The Board Report

Board tours MLA, learns about program

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr. Marvin Wade

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Initial Review

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

PERSONNEL – Click here.

Food Service unveils new interactive menus, mobile app

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

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

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

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

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

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

“I’m very proud of them,” he said.

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

By Sherm Welker, Board President

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

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

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

First Reading

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

Initial Review

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

Summer School programs planned across Marshalltown

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

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

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

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

Food Services prices set for 2014-2015

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Initial Review

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

PERSONNEL – Click here.

Donations accepted for Project Lead the Way

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Instructional Coaches

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

Curriculum/Professional Development Leaders

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Board moves forward with Miller locker room remodeling

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

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

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

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

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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

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

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

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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

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

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

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Online payment option to be implemented next school year

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

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

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

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

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

First Reading

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

Initial Review – Tabled until June 2 meeting.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.
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Envirothon students heading to Chicago

State Envirothon champions (L to R): Sean Finn, Abby Snyder, Adam Willman, Dayana Carrera, Chandler Fisher.

Marshalltown High School’s state championship Envirothon team will compete in the 2014 Stewardship Challenge held Aug. 4-7 at Loyola University in Chicago.

This year’s national Envirothon was cancelled due to a change in sponsorship, so the contest in Chicago is a chance for Midwest teams to still compete on a regional/national level.

Susan Fritzell, MHS Extended Learning Program teacher and Envirothon sponsor, was present at the Board meeting along with four of the five team members: Chandler Fisher, Abby Snyder, Adam Willman and Sean Finn (Dayana Carrera was unable to attend).

“They’re really smart and really capable, but they also work really hard,” Fritzell said.

Two of the teammates, Snyder and Willman, will be unable to attend due to their designation as World Food Prize Interns. Snyder will be conducting research in Nepal and Willman will be in Turkey.

Read more about the state Envirothon championship here.
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Digital Conversion bringing Chromebooks to Lenihan, Miller

All students at Lenihan Intermediate and Miller Middle schools next year will have Acer C720 Chromebooks beginning in the fall. The rollout of devices is the next phase of the District’s Digital Conversion initiative started this year.

In January of this year sets of Samsung Chromebooks were issued to all District third and fourth grade and 7-12 science classrooms. Initial plans for next year’s rollout included devices in sixth grade, but skipped fifth grade. The new plan allows for students already using Chromebooks to continue with them next year.

“We want the devices to follow the students,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement.

Acer Chromebooks have a faster process which equates to a longer battery life, said Jeff Weinberg, director of information technology. They also have a more solid build quality.

The new Chromebooks will be student issued, meaning students will carry a Chromebook with them during the day instead of utilizing a classroom set. Devices will remain at school for next year while the District continues exploring ways to provide anytime, anywhere access for students and enable 24/7 learning.

The cost of next year’s Chromebook rollout is approximately $442,705, which will be covered through textbook adoption funds and computer replacement funds.
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Board reviews Iowa Assessments

The Board reviewed Iowa Assessments results Monday night and discussed how to increase student achievement.

Results were reported according to District Strategic Action Plan indicators, which look at increasing percent proficient in grades 4, 8, and 11 for math and reading and increasing students scoring advanced in the same grades and subjects. The 2013-2014 results showed growth in three of six areas, but only 8th grade reading scores increased enough to meet SAP projections.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, said one area of growth not seen in the SAP indicators is Lenihan, where students met all but one target this year.

“The things we’re doing in the elementary buildings are gaining some momentum,” she said.

Among advanced students the District met four of six SAP indicators, increasing the percent of students scoring advanced for math and reading in both fourth and eighth grades.

Once challenge the District faces is the alignment of test items to the Iowa Core Curriculum. Less than 40 percent of math and 50 percent of reading test items align to the Iowa Core, which all schools in Iowa are required to implement beginning next school year.

“It’s a challenge,” Pecinovsky said.

