax levy after the state sets allowable growth, but they cannot go back and increase them, which is why it is set higher to start. He told the Board once allowable growth is set they should be able to reduce the tax levy back to 2012-2013 levels.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

The Board of Education’s approval of the fiscal year 2014 budget was another step in the process of clarifying how monies to be received during the 2013-2014 school year will be spent. Among the factors included in these allocation decisions are district priorities, board policy, and current knowledge of federal and state funding levels.

Now that the budget has been adopted, the next step is to align expenditures with district priorities, without changing the total to be expended. These adjustments will be made between now and the end of June based upon factors such as curricular needs, compensation packages and operational costs (e.g. utilities and transportation fuel).  Reports will be made about these adjustments as additional information becomes available regarding changes in state revenue and district commitments for 2013-2014.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight we formally reviewed the Site Visit Report from the Iowa Department of Education. The report summarized the findings of the inspection team that came here in January of this year. The team interviewed staff, administration, students, parents, and community members while looking through our procedures, plans, training, credentials, curriculum, testing scores, policies, and reviewing the quality of service we are achieving in our school district. (Sounds almost like an IRS audit or visit to the Dentist if you ask me.)

We had been given a verbal report when the team completed the inspection and all of the points were confirmed by the written report. It is my privilege to summarize the results and say the Marshalltown School District passed with flying colors! The inspection team remarked that all members of our team know and understand the implementation of the Strategic Action Plan and the measurements that enable the Board, administration, and staff to monitor our progress. There are many facets to encourage and motivate student achievement, and the SAP identifies our plan and our results. We are very pleased that only a few minor paperwork / policy issues were needing adjustment as a result of the inspection and those items were all corrected in February after they were identified. Marshalltown is in full compliance and ready to grow and advance as we have planned.

Thank you to all parties involved with the Site Visit and our progress. We look forward to all of the opportunities the future will bring here in Marshalltown.
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POLICY

First Reading

405.3 Licensed Employee Individual Contracts, waive second reading.

Initial Review

405.6 Certification, mark reviewed with citation of Iowa Code.

405.7 Assignment and Transfer, mark reviewed with citation of Iowa Code.

405.8 Evaluation, bring back revisions based on IASB policy.

405.10 Access to Buildings, rewrite to align with current practices.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.
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View PDF version here.

R.S. Stover presented the District with a check for $5,000 Monday to support the implementation of Project Lead the Way at Marshalltown High School.

Huegel next MHS activities director

Craig Huegel will be the next activities director at Marshalltown High School.

Read more here.
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Board reviews proposed budget

The Board reviewed the proposed district budget for 2013-2014 Monday.

The budget is based on zero percent allowable growth and the 1 percent budget guarantee. Since the state legislature has not set allowable growth for the next year, the budget is based on “worst case scenario”. Finance Director Kevin Posekany told the Board this uncertainty was also the reason for a 30-cent increase per $1000 valuation in property taxes to $17.84. He said the Board could always go back and reduce the tax levy after the state sets allowable growth, but they cannot go back and increase them, which is why it is set higher to start. He told the Board once allowable growth is set they should be able to reduce the tax levy back to 2012-2013 levels.

The Board will vote on adopting the budget at the April 1 meeting.
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Four Oaks to provide intensive services for At-Risk students 

Four Oaks, a non-profit organization that provides a variety of educational and therapeutic services to At-Risk youth, will house three classrooms at Marshalltown Learning Academy beginning next year.

Matt Cretsinger, director of special services, told the Board about this partnership, which will include two conduct disorder settings and one therapeutic classroom to serve up to 35 students.

“It’s the best way to support our students,” Cretsinger said of the partnership. “They’re willing to adjust to what our needs are.”

Currently the District sends six students out of the district to receive the services Four Oaks can provide, the cost of which is $55,000 to $105,000 per student. Cretsinger noted that with outside placement the District has no say in the education provided and it makes for successful transition back into the regular school setting difficult. Many outside service providers are also closing or changing the scope of their services. Bringing Four Oaks to classrooms within the district means the students will receive the services they need using district curriculum and without the need for extended daily travel.

“[Students] have to be set up for success in an environment where they can learn,” Cretsinger said.

Four Oaks will provide three Special Education teachers, six youth counselors and one program coordinator. Cretsinger will oversee the program for the district. He says having the classrooms at MLA will also provide more opportunities for district staff to learn about intensive instruction.

“They want to be a partner to our district,” he said. “They want to meet our needs.”

The contract with Four Oaks is for one year, with the potential to review up to three years. The cost for the first year is $571,000, which will be covered by funds previously needed to enroll and transport students with outside service providers.

Superintendent Marvin Wade said having Four Oaks in district allows all students to receive services they need.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

The Board’s approval of a contract with Four Oaks will allow MCSD to provide specialized services to a select group of high need students within our District. Four Oaks will be housed in the same building as Marshalltown Learning Academy, but will serve a different group of students than MLA. MLA will continue its focus on assisting students who are at-risk of not graduating, while Four Oaks will serve up to 35 students who have conduct disorders or mental health therapeutic needs, and some students who are at-risk of expulsion. The addition of this program is one of many steps taken by MCSD to meet our objective of “providing a safe and supportive environment for learning.” I look forward to future reports about the success of Four Oaks and MLA in meeting this objective.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight we met our new Activity Director, Craig Huegel and family: wife, Jen; son, Andrew (6); and daughter, Kerigan (20 months).

