REGULAR MEETING

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on July 19, 2021, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble and Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, and local press. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Sornson moved to approve the agenda with adding a new agenda item:  G. Consider Approval of the High School Band and Choir Charter Bus Contract for December 2021 to Florida. Bleichner second, agenda approved 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Trimble moved to approve the consent items. Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

1. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on June 21, 2021 and the special meeting on June 24, 2021.

B. Approval of Resignations

C.  Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

D. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Smith reviewed the bills – Sornson will review in August, Trimble in September,

          and Bleichner in October

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public – none

2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Supt. Reiter reported that the district has a new company to host our board policies, agendas and minutes on the website.  These items are now searchable.  Dunkerton approve to share a Transportation Director with us.  Elementary summer school has started.  The Voter Approved Physical Plant and Equipment Levy is set to expire in 2023.  Currently the levy is at .40 cents and we need to look at possibly increasing that levy amount to cover maintenance costs for the buildings. Supt. Reiter also reviewed a couple of the legislative changes for education. 

C. Presentations

     1.  Discussion of Board Policies 503.1 and 503.4 and the Good Conduct Code in the Coach/

          Sponsor Handbook – JSH Principal Howard presented the difference between the two and will work on finding new terminology to help distinguish between the Student Conduct and Good Conduct polices.   

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

     3.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal and West Elementary Principal

B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report

     2.  Director of School Improvement Report

     3.  Director of Technology Report

     4.  Director of Food Service Report

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

1. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – Supt. Reiter gave an update on the construction projects. The West Elementary project seems to be on track to finish on time, whereas the East Elementary project has had a couple major delays  challenges with asbestos mitigation and paint. Board discussed whether the construction would be completed in time to start school as scheduled.

2. Consider Approval of the IASB Legislative Priorities – Sornson moved to discuss the legislative priorities. Trimble second.  After some discussion, Sornson moved to amend the motion to select:                      Mental Health, Supplemental State Aid, Local Accountability and Decision Making, and Preschool as the district’s legislative priorities. Trimble second the amendment and motion carried 5-0.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Construction Change Orders – Trimble moved to approve the two Construction Change Orders. Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the High School Marching Band Charter Bus Contact for October 9, 2021– Trimble moved to approve the High School Marching Band Charter Bus Contract with Windstream.  Hansen second motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Buchanan County Success Center Handbook for 2021-2022 – Sornson moved to approve the Buchanan County Success Center Handbook for 2021-2022. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of an Audit Proposal – Trimble moved to accept the Audit Proposal from Carney, Alexander, Marold & Co., LLP for 2022 thru 2024. Bleichner second motion carried 5-0.

E. Consider Approval of the Resolution Authorizing Transfer of General Fund to Student Activities Fund for Expenses Remaining Due to COVID-19 Pandemic Activities – Hansen moved to approve the Resolution Authorizing Transfer of General Fund to Student Activities Fund for Expenses Remaining Due to COVID-19 Pandemic Activities in the amount of $25,000. Sornson second. Roll call vote:  Sornson - aye, Trimble – aye, Bleichner – aye, Hansen – aye, Smith – aye.    Motion carried 5-0.

F. Consider Approval of the Updated 2021-2022 School Calendar – There was no motion on this agenda item and no action was taken.  

G. New Item:  Consider Approval of the High School Band and Choir Charter Bus Contract for December 2021 to Florida – Hansen moved to approve the High School Band and Choir Charter Bus Contract for December 2021 to Florida.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Sornson moved to adjourn the meeting. Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 7:37 pm.

WORK SESSION

The work session was held following the regular board meeting. Student Improvement Director Burmeister and JSH Principal Howard gave a presentation on what Standard Reference Grading looks like compared to traditional grading.  Burmeister and Howard is recommending Standard Reference Grading for 7^th grade as that has been their grading system since Kindergarten.  The board directed that an update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition be added as old business to regular board meetings for the upcoming year while the grading coalition completes their work.

