The Board Report

LSS keep connections with kids through summer

Connecting students and families with the resources for success goes well beyond the school year, and the Learning Supports Specialists know it.

Monday night they talked to the Board about their work during summer break and throughout the school year.

“Over the course of the last 12 months the inroads we made in getting to know families and staff have been great,” said Jason August, LSS at Hoglan Elementary.

The LSS were hired as part of the Safe Schools/Healthy Students Initiative. Program Coordinator Matt Tullis explained the role of the LSS in the District, saying each LSS has an average case load of 25 students they track throughout the year. Most of these students have significant barriers in learning in their lives. The LSS, who come from social work backgrounds, help students and their families work through these issues.

Right now LSS are helping buildings contact families who didn’t attend registration to make sure they’re signed up for school next week.

Paraeducator contract approved

The Board approved a contract between the District and Local No. 238 of the Teamsters Union representing MCSD paraeducators.

This is the first collective bargaining agreement for paraeducators in the district. The agreement increases wages by 1.6 percent for 2011-2012 with an increase of 0.8 percent on the starting wage for all positions.

The new agreement also includes one paid holiday (Memorial Day). The insurance package will remain the same as it was prior to the collective bargaining agreement.

There are currently 200 paraeducators on staff.

Teacher trainings begin Tuesday

Marshalltown teachers return to work Tuesday with three days of professional development and training.

Additional professional development days were added into the calendar on Aug. 16, 2011, and Jan. 3, 2012, using EdJobs funding. Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, said the goal was to provide training teachers needed on those days so they aren’t pulled out of instruction during the school year.

Bid accepted for Franklin Field Gateway Project

Hay Construction will complete the Franklin Field Gateway Project.

The Marshalltown firm was awarded the $129,768 project with the base bid and all three alternates. The final cost of the project including design fees and other expenses will be around $158,000. The community group raising funds to complete the renovation has netted $149,722.30 so far. Board Vice President Jay Merryman motioned to approve the entire project – even though it is over the current amount raised – because he said they should have faith the group would meet the goal.

Jane Bauer told the Board donations are still being received, including one from the Class of 1947, which emptied its remaining treasury and donated $223.30. And additional $10,403.53 has been received in in-kind donations.

B&G prepared for school year

District facilities will be ready for students to return Aug. 23, says buildings operations supervisor Pat Hemming.

Hemming shared with the Board details of summer work to prepare the schools and other facilities for another school year. Along with the full-time B&G staff, there were 10,000 part-time and summer help hours put in. The district also went through 140 5-gallon pails of floor wax.

Hemming made special note of the dedicated employees who were on the ball within hours of the July 11 wind storm, picking up debris and cleaning the grounds when most of the town was still without power.

“You’ve got one of the best crews in the state of Iowa working for this district,” he said.

2011-2012 District goals, objectives

Increasing student academic achievement and ensuring safe and organized schools are the goals for 2011-2012.
Dr. Marvin Wade, superintendent of schools, shared the primary goal (academic achievement) and secondary goal (safe, organized schools) and the objectives and indicators to measure progress.

Increasing academic achievement has two objectives: increasing academic performance and increasing readiness for further education and employment.

Objectives for the secondary goal include reducing incidents of disruptive behavior and improving student engagement.

The goals are part of the larger District Strategic Action Plan, which maps out a focused, measurable strategy for continual improvement in all areas over the next four years.

Change orders approved

The Board approved change orders to two ongoing construction projects Monday.

A change order for the Fisher Elementary project cost $36,136.10. A $28,858 was approved for the MHS second floor addition project to accommodate operational needs at the school.

NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

We know that social, emotional and behavioral issues of our children and youth continue to exist during the summer months, so it was great to hear tonight’s report from Learning Support Specialists of the District. The ongoing success of these employees in matching family needs with community resources demonstrates the importance of maintaining a strong year-round relationship between schools and families – as well as the fact there is no “summer break” in MCSD’s commitment to our mission “to nurture students to become intellectually and personally empowered for citizenship in a changing world.”

NOTES FROM THE BOARD

By Kay Beach, Board President

I want to express the Board’s gratitude to all of the hard-working, dedicated members of our Buildings and Grounds department who have worked all summer to clean and refurbish all of our schools in anticipation of next week’s opening day of classes. Every one of the district’s buildings has had safety system checks– and repairs to those systems where necessary; keeping students and staff safe is always a top priority. Several buildings have had major repairs and renovations that have gotten in the way of the routine summer scrubbing and polishing that had to be done. All of Fisher School’s fourth grade classrooms were moved to Lenihan, which meant that Lenihan also had to be re-configured. Literally thousands of hours have gone into getting everything shipshape for school to start—and those hours were all put in within a ten-week period of time in the midst of the extreme heat and humidity that we’ve experienced this summer and despite being a week without electricity. But most remarkable of all—these folks have worked without grumbling, just hoping that their efforts will be noticed, appreciated, and respected. Let’s make a point of saying “thank you” whenever we have the opportunity.

