The Board Report

View the PDF version here.

District to save $1.7 million through bond refinancing

The Board approved the sale of two bonds Monday night, which will save the district nearly $1.7 million over the life of the bonds.

The district received bids Monday afternoon. Matthew Gillaspie from Piper Jaffray & Co. in Des Moines told the Board the district received an A+ rating from Standard & Poors, which made the bonds a desirable investment.

The first bond for $870,000 was sold to United Missouri Bank of Kansas City, Mo. The new interest rate of 1.86 percent will calculate to a $10,000-$20,000 savings each fiscal year, totally approximately $178,000 in total.

The second bond for $16.99 million was sold to Bankers Trust & Company in Des Moines. Since the bond is not eligible to be paid off for two years, the money is put in an escrow account for two years. The new interest rate is 2.55 percent, which will represent a savings of $1.5 million over the life of the bond.
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MHS sending students to 5 national contests

Students representing five different groups came before the Board for two reasons Monday night. One was to ask permission for out-of-state travel. The other was to celebrate the reason for these trips: to represent Marshalltown on a national and international stage in five separate competitions.

Students from Envirothon, Poetry Out Loud, Math Team, National Forensics League and National History Day are heading to contests around the country soon after winning state and regional honors.

Envirothon students Molly Finn, Adam Willman, Brennan Goodman, Abby Snyder and Joe Metzger were state champions of the environmental competition and will compete at the Canon International Envirothon at Susquehanna University in Selinsgrove, Penn., June 22-28, 2012.

Finn and Snyder will also represent MHS at two other contests. Finn is the part of the MHS Math Team with XingXing Duan, Jaleb Jay, Nicole Lacina, Sumeet Panchal, Chandler Schmidt, James Talbert and Ben Anzis. The team qualified for the Great Plains Math League Regional contest May 18, 2012, in Kansas City, Mo.

Snyder is advancing to the National Speech & Debate Tournament June 10-15, 2012, in Indianapolis, Indiana. This is Snyder’s second year of qualifying for nationals in Legislative Debate.

Susie Pratt, Ellen Podhajsky and Hannah Stone are heading to the National History Day contest June 10-14, 2012, in College Park, Md. The trio qualified their group performance, “Carrie Chapman Catt: Leading the Woman’s Rights Revolution”, at Iowa National History Day April 30.

Gwen Morrison will travel to Washington, D.C., May 13-15 to compete in the National Poetry Out Loud contest. She was named state champion March 3, 2012.
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New math curriculum for MHS

Marshalltown High School will implement a new math curriculum this fall.

The Pearson Series math curriculum was selected after a formal needs assessment in the fall of 2011. Members of the MHS Math Dept. reviewed the Common Core standards and benchmarks and looked at different options for good readability, differentiation and online support for students and teachers.

Angela Pierce, a high school math teacher who presented the curriculum to the Board, said the implantation will be gradual, with Pre-Algebra and Algebra classes for freshmen added in the fall. This way students who are already in the Integrated Math series can complete it.

The cost of the new math curriculum is approximately $100,000.
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Board looks at Iowa Assessments

The Board reviewed the new Iowa Assessments Monday night, looking at both district results and how the new tests differ from the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS).

This is the first major change in Iowa standardized testing in approximately 15 years. The Iowa Assessments are more rigorous than previous tests, said District Applications Specialist Ronnie Manis. The Iowa Assessments have new questions and new points of comparison. They are aligned to the Common Core standards and are reported using National Standards Scores (NSS).

NSS describe performance on a continuum from kindergarten through high school. The continuum is based on scores from testing thousands of students and determining where students at certain grade levels fall within a range.

The achievement continuum connected with the Iowa Assessments is divided into three categories: Non Proficient, Proficient, and Advanced. Using these scores allows teachers, parents and students to track not only proficiency at a test time, but year-to-year growth.

Manis and Dr. Susan Pecinovksy, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the Board the conversations with colleagues across Iowa show similar result trends as seen in Marshalltown: a decrease in scores in lower grades, with increased scores at the high school level.

Since this is the first year for the Iowa Assessments the district will use the results as baseline data in the Strategic Action Plan.  Scores will be sent home with students the week of May 14.
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Garling  Construction selected for Support Services project

Garling Construction Company from Belle Plaine had the low bid for the Support Services Building addition and site development.

District architect Dave Schulze says all the bids came in higher than estimated, but the District was able to work with Garling to find $101,493 in cost-reducing items in the project. The cost for demolishing the 1925 portion of the old Anson Middle School was also below estimates, which helps offset costs.

The project cost is $1,603,507. The work prepare the former middle school for use as district offices, Board room, and meeting rooms.
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Brycon, LLC, selected for west bus barn demo

Brycon, LLC, will tear down the west bus barn. The project will prepare the area for extra bus parking and include added security fences and lighting.

Total cost is $90,100.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

May 7-11 is a week for recognizing a number of groups within the school district. At tonight’s Board meeting we kicked off School Board Recognition Week by presenting each Board member with a certificate of recognition in appreciation of their service to the students, parents and staff of MCSD. Serving on the Board requires each board member to work hundreds of hours every year without pay; to attend many meetings and school functions; to study a large number of agendas, proposals and reports; and to have ongoing discussions with members of our community.

May 7-11 also marks Teacher Appreciation Week. MCSD has many dedicated teachers who work hard every day to help our students achieve. While it may just be one week named “Teacher Appreciation Week”, their tireless efforts are valued year-round.

This is also National Nurse’s Week. Wednesday is National School Nurse Day, so make sure to thank your school nurses and health aides.

I hope others will join me in thanking our teachers, nurses and board members for their valuable contribution to the children and youth of our community.

I also want to remind everyone about the Marshalltown Education Association/Board Recognition Tea that will be held from 4:00-6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 16. I hope you will join us at Dejardin Hall on the Marshalltown Community College campus to honor retirees, MEA scholarship winners, the Friend of Education Recipient, and staff with 35 and 25 years of service.
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Notes from the School Board

By Kay Beach, Board president

This evening’s group of young people who sought the Board’s blessing for their trips to various national competitions was certainly occasion for button-popping chests swollen with pride!  Theirs was one long

parade of bright, hard-working students who have earned the opportunity to continue their quests for excellence on the broader stage of “nationals.”  As Board members we wrestle constantly with the challenge of improving the quality of education in our community, and much of our focus is on ways to help those students who struggle to achieve even minimum competencies.  So, it is especially uplifting to be able to celebrate both the opportunities for students on the upper end of the competency scale and the successes of those who seize those opportunities and run with them.  Congratulations to the students (who have done the work), their teachers and mentors (who challenged them), and their parents (who supported and encouraged them)—we eagerly await the reports of your performances on that broader stage!
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Personnel

Retirements

Vicki McKibbin, Hoglan Grade 3 teacher, effective at the end of the school year; has taught in MCSD 13 years.
Janice Dehrkoop, Woodbury LI Tutor, effective June 1, 2012; has worked in MCSD for 19 years.

Resignations

Sharon McKimpson, Miller principal, effective June 30, 2012.
Sierra Herring, Hoglan kindergarten teacher, effective at the end of the school year.
Michelle Ritter, Rogers Special Ed teacher, effective at the end of the school year.
Luisa Rumero, Woodbury Grade 2 teacher, effective at the end of the school year.
Josh Russell, MHS art teacher, effective at the end of the school year.
Brian Bown, MHS Special Ed teacher, effective at the end of the school year.
Tayler Bovenmyer, MHS paraeducator, effective May 31, 2012.
Morgan Ellis, Anson paraeducator, effective at the end of the school year.
Joshua Menuey, Fisher paraeducator, effective April 16, 2012.
Brittany Peters, Franklin paraeducator, effective at the end of the school year.
Kayla Tate, Lenihan paraeducator, effective at the end of the school year.
Jennifer Witte, Lenihan food service, effective May 25, 2012.
Patty Nevarez, Franklin paraeducator, effective April 9, 2012.

