The Board Report

View PDF version here.

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

Award-Winning Essay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Jennifer Wilson, Board Vice-President

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Community meeting focuses on third grade literacy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

By Kay Beach, Board President

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

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

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

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

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

MAP assessments used to inform instruction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Work on three district facilities projects remains on schedule.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

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

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

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

Happy New Year.
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NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

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

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

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

Resignations
Ana Huerta, Fisher Bilingual Tutor; effective Dec. 16, 2011.
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Download PDF version.

Durrant Group named architect for Roundhouse project

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

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

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

By Kay Beach, Board President

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Nine educators take advantage of early retirement program

Nine district employees will take advantage of the voluntary early retirement incentive this year.

Human Resources Director Lisa Koester told the Board the nine early retirements and one regular retirement represented 255 years of educating in Marshalltown Schools. Besides the 10 teachers retiring, there was also one food service retirement.

The window to take the early retirement incentive for 2011-2012 closed Dec. 1. On Nov. 21 the Board approved continuing the early retirement program in the 2012-2013 school year. The deadline to take advantage of that program is Dec. 1, 2012.

Retirees:

Lois Eige
Title I, Woodbury
27 years

Pat Fowler
Math, Miller
32 years

Diane Lewis
Special Ed, Hoglan
21 years

Peggy Lynch
Language Arts, Miller
35 years

Pat Pistorius
Grade 6, Lenihan
17 years

Marcia Plett
K-4 ELP, Fisher/Rogers/Woodbury
26.5 years

Joan Smith
Title I, Woodbury
16 years

Connie Stansberry
Grade 3, Anson
39 years

Carol Webb
Art, Miller
14.75 years

Linda Stephens*
Language Arts, Miller
27 years

Elizabeth Schmidt*
Food Service, MHS
28.5 years

*Regular retirees not part of the voluntary early retirement program
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Blue Zones project receives Board support

The Board lent its support to Marshalltown’s Blue Zones Community initiative by passing a resolution Monday night.

“This is an important initiative for our community and I think a unique opportunity for the state of Iowa,” said Carol Hibbs, who with Kim Schryver serves as a co-chair on the Healthier Communities Coalition.

The Blue Zones project stems from work by National Geographic identifying the places in the world where people live long, happy lives. Marshalltown is one of 58 communities invited to compete to be one of three or four selected to work with the Blue Zones team.
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West bus barn set for demolition

The Board approved the demolition of the west bus barn.

The building is located along Linn Creek and 12th Street and has not been utilized as a bus barn for some time since newer buses are too large to fit into the bays. The building was on a low priority list for demolition until the July windstorm damaged it.

Part of the building will remain as storage for snowplow blades and some buildings and grounds storage.
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Board discusses Instructional Support Levy

The Board discussed the Instructional Support Levy Monday night.

The Instructional Support Levy provides support for general fund programs. In Marshalltown Schools the primary use is for the purchase of textbooks and related instructional materials ($340,000), funding the student information system ($50,000), funding building budget allocations ($990,000), and information technology ($617,000).

Director of Business Operations Kevin Posekany told the Board Marshalltown Schools have had the levy in place for many years and about 98 percent of schools in Iowa do as well.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Recent research indicates that physical and emotional health issues of students are seriously impacting attendance, academic performance, school safety and dropout rates across the country. Our district is addressing these concerns with efforts such as Safe Schools/Healthy Students – and tonight’s Board Resolution in support of Marshalltown becoming a Blue Zones Community.

If Marshalltown is selected as one of the three or four initial Blue Zones Communities, national experts will provide us with substantial assistance in developing a plan that will improve the quality of life for our students, their families and our entire community.

A key criteria for selection is support from 25 percent of community members who are 13 years or older. You can help our community meet this goal by adding your name to the list of residents who support Marshalltown as a Blue Zones Community. There is no financial cost and the only commitment of time is a few minutes to go online or to send a text.

I encourage you to join thousands of other Marshalltown residents who have committed to the Blue Zones Project. By strengthening partnerships with our community, MCSD significantly increases its ability to help our children thrive academically, physically, socially and emotionally.

