EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT         

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

July 17, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on July 17, 2019 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

 

Present:       Rick Brennan, Jane Hoyman, Ed Meyer, Kathy Roethler, Scott Kibbie, Aaron 

        Dietrich

Absent:        Dan Chism            

Also Present:    Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Anesa McGregor, Tricia Reichert

 

President Hoyman called the regular meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda:   Roethler moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Items:  Brennan moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried.  

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 210.1-210.9 and 505, 505.5R1. Hanna recommended approval of the policies as presented with the change to the policy regarding the Organizational Meeting BP 210.9. The organizational meeting will be scheduled for November following the elections. Roethler moved to approve the policies as presented with the one change to 210.9. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried. Brennan moved to approve the second reading for the 505 and 505.5R1 regarding the Graduation Policy. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:. Hanna recommended the following resignation: Anna Fiene-9th Grade Volleyball (in order to accept the Assistant Varsity position). Roethler moved to approve the resignation and was seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried. Hanna also recommended the contracts and hirings as follows: Anna Fiene-Assistant Varsity Volleyball, and Volunteer Football Coaches-Tyler Bjustrom, Bruce Nelson, Jarrod Joynt. Hoyman moved to approve the contracts and hirings. Seconded by Brennan.  Motion carried.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies-211-214. The board was asked to review the policies and contact Superintendent Hanna or Secretary Chapman for any questions.

Support Staff Handbook: Roethler moved to approve the Support Staff Handbook. Meyer seconded. Motion carried.

Faculty Handbook SY20: The School Improvement Committee met with Mr. Hanna regarding the Faculty Handbook. Hoyman moved to approve the handbook and Kibbie seconded. Motion carried.

Business Procedures Handbook SY20: Hanna recommended approval of the Business Procedures Handbook. Brennan moved to approve the handbook and Meyer seconded. Motion carried.

Iowa NET High Academy: Hanna explained the alternative education program for special circumstances to the board. This is the second year of using the program. Cost is based on usage and are no upfront costs. Administration has met and will further develop handbook policies around appropriate use. Hanna recommended approval. Dietrich moved to approve the program and Meyer seconded. Motion carried.

Legislative Priorities: Priorities that were chosen last year were reviewed. The board reviewed the list supplied by Iowa Association of School Boards and chose the top five priorities for the Emmetsburg School District. The priorities chosen were School Funding Policy, Mental Health Issues, Teacher Leadership & Development, Preschool and Supplemental State Aid. 

PACH Nursing Contract: Hanna discussed the  nursing contract with the board. The district pays a flat fee. An hourly rate of $90 per hour will be assessed if we exceed the maximum time allowed. We have not exceeded the flat rate in the last two years.  Hoyman moved to approve the agreement and Roethler seconded. Motion carried. 

Appoint Secretary/Treasurer:  Roethler moved to appoint Lisa Chapman as the Board Secretary/Treasurer for the 2019/2020 Fiscal Year. Seconded by Brennan.  Motion carried. Board President Hoyman administered the oath to Lisa Chapman as Board Secretary/Treasurer.

Committee Appointments: Hanna would like to appoint committee members at this time. Brennan moved to approve the formation of the committees. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried. Committees include:

Negotiations/Finance: Brennan, Hoyman, Dietrich (7am 2nd Tuesday of month)

Facilities/Transportation: Brennan, Kibbie, Dietrich (7am 3rd Tuesday of month)

Education/Policy Development: Hoyman, Roethler, Chism (7am 1st Tuesday of month)

School Improvement Advisory (SIAC): Kibbie, Roethler, Meyer (1 in 2nd Quarter and 2 in 3rd Quarter in following a board meeting)

Emmetsburg Education Foundation: Meyer

IASB Delegate: Meyer

Palo Alto County: Brennan (Tuesdays at 8am-1 or 2 times per year)

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:09pm. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried.

 

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT                

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

August 22, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on August 22, 2019 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present:            Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Ed Meyer, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Dan Chism

Absent:             Aaron Dietrich                          

Also Present:    Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Mike Embrock, Tracie Christensen, Anesa McGregor, 

                        Jill Schany, Darca Saxton, Erika Siefken, Kelly Klaus

President Hoyman called the regular meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

Approval of Agenda:   Chism moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Roethler.  Motion carried.

Approval of Consent Items:  Brennan moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried.  

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 211-214 were presented for approval. Roethler moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Chism. Motion carried. 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Darca Saxton presented the updated Evaluation Process for teachers. The committee chose to use the state model. There were few changes to the current process. Mr. Hanna recommended the approval of this process. Chism moved to approve. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts: Roethler moved to approve the resignation from Brandi Akridge as High School Paraeducator. Hoyman seconded. Motion carried. Meyer moved to approve the following contracts and assignments: Allyson Bruhn-7th Volleyball Coach, Devin Goodchild-MS Paraeducator, BJ Buhrow-MS Paraeducator, Kari Mammen-MS Paraeducator, Brett Hansen-Middle School Assistant Football Coach, Anny Fiene and Melissa Birkey-Co 9th Grade Volleyball Coaches. Brennan seconded. Motion carried.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies 215-217,105 and 606.3. The second reading will be in September.

Athletic Department Budget: Dunlap submitted the athletic budget. Hanna informed the board that the largest expenses are uniforms. The budget was initially put together to help set up a rotation of uniforms for all sports. Continued conversations will be held regarding expenses and reported to the board. Brennan moved to approve the budget. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried.

Official Depositories: Roethler moved to approve the resolution for depositories. RESOLVED, that the Emmetsburg Community School District of Emmetsburg, Iowa in Palo Alto County approves the following list of financial institutions to be depositories of the Emmetsburg Community School’s funds in conformance with all applicable provisions of Iowa Code Chapters 452 and 453 (1983), as amended by 1984 Acts, S.F. 2220. The treasurer is hereby authorized to deposit the Emmetsburg Community School’s funds in amounts not to exceed the maximum approved for each respective financial institution as set out below:

              Laurens State Bank               Emmetsburg, IA                   $8,000,000

              Iowa Trust & Savings           Emmetsburg, IA                   $8,000,000

              Wells Fargo                          Emmetsburg, IA                   $8,000,000

CERTIFICATION, I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a resolution of the Emmetsburg Community School adopted at a meeting of said public body, duly called and held on the 22nd day of August 2019, a quorum being present, as said resolution remains of record in the minutes of said meeting, and it is now in full force and effect. Kibbie seconded. Brennan abstained (employee of one of the depositories). Roll call vote: Roethler-aye, Kibbie-aye, Chism-aye, Meyer-aye, Hoyman-aye. Nays: None. Abstain-Brennan. Motion carried. 

Fundraisers: Dunlap submitted the fundraising requests for the upcoming year. Roethler moved to approve the fundraisers and seconded by Meyer. Motion carried.

Out of State Travel: The list of out of travel was presented. February 29, 2020-HS Show Choir (South Dakota), April 2-3, 2020 FFA Livestock Judging (Oklahoma), March 19-22, 2020-HS Music Trip (Missouri), October 28-31, 2019 (Indianapolis) and March 2020-Student Council/NHS (South Dakota or Minnesota). Kibbie moved to approve the out of state travel. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried.

Open Enrollment Out: The district has received two open enrollment out applications past the due date of March 1. Due to family reasons Superintendent Hanna has recommended approval of the two open enrollments out after the deadline to attend Clayton Ridge-Iowa Virtual Academy. Meyer moved to approve the two late filings. Kibbie seconded. Motion carried.

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 5:58pm. Seconded by Chism. Motion carried.

_______________________________                           _____________________________

Board President                                                            Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT                

Work Session

Board of Education

August 22, 2019 Minutes

 

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a work session on August 22, 2019 at 6:15pm in the Library. 

 

Present:            Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Ed Meyer, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Dan Chism

Absent:             Aaron Dietrich              

Also Present:    Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Bridgette Johnson-IASB, Harry Heiligenthal-IASB

 

Harry Heiligenthal and Bridgette Johnson from Iowa Association School Boards led a workshop to set goals for the superintendent and the superintendent evaluation process for the superintendent for 2019-2020. This process will allow for Mr. Hanna to have direction in his first year. 

 

Work Session ended 8:41pm

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT                

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

September 18, 2019 Minutes

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on September 18, 2019 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present:            Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Ed Meyer, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Dan Chism

                         Aaron Dietrich (arrived at 5:48pm)

Absent:             None                           

Also Present:    Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Mike Embrock, Tracie Christensen, Anesa McGregor, 

                         Amy Thompson, Tiffany Patton, Erika Higgins, Sara Straw, Trent Teske, OPUS Choir                                     Singers, Dan Voigt, Laura Gustafson, John Zauche 

 

Jane Hoyman, President called the regular meeting to order at 5:32pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda:  Chism moved to approve the agenda with moving the Opus Singers to the beginning of the meeting. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING

Middle School Band Teacher, Mr. Zauche and Mrs. Gustafson had their OPUS students sing selections for the board. Mr. Zauche, Mrs. Gustafson and OPUS singers exited immediately following the performance.

Building Principals submitted reports for the board to read at their leisure.

 

Approval of Consent Items:  Brennan moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.  

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 108, 215-215.1E1, 216.1, 216.2, 217 and 606.3 were presented for approval.  Chism moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Roethler. Motion carried. 

TEACHING & LEARNING

Middle School Band Teacher, Mr. Zauche had his OPUS students play for the board.

Building Principals submitted reports for the board to read at their leisure.

