The Board Report

Pictured is an example of the type of Dell Chromebook that will be offered to students as an individual device at Marshalltown High School this fall.

Next wave of Digital Conversion

Jeff Weinberg, Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, Kyle Young, Pam Brewer-Michael and Jacy Large presented to the board a progress report on the Digital Conversion. The next wave in the Digital Conversion will see the district purchase 1,190 Dell Chromebooks as part of a 1:1 effort (individual student devices) at Marshalltown High School.

“Chromebooks have really hit their stride in the educational market,” Weinberg said.

The estimated cost per unit is $290. Two funding streams to support this are textbook adoptions funds and computer replacement funds. Young said teachers have thanked him at Lenihan Intermediate School, saying the Chromebooks are such an integral part of their classroom.

“They are pretty widely used,” Young said.

This was a non-action item on the agenda as they will now go out to bid.

Lenihan Intermediate School teacher Paul Sibbel talked to the board about the use of iPads in music instruction.

Instrumental Music iPad Integration Project

Paul Sibbel, Lenihan instrumental music instructor, gave a demonstration on the use of iPads in instruction, especially as a tool for evaluating his students. The board approved the bid for 48 Apple iPad Air2 64GB from Apple Inc. for $27,592. A Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation grant will pay 50 percent of the cost and the district will pay the other 50 percent of the cost.

Rogers Elementary Attendance Center Plan

Dr. Mick Jurgensen presented the annual attendance center plan for Rogers Elementary School. The school recently completed an IPI assessment on student engagement that showed Rogers met or exceeded numbers that are in line with effective schools.

“We are doing pretty well,” Jurgensen said.

Jurgensen presented results of this year’s Iowa Assessment in reading and math. Jurgensen said he was pleased with the work staff has done on student attendance rates. They have reduced the percentage of chronically absent students each year for the past five years at the school. The summer learning program Rogers University will enter the fifth year of a five-year grant this summer. Jurgensen said they are looking into other sources of funding to keep the program going in future years.

Teacher Leadership and Compensation System

Pecinovsky presented the 53 teacher leadership positions for this fall as part of the TLC system. The board approved the list. To view the list, click here.

School Handbooks for 2015-16

Lisa Koester presented handbooks for the elementary schools, Lenihan Intermediate School and Marshalltown High School to the board of approval for the 2015-16 school year. Also presenting for the elementary were Anel Garza from Woodbury, Mick Jurgensen from Rogers and Ronnie Manis from Anson.

Kyle Young and Liz Jurgensen presented with Mrs. Koester on the Lenihan handbook. Some minor changes were requested by the board and the handbooks for the elementary schools and Lenihan were approved.

Ken Hayes from MHS assisted with the high school handbook presentation. Hayes said they are not going to print the high school handbook for all students for next school year, but they will be put on the website and paper copies will be available at the high school office and library upon request. The MHS handbook was approved with minor changes by the board.

Eric Goslinga from Marshalltown Learning Academy presented the handbook for MLA, which is new to the school. Mr. Goslinga will come back to the board on May 18 to talk more about MLA. The board approved the handbook, minus the section of the dress code, which will come back to the board at a later date for approval.

Scholarships

The board approved the creation of the Johnson-Engel Scholarship Endowment in Engineering. This scholarship will be for MHS students heading to Iowa State University and was created by MHS graduates Dale and Janice Johnson.

The board also approved the contributed funds from anonymous MHS graduates who want to create a STEM camp for elementary students to attend.

Policies

905.9- Smoking in the School District facilities-  Changed to say use of tobacco prohibited on all school property Change title to “Smoking and Tobacco Use On School District Facilities” Will be brought back to board for approval.

705.9 – Death of a Student, Staff Member or Board Director (new policy)  – Strike last three sentences and be brought back to board.

For personnel items, click here.

