The Board Report

Woodbury Elementary School Principal Anel Garza talks during the school’s attendance center update to the board on March 21. Also pictured from left are Julie Thede, Mary Harris and Sue Cahill.

Woodbury Elementary Attendance Center plan
Woodbury Principal Anel Garza, along with staff members Sue Cahill, Jasmine Hazen, Becky Jacobson,  Mary Harris, Gladis Gonzalez, and Julie Thede, presented the annual attendance center plan to the board.

There are 295 English Learner students in the school, which represent 85 of the total Woodbury students. Cahill talked about the dual language program, which has been in place since 2003-04 at Woodbury.

The Woodbury attendance center plan has two specific goals under reading and math. The attendance center plan has five actions to address these goals.

The group also talked about SIOP (Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol), CLM (Comprehensive Literacy Model), Spanish and English Standards, parent involvement and several other strategies. The group also talked about assessment scores.

Recognition
Marshalltown High School junior Mitch Eberle was recognized for his achievement of the highest possible composite score on the ACT test. Eberle took the test last fall and earned a 36 composite score. He said he was thankful for all the congratulatory messages he’s received since the news was released.

Personnel 

For personnel items, click here.

Public Comment
MHS senior Nathaniel Harris said he would like the whole district to recite the Pledge of Allegiance daily. He is asking for a policy to give every student the opportunity to recite the pledge. Currently, some schools recite the pledge and some do not. Board President Bea Niblock said board policies will be researched on this matter and it could be brought up for discussion at a later time.

Marshalltown High School Health Careers Club trip
Members of the leadership team of the MHS Health Careers Club took a trip to San Antonio in February. Accompanying the group were MHS Dean of Students Dan Terrones and staff member Meredith Goldman. Both Terrones and Goldman were at the board meeting, along with health careers club students Samantha Lammert and Kyli Jacobsen. The group visited a health careers high school, and the Center for the Intrepid, for burn victims and amputees. The group also visited several tourist sites including the River Walk.

“I’m very proud of the nine students who went on this trip,” Terrones said.

The group is beginning to take steps toward creating a health careers academy at Marshalltown High School, Terrones said. To learn more about the trip, click here.

School Calendar
The 2016-17 school calendar was presented by Director of Human Resources Lisa Koester and was approved by the board. To view the calendar, click here . 2016-17 calendars in both English and Spanish are posted on the Marshalltown Schools website under the “calendars” link.
“The calendar is created by a committee of teachers, administrators and a board member,” Koester said.
School will start on Tuesday, August 23, 2016.

Food Service meal prices for 2016-17
Food Service Director Lynn Large presented the meal prices for 2016-17. Increases were approved of 10 cents for 5-12 breakfast to $1.50 and 5-12 lunch to raise 5 cents to $2.45. Adult breakfast is going up 5 cents to $1.80 and adult lunches remain at $3.50.
Milk is unchanged at 35 cents as is reduced lunch and breakfast prices.
Kindergarten through 4th grade will continue to have meals at no cost in 2016-17 as part of the Community Eligibility Provision, which started this school year.

Budget Reductions for Fiscal Year 2017
A list of $1.46 million in proposed district budget reductions for the fiscal year 2017 was presented to the board by Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade and the administrative cabinet. To view the list, click here.

These reductions are proposed for three reasons: 1) State Supplemental Aid for fiscal year 2017 has not been established; 2) settlements have not yet been negotiated with employee bargaining units; and, 3) the fiscal year 17 certified budget is scheduled for approval at the April 4, 2016 board meeting.

Dr. Wade said the $1.46 million in reductions prepares the district for what is going to occur budget-wise over the next couple of months, including negotiations and state funding.

Discussion was held between the board, Dr. Wade and several administrators around the reasoning for several of the specific reductions.

The board approved reductions on the list 1-7, 9-13, 16 and 17. The board wanted further information on No. 8 (MHS math tutor), No. 14 (move computer replacement to SAVE/PPEL), and No. 15 (Reduce 25 percent portion of at-risk budget) and did not vote for approval of those reductions.

Rick Simpson and Heidi Pierson talk about the Roundhouse Public Art project. The four finalists are displayed on the board pictured.

Roundhouse Public Art Committee
Heidi Pierson of the Marshalltown Public Art Committee said the selection committee of 15 people has been hard at work researching for this art project to be located at the MHS Roundhouse. It is grant funded through a $250,000 Iowa Great Places grant. There are 4 finalists for the project, which were described in detail by Board Member Ben Stansberry, who is also on the selection committee. They are in the public comment process of the selection. The selection committee will make the decision after input and comments from the community. Buildings and Grounds Director Rick Simpson also was part of this presentation to the board. More information on the project is available at the Marshalltown Public Library.

At-Risk/Droupout Modified Supplemental Amount
Associate Superintendent Dr. Susan Pecinovsky presented documents on the at-risk  budget. She said the goal is to use the funds to help students complete their education. Dr. Pecinovsky outlined the staff in place who are funded by this budget as well as services provided. The board decided to include the proposed $150,000 in at-risk reductions back into the funding.

Policies
202.5 – Board of Directors’ Conflict of Interest – Marked as reviewed
202.7 – Individual Board Members – Marked at reviewed
203.1 – Formulation, Review and Revision of Policy – Marked as reviewed
203.2 – Adoption of Administration Rules and Regulations- Marked as reviewed
203.4 – Ad Hoc Committee – Marked as reviewed
603.12 – Internet Appropriate and Safe Use – Changes made will come back at first reading.
603.12R – Electronic Resources and Electronic Mail – Appropriate Use Regulation -Will come back to board as first reading.