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts: Brennan moved to approve the resignations from Renata Moore as Middle School Paraeducator and Bus Driver and April Moffitt as Cheer Sponsor that were recommended by Superintendent Hanna.  Kibbie seconded. Motion carried. Meyer moved to approve the following contracts and assignments: JaDee Gloede-7th Volleyball Coach, Mark Saxton-Volunteer Wrestling Coach, Evelin Carabali-HS Spanish and Molly Rodemeyer-7th Grade Girls Basketball Coach as recommended by Superintendent Hanna. Hoyman seconded. Motion carried. Embrock detailed the process of hiring Ms. Carabali as the HS Spanish Teacher. Ms. Carabali comes to us from Ecuador.

Dietrich arrived at 5:48pm.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies 300-302.8. The policy committee has met and discussed possible changes. The second reading will be in October.

Modified Allowable Growth-Special Education:  The negative balance for special education at the end of the 2018-19 fiscal year was $245,621.16. Meyer moved to approve the allowable growth to regain the authority of our unspent balance from the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC).  Seconded by Brennan.  Motion carried.

Early Graduation: Mr. Embrock presented three students for early graduation. The three students discussed work and continuing their post high school education. Hanna recommended early graduation approval for Mikayla Frerichs, Colten Moser and Stephanie Studer for early graduation. Dietrich moved to approve the early graduation and was seconded by Chism. Motion carried.

Take Aways from the Board: Superintendent Hanna asked the board for their take-away from the board meeting tonight that they can take from the and communicate to the public. Roethler liked seeing what the kids are doing like the performance from the OPUS singers that were here tonight. Brennan appreciated the additional work sessions with IASB, ISFIS, etc. Chism talked about being able to tell others about the district’s flexibility, specifically with working to get a Spanish teacher and working with Iowa Lakes Community College. Meyer expanded on the opportunities provided to students also referring to the process with hiring the Spanish teacher. Hoyman enjoyed hearing about the activities at the elementary and Kibbie mentioned that he felt that overall he has been more well informed.

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:02pm. Seconded by Brennan. Motion carried.

_______________________________                           _____________________________

Board President                                                            Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT                

Work Session

Board of Education

September 18, 2019 Minutes

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a work  session on September 18, 2019 at 6:14pm in the Library. 

 

Present:            Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Ed Meyer, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Dan Chism

                         Aaron Dietrich

Absent:             none                            

Also Present:    Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Larry Sigel-ISFIS, Margaret Buckton-ISFIS

Buckton and Sigel presented School Finance Basics to the board.

Work Session ended at 8:06pm.

 

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

October 16, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on October 16, 2019 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Ed Meyer, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Dan Chism

               Aaron Dietrich (arrived at 5:40pm)

Absent:  Kathy Roethler   

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Tracie Christensen, Mike Emborck (arrived 5:42pm), Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Anesa McGregor, Sara Straw, Sarah Brugman, Mike Dunlap     (arrived at 5:59pm)

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular meeting to order at 5:33pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda: Brennan moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Chism. Motion carried.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING

E-HAWK BUDDY PROGRAM-Move to another date.

Christensen-Noted that the Student of the Month process has changed. Reasons and teachers who nominated are listed again.

Hanna-West is using a new program to help with ESSA guidelines.

Embrock-Parent-Teacher Conference format has changed. Students are highly encouraged to take part.

 

Approval of Consent Items:  Brennan moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.  

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 300-302.8 were presented for approval.  Meyer moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Chism. Motion carried. 

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts: Chism moved to approve the following assignment: Charla Montag-Middle School Para-educator. Seconded by Hoyman. Motion carried. 

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 303-303.9. 

The policy committee has met and discussed possible changes. The second reading will be in November.

Apptegy Contract (website): Superintendent Hanna is recommending the approval of a contract with Apptegy to develop a new website for the district. A video presentation was presented to the board and audience regarding the new website and mobile application. Dietrich moved to approve the contract and Brennan seconded. Motion carried.

Superintendent Goals/Evaluation-Review Dates: Hanna spoke with the board about the goals that were previously prioritized and the timeline for measuring points. Hanna asked the board to approve the tools and timeline to use in the evaluation process. Kibbie moved to approve the tools and timeline. Seconded by Brennan. Motion carried.

November Board Meeting Date: The November board meeting will be November 18, 2019 at 5:30pm in the High School Library to accommodate the attendance at the Iowa Association of School Board convention as well as waiting until the final voting canvas is complete.

Palo Alto County Gaming & Development 2018 School Award: Hanna is asking the board for their approval to extend the 2018 School Award for the Family & Consumer Science room. The original report is due December 31st. Due to appliances being spent from Perkins and RPP funding and not needing the contingency funds, we are underspent. The extra time is to add additional equipment to make sure the Family Consumer Science room is career ready. Meyer moved to approve the extension and Hoyman seconded. Motion carried.

LEP Allowable Cost: The district has overspent the allowed amount of funding for English Language Learners due to the increased need for the students. In this case, the state has allowed for districts to ask for the allowable growth back. The district is requesting the maximum amount of $9,018.53. Brennan moved to approve the LEP Allowable Cost at the maximum amount $9,018.53 and seconded by Hoyman. Motion carried.

Open Enrollment: Due to late filing, space and needs for special services, Meyer moved to deny the open enrollment-in request. Seconded by Brennan. Motion carried.

Take Aways from the Board: Meyer was excited about the new website/app. Chism and Dietrich appreciated the tools for the superintendent evaluation. Kibbie liked the approach to branding. Brennan felt that the use of the committee meetings is very beneficial. Hoyman felt that the tools for the assessments and ESSA guidelines will be helpful. 

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:09pm. Seconded by Chism. Motion carried.

 

_______________________________                                   _____________________________

Board President                                                                     Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Work Session

Board of Education

October 16, 2019 Minutes

 

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a work  session on October 16, 2019 at 6:09pm in the Library. 

 

Present:            Jane Hoyman, Ed Meyer, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Dan Chism

                          Aaron Dietrich

Absent:            Kathy Roethler   

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Bryan Ruff

 

Bryan Ruff, IT Coordinator, handed out Chromebooks to replace old iPads to the board members and gave instructions on its use.

 

Work Session ended at 6:27pm.

 

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Special Meeting

Board of Education

October 29, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in special session on October 29, 2019 at 5:00pm in the Conference Room.

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Ed Meyer, Aaron Dietrich, Dan Chism, Kathy Roethler, 

Scott Kibbie (arrived at 5:05pm) 

Absent:   Rick Brennan   

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Tracie Christensen, Mike Embrock, Steve Avery-Legal Student A, Student A Family 1 & 2, Anesa McGregor

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the special meeting to order at 5:00pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda: Chism moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

CLOSED SESSION: Director Meyer moved to enter into closed session citing Section 21.5(1)(e) to discuss whether to conduct a hearing or to conduct hearings to suspend or expel a student, unless an open session is requested by the student or a parent or guardian of the student if the student is a minor. Director Dietrich seconded. Roll call vote: Meyer-aye, Dietrich-aye, Hoyman-aye, Roethler-aye, Chism-aye, Kibbie-aye. Motion carried.

 

The board exited closed session at 6:01pm. The meeting was then opened to the public.

 

DIscuss/Approve Expulsion of Student A: Superintendent Hanna recommended the expulsion of Student A citing Iowa Code 282.4 since “the presence of the student is detrimental to the best interest of the school.”  The expulsion is for the remainder of the school year. The student will have access to Apex Learning. All credits earned will be applied to the student’s record. The student’s readmission will be upon application to the Board Secretary by July 1, 2020.  The Board will then vote on readmission during the July 2020 Regular Board Meeting. Director Chism moved to approve the recommended expulsion. The motion was seconded by Director Kibbie. Roll call vote: Chism-aye, Kibbie-aye, Hoyman-aye, Meyer-aye, Dietrich-aye, Roethler-aye. Motion carried.

 

Adjourn: Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:05pm. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

__________________________________                        _________________________________

Board President                                                                Board Secretary

 

 

                                          EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Annual Meeting & Organizational Meeting

Board of Education

November 18, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on November 18, 2019 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present: Kathy Roethler, Rick Brennan, Scott Kibbie, Aaron Dietrich, Jane Hoyman, Ed Meyer

Absent:   Dan Chism   

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Tracie Christensen, Mike Embrock, Bill Huberty, 

                         Val Morton, Katy Thomsen, Amy Thompson, Darca Saxton, Sara Straw, Trent Teske, 

                         Kelly Josephson, Jill Schany, Andrea Accola-Sabin, Julie Dunlap, Erika Higgins 

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular annual meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda: Brennan moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING

West Elementary Kinder Garden Project-Kindergarten teacher Amy Thompson and one of her students, Maddie Burns, presented a slide show about the Garden Project that they participated in this fall. Many curriculum areas were used in the project including math, reading, communications and science. Financial backers of the program from its inception include the district itself, Farm Credit Services, Iowa State University Extension, Donors Choose and Palo Alto County Gaming & Development Corporation. 

Principal Reports-The reports are included in the board packet. The board was directed to read and direct any questions to the principals in their own time.

Approval of Consent Items & Annual Statements: Roethler moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Meyer. Motion carried. Superintendent Hanna highlighted some points in the Financial Health Analysis submitted for the Annual Report. Certified enrollment numbers are down. This number is used to generate funds for the general fund. Special education deficit was reviewed. Transportation expenses were also discussed. Hanna explained taxing and unspent authorized budget to the board. The district’s day’s cash net ratio is down to 74 days. Recommendation is 90 days. The district needs to be proactive in its attempts to remain positive in cash, solvency ratio and unspent balance. Dietrich moved to approve the Financial Health Analysis. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 303.1-303.9 were presented for approval with minor changes.  Roethler moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Brennan. Motion carried. 