PERSONNEL

Resignations

Ryan Anderson, 8th grade volleyball/girls basketball coach, effective Aug. 10, 2011.
Katie Christensen, MHS assistant softball coach, effective July 28, 2011.
Melissa Fry, MHS paraeducator, effective July 25, 2011.
Cole Jansen, Miller paraeducator, effective Aug. 9, 2011.
Creighton Jenness, MHS assistant boys soccer coach, effective Aug. 1, 2011.
Aaron Johnson, MHS paraeducator, effective Aug. 10, 2011.
Brenda Johnson, Hoglan paraeducator, effective Aug. 9, 2011.
Stephani Menuey, Woodbury paraeducator, effective Aug. 10, 2011.
Debra Nichols, MHS paraeducator, effective Aug. 8, 011.
LaRue Reis, Lenihan paraeducator, effective July 18, 2011.
Shelly Speas, Franklin paraeducator, effective Aug. 8, 2011.

Appointments

Olivia Aguilera de Rodriguez, Miller bilingual tutor. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 7 hours/day.
Melody Bennett, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 6 hours/day.
Dana Brown, Lenihan paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 6.5 hours/day.
John Catron, bus driver. Start date: Aug. 23, 2011; Salary: $9567.
Lucinda Coleman, Woodbury paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 6.5 hours/day.
Vicki Cruikshank, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 6.75 hours/day.
Kelley Dickey, MHS social studies. Ms. Dickey graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2010 with a BA degree. She completed her student teaching experience in the West Des Moines and Des Moines School Districts. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: BA Step 5, $34,261.
Naomi Doran, Woodbury paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 6.5 hours/day.
Todd Goulding, B&G mechanical maintenance (electrician). Start dateL Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: $17.50/hour (8/16/11-2/15/12), $18/hour (2/16/12-6/30/12).
Jessica Hargrave, Miller paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 7 hours/day.
Beverly “Mickey” Hovel, MLA social studies. Ms. Hovel graduated from Kaplan University in 2011 with a MA degree. She completed her student teaching experience in the Marshalltown School District.
Antonio Jaramillo, MHS custodian. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: $12.50/hour (8/16/11-2/15/12), $13/hour (2/16/12-6/30/12).
Ashley Martinez, Franklin paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 7 hours/day.
Courtney Moore, Franklin paraeducator, Start date: Aug. 22, 2011. Salary TBD, 6.75 hours/day.
Chantel Sampson, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 7 hours/day.
Gloria Stanton, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 7 hours/day.
Haley Williams, MHS paraeducator. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; Salary TBD, 7 hours/day.

New program designed to bolster literacy

A new reading program at MHS will help students receive additional instruction to improve literacy.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the Board of the Corrective Reading Series implemented during fourth quarter at MHS. The pilot program worked with 24 students and because of it’s positive results will be expanded this fall to 15 sections.

The sections will have a 15:1 student-teacher ratio. The class will be considered an elective, but students meeting criteria will be required to enter the class. Pecinovsky told the Board students will be identified if their proficiency falls below the 41st percentile on the Iowa Test of Educational Development (ITED). From there MAP scores, attendance, enrollment in other programs like ELL and a Corrective Reading placement exam will be used to determine the level of intervention required. The goal is for students to read 150 words per minute with comprehension.

MHS Dean of Students Dan Terrones and reading teacher Dr. Barb Perry began the pilot program and will continue to help with the expansion this fall.

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Board receives annual food service report

Food Service Director Vickie McVey updated the Board on the many programs and initiatives in Marshalltown Food Service.

McVey shared details of the Fresh Fruit & Veggie Program, which will bring fresh produce into elementary classrooms three times a week. This year Woodbury and Anson elementary schools participated, but in 2011-2012 all six elementary schools will benefit.

McVey says the produce is given as a snack, not part of the regular lunch or breakfast menu, and that she includes a little note with the item so students can learn nutritional facts and where it usually grows.

At the end of the school year the lunch program has a negative balance of $13,635 – a decrease of about 21 percent from this time last year. McVey said the improvement is from the Board’s stricter policy on delinquent lunch accounts enacted last year, as well as working with parents to set up payment plans for overdrawn lunch accounts.

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School meal prices to increase 10 cents

The Board approved increasing student meal costs by 10  cents for 2011-2012, the first increase in three years.

K-4 breakfast will cost $0.95 and lunch $1.95. Fifth-12 grade breakfast will cost $1 and lunch will cost $2.10.

Adult breakfast will also increase 10 cents to $1.35 and lunch will increase 20 cents to $3.