From Board President Bea Niblock
“The board has begun one of its most difficult challenges. It is engaged in the process of balancing the budget – a balancing act, indeed. This board has diligently looked at past state funding, past tax levies and past budgets; then, future funding possibilities, future tax levies and future negotiation settlements.

Last night’s meeting was the first where board members were faced with the gut wrenching decisions of what to cut from the budget in a possible ‘worst case’ scenario of funding streams. Each item was looked at individually with consideration to cutting those things furthest from touching children.

Please know that the current board members give each suggested cut serious and very deliberate consideration before making a decision. We will continue to give the budget our diligent attention in the meetings to come.” – Bea Niblock

Marshalltown High School English teacher Jocelyn Frohwein presents a certificate to MHS sophomore Dylan Roseburrough at the school board meeting on March 7. Roseburrough received an honorable mention award from the Belin-Blank Center Scholastic Art and Writing Awards for his short story.

Recognitions
Marshalltown High School sophomore Dylan Roseburrough was recognized by English teacher Jocelyn Frohwein. Roseburrough received an honorable mention for his short story from the Belin-Blank Center Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Dylan said he really enjoys writing and liked this project. To read his story, click here.

“It really helped me grow as a writer,” Roseburrough said. He is currently working on a novel.

Elementary art teacher Maggie Parks talked about her national excellence award from the United States Society for Education through Art. Parks will receive it later this month in Chicago. “We are proud,” Board President Bea Niblock told Parks.

Personnel
Current Marshalltown High School Dean of Students Justin Boliver has been named Associate Principal at MHS, effective July 1. He will replace Dr. Kenneth Hayes, who is leaving the district for another position.

For all personnel items approved by the board, click here. 

Public comment
Marshalltown High School Student Senate members, Morgan Van Staalduine, junior class president, and Trevor Lewis junior class vice president, said they are helping to organize a community-wide Summer Olympics, which will include swimming, track, soccer, cycling, tennis and volleyball from July 22-24.

“We are doing this to get a positive thing in our community,” Van Staalduine said.

It will serve as a fundraiser for MHS school clubs and provide a to-be-determined donation to benefit the community.

St. Francis Catholic School
St. Francis Catholic School Principal Dr. Matt Herrick talked about the relationship his school has with the Marshalltown Community School District.

St. Francis leaders are in talks to revise its strategic plan, which MCSD will do as well. Herrick said good communication will help align strategic plans. Since most of the St. Francis students end up at Miller Middle School, it makes sense to be on the same page.

“We want to make sure we align and support what you are trying to do,” Herrick said.

Competency-Based Education
Associate Superintendent Dr. Susan Pecinovsky provided an update on Competency-Based Education, which is in year three in the district.

CBE has a goal for creating innovative pathways for student learning that allow for student choice and remove barriers. It’s a way where students advance based on proficiency. District teams continue to work on this initiative.

To view the full report, which includes much of this work, click here. 

Marshalltown Learning Academy attendance center plan
Principal Eric Goslinga presented the annual attendance center plan from MLA, the alternative learning environment for grades 9-12 in the district. A total of 178 students have earned a diploma at MLA the past seven years. Goslinga said many of these students most likely would not have received a diploma if it weren’t for MLA.

Currently MLA is serving 60 students, but there is a plan to expand the number of students they are able to serve, he said.

MLA staff utilize the Competency-Based educational model. Goslinga talked about PELO (Personalized Extended Learning Opportunity) that allows students to tap into their interests in their learning. MLA has received recognition as an exemplar program for disruptive innovation in the area of blended learning.

Medicaid Provider
Director of Special Services Matt Cretsinger and Dann Stevens, CEO of Timberline Billing Services, presented a 3-year agreement for Timberline as a Medicaid provider. Third party companies such as Timberline have all the knowledge and skills to help the district receive Medicaid reimbursements, Cretsinger said. Timberline is based in Des Moines. The district pays a fee of 6 percent of the net Medicaid reimbursement retained by the district to Timberline as part of the agreement. The agreement was approved by the board and it will start July 1, 2016.

Special Education Compliance Audit
Cretsinger presented this audit from the Special Education department. Every five years Special Education has to go through an audit from the AEA as required by the Iowa Department of Education. No issues were found in IEPs in this audit, which is good news to report. Cretsinger credited the teachers and other staff for the time and effort put into this great work.

Certified Budget
Director of Business Operations Brian Bartz presented information on the 2016-17 certified budget. Bartz proposed an $18.69 per thousand valuation tax rate as a recommendation. The rate recommended is the worst case scenario (highest tax rate) since there has been no decision on additional funding for schools from the state. This rate can be lowered after being published in the newspaper, but can’t be raised. The best case scenario of 2.5 percent growth from the state would push levy rate down to 17.93.  The current tax rate is $18.33.

Board polices
201.2 – Legal Status of the Board of Directors – Marked as reviewed
201.3 – Responsibilities of the Board of Directors– Marked as reviewed
201.5 – Membership – Marked as reviewed
201.6 – Term of Office – Marked as reviewed
201.7 – Organization of the Board- Marked as reviewed.