Craig will be taking the lead of Athletics during a very critical time in our district as the new Roundhouse project starts this summer. He is highly qualified and will have full support of the administration and staff as he begins a new legacy here in Marshalltown. Many thanks to Tim Bell for his long and successful tenure here in Marshalltown with students, athletics, coaching and programs. As with all of the of the retirees, we attempt to replace their skills and abilities, and know that we create challenges and possibilities for new people to come here to our community and educational programs. Welcome to Craig and family!

The budget remains a big topic of our work on the Board. As many know, the legislature and Governor’s office have been debating education finding policy for over a year without much success. We are negotiating with our employees, setting budgets for expenses all without knowing if we will get any additional funding from the state. We all agree that education funding needs to be changed, but lack of action and disagreement will not help us get where we need to be anytime soon. We will keep you posted on our plan as this continues.
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MHS activity ticket price raised

The Board approved increasing the price of high school activity passes for 2013-2014.

All season adult activity passes will increase $10 to $90. Senior citizen passes (age 62 and up) will also increase $10 to $50. The cost for employee and employee spouse passes increases $5 to $20. High school student passes will increase $5 to $45. Middle school student passes will increase to $40.

Passes for students in grades K-6, as well as district retirees will remain free.
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Food service truck purchased

Food Service will purchase a new truck from O’Halloran’s in Altoona for $80,570.

Two bids were received for the truck. A second bid, from Freightliner, was $1,801 less than O’Halloran’s, but did not meet the specifications needed. The O’Halloran’s truck can also be serviced in Marshalltown.

Food service will sell its 1996 truck and use its 2000 truck as a backup. The new truck will be used for delivering breakfast and lunch to the elementary schools from the satellite kitchen at Marshalltown High School. Food Service Director Vickie McVey told the Board the truck delivers about 2,400 lunches daily.
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Bus purchased from Hoglund

The District will purchase a 2004 32-passenger bus from Hoglund Bus Company for $22,000.

Transportation Director Don Meyer said the buss needed two thermal window panes replaced, but otherwise was in good working order and had been inspected by the district mechanic.

Purchase of the used bus saves $50,000-$60,000. The regular replacement schedule had plans to replace one preschool/special education bus and two 65-passenger buses 2013-2014, but there was a need for two of the smaller 32-passenger uses.

Purchasing the used bus now means the district will purchase one 65-passenger bus and an additional preschool/special education bus after July 1, 2013.
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Two projects move into bid process

The District will send to bid two projects – an electrical upgrade at Marshalltown High School and the 1957 wing remodel at Miller Middle School.

The electrical upgrade includes underground conduit and conductors, new transformers and new secondary service and electrical panel boards. Work on this project is some of the infrastructure required to begin the Roundhouse renovation.

The Miller project includes remodeling 9,258 square feet on two floors, including classrooms and restrooms. The project will also add air conditioning to the 1957 classroom addition.

Both projects are part of the District Facilities Plan and will no go to the bidding process. Both are scheduled for completion before the start of the 2013-2014 school year.
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Personnel – Click here.
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Policy

Initial Review

405.2 Licensed Employee Qualifications, Recruitment, Selection, mark reviewed.

405.3 Licensed Employee Individual Contracts, modify to say contracts will be not more than one year.

405.4 Licensed Employee Continuing Contracts, mark reviewed.

405.5 Licensed Employee Work Day, mark reviewed.
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View the PDF version here.

MMSC supports Project Lead the Way at MHS

Marshalltown Medical & Surgical Center donated $30,000 toward implementation of Project Lead the Way at Marshalltown High School.

Dr. Terry Briggs, chairman of the MMSC Board of Trustees, presented a check to School Board President Sherm Welker Monday night. Funds will go to support the implementation of a Biomedical Sciences program at MHS.
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Graduation rate increases 8% 

The Marshalltown Community School District graduation rate increased nearly 8 percent from 2011 to 2012 according to figures released by the Iowa Department of Education this week.

Read the full story on on our news blog, Bobcats Making Headlines.
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District looks at updating safety procedures 

Marshalltown Schools are partnering with the Marshalltown Police Department to review safety policies and train staff in new approaches to school safety.

Police Chief Mike Tupper and high school associate principal Deb Holsapple told the Board about training held with district administration Saturday, March 2, on ALICE: Alert Lockdown Inform Counter Evacuate.

ALICE is a system to respond to an active shooter threat inside an office, school, etc. Tupper said it’s a system many in law enforcement have believed in for years and it’s now gaining momentum across the country.

Instead of the traditional lockdown model, where students and teachers hide in a classroom, ALICE encourages people to evacuate as soon as possible, as well as fight back if necessary by throwing chairs, barricading doors, etc.

“These are things I’ve been teaching my kids for 20 years,” Tupper said. He was adamant ALICE was not about teaching children to fight armed gunmen. Instead, it was about teaching staff how to be alert and letting children know it’s okay to escape, even if it means breaking windows.

“It’s important to arm your staff with options beyond lockdown,” he said. “If we don’t teach people that there are options, they won’t know.”

Lisa Koester, director of human resources, said the next step for the district is to review the district safety plans. These were developed in 2000 and are reviewed annually by schools, but the district will now do a more comprehensive review with the MPD.