Food Service Director Vickie McVey said other districts in the Central Buying Consortium are increasing prices by 10  cents. The increase is based on higher food costs, negotiated increases in labor and other expenses.

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Bus driver salary/benefits package approved for 11-12

The Board approved the negotiated salary and benefits package for the district bus drivers Monday night.

The package includes a $20 per month increase for drivers, which equals approximately a 1.5 to 2 percent increase for each contract.

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Franklin Field Gateway exceeds fundraising goal

Fundraising for the Franklin Field Gateway project netted $146,055, well above the $130,000 goal.

Jane Bauer, a member of the fundraising committee, told the Board a quarter of the donations are from out of state and out of country and range from $10 to $7,500. Two of the largest donations included a $25,000 matching grant from the Martha Ellen Tye Foundation and $10,000 from Emerson Process Management – Fisher Division.

The project will restore the ticket booth at Franklin field and do some landscaping around the area, preserving the historical significance of the field and serving as a gateway to the neighborhood.

Plans for the project will be discussed at the June 20 Board meeting.

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Hoglan mansard, soffitt project bid accepted

The Board accepted a bid from Vis Roofing for the Hoglan Elementary mansard and soffitt repair project.

The bid came in for the amount of $134,000 which includes Base Bid + Alternate #2 (standing seam metal roofing).

On-site work will begin around June 20, with substantial completion by Aug. 12.

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New curriculum purchased for 7-12 language arts

The Board approved the purchase of a new 7-12 literacy curriculum Monday night.

“Holt McDougal Literature 2012” includes print and digital resources, featuring “well-loved literature and the most robust selection of informational text”.

The program boasts “unique audio tools” as well to assist struggling readers and English Language Learners.

The cost of the purchase is $95,374.50.

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NOTES FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening’s meeting included an initial reading of board policies and administrative regulations for student and staff dress codes. Action wasn’t taken on any of these items, though it’s anticipated they’ll be approved at the June 20 board meeting.

Since there is such interest in this topic, I believe it’s worthwhile to explain the difference between board policy and administrative regulation.

Only the school board has authority to develop and adopt board policy for a school district. A policy states the “what” and “why” for something the board wants accomplished within the district. In this instance, the intent of the student appearance policy is to minimize disruptions to the educational process and threats to health or safety. The employee conduct and appearance policy establishes an expectation that, as role models for students, staff will dress in a manner appropriate for their position.

Generally, the board delegates to district administration responsibility for developing administrative regulations for “how” the district will accomplish what the board sets out in policy. Unlike policies, regulations may be developed or changed without board action; however, our Board routinely reviews regulations to determine if they meet the spirit of and intent of board policy.

Both policies presented tonight identify the superintendent as the individual responsible for development of administrative regulations. Because Lisa Koester and I will work together on this project, either of us can be contacted via email with suggestions for the regulations.

Board review of dress code regulations will be on the agenda for both the June 20 and July 11 board meetings.

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NOTES FROM THE SCHOOL BOARD

By Jay Merryman, Board Vice President

It’s great the school year is over and we beat the heat or at least most of it. It seems as the teachers year ends the Boards duties get more intense as we prepare for the coming year with the ordering of new curriculum, approving of handbooks or start to get the final reports from the food service etc.

We took our first look at the dress code issue and I think there are many positives that can come from this. We hope we can take some of the subjectiveness off the table for the teachers and administrators and find less disruption and more time for teaching which is always our main goal. We are a lot the way we present ourselves and we hope we can reach a common goal of improving the image of Marshalltown Schools.

We had a wonderful presentation Monday night by Matt Anzis and Austin Watts and their award winning computer game they developed. It was quite entertaining and insightful to see what challenges our students are willing to go to if putting their minds to it. We often think the only way to measure success is the first to the finish line or the most baskets but we should all be proud to see what the end product is coming out of the classroom with fine young gentlemen like this. I think Dr. Wade was ready to order two copies at the end of the presentation.

Have a wonderful and relaxing summer and we look forward to next fall!

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POLICY

Initial Review

Dress Code Policies for students and staff.

First Reading

602.12/R/E1/E2/E3/E4 Acceleration, approve and waive second reading; 903.2 Public Examination of School District Records, approve and waive second reading.

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PERSONNEL

Retirements

Steven Huseboe, District electrician (B&G), effective Aug. 17, 2011; has been with MCSD for 35.5 years.

Resignations

Jerry Appel, MHS assistant boys basketball coach, effective May 23, 2011.

Robert Bachman, MHS assistant girls basketball coach, assistant 8th grade volleyball coach, effective May 23, 2011.

Kirk Brooks, assistant 8th grade girls track coach, effective May 19, 2011.

Emily Burney, Miller reading/language arts, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year.

Mark Chardoulias, assistant 7th grade football coach, effective April 21, 2011.