Appointments

Kathryn Jimenez, Anson Kindergarten. Start date: Aug. 15, 2012; Salary: BA Step 11.
Lydia Arevalo, MHS Guidance Counselor. Start date: Aug. 15, 2012; Salary: MA Step 5.
Sabrina Russell, Elementary Instructional Coach. Start date: Aug. 15, 2012; Salary: MA Step 7.
Mary Brown, Fisher Preschool teacher. Start date: Aug. 15, 2012; Salary: BA Step 6.
Fred Fehrman, Substitute Bus Driver. Start date: Feb. 15, 2012; Salary determined by route.
Kevin Goodman, MHS assistant softball coach. Start date: April 9, 2012. Salary: $3,190/year.

Change of Contract

Jennifer August, change from Franklin Grade 1 teacher to Elementary Instructional Coach. Start date: Aug. 15, 2012.
Kim Hurley, change from Anson Grade 4 teacher to Elementary Instructional Coach. Start date: Aug. 15, 2012.
Cedra Baccam, change from Special Ed Level I paraeducator to Special Ed Level II paraeducator at MHS. Salary: $9.48/hour.
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Policy

701.5 Post-Issuance Compliance Policy for Tax-Exempt Obligations, initial review of new policy, will return for first reading.
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View PDF version.

‘Team Genius’ leads state in First in Math competition

Skyler Rush, 5,955 points; Austin Shomo, 6,664 points; Lily Martin, 6,902 points; Alonzo Ceren, 7,370 points; Seth Derby, 7,790 points (8th in state); Jay Drummer, 12,548 points (2nd in state).

Six students from Fisher, Rogers and Woodbury elementary schools are leading the state in the online math competition First in Math, a lead they have held for most of the school year.

Marcia Plett, who facilitates the Extended Learning Program in those schools, brought Skyler Rush, Austin Shomo, Lily Martin, Alonzo Ceren, Seth Derby and Jay Drummer to the Board meeting Monday night to be recognized for their success in First in Math.

First in Math is an online program that allows students to complete math problems and earn points according to varying degrees of difficulty. Students can access the program from any computer with Internet access. Plett said students spend a lot of time out of the classroom working on problems and improving their skills.

Besides being the top team in the state, two students are among the top 10 individuals in First in Math. Seth Derby from Rogers Elementary is 8th in Iowa and Jay Drummer from Woodbury Elementary is ranked second.
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Board approves 2011 audit report

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Project Lead the Way coming to Marshalltown

Middle school students next year will have new opportunities for learning about science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through Project Lead the Way.

Project Lead the Way (PLTW) is a non-profit organization and the nation’s leading provider of “rigorous and innovative” STEM curriculum.

“We want to be part of what’s happening out in the educational community that’s cutting edge,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement. “This is a chance for our students to be a part of the work that’s being spoken about nationally.”

Pecinovsky and other administrators attended a PTLW conference last fall and visited Franklin Middle School and Jefferson High School, both in Cedar Rapids, where PTLW programs are being implemented.

This fall Miller Middle School will replace its current Mod Tech curriculum with Gateway To Technology, which includes “independent, nine-week units that explore aerospace, energy, the environment, green architecture, modeling, robotics, technology and other STEM-related topics.” This will include foundation courses Automation & Robotics and Design & Modeling.

“Miller welcomes the opportunity to launch PLTW, giving students a solid foundation in engineering, technology, communication, and problem solving before broadening the experiences at MHS,” said Sharon McKimpson, Miller principal. “We also appreciate the opportunity to work with local business enterprises to strengthen the success of the PLTW endeavors.”

Marshalltown High School will use 2012-2013 as a planning year before launching the Pathway To Engineering curriculum, which “explores the design process and links STEM principles to relevant problem-solving activities.” Foundation courses will be Introduction to Design and Principles of Engineering.

“The rigorous and hands-on academic programming in pre-engineering will afford our students a competitive edge that they need in the future,” said MHS Principal Aiddy Phomvisay. “We are hoping to partner with MCC to offer these courses to be dual college enrolled courses so our students may take them for college credit.”

PLTW offers grants through its STEM Education Fund. Miller was not funded, though MHS is still waiting to hear about funding status.

“We’re going to go ahead and move forward because this is the right work to be doing,” Pecinovsky said.

All students at Miller next year will take part in the foundation courses. After that, Pecinovsky says they will look at student interests to determine additional coursework.
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Preschool continues to grow

Since receiving the state voluntary preschool grant in fall 2007, Marshalltown Schools have continued to add classrooms across Marshalltown. Now, the District is preparing to open preschool at Fisher Elementary in the fall, bringing classes to every elementary in Marshalltown.

Lisa Glenn, director of special services, told the Board the district has served 238 preschool students this year and will have a projected 280 spaces available in 2012-2013.

Glenn said future projects for preschool include adding preschool appropriate playgrounds, increasing the capacity for preschool on the north side of Marshalltown, and continuing to study transportation issues.

Preschool Early Registration for 2012-2013 is Saturday, April 14, 10am-12:30pm in the Lenihan Intermediate School commons.
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2012-2013 budget approved, includes tax rate decrease

The Board approved the $83.2 million budget for 2012-2013 Monday night.

The budget includes a tax rate of 17.47178 per thousand taxable valuation, which is an 18 cent decrease from 2011-2012.
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Company picked for 1927 Anson demo

D.W. Zinser Co., Inc., from Walford, Iowa, will proceed with demolishing the 1927 portion of the former Anson Middle School.

D.W. Zinser had the low bid of $368,000. There is also an alternate that leaves the boiler room floor and footings, a reduction of $10,000. This puts the total cost at $358,000.

Most of the demolition work will be done during the summer, which interior work beginning this spring.
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West bus barn demo proceeds to bid

The Board approved seeking bids for the demolition of the west bus barn and site paving.

The estimated cost of the project is $172,250. There is a $140,000 base bid, with alternates for security lighting and chain link fence. The proposal given to the Board by buildings and grounds sought bids to place a chain link fence along one side of the property. The Board approved seeking bids based on the cost of chain link fence per foot, in case they decided to put in more fencing.
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Board looks at bond refinancing

The Board is looking at refinancing bonds to reduce interest costs.

Matthew Gillaspie from Piper Jaffray & Co. in Des Moines told the Board the options for refinancing two bonds – from 2004 and 2006.

Refinancing the 2006 bond (approximately $870,000) could save the district $185,000 for the life of the bond. The interest rate would be reduced from 4.65 percent to approximately 1.8 percent.

The 2004 bond (approximately $16,990,000) is not eligible to be paid off for two years. Refinancing would mean selling a new bond, putting the money in escrow, and paying the bond off in two years. The estimated cost savings is $2,200,000 for the life of the bond. The interest is currently at 5 percent and could be reduced to approximately 2 percent.

The board gave its informal approval to go forward with the process
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District receives innovative calendar waiver

The 2012-2013 school year will be spent planning a pilot program using the innovative calendar waiver Marshalltown Community School District received from the Department of Education.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, said the goal is to implement a pilot program at Rogers Elementary in the 2013-2014 school year, looking at the successes of the current Rogers University.

The waiver allows school districts to no longer stick to the 180 day requirement in Iowa Code 279.10. Schools can’t have less than 180 days, but they can add more days and be flexible with how days are structured.

“It doesn’t mean we have to add time, it means we can reconfigure time,” Pecinovsky said.
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Three buses purchased

The district purchased three buses from Hogland Bus Company in Marshalltown.