 

Adjournment of Retiring Board: Kibbie moved to adjourn the annual meeting at 6:00pm . Seconded by Brennan. Motion carried.

 

ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

Secretary Chapman called the meeting to order at 6:04pm acknowledging a quorum. 

 

ELECTION OF PRESIDENT:  Kibbie nominated Hoyman. Huberty nominated Thomsen. Nominations ceased. Ballot votes were taken. Hoyman is President on a 5-2 vote. Chapman administered the oath of office to Hoyman. Hoyman took the chair.

ELECTION OF VICE-PRESIDENT: Hoyman nominated Kibbie. Kibbie nominated Roethler. Nominations ceased. Ballots were distributed. Roethler is Vice-President on a 5-2 vote. Chapman administered the oath of office to Roethler. 

SET DATE & TIME FOR REGULAR MONTHLY MEETINGS: Thomsen moved to approve the third Wednesday at 5:30pm in the High School Library as the regular meeting time and place.Kibbie seconded. Ayes-Morton, Huberty, Thomsen, Kibbie, Roehtler, Hoyman. Nays-Dietrich. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts: Roethler moved to approve the following resignations: Debra Walsh-Library Associate, Becky Walker-Cook, Jill Schany-NHS Advisor. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried.  Roethler moved to approve the following assignment: Tracie Christensen-Secondary Principal (SY 2020-2021). Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried. 

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading:304.1-304.2, 305-307, 502.6, 505.9. The second reading will be in December.

Gaming Grants: 

2018 Shared School Award Extension: Due to transition, the process of using the Shared School Award had not been completed by November. Superintendent Hanna asked the board for the approval of an extension to get equipment to aid in the improvement of fine arts. Equipment included wireless microphones, sound bars and related auditorium expenses. Kibbie moved to approve the extension of the Shared School Award. Dietrich seconded. Motion carried.

2018 School Award Extension: The Family & Consumer Science room renovation came in under budget. Due to this, Superintendent Hanna asked the board for approval to extend the grant long enough to purchase career and technical equipment. Thomsen moved to approve the extension and change of items. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

2019 School Award Application: Superintendent Hanna asked the board for their approval to continue to improve technology, classroom updates, career education equipment and sound equipment for the upcoming School Award. Dietrich moved to approve the 2019 School Award. Seconded by Morton. Motion carried.

2019 Shared School Award Application: Superintendent Hanna also asked the board for their approval to apply for the Shared School Award for  Fine Arts, Classroom Updates and Technology. Roethler moved to approve the application. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

Committees/Assignments: Due to the change in directors, committees needed to be re-appointed. Assignments were set as follows: Katy Thomsen-Education Policy & Development, Val Morton-Negotiations & Finance, Bill Huberty-Transportation, SIAC-Val Morton, Educational Foundation-Katy Thomsen, IASB Delegate-Bill Huberty, Palo Alto County Supervisors-Dietrich.

 

Adjournment: Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:31pm. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried.

 

____________________________________ ____________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Special Meeting

Board of Education

December 11, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District special session on December 11, 2019 at 4:30pm in the Conference Room. 

 

Present:   Bill Huberty, Scott Kibbie, Jane Hoyman, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler

Absent: Katy Thomsen, Aaron Dietrich

Also Present: Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Anesa McGregor

 

President Hoyman called the regular meeting to order at 4:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Course Enrollment: Hanna presented the board with the annual review of attendance center and course enrollment data disaggregated by race, national origin, gender and disability.  Morton moved to approve the course enrollment presentation. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 4:52pm. Hoyman seconded. Motion carried.

 

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

December 18, 2019 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on December 18, 2019 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Aaron Dietrich, Scott Kibbie, Bill Huberty, Val Morton,

Katy Thomsen

Absent:   None   

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Tracie Christensen, Mike Embrock, Tricia Reichert 

(exit 5:45pm), Mary, Eric, Thomas & Aliza Woodford (exited at 5:45pm), Sara Straw, Mike Dunlap, Anesa McGregor

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular annual meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING

World Food Prize-Aliza Woodford 

Aliza’s presentation in the World Food Prize project was chosen by Mrs. Reichert to present to the board. Aliza chose the country Liechtenstein, south of Germany and their renewable energy issues. Aliza stressed the importance of education and futuristic ideas to enable the country’s renewable resources to continue. Aliza distributed her written paper to the school board members that was submitted to the World Food Prize on the subject. Aliza traveled with Taylor Steinkamp and Mrs. Reichert to Iowa State University for the Iowa Youth Institute with the project last year. Aliza’s project advanced to the Global Youth Institute and returned this past fall to the conference. Mrs. Reichert won an award for inspiring the next generation at the conference.

 

Approval of Agenda: Morton moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

Huberty moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 304.1-307, 502.6, 505.9 were presented for approval with minor language and technical changes. Thomsen moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried. 

 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Principal Reports-Submitted for review.

Christensen-ISASP.The test is new. Hanna noted that it was more rigorous than in the past. A writing component has been added. Cannot correlate new and old reports. The testing for this school year will be in the spring. The test is aligned to the Iowa Core. The scores received in 2019 are the baseline for the future years. There are many changes that districts will learn more about as testing progresses. Biggest message is that there is more rigor and the district will need to meet the demands.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts: Huberty moved to approve the following resignation: Sean Farmer-HS Special Education Teacher and Esperanza Heman-Cook. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried. Thomsen moved to approve the following assignment: Paul Hersom-Driver. Seconded by Morton. Motion carried. 

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 400-401.4, 200.1R1, 202.4, 210.5, 210.6, 210.10, 211, 216.2, 404.R1, 711.7, 711.10, 100, 200.1, 206.4, 210.1, 215. The second reading will be in January.

 

SBRC Applications: 

Modified Allowable Growth-Dropout Prevention/At-Risk: A motion was made by Roethler and seconded by Thomsen to authorize the district’s administration to submit a request to the School Board Review Committee in the amount of $238,182 for Modified Supplemental Assistance for the purpose of the Dropout Prevention and At-Risk programs. Motion carried.

Increasing Enrollment: None

Open Enrollment Out Fall 2018: A motion was made by Morton and seconded by Huberty to authorize the district’s administration to submit a request to the School Board Review Committee in the amount of $6,736 for Open Enrollment Out 2018. Motion carried.

English Language Learners: A motion was made by Hoyman and seconded by Thomsen to authorize the district’s administration to submit a request to the School Board Review Committee in the amount of $3,076 for English Language Learners. Motion carried.

 

Pickup/Snow Plow: Quotes were submitted to replace the pickup and snow plow. Hanna and Tom Griffin explored various options. The pickup works well for travel between buildings and clearing the main parking lot. Used and new pickups were priced. Bids were received from H & N Chevrolet ($31,500) and Emmetsburg Ford ($30,965). Hanna recommended Emmetsburg Ford for a 2019 Ford 250 Regular Cab pickup at $30,965. Hanna also recommended the bid from Rooney’s Tire Center for a snow plow blade at $6,608.93. Huberty moved to approve the bids from Emmetsburg Ford and Rooney’s Tire Center and was seconded by Dietrich.  Motion carried.

 

Adjournment: Kibbie moved to adjourn at  6:14pm. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

____________________________________ ____________________________________

Board President                                             Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

January 15, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on January 15, 2020 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Aaron Dietrich, Scott Kibbie, Bill Huberty, Val Morton,

Katy Thomsen

Absent:   None   

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Tracie Christensen, Mike Embrock, Randy Olson,

Travis Hayenga, Erika Higgins, Patty Kelly, Sarah Brugman, 3rd & 4th Grade After

School STEM Camp students and parents, Anesa McGregor

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular annual meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING

3rd & 4h Grade After School STEM Program 

Randy Olson & Patty Kelly hold a STEM Program after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the school year. They have been implementing this program for the past four years. Mr. Olson had the students show the school board the games that they made on the computer by allowing them to play with the students instruction! This program has been opened up to all students. Students and parents exited. 5:50pm

 

Approval of Agenda: Morton moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

Huberty moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 100, 200.1, 200.R1, 202.4, 206.4, 210.1, 210.5, 210.6, 211, 215, 216.2, 400-401.04, 404.1R1, 711.7, 711.10 were presented for approval with minor language and technical changes. Thomsen moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Roethler. Motion carried. 

 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Principal Reports-Submitted for review. Board is to contact administration if there are questions.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:  Morton moved to approve the following resignations: Tricia Reichert-HS Science Teacher and Darci Conner-HS/MS Art. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried. Hoyman and the entire board thanked Mrs. Reichert and Ms. Conner for their dedicated service to the district. Roethler moved to approve the following assignments: Halie Cody-MS Paraeducator, Diane Brennan-Library Associate (previously At-Risk Paraeducator at West Elementary), Sophia Behr-MS Paraeducator and Amber Christensen-MS & Elementary Paraeducator. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried. 

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 401.05, 401.5R1, 401.07-401.11. A first reading was held to rescind 401.06 Transporting of Students by Employees. This policy had been deleted by IASB as it duplicates another policy in the 900 series. A first reading was also held to approve a new 401.06 Limitations to Employment References. The second readings will be in February.

Iowa Local Government Risk Pool: Dietrich moved to approve the 28E Agreement with the Iowa Local Government Risk Pool Commission. Entering this pool allows the district to mitigate budget risks associated with winter heating and other natural gas consumption to enter into contractual arrangements with private parties to access natural gas for the benefit of the participating public agencies. Morton seconded the motion. Motion carried.