She told the Board the next step is to review the assessments results at the building level, conducting item analysis and determining next steps for the District. The Board asked to review data for each building, as well as their attendance center plans and how they’ll work to increase student achievement.
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Three buses purchased from Hoglund

Marshalltown Schools will purchase three new buses from Hoglund Bus Company.

The total cost is $236,514 to purchase a 35-passenger, a 65-passenger, and a 71-passenger bus. The price is after a $3,000 reduction for trading in a bus.
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Contract settlement reached with B&G, transportation mechanics

The Board approved a settlement with union representing buildings and grounds employees and transportation mechanics.

The settlement is a 3.67 percent total package increase, with a 2 percent across-the-board wage scale increase and an increase in insurance.
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Bid approved for Roundhouse track asbestos abatement

REW Services Corporation of Ankeny will complete the asbestos abatement at the MHS Roundhouse interior track.

The company had the low bid of $153,454. Removing the track is part of the overall Roundhouse project and should be completed during the month of June.
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Security vestibule project sent to bid

The Board will upgrade the entrances to four schools this summer, installing security vestibules similar to systems used at Anson and Fisher elementary schools.

Franklin Elementary, Woodbury Elementary, Hoglan Elementary and Marshalltown Learning Academy will each receive upgrades to their main entrances. The anticipated cost for the project is $180,000 and is scheduled for completion at the start of the 2014-2015 school year.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Monday’s Board of Education meeting included a comparison of Iowa Assessment results to performance targets of our Strategic Action Plan. Some scores prompted celebration, and others elicited frustration or anger, but no score was received without some form of emotional reaction. I hope others recognize these responses as an expression of strong concern for the academic success of every student in Marshalltown Schools. Each board member knows the limitations of the Iowa Assessment, yet is well aware that scores on this assessment have been identified as important indicators of our progress as a district: if we are doing the right things then scores should go up (some did); if scores are not going up (some did not), we must question the validity of the practices we have in place. As most of you know, these conversations are already occurring in small and large group settings throughout Marshalltown Schools. Dedicated teachers are working together to analyze Iowa Assessment results and to adjust our curriculum where necessary – while keeping in mind the Iowa Core must be implemented K-12 next year. The Board and I recognize the employees of Marshalltown Schools work tirelessly toward the goal of increased student learning. Thank you for your professionalism, compassion and commitment – during this 2014 National Teacher Appreciation Week and throughout the year.
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POLICY

Initial Review

601.2 School Calendar, bring back for first reading.
601.3 School Day, bring back with wording from Dept. of Education.
602.1 Elementary Curriculum, mark reviewed.
602.2 Middle School Curriculum, mark reviewed.
602.3 Senior High School Curriculum, bring back for first reading.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

Due to various circumstances there was no Board Report published for April 7 or April 21, 2014. Look for the next issue of The Board Report after the May 5, 2014, meeting of the Marshalltown Community School District Board of Education.

Board hears details of TLC plan

Marshalltown Community School District is one of 39 in the state selected for the Teacher Leadership Compensation (TLC) program for 2014-2015. Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the board more about what that system will look like within the District.

“This is exciting,” she said. “Over 140 districts submitted applications and they selected 39.”

The award was announced last week and will bring $1.6 million to the District for model classroom teachers, instructional coaches, and curriculum/professional development leaders. All the positions will be recruited from amongst current District Staff.

Model Classroom Teachers: $2,000 additional stipend and 5 additional contract days

• 36 Elementary
• 15 Lenihan
• 15 Miller
• 30 MHS

Instructional Coaches: $5,000-$7,000 additional stipend and 10 additional contract days

• 6 Elementary
• 2 Lenihan
• 2 Miller
• 2 MHS

Curriculum/Professional Development Leaders: $10,000-$12,000 additional stipend and 15 additional contract days

• 1 Elementary
• 1 Secondary

Dr. Pecinovsky and Superintendent Marvin Wade have a meeting with the Department of Education later this month to receive further guidance on implementation.
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Board reviews graduation, dropout rates

Marshalltown’s four-year graduation rate decreased and the five-year graduation rate increased according to figures released by the Department of Education last week.

The 4-year rate was 81.59 percent, down 3.5 percent from the year before.