Buildings and Grounds director Rick Simpson also noted some safety upgrades across the district that have already been implemented in recent years, such as security cameras at the high school and more secure entrances at several buildings.
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Pedro Gomez, who won the Class 3A 285-pound state wrestling title, was recognized in front of the School Board Monday night, along with his coach, Mike Mann. Gomez plans to attend Ellsworth Community College after graduating from Marshalltown High School, where he will play football and wrestle. Gomez is the first Bobcat to claim a state wrestling title since 2003.

Board approves 2012 audit report

Mary Babinat from accounting firm Nolte, Cornman & Johnson presented the 2012 district audit report Monday night.

The report showed General Fund revenues increased by $2.67 million in fiscal year 2012 and expenditures increased by $2.55 million. The district solvency ration, which is the unassigned fund balance divided by revenues (minus AEA flow-through funds) increased to 6.94 percent from 6.21 percent in 2011. Board President Sherm Welker noted the Board’s new financial planning committee has set a goal of increasing the solvency ratio to between 8 and 10 percent.

The audit had some recommendations for the district, including segregation of duties, making sure all contract changes and fundraisers are approved by the board and the Board president signs all contracts.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the MCSD Board had a safety and security briefing from staff and Chief Tupper on our district buildings and policies. We will continue to train and educate our staff and students on the latest standards being developed on violent intruder procedures. As Chief Tupper stated, we have fire and tornado drills even though the last loss of life for fire in a school happened in 1958, and tornado loss in in 1978. We need to actively train for violent attacks as they are predominately a much larger threat in today’s world. We will continue to coordinate our procedures with local law enforcement so they will know what we are doing should they be called to respond. We are encouraged that our local officials have our security at the paramount of their thoughts and actions.

We are very fortunate to live here in Marshalltown and for years have seen living in the Midwest as a “safe haven” free from the tragedies we see in the news. We can no longer depend on the safety of our location and must prepare for the worst case. While the district has always had a plan for such an occurrence, many thoughts and procedures have changed since the latest tragedies have taken place.

As always, this is a great place to live and raise our families. We will strive to keep our policies strict to the possibilities, but gentle to those we are privileged to educate and serve.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

While Federal and State officials publicly grapple over issues such as sequestration and allowable growth, our local Board of Education has diligently focused on developing a budget for the 2013-2014 school year. Instructional Support Levy and Budget Guarantee resolutions have been approved, the budget will be presented as an informational item on March 18, and both Public Hearing and Budget Adoption will occur April 1. As other elected officials struggle for control, it is reassuring to see MCSD board members work closely together to provide the best possible education for the students and families of our community.

I encourage everyone to attend the Marshalltown High School Community Open House on Thursday, March 7, from 5:00-8:00 pm. The fourth annual MHS Community Open House is a project of MHS Parent Networking to showcase our great students and school to community members – especially those who may have limited contact with Marshalltown High School.
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POLICY

Second Reading

703.4/E – Fiscal Management – Performance Measures, adopted as amended.

First Reading

403.1 – Employee Physical Examinations, add paragraph on blood-borne pathogens, waive second reading.

403.4 – Hazardous Chemical Right to Know, add “or designee” after superintendent, waive second reading.

403.5 – Harassment – Employees, add “or designee” after superintendent, waive second reading.

703.5 – Finance Committee, waive second reading.

Initial Review

403.6/E/R – Substance-Free Workplace, mark reviewed.

404.1/R – Employee Appearance, mark reviewed.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.
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View PDF version here.

Interest in Project Lead the Way growing

Emerson Process Management – Fisher Division pledged $75,000 over three years to PLTW.

Iowa Veterans Home donated $2,500 in support of PLTW.

Lennox Industries pledged $30,000 over three years to PLTW.

The Marshalltown Economic Development Impact Committee (MEDIC) donated $60,000 toward PLTW.

Interest in Project Lead the Way is high among students, parents, and community leaders, says Aiddy Phomvisay, principal at Marshalltown High School.

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is “the leading provider of rigorous and applied science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) curriculum in the United States”. Gateway to Technology (GTT), the middle school component of PLTW, began at Miller last fall, replacing the old Modular Tech curriculum. In GTT, students participate in eight independent units focused on design and modeling, automation and design, and other STEM areas.

PLTW expands to Marshalltown High School in fall 2013, with the introduction of the Pathway To Engineering (PTE) and Biomedical Sciences Program (BMS).

Course offerings at MHS will include Principles of Biomedical Science, Introduction to Engineering, and Principles of Engineering. Each course in the PLTW program will earn students college credit.

“These are the things the kids are interested in and want to be involved in,” Phomvisay said.

To prepare for PLTW courses, MHS will receive two new state-of-the-art computer labs with the latest in software and technology. The school has received a $35,000 grant to start the PLTW program at the high school level and at Monday’s Board meeting accepted checks from a number of local business and organizations to support PLTW implementation.

Emerson Process Management – Fisher Division has pledged $75,000 over three years to PLTW. The Marshalltown Economic Development Committee (MEDIC) is giving $60,000. Lennox Industries has pledged $30,000 over three years and the Iowa Veterans Home is giving $2,500.