 

February Meeting & State Wrestling: The February meeting will be February 26, 2020 at 5:30pm with a Finance Workshop following. The change is due to State Wrestling and the Iowa School Finance Consortium.

 

Adjournment: Kibbie moved to adjourn at  6:10pm. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

____________________________________ ____________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

Board of Education

February 24, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in regular session on February 24, 2020 at 5:30pm in the Library. 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Kathy Roethler, Scott Kibbie, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Katy Thomsen

Absent:   Aaron Dietrich  

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Tracie Christensen, Mike Embrock, Sara Straw, Erika

Higgins, Danielle Auten, Anesa McGregor, Brett Hansen, Darca, Saxton,  Emma 

Auten, Dylan Fiene, Maysen Theesfeld, Mike Dunlap

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular annual meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING

Maker Space

Mr. Brett Hansen and Mrs. Darca Saxton were on hand with Dylan Fiene, Emma Auten and Maysen Theesfeld to demonstrate activities with Maker Space. Maker Space started in 2017 with ideas from students that has snowballed into what is now called Maker Space or Library Lab. Maker Space is a hands on place for students to invent, design, imagine without grading and fear of failure. Maker Space came to fruition with funding from the gaming grant and donations by patrons. The students took the board members through some of the activities so they could better understand what the students are doing in the Maker Space. Hansen, Saxton, Auten, Fiene and Theesfeld exited at 5:51pm.

 

Approval of Agenda: Morton moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

Huberty moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 401.05, 401.05R1, 401.07-401.11 were presented for approval with minor language and technical changes. It was moved to rescind 401.06 Transporting of Students by Employees by Huberty and seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried. 401.06 Limitations to Employment References was moved to be approved by Thomsen and seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried. 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Principal Reports-Submitted for review. Board is to contact administration if there are questions.

Christensen reviewed the results of the new system of accountability, Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Middle School has experienced an 8 point increase. If designated today, they would not be considered a Targeted School. Funding continues and the plans continue to move forward.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:  Roethler moved to approve the following resignation: Judy Janssen-MS Paraprofessional. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried. Hoyman thanked Janssen for her service from the entire board. Thomsen moved to approve the following assignments: Jadyn Schutjer-NHS Advisor, Joyce Froisland and Dorie Waldschmidt-from Substitute Cook to Full Time Cook for FY21 and transfers of Dan Hewitt from Elem-MS Art to Secondary Art and Chad Francis from MS Science to Secondary Science. Also approved were adjustments for the Transportation Department as follows: Tom Griffin-$7,500 stipend for FY20 as Director and $1.00 per hour added for Julie Bird and Kent Kerber for their additional transportation duties. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried. 

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 402-01-402.3R1,  507.08-507.8E1. The second readings will be in March.

FY19 Audit Review: Huberty moved to approve the review of the FY19 audit. There were two concerns in compliance which were segregation of duties and the negative book balance of the Nutrition Fund. Segregation of duties is commonplace for small schools though we always look for ways to improve internal controls. It was explained to the board that the Nutrition Fund spent more cash last year than the year before, but we did end with a positive cash balance. The book balance became negative with the GASB 68 regulations requiring the IPERS future liability that must be considered. Morton seconded. Motion carried.

 

Budget Guarantee: Hanna explained the reason for the budget guarantee. RESOLVED, tha the Board of Directors of Emmetsburg Community School District will levy property taxes for fiscal year 2020-2021 for the regular program budget adjustments as allowed under section 257.14, Code of Iowa. Morton moved to approve the resolution and Thomsen seconded. Roll call vote: Morton-aye, Thomsen-aye, Huberty-aye, Kibbie-aye, Roethler-aye, Hoyman-aye. Motion carried.

 

Bus Lease: Hanna reviewed leases for buses. Huberty moved to approve leases through Hoglund Bus Company for 2 International Buses. Lease totals are as follows: Bus with lift is $99,602 and bus without lift is $95,500. The leases are 3 years with 2.55% interest. These leases also include a 5 year extended warranty. Kibbie seconded. Motion carried.

 

Middle School Baseball/Softball: The Little League Board has approached the district asking the district to take over 7th and 8th grade softball and baseball teams. Athletic Director Dunlap reported that currently there are 7 of the 12 schools in the Twin Lakes Conference that sponsor 7th & 8th grade softball/baseball. The games will be double headers with one game of 7th grade and one of 8th grade. The games will be at 10:00am. Five dates have been scheduled at this time and will be kept in June. There will be a 15-20 game schedule when all games eventually get scheduled. First year costs are estimated at $9,600. Each year thereafter is estimated at $6,000. The district will not have the expense that was incurred in the past to help the Little League with coaching stipends. Thomsen moved to approve the district taking over the 7/8 baseball and softball programs. Roethler seconded. Thomsen-aye, Morton-aye, Huberty-aye, Roethler-aye, Hoyman-aye, Kibbie-nay. Motion carried.

 

EXEMPT SESSION: Morton moved to enter exempt session at 6:55pm for negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation or the deliberative process of arbitration. Thomsen seconded. Motion carried.

Exit exempt session at 9:01pm.

 

Adjournment: Kibbie moved to adjourn at  9:01pm. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

______________________________________ ___________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting & Budget Hearing

Board of Education

March 25, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a regular session on March 25, 2020 at 5:30pm in the HS Conference Room. The Zoom technology and social distancing was used because of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Scott Kibbie, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Katy Thomsen

(all by Zoom), Aaron Dietrich (in person) 

Absent:   None  

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular annual meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

BUDGET HEARING

An area was set up in the Auditorium (Door 4) entrance for the public to watch the budget hearing and meeting via Zoom. Patrons were able to communicate with Zoom as well. The separate area and messaging methods were used to help enforce social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr. Hanna gave a presentation on the Certified Annual Budget for fiscal year 2021. Specific areas addressed included the Unspent Budget Authority, revenue v. expenditures, the solvency ratio, enrollment, special education funding, the budget guarantee, tax rate history and the calculations impacting the tax rate. The proposed tax rate is $12.53. It is expected that the final rate will come in slightly lower. This is due to updated formulas at the Department of Management. The final rate will not be higher than $12.53.

Kibbie asked about future revenues due to the COVID-19. Most of this is unknown at this time. Changes are happening daily.  Hanna is following the information coming from the state as it comes out.

There were no patrons for comments.

Hearing was finished at 6:03pm.

 

REGULAR MEETING

Approval of Agenda:  Dietrich moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

Thomsen moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 402.1, 402.2, 402.2R1, 402.3, 402.3E1, 402.3R1, 507.8, 507.8E1 and 507.8R1 were presented for approval. Morton moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Principal Reports-Principals did not have reports for this month. Watch in April for combined reports.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:  Kibbie moved to approve the following resignations: Kory Kuecker-HS Vocational Agriculture & FFA Advisor and Trent Teske-HS Vocal & Show Choir Director. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried. Kibbie moved to approve the following assignments: Madison Johnson-MS Science, Tyler Bjustrom-Elementary Principal, Tiffany Tomlin-HS Vocational Agriculture & FFA Adviser. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried. Morton moved to table Erika Higgins-MS Softball and Scott Higgins-7th Grade Girls Track due to uncertainty of playing the respective sports. Thomsen seconded. Motion carried.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 412.1, 412.2, 413.1-413.5.  The second readings will be in April.

Budget Approval: The budget was presented during the hearing at the beginning of the meeting. Mr. Hanna is recommending the approval of the budget. Thomsen moved to approve the FY21 budget. Huberty seconded. Motion carried.

Selection of Audit Firm: Roethler moved to approve Schnurr & Co as the audit firm for the next three years. Dietrich seconded. Motion carried.

 

Non-Certified Pay Resolution:.

Pandemic Response and Emergency Suspension of Policy

Emmetsburg Community School District Board of Directors

Resolution – Pandemic Response and Emergency

 

Suspension of Policy

Hoyman moved to approve the following resolution and seconded by Roethler . 

WHEREAS, Iowa Code Ch. 279.8 authorizes local school boards to govern their respective

districts, including adopting policies for their own governance; and

WHEREAS the Board may, by formal, action suspend or rescind board policy as deemed

necessary, appropriate or in the best interests of the District; and

WHEREAS, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a

pandemic; and

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared a national state of

emergency and on March 15, 2020, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds recommended closure of all

public and private K-12 schools in Iowa until April 13, 2020, to contain the spread of

COVID-19; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds declared a State of Public

Health Disaster Emergency under the authority granted through Iowa Constitution, Art. IV, §§ 1,

8 and Iowa Code §§ 29C.6(1), 135.140(6), and 135.144 and directed implementation of the

Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s Iowa Emergency

Response Plan in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19); and

WHEREAS, most hourly non-exempt employees will be unable to report to work due to the

District’s closure and certified contract employees may be asked to work at remote locations

to help provide continuity in educational services; and

WHEREAS, it fulfills a public purpose to continue to pay District hourly non-exempt employees

during this closure to prevent or contain the spread of COVID-19, to promote morale and to

help retain current employees following the closure; and

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, the Iowa Legislature passed and the Governor signed SF 2408

granting waiver of the instructional time requirements in Iowa Code Ch. 279.10 for all public

school districts closing before April 12, 2020, in order to prevent or contain the spread of

COVID-19; and granting Governor Reynolds the ability to waive instructional time requirements

for any public school district which closes on or after April 12, 2020, to prevent or contain the

spread of COVID-19; and

WHEREAS, the Iowa Department of Education, which has the authority to establish and

interpret graduation requirements, and to oversee other crucial aspects of public education is

providing written guidance to Iowa school districts on issues related to COVID -19, including

but not limited to student attendance, distance/online learning, high school credit, meal

distribution, and other issues; and

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Emmetsburg Community School Board

hereby suspends provisions of its board policies and/or whole policies, as identified by the