“This isn’t the direction we want to be going when we have so many good things going in the district,” said Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement. “This has to change.”

The 5-year graduation rate jumped from 81.77 percent to 89.37 percent. Dr. Pecinovsky noted the use of Net High has given more students the opportunity to complete credits in ways not available before, which could contribute to more 5-year graduates. Still, Dr. Pecinovsky said, the emphasis needs to be on getting students to graduate in four years.

“We want [students] to graduate, but we really need to get [them] the supports to do it in four years,” she said.

The 9-12 dropout rate for 2012-2013 was also up: 7.45 percent compared to 6.35 percent the previous year.

Dr. Pecinovsky said the numbers had been shared with high school administrators and the next steps are to look at the data to determine who these students are, what is happening if they aren’t graduating, and how more students can graduate in four years.

“Let’s not keep doing more of the same if it’s not getting us the outcomes we need,” Dr. Pecinovsky said.

Dr. Marvin Wade, superintendent of schools, stressed that this is a district-wide discussion, not just a high school issue. He said the District will need to examine supports and programming at all levels.
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History club taking trip to Chicago

The Delegation for the Advancement of History, an extra-curricular club at Marshalltown High School, will travel to Chicago March 21-22, visiting the Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago.

The Board approved the out of state trip, which will include 13 MHS students and two chaperones.  The club is new to MHS and is supervised by social studies teacher Tim Johnson.
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Health Careers Club to visit St. Louis

The Marshalltown Area Health Careers Club will visit Washington University Medical School in St. Louis, Mo., April 4-5.

This is the third year the MHS club will visit a regional medical institution. GEAR UP and Marshalltown Medical & Surgical Center cover the trip costs. Dan Terrones, MHS dean of students, MHS teacher Erin Weatherly and MMSC CEO John Hughes will chaperone the 26 students.
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Tullis gives PEP grant overview

Matt Tullis, director of equity and learning supports, gave an overview of the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) grant at Monday’s meeting.

Details can be found here.
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Budget hearing set for April 7

The Board is set to vote on the 2014-2015 budget at the April 7 board meeting.

Monday the Board decided to publish a budget based on a tax rate of $18.15, an increase of $0.62 from 2013-2014. This would address both property devaluation and previous budget deficits, maintaining the overall financial health of the district in combination with the estimated budget reductions.

The proposed budget will be published in the Times-Republican and is also available here.

Marshalltown Community School District is considered “property poor” with an overall lower tax valuation than other Iowa districts. Property valuations dropped from $963 million in fiscal year (FY) 2013-2014 to $927 million in 2014-2015.

In the spring of 2013 the Board approved a tax levy of approximately $17.84 per $1000 valuation. This levy was based on zero percent allowable growth from the Iowa Legislature. After the levy was approved the Legislature approved 2 percent allowable growth and 2 percent one-time funding, allowing the district to decrease the levy to $17.53.

General Fund budget projections for next year show a $250,000 deficit. While the District saw an 80-student enrollment increase, there was also a 68-student open-enrollment increase. Early projections on salary and benefits packages show an increase of $1.66 million.

The increased tax levy would equate to an additional $33 in taxes on a $100,000 home.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

The selection of Marshalltown Schools for the Teacher Leadership and Compensation System was great news for many reasons, including the opportunity to expand continuous improvement efforts currently in place.  Among other things, TLC funding will allow us to extend the Comprehensive Literacy Model from its current K-6 implementation to K-8.  It will also support skill development in Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol for teachers K-12.  Applications for Model Classroom Teacher, Instructional Coach, and Curriculum/Professional Development Leader positions will soon be announced.  When the positions are posted, I encourage instructional staff to consider applying for one of these new professional opportunities.  The positions are available only to current employees of Marshalltown Schools, so I anticipate a strong candidate pool since we have a large number of truly outstanding teachers.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the Board considered options on property tax rates for funding our upcoming school year. We have a history of holding our tax levy rates constant and adjusting our services accordingly. Many know that the State has started the roll-back of commercial property valuations throughout Iowa. This effort will change the balance of property tax burden over the long term, but for the short term it will affect the funding of schools, local, and county governments. Like these other entities, MCSD will be challenged to reduce services to meet the funding decline of 3.5% while our cost rise and estimated 4% this next year. As a Board, we can raise tax rates and funding to accommodate the changes and can continue to provide consistent services to the community. As in any business, our rate of return for your investment needs to be reviewed and weighed by our tax payers. We ask for your input as we consider the choices that affect our District.
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Several B&G change orders receive approval

The Board reviewed and approved change orders from four separate constructions projects Monday night.