Committee reports
Roundhouse art committee – Board member Ben Stansberry gave the update and said they are down to four finalists for this project a major art piece at the Roundhouse. They plan to be on the board agenda for the March 21 meeting to talk more about this effort. The goal is to have a project approved by April 1.

The board then went into a closed session.

Roundhouse roof
After the closed session, the board voted to accept the Roundhouse roof portion settlement as presented. This includes a recovering of the roof at a later date.

From Board President Bea Niblock
“Has it been your dream to be a participant or a medal winner in the Olympics? Now is your chance!

Two high school students, Morgan and Trevor, shared plans for a community wide Olympics to be held from July 22-24. At this time, they are looking for sponsors for the event. The Marshalltown Y has already agreed to be a sponsor and will host the swimming events. Watch for further information to be coming from these visionary and energetic young people.

If running, swimming or track and field events are your passions, you’ll want to showcase your talents. Can you see yourself on the steps with other medal winners? Gather your friends and get ready for Marshalltown’s Summer Olympics.” – Bea Niblock

Marshalltown Learning Academy teacher David Ackerman, center, talks about the recent academic decathlon. Taking part in the decathlon were MLA students, also pictured, Noel Diggins, left, and Brandon Howell, right.

Recognitions
Marshalltown Learning Academy teacher David Ackerman and students Noel Diggins and Brandon Howell talked about the academic decathlon held in Grundy Center on Jan. 27. Both Diggins and Howell received multiple awards at the event, which featured 10 rounds of academic competition with a focus this year on India.

For personnel items, click here. 

MHS art trip to Minnesota
MHS art teachers Kirk Niehouse, Wade Judge and Rebecca Erickson asked for permission to have 45 art students take a trip to Minneapolis. The one-day trip will be on March 5 as the group will visit the Minnesota Institute of Art, the Walker Art Museum and the Weisman Art Gallery. The request was approved by the board. All out-of-state school trips need board approval.

Youth art show
The art teachers also reminded the board of the youth art show reception 1-3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Fisher Community Center. The student art will be on display throughout March at the center.

Peaceful protest
Immigrant Allies representative Joa LaVille along with Maria Gonzalez and Tonia Fonseca presented. They talked about the peaceful protest held outside the MHS Roundhouse during the campaign visit by Donald Trump. They said they were proud of the students and other community members who represented themselves with dignity and character during the protest.

Annual Measurable Achievement Objectives and Lau Plan
English Learners Program Coordinator Rachel Inks and Associate Superintendent Dr. Susan Pecinovsky presented this plan, which outlined support provided to English Learners in the district. Approximately 37 percent of the student population in the district are English Learners as there are 1,797 students in this group.

Marshalltown has the third highest EL count in the state and third highest percentage of EL students in the state.

The common trend is to refer to students as English Learners, but they also have been known as English Language Learners or Limited English Proficient in the past.

The Lau Plan must be submitted to the Iowa Department of Education every Sept. 15. This spring all of the English Learners will do state language assessment online for the first time. 

Super News
Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade said they have a five-year window to review all board policies in the school district. That cycle was recently completed and the oldest policy in place right now was last reviewed in 2012. The review of the policies started back at the 100 level at this meeting.

Strategic Action Plan
The board put an update of this plan on hold as they would like to have the next superintendent involved in this plan. 

Audit Report for 2014-15
Director of Business Operations Brian Bartz introduced Jason Doonan from the auditors Nolte, Cornman and Johnson, who presented the district Audit Report for fiscal year 2015. General fund revenues for the fiscal year 2015 increased by $2,329,576 to $60,148,845. Expenditures increased from $57,178,329 to $59,530,791.

The board accepted the audit. For the audit report, click here.

MHS West Administration Annex
Director of Buildings and Grounds Rick Simpson and Architect Dave Schulze of TSP presented on this item. The agenda item was an amendment to the previous contract with TSP, for the MHW West Administrator Annex project, which is on hold. Approval of this amendment would allow the project to close and pay the architect for the contract.

The board expressed concern about this payment due to the project being stalled in part due to a low estimate by the architect. The board approved the amended contract, 6-1.

MHS Roundhouse Phase II
Simpson, Schulze and Phil Hodgin, with the architectural firm RDG, presented on this item. This amendment would update the current design contract with RDG and create a design team contract with TSP for Phase 2 of the Roundhouse.

TSP would provide project manager services for Phase 2, which includes an auxiliary gym and a wrestling room. The board decided to table this item until the board can receive more information on Phase 1 and the issues involved in the project that can be expressed to them at a later time. 

Board Policies  

504.33 – Life Threatening Allergies – New policy approved and waived second reading.

100, 100-E-1, 100-E2, 100- E3, 100.1. These were marked as reviewed. Since these policies have to do with the Strategic Action Plan, they will be readdressed when the new superintendent is hired and the next plan is in the works.

Lindsey Upah, center, updates the board on the work of the Spread the Words-Read by Third community group at the Feb. 1, 2016 meeting. Also pictured at the table, from left, is Bettie Bolar, Karina Hernandez, Randy Wetmore and Emily Banks.

Spread the Words – Read by Third

Lindsey Upah, Emily Banks, Bettie Bolar, Karina Hernandez, Craig Van Pay and Randy Wetmore presented an update on the work of the Spread the Words – Read by Third group focused on improving literacy skills in youth.