Work session ended at 8:45 pm.

___________________________________           ___________________________________

Eric B. Smith, Chair                                                Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

   B. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

Nashville, Tennessee 

   C. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

St. Louis, Missouri

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on August 16, 2021.   Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble and Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, and local press. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Bleichner moved to approve the agenda with removing the minute and board policies from the consent items. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Trimble moved to approve consent items C thru F.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

1. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on July 19, 2021 and the special meeting and work session on August 2, 2021.

      B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

First Readings:

     C. Approval of Resignations

  D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

  E. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

   F. Approval of Financial Reports

         1.  Bills – Director Sornson reviewed the bills – Trimble will review in September 

          and Bleichner will review in October

         2.  Budget Report

Hansen moved, Trimble second to amend the July 19 and August 2^nd minutes as follows:

   July 19^th minutes:

1. Under Old Business – change the word from delays to challenges.
2. New Business – add Motion carried 5-0 to Item G – High School Band and Choir Charter Bus Contract for December 2021 to Florida.
3. Work Session – add: The board directed that an update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition be added as old business to regular board meetings for the upcoming year while the grading coalition completes their work.

   August 2^nd minutes:

1.  New Business – Item B – Revised 2021-2022 School Calendar- December 23^rd will be an early dismissal day rather than a no school day.

Clarification on Calendar Option C – a work day prior to school starting was removed from the calendar.    Motion carried 5-0.

Trimble moved to amend the policies listed in the first reading.   Bleichner second.   The board discussed the revised policies, offering changes to those revisions.  The revised policy list will be brought to the board at the September regular meeting for the customary second reading. Motion Carried 5-0.

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

     A. Comments from the Public. - none

     B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Supt. Reiter reported that August 26^th is still scheduled to be the start date for school.  There is a lot of work to be done to get the classrooms ready.   The District will continue with mitigation efforts such as spraying weight rooms and buses down regularly, hand sanitizing stations, provide masks for those that want them, and possibly purchase ultraviolet-C lights to disinfect areas.

REPORTS

1. Building Administrator Reports

          1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal – Principal Howard reported that the Board Policy 503.4 - Good Conduct Policy needs will now be referred to as 503-4- Activity Standards Policy to address confusion among similarly named board policies.  

          2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

          3.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal and West Elementary Principal

    B. District Director Reports

          1.  Activities Director Report

          2.  Director of School Improvement Report – Burmeister wanted to remind everyone that our Title I funding is based on our Free and Reduced applications so it is important for parent to still fill out the application even though breakfast and lunch meals are currently at no cost to all students.

          3.  Director of Technology Report

          4.  Director of Food Service Report

          5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

          6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

     A. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – The West project is progressing nicely as they are finishing up the fire alarms, electrical work and sound system as well as touch up painting.  East project – the office area still needs essential work as well as the nurse’s office and lounge.  The Library and Cafeteria will need extensive cleaning.

2. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition – Burmeister and Howard reported that a newspaper article will be published the end of August.  A Talking-Point sheet for meetings has been compiled. PowerSchool has been updated with the standards for grading. A parent letter is going out for all 7^th grade parents and to parents where standard based grading is being piloted in the Jr/Sr High. Information for the district website is in progress as well as some Facebook posts.  August 24^th the Coalition team will meet again.  

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Contract with Independence Community Schools and the MTMD Driving School L.L.C. through June 30, 2024 – Sornson moved to approve the Contract with Independence Community Schools and the MTMD Driving School L.L.C. through June 30, 2024.  Bleichner second the motion and motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of Transportation Mask Policy - Trimble moved to approve the Transportation Mask Policy.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.   Masks will not be mandated on the buses, but are welcomed by anyone that want to wear them.  State law says we can’t mandate them.  The CDC guidance is a Federal Order but not a law.