Phomvisay said Marshalltown Medical and Surgical Center has also pledged support, though the amount has not been finalized. There is also a partnership with Marshalltown Community College to provide college credit for the PLTW courses.

Students are in the process of signing up for fall 2013 courses at MHS right now and Phomvisay says interest in both Pathways to Engineering and Biomedical Sciences is great.
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Anzis a US Presidential Scholar candidate 

Marshalltown High School senior Ben Anzis is a candidate for the prestigious US Presidential Scholars program.

Established in 1964 by presidential order, the program honors the nation’s most distinguished graduating seniors. Anzis is currently among a pool of elite high school students who will vie for one of 560 semifinalist positions. Each year up to 141 students are named Presidential Scholars.

In order to be eligible for this recognition, students must be high school seniors who “score exceptionally well on either the SAT of the College Board or the ACT of the American College Testing Program or be nominated by their Chief State School Officer (CSSO) based on outstanding scholarship.”

Semifinalists will be announced in early April, with the Presidential Scholars being named in May.

Anzis was recognized before the School Board at Monday night’s meeting. He told the Board he plans to attend MIT or Cal Tech after grauating from MHS.

“I just want to say a big thank you to everyone here for supporting me and students like me in our academic endeavors,” Anzis told the Board.
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Board looks at needs assessment results

Results of the Community Needs Assessment show nearly 85 percent of people feel Marshalltown Schools provide a safe learning environment.

The survey, conducted last fall in the months leading up to the Department of Education Site Visit, had 928 responses, with 85 percent being parents of current MCSD students.

Jason Staker, director of communications for Marshalltown Schools, shared the survey results with the Board during Monday’s regular meeting. The survey gauged opinions on academic programs, special programs, supplemental programs and environment, as well as learning about how and where people like to receive information about schools.

In almost every category the majority of respondents agreed or strongly agreed Marshalltown Schools were providing good academic programs, extra-curricular activities, etc. In the category of supplemental programs more responses were in the “Don’t Know” category. Staker told the Board this was probably due to the fact these specific programs – like English Language Learner services and At-Risk programming – were not experienced by some of the individuals answering the survey.

Several themes emerged from among the comments on the survey. First was the positive changes being seen at Marshalltown High School. Staker said numerous comments noted parents and students noticing a positive environment and an appreciation for the dedication and enthusiasm of principal Aiddy Phomvisay. Other comments suggested looking at more times and opportunities for parent involvement and ways to connect families with community resources.

Staker said the next step is to examine current district practices to determine how they can be altered to meet the needs addressed in the survey. Feedback from the Site Visit report will also factor in to this process. Staker also said he plans to create a shorter version of the needs assessment to complete annually in order to track progress.
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Art Club traveling to Chicago March 16

The Board approved a trip to Chicago for the Marshalltown High School Art Club Saturday, March 16.

Students will visit the Art Institute to see a Picasso exhibit and see the National Museum of Mexican Art. Some funding for the trip will be from Art Club fundraising, while some will be from students. Cost will be $50-75 per passenger.
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Health Careers Club plans trip

The Marshalltown Area Health Careers Club will visit the Robert Lurie Cancer Treatment Center at Northwestern University March 8-9, 2013.

The Board approved the trip Monday night, which includes a half day with doctors, nurses, students and others who are responsible for the care and treatment of patients with cancer. Thirty-two MHS students will participate, as well as two from South Tama.

Chaperones will be Dan Terrones and Lisa Wunn, MHS Deans of Students, Erin Weatherly, MHS Teacher, and John Hughes, CEO at MMSC.

Marshalltown Medical and Surgical Center will sponsor this trip. GEAR UP funds will also be used to cover some of the costs for 11th grade students. Students will provide money for eating and any shopping expenses they may incur.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the Board was asked to expand our curriculum at MHS to include Engineering and Health Science electives that will provide added opportunities for college credits. This new program, called “Project Lead the Way,” is centered on Engineering and Health Sciences that are vital to our local economy and fully supported by our partner business leaders. We also accepted major donations from Emerson Process Management – Fisher Division, MEDIC, Lennox and the Iowa Veterans home. These partners and others, including Marshalltown Community College and Marshalltown Medical & Surgical Center, will help support and fund this program for the next three years and beyond. This is just another factor that make Marshalltown a great place to live and educate our students. Thank you again to our business partners for your trust and support!
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Last month’s site visit by the Iowa Department of Education provided feedback to the district from educational experts from across the state. Monday evening’s presentation of the 2012 Community Needs Assessment provided us with additional input from 928 residents of our community. We greatly appreciate the individuals who contributed to these efforts – the compliments and concerns from both sources are important to the continuous improvement effort of our district.

It is always great to have one or more of our outstanding students at a board meeting, so the recognition of MHS senior Ben Anzis was a highlight of the evening. His nomination for the prestigious US Presidential Scholars program is a great honor and we wish him much continued success.
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POLICY

First Reading

402.2 Child Abuse Reporting, waive second reading

703.4/703.4-E Fiscal Management – Performance Measures, return for second reading

Initial Review

403.1 Employee Physical Examinations

403.3 Communicable Diseases – Employees, mark reviewed

403.4 Hazardous Chemical Right to Know

403.5 Harassment – Employees, change that superintendent or designee shall develop a schedule for annual ongoing training.