Support the Blue Zones Project

Online:
Go to www.bluezonesproject.com
Click on “I’m a Citizen”
Answer the questions
Remember to include our 50158 zip code

Mobile:
Text BZP to 772937
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

For quite a few years now MCSD has been offering qualifying teachers an early retirement incentive, and this year nine veteran teachers have indicated a desire to take advantage of this program at the end of this school year.  A total of ten teachers have indicated that they intend to make this their last year of teaching.  These ten teachers represent a total of 255 years of teaching experience!  It is mind-boggling to contemplate the number of lives that have been positively impacted by these professional educators.  The professional expertise, the wisdom, and the dedication represented by this kind of longevity in a profession are not easy to replace; and, on behalf of all the Board, I want to thank each of these teachers for their service to our community.  Education offers the pathway to success in life, and those responsible for guiding our young people along that pathway provide an invaluable contribution, not only to their students, but to society as a whole.
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Policy

Second Reading: 804.2, 804.2-R, 804.2-E Video Surveillance and Electronic Monitoring (policy, regulations & exhibits), approved.
First Reading: 204.3 Closed Sessions, changes made to reflect changes in Iowa Code, waive second reading.
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Personnel

Resignations
Deb Harrelson, Bus Monitor, effective Nov. 1, 2011.
Ashley Martinez, Franklin paraeducator, effective Nov. 28, 2011.
Tabitha Meyers, Lenihan paraeducator, effective Dec. 9, 2011.

Appointments
Ryan Williams, MHS Drum line Coach/Instructor. Start date: Sept. 15, 2011; Salary: $1675/year.
Stephanie Ferguson, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 6, 2011; Salary: $9.48/hour.
Yawo Sassouvi, MHS custodian. Start date: Dec. 6, 2011; Salary: $12.50/hour 12/6/11-6/5/12; $13/hour 6/6/12-6/30/12.
Aimee Eitel, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012. Salary: $8.47/hour.
Shontell Stanton: Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 6, 2011; Salary: $9.48/hour.
Tayler Bovenmyer, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Jan. 3, 2012; Salary: $9.48/hour.
Ashlea Dall, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Dec. 6, 2011; Salary: $9.48/hour.

Change of Contract
Alison Brezina, bus driver. Start date: Nov. 8, 2011. Change to $755.91/month.
Dick Paxson, bus driver. Start date: Nov. 15, 2011. Change to $9.85/hour.
Celene Anderson, Woodbury paraeducator. Start date: Nov. 16, 2011; Salary to $8.47/hour, 6.5 hours/day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday; 5.5 hours Wednesday.

View PDF version here.

Students see growth, better prepared for school after Rogers University

L to R: Dr. Mick Jurgensen, Clarissa Thompson and Arlene McAtee tell the Board about the success of Rogers University.

The great success of Rogers University, the six-week summer education program at Rogers Elementary, was highlighted during Monday’s Board meeting.

Arlene McAtee, executive director for Mid-Iowa Community Action, along with MICA’s Clarissa Thompson and Rogers principal Dr. Mick Jurgensen shared data about student growth in reading and math and how students, parents and teachers could see the benefits when school resumed in the fall.

Rogers University was made possible by a 21st Century Learning Community Grant received by MICA. The program served 114 students (78 K-3 and 36 Preschool) from June 20 to July 29 (Preschool program ran June 20-July 1). During the six weeks each student followed an individualized education plan with clear goals and routine monitoring of progress. Each day students began with breakfast, followed by reading or math lessons taught with a 5-to-1 student/teacher ratio.  After lunch, students took part in enrichment activities including art, drama, technology, physical activity, life skills and service learning.

The program also included a Family Literacy and Parent University component, with GED and ESL academies being most popular.

“We want to wrap the community in support around the school,” McAtee told the board, saying the goal is to create a “culture of success” for students and the community.

Student progress was monitored according to whether or not they met their individual goal, if they regularly exceeded baseline, and if there was an upward trend line. More than 95 percent of student met at least one of these criteria in reading and nearly 93 percent did the same in math. A survey of parents during fall conferences showed 100 percent of parents believed Rogers University helped students be better prepared for school in the fall, with 73.1 percent noting a significant benefit.