     C. Closed Session – Trimble moved to move into closed session as provided in Section 21.5(1)(i) of the Iowa Code; To evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session.  Hansen second, roll call vote:  Sornson – aye, Trimble – aye, Bleichner – aye, Hansen – aye, Smith – aye.  Motion carried 5-0 and closed session started at 7:11 pm.

Board moved out of closed session at 8:02 pm.  No official action was taken during the closed session.

ADJOURNMENT – Hansen moved to adjourn the meeting.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 8:03 pm.

___________________________________                   _____________________________________

Eric B Smith, Chair                                                          Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on September 20, 2021.   Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, and Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, local press, and one visitor. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Bleichner moved to approve the agenda with removing the board policies out of the consent items. Hanen second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Trimble moved to approve the consent agenda of items 3-A, C, D, E and F. Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

      A. Approval of the regular meeting on August 16, 2021.   

      C.  Approval of Resignations

     D.  Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

     E. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

     F.  Approval of Financial Reports

         1.  Bills – Director Trimble reviewed the bills.  Bleichner will review in October

         2.  Budget Report

     B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted) - Hansen moved to approve the modifications for the second reading policies, recommended changes for the first reading policies and pulling the following policies for clarification:   501-16 - Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Receiving District, 801.5 - Site Acquisition, 905.1 - Transporting Students by Private Vehicles. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

Second Readings:

First Readings:

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

    A. Comments from the Public - none

    B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Superintendent Reiter indicated board policy 704.6 – Online Fundraising Campaigns – Crowdfunding could be a new policy for the district but wants to make sure that there are guidelines and procedures put in place before bringing it to the board.    He thanked Laura Morine and the central staff for getting the Certified Annual Report, Special Ed Report and Transportation reports filed in a timely manner as they are quite extensive annual reports.   The district has improved its financial position from the previous year   The Iowa School Board Convention is November 17-18 in Des Moines and Superintendent Reiter encouraged board members to attend.  A generous donation from the Independence Area Art Association was received for the elementary art programs and it is greatly appreciated.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

     3.  West Elementary Principal

     4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

          Board Chair Smith thanked the principals for performing double duty as they are also covering classrooms due to the substitute shortages.

      B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report

     2.  Director of School Improvement Report

     3.  Director of Technology Report

     4.  Director of Food Service Report

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

1. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – Superintendent Reiter indicated that they will be meeting with Larson Construction and HSR Associates, Inc to follow up on the construction project next week.

2. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition – School Improvement Director Burmeister gave an update on the JSH Grading Coalition as they are making progress on getting students, staff, parents, and the community educated on standards-referenced grading.  There is now a page on the district website with information about this grading process.

     C. Discussion of the East Elementary, West Elementary, and Junior/Senior High School Filtration Project           Using ESSER Funds – Superintendent Reiter is still looking at individual units for the East                             Elementary.  HSR Associates, Inc will be letting out bids the end of October and the filtration                         project should be completed before August 2022 for the West and Jr/Sr High buildings. 

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Agreement for Wellness Programming between Independence Community Schools and Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Agreement for Wellness Programming between Independence Community Schools and Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2022.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) Membership for 2021-2022 – Sornson moved to approve the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) membership for 2021-2022.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Contract with Beachside Hotel & Suites for the December 2021 Band/Vocal Trip – Updated Dates – Trimble moved to approve the Contract with Beachside Hotel & Suites for the December 2021 Band/Vocal Trip.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Agreement with Rosen Centre Orlando for the December 2021 Band/Vocal Trip – Updated Dates – Hansen moved to approve the Agreement with Rosen Centre Orlando for the December 2021 Band/Vocal Trip.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of the Allowable Growth for Negative Special Education Balance – Trimble moved to approve the SBRC Allowable Growth for the Negative Special Education Balance in the amount of $82,569.78.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

6. Discussion Regarding Masks – Board Chair Smith had attended the special meeting held by the Buchanan County Public Health this morning at 7:00 am and they recommend that schools follow CDC guidelines as it is in the best interest of the public’s health.  Superintendent Reiter has concerns if we aren’t consistent with our mask requirements until the state’s appeal process is resolved and that the district will continue with the mitigation strategies that are in place.   After discussions, the board’s recommendation will not be requiring masks, continue our mitigation strategies and look at further mitigation options.  We will start to collect data on absenteeism and write a letter to the Buchanan County Health Board stating what mitigation strategies we are doing in the district. 