703.5 Finance Committee, change portion about casualty and worker’s comp insurance section so it states the board acts on a recommendation made by administration.
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PERSONNEL – Click here to view.

View PDF version here.

District works to graduate more students on time

While it’s too early to calculate the actual graduation rate for 2013, district administrators told the Board they are working hard to ensure more students earn a Marshalltown High School diploma in four years and the data so far is promising.

In the first semester at MHS attendance increased over the same period last year, with fewer in-school and out-of-school suspensions. Students are also failing fewer classes and fewer are credit deficient. Principal Aiddy Phomvisay said many of the credit deficient students are currently enrolled in classes to put them back on track. The students are on “critical watch lists” in their Smaller Learning Communities, with case managers tracking progress.

“We really can’t reach into the bag and pull out a hard and fast number today, but from all the indicators we’re hearing – what we’re doing is working,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement.

Graduation rates are calculated by the Department of Education and impact District In Need of Assistance and School In Need of Assistance designations. The 2013 target in the Strategic Action Plan is 89 percent. Dr. Marvin Wade, superintendent of schools, told the Board he wants the community to be aware that increasing graduation rate means increasing student achievement, not decreasing standards.

“We won’t get the graduation rate up by lowering the bar,” he said. “That’s non-negotiable.”
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Scholarship established in memory of Donna Hoop

Adam and Jared Hoop were present at the Board meeting Monday night to establish a scholarship in memory of their mother, Donna Hoop.

The Donna Hoop Memorial Scholarship will be a $1000 annual scholarship going to one student or one male and one female. Students must have a 3.5 GPA, be a varsity student athlete, plan to enroll in a two- or four-year degree program in Iowa, and submit a 400-word essay reflecting on athletic participation and the vital role families play in supporting their students.

The Hoop Family gave $10,000 to establish the scholarship.

They’ve always been so gracious to our school and community,” High School Principal Aiddy Phomvisay said.

Donna Hoop passed away Jan. 11, 2013, after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
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Low-interest loans available through Frank Pierce Trust 

Frank Pierce was 25 when he became mayor of Marshalltown in 1896. He and his wife devoted their lives to the city and when they died they established a trust to ensure future generations of Marshalltown youth could afford quality college education.

Established in 1950, the Frank Pierce Trust is a revolving education fund that offers loans to Marshalltown High School graduates at 2 percent less interest than the Federal student loan rate. Since its inception, the trust has dispensed 939 loans, loaning about $200,000 a year.

“This is huge,” said Board President Sherm Welker.

Loans are available only to MHS graduates going to an Iowa college. Applications are available at Grimes Law Firm or in the MHS Counseling Office. Applicants go through an interview process with trustees and can reapply for funds every year. Repayment begins upon graduation or end of schooling and must be repaid in 10 years.

To date there is $1.84 million in outstanding loans from the trust and another $636,000 available to make new loans.
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District seeks more opportunities to offer college-level courses

One in five students at Marshalltown High School this year is enrolled in some form of college-level coursework and the district would like to see that number increase.

Increasing participation in college-level coursework is one part of the Strategic Action Plan. In 2012-2013 20 percent of MHS students are enrolled in classes that could earn them college credit, a decrease from 21.8 percent last year.

“It does mean we have work to do,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement.

Pecinovsky said the district is looking at new ways to offer coursework outside of the traditional school day, including online classes.

“We are continuing to look for opportunities that fall outside of seat time,” she said.

New programs coming to MHS, like Project Lead The Way, will also offer more opportunities for college credit.

High School Principal Aiddy Phomvisay noted that the class of 2012 earned 400 college credits while at MHS, equating to about $55,600 in tuition parents and students saved by taking the classes while in high school.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

A new scholarship was presented to the District tonight from the family of Donna Hoop. The new scholarship will provide funding to Marshalltown High School student athletes pursuing further education at an Iowa college or university. Many thanks to the Hoop family for their donation to the future of our students.

We also heard tonight about the Frank Pierce Trust that provides college loan to MHS students. The Trust was established in 1950 and has provided 939 loans to college students since it was stated. The current loan balance is $1.8 million and the trust has an ample balance for more loans. The interest rate is set at 2 percent below the Federal student loan rate and payments are delayed until the student completes their college education. To qualify, MHS graduates must be attending an Iowa college or university and maintain a 2.0 GPA. This fund should be the first choice for any student needing to borrow for their advanced education, as the interest rate is well below other funds that are available. Please see your guidance counselors or contact the Grimes Law Office for application details.

As with both of these funds, MHS students have many opportunities to continue their education and advance their goals and dreams. This is just another reason that Marshalltown is the school district of choice.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Increasing student achievement and maintaining a safe/supportive learning environment are two district objectives frequently discussed by the Board. Tonight’s education portion of the meeting focused entirely on the third MCSD objective –  increasing readiness for further education and employment. The Board heard about student development of workplace competencies, completion of challenging curriculum, and graduation from high school.