One 77-passenger bus, one 65-passenger bus, and one 53-passenger bus was purchased for a cost of $236,524.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

During tonight’s meeting, Board of Education members agreed to identify four evenings in April and May for work sessions with representatives of every school in Marshalltown Community School District. Each school will present the multi-year Attendance Center Plan it developed after studying data, reviewing school improvement research, setting goals, and identifying timelines, action steps and areas of responsibility for goal attainment.  A considerable amount of effort has been devoted to creating Attendance Center Plans that focus our energy and resources on a few areas that will have the greatest influence on the success of our students. I look forward to the presentation of these plans to the Board – knowing they will better enable us to achieve the results we desire and expect for all of our students.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

It’s very exciting for me to learn that MCSD will begin next fall to implement a program known as “Project Lead the Way.”  At School Board conventions for the last two years I have personally watched students demonstrate the technical knowledge that they have gained through this program—and I’ve been very impressed with the total engagement that they have in their learning.  It’s particularly pleasing for me to see the investigation that has gone into the decision to initiate this rather broad program in our schools—this is NOT just a whim that has caught some administrator’s fancy and is now being “tried” in our system. PLTW has been used in schools nation-wide and there is ample evidence that it can result in higher student achievement in the critical STEM areas.  This is a win for the district (higher achievement), for our students (greater knowledge in these critical areas), and for the business community (students better prepared for the work force.)  And isn’t that what we all want?
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PERSONNEL

Resignations

Sarah Dier, Hoglan Special Education teacher, effective at the end of the school year.
Glenda Baker, Rogers food service, effective March 20, 2012.
Roger Taylor, Jr., MHS head bowling coach, effective March 27, 2012.

Appointments

Lucas Johnson, Miller language arts teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year; Salary: MA Step 9 (TBD).
Tanya Gaffney, Lenihan 6th Grade Language Arts/Reading/Social Studies teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year; Salary: BA Step 6 (TBD).
Michelle Beals, Hoglan paraeducator. Start date: March 20, 2012. Salary: $9.48/hour.
Erin Hoskins, Woodbury paraeducator. Start date: April 9, 2012. Salary: $8.47/hour.
Michelle Warbier, Woodbury paraeducator. Start date: April 9, 2012. Salary: $9.48/hour.
Jessica Cakrasenjaya, MHS head cheerleading coach. Start date: 2012-2013 school year. Salary: TBD.

Change of Contract

Sally Jansen, Miller 7th Grade math teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year. Change to 5th/6th grade language arts/reading/social studies teacher at Lenihan.
Michael Awes, Hoglan paraeducator. Start date: Feb. 1, 2012. Change to 6.5 hours/day (5.5 hours on Wednesday).
Melissa Marks, Hoglan paraeducator. Start date: Feb. 1, 2012. Change to 7.5 hours/day (6.5 hours on Wednesday).
Diane Heinzer, Lenihan paraeducator. Start date: March 6, 2012. Change to 7.25 hours/day (6.25 hours on Wednesday).
Cindy Bills, bus driver. Start date: March 22, 2012. Change from sub to regular bus driver. Salary: $478.35/month.
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POLICY

Second Reading: 101.1, 101.1-R1, 101.1-R2 Long-Range Needs Assessment, approve as presented.
First Reading: 201.7 Organization of the Board, return for second reading.
Initial Reading: 201.8 Board Vacancies; 202.1 Code of Ethics.
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Rogers second-grader Owen Vybiral Stewart gives a presentation on good citizenship to the Board.

View PDF version.

Rogers student demonstrates PBIS at home

At Rogers Elementary, positive behavior and good citizenship are part of every school day through Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). To teach families how PBIS could be used at home, Mark Church, Rogers guidance counselor and PBIS coordinator, sought help from someone with proven success using PBIS outside of the classroom.

Enter second-grader Owen Vybiral Stewart.

Owen, with the help of his mom, created a PowerPoint presentation about how he learns to make positive choices and be a good citizen as part of his family. He gave this presentation to a large crowd at a recent Rogers Family Learning Center event, and gave it again Monday night to the Board.

Owen told the Board about being a respectful, caring member of his family. He discussed learning how to manage money by saving his allowance and budgeting for things he wants (like a new toy helicopter). He also demonstrated how to be a good citizen, with examples including volunteering with the Animal Rescue League and shoveling a neighbor’s sidewalk without being asked.
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Miller launches Manner Up! video series

On Monday afternoons everyone at Miller Middle School can expect “Mama Cat” and “Bob Cat” to appear on their television screens. The duo star in Manner Up!, a new video series produced by and starring Miller staff and students with messages about good manners and respect.

Language arts teacher Mary Fitzgerald portrays “Mama Cat”, while “Bob Cat” is social studies teacher Bob Gilbertson. Media specialist Dave Stanfield is in charge of filming the videos, which along with Fitzgerald and Gilbertson will feature a variety of Miller students and staff.

The first video – “Dare Not to Swear” – premiered Monday, March 12. Following the 11-minute video, classrooms had discussions about behavior expectations and being held accountable for them.

“I am very excited about this initiative to improve our climate at Miller regarding respect and manners,” Principal Sharon McKimpson said. “Many talented hands are helping with Manner Up!.”

A new video will premiere every Monday afternoon for the rest of the school year.
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Meal prices increasing 10 cents

School breakfast and lunch prices will increase 10 cents in 2012-2013.

According to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, food service programs with an average lunch cost of less than $2.46 must increase costs a minimum of 5 cents and no more than 10 cents in any year. In 2011-2012 Marshalltown Community School District’s average lunch cost was $2.02.

For 2012-2013 K-4 breakfast will be $1.05 and lunch will be $2.05. For grades 5-12 breakfast will be $1.10 and lunch will be $2.20. Adult breakfast will be $1.45 and lunch will be $3.10.

Individual milk costs will remain 30 cents. There is no change in the cost for reduced-price meals as those are set by Federal guidelines.
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Health Careers Club to visit Mayo Clinic

The Marshalltown Area Health Careers Club will tour Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., on Friday, March 23.

The Board approved the out-of-state trip, which includes 28 students from Marshalltown High School and other area schools.

The club began last year and includes monthly activities for students. This trip is being sponsored and financed by Marshalltown Medical and Surgical Center, Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates, Marshalltown Area Health Careers Club fundraisers, and Gear Up.
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Support Services addition begins bid process

The Board approved an addition project at the Support Services Building.

The three-story addition will add a stairwell and elevators to the building, as long as parking, creating an entrance that will eventually serve as the main entrance for district offices.

A future project will be the renovation of upper floors to move the district central office and board room from the 317 Columbus Drive Location.

The addition will be built at the location of the 1927 Anson Middle School building, which is slated for demolition.

Total anticipated project costs are $1.5 million.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

The entire district is working very hard on improving student behaviors, and tonight’s Board meeting included two really neat examples of how PBIS is playing out in two of our schools.  Rogers second- grader Owen Vybiral Stewart gave a power-point presentation which he had created.  In it he explained how his weekly allowance is based on his behaviors, giving concrete examples of how positive behaviors increase his allowance and how poor choices made “when my brain is tired” result in decreases.   This young man has internalized valuable information and then shared it; I was impressed! The second example came from Miller Middle School.  Two teachers have teamed up to create weekly videos featuring “Mama Cat” and “Bob Cat” who use humor to illustrate different positive behaviors.  The videos are clever and entertaining while strongly emphasizing their message.   After each video is shown, classes have the opportunity to discuss the week’s featured behavior, and then it is strongly emphasized throughout the building during the week.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening the Board of Education approved Policy 100 (District Philosophy, Mission, Beliefs, and Expectations). Strategy 5 that accompanies this policy states, “MCSD will improve student achievement through efficient stewardship of district resources.” One way this stewardship can be demonstrated is by systematically planning for current and future facility needs of the district.