ADJOURNMENT – Sornson moved to adjourn the meeting.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0, and the meeting adjourned at 7:30 pm.

___________________________________                   _____________________________________

Eric B Smith, Chair                                                          Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on October 18, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, and Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, local press and guests. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Hansen moved to approve the agenda, Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Bleichner moved to approve the consent items but remove Policy 906.2-Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment from Second Readings, Policy 905.1-Transporting Students in Private Vehicles from First Readings and to make sure all the shall wording is changed to will in the first reading policies and second reading policies.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on September 20, 2021.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

First Readings:

C. Approval of Resignations

D. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Bleichner reviewed the bills – Hansen will review in November

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public - none.
2.  Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Smith reviewed the action items from the previous meeting and said he enjoyed the Homecoming activities.  Trimble said it was great to be able to celebrate Homecoming activities again and thanked all the people that worked on it in the background to make it a success.  Hansen stated she liked the evening parade and also congratulated the marching band and directors on a very successful season.   Supt. Reiter indicated that he is working with Asst. Principal Hupke on a presentation for the Global K-12 Education Research Association that will be seen globally. The Shijiazhaung Foreign Language Education Group is still interested in developing a sister school relationship. The WAMAC Conference Superintendents will be discussing Esports at their November meeting. There will be an open house at the East and West Elementary buildings on Thursday, October 21^st from 6:00pm to 7:30 pm for the community to see the renovations and new construction project.  Certified Enrollment was certified and enrollment has increased about 16 students from last year.  

C. Presentations

     1.  Elementary Math Interventions – Erin Rosburg indicated that she is focusing on 1^st and 3^rd grade students that need help with some of the math standards and they are seeing great results.  

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

     3.  West Elementary Principal

     4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report

     2.  Director of School Improvement Report

     3.  Director of Technology Report

     4.  Director of Food Service Report

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

A. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – A construction meeting is scheduled for Tuesday morning with a walk thru to see what needs to be finalized yet. Restrooms in the West Elementary are just getting started.

B. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition – School Improvement Director Burmeister indicated they are continuing to work on communication with the parents and community about standards referenced grading. Teachers were able to reach a lot of parents during the Parent Teacher Conferences.  Some of the JSH teachers are currently doing a book study on standards referenced grading and it has created great discussions.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Construction Change Order(s) – Sornson moved to approve the construction change order #6 in the amount of $58,043.25.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the 2021-2022 Propane Agreement with Consolidated Energy Co. – Hansen moved to approve the 2021-2022 Propane Agreement with Consolidated Energy Co.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of Contract with Music Theatre International (MTI) for the Spring 2022 Musical – Hansen moved to approve the contract with Music Theatre International (MTI) for the Spring 2022 Musical.  Trimble second.  Musical Director Amanda Fisher indicated they had selected Beauty and the Beast as it has a fairly large cast since the district has a lot of talented students for the roles.  She also presented a preliminary budget for the production.  Motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Following to a Three-Year Term to the Mustang Foundation Board:  Dr. Dan Kegler – Trimble moved to approve Dr. Dan Kegler to fill the three-year term on the Mustang Foundation Board.   Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of Appendix L of the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan – Sornson moved to approve Appendix L of the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.  Hansen second.   Supt. Reiter indicated that the county needs to put together the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan and the school district is a part of this plan.  Motion carried 5-0.