Kim Curry, Lenihan Grade 5 teacher, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year. Assistant MHS girls swim coach, effective May 25, 2011.

Richard Drummer, Lenihan paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Kata Erickson, Anson paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Cynthia Grimm, MHS food service, effective June 3, 2011.

Emmeline Hallam, MHS ELL teacher, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year.

Jennifer Heithoff, Woodbury Learning Supports Specialist, effective June 30, 2011.

Mike Husak, MHS assistant girls track coach, effective May 24, 2011.

Joseph Miller, Miller paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Mitchell Nims, MLA paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Ryan O’Neal, assistant 7th grade boys basketball and assistant 8th grade football coach, effective May 16, 2011.

Emily Potts, Miller paraeducator, effective June 3, 2011.

Faith Ridenour, Lenihan paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Jasmynne Sloan, Franklin paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Chad Spear, 8th grade girls basketball coach, effective May 18, 2011.

Eric Wilkening, District computer tech/auditorium assistant, effective July 13, 2011.

Appointments

John Augustine, assistant 7th grade football coach, salary: $2242.

Brittney Bensen, Franklin paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011; 6.5 hours/day; Salary to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule.

Lindsay Bornhoft, Hoglan Grade 3 teacher. Ms. Bornhoft graduated from the University of Iowa in 2011 with a BA degree. She completed her student teaching experience in the West Liberty Schools. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: BA Step 5 $34,261.

Josephine Eggers, Lenihan paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011; 6.5 hours/day; salary to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule.

Karen Hatch, Lenihan paraeducator, start date: Aug. 22, 2011; 6.5 hours/day; salary to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule.

Eric Hunerdosse, Woodbury Learning Supports Specialist. Mr. Hunerdosse graduated from Central College in 2009 with a BA degree in sociology. He completed school counseling internships at Laporte and Loveland, Colo., school districts and has been employed as an advocate intern with crisis intervention services and a youth care worker with Youth Homes of Mid-America. Start date: July 18, 2011; Salary: $35,000/year (pro-rated).

Elizabeth Moore, MHS Learning Supports Specialist. Ms. Moore graduated from New Mexico State University in 2009 with a MA degree. She is currently employed at the Iowa Department of Human Rights, Iow Collaboration of Youth Development as an AmeriCorps Member/Youth Project Coordinator and as a Family Service Worker with the Family Empowerment Services. Start date: July 1, 2011. Salary: $38,000/year.

Susan Nugent, MHS co-head cheerleading coach. Salary: $2871.

Jennifer O’Neal, MHS assistant volleyball coach. Salary: $3190.

Ryan O’Neal, MHS assistant boys basketball coach. Salary: $3668.

Ricardo Perez, Anson Bilingual Tutor. Start date: Aug. 22, 2011; 7 hours/day; salary to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule.

Rachele Seymour, MHS co-head cheerleading coach. Salary: $2871.

Chad Spear, MHS assistant boys basketball coach. Salary: $3668.

Change of Contract

Matthew Speas, MHS lead custodian. Start date: May 20, 2011. Salary: $17.10/hour (5/20/11-6/30/11).

MMS trio selected National History Day alternates

Ellen Podhajsky, Hannah Stone, and Susie Pratt

Three Miller Middle School students were named National

History Day alternates at the state contest, placing them in a position to possibly represent Iowa at the national level.

The alternate team of Ellen Podhajsky, Hannah Stone, and Susie Pratt would travel to University of Maryland at College Park June 12-16 if the national qualifying team was unable to attend. Monday night the Board approved the out of state trip.

Lacinda Gillen, Miller Extended Learning Program teacher, said the girls worked tirelessly on research and writing to create a 10-minute presentation on the role of women in the Civil War. Monday night they performed the introduction for the Board.
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Board, MEA reach contract agreement

The Board approved a total package increase of 3 percent for the Marshalltown Education Association Monday night.

The package includes $190 on the BA base salary and a $500 one-time supplemental payment (from a Federal grant) for two added professional development days added to the 2011-2012 calendar.

Next year a new teacher will be paid a minimum salary of $34,261, a $221 increase over 2010-2011.
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Acceleration policy meets the needs of advanced students

Challenging high-achieving students with rigorous, engaging learning opportunities is the goal of an acceleration policy presented to the Board Monday night.

District Extended Learning Program teachers Susan Fritzell, Lacinda Gillen, Karen Roessler and Marcia Plett told the Board about the policy developed to create a standard practice for accelerating students showing advanced knowledge beyond their chronological grade level.

Acceleration can occur for an entire grade level or just for certain courses, the teachers said, and the policy will allow teachers and parents to come together to decide what is best for these students.