Bolar talked about Munch and More, a summer reading program during the summer meals program. It started at Anson and has been added at Franklin and this year will go to Rogers.

“We get to share our love of reading and our love of books with these kids over the summer,” Bolar said.

Karina Hernandez from Mid-Iowa Community Action and coordinator for Rogers University, updated the board on this successful summer program. She reported third grade reading proficiency jumped to 82 percent in 2014-2015 from 58 percent 2013-14 in the Rogers program.

“That was our big success this year at Rogers University,” Hernandez said.

The group is still seeking funding for the 2016 summer for Rogers University as the grant funds that started the program have ended.

City Administrator Randy Wetmore talked about the work of the attendance task force, which works on cutting down chronic absence of students.

“We really work on trying to get the kids there every day,” Wetmore said.

Wetmore talked about attendance recognition meetings held at schools and the smiles he sees as students are awarded stickers for good attendance. It was noted that kindergarten tends to have the highest levels of chronic absence of the class levels.

Craig Van Pay of Mid-Iowa Community Action talked about school readiness goals and the importance of early childhood development. They have a community education campaign and neighborhood preschool camps as part of this effort.

District Preschool Coordinator Emily Banks talked about kindergarten teachers who partner with the programs to answer questions from preschool programs.

Budget Development Parameters

Director of Business Operations Brian Bartz and Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade presented a budget update. The budget will depend on state funding and where employee groups settle with negotiations.

The budget for the 2016-17 fiscal year is due to the county by April 15.  Possible reductions will be discussed in the district in the coming weeks.

Roundhouse Update

MHS teacher and swim coach Mike Loupee and community member Tim Hoffman asked the board to consider naming the Marshalltown High School Roundhouse court after a Bobcat athletics legend to be announced at the Feb. 12 Roundhouse celebration.

Board policy indicates the person must be deceased to have a facility in his or her name, and the person Loupee and Hoffman want to honor is still living.

The policy indicates certain requirements of the policy can be waived at the board’s discretion if there is a gift. Loupee and Hoffman said they will raise $1,000 in donations as a gift. Their request to name the floor in honor of the Bobcat legend was approved by the board.

There will be a special Roundhouse celebration ceremony at the Feb. 12 basketball games against Ames, 51 years to the day after the first basketball game was played at the Roundhouse, which was also against Ames.

Meeting agenda

The meeting agenda was abbreviated to allow those in attendance the ability to caucus that night. The next regular meeting of the school board is scheduled for 5 p.m. Feb. 15 in district offices.

Personnel

For personnel items, click here.

From Board President Bea Niblock

“The board had the opportunity to hear about the work of the Spread the Words—Read by Third! (RB3!) Committee. Lindsey Upah and the steering committee shared the work of this community partnership in its work to improve literacy skills of young children in Marshalltown.

RB3! has been in operation since Marshalltown was given the status of All American City in 2012. The RB3!’s plan to boost those literacy skills includes improving school attendance, building a solid foundation for school readiness and creating summer learning opportunities.

The work of this group is just one of the partnerships that the school district has with the community. It will take this “whole village” of Marshalltown to increase the literacy opportunities and growth of our young people.” – Bea Niblock

Oath of Office

New board member Mike Miller took the oath of office, given by Board President Bea Niblock. Miller was appointed to the board to fill a vacancy.

Recognitions

Graphic Design project

MHS Art Instructor Kirk Niehouse talked about a recent graphic design project with two students, Dakota Sinclair (above left) and Michael Snyder (above right). Sinclair designed a bookmark and Snyder designed the banner with the theme “Is it Good for Kids?” as part of a project requested of Niehouse by Board President Bea Niblock. The banner is on display in the board room and the bookmarks were distributed to the schools.

Marching Band trip

MHS Director of Instrumental Music Bret Lee, Associate Director Brett Umthun and student Nate Harris, the senior drum major, presented about the MHS marching band trip to Arizona and the Fiesta Bowl parade, which was held over the holiday break.

“It’s something we’ll definitely remember for the rest of our lives,” Harris said.

Mr. Lee said the MHS students represented the state, school and band program with excellence.

MHS music department teachers Brett Umthun, left, and Bret Lee, right, join student Nate Harris, center, reporting on the recent marching band Fiesta Bowl trip to Arizona.

Presenting the Fisher Elementary School attendance center plan was, from left, Mary Pepper, Vicki Vopava, Jennifer August, Courtney Albee, Marcie Sienknecht and Myriam Montiel-Arrelano

Fisher Elementary Attendance Center plan

Fisher Principal Vicki Vopava and staff members Jennifer August, Courtney Albee, Mary Pepper, Marcie Sienknecht and Myriam Montiel-Arrelano presented the annual attendance center plan from Fisher.

The presentation talked about Sheltered Instruction Observational Protocol (SIOP) , the Comprehensive Literacy Model and professional learning surrounding these two. Mrs. Vopava said SIOP supports all students at Fisher.

The staff talked about directing instruction to students of different language levels in the same classroom.

Family Engagement Plan

Director of Equity and Learning Supports Matt Tullis shared this plan that is a result of an increased effort to get parents engaged in the work of the district. Portions of the plan come from ideas from a series of parent rallies held last year with a wide variety of parents who have given valuable input. The goal is not only to get staff more involved but also to build parent leaders in the district.

“We understand the importance of partnering with our families,” Tullis said.