District Superintendent or designee, if such suspension is necessary to implement written

guidance from state or federal agencies relating to containing COVID-19 for the duration

identified in the Governor’s State of Public Health Emergency declaration of March 17, 2020, or

as otherwise determined by the Board.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the District Superintendent will consult with and report to

the Board as feasible and appropriate regarding the emergency closure and efforts to

implement written guidance from health and government agencies.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the District Superintendent is authorized to close any school

facility without further action by the Board of Directors. Such closure shall continue during the

emergency created by the COVID-19 pandemic until such time as the Superintendent, in

consultation with appropriate health and government authorities, deems it in the best interests

of the District and its students to open schools.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the District Superintendent is authorized, based upon the

needs of the District and guidance from health and government agencies, to direct staff

assignments during District closures, including but not limited to essential employees who

must report to work, employees who may be reassigned, and employees whose services are

not needed.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that access to public school grounds and public school

buildings of the District may be limited as directed by the Superintendent during District

closures.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified, exempt employees will remain employed during

the school closure and until the number of days expressed on the contract have been fulfilled,

unless otherwise approved by the Board. Days that contracted employees do not report for

duty onsite or from a remote location, due to closure, do not constitute a fulfilled contract day

except to the extent those days are forgiven by the District.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in light of this District-wide emergency closure, the Board

authorizes the Superintendent to place hourly non-exempt employees on paid administrative

leave and to continue to pay them for up to four weeks during the period of school closure, and

the Board shall reevaluate this authority for any school closure lasting longer than four weeks.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in the interest of public health and/or to comply with federal

or state health department recommendations or guidance, the Board may limit the number of

people who can physically attend Board meetings and may, instead, encourage the public to

attend or listen to its open public meetings by video conference and or live streaming on the

the internet and the Board may also limit public comment to written comments.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the board reserves the right to adjust board meeting dates,

times, and locations during the district-wide emergency closure in a manner consistent with

the Open Meetings law, and notes that any or all board members may attend board meetings

electronically as permitted by law.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that execution of this Resolution is conclusive evidence of the

Board’s approval of this action and of the authority granted herein. The Board warrants that it

has, and at the time of this action had, full power and lawful authority to adopt this instrument.

This resolution will remain in full force and effect until it is rescinded or amended by

subsequent action of the Board. Roll call vote: Hoyman-aye, Roethler-aye, Kibbie-aye, Morton-aye, 

Huberty-aye, Dietrich-aye, Thomsen-aye. Nay-none. Motion carried.

Adopted and approved this 25th day of March, 2020.

 

By: ________________________________________

Board President or Designee-Darren Hanna

 

Attest: ________________________________________

Board Secretary-Lisa Chapman

 

Hoyman mentioned to the board that the hospital is looking for blood donors. Donors must be 17 years old or 16 years old with parent’s consent.

 

Hanna is talking with the teacher’s association in regards to negotiations. When an initial meeting is set, it will be posted.

 

Adjournment:  Kibbie moved to adjourn at  6:34pm. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

______________________________________      ___________________________________

Board President                                                      Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting 

Board of Education

April 15, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a regular session on April 15, 2020 at 5:30pm in the HS Conference Room. The Zoom technology and social distancing were used because of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Katy Thomsen

Aaron Dietrich, Katy Thomsen (all by Zoom),

Absent:   Scott Kibbie  

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Jeff Herzberg-AEA Chief Administrator (by Zoom), 

Sue Brown-AEA Board President (by Zoom) 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

TEACHING & LEARNING: Jeff Herzberg-AEA Chief Administrator and Sue Brown-AEA Board President informed the board of who they are and what they do. Some of the services provided include English Language Learners, Physical Therapy, Speech Services, Special Education Consulting and much more. The Prairie Lakes AEA serves 14 counties, 39 public schools, 11 non-public schools and 32,000 students. The main goals of the AEA include getting better at what they do and future readiness.

(Brown & Herzberg exited at 5:44pm)

 

REGULAR MEETING

Approval of Agenda:  Thomsen moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

Roethler moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Morton. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 412.1, 412.2, 413.1-413.5 were presented for approval. Thomsen moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried.

 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Voluntary Continuous Learning Opportunities Plan-Mr. Hanna informed the board of the continuous learning plans that our staff is using. He stressed that we are doing more than the minimum. Staff are sending content information. Thomsen felt that as a parent, the delivery of the material for the students was great and commended the teachers for the process they have created. Staff has asked about using some of the same processes in the summer.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:  Thomsen moved to approve the following resignations: Diana Berkland-Cook, Evelin Gracia-Carabali-HS Spanish, Tyler Beving-MS/HS Physical Education/Health & Freshmen Football & HS Boys Track, Dawn Beving-Elementary Para-educator, Matt Stein-HS Science, Molly Rodemeyer-7th Grade Girls Basketball and Jeannie Shimon-Elementary Special Education Teacher. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried. Huberty moved to approve the following contracts: Tim Rodemeyer-Secondary Assistant Principal/At-Risk Coordinator, Brandt Roskens-HS Vocal & Show Choir and Whitney Bjustrom-Elementary Art. Dietrich seconded. Motion carried.

MS Softball & 7th Grade Girls Track: Morton brought the contracts off the table. Hanna said that he will know more about what will happen with school moving forward as well as sports by Friday. He would not recommend a decision until after hearing the outcome. Morton moved to table this again and was seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 414.1-414.3R2 & 412.3.  The second readings will be in May.

Graduate List: The list of the seniors was presented to the board. Hanna recommended approval of the list of graduating seniors pending final requirements being met and decisions with the school year being decided. The state has given the districts authority to decide graduation requirements. The Governor has waived the government class content requirement. The number of quarters for physical education was also waived. The CPR requirement was also waived by the state. More information will be learned on Friday. Roethler moved to approve the list of seniors. Morton seconded. Motion carried.

Public Hearing on 2020-2021 Academic Calendar: Superintendent Hanna presented the proposed academic calendar for the 2020-2021 school year. There were no patrons on hand for the public hearing. (an area was set up at Door 4 to watch and attend the public hearing) Board Secretary Chapman did not receive any comments or concerns prior to the meeting. August 24th was proposed as the first day of school and May 25 was proposed as the last day. Hanna described the number of days and hours and breaks and why they were set up as they are proposed. The District Leadership Team approved of the calendar. 

 

2020-2021 Academic Calendar

Hanna recommended the approval of the 2020-2021 academic calendar. Dietrich moved to approve and Thomsen seconded the motion to approve the calendar. Motion carried.

 

AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2020-2021: The board was presented with the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2020-2021 for food bids (Martin Bros.), small wares (to be determined) and ware wash bids (Martin Bros). Using the consortium meets procurement requirements and offers low prices to school districts. Huberty moved to approve the agreement for FY21. Roethler seconded. Motion carried.

 

COVID-19 Pandemic Temporary Supplemental Policy: The information in this policy will be distributed to staff.

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT COVID-19 Pandemic Temporary Supplemental Policy Provisions Families First Coronavirus Response Act ("FFCRA") Effective Date: April 1, 2020

NOTE: This Policy involves a rapidly evolving public health emergency. The District will continue to reassess this policy as the public health emergency and the law evolves. The District reserves the right to amend or revise this policy at any time. 

1. PURPOSE. The purpose of this temporary and supplement policy is to protect students, employees, and community members; to establish a consistent approach to an infectious disease which is potentially impactful to the quality and timeliness of services provided by the District; and to provide a way to disseminate information to employees and answer questions or concerns. 

This is a working document that may be updated as information is released, or if additional legislation is passed by the federal and state government. The District will strive to follow all guidelines put in place by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH), and the County Department of Public Health. 

2. COVID-19. COVID-19, or coronavirus, is a respiratory illness for which no vaccine currently exists and people do not possess immunities from previous exposure/infection. The incubation period for COVID-19 is estimated to be approximately 14 days. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic. Because of the possibility of person-to-person transmission, it is important that employees stay a minimum of six (6) feet away from persons with whom they are interacting and refrain from handshakes and other forms of human touching. Common areas such as computers, mice, public countertops, chairs, tables, doors, knobs, light switches, restroom sinks and toilet handles, manual soap and sanitizer dispensers should be regularly wiped down with disinfectant. Employees using these items should wash their hands or use sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol following the contact. 

3. DISTRICT RESPONSE TO PANDEMIC. In response to the pandemic, the District has temporarily closed all buildings. Some employees have been deemed essential employees required to report to work at their designated building site, including, but not necessarily limited to [name employees required to report to work, e.g. custodial staff required to sanitize buildings]. Other employees may be directed to work remotely. In some instances, these employees may be required to work overtime or otherwise adjust their regular schedules to assist during this crisis. All employees performing work during this temporary closure will be compensated pursuant to their individual contracts or letters of assignment, applicable collective bargaining agreements, Board policy, and/or state and federal law. 

The District may modify work schedules as follows: (1) work from home entirely; (2) work partially from home and work partially at their worksite; (3) work staggered shifts either on a full-time or part-time basis; or (4) adjusted or otherwise reduced hours. 

Any employee working from home will be required to comply with all applicable District policies and procedures, including but not limited to the Acceptable Use of Technology Policy (Board Policy No. 605.6), Student Records/FERPA (Policy No. 506.1E8), and District policies and procedures for reporting and using available leave. 