“All students need to be able to know and understand what it takes to accelerate,” said Lisa Glenn, director of special services.
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CPMI named Roundhouse Project Manager

CPMI of Des Moines will serve as project manager for the renovation, refurbishing and expansion of the Marshalltown High School Roundhouse.

CPMI was recommended by the Design Advisory Committee, which includes Board members and administration. The Committee said they talked to people who have worked with the company before and they received glowing reviews.

CPMI was project manager for the Carnegie Library project in downtown Marshalltown. The City and the sub-contractors who worked with CPMI on the project told Superintendent Marvin Wade they had a very positive experience.
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Welker awarded Miller security, life safety project

Welker Construction of Marshalltown will complete the security and life safety upgrades at Miller Middle School.

The project includes new security doors, frames and hardware; new hardware on existing doors and new emergency exit lighting and lighted exit signs.

The project will cost $35,795.
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MHS student heads to forensics nationals

Freshman Abby Snyder will represent Marshalltown High School at the National Forensics Tournament June 13-18, 2011, in Dallas, Texas.

Snyder earned the privilege Saturday, April 2, at the East Iowa Forensic District Tournament in Iowa City, where she was voted the top debater in the Legislative Debate.

MHS senior James Lindgren also qualified for the tournament, but will not attend as he was recently selected for a prestigious World Food Prize internship.

The Board approved allowing Abby to travel out of state for the event.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening, as part of School Board Recognition Week, Director of Communications Jason Staker gave each board member a certificate of recognition in appreciation of their service to the students, parents and staff of MCSD.

Serving on the Board requires each board member to work hundreds of hours every year without pay; to attend many meetings and school functions; to study a large number of agendas, proposals and reports; to make difficult decisions; and to have ongoing discussions with members of our community.

I appreciate the vision, accountability and support provided by the seven members of the Marshalltown Community School District Board of Education: President Kay Beach, Vice President Jay Merryman, and Directors Richard Hessenius, Scott Lothe, Anne Paullus, Larry Schrum and Jennifer Wilson.

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

I also want to remind everyone about the Marshalltown Education Association/Board Recognition Tea that will be held from 4:00-6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 18.  I hope you will join us at Dejardin Hall on the Marshalltown Community College campus to honor retirees, MEA scholarship winners, the Friend of Education Recipient, and staff with 35 and 25 years of service.
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

The travel requests which the Board received tonight were further demonstrations of the outstanding work that some of our district’s students are doing.  Three Miller 8th graders (Ellen Podhajsky, Hannah Stone, and Susie Pratt) enacted a portion of the presentation which resulted in their being chosen as Iowa’s alternate entry in the National History Day finals at the University of Maryland in June.  These young ladies were poised, articulate, and authoritative in the delivery of their findings regarding “The Role of Women in the Civil War.”  And we also met Abby Snyder, an MHS freshman, who won the right to represent Iowa in the category of Legislative Debate in national forensics competition in Dallas this summer.  I would not want to get in an argument with this young lady!  Congratulations also to senior James Lindgren, who won the state forensics competition in Extemporaneous Speaking.  And thanks to the coaches and sponsors for nurturing the exceptional gifts of these fine young people.
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Personnel

Retirements

Janet Smith, Lenihan food service, effective June 3, 2011.

Resignations

Sarah Albaugh, Hoglan Preschool, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year.
Connie Gardalen, MHS Learning Supports Specialist, effective June 30, 2011.
Cindy Jones, MHS assistant girls basketball coach, effective April 29, 2011.
Beth McMahon, Woodbury paraeducator, effective June 6, 2011.

Appointments

Salaries to be determined by the 2010-2011 salary schedule.
Sierra Herring, MHS assistant girls basketball coach.
Erica Malloy, MHS biology teacher. Ms. Malloy graduated from Iowa State in 2004 with a BS degree and received her post-baccalaureate certification in secondary education from Buena Vista University in 2010. She completed her student teaching in the West Marshall School District. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: BA Step 5.
Bruce Vopava, assistant seventh grade volleyball coach.
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Policy

Initial Review

903.2 Public Examination of School District Records, initial review (new policy), helps clarify what records are confidential, specifically about security, emergency preparedness, etc.
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Phomvisay named next MHS principal

Aiddy Phomvisay

Aiddy Phomvisay will be the next principal at Marshalltown High School.

Mr. Phomvisay is currently associate principal at Valley High School in West Des Moines, a position he has held since 2005.

Prior to joining the administrative team at Valley, he taught ninth grade world studies and tenth grade U.S. history at Ames High School, as well as taught in an English Language Learner Sheltered Classroom. In Ames Mr. Phomvisay held many leadership roles in various training and curriculum writing teams.

He has also taught classes at Drake University and Iowa State University.