Tonight’s meeting included discussion about plans to update the District Capital Improvement Project List. This document is different than the MCSD Facilities Plan frequently mentioned during board meetings.

The Facilities Plan, presented to the Board in March 2010, contains rationale and design information for 10 projects between 2010 and 2015, including Fisher Elementary, preschool classrooms, MHS second floor classrooms, and the MHS Roundhouse renovation.

The Capital Improvement Project List is much broader in scope. This document contains a comprehensive list of buildings and grounds improvements recommended for every District facility, compiled from numerous sources, including staff, community members, and external inspectors such as the Fire Marshall or Office of Civil Rights.

This list hasn’t been recently reviewed, so seven steps will be taken to update the document: 1) remove everything from the current list that’s no longer relevant (e.g. completed projects or outdated cost estimates); 2) seek widespread input from district staff and community users of MCSD facilities; 3) create one list that contains all recommended projects; 4) administrative staff identify priority projects; 5) present documents from steps 3 and 4 to the MCSD Design Advisory Committee for its review and possible revision; 6) present Design Advisory Committee recommendations to the Board; and, 7) present an updated Capital Improvement Project List to the Board every spring.

District administrators and the Board look forward to receiving suggestions for the Capital Improvement Project List during the coming months. This is an important step toward ensuring that taxpayer dollars continue to be invested in a manner consistent with the priorities of the district and the community it serves.
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PERSONNEL

Resignations

Pete Drury, MHS counselor and head 7th grade boys track coach, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year.
Laurie Muilenburg, Woodbury paraeducator, effective March 23, 2012.
Gail Snyder, MHS food service, effective March 16, 2012.

Retirement

Rich Collins, school bus driver, effective March 12, 2012.

Appointments

Susan O’Neill, Woodbury Title I teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year. Salary: MA Step 5.
Amy Troup, MHS paraeducator. Start date: March 20, 2012. Salary: $9.48/hour.
Micah Donelson, Miller food service. Start date: March 6, 2012. Salary: $9.58/hour.
Melinda Burton, Rogers food service. Start date: March 7, 2012. Salary: $9.84/hour.
Dana Craft, Anson food service. Start date: March 8, 2012. Salary: $9.84/hour.
David Case, Jr., MHS assistant girls track coach. Start date: Jan. 16, 2012. Salary: $3,190/year.

Change of Contract

Sharon Baughman, administrative assistant to the associate superintendent. Start date: July 1, 2012. Change from administrative assistant for technology.
Renae Devenney, 12-month secretary at Lenihan. Start date: July 1, 2012. Change from 10-month secretary at Lenihan.
Jasmine Hazen, Woodbury Title I teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year. Change from Title I teacher at MACS and Woodbury.
Shelly Seymour, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Feb. 28, 2012. Change from Level III Special Ed to Level I, from $9.63/hour to $8.63/hour.
Kerri Rubenbauer, Woodbury Literacy Intervention Tutor. Start date: Feb. 6, 2012. Change from 6 hours/day to 7 hours/day (extra hour at Fisher Elementary).
John Saunders, bus driver. Start date: Jan. 30, 2012. Salary :$637.80/month. Change from substitute to regular route.
James Johnson, bus driver. Start date: Feb. 7, 2012. Salary: $637.80/month. Change from substitute to regular route.
Jean Wilkens, MHS food service. Start date: Jan. 4, 2012. Salary: $11.73/hour. Change from Grade 3, Step 2 to Grade 4, Step 2.
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POLICY

100 District Philosophy, Mission, Beliefs, and Expectations, approved.
101.1 Long-Range Needs Assessments, will return as a Second Reading.
200 Statement of Guiding Principles, 201.2 Legal Status of the Board of Directors, 201.3 Responsibilities of the Board of Directors, 201.4 Elections, 201.5 Membership, and 201.6 Term of Office were marked as reviewed.
201.7 Organization of the Board, will return as a First Reading.
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View the PDF version here.

Business, education leaders partner to create Marshalltown Business-Education Alliance

Representatives from the Marshalltown Business-Education Alliance share their mission and goals with the Board of Education (L to R): Terry Buzbee, Fisher Controls (co-chair); Dr. Chris Duree, Iowa Valley Community College District (co-chair); Mike McQuade, JBS.

The Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce, Marshalltown Community School District (MCSD), and Iowa Valley Community College District (IVCCD) and area business leaders are excited to announce the creation of the Marshalltown Business-Education Alliance.

The mission of the Alliance is to drive the successful execution of the partners’ strategic plans, achieve measurable results, and be the education system of choice.  During an extensive strategic planning process, the group identified five goals:

• Remove barriers and expand educational opportunities and career pathways for students
• Actively engage business leaders and educators to determine the skills needed in the workplace.
• Improve community perceptions and attitudes about education.
• Develop a unified front to ensure parents recognize the value of education.
• Provide “one voice advocacy” for policies and issues affecting education excellence.

The Alliance includes several area business leaders, representatives from MCSD, IVCCD, the Chamber and the Marshalltown Education Association, who have worked together since October 2011 to identify common focus areas above and will continue working to strengthen connections between business and education, and engage key stakeholders in the fulfilling the mission.

During the month of March representatives from the Alliance will be visiting with various stakeholders in the area to talk about the mission and goals of the group. The Alliance is chaired by Terry Buzbee from Fisher Controls/Emerson and Dr. Chris Duree from IVCCD.
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BLITS focuses on leadership, school pride

BLITS members (L to R) Kyle Carnahan, Paul Fienup, Connor Ruddick and Austin Hauser tell the Board about their activities.

Students from BLITS (Bobcat Leaders Influencing Their School) came before the Board Monday night to be recognized for their positive impact on Marshalltown High School.

BLITS began last year with a small group of male student athletes meeting at Scott Carnahan’s home, talking about what it means to be a good leader. The group held dances and fund-raisers to add $6,000 in improvements to the MHS weight room.

This year there are about 40 members of BLITS. They are currently raising money to purchase a new scoreboard for the Roundhouse.
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Hoglan Playground project approved

A new rubber tile surface will be installed on the Hoglan Elementary intermediate playground, funded in part by the school, the Parent-Teacher Organization, and PERL funds (Public Education Recreation Levy).

The same project was done on the primary playground during summer 2009. The rubber tiles, which are made from recycled materials, provide a better cushion for falls and have less long-term maintenance costs than traditional gravel and mulch.

Team Hoglan, the elementary’s PTO, has raised $13,000 for the project, with Hoglan Elementary contributing an additional $10,500. The remaining $24,369 will be allocated from district PERL funds.

The project should be completed by the 2012-2013 school year.
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Smaller tax levy part of proposed budget

The school tax rate per $1,000 valuation will decrease 18 cents in the proposed 2012-2013 budget.

The new tax rate of $17.47 won’t necessarily equate to lower taxes, however, as property valuations are increasing in the district. Kevin Poskeany, director of business operations, said the new numbers will equate to less than a 1.5 percent increase in taxes.
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Plans to demolish 1925 portion of former Anson Middle School go forward

The Board approved seeking bids to demolish the 1925 building at the former Anson Middle School.

The project will cost approximately $600,000.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening, the Board of Education passed a resolution supporting the Marshalltown Business-Education Alliance. During the March 19 meeting, the Board is expected to approve Policy 100. A key element of both actions is an expectation for significant academic gains, as well as support for making these expectations a reality:

• Policy 100 contains primary components of the District’s four-year Strategic Action Plan, including Mission, Vision, Beliefs, Goals, Objectives, Strategies, and measurable Indicators of success. Policy 100 tells us where we are to be going, when we should get there, and what criteria will be used to determine if our efforts are successful.
• The Marshalltown Business-Education Alliance is a partnership between the Marshalltown Community School District, Iowa Valley Community College District, and the local business community committed to drive the successful execution of the partners’ strategic plans, achieve measurable results, and be the education system of choice. This Mission states that business and education will work together to attain the goal and objectives of the strategic plan (as outlined in Policy 100). MCSD is not alone – Iowa Valley Community College District and the local business community are strong and supportive partners of our continuous improvement efforts.