From Board President Kay Beach

“For me, the highlight of tonight’s meeting was watching the faces of administrators from Lenihan, Miller and MHS as they described the excitement among their teachers over the impact of the 1:1 availability of computers in their classrooms.  Those faces were glowing with pleasure as they talked about improved student engagement in learning and the analytical/critical thinking skills they see growing in our young citizens of tomorrow.  Just imagine the possible positive impact of a generation of young leaders capable of creating new solutions to society’s oldest problems–who have truly been “empowered for citizenship in a changing world.” – Kay Beach

The next regular meeting of the board is at 5 p.m. on May 18

Teacher Librarians, from left, Sue Inhelder (MHS), Erin Faas (Rogers) and Beth Steffa (Anson) were recognized by the board for receiving Outstanding School Library Program awards from the Iowa Association of School Librarians.

Teacher librarians recognized

Three teacher librarians in the district were recognized by the school board for receiving Outstanding School Library Program awards from the Iowa Association of School Librarians. The librarians included Sue Inhelder of MHS, Erin Faas of Rogers and Beth Steffa of Anson.

Strategic Action Plan

Dr. Marvin Wade gave an update on the Strategic Action Plan. He said there are legitimate reasons to extend the plan another year, which will be through the 2015-16 school year. The two main reasons include: 2015-2016 is the last year of Iowa Assessments and all nine measures of the Department of Education’s School/District Rankings will go into effect during fall of 2016 (both will have significant influence on the Strategic Action Plan). This was an information item only at the meeting and not up for board approval. For additional details on the plan, click here.

Bus purchases

Transportation Director Don Meyer presented bus bids to the board, which were approved as part of the bus replacement schedule. The district purchased two 77-passenger buses and one 36-passenger bus from Hoglund Bus Company for $243,968 and one 84-passenger bus from School Bus Sales for $91,510. The total amount for all four buses is $335,478, which will be paid for by Physical Plant and Equipment Levy (PPEL) funds.

Board policies

711.1R – Student Eligibility of Bus Service – Brought to board (regulations don’t need formal approval)

905.2 – Parent Teacher Organization Building Use – No changes, marked reviewed.

905.4- Gratuities to Personnel – Marked as reviewed

905.5 – Supervision by School Personnel – Marked reviewed

905.6 – Loan of School Equipment– Marked reviewed

905.7 – Motorized Vehicles on School Property – Marked reviewed

905.9 – Smoking in School District Facilities – Will be brought back to board

For personnel items, click here

Marshalltown High School students Chandler Fisher and Megan Emerson perform their award-winning duo interpretation piece to the board on April 6. The pair will compete at the national speech and debate contest in Dallas, Texas in June.

Recognition

Marshalltown High School students Chandler Fisher and Megan Emerson performed their award-winning duo interpretation performance that they will take to Dallas, Texas for the National Speech and Debate Tournament in June. It received big applause from the board and those in the crowd. For video of the performance taken by McTV, click here.

Personnel

Jacque Wyant was approved as the next principal of Marshalltown High School and will start July 1. Click here for other personnel items approved during the meeting.

Financial audit report for fiscal year 2014

Jason Doonan from Nolte, Cornman & Johnson delivered the audit. General fund revenues increased by $2.6 million to $57.82 million in fiscal year 2014. General fund expenditures increased $1.28 million to $57.17 million.

Hoglan presentation

Hoglan Principal Amy Williams and school leadership team members Deb Moore, Lisa Frauenholtz and Lora Kester provided the yearly attendance center plan of the school. The elementary school has an enrollment of 381 students, with 45 percent of those being English Language Learners. The group covered a wide range of topics including Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol (SIOP), Language Literacy Framework, Common Unit Design, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support, Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), student recognitions and parental involvement.

Continuous Learning Calendar Committee members

Dr. Marvin Wade spoke on the Continuous Learning Calendar Committee, which will start the process at looking at options to recommend to the board in the future. The committee includes Aimee Deimerly, Bianca Greazel, Blanco Guidino, Gretchen Hageman, Karina Hernandez, Lisa Neuan, Victor Cisneros, Amy Pieper, Arlene McAtee, David Barajas, Jenny Fisher, Karn Gregoire, Kelli Thurston, Kendall Shomo, Lynn Olberding, Randy Wetmore, Valerie King, Jacy Large, John Johnson, Ken Hayes, Kendall Derby, Lisa Koester, Mick Jurgensen, Susan Pecinovksy, Brad Weidenaar Sarah Wherry, Kate Troskey and Sue Cahill. The committee was approved by the board.