Mr. Phomvisay holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Iowa State University, where he also earned a Master of Science in Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction and Education Administration. He attended the James Madison Senior Fellowship Constitution Institute at Georgetown University and received his Certificate of Advance Studies (Superintendent License) in 2010. He is currently working toward a PhD in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

“I am honored and humbled by the opportunity to be the next principal of Marshalltown High School,” Mr. Phomvisay said. “Thank you for allowing me and my family to partner with you in the service of students, their families and the greater Marshalltown community. I look forward to meeting and working with the rest of the staff and administrative team. I will listen, learn and lead to make Marshalltown High School the very best it can be.”

Mr. Phomvisay will begin as principal July 1, 2011.
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Elementary math curriculum having positive impact on student test scores

District third and fourth grade students showed increased proficiency in math on the Iowa Test of Basic Skills this year.

Dr. Susan Pecinovsky, associate superintendent for student achievement, told the Board the increases reflected the successful implementation of the new K-6 EnVisions Math curriculum.

Pecinovsky noted there is still work to be done to improve reading comprehension scores and continue growth in math. She told the Board of several areas of focus for 2011-2012 that will improve student achievement, including common unit design (ensuring consistency across content areas), a balanced K-12 literacy framework and the use of Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports to create an inviting and safe learning environment.
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MHS plans three Summer School programs

Three different Summer School programs will run June 10-29 at Marshalltown High School, each focused on helping a specific group of students succeed.

One program will be an English Academy teaching students with limited or no English proficiency reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. This includes a real world experience component with students interacting in businesses, ordering in restaurants, etc.

The second is a credit and component recovery program to help students who previously failed a course learn the materials and earn credit without retaking the same course during the regular school year.

The third is an eighth grade transition program to help identified students entering ninth grade this fall prepare for success in high school. Students will receive academic interventions focused at removing barriers to graduation. Sessions will also include some team-building activities, health and fitness education and educational field trips. The students will remain in core classes together during the school year and the Learning Supports Specialists will track their progress. MHS Associate Principal Deb Holsapple and Special Services Director Lisa Glenn told the Board this is a pilot and parents will be able to choose whether or not their child is part of the program.

Due to construction at MHS, Summer School classes will be held at Miller Middle School.
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

Tonight’s meeting leaves me smiling with hope!  For nearly an hour we heard really positive messages about good things that have been happening in the district.  At the very beginning of the meeting we were introduced to Aiddy Phomvisay, the incoming principal at MHS who spoke briefly and eloquently about his desire to make a difference for our high school students.  Then we had a report from two members of the MHS Math Team which will be a finalist in the Greater Plains Math League Regional Championship in Kansas City later this month—young people who excel at solving complex math problems just for the fun of it!  And then Dr. Pecinovsky reported on ITBS and ITED scores.  Her interpretation gave us many reasons to believe that higher student achievement is in sight, the result of hundreds of hours of work done this year to tighten the entire K-12 curriculum and home in on strategies that will help our already well-prepared teachers work smarter and with even more focus, ensuring all of our students access to a rigorous curriculum.  We also heard about a Summer School opportunity for MHS students who have been identified as needing either credit recovery to get them on track for future graduation or some additional intensive work on English language skills—also including a session for at-risk 8th graders transitioning into high school.  The future IS bright for our students!
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening, by approving two additional teacher contract days for the 2011-2012 school year, the Board of Education made it possible for MCSD staff to participate in more professional development opportunities without pulling teachers out of the classroom. The suggestion to use Federal Education Jobs money to fund these two days was a joint proposal of the Marshalltown Education Association (MEA) and district administrators. Lisa Koester, Director of Human Resources and Student Issues, will be providing more specific information about tonight’s decision before the end of our current school year.

I also want to remind people of the MEA/Board Recognition Tea that will be held from 4:00-6:00 pm on Wednesday, May 18 in Dejardin Hall at the Marshalltown Community College campus.
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Personnel

Retirements

Patricia McColley, Bus Monitor, effective June 3, 2011, has been employed with the district for 11 years.
Kenneth Penrod, MHS custodian, effective July 6, 2011, has been employed with the district for 40 years.

Resignations

Meagan Dobbs, Fisher & Woodbury ELL teacher, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year.
Alexandria Erickson, MHS paraeducator, effective May 6, 2011.
Val Hunt, National Honor Society advisor, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year or until a suitable replacement is found.
Brian McCormick, district network specialist, effective May 6, 2011.
Samantha Slocum, MHS head cheerleading coach, effective April 19, 2011.