Particularly impressive is the number of opportunities for Marshalltown High School students to earn college credits though Postsecondary Enrollment (PSEO), Concurrent Enrollment, and Advanced Placement classes. We’d like to see more students take advantage of the chance to earn college credits while in high school, so please encourage students who will attend MHS next year (and their parents) to strongly weigh the educational and financial benefits of PSEO, Concurrent Enrollment and Advanced Placement as course selections are made in the near future.
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POLICY

First Reading

600.1 Nondiscrimination, amended based on Site Visit recommendations, waive second reading

603.12 Internet – Appropriate and Safe Use, amended based on Site Visit recommendations, waive second reading

Initial Review

402.2/E/R Child Abuse Reporting, note that it’s an approved training course

402.3/E1/E2/R Abuse of Students by School District Employees, mark reviewed

402.4 Gifts to Employees, mark reviewed

402.5 Public Complaints About Employees, mark reviewed
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

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A schematic drawing depicting Phase 1 of the Roundhouse renovation

Roundhouse project enters design development

The Roundhouse renovation project is entering the design development phase after a presentation of schematic drawings met with informal approval at Monday’s Board meeting.

Joe Benesh and Phil Hodgin from RDG, the architectural firm handing the Roundhouse project, presented schematic drawings of both phases of the project, as well as artistic renderings of the completed facility.

In order to create the schematic designs, RDG held focus groups with students, teachers, maintenance staff, and others who utilize the facility. They worked with the Design Advisory Committee, comprised of community members, Board members and district administration, to come up with a design to meet the community needs.

“We’ve distilled everything we’ve heard and everything we’ve learned into some design options,” Benesh said.

Benesh and Hogdin also stressed they want to preserve the iconic nature of the Roundhouse, will adding and enhancing it to create an impressive landmark.

“Your guests will be impressed and intimidated and you’ll be proud,” Hodgin said.

The School Board has committed $9.1 million toward the project, which will include new entrances, Hall of Pride, concessions, restrooms, locker rooms, weight room, roof, floor, bleachers, and a lot of mechanical and HVAC upgrades. A second phase, which would add a new wrestling room and auxiliary gym, will cost an additional $3.7 million and is contingent on community fundraising.

The project now enters the design development phase, where more detailed drawings are created. This phase should be completed around April 1 RDG says, at which time it will come to the Board for approval in order to begin working on blueprints and specifications.
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District receives positive feedback from Site Visit

Representatives from the Department of Education spent three days in the district last week as part of a required Comprehensive School Improvement Visit. Though their formal report will not be available for 60 days, they gave informal feedback to district administration Thursday, Jan. 17.

The Site Visit team was impressed with the progress seen since the last visit five years ago, noting a consistent understand of the district mission, vision and goals across different groups. The Site Visit team interviewed teachers, administrators, support staff, parents and students as part of the process, and noted there was a strong sense of partnership and collaboration.

Team members were particularly impressed with the community Not In Our Town initiative, and said one of the highlights was their time interviewing Marshalltown High School students.

The Site Visit also included a document review of everything from Board Policy to personnel files. The district received three notes of noncompliance, which Superintendent Marvin Wade noted were all easily fixed. Two included changing language in Board Policy, which the Board began addressing during Monday’s meeting. The third was a missing evaluation in a personnel file, which will also soon be corrected.

Dr. Wade and Dr. Susan Pecinovksy, associate superintendent for student achievement, noted the hard work of everyone in the district for continuing to focus on improving student achievement.
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District examines integrating digital literacy into curriculum

Digital literacy is an important skill for students to find success in the 21st Century. Through the help of learning.com, Marshalltown students will soon find these skills integrated into their regular classroom instruction.

Ronnie Manis, district instructional applications specialist, and Chris Niemeyer from learning.com gave an overview of their services to integrate digital literacy education into core instruction. Instead of adding new curriculum, learning.com adds technical skills components to current instruction, from keyboarding and word processing to online safety. The goal is to increase the digital literacy of students, preparing them for the demands of school and work in the 21st Century.

The district is still working on the details of how this will be rolled out across schools and integrated with different subject areas.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tyler Kluver at the ceremony to receive his game jersey last fall.

This evening we were reminded that once in a while, life gives us an experience that can grow us beyond our expectations. MHS senior Tyler Kluver spoke concerning his recent experience while playing in the 2013 Under Armor All-American High School Football Game. It was obvious that Tyler has worked diligently to develop his athletic skills and talents that took him to this venue. He is an example of what dedication, hard work, sacrifice, and determination can accomplish when we set our goals at a high level and then work to achieve our goals. It is our role as parents, educators, counselors, coaches, administrators and mentors to help our students succeed in athletics, scholarship and life. We are extremely proud of Tyler and his accomplishments. We know he will represent us well as he moves into college and through his adult life. Thank you for reminding us as Board members what we can achieve when we put forth enough effort to reach our goals.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Expectations for student use of technology now far exceed merely being able to use a desktop computer. Twenty-first century students must be “digitally literate” – able to locate, use, summarize, evaluate, create and communicate information while using a variety of digital devices. Tonight’s presentation on Digital Literacy focused on the district’s commitment to strengthen our curriculum in this important area. Future presentations will be devoted to infrastructure, policies, devices and support materials consistent with our technology vision of promoting innovative practices that prepare students for success in an ever-changing global society.
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POLICY

First Reading

401.4 Employee complaints, approve as amended, waive second reading.

Initial Review 

401.10/R – Credit Cards, mark reviewed.
401.11 – Travel Allowance, mark reviewed.
401.12/R – Employee Use of Cell Phones, mark reviewed.
600.1 – Nondiscrimination, change language according to the recommendation of the Site Visit Team, bring back for first reading.
603.12 – Internet – Appropriate and Safe Use, change language according to the recommendation of the Site Visit Team, bring back for first reading.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

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Community kickoff for third grade reading initiative slated for Jan. 16

A community-wide kickoff for “Spread the Words – Read by Third” is planned for Wednesday, Jan. 16, 5-6:30pm at the Marshalltown Public Library.