Planning is already underway for Rogers University 2012.
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2012-2013 Early Retirement Program approved

The Board approved the voluntary early retirement program for the 2012-2013 school year.

The program offers qualifying early retirees continued insurance coverage until Medicare-eligible or for 96 months. The policy also states that the district will pay any insurance premium increases up to 5 percent – anything over that is covered by the retiree.

The early retirement incentive is paid through the district Management Fund, which is also used to cover workers’ comp and property/casualty insurance. Business Operations Director Kevin Posekany told the Board the fund continues to be healthy as each year approximately the same number of people leave the early retirement program as enter it.

The early retirement incentive is already in place for 2011-2012. Eligible employees looking to take advantage of the incentive this school year must apply by Dec. 1, 2011.
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Board moves forward with work on former Anson Middle School

The Board approved the scope of work for work at Support Services, formerly Anson Middle School.

The project includes demolition of the 1925 building and remodeling in order to move the district central office to the upper floors of that building. The project would also create a separate entrance with stairwell and elevator to the central office.

The local of the 1925 building will be graded down and turned into parking.

The project also included an option to demolish a garage at the bus barn, but the board voted 4-1 to pull that out of the scope of work and deal with it as a separate project.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening, the Board of Education chose to extend the District’s Voluntary Early Retirement Incentive Program into the 2012-2013 school year.

Teachers wanting voluntary early retirement at the end of the current 2011-2012 school year have until Dec. 1, 2011, to notify the District of this intent. Those planning voluntary early retirement at the end of the 2012-2013 school year have a notification deadline of Dec. 1, 2012.

I encourage any teacher who is contemplating retirement to closely examine the Licensed Teaching Staff Voluntary Retirement Incentive Program policy. This policy, number 407.6, can be found by going to the District website (www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us) and clicking on “School Board.” Click on a link at the bottom of this page called “400 Series – Personnel” (under the heading Board Policy).

I hope everyone has a safe, restful and enjoyable Thanksgiving.
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Notes from the Board

By Jennifer Wilson, Board Vice-President

Learning about the successes of the Rogers Neighborhood Project (Rogers University) was the main focus of tonight’s Board meeting. The six-week summer educational program shows what happens when community leaders from a variety of entities come together for one purpose: to increase student achievement.

Arlene McAtee, Director for Mid-Iowa Community Action, the lead agency on this grant supported initiative, shared a powerful and energetic message stressing the importance of reducing educational gaps for our students, especially those who live in poverty.  McAtee and MCSD’s own Dr. Mick Jurgensen, Rogers Elementary principal, shared that the cost of running this summer program was approximately $1200 per child, kindergarten through third grade, and $361 for pre-school. The investment to those children will far outweigh the costs; by using several educational assessments the teachers have demonstrated how summer programming increased reading and math scores and reduced the loss many children experience due to being away from school during the summer months.

Students identified to participate in Rogers University were done so because they were below proficiency in math and reading.  Clarissa Thompson, also with MICA, shared astounding data; over 75 percent of the kindergartners through third graders who participated showed significant upward trends in both math and reading on the weekly assessments. In addition, all students participated in 60 minutes of health and wellness physical activity per day stressing the importance of nutrition and health.

The partnership between the school district and the numerous agencies that were apart of this magnificent opportunity leads me, as a board member, parent, and community partner, to understand how we continue to strive for new innovative ideas that will lead us toward our end goal of being Central Iowa’s school district of choice.
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Personnel

Resignations

Brittney Benson, Franklin paraeducator, effective Nov. 22, 2011.
Geoffrey Gimse, District Network Specialist, effective Nov. 30, 2011.
Stephen Jensen, MLA paraeducator, effective Nov. 11, 2011.

Appointments

Shelly Dall, MHS food service. Start date: Oct. 10, 2011; Salary: $9.84/hour.
Melissa Seltman, Fisher/Lenihan Literacy Intervention Tutor. Start date: Nov. 28, 2011; Salary: $18.80/hour.
Sheyla Abazan, Anson Bilingual Tutor. Start date: Nov. 22, 2011; Salary: $11/hour.
Brian Bown, MHS assistant debate coach. Start date: Nov. 8, 2011; Salary: $2,424/year.
Randy Peterson, MHS assistant drama coach. Start date: Nov. 8, 2011; Salary: $507/year.
Patty Nevarez, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Nov. 21, 2011; Salary: $8.47/hour.