During this time, if you are reporting to work or working from home, you may be asked to perform tasks that are not normal for your job description. Changes in your job duties, including the direction to work remotely (if applicable), are temporary in nature and do not constitute permanent changes to the essential functions of your job or other District policies or procedures. These changes do not set precedent for future requests for leave, remote work, or other accommodations. 

The District will periodically re-evaluate this situation and workplace attendance and leave policies.

4. EMERGENCY PAID SICK LEAVE: Pursuant to the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, a federal law passed on March 18, 2020, and effective April 1, 2020, the District will provide paid sick leave for employees who meet the following criteria: 

1. A federal, state, or local quarantine or isolation order related to COVID-19. 

2. The employee has been advised by a healthcare provider to self-quarantine due concerns related to COVID-19. 

3. The employee is experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 and seeking a medical diagnosis. 

4. The employee is caring for an individual who is subject to (1) a federal, state, or local quarantine or isolation order related to COVID-19; or (2) advice by a healthcare provider to self-quarantine due to concerns related to COVID-19. 

5. The employee is caring for a son or daughter (under age eighteen (18)) of the employee if the school or place of care of the son or daughter has closed or the child care provider of such son or daughter is unavailable due to COVID-19 precautions. 

6. The employee is experiencing any other substantially similar condition specified by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury and the Department of Labor. 

Employees meeting one of these criteria shall report their desire to take this leave to their direct supervisor and the Office of Human Resources [or Business Office]. At this time employees shall not be required to provide an FMLA certification for this leave but may be required to provide proof of the need for such leave, which may include through a quarantine or isolation order or proof that their child’s school/childcare has closed. 

If an employee needs leave for one of these COVID-19 related reasons prior to April 1, 2020, the employee may use any source of existing, accrued leaves. If the employee does not have any accrued paid leave, they may take the leave unpaid.

Beginning April 1, 2020, employees shall be entitled to paid leave in the following amounts: 

• For full-time employees, 80 hours. 

• For part-time employees, a number of hours equal to the number of hours that such employee works on average, over a two-week period. 

• There are caps on the amount of money an employee taking this leave may be compensated. The District will enforce these legally required caps. 

This 80 hours of paid leave for full-time employees, or two-week equivalent of pay for part-time employees, is a separate source of paid leave required by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. During this time, the District will not deduct from other categories of accrued leave, and employees will be paid in accordance with the legally required amounts and caps. 

• For employees absent for reasons (1), (2) or (3) above, they shall receive 100% of their pay with a daily cap of $511 per day or an aggregate of $5,110 over the two-week period. 

• For employees absent for reasons (4), (5) or (6) above, they shall receive two-thirds (2/3) of their regular pay with a daily cap of $200 per day or an aggregate of $2,000 over the two-week period. 

• If the rate of pay described above is less than the employee’s regular rate of pay, the employee may use other available leave, if any, to supplement the difference between the payments described above and their regular rate of pay. 

If employees exhaust this two weeks of pay and cannot return to work and their absence is related to reasons (1), (2), (3), (4), and (6), the employee may be paid through the use of any applicable accrued leave. If employees exhaust this two weeks of pay and cannot return to work and their absence is related to reason (5) above and they have been employed for at least thirty (30) days, the employee is entitled to additional leave as described below in the EMERGENCY EXPANDED FMLA section. 

The District will allow employees who are requesting this Emergency Paid Leave Sick Leave for school or childcare closures or unavailability to use the leave on an intermittent basis. For example, for an employee requesting this leave for school or childcare closure or unavailability who is able to work part-time due to other individuals being able to care for the child(ren), that employee shall be able to use their hours intermittently for any leave experienced until the hours they are entitled to are exhausted. However, the employee shall work with the District to schedule the intermittent leave to minimize the impact on the District’s business operations as much as practicable. 

Employees seeking to use this Emergency Paid Sick Leave for any other reason other than school or childcare closure or unavailability are not permitted to use this leave on an intermittent basis. 

5. EMERGENCY EXPANDED FMLA: Through the passage of the Families First Coronavirus Relief Act, the federal government temporarily expanded the FMLA to include a new qualifying reason for FMLA leave related to the public health emergency. A qualifying need related to a public health emergency means that the employee is unable to work (or telework) due to a need for leave to care for the son or daughter under 18 years of age of such employee if the school or place of care has been closed, or the child care provider of such son or daughter is unavailable, due to a public health emergency. 

In addition to the District’s FMLA policy already in place, the following guidelines apply to this new qualifying reason: 

• The only eligibility requirement for employees to be eligible for this leave is that the employee has been employed for thirty (30) calendar days prior taking the leave. 

• The employee shall be paid for this leave as follows: 

o Employees will be paid two-thirds (2/3) of the employee’s regular rate of 

pay (as determined by Section 7(e) of the FLSA). o For employees whose schedules vary from week to week, the employee will be paid two-thirds of their regular rate of pay for those hours that the employee would have worked if the leave was not necessary. If the hours the employee would have normally worked are not apparent, the hours the employee should be compensated for will be calculated as follows: 

▪ A number equal to the average number of hours that the employee was scheduled per day over the 6-month period ending on the date on which the employee takes such leave, including hours for which the employee took leave of any type. 

▪ If the employee did not work over the 6-month period, the reasonable expectation of the employee at the time of hiring of the average number of hours per day that the employee would normally be scheduled to work. 

• Under no circumstances will an employee be compensated more than $200/day or $10,000 in the aggregate for this leave. 

• If the rate of pay described above is less than the employee’s regular rate of pay, the employee may use other available leave, if any, to supplement the difference between the payments described above and their regular rate of pay. 

Employee’s medical benefits will be maintained during an FMLA Expansion leave. 

Requests for FMLA Expansion leave should be made directly to the Human Resources department as soon as reasonably possible. 

During the 12 workweeks of approved FMLA Expansion leave, employees are entitled to be reinstated to their same job or to an equivalent position with the same pay, benefits and working conditions, as provided by law.

6. ILLNESS REPORTING: Do Not Enter any District facility or perform any in-person job functions for the District, regardless of location, if: 

o You are experiencing any of the following flu-like/respiratory symptoms, 

▪ Fever – over 100 degrees Fahrenheit 

▪ Coughing 

▪ Sneezing 

▪ Shortness of Breath 

▪ Any other flu-like symptom. Uncommon symptoms of COVID-19 include diarrhea, nausea, and fatigue. `▪ YOU MAY NOT RETURN TO WORK UNTIL THE LATER OF THE FOLLOWING: (1) seven (7) days from the onset symptoms; (2) fever free for seventy-two (72) hours without any fever reducing medication. o Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and/or tested positive for COVID-19. 

o Been around someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or tested positive for COVID-19. This includes living in the same household or spending time within six (6) feet of someone who has been diagnosed with COVID-19 or tested positive for COVID- 19. 

Employees experiencing any of the above should report it immediately. Employees should call their supervisor to report these conditions. 

7. HIGH RISK EMPLOYEES: If you are someone who is at “higher risk” for becoming ill from the virus (pursuant to the CDC’s guidance, see: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/specific-groups/high-risk-com…), please feel free to communicate that to the Director of Human Resources [or the District administrator who handles FMLA requests]. The information you provide will be kept strictly confidential in your medical file and will be used solely for the purposes of determining your potential need for a leave of absence or for modifications to your work schedule and/or work environment during the pandemic. 

The District will assess situations with high-risk employees on a case-by-case basis. In the event an employee is high risk and unable to report to work, the employee will either be allowed to work from home if practicable or be excused from reporting to work and receive two-thirds of their normal salary as described under the non-essential employees who are not required to work from home in this policy. If a doctor recommends the employee self-quarantine due to underlying health conditions, the employee will receive 100% of their normal salary for up to eighty (80) hours and then may use any applicable leave thereafter. 

8. TRAVEL: As of the date of this policy all employees who travel as defined by this policy will be subject to the following requirements: 

For purposes of this policy, "Travel" is defined as follows: 

• Non-essential: (1) traveling to any location outside of a fifty (50) mile radius of the District or (2) attending a gathering of more than ten (10) people regardless of the location. 

• Essential: (1) necessary travel that does not meet the definition of non-essential travel. The District will authorize essential travel on a case by case basis. 

All District-related Non-Essential Travel as defined by this policy is suspended without prior approval of the Superintendent or her/his designee (i.e. conferences or non-essential meetings.) Any employee who engages in Non-essential Travel pursuant to this policy shall report their plans to travel (or if already traveling as of the date of this policy, their return plans from travel) to their direct supervisor. These reports shall be made via phone or e-mail rather than in person to minimize contacts and limit person-to-person exposure. 

For anyone engaged in Non-essential Travel as defined by this policy and planning to return to work, you will be required to self-isolate away from work for fourteen (14) days. You will only be allowed to return to work if symptom and fever free (without the use of fever-reducing medications such as Tylenol) as defined by the CDC guidelines. You are required to use vacation, personal leave and sick leave during this time and in that order to be compensated for your normal working hours. If, after April 1, 2020, you need leave relating to reasons (1) through (6) outlined above, the employee may be eligible for Emergency Paid Sick Leave and Emergency Expanded FMLA Leave. 

9. MEETINGS: Except for school board meetings, which may be held in person or electronically as determined by the Board, no group meetings shall be held in-person for the duration of this policy without prior approval from the Superintendent or her/his designee. All meetings shall be held electronically or over the phone. This includes meetings required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (“IDEA”) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Employees with questions about scheduling IEP or 504 meetings should contact the District’s special education director and/or 504 coordinator. Any approved in-person meetings shall only include internal staff unless the Superintendent or her/his has approved the presence of others prior to the meeting. 