As mentioned following our last board meeting, I look forward to reporting the progress our students will make over the next several years – and to celebrating the success that will result from the collaborative effort of dedicated students, parents, staff, and community partners.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

This evening’s Board meeting began with a presentation that really underscored for me, once again, what an impact a few determined young people can have.  Bobcat Leaders Influencing Their Schools (BLITS) is a sizeable self-organized group of male athletes who meet regularly to focus on leadership development and on ways in which they can bring about positive changes in their school environment.  Yes, their projects have focused on athletic facilities; athletics are a huge part of their world. The point is that they have chosen to become actively involved in school leadership and in providing solutions to needs that they identify in their world.  They do the fund-raising (sizeable amounts, too!), they are the organizers, and they contribute their own “sweat equity” to their projects.  They truly get what “citizenship in a changing world” means.  Hats off to these young leaders!
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PERSONNEL

Resignations

Sadrac Aleman, Fisher/Woodbury ELL Teacher, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Has taught in the district for 1 year.
Matt Moffitt, MHS Chemistry Teacher, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Has taught in the district for 3 years.
James Bennett, computer tech/auditorium assistant, effective March 2, 2012.
Kathleen Ohrt, Franklin/Rogers Literacy Intervention Tutor, effective Feb. 28, 2012.
Susan Nugent, MHS cheerleading coach, effective March 31, 2012.

Terminations

Armando Torres, Lenihan bilingual tutor, effective Feb. 29, 2012.

Appointments

Sherry Glenney, substitute bus driver.
Wilma Perkins, bus monitor, salary: $9.35/hour.
Pete Drury, head 7th grade boys track coach. Start date: March 5, 2012. Salary: $2424/year.
Scott Smith, MHS assistant boys tennis coach. Start date: March 5, 2012. Salary: $1914/year.
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Download the PDF version.

Board reviews Strategic Action Plan

The Board reviewed the District Strategic Action Plan Monday night, examining the goal, objectives and indicators that will measure success.

The Strategic Action Plan if focused on one goal: Increasing student achievement.

There are three main objectives tied to this goal, each one with measurable indicators the District will use to monitor progress:
• Improve academic performance
• Increase readiness for further education and employment
• Ensure schools are safe and organized to promote student achievement

District administrators reviewed the strategies and actions needed to meet the plan goal, describing the work as “reasonable, attainable and aggressive”.

The Board also reviewed a calendar for reporting on progress under different areas of the plan, including a community-wide report on progress each October.

The Strategic Plan was incorporated into Policy 100 of the Board policies, which outline district philosophy, mission, beliefs and expectations.
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Board approves B&G contract

The Board approved a wage and benefits package for district buildings and grounds employees Monday night.]

The new package changes from a two-tier wage schedule to a 5-step program based on labor grade and years of service. The new package increase will cost the district about $68,000, which represents a 3.01 percent increase. The settlement will cover July 1, 2012 through June 30, 2014.

The district currently employs 47 buildings and grounds employees.
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Art dept. plans trip to Chicago

A group of high school and middle school art students will be spending a day in Chicago March 24.

The Board approved plans for a trip to visit the Chicago Art Institute Museum and the Art Museum at Northwestern University. A total of 34 high school students, eight middle school students and 12 adult chaperones will attend.

Art Club fundraising proceeds are helping to defray some of the costs.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening, the Board of Education heard an administrative report about the district’s Strategic Action Plan. Board members then completed the First Reading of Policy 100: District Philosophy, Mission, Beliefs, and Expectations. Throughout tonight’s discussion, the Board conveyed a commitment to ensuring all students receive a high quality education in a compassionate and engaging environment of high expectations and accountability. I look forward to reporting the progress our students will make over the next several years – and to celebrating the success that will result from the work of dedicated students, parents and staff.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Jennifer Wilson, Board Vice President

The Marshalltown Community School Administration has been working hard to update the 1994 District Philosophy, Mission, Belief, and Expectations policy.

This comes at a time where the strategic agenda has been defined as the “road map” towards meeting the goal of the district, which is “To increase student achievement”.  Every decision made within the district has to answer the question, “Will this increase student achievement”?   If it doesn’t then we shouldn’t be doing it!  Whether at the board, administrative, building, maintenance, or support services level we, as an organization, will continually ask ourselves to relate all decisions back to our goal in the strategic agenda.

Policy 100 will be a fundamental tool to engage all staff, teachers, students, and administrators towards a common goal. Decisions made throughout each department will be expected to correspond with one of three objectives: improvement of academic performance, increase readiness for further education or employment, or to ensure that our schools are safe and organized to promote student achievement.    At the beginning of every board meeting the district’s mission statement is read; “To nurture students to become intellectually and personally empowered for citizenship in a changing world”.  I believe the strategic action plan will give district employees, students, parents, business leaders, and community members the opportunity to embrace the changes that will come through the numerous actions steps and ultimately lead MCSD towards becoming central Iowa’s district of choice.
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PERSONNEL

Resignations
Vance Turner, MHS vocational skills teacher, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Has taught in district for 11 years.
Amy Stepec, Lenihan Grade 5, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Has taught in district for 6 years.
Disa Benefield, Franklin Grade 3, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year. Has taught in district for 7.5 years.
Todd Reed, 8th Grade Boys Basketball Coach, effective Feb. 17, 2012.
Melissa Seltman, Fisher LI Tutor, effective Jan. 19, 2012.
William Bucklin, Bus Driver, effective Feb. 29, 2012.
David Case, 7th Grade Boys Track Coach, effective Jan. 15, 2012.
Nicole Jones, Lenihan paraeducator, effective Feb. 23, 2012.

Retirement
Betty Hayek, Rogers School Nurse, effective at the end of the 2011-2012 school year; has been employed with district for 15 years.

Voluntary Retirement Incentive
Nancy Klar, administrative assistant to Associate Superintendent, effective June 30, 2012; has worked for MCSD for 34 years.
Kathryn Elsberry, administrative assistant at Lenihan Intermediate, effective June 30, 2012; has worked for MCSD for 20 years.

Appointments
Rod Hassler, substitute bus driver. Start date: Feb. 2, 2012. Salary determined by route.

Change of Contract
Sue Crawford, Lenihan LI Tutor. Start date: Feb. 21, 2012. Change from 6 hours/day to 7 hours/day.
Pamela Sowers, Lenihan LI Tutor. Start date: Feb. 21, 2012. Change from 4 hours/day to 7 hours/day.
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POLICY

100, District Philosophy, Mission, Beliefs, and Expectations will return as a Second Reading; 100.2, Equal Educational Opportunity, waive second reading; 101.1, Long-Range Needs Assessment, will return as a First Reading.

View PDF version here.

Olivia Stone (left) shares her essay with the Board. Her teacher is Leah Mattox (right).

Award-Winning Essay

Olivia Stone, fifth grade student at Lenihan Intermediate, shared her award-winning essay with the Board Monday night. Stone wrote an essay in Leah Mattox’s class about old worn Army boots as symbols of bravery and freedom. Her essay won the VFW Elementary Essay Contest. She will be recognized by the VFW on Feb. 21.
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Jean Seberg Drama Award returns to MHS

Marshalltown High School students are once again eligible for the Jean Seberg Drama Award, thanks to the Orpheum Theater Center and the MHS Class of 1956.