6. Consider Approval of the Resolution for School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Modified Supplement Amount (MSA) for Asbestos Abatement – Trimble moved to approve the Resolution for School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Modified Supplement Amount (MSA) for Asbestos Abatement in the amount of $64,480.47.   Hansen second.  Roll call vote:  Trimble – aye, Bleichner – aye, Hansen – aye, Smith – aye, Sornson – aye.  Motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Bleichner moved to adjourn the meeting.  Sornson second.  Motion carried 5-0 and the meeting was adjourned at 7:10 pm.

___________________________________                   _____________________________________

Eric B Smith, Chair                                                          Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

Regular/Annual Meeting and Organizational Meeting

November 15, 2021

REGULAR/ANNUAL MEETING

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on November 15, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, and Gina Trimble.  Brad Bleichner was not attending but was available by text due to traveling abroad.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, local press and guests. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Sornson moved to approve the agenda, Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Hansen moved to approve the consent items.  Sornson second, motion carried 4-0.

     A. Approval of the minutes of the regular board meeting on October 18, 2021 and the special meeting on October 25, 2021.    

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

C. Approval of Resignations

D. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Hansen reviewed the bills

     2.  Budget Report

     3.  Financial Settlement Statement as of June 30, 2021

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public.  None

2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent - Superintendent Reiter reported that the Iowa School Board Association (IASB) Convention is this week and a couple of board members would be attending with him.  The WAMAC Conference had their first vote to admit Grinnell CSD into the conference.  The final vote will take place at the December WAMAC conference meeting. Reiter recommends the December meeting of the ICSD Board be held Thursday, December 16^th since

there is an elementary concert on Monday, December 20^th.  Supt. Reiter attended the Rotary meeting to start talking about increasing the PPEL Levy funding and that this could be done without increasing the tax rate.   Information regarding the possible OSHA Vaccine Mandate for employers with over 100 employees was sent out to staff in order to meet deadlines.  It is possible this mandate could be repealed. We are working closely with our attorneys and IASB on this situation.  Supt. Reiter left the meeting at 6:12 pm due to illness.

3. Presentations

1.   Therapy Dog – Christie Litterer - This presentation will be rescheduled for a later date.

     2.  Student Learning Goals – Erin Burmeister reviewed the student learning goals with the board.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

     3.  West Elementary Principal

     4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report

     2.  Director of School Improvement Report

     3.  Director of Technology Report

     4.  Director of Food Service Report

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

1. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – Principal Reed reported that work on the restrooms and some painting was taking place after school hours and that it is progressing nicely at West.   Principal Reidy reported that all the door frames have been painted and the new signage has been installed at East.   A walk-through with HSR and Larson’s will be scheduled for the end of December.

2. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition – Burmeister reported that they have attended the Lion’s Club and Ambassadors meeting to discuss the grading process.  The last SIAC meeting had some great discussions and education about the grading process.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Canvass of Board Election from November 2, 2021 – Board Secretary Morine presented the canvass from the election.  Results as follows:  District 1 – Brad Bleichner, District 3 – Charlie McCardle, At-Large District – Gina Trimble.   Hansen moved to accept the canvass, Sornson second, motion carried 4-0.

2. Comments from Outgoing Board Member(s) and Recognition for their Service - Sornson gave her parting words and as well as board members thank her for her service.   Thank you, Jennifer Sornson, for serving four years on the ICSD Board of Education.

3.  Adjournment of Retiring Board and Regular/Annual Meeting - Sornson moved to adjourn the annual meeting.   Trimble second, motion carried 4-0 and the meeting adjourned at 6:50 pm.

ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING

An organizational meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:57 p.m. by Board Secretary Laura Morine at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on November 15, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Charlie McCardle, and Gina Trimble.  Brad Bleichner - not attending but available by text due to traveling abroad.  Also attending: Administrators, directors, local press and guests.