Appointments

Lisa Frauenholtz, Hoglan Grade 4. Ms. Frauenholtz graduated from the University of Iowa in 2010 with a BA degree. She completed her student teaching assignment in the West Des Moines School District. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: BA Step 5 (to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule).
Shawn Garrington, District Server and Security Specialist. Mr. Garrington graduated from Strayer University in 2005 with a BS degree. He has 11 years of experience at ITA Group, Inc., Principal Financial Group, Kaplan Higher Education and Nebraska College of Business as Network Analyst, Systems Analyst, Regional Field Manager and Network Manager.
Jennifer Heithoff, Woodbury Learning Supports Specialist. Ms. Heithoff graduated from Buena Vista University in 2009 with a BA degree. She has been employed as Volunteer Coordinator/Project Organizer at Mid-Iowa Community Action. Start date: May 12, 2011. Salary: $35,000/year (prorated for 35 days – $4711).
Brenda Mathews, Hoglan Grade 1. Ms. Mathews graduated from the University of Northern Iowa in 2000 with a BA degree. She has 8 1/2 years of teaching experience in San Antonio and Atascosa, Texas, and Odgen, Iowa. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: BA Step 9 (to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule).
Renee Mathews, MHS Nurse. Ms. Mathews graduated from Drake University in 2008 with a Masters in Public Administration. She has been employed for one year at the Iowa Dept. of Public Health and has nine years of previous experience as a school nurse in Marshalltown Schools. Start date: Aug. 16, 2011. Salary: MA Step 15 (to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule).
Lori Ruth, bus driver. Start date: April 13, 2011. Salary: $1825.25 (annual).
Scott Smith, MHS head boys basketball coach. Salary to be determined by the 2011-2012 salary schedule.

Change of Contract

Nicole Moore, Franklin food service. Start date: May 2, 2011. Salary: $10.11/hour, 3.75 hours/day.
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MICA receives grant to begin ‘Rogers University’ extended learning program

The 21st Century Learning Community Grant received by Mid-Iowa Community Action will kick off this summer with “Rogers University”.

MICA has worked closely with Rogers Elementary in recent years using the Harlem Children’s Zone model, focusing on creating a 21st Century school with structured after school time, increased community involvement and accountability for students, teachers and families.

The Rogers Elementary neighborhood was one of six in the state to receive one of the 5-year grants. Rogers University will be a 6-week summer program beginning June 20, 2011.

Days will reflect the regular school day in structure, but content will focus on three areas: remedial education, academic enrichment and family literacy.

Remedial work will help students meet district standards in reading and math using individualized learning plans. Sections will have a 5- to-1 student to teacher ratio.

Community partners, licensed teachers and Learning Supports Specialists will lead enrichment activities. Rogers University will fund Red Cross swimming lessons, including transportation. Participating students will also be able to utilize the Community Y Kids Fit Program, SATUCI Life Skills training, Orpheum Children’s Theatre drama education and MICA service learning. Art and science enrichment will include lessons on the rain forest. Technology lessons will include the opportunity for students to create unique personal projects.

Family literacy will be assisted by the Education and Training Center with ESL, GED and other adult education offerings.
Rogers University will be available for 100 students entering grades 1-4 in the fall. Additional funding from the Martha Ellen Tye Foundation will support a two-week mini Rogers University for 40 preschool and kindergarten age students.
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

I want to share some reflections on a task that School Board members face that I hate:  expulsion hearings. I hate listening to the details of students who repeatedly disrupt the learning of others or engage in activities that are against the law. I hate the convoluted excuses that they give for breaking both school rules and state/federal laws. I hate the thought that our children find themselves so needy for recognition, attention, or escape that they succumb to the sleaze bag who convinces them that drugs will solve all their problems.  And I hate having to decide whether or not the possible salvation of one child/violator is worth more than the safety of many. Our school district has taken a stand against drugs and against violence.  We have pledged to make our schools safe places; we have drawn a line in the sand. Expulsion is the ultimate penalty that we can assess upon those who cross that line.  I hate having to even consider it; but, in the end, the safety of 5,000 young people is worth the stomachache it gives me.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

Tonight’s presentation about Mid-Iowa Community Action receiving a 21st Century Community Learning Center grant came at an excellent time. The district continues to be concerned about the amount of time it takes at the start of every year to get student skills back to a level where they were at the end of the previous year. By keeping students engaged in educational activities during six weeks of the summer break, Rogers University should lessen the “learning loss” at the start of next school year. I look forward to having representatives from MICA and Rogers Elementary report back in the fall about their findings in this important aspect of closing the achievement gap.
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Personnel

Resignations

Marie Mysliwiec, Lenihan Special Ed. teacher, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year.
Dena Ryner, Hoglan paraeducator, effective April 1, 2011.
Andrea Schaa, Woodbury Learning Supports Specialist, effective April 15, 2011.
Monica Schneider, recording secretary, effective June 30, 2011.
Donna Stone, Miller food service, effective at the close of the 2010-2011 school year.
Clare Willsher, bus driver, effective April 12. 2011.