The plan also calls for welcome centers/resource centers at Anson Elementary and Hoglan Elementary to start out.

There are several other aspects of the plan including looking at communication with families, transportation challenges, ESL classes for parents and professional development for staff. Tullis said this engagement work is ongoing.

Safe Schools Update

Mr. Tullis, Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade, Buildings and Grounds Director Rick Simpson and Architect Dave Schulze gave an update on projects in regards to safety including safety and security vestibule work at Hoglan, Franklin, Woodbury and the Marshalltown Learning Academy, which have been behind schedule.

Dr. Wade and Mr. Tullis talked about ALICE training for staff, which will be on Jan. 29 during a staff in-service day. ALICE stands for Alert, Lockdown, Inform, Counter and Evacuate on dealing with a threatening intruder.

Instructional Support Levy

The board approved the resolution to continue the participation in the Instructional Support Levy Program for another five years.More information on this program is in President Niblock’s report below.

Bid Recommendations for Chromebooks

The board approved the purchase of 195 Dell Chromebooks from Hypertec Direct of Scottdale, Arizona for $43,485 as presented by Technology Director Jeff Weinberg. They will be issued to teachers throughout the district, since there is a need for staff to be able to have interactive instruction with students in the district who have Chromebooks.

Board Room Audio Visual

Mr. Schulze and Mr. Simpson presented the revised recommendation on this project after value adjustments for the board room audio and visual upgrades. The board did not approve the project of $64,855 from Tri-City Electric Company of Davenport, Iowa, with 5 votes against the project and 2 for it.

MCSD Equity Project at Woodbury Elementary

Mr. Schulze and Mr. Simpson presented the Woodbury project as substantially complete. The project upgrades included restroom remodeling, stage removal, food service serving kitchen development, delivery loading dock installation and other related equity upgrades to the facility. The board approved the project as substantially complete.

For personnel items, click here.

Board Policies

New Board Policy – 504.33 – Life Threatening Allergies

MHS nurse Renee Mathews and Rogers Elementary nurse Stacey Tool-Crawford nurse presented a new policy titled Life Threatening Allergies.

There are 51 students in the district with life threatening allergies. The nurses want a standardized policy in place throughout the district. The board will bring this policy back as a first reading. Click here to view the proposed policy.

905.1 – Community Use of School Facilities – Adopted as first reading, waived second reading.

905.1-R2 – Fees for Use of School Facilities – Approved as amended, waived second reading.

905.1-R3 – Regulations Concerning the Use of School Facilities – Approved as amended, waived second reading.

201.8 – Vacancies – Policy updated with new statute to have opportunity for election. Approved as amended, waived second reading.

The next regular meeting of the board is planned for Feb. 1 in district offices.

From Board President Bea Nibl0ck

“At Monday’s board meeting, the board voted to continue the district’s participation in the Instructional Support Levy (ISL) program for the next five years. Nearly all school districts in the state have an ISL. This levy will generate approximately $2 million annually to increase the spending authority of the General Fund.

The General Fund is the primary fund that supports the teaching and learning for our students. The district could not continue to offer the current level of programming for students without this additional spending authority.

The ISL will allow the district to continue to offer a comprehensive program to all students.” – Bea Niblock

Mike Miller

Board selects Mike Miller as new member 

The MCSD Board of Education selected Mike Miller to join as the newest board member. Miller will serve until fall 2017, which is the remaining term left after the recent resignation of Jennifer Wilson.

Miller, a Marshalltown native, is President and CEO of RACOM in Marshalltown.

Miller told the board he was honored by their selection Tuesday. The board conducted interviews with six candidates over the course of two nights and made a decision on Tuesday.

Thanks to all the candidates who gave of their time to this process.

From Board President Bea Niblock

“After two evenings of interviews, the board of directors is once again complete. Thank you to the board members for their time commitment and diligence in working the process.

The board was fortunate in being able to interview 6 candidates from the community. The recent interest is unprecedented in past year’s board elections. It is a great thing that so many people are interested in what is happening in this district.

The process of open interviews made the process transparent to all. And with the first ballot, Mike Miller was selected to serve the remaining time of the vacant position. He will be seated at the January 18^th meeting. Congratulations to Mike!” – Bea Niblock

Jan. 4, 2016 meeting

MHS Health Careers Club trip

Marshalltown High School Dean of Students Dan Terrones talks to the school board about a Health Careers Club tip to San Antonio, Texas slated for February. Also presenting as part of the group were students, from left, Carina Magana, Samantha Lammert and Norma Ibarra.

The Marshalltown High School Health Careers Club, led by Dean of Students Dan Terrones, was approved for an out-of-state trip by the school board.

The club’s leadership team of students will travel to San Antonio, Texas in February where they will visit a health careers high school, learn more about care for veterans and visit some tourist sites.

“It will be a great learning experience for the kids,” Terrones said.

Nine students and two adult chaperones will be on the trip, which is paid for by Central Iowa Healthcare, a partner of the club. The group will travel by van to San Antonio. In accordance with policy, the board must approve all school-sponspored out of state trips.

Board room audio/visual updates

The board received an update on the board room audio and visual update project. Buildings and Grounds Director Rick Simpson and Architect Dave Schulze brought forth some cost-saving measures for the project. This was an information item only with the item expected to come back to the board for possible action at the Jan. 18 meeting.

The Jan. 4 board meeting was abbreviated in order to start candidate interviews for the school board vacancy.