The Seberg Drama Award was originally established in 1958 and given to a student active all four years in the “Masque and Dagger” drama club directed by Carol Haughton. Award winners had their names on a brass plaque in the auditorium lobby and a $250 monetary prize.

Pip Gordon, director of the Orpheum Theater Center, said money from the Orpheum and a matching gift from the MHS Class of 1956 will re-establish the award, which will continue to be awarded “as long as there is a Jean Seberg Film Festival”.
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Bus driver, food service contracts approved

The Board approved three-year contract agreements with bus drivers and food service personnel Monday night.

The agreement with bus drivers included a change to an 8-step salary scale to recognize longevity, as well as an average of 3 percent annual salary increase each year over the next three years.

The food service contract adds one additional step to the pay scale and provides increases of 2.1 percent in year one, 2.0 percent in year two and 2.25 percent in year three. The contract also abolishes a previous uniform allowance. District attorney Rex Ryden said this also averaged to a total 3.0-3.1 percent increase over 3 years.

There are 65 food service personnel and 45 bus drivers in Marshalltown Schools. The food service contract represents a $28,000/year increase. The bus driver contract is $20,000/year.
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Board approves floor changes to MHS addition

The Board approved paying 60 percent of the cost to install vinyl composition flooring in the second story high school addition, with the contractor covering the remaining 40 percent.

The floor was originally to be polished concrete, which was an additional $27,750 over the base bid. The finished product, while structurally sound, was not aesthetically acceptable because of excessive shrinkage cracks.

Board members agreed that the appearance of the floor was unacceptable. On future projects when various options are presented they asked that potential risks (like the cracking) are made clear before projects are started.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Jennifer Wilson, Board Vice-President

Tonight Physical Education Teacher and Coach Don Wiser introduced to the Board his “Classroom Exercise CD”, a research based approach that is intended to increase student engagement using fitness.  Mr. Wiser was even brave enough to demonstrate a set of exercises to one of the songs.

Each exercise program takes approximately 2-2 ½ minutes and is designed for students to do the exercises next to their desk.  The CD has 14 songs in all with instructional voice over six songs and three slower songs to be used for relaxation, stretching or calming purposes. This inspirational product is not to replace gym time but is designed to increase student’s heart rates after they sit for long periods of time; to me it sounds like a great idea between ITBS tests or after a long Board meetings!

According to researchers from the University of Illinois, students who have short exercise programs within daily instruction perform better on tests and pay attention in class better.  Researchers have seen a strong correlation between fitness and reading comprehension with some students increasing a full grade level after they had exercised (ASCD In-service, 2009).

Mr. Wiser reports at least 45 K-4 grade teachers in the district already use his CD Exercise program, commenting that the teachers who use the exercise CD have told him they do see an increase in their children’s academic engagement, especially when outdoor recess is not an option.  They also have commented on the impact the relaxing songs on the CD have when students need to re-engage into subject matter.

This fitness creation, again, shows how MCSD has creative teachers who are willing to think beyond routine for the betterment of Marshalltown’s youth.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening, the Board of Education approved three-year settlement agreements with transportation and food service employees that include longevity pay adjustments. The Board also approved a new policy: Twelve-Month Secretary Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program (policy 413.7).

I encourage any 12-month secretary who is contemplating retirement to closely examine policy 413.7. It can be found by going to the District website (www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us) and selecting the “School Board” tab on the right. Near the bottom of the Board of Directors screen is a section called “Board Policy.” Policy 413.7 can be found by clicking on the “400 Series – Personnel” link.

I appreciate the Board’s continued commitment to attracting, retaining – and compensating – high-quality staff in our district. This commitment was once again demonstrated by tonight’s approval of settlement agreements and the new voluntary retirement policy.
—

PERSONNEL

Resignations
Margaret Catron, bus monitor, effective Nov. 7, 2011.
Tom Carlson, bus driver, effective Feb. 3, 2012.
Alison Brezina, bus driver, effective Jan. 27, 2012.
Martha Landmark, Woodbury paraeducator, effective Feb. 2, 2012.
Danielle Lamb, MHS paraeducator, effective Dec. 18, 2011.
Jerry Appel, MHS varsity boys golf coach, effective Jan. 4, 2012.

Retirement
Ellen Slifer, Lenihan food service, effective Dec. 30, 2011; has worked for food service approximately 19 1/2 years.

Appointments
Melissa Seltman, Fisher Grade 3 teacher. Start date: Feb. 7, 2012. Salary: BA Step 5.
Mahlon Maxwell, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Feb. 7, 2012. Salary: $8.47/hour.
Kelley Dickey, MHS assistant girls golf coach. Start date: Feb. 7, 2012. Salary: $1,914/year.
Jeffrey Lamb, MHS head softball coach. Start date: Feb. 7, 2012. Salary: $5,024/year.
Joshua Menuey, MHS assistant boys soccer coach. Start date: Feb. 7, 2012. Salary: $3,190/year.

Change of Contract
Ginna Randall, Anson Grade 1 teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year. Change from Grade 1 to Grade 2.
Julie Thede, Anson Kindergarten. Start date: 2012-2013 school year. Change from kindergarten to Grade 1.
Cedra Baccam, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 5, 2011. Change from 5.5 hours to 6.0 hours on Wednesdays.
Deena Chedester, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 5, 2011. Change from 6.5 hours to 7.0 hours on Wednesdays.
John Saunders, bus driver. Start date: Jan. 30, 2012. Change from substitute bus driver to regular bus driver. Salary: $4,252/remainder of 2011-2012 school year.
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POLICY

First Reading
413.7 Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive Program for 12-Month Secretaries, same policy as given to administrators and certified staff, would open window for 2011-2012 school year, approved (waive second reading)

Initial Review
100 District Philosophy, Mission, Beliefs and Expectations, change some of the wording to specifically reference Strategic Action Plan; 100.1 Name of School District, mark reviewed; 100.2 Equal Educational Opportunity, changed “employment” to “educational activities”.
—

View PDF version here.

Community meeting focuses on third grade literacy

About 70 community members gathered at an “Education About Education” seminar Jan. 7, part of Marshalltown’s campaign to become an All-American City.

The event was a collaborative effort between Mid-Iowa Community Action and the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation. The day-long meeting consisted of various sessions about the challenges students face when it comes to learning and how Marshalltown can come together to support three main areas: school readiness, summer learning and attendance.

The All-American City award is a program of the National Civic League. Each year the award has a specific focus. The 2012 award is focused on increasing the number of low-income students reading at grade level by third grade. In 2011 Marshalltown was a finalist for the award, which focused on community involvement.

“How fortunate for us as a school district that we had so many key community players there talking about ‘our stuff’,” said Matt Tullis, director of equity and learning supports. He and Special Services Director Lisa Glenn talked about the seminar with the Board.
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Attendance sees increase over 2010-2011

Attendance rates for the first four months of school show an overall increase, according to data shared by Human Resources Director Lisa Koester Monday evening.

In the district Strategic Action Plan, having district attendance at or above 95 percent is part of the objective to improve student engagement. Koester noted that in the first four months of the 2011-2012 school year attendance was not always above 95 percent, but three out of four months did show improvement over 2010-2011 attendance rates.

Koester explained to the Board some of the strategies currently being implemented in Marshalltown Schools to improve attendance. They include Smaller Learning Communities at Marshalltown High School, with students assigned to specific principals, counselors, deans and Learning Supports Specialists; utilization of the LSS for communication, home visits, program assistance and transportation; better defining the District attendance policy; working with the Marshall County Attorney’s office to support prosecution for chronic truancy; meeting with parents when requesting long absences for children; working with large employers to explain expectations for school attendance; phone calls to tardy students and other initiatives.