1. Administration of Oath of New Board Members - Board Secretary Morine administered the oath to Charlie McCardle.

2. Election of a President of the Board – Hansen nominated Eric Smith for President, Smith nominated Kim Hansen for President.  Votes were sent via text to Morine’s cell phone.

Board Member               Vote

Gina Trimble                    Kim Hansen

Kim Hansen                     Eric Smith

Eric Smith                        Kim Hansen

Charlie McCardle            Eric Smith

Due to a tie, Board Secretary texted Bleichner to vote.

Brad Bleichner                Eric Smith (Bleichner voted via text)

Eric Smith was elected Board President. Board Secretary Morine administered the oath of office to President Smith.  Board Secretary Morine relinquished the meeting to President Smith.

3. Election of a Vice President for the Board – Trimble nominated Kim Hansen for Vice President. There were no other nominations. Votes were sent via text to Morine’s cell phone.

Board Member              Vote

Gina Trimble                    Kim Hansen

Kim Hansen                     Kim Hansen

Eric Smith                        Kim Hansen

Charlie McCardle            Kim Hansen

Brad Bleichner                 Kim Hansen

Kim Hansen was elected Board Vice President and Board Secretary Morine administered the oath of office to Vice President Hansen. 

4. Set Regular Board Meeting Dates, Time and Location for 2021-2022.

Presently, the Board meets on the third Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Central Administration Office Boardroom for regular meetings.  Trimble moved to approve the Board Meeting Dates, Times and Locations for 2021-2022.  Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

2021-2022 Proposed School Board Meetings: 

December 16, 2021 (Thursday) – NEW DATE  

January 17, 2022

February 21, 2022

March 21, 2022

April 18, 2022

May 16, 2022

June 20, 2022

July 18, 2022

August 15, 2022

September 19, 2022

October 17, 2022

November 21, 2022

 E. Roll Call Vote Order for 2021-2022 – Hansen moved to approve the Roll Call Vote order.  McCardle second.  Motion carried 4-0.

6. Discussion of Committee Assignments for 2021-2022 – Board discussed the committees and assignments. 

    G. Consider Approval of Committee Assignments for 2021-2022 – McCardle moved to approve the committees and committee assignments as follows.  Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.  Committee members will report updates during the Comments section of the agenda

NEW BUSINESS

A.    Consider Approval of Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. and Lynch Dallas, P.C. as Legal Counsels for the  District and Board of Directors – Trimble moved to approve Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. and Lynch Dallas, P.C. as Legal Counsels for the District and Board of Directors. Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

B.    Consider Approval of Resolution Naming Depositories – Hansen moved to approve the Resolution Naming Depositories.  Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

C.    Consider Approval of Resolution to Pay Bills When the Board is Not in Session - McCardle moved to approve the Resolution to Pay Bills When the Board is Not in Session.  Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

D.    Consider Approval of Resolution to Authorize the Use of a Check Protector and Signer and the Proper Control of the Signer – McCardle moved to approve the Resolution to Authorize the Use of a Check Protector and Signer and the Proper Control of the Signer. Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

E.    Consider Approval of Resolution to Issue Payroll – Trimble moved to approve the Resolution to Issue Payroll.   Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

F.    Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – December 2021 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, IL – Hansen moved to approve the Travel Request Form – December 2021 Midwest International Band and Orchestra Clinic in Chicago, IL.  Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

G.    Consider Approval of Student Learning Goals 2021-2022 – This agenda item will be moved to the December agenda as no motion was received.

H.    Consider Approval of the Computer Science/Programming Class – McCardle moved to approve the Computer Science/Programming Class.  Trimble second.  Erin Burmeister presented information as Computer Science classes are now mandatory and Charles Bare will teach them at the HS level. Mr. Bare was available to answer questions. Motion carried 4-0.