For personnel items, click here.

Extended Learning Program teacher Deb Christenson talks to the school board about the Hour of Code at the Dec. 21 meeting. Also presenting to the board were Franklin fourth grade students Adrian Juarez, left, and Ava Lucas.

Recognitions

Extended Learning Program Teacher Deb Christenson and Franklin Elementary School fourth graders Adrian Juarez and Ava Lucas presented on the Hour of Code. Elementary students throughout the district took part in the computer coding earlier this month. Adrian and Ava conducted a demonstration for the board on coding.

For Personnel items, click here

Iowa School Report Card

Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade talked about the Iowa School Report Card, which was called for by the 2013 Legislature.

The card was released by the Iowa Department of Education last week via a website (click here for website). He went over the format of the site and how much of the information can be accessed.

“There’s a lot of data on the report cards,” Dr. Wade said.

Dr. Wade said the next step is to figure out how to use this information for the continuous improvement throughout the district.

Super News

Dr. Wade gave his regular overview of his activities, which included dozens of meetings in the schools and community.

Urban Education Network and Iowa Association of School Boards Annual Conference

Dr. Wade, board member Sean Heitmann, and Board President Bea Niblock spoke about their experience at the conference, which was held in November.

Instructional Support Levy

Director of Business Operations Brian Bartz said the Instructional Support Levy has been approved every year. This resolution is proposed for five years.This generates over $2 million a year to be used for general fund purpose. A public hearing on this levy is planned for the Jan. 18 meeting. The board approved the resolution to support the Instructional Support Levy and move forward. 

Board Room Audio and Visual

Director of Buildings and Grounds Rick Simpson and Architect Dave Schulze presented on this topic to make visual and sound improvements in the board room. Two companies submitted proposals for the project. The recommended action from the architect was a total contract award of $65,250 to Tri-City Electric Company of Davenport, Iowa.

The motion for approval died for lack of a second from the board. Buildings personnel were asked to make some adjustments on the cost to bring it down. There was also a concern from some board members that only four board members were in attendance Monday and they haven’t seen a recent facilities plan. There is a plan to have a special board work session to learn more about the facilities plan.

Polices 

905.1 – Community Use of School Facilities – Last two paragraphs on ICN need to be deleted, will be brought back.

905.1-R1 – Application for Use and Approval – Marked as reviewed.

905.1-R2 – Fees for Use of School Facilities – Increases in hourly rate schedule, will be brought back to board.

905.1-R3 – Regulations for Use of School Facilities – Proposed additional items, to come back.

905.1 –R4 – ICN Room Use Regulations – Policy eliminated by board. (no longer in use in district)

201.8 – Vacancies – Iowa Code language added to policy, to be brought back.

From Board President Bea Niblock

“We find ourselves a day away from winter break – a well-deserved respite from the work that each of you do each day. Travel safely on your journeys and come back to us rested and ready to tackle the challenges and joys that each day brings.

May each of you find the peace and tranquility that this season offers. Wishing all of you a joyous holiday and the most memorable of new years.” – Bea Niblock

Miller Middle School Counselor Angie Radcliffe speaks to the board on Dec. 7 about why she nominated Marshalltown High School Counselor Lydia Arevalo, left, for the Iowa High School Counselor of the Year Award.

Recognition

Marshalltown High School Counselor Lydia Arevalo was recognized by the board for her Iowa High School Counselor of the Year award from the Iowa School Counselor Association. Arevalo was nominated for the award by Miller Middle School Counselor Angie Radcliffe, who was also in attendance at the meeting.

“She goes above and beyond for (students) a lot ,” Radcliffe said of Arevalo.

For Personnel items, click here.

Included in the personnel items was the retirement of Becky Judge as attendance secretary. She has been with the district for 11 years

“We will miss what she’s done for the students of our district,” said Director of Human Resources Lisa Koester.

Rogers Elementary School Attendance Center Plan

Dr. Mick Jurgensen presented the annual attendance center plan from Rogers Elementary School to the board. 

Principal Dr. Mick Jurgensen presented his annual report on Rogers Elementary School to the board. The two main goals at the school include increasing reading and math achievement. The school is also heavily involved in Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP)

“A culture of SIOP definitely does exist at Rogers,” Jurgensen said.

While the grant for Rogers University (summer program) has ended, the school and other community partners are looking at ways to continue the successful program into year 6.

Jurgensen described the Rogers staff as unified, dedicated and hard-working. “We are completing our 137^th year at Rogers with optimism and energy,” he said.

Teacher Leadership and Compensation

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky shared the new website for TLC, which is in progress. It will be linked from the Marshalltown Schools website.

The goal of TLC is to increase student achievement by strengthening instruction and retaining highly-qualified teachers.

Pecinovsky said the district would not be as far as we are in professional learning without TLC.

Vision Marshalltown

Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade talked about this community group, which has formed to take Marshalltown to the next level in many ways. The overriding theme of the group is “Marshalltown is primed for growth, ready to emerge and position for success.”

The Vision Statement of the group includes…

By the year 2020, Marshalltown will:

1. Showcase exceptional educational opportunities.
2. Offer a wide array of housing options and opportunities for families to reinvest in neighborhoods.
3. Have and convey a culture of pride and respect, with a reputation as a great community in which to live, work and play.

The school board members voiced their support for this Vision Marshalltown group, which also includes School Board President Bea Niblock.