First, a change order for the Support Services Building addition and site development resulted in a $6,612 savings. Change orders related to remodeling the old Anson Middle School for administrative offices added $22,786, which still falls within the 5 percent contingency budget.

Change orders for the Roundhouse project ad a net addition of $40,677 and a change order for the Miller Middle School 1957 classroom remodel was $16,652.
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Policy

First Reading

504.30 Students with Pediculosis (Head Lice), changes recommended by school nurses, waive second reading
504.31R Administrating Medications to Students – Administrative Rules, changes recommended by school nurses

Initial Review

504.32/R Special Health Services for Students, mark reviewed.
505.2 Student Activity Fund, mark reviewed.
505.3 Class or Group Gifts to School, bring back for first reading.
505.4 Commencement, mark reviewed.
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Personnel – Click here.
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Woodbury Elementary students sat down with Board members Monday to share work they’d done using Chromebooks.

National Forensics qualifiers recognized

Marshalltown High School juniors Libby Crawford and Chandler Fisher qualified for the National Forensics Tournament, marking the sixth consecutive year of qualification by MHS students.

Both students came to the Board meeting Monday to be recognized and talk about their experience in forensics. Learn more here.
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Board discusses 2014-2015 budget

In preparation for publishing a budget proposal for 2014-2015, the Board of Education reviewed tax levy information and discussed local property values.

Marshalltown Community School District is considered “property poor” with an overall lower tax valuation than other Iowa districts. Property valuations dropped from $963 million in fiscal year (FY) 2013-2014 to $927 million in 2014-2015.

In the spring of 2013 the Board approved a tax levy of approximately $17.84 per $1000 valuation. This levy was based on zero percent allowable growth from the Iowa Legislature. After the levy was approved the Legislature approved 2 percent allowable growth and 2 percent one-time funding, allowing the district to decrease the levy to $17.53.

General Fund budget projections for next year show a $250,000 deficit. While the District saw an 80-student enrollment increase, there was also a 68-student open-enrollment increase. Early projections on salary and benefits packages show an increase of $1.66 million.

The Board reviewed two possibilities for next year. First, setting a tax levy at $17.82749. This increase would cover the property devaluation. Another option set the taxy levy at $18.15082. This would address both the devaluation and previous budget deficits, maintaining the overall financial health of the district in combination with the estimated budget reductions.

The increased tax levy would equate to an additional $33 in taxes on a $100,000 home.

No decision was made Monday and the Board will look at a formal budget to publish at the March 17 meeting. School boards in Iowa must submit their budgets to the state no later than April 15.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Monday we received word Marshalltown Community School District is one of 39 in Iowa selected for the state’s Teacher Leadership System. The fact we were chosen out of the 146 applicants is a clear example of the hard work that went into creating a strong application. Selection for this means we’ll be able to expand upon current teacher leadership structures. Read more here.
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POLICY

First Reading

503.2 Student Organization, enhanced definition of “curriculum-related organizations” and used examples from IASB, waive second reading.
503.3 School Publications, waive second reading.
503.6 Interscholastic Competition, waive second reading.
504.7 Emergency School Closings, added “district website” to list of notifications, waive second reading.

Initial Review

504.11 Wellness, mark reviewed.
504.14/E1/E2/E3/E4/R Harassment-Students, mark reviewed.
504.30 Head Lice, bring back for first reading with changes from school nurses.
504.31 Medication  Administration to Students, mark reviewed. Nurses recommended changes to regulations.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

Board hears update on At-Risk services, Four Oaks

Smoother transitions and local control are two of the continuing benefits outlined by Matt Cretsinger, director of special services, when he updated the Board on Four Oaks and At-Risk services Monday.