10. STAFF UPDATES: The Superintendent or her/his designee shall update all staff on developments throughout this time period. 

11. POLICY: The leave authorized by this policy shall expire on December 31, 2020 and no leave shall be carried forward to 2021. 

 

 Morton moved to approve this policy and was seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

RESOLUTION EMERGENCY RESPONSE PANDEMIC POLICY SUSPENSION: (this resolution was updated and revised from the March 25, 2020 meeting)

Pandemic Response and Emergency Suspension of Policy 

Emmetsburg Community School District Board of Directors Resolution – Pandemic Response and Emergency Suspension of Policy WHEREAS, Iowa Code Ch. 279.8 authorizes local school boards to govern their respective districts, including adopting policies for their own governance; and 

WHEREAS the Board may, by formal, action suspend or rescind board policy as deemed necessary, appropriate or in the best interests of the District; and 

WHEREAS, on March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization characterized COVID-19 as a pandemic; and 

WHEREAS, on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared a national state of emergency and on March 15, 2020, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds recommended closure of all public and private K-12 schools in Iowa until April 13, 2020, to contain the spread of COVID-19; and 

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds declared a State of Public Health Disaster Emergency under the authority granted through Iowa Constitution, Art. IV, §§ 1, 8 and Iowa Code §§ 29C.6(1), 135.140(6), and 135.144 and directed implementation of the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management’s Iowa Emergency Response Plan in response to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19); and 

WHEREAS, most hourly non-exempt employees will be unable to report to work due to the District’s closure and certified contract employees may be asked to work at remote locations to help provide continuity in educational services; and 

WHEREAS, it fulfills a public purpose to continue to pay District hourly non-exempt employees during this closure to prevent or contain the spread of COVID-19, to promote morale and to help retain current employees following the closure; and 

WHEREAS, on March 17, 2020, the Iowa Legislature passed and the Governor signed SF 2408 granting waiver of the instructional time requirements in Iowa Code Ch. 279.10 for all public school districts closing before April 12, 2020, in order to prevent or contain the spread of COVID-19; and granting Governor Reynolds the ability to waive instructional time requirements for any public school district which closes on or after April 12, 2020, to prevent or contain the spread of COVID-19; and 

WHEREAS, the Iowa Department of Education, which has the authority to establish and interpret graduation requirements, and to oversee other crucial aspects of public education is providing written guidance to Iowa school districts on issues related to COVID -19, including but not limited to student attendance, distance/online learning, high school credit, meal distribution, and other issues; and 

NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Emmetsburg Community School Board hereby suspends provisions of its board policies and/or whole policies, as identified by the District Superintendent or designee, if such suspension is necessary to implement written guidance from state or federal agencies relating to containing COVID-19 for the duration identified in the Governor’s State of Public Health Emergency declaration of March 17, 2020, or as otherwise determined by the Board. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the District Superintendent will consult with and report to the Board as feasible and appropriate regarding the emergency closure and efforts to implement written guidance from health and government agencies. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the District Superintendent is authorized to close any school facility without further action by the Board of Directors. Such closure shall continue during the emergency created by the COVID-19 pandemic until such time as the Superintendent, in consultation with appropriate health and government authorities, deems it in the best interests of the District and its students to open schools. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the District Superintendent is authorized, based upon the needs of the District and guidance from health and government agencies, to direct staff assignments during District closures, including but not limited to essential employees who must report to work, employees who may be reassigned, and employees whose services are not needed. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that access to public school grounds and public school buildings of the District may be limited as directed by the Superintendent during District closures. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that certified, exempt employees will remain employed during the school closure and until the number of days expressed on the contract have been fulfilled, unless otherwise approved by the Board. Days that contracted employees do not report for duty onsite or from a remote location, due to closure, do not constitute a fulfilled contract day except to the extent those days are forgiven by the District.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in light of this District-wide emergency closure, the Board authorizes the Superintendent to place hourly non-exempt employees on paid administrative leave and to continue to pay them for remainder of the school closure up to the end of the scheduled school year during. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that in the interest of public health and/or to comply with federal or state health department recommendations or guidance, the Board may limit the number of people who can physically attend Board meetings and may, instead, encourage the public to attend or listen to its open public meetings by video conference and or live streaming on the internet and the Board may also limit public comment to written comments. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the board reserves the right to adjust board meeting dates, times, and locations during the district-wide emergency closure in a manner consistent with the Open Meetings law, and notes that any or all board members may attend board meetings electronically as permitted by law. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that execution of this Resolution is conclusive evidence of the Board’s approval of this action and of the authority granted herein. The Board warrants that it has, and at the time of this action had, full power and lawful authority to adopt this instrument. This resolution will remain in full force and effect until it is rescinded or amended by subsequent action of the Board. 

Huberty moved to approve and amend this resolution and was seconded by Roethler. 

Roll call vote: Huberty-aye, Roethler-aye, Thomsen-Aye, Morton-aye, Dietrich-aye, Hoyman-aye. Nays-none.

Adopted and approved this 15th day of April, 2020. 

 

By: ________________________________________ Board President or Designee 

 

Attest: ________________________________________ Board Secretary 

 

Adjournment:  Morton moved to adjourn at  6:43pm. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

______________________________________ ___________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Special Meeting (Due to Timeliness of Purchases Needed for COVID-19 & Other Expenses)

Board of Education

April 22, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a special session on April 22, 2020 at 5:30pm in the HS Conference Room. The Zoom technology and social distancing were used because of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Katy Thomsen

Aaron Dietrich, Scott Kibbie (all by Zoom)

Absent:   None  

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman 

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the regular meeting to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda:  Roethler moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

COVID-19 2nd Semester Grading:

In Elementary, student grades at third quarter will remain for second semester. The same thing will happen for Middle School. Those with a No Evidence or Not Yet grade will be given opportunities to improve their grades. For High School teachers will review current grades and determine semester grades. These grades will not impact their grade point average (GPA). College courses will remain as those classes transitioned to online. Colleges are requiring students to finish the coursework. Those grades will be reported according to Iowa Lakes grading policies. Students must remember if they fail a college course, they may lose the opportunity to enroll in a college course in the fall semester of the 2020-2021 school year.  By law, the district is not allowed to give grades during the shutdown. Dietrich moved to approve the 2nd semester grading policy. Roethler seconded. Motion carried.

Device Purchases 2020-2021: 

Superintendent Hanna presented proposals for Chromebooks for students. A three year lease cost is $71,279. The board PPEL fund will be used for this cost. Hanna also proposed a lease for teacher laptops. This lease includes 65 laptops with a three year lease of $90,000. The Voted PPEL or Capital Projects funds will pay for these computers. Thomsen moved to approve the leases. Seconded by Morton. Motion carried.

Internet Infrastructure Update 2020-2021: 

Riverside Technologies, Inc performed an assessment of our internet infrastructure. Currently, the district needs to upgrade the infrastructure to handle the 1:1. This project qualifies for E-Rate. E-Rate will reimburse at the rate of 70%. The net cost to the district will be approximately $29,000. Hoyman moved to approve the purchase and Roethler seconded. Motion carried.

Palo Alto County Gaming Corporation Grant Expenses:

Expenses for the PACGDC include the sound system for the High School gym, the Middle School sound system gym, the West Elementary sounds system in the gym and technology for the HS/MS cafeteria. The total cost of all equipment totals $74,934. $10,000 will be remaining from the Gaming Grant and those expenses will be determined at a later date. Thomsen moved to approve the PACGDC expenses and Huberty seconded. Motion carried.

Parking Lot Internet Access: 

Hanna informed the board of the purchase of internet access for the parking areas. The total cost was $2544. This equipment is currently already working. 

Internet Hotspots:

VIPS has provided the district with hotspot access. These hotspots can be locked down to the school devices. The district plans to order 50 hotspots. This is a one time cost. Total cost with equipment and data usage for 4 months would come to $11,350. The CARES Act would be able to fund this type of expenditure. (The CARES Act will be revenue of approximately $85,000).

West Elementary Camera Upgrade:

Hanna presented the proposal for the camera upgrade at West Elementary. The total cost of the camera project is $19,000. 

EXEMPT SESSION

Morton moved to enter into exempt session and Roethler seconded at 6:13pm for negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation or the deliberative process of arbitration. Motion carried. Kibbie exited at 7:06pm. 

Exit exempt session at 7:07pm

 

ADJOURNMENT

Huberty moved to adjourn at 7:08. Morton seconded. Motion carried.

 

___________________________________ ___________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Exempt Session

Board of Education

May 12, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in an exempt session on May 12, 2020 at 5:00pm. The Zoom technology and social distancing were used because of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Katy Thomsen

Aaron Dietrich, Scott Kibbie (all by Zoom)

Absent:   None  

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman 

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the meeting to order at 5:00pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

EXEMPT SESSION

Roethler moved to enter into exempt session and Thomsen seconded for the purpose of negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation or the deliberative process of arbitration. Motion carried. 

 

Exit exempt session at 6:39pm

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:39pm. Huberty seconded. Motion carried.

 

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Exempt Session & Regular Meeting 

Board of Education

May 20, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a regular session on May 20, 2020 at 5:00pm (exempt) and 5:30pm regular in the HS Conference Room. The Zoom technology and social distancing were used because of the COVID-19 pandemic situation. 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Katy Thomsen

Aaron Dietrich, Scott Kibbie (all by Zoom)

Absent:   None 

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the exempt session to order at 5:00pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

5:02pm Kibbie moved to enter into exempt session and Morton seconded citing negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee  organizations, mediation or the deliberative process of arbitration. Motion carried.

Exited exempt session at 5:38pm.