Urban Education Network and Iowa Association of School Board convention report

The board shared reports of these meetings held last month. The new board members said much was learned at the convention.

Finance- Budget Cycle

Director of Business Operations Brian Bartz said the budget process is continuous. The certified budget is due April 15, 2016. He said the tentative approval date of the budget will be at the April 4, 2016 meeting.

Roundhouse Fundraising

Dr. Wade said the Design Advisory Committee met last week and talked about the Roundhouse Phase 2. Phase 1 of the Roundhouse is done and Phase 2 includes the building of an auxiliary gym and wrestling room.

Fundraising is ongoing for Phase 2.  The committee remains fully committed to moving ahead with Phase 2.

Fundraising co-chair Gary Schaudt gave the board an update and said they have raised $2.65 million of the $3.85 million for Phase 2

“We are about 70 percent to goal, we are continuing to fundraise,” Schaudt said.

Policies

504.14-E-3 – Harassment –Students (Student Handbook Provisions)- Changes accepted, waived second reading

409.3-E1- Licensed Employee Family and Medical Notice to Employees- Marked as reviewed

505.7 – Fee Waivers- Marked as reviewed

904.2 – Sales Promotion Prohibited- Marked as reviewed

905.1 – Community Use of School Facilities – Remove ICN paragaphs (last two paragraphs) – Policy will come back to the board

Board resignation

President Bea Niblock announced the resignation of board member Jennifer Wilson, effective immediately.

District Attorney Rex Ryden is in talks with the Secretary of State’s office to see how the district needs to proceed on filling this vacancy. Legislation that was passed this past year has changed this process.

Wilson served for six years on the school board and had two years remaining on her term second four-year term.

Next meeting

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Dec. 21 in district offices.

From Board President Bea Niblock

“At each board meeting a quote is presented for those in attendance to think about. Monday’s quote was from Carl Rogers. “The only person who is educated is the one who has learned how to learn and change.”

The Marshalltown Community School District board of directors is definitely learning. Six directors attended the Iowa Association of School Boards convention in Des Moines in mid-November. Three began sharing their learning with everyone at Monday’s meeting. Three more will share their learning at the next meeting.

It’s one thing to learn new information, but it’s even better when you can share that new learning with others. A wealth of knowledge is coming back to this district to make the Marshalltown district an even better place for staff and students.” – Bea Niblock

Miller Middle School Student Council members talked to the School Board during the Nov. 16, 2015 meeting. Addressing the board, from left, were, Kaylee Foth, Kaci Uhde, Carson Beals, Hunter Youngblood, Mackenzy Scales and Donovan Gavagan.

Recognitions
Miller Middle School Student Council members updated the board on many of their activities. The group talked about their community service, their roles on the council, events they have hosted and leadership skills they are learning. The group made the transition from a club to a council, which is now student-led.

Students speaking on behalf of the council at the meeting were Kaylee Foth, Kaci Uhde, Carson Beals, Hunter Youngblood, Mackenzy Scales and Donovan Gavagan.

Central Office Management Responsibilities
Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade gave an overview of the responsibilities of Central Office management staff. He said many of these duties revolve around strategies of the Strategic Action Plan.

Many of the broad duties of Central Office management staff can be found here.

Super News
Dr. Wade gave an overview of his work the past two weeks to move the district forward. This work included visiting all of the schools, meeting with business leaders, meeting with other superintendents and much more. He also talked at length about the Professional Learning Day held on Nov. 13, which received positive feedback from staff. This Super News will be a monthly agenda item during board meetings moving forward.

Application to School Budget Review Committee
Director of Business Operations Brian Bartz said this is an application for 2015 Modified Supplemental Funding for Open Enrollment Out and Limited English Proficiency Instruction Beyond Five years.

The total Modified Supplemental funding is $1,434, 267. The request was approved by the board.

Application to School Budget Review Committee
This if for Special Education Administration Costs associated with the River Hills Consortium Program for 2016-17.

The application is for $2,810.18. The board approved the application.

Hoglan Elementary School 2015 Upgrades
Director of Buildings and Grounds Rick Simpson and District Architect Dave Schulze of TSP presented to the board.

This project at Hoglan involved storm water control and the addition of air conditioning. The project is now substantially complete and was led by general contractor Hay Construction of Marshalltown.

The board approved the project as substantially complete. 

Board Room Audio and Video
Mr. Simpson and Mr. Schulze talked about this item. This proposed project is in the works to allow for better audio and visual equipment to be in place in the board room, especially during board meetings. This equipment would enhance the ability to hear the meetings for guests and the people watching the broadcast and allow for better interaction between the board and guests.

They talked about the set up in the board room, the equipment and options for the board. The scheduled receipt of proposal date is Dec. 14, with possible installation over the holiday break.

The board approved the scope of work, budget, and implementation schedule for the audio/visual upgrades to the board room and will await proposals.

Board Policies

409.3-R2 – Licensed Employee Family and Medical Leave- No changes- marked as reviewed.

504.14-R – Harassment- Student (Investigation Procedures) – Accepted policy as amended, waived second reading.

802.7-R – Energy Conservation Guidelines – Accepted policy as amended, waived second reading.

409.3R1 – Licensed Employee Family and Medical Leave Regulations – No changes, marked as reviewed.

504.14E3 – Harassment- Students (Student Handbook Provision) – Changes made, will be brought back before board. 