Change of Contract

Kim Cole, Miller food service. Start date: Nov. 21, 2011; Change to $10.34/hour, 5.25 hours/day.
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Policy

801.6 Selection of an Architect, waive second reading
204.3 Closed Sessions, initial review, changes to reflect changes in legislature.
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District seeks waiver to create innovative calendar

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District enrollment increases by 122

Preliminary enrollment figures show an increase in 122 students in Marshalltown Schools for 2011-2012.

The District has a funded enrollment of 5,322 students, up from 5,200 in 2010-2011. Human Resources Director Lisa Koester told the Board this figure reflects the number of students for which the District will receive funding.

Preschool enrollment continues to grow, with 184 students in the program for 4-year-olds this year, up from 162 in 2010-2011. Special Services Director Lisa Glenn said every available spot is full and there are waiting lists at each building. After Fisher Elementary opens a preschool program next fall, all six elementary schools will have preschool.

Open enrollment out figures remain around 8 percent, which is consistent with state trends.
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Food Service upgrades Miller, MHS serving lines

Rapids Foodservice of Marion was awarded the low bid for upgrades to serving lines at Miller Middle School and Marshalltown High School.

The $56,381 purchase includes two hot serving lines and two cold serving lines each at MHS and Miller. The addition will allow students at each school to have their choice of four entrees.

The need for increased serving lines stems from the decision to make MHS a closed campus. Food Service Director Vickie McVey said they are serving 400-500 more students each day. She told the Board MHS food service serves 1,000 meals a day in approximately 30 minutes through four serving lines with four entrees, two salad bar lines and two snack bar lines.

McVey said the elimination of a la carte sales during study halls and the downsizing of a la carte options (changing four snack bar lines to two meal lines) has meant some decreased revenue. The additional students eating lunch and breakfast, however, has more than made up for that and will help offset the cost of the equipment upgrades.
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Franklin Field change orders save $3,044

Change orders at the Franklin Field Gateway Project saved $3,044.

The major reduction in cost comes from the elimination of 32 stone accent pieces (saving $3,389). Two other change orders were for a combined increase of $345 (welded wire and panels for window openings).
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Hoglan mansard, soffit project complete

The Board approved a Resolution of Acceptance for the Hoglan mansard and soffit replacement project.

The project was completed by Vis Roofing, Ltd., of Marshalltown for $134,000. Work on the project began June 20, 2011.
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Personnel

Resignations

Brenda Krough, Hoglan paraeducator, effective Oct. 4, 2011.
Cheryl Parker, Miller food service, effective Sept. 16, 2011.
Vicki Cruikshank, Franklin paraeducator, effective Sept. 29, 2011.
Tracy Macbeth, MHS paraeducator, effective Oct. 28, 2011.

Appointments

Mike Ruth, bus driver, start date: Oct. 3, 2011; salary: $18,131.95/year.
Nicole Jones, Lenihan paraeducator, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $9.48/hour.
Kayla Tate, Lenihan paraeducator, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $8.47/hour.
Adrianna Madrigal-Vasquez, Lenihan paraeducator, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $9.48/hour.
Gloria Harris, Rogers paraeducator, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $9.48/hour.
John Augustine, assistant seventh grade girls basketball coach, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $2,242/year.
John Fiscus, assistant seventh grade boys basketball coach, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $2,242/year.
Cindy Jones, assistant MHS girls track coach, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $3,190/year.
Allie Osmundson, MHS head girls soccer coach, start date: Oct. 18, 2011; salary: $4,099/year.

Change of Contract

Stacie Holmes, Hoglan paraeducator, change to MHS for 6.5 hours/day Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and 5.5 hours/day Wednesday. Salary: $8.96/hour.
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Policy

First Reading

804.2 Video Surveillance and Electronic Monitoring, change policy to reference FERPA, change state to Iowa (Ohio policy used as a template).