Marshalltown was designated an All-America City for its work on the Spread the Words initiative, selected out of 160 communities applying for the distinction.

Work focuses on three areas connected to literacy: chronic absenteeism, summer learning loss and school readiness. Task forces worked in the late summer and early fall to develop action plans focused on the three areas, aligning goals and strategies to the District Strategic Action Plan.

“Our work has just begun,” said Sue Martin, one of the cochairs of the Spread the Words initiate and former director of the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation. Martin, along with Mid-Iowa Community Action director Arlene McAtee, told the Board about some of the pilot projects and upcoming projects geared toward having 90 percent of third graders proficient in reading by 2016.
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MPD plans summer Kid Career Academy for at-risk youth

Twenty middle school students will participate in a Kid Career Academy next summer, facilitated by members of the Marshalltown Police Department.

Kraig Langeschulte, school resource officer at Marshalltown High School, and Brad Mauseth, MPD community outreach officer, told the Board about their proposed program, which will run July 8-26, 2013, in the Community Y Cultural Center. The program will work with at-risk youth and focus on character education, police education, physical fitness, leadership and community service.

Participants will have guest speakers from different aspects of local law enforcement, including a look at the K9 unit, crime scene investigation, and the Marshalltown Fire Department. There will also be activities about bullying, character building, and leadership.

Each day will also include physical fitness activities and a time for writing and reflection. Meals will be provided through the Marshalltown Schools Summer Meal Program.

At the end of the program students will have a celebration and graduation ceremony with a family potluck and five special awards given out for the five focus areas.

The cost of the program is $4,000, which Langeschulte and Mauseth hope to fund with grants so there is no cost to the students and their families.
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District defines RTI2, continuum of services

District staff and administrators have been working hard to create a comprehensive, well-defined continuum of services for students, as well as a framework for accessing services.

The work has resulted in a common vocabulary and understanding of services in the Response to Instruction and Intervention (RTI2) process.

“This has been a journey for us and we’re going to continue to strengthen this work,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement. “This isn’t the end, it’s just the beginning.”

Pecinovsky said previously a lot of the same work was going on around the district, but under different names, with each building having its own labels for teams and processes. Now there are common names and a common understanding across the district, with data teams monitoring the RTI2 process.

The continuum of services has been defined by three areas: universal, targeted and intensive. The goal is for 80 percent of students to have their needs met by services in the “universal” area, which includes work like the Language Literacy Framework, Positive Behavior Intervention Supports and using data to inform instruction.

“It’s going to take time and the resources will shift as the universal gets stronger,” Pecinovsky said.
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31 take early retirement

 The final early retirements were approved at Monday’s Board meeting, bringing the total to 31 for 2012-2013.

District staff will leave the district with a combined 791 years of service to Marshalltown Schools. Early retirements approved Monday night are:

• Tim Bell, MHS athletic director, 35 years.
• Marsha Eppert, MHS Special Education, 21 years.
• Molly Ferrin, MHS Special Education, 21 years.
• Mary Fitzgerald, Miller 7/8 Language Arts/Reading/At-Risk, 35 years.
• Carolyn Hanchak, MHS Special Education, 31 years.
• Catherine Hansen, MHS Special Education, 25 years.
• Julie Harvey, Hoglan Grade 2, 30 years.
• Shirley Mann, Franklin Grade 3, 35 years.
• Peggy Niedermann, Lenihan Grade 5/6, 15 years.
• Sally Robertson, Hoglan School Nurse, 18 years.
• Paula Rutherford, Fisher School Nurse, 23.5 years.
•  Nancy Van Wyk, Franklin Grade 4, 38.5 years.
• Ellen Youds, Rogers Media Specialist, 32 years.
• Val Strong, MHS 12-Month Secretary, 32 years.
• Brenda Walkup, Rogers 12-Month Secretary, 33 years.

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Notes from the School Board

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight we had the final numbers presented for those long term district employees choosing the early retirement package for this year. We had 31 employees with 791 years of experience with the district elect retirement. We wish them well on the next adventures in their lives and careers whatever they may be.

We deeply express our gratitude for the lives these educators have touched through the years and know they have added so much to so many. We will greatly miss your experience and devotion to our district, the community, and mainly our children. Thank you for your service and dedication.

The early retirement program accomplished several goals and we estimate (with many assumptions I might add) that the district will save about $600,000 assuming all of the positions are filled for next year. This makes a big dent in the budget shortfall of $1 million that we are projecting for 2013-2014.