2014 graduation /dropout rate

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky presented the latest graduation and dropout rates for the district, and said both reflected good news. The graduation rate in 2014 was at 87.06 percent (4-year-cohort), which is the highest it’s been in the last three years. The dropout rate also reflected good news as it was down.

Budget guarantee

Kevin Posekany said this gives the district authority to spend 1 percent more in the coming year in the case that State Supplemental Aid ends at zero percent. Posekany said if the state does approve aid increase this budget guarantee is not needed. The budget guarantee resolution was approved by the board.

Budget adoption for 2015-16

The board approved the 2015-16 district budget with a levy rate of $18.43, which reflects a 28-cent increase. When the state takes action on State Supplemental Aid, the tax asking is expected to come down, and likely will be on track with the current levy rate of $18.15, Posekany said.

MHS administration addition

A public hearing was held for plans, scope of work, schedule and anticipated budget For the MHS administration additions as well as security/vestibule upgrades at at Hoglan, Franklin, Woodbury and Marshalltown Learning Academy. Projected cost is $1 million for MHS west addition and additional $740,000 worth of alternate work. The board approved the plans, scope of work, schedule and anticipated budget and the public bid process will now proceed. Bids are to be received on May 14 with possible bid award at the May 18 board meeting.

Asbestos abatement

An asbestos abatement bid for 317 Columbus Drive (old Central Office building) was approved as the district prepares for the building to be demolished. The low bid from REW Services Corporation of Ankeny of $99,548 was approved.

Policies

803.1- Disposition of Obsolete Equipment – Approved as amended, waive second reading

904.4 – Money Raising Activities in the Schools – Approved as amended, waive second reading.

905.1 – Community Use of School Facilities– This policy will be amended with updates to facilities. Included in working with this policy will be staff associated with athletics, fine arts and other groups of people.

The next regular board meeting will be April 20.

From Board President Kay Beach

Passing a budget for the 2015-16 school year was especially painful for me tonight because it had to be done, and we are still in the dark as to how much (if any) supplemental state aid we will receive.  It appears that our legislators (and the governor) have forgotten that public schools are not income-producing entities; we have to rely on government to fund our efforts.  So, we (the school district) have to build a budget for a multi-million dollar institution based on  assumptions and hopes resting squarely on the property tax-payers of the district.  Please be assured that we are being very conservative as we plan the spending or OUR (yours…and mine, too!) resources. – Kay Beach.

Lisa Koester presents the 2015-16 school calendar for approval.

District Calendar for 2015-16

Lisa Koester presented the calendar option preferred by staff, with the first day of school being Aug. 25. The last scheduled day of school is May 27. The calendar has no built-in snow days and days missed would be tacked on to the end of the year.

To view the calendar click here.

The calendar was approved by the board, 4-1. Koester said there still could be some changes from the legislature on school start date, so this approved calendar is pending any action in Des Moines.

2015-16 certified budget preview

Kevin Posekany presented a non-action item on the 2015-16 budget, with a worksheet with budget scenarios depending on what State Supplemental Aid gets set by the legislature. The total tax rate proposed to publish is $18.53 per $1,000 valuation, which is a 38-cent increase. The levy is set at the high rate based on zero percent State Supplemental Aid and any move up from zero by the legislature would result in the levy coming down. “That probably is going to change,” Posekany said of the $18.53 rate. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for the April 6 board meeting.

Delegation for Advancement of History trip

MHS teacher Tim Johnson and student Ellen Podhajsky requested an out-of-state trip to Kansas City for March 27-28. The group will see a symphony, a jazz museum and go to the World War I Memorial. The trip was approved by the board. All out-of-state school trips must receive board approval.

National Forensic Tournament

Dr. Janelle Hawk requested permission for travel for the national speech qualifiers, June 14-19 in Dallas, Texas. MHS had Chandler Fisher and Megan Emerson qualify for the tournament. The group plans to do a lot of fundraising for the trip. This is the seventh consecutive year MHS has sent a national qualifier to the event. The trip was approved by the board.