Initial Review

605. 3 Student Promotion – Retention, looked at policies developed by other districts; If students are not meeting grade-level expectations parents and school staff will meet to develop an intervention plan for the student. The school principal is responsible for monitoring the development and implementation of intervention plans.
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

This evening the Board received two pieces of welcome news. We learned that our certified enrollment (that is, the enrollment which will determine the amount of state funding we receive in the 2012-2013 school year) is up by over 120 students this year. This translates to over $720,000 in additional revenue for next year – the year which has been projected to be the tightest for our budget since 2008.

This, of course, doesn’t mean we don’t have to continue to spend very conservatively; but it could mean a few less difficult decisions.

The second piece of information was that, although we are always concerned when families choose to enroll outside the district, our open enrollments have been and continue to be under the state average. One of the Board’s goals is to substantially reduce this number by pursuing a vigorous public relations campaign to spread the word about all the GOOD things that we offer our students and families. Watch for it!
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

With less than one month in office, our three new board members have already demonstrated the ability to adjust to a hectic pace established by their veteran peers.  In two October meetings, the Board has adopted a decision-making protocol for the Board, committed to study of a book called “School Board Member Handbook,” and dealt with issues involving budget, construction, policies, committee work, and student discipline.  In addition, there has been a 90-minute board duties overview, a three hour orientation with district administrators, a four hour “board visioning” work session, and committee meetings of the Business Education Alliance, Advisory Committee on Intergovernmental Relations, and Design Advisory Committee.  Within the next week the Board will participate in an Iowa Association of School Boards workshop called “Foundations of Effective Board Service,” as well as meetings of the Marshalltown Auditorium Foundation Partnership and the Labor Management Committee.  I mention all of this so people can better understand that the Board’s commitment to our children and community goes well beyond the 5-10 hours per month of board meetings – many behind-the-scenes hours are necessary for successful governance of our district.
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STEP introduces high school students to philanthropy

Members of Students Teaching & Empowering Philanthropy or STEP (L to R) Teresa Miller, Riley Willman, Lainey Crawford and Dan Martin, discuss how their organization supports numerous programs in Marshalltown.

Students representing STEP (Students Teaching & Empowering Philanthropy) came before the Board Monday night to discuss their organization’s work in the community.

STEP was formed during the 2010-2011 school year with the goal of engaging youth in philanthropy and giving in the community. The program is sponsored by the Martha-Ellen Tye Foundation and the Community Foundation of Marshall County.

Students develop their own grant application process and reach out to local non-profit organizations. Last year the group received five applications and were able to divide their $5,000 between them. Applicants must be agencies with projects or programs that include youth. Preference is given to “applicants that address social, academic, cultural and/or recreational issues.”

In the first year STEP included 20 members ranging from sophomores to seniors at Marshalltown High School. This year the group includes 22 members.

Any MHS student is able to apply to be member.

2010-2011 STEP Grant Recipients

House of Compassion – $1,400 to help stock their Supply Closet

Child Abuse Prevention Services – $1,000 for safety items as part of the Building Healthy Families program

Marshall Co. Conservation Board – $920 for Skis for Kids program

Marshalltown Community Concert Association – $850 for the Star Encore program

Marshall County Arts & Culture Alliance – $830 for kids activities at the 2011 Linn Creek Arts Festival

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Professional development schedule keeps teachers in the classroom

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky showed the Board detailed plans Monday for District professional development.

“We worked very hard last spring to design professional development that does not pull teachers out of the classroom,” said Pecinovksy, associate superintendent for student achievement.

The District added an additional day of PD to the beginning of the school year in August and added one mid-year on Jan. 2, 2012. Those, combined with the full-day Sept. 30, 2011, and Feb. 3, 2012, in-service days will provide staff with necessary training while keeping them in the classroom providing quality instruction.

Teacher PD focuses on four main areas:

• Common Unit Design – ensuring students across a grade level/subject area receive the same instruction
• Sheltered Instruction Operation Protocol (SIOP) – method for structured teaching allowing all students to increase access to curriculum – particularly students with language barriers
• Positive Behavioral Interventions & Supports (PBIS) – Articulate expectations and structures and procedures to create sense of order and community; MMS/MHS starts work in January/February – Elementary schools already on it
• Language/Literacy Framework – looking at balanced instruction of reading, writing, speaking, listening, viewing

Administrators will also have regularly-scheduled PD, which includes work to become stronger leaders, focus on how to use data to inform instruction, and a book study.