Personnel
For personnel items, click here.

The personnel items included the early retirement of Director of Human Resources Lisa Koester, effective on May 31, 2015.

“I’ve loved every minute of it,” Koester said of her career with Marshalltown Schools.

Board President Bea Niblock thanked Mrs. Koester for her service.

Committee reports
The board reported on committee meetings they have been involved in recently including the Equity Committee, School Improvement Advisory Committee, Roundhouse Art Committee and Audit Committee.

Work Session
The board then went into an open work session to talk about the Superintendent evaluation process.

From Board President Bea Niblock
“American Education Week is November 16-20. It is the 94^th annual celebration of our outstanding public schools. The theme is “Great Public Schools: A Public Right and Our Responsibility.” Having been in education for 41 years, I believe that there is nothing greater than public schools.

The school board offers a tremendous thank you to teachers, support staff and administrators for the diligent work that they do each and every day to provide the best possible education for the youth of our community. Your drive and your dedication to that purpose are most appreciated. Please understand that the Board of Education supports your work and thanks you for your efforts.” – Bea Niblock

Marshalltown High School Student Resource Specialist Scott Johannes spoke to the board along with MHS students who attended a recent Latino Youth Summit. Pictured are, front row, from left, Jenny Chavarria, Martha Ortiz, Johannes, Irene Castellanos and Luis Ledesma. Back row standing is Carlos Dorado.

Recognitions

Scott Johannes, Student Resource Specialist at Marshalltown High School brought students who took part in the Latino Youth Summit at the University of Iowa. Speaking at the meeting were Irene Castellanos, Jenny Chavarria, Carlos Dorado, Luis Ledesma and Martha Ortiz.

They talked about goals such as helping out in the community, learning more about colleges and careers and other activities they have planned. The group is tentatively named the MHS 4H Club and there is a focus on building leadership.

Lenihan Intermediate School Attendance Center Plan

Lenihan Intermediate School Principal Kyle Young presented the annual Attendance Center Plan from Lenihan to the board. He said they are focused on four main terms in their work at the school, which are: Connected, Accountable, Tolerant and Safe. (CATS).

“A lot of what we do is centered around these four terms,” Young said.

Young also shared 2014-15 Iowa Assessment scores and goals in literacy and math. He also spoke on the Lenihan Action Plan to boost student achievement.

Student Enrollment Count

Director of Human Resources Lisa Koester presented the certified enrollment figures for the 2015-16 school year. The report indicates there are 5,322 students in the district, which is down 65 students from the previous year. Koester said when looking at recent enrollment numbers, the district’s enrollment numbers are considered steady by the state.

There was also a lengthy discussion on open enrollment numbers, especially the open enrollment out figure.

To see more enrollment figures shared at the meeting, click here.

Sample Individualized Education Plan

Director of Special Services Matt Cretsinger presented a sample Individualized Education Plan to the board to help them become more familiar with the work of teachers in special education. Each special education student in the district has an IEP to guide the district in providing services to meet their needs.

Strategic Action Plan

Superintendent Dr. Marvin Wade gave an overview of the Strategic Action Plan. To view the plan, click here.

The plan process began with community meetings and other meetings to narrow the focus of the plan. The plan was approved in March 2012 by the board. The plan’s one main goal is to increase student achievement. Dr. Wade talked about the objectives under the goal and some of the indicators under these objectives.

The plan was originally set up to run through June 2015, but this past year it was extended one more year. The extension was due to state indicators to be released in the next year and the new state assessment to come on board next year.

Board Policies

310.4 – MCSD Organizational Chart – The policy was put on hold. At a future board meeting, the Central Office Administrators roles and responsibilities will be presented.

802.7-R- Energy Conservation Guidelines – Changes made on policy, more may need to be made, will be brought back.

504-14-R – Harassment – Student (Investigation Procedures) – Changes made, will come back at next meeting for first reading.

409.3R2 – Licensed Employee Family and Medical Leave – Definitions.  – Marked as reviewed

504-32-R – Special Health Services for Students- Administrative Rules – Changes made, to be brought back

Personnel items

For Personnel Items approved at the meeting, click here.

Communications

Andrew Potter, Communications Director, said the MHS girls will compete at the state swim meet this weekend at the Marshalltown YMCA-YWCA. Included in the state-qualifying group is Raechel Hannam who broke a school record in the 100 breaststroke last weekend in Johnston. Other state qualifiers include Emily Vest, Shakira Herrera, Zoe Beals, Taylor Hrabak and Lena Sporing.

Also, the MHS drama department will perform the fall play “Almost, Maine” this Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in the MHS/Community Auditorium.

From Board President Bea Niblock

At the end of each meeting we ask the question, “What have we done tonight to enrich the education of our students?”

Included in board member comments were a variety of things. Students who attended the Latino Youth Summit at the University of Iowa in October made a short presentation of the knowledge that they brought back to the district and how they were translating that into community service and exploration of careers. We hope that anyone who attends a training brings information back to our district that enriches what we do.

Also mentioned was the learning that occurs when volunteers work in our buildings – learning to the students and to the volunteers alike. A small group of Emerson/Fisher employees are reading with students at Lenihan Intermediate School. It’s a win-win situation with both students and volunteers being enriched. Volunteers in the buildings help spread the word into the community of the great learning that is going on each day.

What story can you share with the board about how our students’ lives are being enriched? – Bea Niblock