We will need to monitor our budget projections while we negotiate contracts with those employee groups that are on single year contracts over the next few weeks and months. We then will determine where additional cuts can be taken to keep our expenses in line with our income. Since salaries are the major piece of our budget at about 70 percent, those costs will have the largest effect on the costs projected for next year.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our district.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Tonight’s “Spread the Words – Read by 3rd!” and “Student Academy” presentations reminded me of how fortunate our school district is to be located in Marshalltown. A significant number of community members consistently demonstrate their commitment to education by selflessly giving of their time and expertise. As important as these contributions are, perhaps the greatest gift is the fact that these individuals serve as role models for our children and youth.  We can never have too many positive role models so, when given the opportunity, please take a few moments to thank others for supporting our mission of “nurturing students to become intellectually and personally empowered for citizenship in a changing world.”
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Policy

First Reading

401.1 Equal Employment Opportunity, update language to say we will conduct a background check before all employments, update to reflect Matt Tullis as equity coordinator, waive second reading.

Initial Review

401.4 Employee Complaints, strike third paragraph

401.5/R Employee Records, mark reviewed

401.8 Recognition for Service of Employees, separate service awards from retirement awards

703.4/E Fiscal Management – Performance Measures, run policy by Mary Gannon
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Personnel – Click Here
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Architect contracts approved for upcoming projects

The Board approved contracts with TSP, Inc., for three facilities projects slated to begin next year.

Contracts cover the high-voltage electric upgrade at Marshalltown High School, remodeling at the Support Service Center to relocate district administration offices, and renovation of the 1957 portion of Miller Middle School.

District attorney Rex Ryden reviewed the contracts and said everything was in order before Board approval.
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Board approves 12 early retirements

Twelve district employees with more than 250 years of combined service were approved for early retirement Monday.

Those taking advantage of the early retirement incentive (so far) are:

• Jane Boehler, Anson Grade 4, 19 years
• Julie Bousum, MHS Art/speech coach, 19 years
• Nancy Brant Ahn, Miler Grade 7 math, 25.25 years
• Beth Campbell, Hoglan Preschool/Special Education, 21 years
• Lacinda Gillen, Miller ELP, 22.17 years
• Steven Hanson, MHS English, Journalism & Publications, 28 years
• Marna Hunnicutt, MHS industrial tech, 17.5 years
• Peggy Kelly, Rogers Grade 4, 16.5 years
• Cheryl LaVille, MHS English, 33 years
• Jan McGinnis, Miller Special Education, 18 years
• Julie A. Miller, Miller Grade 8 science, 34 years
• Bea Niblock, Anson Principal, 17 years

The window to take the early retirement incentive is open until Jan. 4, 2013.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Despite a hectic fall schedule overseeing important matters such as budget, facilities, school climate, community engagement and student achievement, the Board remains committed to following an established policy review schedule. To ensure every MCSD policy is reviewed at least once every five years, there are times when the agenda for a board meeting focuses more heavily on policies than usual. Tonight was such a case, as the Board painstakingly examined 16 policies from the 300 Series (Administration) of our policy manual.  I appreciate the Board’s willingness to devote time now to policies – which provides greater flexibility for future agendas when time-sensitive issues will need to take precedence over policy review.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, President

Tonight we accepted retirement notices from 12 long-term employees with more than 250 combined years of service with MCSD. We thank them for their service and dedication to our district and to our students. I know some of you as friends and remember the many parent meetings through the years with my children. They were very blessed to have you as educators, coaches, and as role models. Your experience and work ethic will be greatly missed and we wish you all well for many years into the future. Once again, thank you!

The board will be mapping out our financial goals in upcoming work sessions and formal meetings as we move through the holidays and into 2013. The economic conditions that have been here for several years in industry are now impacting our publicly funded institutions and we are prepared to meet the challenge. Through the process we will keep you informed of where we are as a district and where we want to be in the future.

Thank you for your support and excitement as Marshalltown moves forward with more opportunities and choices for educating the next generation. We have set the goal of being the “district of choice” and remain in dedicated pursuit of this goal.
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POLICY

Second Reading

301.1 Superintendent of Schools – Qualifications and Recruitment, approved as amended.

301.2 Superintendent of Schools – Contract and Contract Non-Renewal, add legal reference, approved as amended.

301.3 Superintendent of Schools – Functions, Letter E amended to reflect current practice (using IASB policy as reference), Letter L removed, Letter R changed to reflect current district positions, approved as amended.

First Reading

302.1 Associates to the Superintendent – Positions, approved as amended, waive second reading.

302.2 Associates to the Superintendent – Qualifications, added “Iowa” before Dept. of Education, approved as amended, waive second reading.

302.3 Associates to the Superintendent, Directors and Supervisors –Appointment, mark reviewed.

Initial Review

301.4 – Currently in Committee

303.1 Building Principals and Associates, mark reviewed.

305.1 Administrative Cabinet, mark reviewed.

310.1 Administrative/Management Team, update legal reference, mark reviewed.

312.1 Administrative Personnel Employment – Individual Contracts, mark reviewed.

312.3/E1-E2 Administrative Personnel – Compensation/Benefits, mark reviewed.

312.4 Evaluation of Administrative Staff, sent to committee.

312.5 Administrative Personnel – Professional Development, amend to reference Strategic Plan.

314.2 Administrative Personnel Contract Termination – Resignation, mark reviewed.

314.3 Administrative Personnel Contract Termination – Dismissal, mark reviewed.

401.7 Travel, mark reviewed.
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PERSONNEL

Resignations

Melissa Marks, Miller paraeducator, effective Nov. 28, 2012.

Jean Creekmur, Lenihan food service, effective Nov. 15, 2012.

Appointments

Kathy Cox, MHS assistant girls golf coach, salary: $1,953/year.
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