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Board reviews facilities plans

Work on Fisher Elementary and Marshalltown High School are on schedule, according District Architect Dave Schulze.

Schulze and Buildings & Grounds Director Rick Simpson gave the Board an update on the district facilities plan Monday night. Schulze said work on the MHS second floor classroom addition should be completed on schedule in early 2012 and the Fisher Elementary renovation, remodel and addition should be completed by August 2012.

Schulze and Simpson touched on many of the other projects in the facilities plan as well, including moving Central Office to the Support Services building (formerly Anson Middle School) and renovation of the Miller Middle School Auditorium and MHS Roundhouse.

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Change orders approved for Fisher, MHS projects

The Board approved change orders for two ongoing construction projects.

A change order for Phase II of the Fisher Elementary project was approved for $19.462.33. This included lighting and mechanical adjustments and a tree removal and replacement.

A change order for the Marshalltown High School second floor classroom addition was approved for $25,056. This included changes by the fire marshal and other adjustments.

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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Tonight, Dr. Pecinovsky presented information showing how professional development is an important part of our district improvement effort. Later in the evening the Board of Education demonstrated a similar commitment by choosing to make “Board Development” a regular agenda item for MCSD board meetings.

The Board reviewed its recommendations for the 2012 legislative session, as well as ten questions board members can ask in almost any situation to promote informed decision-making:

1. What is our policy?

2. What is our current practice?

3. If there is a precedent what is it?

4. Is there any legal guidance in this matter?

5. Do we have adequate background information?

6. What input is there from appropriate staff and stakeholders?

7. What are options and alternatives?

8. What is the Administrative recommendation?

9. Does this contribute to our mission and vision

10. Is this in the best interest of MCSD students?

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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

This evening Dr. Susan Pecinovsky outlined the professional development that has been planned for the current school year for both teachers and administrators.

Recently someone asked me, when I mentioned professional development in our conversation about the schools, “Why do they need professional development?  Don’t they already know how to teach?”   Tonight’s presentation answered that question so well, pointing out all of the different strategies that our teachers are employing in reaching students of varying abilities and backgrounds, making sure that all students end up with a sound educational foundation—and that the education is delivered in a safe, secure environment in which learning can thrive.

This year’s program is especially good because much of the material was covered during two days of pre-opening workshops, thus preserving precious in-the-classroom time for teachers.

Administrators, too, are constantly learning the strategies that their teachers use and also studying ways to collect and use data to strengthen instruction.

Improving student achievement means more and harder work for both students and their mentors.

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PERSONNEL

Resignations

Laurie Buchwald, Fisher Literacy Intervention Tutor, effective Oct. 5, 2011.
Jill Biggs, MHS paraeducator, effective Oct. 5, 2011.

Terminations

Haley Williams, MHS paraeducator, effective Sept. 2, 2011.

Appointments

Kristine Fisher, Miller paraeducator, start date: Oct. 3, 2011. Salary: $9.48/hour.
Patricia Nevarez, Franklin paraeducator, start date: Oct. 10, 2011. Salary: $8.47/hour.

Change of Contract

Kayleen Schwartsenburg, Miller paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011. Change from time sheet to contract.

Link to a PDF version.

New/Exiting Board of Education members

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Election Results

Four-Year Seats
Kay Beach – 570 votes*
Anne Paullus – 554 votes*
Sherm Welker – 545 votes*
John Johnson – 531 votes*

Write-In (Two-Year Seat)
Jason Jablonski – 120 votes*
Frank Ocasio – 110 votes

Revenue Purpose Statement
Yes – 527*
No 183

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Board makes appointments

The Board went through its list of annual appointments Monday night, with all former appointees keeping their positions:

• School Attorney: Cartwright, Druker and Ryden as School Attorney for 2011-2012.
• Collective bargaining counsel: Rex Ryden
• Additional Legal Counsel for selected legal issues: Ahlers, Cooney, PC
• Architect of Record: TSP Inc.