Kibbie motioned to adjourn the exempt session at 5:38pm and Roethler seconded. Motion carried.

Mr. Hanna connected the Zoom session for the public while the board took a break.

 

REGULAR MEETING-5:46pm

Quorum was noted. (same as above in exempt session)

Approval of Agenda:  Morton moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

Roethler moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 414.1-412.3 were presented for approval. Morton moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

MS Softball & 7th Grade Girls Track: Morton brought the contracts off the table. Governor Reynolds announced that summer sports would be able to be held. At this time the district does not know what that will include. Guidelines will be sent to districts. The motion died for a lack of a second.

 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Return to Learn: Three models of delivery types were presented from the state in regards to resuming school in the fall. Interim continuous learning, a combination or hybrid of continuous learning and traditional instruction and finally, traditional instruction were the three options. The district must submit a Return to Learn plan to the state by July 1. This will be a brief plan and not be inclusive of all guidance. The district is organizing committees focusing on multiple areas including leadership, infrastructure, health and safety, academic content, social and emotional behavior and equity. This plan will be a joint plan with the Emmetsburg Catholic School.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:  Huberty moved to approve the following resignations: Cathy Backstrom-MS Para-Educator, Erika Higgins-MS Special Education Teacher, Travis Birkey-Industrial Technology Teacher & Varsity Softball Coach (Softball beginning Summer 2021), Missy Birkey-Elementary Teacher & Head Volleyball Coach, Ally Bruhn-7th Grade Volleyball Coach. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried. Thomsen moved to approve the following contracts: David Rubis-HS Special Education Teacher, Dave Fog-Freshmen Football Coach, Mark Klaus-Co-Head Wrestling Coach, Tyler Bjustrom-Co-Head Wrestling Coach (change from Head Coaching alone), Danielle Auten-Head Volleyball Coach, Sonia Zamora Amoros-HS Spanish (pending final state requirements), Josh Bay-Volunteer Baseball Coach, Scott Higgins-7th Grade Girls Track, Erika Higgins-MS Softball (FY21). Roethler seconded. Motion carried.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 403.6-403.7E7 & 403.6E3 & 403.7E8.  The second readings will be in June.

Student Fee Schedule: Hanna recommended no fee increases for the 2020-2021 school year. Lunch and breakfast rates will not be addressed until a later date. Morton moved to approve the 2020-2021 student fee schedule as presented. Huberty seconded. Motion carried.

Iowa Lakes Community College Agreement (FY20): Dietrich moved to approve the FY20 agreement with Iowa Lakes Community College. Kibbie seconded. Motion carried.

Summer Project List: Hanna presented a list of summer projects for 2020. Revenues were projected for the SAVES and PPEL funds. On-going costs were reviewed and remaining funds were noted. Items noted on the list included sidewalk at West Elementary, LED lighting in the Middle School gym, sidewalk on the east side of the High School, baseball and softball bleachers & prep work relating to the bleachers, electrical upgrades at the softball/baseball complex, lighting and fencing at the softball/baseball complex, scoreboard control for the baseball field and LED lighting for the bus barn. The total of all projects is $556,136. These are costs for projects discussed in the Facilities Committee. Hoyman would still like to see a sidewalk put in west of King Street in front of the high school. The projects will continue to be discussed and approved at a later date.

2005 Bus & 1994 Truck Bids: Four bids were submitted for the 1994 truck/blade. Huberty moved to approve the high bid of $926 from Ed Noonan. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried. Two bids were submitted for the 2005 School Bus. Kibbie moved to approve the high bid of $1200 submitted by Kevin Walters. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

Set Date for Board Work Session on School Budget Factors: Hanna will get back to the board with dates for a work session on school budget factors.

Adjournment:   Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:56pm. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried.

 

______________________________________ ___________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Exempt Session

Board of Education

May 21, 2020

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in an exempt session on May 21, 2020 at 7:00am. The Zoom technology and social distancing were used because of the COVID-19 pandemic situation.

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Katy Thomsen

Aaron Dietrich, Scott Kibbie (all by Zoom)

Absent:   None  

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman 

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the meeting to order at 7:00am, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

AGENDA APPROVAL: Thomsen moved to the agenda. Dietrich seconded. Motion carried.

 

EXEMPT SESSION-7:04am

Roethler moved to enter into exempt session and Huberty seconded for the purpose of negotiating sessions, strategy meetings of public employers or employee organizations, mediation or the deliberative process of arbitration. Motion carried. 

 

Exit exempt session at 7:43am.

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn at 7:43am. Dietrich seconded. Motion carried.

 

____________________________________ __________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

 

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Special Meeting 

Board of Education

June 4, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a special session on June 4, 2020 at 6:00pm in the HS Library Room. 

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler (by Zoom), Katy Thomsen

Absent:   Scott Kibbie, Aaron Dietrich

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Kari Schany, Julie Dunlap

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the special session to order at 6:00pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Approval of Agenda:  Huberty moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Thomsen. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Master Contract

Hanna recommended approval of the Master Contract. Changes included in the  tentative agreement included changing the contract to a one year contract (FY21 only), aging the schedule and adding $200 to the base salary. The total package increase equals 2.46%. Morton moved to approve the 2020-2021 Master Contract. Seconded by Huberty. Motion carried.

 

Adjournment:  Thomsen moved to adjourn at 6:03pm. Seconded by Roethler. Motion carried.

 

______________________________________ ___________________________________

Board President Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting & Board Workshop

Board of Education

June 17, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a regular session on June 17, 2020 at 5:30pm in the HS Library. 

 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Aaron Dietrich

Scott Kibbie 

Absent:   Katy Thomsen, Val Morton

Also Present:  Darren Hanna, Lisa Chapman, Deb Hite, Kari Schany, Joe Schany, Arik Kerr, Sarah 

Brugman (arrived 5:58pm)

Jane Hoyman, President, called the session to order at 5:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

REGULAR MEETING

Approval of Agenda:  Dietrich moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

Approval of Consent Items

 Huberty moved to approve the consent items. Seconded by Dietrich including allowing the board president to approve bills presented on June 30 to finalize for FY20. Those bills will also be presented to the entire board in July. Motion carried.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies: Policies 403.6-403.7R2 were presented for approval.  Roethler moved to approve the policies and was seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

EDUCATIONAL NEWS

Return To Learn: Guidance will be coming by July 1st for re-opening in the fall from the state. Summer sport guidelines were reviewed. Transportation is an issue for reopening in the fall. The District Leadership Team (DLT) will meet mid-July to review the guidelines. 

 

NEW BUSINESS

Resignations/Contracts:  Roethler moved to approve the following resignations: Lori Riley-MS Para-Educator, John Zauche-5-6 Band/Vocal & Summer Band, Nicole Sanders-MS Para-Educator. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried. Kibbie moved to approve the following contracts: Scott Higgins-HS Special Education, Ellen Meerdink-9-12 Spanish, Jason Holt-Industrial Technology (1 year), Elizabeth Naviaux-5-8 Special Education, Alexis Carlson-5-7 Band/Vocal & Summer Band, Kelly Swanson-7th Grade Volleyball Coach, Charla Montag-9th Grade Volleyball Coach. Huberty seconded. Motion carried.

Board Policies: The board was presented with the following policies for a first reading: 500-501.03E1.  The second readings will be in July.

Non-Certified Wages: Hanna recommended a 2.46% increase for the non-certified staff.  Huberty moved to approve the 2020-2021 non-certified wage increase of 2.46%. Dietrich seconded. Motion carried.

Director & Administrator Wages: 

Dietrich moved to approve the 2.46% increase in salary for the FY21 Directors. Huberty seconded. Motion carried.

Roethler moved to approve the FY21 Administrator salaries as follows: 

• Superintendent--Pay Freeze

• Secondary Principal--$100,500 elimination of Concessions Manager and Ticket Manager.  

• Secondary At Risk-Coordinator/Assistant Secondary Principal--$70,000 payed from At-Risk Supplemental (previously approved)

• Elementary Principal--$70,000 (previously approved)

Seconded by Kibbie. Motion carried.

 

Adjournment:   Kibbie moved to adjourn at 6:18pm. Seconded by Dietrich. Motion carried.

 

6:30pm

Board Work Session-School Budget Factors

Larry Sigel of Iowa School Finance Information of Des Moines presented information regarding school budget factors. The main four talking points were:

A. School Finance Basics

B. Emmetsburg Fact Sheet

C.  Five Year Projection Model

D. Questions

Trends and goals for the district were discussed regarding cash balance, fund balance and financial solvency ratios. The session was recorded for those that were not able to attend. 

 

______________________________________ ___________________________________

Board President                                                 Board Secretary

EMMETSBURG COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Special Meeting 

Board of Education

June 24, 2020 Minutes

 

All motions are unanimous unless otherwise noted.

The Board of Education of Emmetsburg Community School District met in a special session on June 24, 2020 at 6:30pm by Zoom.. 

Present: Jane Hoyman, Bill Huberty, Val Morton, Kathy Roethler, Aaron Dietrich, Scott 

Kibbie 

Absent:   Katy Thomsen 

Also Present:  Darren Hanna

 

Jane Hoyman, President, called the special session to order at 6:30pm, acknowledged the fact of a quorum.

 

Roethler moved to approve the agenda and Kibbie seconded the motion. Motion carried.

 

Morton moved to accept the resignation of Andrea Accola-Sabin as the High School Math Teacher. Huberty seconded. Motion carried.  

 

Kibbie moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:33pm. Hoyman seconded the motion. Motion carried.

 

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Board President                                               Acting Secretary-Darren Hanna