Budget for dropout prevention

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky presented the Modified Supplemental Amount Application for Dropout Prevention for 2015-2016 for board approval. This year districts are asked to have these budgets board approved. The budget was approved by board.

Kenneth and Sherry Folks Scholarship Fund

Dr. Marvin Wade said this scholarship fund created by the Folks will be used to give $1,000 scholarships to MHS students. “It’s greatly appreciated that they created this scholarship,” Wade said.

Equity and Disability remodeling at Anson and Woodbury schools

This work includes some restroom remodeling, compliance projects and other remodeling at Anson and Woodbury elementary schools. The board approved the bid of $197,100 from Hay Construction for the Anson work and the bid of $728,000 from Brycon LLC for the Woodbury work. Both general contractors are based in Marshalltown.

Conflict mediation and resolution

MCSD staff Deb Holsapple, Kirk Brooks and Meredith Goldman as well as Sister Chris Feagan and Pastor Gregg Davison talked about the work being done in this community partnership that was formed last fall. The goal is to be proactive in conflicts with students and work to get those involved in incidents back into the classroom and set them up for success after working with them. Brooks said an October incident at MHS affected the school and the community and it spawned this work. “We’re hoping that we never have to use it,” Brooks said.

Policy

705.1 – Purchasing – Approved by board, waived second reading.

Personnel

For personnel items, click here.

From School Board President Kay Beach 

I’ve known for years that the teachers and staff in our schools care deeply about the welfare of all of our students, and tonight my heart was warmed to learn that a new school/community group has been formed to assist students who may be in conflict with another student or group of students.  Being a teenager isn’t easy, and sometimes the stresses lead to emotional confrontations—sometimes even violence.  This caring group of adults wants to help our teens learn to resolve their differences so that violence is not the option of choice.  Thanks to them….and to all the folks who work for the well-being of our youngsters. – Kay Beach

Recognitions

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

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

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

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

Anson Elementary Presentation

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

MHS Principal Search Process

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

Budget preparation for fiscal year 2015-16

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

Reading Recovery Training Facility Remodel

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

Board policies

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

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

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

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

903.7 – Parent-Teacher Organizations – Marked as reviewed.

904.1 – Public Performance by students – Marked as reviewed

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

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

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

For personnel items click here

Message From Board President Kay Beach

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

– Kay Beach

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

Student Recognition

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

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

MHS Speech team

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

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

Competency-Based Education

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

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

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

River Hills Consortium Special Education Administrative Costs

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

Policies

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

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

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

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

902.6 – Board Proceedings – Marked reviewed

903.2- Public Examination of School District Records – Marked reviewed

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

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

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

For personnel items, click here.

Message From Board President Kay Beach

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

– Kay Beach

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

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

Continuous Learning Calendar

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

Fisher Elementary School

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

Student Recognition

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

Attendance Center rankings

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

Strategy One Progress Report

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

Work truck purchase      

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

Buildings and Grounds projects

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

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

Band uniform fees

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

Policies

801.5 – Construction Contract Bidding– Approved

802.8 – Use of Contract Service – Approved

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

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

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

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

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

For personnel items click here.

Message from Board President Kay Beach:

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

– Kay Beach

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

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

Franklin Elementary Presentation

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

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

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

Marshalltown Community School District Foundation

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

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

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

Teacher Leadership and Compensation

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

River Hills Consortium

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

Instructional Support Levy

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

Interest based bargaining session

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

Miller Middle School Boys Locker Room Remodel

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

MHS steam boiler replacement

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

Policies

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

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

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

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

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

Personnel – Click here.
and here.

From Board Vice President Anne Paullus

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

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

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

– Anne Paullus

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

MHS graduate discusses internship in Nepal

Board approves property purchases, demolition near Rogers Elementary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

See the full presentation online.
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District purchases two maintenance vehicles

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

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

By Kay Beach, President

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

First Reading

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

Initial Review

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

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

Board elects new president, vice president

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By. Dr. Marvin Wade

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

First Reading

701.4 Governmental Accounting Practices and Regulations, approved as amended

Initial Review

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