Kevin Posekany was appointed as Board secretary/treasurer. Kay Beach was elected Board President and Jennifer Wilson was elected Board Vice-President.

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2012-2013 calendar gets Board approval

The 2012-2013 school calendar was approved Monday night.

The first day of school will be Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012. Spring Break will be March 25-29, 2013. The last day of school is scheduled for Thursday, May 30, 2013.

Conferences will be the week of Oct. 15, 2012, and the week of March 4, 2013.

The Board also approved sending a waiver to the state for an early start of the school year, which is required for any school calendar where the first day of school falls in a week before the first of September.

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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening we said good-bye to three board members and welcomed three others to the Board.

I have appreciated the vision and support of former Vice President Jay Merryman and Directors Richard Hessenius and Scott Lothe. They have worked tirelessly on behalf of the district and made significant contributions to benefit our students, staff and community.

Our three newest board members, Jason Jablonski, John Johnson and Sherm Welker are eager to make a difference in our schools and community – as demonstrated by their active involvement in tonight’s nearly two-hour board member orientation session. This session was facilitated by continuing Board President Kay Beach and newly elected Vice President Jennifer Wilson, and included discussion about the role of the Board, the Board’s protocol for communicating with one another and the community, and each of the components that make up the board agenda.

When given an opportunity, I hope Marshalltown Community School District staff will welcome our newest members to the Board.

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Personnel

Resignations

Courtney Moore, Franklin paraeducator, Sept. 12, 2011.
Jana Dillon, Miller food service, Sept. 16, 2011.
Ashley Lewis, Lenihan paraeducator, Sept. 19, 2011.
Lori Kubli, Rogers paraeducator, Sept. 30, 2011.
Rebecca West, MHS paraeducator, Sept. 23, 2011.
Jacob Borton, Miller paraeducator and bus driver, Sept. 30, 2011.

Terminations

Heather Daniel, MLA paraeducator, Aug. 29, 2011.

Appointments

Nicole Clark, Franklin paraeducator, start date: Sept. 27, 2011; salary: $8.47/hour.
Lisa Huxham, MHS paraeducator, start date: Sept. 27, 2011; salary: $8.47/hour.
Cedra Baccam, MHS paraeducator, start date: Sept. 27, 2011; salary: $8.47/hour.
Brenda Palmer, Woodbury paraeducator, start date: Oct. 3, 2011; salary: $9.48/hour.
C’Yanna Ochoa, Woodbury paraeducator, start date: Oct. 1, 2011; salary: $9.48/hour.
Blair Benefield, assistant 8th grade volleyball coach, start date: Aug. 22, 2011; salary: $2,242.
David Case, co-head 8th grde girls basketball coach, start date: Sept. 13, 2011; salary: $2,242.
Sam Backstrom, MHS assistant boys swim coach, start date: Sept. 12, 2011; salary: $3,190.
Paula Rutherford, District Resource Specialist – Health, start date: Sept. 21, 2011; salary: $3,700.
Debbie Wollam, assistant MHS cheer coach. start date: Sept. 12, 2011; salary: $1,914.
Claudia Boeding, MHS paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary: $8.47/hour.
Carla Goettsch, 12-month secretary at B&G, start date: Nov. 1, 2011; Salary: $10/hour.

Change of Contract

Curtis Jarrell, Bus driver, start date: Nov. 1, 2011; salary: $8,551.95.
Michael Awes, Hoglan paraeducator, start date: Sept. 6, 2011. Change to 7.5 hours/M-T-Th-F, 6.5 hours/Wednesday.
Caitlin Ellis, Hoglan paraeducator, start date: Sept. 6, 2011. Change to 7.5 hours/M-T-Th-F, 6.5 hours/Wednesday.
Rose Fuller, Woodbury paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011. Change to 7.25 hours/M-T-Th-F, 7 hours/Wednesday.
Tiffany Witte, Rogers paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011. Change to 7.5 hours/M-T-W-Th, 7 hours/Friday.
Lori Kubli, Rogers paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011. Change to 7.5 hours/M-T-W-Th, 7 hours/Friday.

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