Appointments

Sandra Fetters, Woodbury food service. Start date: April 18, 2011. Salary: $9.35/hour, 2 hours/day ($9.55-11/15/11, $9.85-4/18/12).
William Hansen, District HVAC/Plumber Technician at B&G. Start date: May 1, 2011. Salary: $18.30/hour, 8 hours/day.
Aimee Hennigh, Franklin Kindergarten teacher. Ms. Hennigh graduated from Kansas State University with a BS degree in 2009. She completed her student teaching experience in the Manhattan, Kansas, School District. Start date: Aug. 17, 2011. Salary: BA Step 5 (TBD by 2011-2012 salary schedule).
William Preston, MHS custodian. Start date: April 18, 2011. Salary: $12.50/hour, 8 hours/day.
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High school students share State Science Fair projects

Marshalltown High School students Maddison Wignall and Molly Finn told the Board about their experiences presenting research at the State Science & Technology Fair of Iowa.

MHS Extended Learning Program teacher Susan Fritzell told the Board the students have worked all year on their research and were selected out of 100 projects to be presented in seminar. Each placed sixth in their divisions.

At the State Science Fair Wignall also was an honorable mention in the medicine and health category and Finn placed second in physics.

Wignall researched the effects of contact lens solution on the antibacterial properties of natural tears. Finn researched the effects of arm size and placement on a dancer’s pirouette turns.

Their research will be on display in MHS Room 106 during the Community Open House Thursday, April 14.
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MHS Community Night 2011

Marshalltown High Schools is once again opening its doors for Community Open House Thursday, April 14, 2011, from 1 to 7 p.m.
This is the second annual Community Open House, a chance for parents and community members to tour the school, see learning in action, and take part in a variety of activities that illustrate the wide array of services and opportunities MHS has to offer.

During the school day (1-3:30 p.m.) there will be opportunities to observe classes in session. Beginning at 4 p.m. there will be information booths from community agencies, as well as information about MHS programs like dual credit and the Healthy Kids Act. The MHS Library will also host the Scholastic Book Fair from 4 to 7 p.m.

From 4 to 7 there will also be activities throughout the building, including a school history scavenger hunt, plant sale, I-JAG bake sale, and fine arts demonstrations to name a few. The Student Senate and Bobcat Boosters will also have Bobcat gear for sale.
Tours will be available throughout the day.

All guests will be entered in a drawing to win a 2011-2012 Bobcat Activity Pass and those completing a brief survey will receive a free ticket to the Bobcat Boys Soccer home games that evening.

More details can be found at http://www.marshalltown.k12.ia.us/mhs/believe.html
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Budget approved

The Board of Education approved an $89 million budget for 2011-2012.

The budget leaves the tax rate at $17.84 per $1000 taxable valuation and is based on 0 percent allowable growth from the state legislature.
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District joins Urban Education Network as associate member

The Board approved joining the Urban Education Network as an associate member Monday night.

The UEN is comprised of the eight largest school districts in Iowa. By becoming an associate member MCSD is able to participate in lobbying efforts, attend the annual meeting, and have job alike opportunities for administrators to shadow individuals in similar roles in other large districts.
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Bids approved for MHS second floor classroom addition

Hay Construction was awarded the contract to build the second floor classroom addition at Marshalltown High School Monday night.

Hay had the lowest bid at $1.7 million. Work will begin as soon as school is out this spring.
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Bids approved for MHS west entrance landscaping work

The Board approved a project to improve the landscaping near the main entrance to Marshalltown High School.

Graff Landscaping, LLC, of Toledo was awarded the project to remove existing turf and install professional grade paving brick landscaping to three green areas at the west main entrance. Red color brick will be used to spell out MHS BOBCATS in the design.

All work is scheduled for completion before the start of school in the fall. The cost is $36,400.
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Notes from the Superintendent

By Dr. Marvin Wade, Superintendent of Schools

This evening the Board accepted an invitation for the Marshalltown Community School District to become an Associate Member of the Urban Education Network of Iowa (UEN).

Establishing this relationship with the UEN does not affect our affiliation with the Iowa Association of School Boards or School Administrators of Iowa – it merely provides us an opportunity to work more formally and closely with other districts having similar demographics and challenges.  Partnering with the eight largest school districts in the state will allow us to benefit from a shared lobby, work sessions around timely issues, and job-alike meetings with peers having comparable responsibilities in the other districts.
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Notes from the Board

By Kay Beach, Board President

It was both entertaining and encouraging to listen to MHS science students Maddison Wignall and Molly Finn as they described their Science Fair projects this evening.  These young ladies are prime examples of the opportunities that our high school students have to go above and beyond the basic scope of their classroom studies.  Their presentations were based on questions from their own inquiring minds about their own lives.  They brought science from the realm of the academic to the practical; they brought relevance to their education.  They are prime examples of what can happen when young minds are engaged in their classroom experiences.  They are members of the student body at Marshalltown High School—where it is quite possible to achieve both education and distinction!
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