“We’ve had more assistance from the county attorney and we appreciate it,” Koester said.

She told the Board there was still work to be done, especially in the next few months, when attendance usually dips the as many families take extended trips out of state.
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Board reviews results from first  IPI observations

Observation results from the Instructional Practices Inventory (IPI) were shared with the Board Monday.

The IPI process is a set of strategies for profiling student engagement on six categories. This data helps teachers assess and enhance their teaching process to increase engagement and with it student achievement.

The District worked with consultants from Area Education Agency 267, which sent a team of certified trainers to collect baseline information. They will also help train District staff to do future observations.

Over the course of seven days consultants made 1,113 observations of classrooms in every building. Most buildings had more than 100 observations.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, explained that observations are ranked according to six categories of engagement – with 1 being the lowest and 6 being the highest. Most observations fell in the middle categories (ranking 3 and 4), with about 13% falling in the top two tiers and 14% in the lower two tiers.

Pecinovsky said the goal is to move toward more engagement, which means more observations at the 5 and 6 level and fewer at 1 and 2. She said work like Common Unit Design, alignment of materials to standards and benchmarks, and established processes for accelerating students are helping to increase engagement.

The next steps for the District include a training session with principals on Jan. 31. Dr. Jerry Valentine, who helped develop IPI, will be on hand to facilitate that training. On March 1 principals will then work with their building teams to train others for observations. There will also be another round of observations in the spring.
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Board considers early retirement program for 12-month secretaries

The Board looked at a new policy Monday evening that would provide an early retirement package for 12-month secretaries.

Human Resources Director said the policy is the same as that offered to teachers and administrators, which provides for continuation of district insurance. She said the hope was to offer this as a benefit to employees with long tenures in Marshalltown Schools.

If approved the retirement window would be opened sometime mid-February and close in mid-March.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening’s meeting included presentations about student attendance and student engagement in our district.  Each report provided baseline data and a description of actions being taken to improve attendance and engagement – two factors which influence student achievement.  New research shows that students who attend school between 85 and 100 percent of the time are proficient on state assessments at much higher rates than students who attend school less than 85 percent of the time.  Similarly, students who are actively engaged in learning score higher on content knowledge, as well as 21st Century Skills of critical thinking, complex communication, creativity, collaboration, productivity and adaptability.
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

Generally speaking, school board members are not educators; we come from varied business and personal backgrounds, sharing a keen interest in—but a limited knowledge of—the educational program in our school district.  We are seven ordinary people in whose hands rests the fate of every child growing up in our community.  WE have a ton of learning to do!  That learning is called “board development,” and each of our meetings is structured to contribute to our pool of information.  Tonight’s meeting was especially rich in learning opportunities; the Education portion of the agenda was full of well-interpreted and presented, pertinent data about student attendance and student engagement in learning.  Our evening ended with two non-public sessions (each specifically allowed in the Code of Iowa) during which we continued to learn about how the district operates financially—and about what an awesome responsibility we are charged with in regard to nurturing students “to become intellectually and personally empowered for citizenship in a changing world.”
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PERSONNEL

Resignations
Patrick Stansberry, Fisher Grade 3 teacher, effective Jan. 16, 2012; has taught in MCSD for 5 1/2 years.
Traci Wright, Woodbury paraeducator, effective Jan. 30, 2012.
Abbie Lampman, MHS paraeducator, effective Dec. 6, 2011.
Aimee Eitel, Franklin paraeducator, effective Jan. 9, 2012.
Deb Wollam, MHS assistant cheerleading coach, effective Jan. 8, 2012.
Olivia Aguilera, Miller bilingual tutor, effective Jan. 6, 2012.

Appointments
Dana Rosacker, Rogers paraeducator. Start date TBD; salary: $8.47/hour.
Kelsey Sawtelle, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; salary: $8.47/hour.
Melissa Marks, Hoglan paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; salary: $9.48/hour.
Emily Hunt, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 19, 2012; salary: $9.48/hour.
Dusty Edwards, Hoglan paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; salary: $9.48/hour.
Sandy Lurvey, bus monitor. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; salary: $9.35/hour.
Marla Peter, Miller food service. Start date: Nov. 30, 2011; salary: $9.58/hour.
Jessica Starn, MHS food service. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012. Salary: $9.84/hour.
Ivan Guerra, MHS assistant girls soccer coach. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; salary: $3,190/year.
Manuel Ordaz Rios, Fisher bilingual tutor. Start date: Jan. 17, 2012; salary: $11/hour.

Transfer
Matt Nevins, Anson Grade 2 teacher to Anson Grade 3 teacher. Start date: 2012-2013 school year.
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POLICY

Lisa Koester distributed a policy review schedule for the next year that was developed with Board Vice-President Jennifer Wilson.
Initial Review: NEW POLICY 413.7 Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive for 12-Month Employees (Secretaries)
—

View PDF version.

MAP assessments used to inform instruction

The Board learned about the MAP assessment – or Measure of Academic Progress – during Monday’s meeting.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, explained the tests to the Board, which have been used at secondary levels for several years in the district, but in the last three years have been given to students in grades 2 through 11.

“It’s a computerized adapted test,” Pecinovsky said. “[That] means students take them online and as students score them correctly they become more challenging and as they score incorrectly they become less challenging.”

Since each student receives different questions depending on how they answer, scores aren’t compared student-to-student. Instead, they’re compared to national norms called RIT scores.

Data collected on the MAP test is used to inform instruction. Teachers can look at a student’s RIT score in a subject area and using the Des Cartes Learning Continuum map out the skills and concepts they need to work on to be successful.

“We don’t have any other assessment we give that is online and is responsive to the students’ knowledge base,” Pecinovsky said.

The district is improving how it uses MAP assessments, including examining if data from MAP assessments can be used to predict performance on other exams like the Iowa Assessment.
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District facilities projects remain on schedule

The hallway in the Fisher Elementary addition just days before students moved into the space in November. Students occupied the new addition so work could begin remodeling the original building.

Work on three district facilities projects remains on schedule.

District architect Dave Schulze and Buildings & Grounds Director Rick Simpson updated the Board on work at Fisher Elementary, Miller Middle School and Marshalltown High School Monday night.

Fisher Elementary, which is undergoing a major renovation, remodeling and addition, is still on track for completion of all site work by Aug. 10, 2012. In November part of the new addition was opened, with classes moving into the new space so work could continue in the existing building. Simpson said the process of phasing students into the new space is working well, allowing them to spot any issues in the new space a little at a time while students and teachers get acclimated.

Work on the second floor addition at MHS is on schedule for substantial completion on Jan. 20, with occupancy by Jan. 25.

The security and surveillance project at Miller and MHS is also on track, with current work including final adjustments on camera angles and preparation to formally train selected staff for use of the equipment.
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Professional development day held Jan. 2

Monday, Jan. 2, wasn’t a school day for students, but instead a day of learning and collaboration for teachers.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the Board about the many professional development sessions scheduled during the day, all connected to the five areas of the district Strategic Action Plan.

Many Sessions focused on Common Unit Design, literacy, and the Iowa Assessment (formerly the Iowa Test of Basic Skills). In the Iowa Assessment sessions, participants were able to work through the exam and how it is administered, with follow-up conversations about what it means for instruction.

“That was a great conversation today I had the opportunity to be a part of,” Pecinovsky said.

The District used EdJobs funding to pay teachers for their time. The full-day session was planned in order to keep teachers in the classroom with students instead of pulling them out intermittently throughout the year for training.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

In education we tend to speak more about the school year than the calendar year, yet tonight’s meeting included several references to the start of a new year – especially in the areas of construction and educational programs.