Four Oaks Family & Children Services provides three classrooms to support up to 35 students, primarily with Special Education services. Currently 20 students are enrolled, with two from out of the district and 18 Marshalltown students.

“We found we had a lot of students with intense behavioral needs and couldn’t meet their needs,” Cretsinger told the Board, outlining the decision last year to restructure services and contract with Four Oaks. “Often the needs had to be met out of district.”

Cretsinger said without Four Oaks 11 of the 20 students being served there would have required out-of-district services previously. Having Four Oaks in-district allows students to stay in district, allowing for better progress monitoring and the ability to transition students back into the regular school setting when appropriate.

“We have the ability to know what’s going on with those students,” Cretsinger said.

Cretsinger also discussed At-Risk services, which were restructured this year to align with Response to Intervention (RTI), provide services at schools prior to seeking off-site services, and focus the services at Marshalltown Learning Academy to target specific At-Risk needs. The restructuring also takes advantage of online learning opportunities, including Edgenuity and NET High.  The District has 30 Edgenuity software licenses that are being used regularly, Cretsinger said.

After one semester MLA students have earned or recovered 60 credits in core subject areas and eight At-Risk students have graduated. Cretsinger said it’s difficult to compare these numbers to last year since the restructuring has changed where students receive services (MLA, Four Oaks, or at their regular school).

Cretsinger said the District will continue to look at how to best utilize resources to support At-Risk students, including expanding Edgenuity licenses to meet the demand and look at ways to increase credit recovery.
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Board approves revised 2014-2015 calendar

The Board approved a slight revision to next year’s school calendar Monday, swapping two days of vacation from April and placing them in December.

This change was actually the calendar posted on BoardDocs at the Feb. 3 Board meeting. At the time Lisa Koester, director of human resources, told the board that version of the calendar was incorrect and the board voted to approve a different calendar. After the meeting, reexamination of vote tallies showed this calendar was correct.

The calendar approved Monday was the option receiving the most votes from the Marshalltown Education Association. It was one of two options presented by the calendar committee, which consists of teachers, administrators and Board members.

The only difference between the two calendars is two vacation days. The correct calendar has Dec. 22-23 as vacation days and April 1-2 as school days. In the calendar approved Feb. 3 those were reversed.

The updated 2014-2015 calendar is available on the district website under “Calendars” or by following this link.
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Board approves purchase of pedometers

The Board voted 5-1 to purchase 4,200 pedometers from US Games for $28,980.

The pedometers will be used to gather baseline data for the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) grant. Board member John Johnson voted against the purchase, citing that he wanted to know what other equipment was to be purchased in the grant before he approved the pedometers. He also wanted to be able to discuss the bids when Matt Tullis, director of equity and learning supports and grant coordinator, was able to be present.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Monday’s Board of Education meeting was held at Rogers Elementary despite the cancellation of school due to poor weather conditions.  With the last day of school currently Thursday, June 5, it seems fitting to remind staff not to schedule major commitments during the second week in June.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the report on the Marshalltown Learning Academy and Four Oaks programs were reviewed.

The Four Oaks program is new to Marshalltown and allows us to meet the special education needs of students within our district and minimize the out of district services that we were previously using. We also have capacity for students from the surrounding districts that helps minimize travel for those districts as well. This provides better control of the work done for these students, while being more efficient with the costs of the program. While the recent bad weather strikes all of our facilities and busing routes, it is nice to know we are minimizing the travel requirements by having this program here.

The Four Oaks program has changed the way we deliver services at MLA as some of the students are now in the new program. While we still serve many students through the MLA center, much of our program is now on site based at MHS and Miller.