Construction in 2012 will include completion of the MHS second floor addition, the Fisher Elementary expansion and remodeling project, design work for renovating the Roundhouse, and an update to our long-term Capital Improvements Project list.

Educational programming will include expansion of preschool classrooms into all six elementary schools; and continued implementation of Common Unit Design, Sheltered Instruction, Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports, Response to Instruction and Intervention, and our Language Literacy Framework.  Additionally, the District’s Strategic Action Plan will remain the driving force behind District continuous improvement efforts – including reform plans of Marshalltown High School, Miller Middle School and Lenihan Intermediate School.

Much more will be accomplished in 2012 than was presented on this short list of items mentioned this evening.  I look forward to the challenge of MCSD exceeding community expectations during the new year as we “nurture students to become intellectually and personally empowered for citizenship in a changing world.”

Happy New Year.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

As we listened to the reports regarding the progress of building/renovation projects currently underway in our schools, I couldn’t help feeling an immense sense of pride in the patrons of our district.

It’s been nearly ten years since voters passed a twenty-five million dollar bond issue for the purpose of upgrading facilities in the district.  I see that as a turning point in the history of Marshalltown; it was then that we as a community came together and said, in essence, that we believe in the future of Marshalltown. And with that vote we also indicated our belief in the value of education.

Today as we near the end of that long list of major facilities improvements, our educators are also coming together in a very purposeful way to make major improvements in the education that’s being delivered within those improved walls.  There is a sense of urgency and a strong renewal of the commitment to excellence in every facet of the educational program in our district.  Hang on to your hats; MCSD is taking off!
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Personnel

Resignations
Ana Huerta, Fisher Bilingual Tutor; effective Dec. 16, 2011.
—

Download PDF version.

Durrant Group named architect for Roundhouse project

Durrant Group, Inc., will be the architect for the renovation, refurbishment and expansion of the MHS Roundhouse.

Durrant, a firm with offices in Des Moines, was recommended to the Board by the Design Advisory Committee: a group of board members, community members and district personnel.

The DAC received proposals from seven firms and selected four to interview. Each firm had an hour and a half presentation/interview with the DAC last week before the decision was made.

“This committee and this group of people we’ve met in this experience has been outstanding,” said Mike Lewis, senior vice president of Durrant who will serve as principal in charge of the project. “The Roundhouse is fabulous and we look forward to making it even better.”
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District to apply for competency-based instruction waiver

Marshalltown Schools will apply for a competency-based instruction waiver from the Department of Education.

The waiver would allow the district flexibility with the definition of “units” and “credits” as defined in Chapter 12 of Iowa Code. Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the Board this waiver would let the district look at different ways students can earn credits and demonstrate mastery of a subject.

The waiver was just announced by the state on Dec. 8 and is due by Jan. 1. Dr. Pecinovsky told the Board she’s excited for the flexibility to begin looking at new and innovative ways to meet the needs of students at all ability levels and position Marshalltown Schools as leaders in the State of Iowa.

“When we look at this district being a district of choice we want to position ourselves to be ahead of things in the state,” she said.

Once the District receives formal approval, Dr. Pecinovsky said work would begin on developing plans for small-scale pilot programs.
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Lego League teams headed to state

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The two FIRST Lego League teams heading to the state competition came before the Board Monday night, sharing some of their presentation and project highlights.

Lenihan’s Extended Learning Program team won the overall Championship, in a field of 32 Central Iowa teams, by earning the highest combined scores in all four competition categories:  Robot Challenge, Technical Interview, Research Presentation, and FLL Core Values.  Members of Team Mu are sixth graders: Joseph Anguiano, Joshua Arment, Lucas Duff, Maggie Grimm, Jill Podhajsky, and Martin Runquist.

The 2011-2012 FLL theme is “Food Factor”. Throughout the fall semester, the team has researched milk production and possible bacterial contamination points.  Based on this research, the students wrote a project presentation, designed an innovative solution to the contamination problem, and compiled an annotated bibliography of their research sources.

The “Space Unicorns” from Miller Middle School won a trophy in Project Presentation, where teams explore an actual problem that scientists are trying to solve, develop an innovative solution, and share their findings.

This year’s theme is “Food Factor”, and the Space Unicorns’ project focused on the use of lasers in chicken processing as a means of reducing microbial contamination. The team includes Mary Drummer, Nick Summers, Whitney Canaday, Juliana Osgood, Tim Potter, Jacob Ramsey Smith, James Drummer, and Ethan Thill.  Joel Thill assists as a tech coach.

Both teams will compete at the state tournament Jan. 14, 2012, at Iowa State University.
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Change orders approved

Change orders for the Fisher Elementary project and the MHS second floor addition were approved.

The Fisher project is 60 percent complete and the MHS project is 91 percent complete. Both projects are within the budget set aside in the project to cover change orders.

The Board also approved a change order to add security cameras at the bus barn and the parking lot north of Marshalltown Learning Academy.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

A highlight of tonight’s meeting was the opportunity to meet teams from Lenihan and Miller that will compete at the state FIRST LEGO League contest in January.

The students from “Team Mu” and “Space Unicorns” provided informative and entertaining award-winning presentations – and linked academic knowledge with practical experience gained through participation in one of MCSD’s many clubs, teams and organizations.  Continued support of these activities is important to MCSD because they contribute to the development of well-rounded individuals: Researchers report that involved students tend to be more self-confidence and to have higher educational ambitions as the result of increased opportunities to learn how to work together with others, to communicate, to manage time, and to resolve conflict.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

One a School Board’s roles is to develop and work toward a vision for the district—a picture of what they have as a goal for their schools—so this evening’s Board Development time was spent brainstorming on that topic.

The ideas that were voiced  included:  “a district of choice—a destination district,”  “a district where diversity is recognized as an opportunity instead of a challenge, “a district that finds each child’s individual gift and then helps them realize their full potential,” “a district that recognizes and nurtures the value of caring adults in each child’s life,” “a district where students are truly and fully engaged in learning,” and “a district which nurtures an atmosphere of respect among students and teachers.”  I believe that all of these attributes are present to some degree in our district right now, and I am confident that we are continually working toward strengthening these positive attributes. I just wish that more people would celebrate the GOOD in our schools and fewer people would dwell on the problems that still exist.
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Personnel

Resignations
Heather Smith, Rogers paraeducator, Dec. 9, 2011.
Melinda Krull, Hoglan paraeducator, Dec. 4, 2011.
Melody Bennett, Franklin paraeducator, Dec. 6, 2011.
Alyson Rowley, Miller paraeducator, effective Dec. 29, 2011.
Aaron Shipley, Special Olympics Coordinator, effective May 31, 2011.

Appointments
Megan Morrow, Anson ELL teacher. Start date TBD; Salary: BA Step 5 $38,909.
Jordan Johnson, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 20, 2011; Salary: $9.48/hour.
Julie Brewer, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; Salary: $8.47/hour.
Mary Hassenwinkle, Lenihan paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 20, 2011; Salary: $8.47/hour.
Stephanie Farrell, MHS head cheerleading coach. Start date: Dec. 19, 2011; Salary: $1435.52.
Jessica Hargrave, bus driver. Start date: Nov. 14, 2011; Salary: $3295.30.
Sarah Rodriguez, MLA paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; Salary: $9.48/hour.

Change of Contract
Kara Swaim, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 20, 2011. Change to 7 hours/day (6 hours/day on Wednesdays).
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Policy

First Reading– Second reading waived.
202.5 Board of Directors’ Conflict of Interest, waive second reading; 401.2 Employee Conflict of Interest; 701.4 Governmental Accounting Practices and Regulations; 705.1 Purchasing.

804.2 and 804.2R Video Surveillance and Electronic Monitoring, change policy so recordings are held 18 days instead of 30 days.
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