We remain committed to engaging our students even when they need alternatives to the main stream education process. Both of these programs demonstrate that Marshalltown is leading educational services in this area.
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POLICY

Initial Review

504.6 – Work Permits, mark reviewed.
604.7 – Emergency School Closings, add website to list of announcements.
504.8 – Student Insurance, General, mark reviewed.
504.9 – Student Insurance, Athletic, mark reviewed.
504.10 – School Safety Patrols, mark reviewed.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.

2014-2015 school calendar approved

The 2014-2015 school year will begin for students on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2014, according to the calendar approved by the Board Monday night.

The last day of school will be Friday, May 29, 2015. Graduation will remain on Memorial Day weekend, with commencement exercises Sunday, May 24, 2015.

To view the full academic calendar visit the “Calendars” page of the District website or click here.
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Status report shows formerly expelled students working toward graduation

A report on students who were expelled during the 2011-2012 school year showed most are re-enrolled in Marshalltown Schools and working toward graduation.

The status report focused on the 2011-2012 school year because no students were expelled in 2012-2013. Lisa Koester, Director of Human Resources and Student Issues, told the board nine students were expelled in 2011-2012 and three were serving out expulsions from the 2010-2011 school year. Of those 12 students, seven are now enrolled in Marshalltown Schools.

Out of the remaining five students, one moved out of district, one dropped out, one was placed in foster care outside the district, one is incarcerated and one enrolled in Job Corps in Dennison, Iowa.
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Contracts approved for Roundhouse Phase 2 project manager, architect

Roundhouse groundbreaking ceremony in November 2013.

The Board approved CPMI as project manager and RDG as architect on Phase 2 of the Roundhouse project, taking the first step toward completing the community-funded portion of the project.

Phase 2 includes an auxiliary gym and wrestling room with estimated cost of $3.8 million. Jennifer Wilson, Board vice president and member of the District Design Advisory Committee, said the fundraisers have almost reached the $1 million needed for the matching grant from the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation. The DAC agreed fundraising had progressed enough to move forward with these contracts, which pave the way for design development and drawings.

Work on the first phase of construction is currently underway.
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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTNEDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

During Monday’s meeting the Board of Education approved two contracts that are important to the many individuals involved in the Renovate the Roundhouse effort.

The contracts authorize CPMI (Project Management) and RDG (Architectural and Engineering) to begin designing for new construction of an auxiliary gymnasium and wrestling room at the Roundhouse. These much-needed additional structures are being funded by generous donations from individual, corporate and foundation supporters of the Bobcats from all across the country. Although additional funds need to be raised before construction can begin, the Board expressed confidence that the design process should begin now – so construction can be started, without interruption, as soon as fundraising targets are met. The ability to extend the scope of the Roundhouse renovation/expansion is just the latest in a long list of projects demonstrating Marshalltown’s strong commitment to the education and health of its residents.
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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Sherm Welker, Board President

Tonight the Board was updated on the status of expulsions for the 2011-12 school year. Of the 12 students that were expelled that year, seven have continued their education here at MCSD and are on track to graduate. The remaining five students have left the district or have extenuating circumstances that prevent them from finishing their degree requirements here.

We struggle with expulsions when they occur, but know the discipline and standards must be high to ensure the well being and safety of our schools. The great news is that for both the 2012-13 and the current 2013-14 school years we have zero expulsions to track. The district has implemented the PBIS (Positive Behavior Instruction Support) model and the students have accepted the challenge to raise the bar on behavior and attitude. Thanks to all of the students, staff, and administration for your efforts.
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POLICY

First Reading

503.7 Attendance at Events Outside of School, deleted.
503.8 Student Honors and Awards, waive second reading.

Initial Review

503.2 Student Organization, bring back IASB policy
503.3 School Publications, bring back with corresponding regulation.
503.6 Interscholastic Competition, discuss with Mr. Huegel
504.1 Student Health and Immunization Certificates, mark reviewed.
504.2 Exclusion for Communicable Diseases, mark reviewed.
504.3 Injury or Illness at School, mark reviewed.
504.4 Use of Bicycles, mark reviewed.
504.5 Use of Motor Vehicles, mark reviewed.
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PERSONNEL – Click here.