I.    Consider Approval of the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2022.  Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

J.    Consider Approval of the Affirmative Action Plan 2021-2022 – McCardle moved to approve the Affirmative Action Plan 2021-2022.  Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

K.    Consider Approval of the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with Lied Center Consortium Program for the 2022-2023 School Year – Hansen moved to approve the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with Lied Center Consortium Program for the 2022-2023 School Year in the amount of $1,955.39.   Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

L.    Consider Approval of the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with River Hills Consortium Program for the 2022-2023 School Year – McCardle moved to approve the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with River Hills Consortium Program for the 2022-2023 School Year in the amount of $6,239.96.   Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

M.    Consider Approval of the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Application Fall 2021 – On-Time Funding Modified Allowable Growth for Increasing Enrollment and Open Enrollment Out not in Fall 2020 – Trimble moved to approve the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Application Fall 2021 – On-Time Funding Modified Allowable Growth for Increasing Enrollment in the amount of $115,632.00 and Open Enrollment Out not in Fall 2020 in the amount $92,328.80. Hansen second.   Roll call vote: Hansen – aye, McCardle – aye, Smith – aye, Trimble – aye.  Motion carried 4-0.

N.    Review IASB Legislative Priorities – Board discussed the legislative priorities as the IASB top priorities differed from the district’s priorities.  The board directed Delegate Kim Hansen to support the IASB priorities.

ADJOURNMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting.  McCardle second, motion carried 4-0.  Meeting adjourned at 7:55 pm.

__________________________________                ________________________________

Eric Smith, President                                                  Laura Morine, Board Secretary

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on December 16, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Charlie McCardle and Gina Trimble. Kim Hansen attended via Zoom. Absent: Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, local press and guests. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – McCardle moved to approve the agenda, Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Trimble moved to approve the consent items.  McCardle second.   Hansen had correction to committee assignments.  City Council Liaison – Bleichner & McCardle and Bleichner’s term ends in 2023.  Smith would like to strike the addition of “and vice president” from the last sentence in Policy 200.2 – Organization of Board of Directors.   Also assign Bleichner to the Mentor/Volunteer Advisory Board rather than Smith.  Motion carried 4-0.

     A. Approval of the minutes of the regular/annual and organizational meeting on November 15, 2021.

     B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

     First Readings:

     C. Approval of Resignations

    D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

     E. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

     F. Approval of Financial Reports

          1.  Bills – Director Smith reviewed the bills – Trimble will review in January

          2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public. - none

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Smith reviewed the action items from the previous month and all were completed.  Trimble and Hansen had attended the Iowa School Board Convention with Supt. Reiter.  McCardle indicated he had attended all the holiday concerts so far this year and they were excellent.   Supt. Reiter is scheduling meeting dates for the PPEL Committee and the Calendar Committee for the first part of January.  The SBRC Committee approved the district’s request for additional spending authority for the Hazardous Abatement of $64,480.47.  The auditorium equipment is starting to show its age and we are starting to look into updating the lights, sound and electronic components. 

C. Presentations

     1.  Therapy Dog – Christie Litterer presented a request to the board to allow “Archie”, her Labradoodle therapy dog to become a therapy dog at East Elementary.   A grant from the McElroy trust was received to help offset some of the costs. 

        2.  Robotics Team Update – Six students that participate in the Robotics program brought their robot and presented to the board what the Robotics team was all about and provided a short demonstration on how the robot works.  Advisor Charles Bare provided moral support and let the students do the presentation. Good luck to the team in their competitions this year.  

     3.  Iowa School Performance Profile – Erin Burmeister presented the performance profile data that was just released and was very excited to report that the ratings for the district substantially increased from last year.  The district was higher than the state average in almost every area.   Burmeister gives credit to the teachers as they have worked very hard in teaching the standards. 

         4.  Supt Reiter presented Eric Smith with a Better Boardsmanship Award from the Iowa School   Board Association since he was not able to attend the convention.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

     3.  West Elementary Principal

     4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

 B. District Director Reports

1.  Activities Director Report

2.  Director of School Improvement Report

3.  Director of Technology Report

4.  Director of Food Service Report

5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

1. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project - The next punch list meeting is scheduled for the first part of January.   Progress is being made with the restroom project.

2. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition – Burmeister and Howard said they have been responding to individual requests about the grading system as questions arise as well as continuing the book study.

C. Consider Approval of Student Learning Goals 2021-2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Student Learning Goals for 2021-2022.  McCardle second, motion carried 4-0.

NEW BUSINESS

A. Consider Approval of the Construction Change Order(s) – McCardle move to approve the Construction Change Order.  Trimble second, motion carried 4-0

B. Consider Approval of the Bid from SEE Electric, LLC for HVAC Upgrades – Trimble moved to approve the bid from SEE Electric, LLC for HVAC Upgrades for the JSH and West buildings.    McCardle second, motion carried 4-0.

3. Discussion of the East Elementary School Filtration Project Using ESSER Funds - Randy Braden with Goetze Dental presented information on portable surface and air purification machines that could be used in the East classrooms, locker rooms, etc. 

D. Consider Approval of the Modified Supplemental Amount (MSA) Application (At Risk Drop Out Prevention) in the Amount of $508,311.00 – School Improvement Director Burmeister presented the AtRisk/DropOut prevention plan to the board.   Trimble moved to approve the Modified Supplemental Amount (MSA) Application (At Risk Drop Out Prevention) in the Amount of $508,311.00.  McCardle second, motion carried 4-0.

E. Consider Approval of the Operating Agreement with St. John’s School – McCardle moved to approve the Operating Agreement with St. John’s School.  Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

F. Consider Approval of Transferring $460.35 of DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America) Funds to the Activity Fund Account. Trimble moved to approve the reallocation of $460.35 of DECA funds to other Activity Fund accounts since DECA has been inactive for over three years.   McCardle second, motion carried 4-0.  

G. Closed Session – Trimble moved to go into a closed session as provided in Section 21.5(1)(k) of the Iowa Code; To discuss information contained in records in the custody of a governmental body that are confidential records pursuant to Section 22.7, Subsection 50.  McCardle second.  Roll call vote:  Hansen – aye, McCardle – aye, Smith – aye, Trimble -aye.   Moved into closed session at 8:05 pm.  Building Principals Howard, Reed and Reidy were also in attendance.

Exited the closed session at 8:30 pm and no official actions were taken during the closed session.

ADJOURNMENT – McCardle moved to adjourn the meeting. Trimble second, motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 pm. 

EXEMPT SESSION - Board discussed negotiations Strategies.   Session ended at 9:00 pm.

___________________________________                   _____________________________________

Eric B Smith, Chair                                                          Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

 Regular Meeting

January 17, 2022

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on January 17, 2022.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Charlie McCardle, Gina Trimble, Kim Hansen and Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, local press and a guest. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Hansen moved to approve the agenda, McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS -Trimble moved to approve the consent items. Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

1. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on December 16, 2021, the special meeting on January 6, 2022, and the special meeting on January 10, 2022.

2. Approval of Board Policies (*changes notes)

Second Readings:

     C. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

       D. Approval of Financial Reports

            1.  Bills - Director Trimble reviewed the bills. Bleichner will review the February bills.

            2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

      A. Comments from the Public - Trent Robinson spoke about his concerns with the girls' softball program.

      B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent - Smith stated his appreciation for everyone involved in educating our students. What a blessing to have such a great staff. All board members agreed. Smith reported that the calendar committee had met and hope to make a recommendation at the February meeting.  Hansen reported on her experiences as the delegate at the Iowa School Board Convention.  Trimble hoped that all board members could attend the Iowa School Board Convention together as she thinks it would be very valuable in team building. Trimble, Smith, Reiter and Morine met to discuss the PPEL renewal. McCardle complimented Supt. Reiter on his attention to the weather the past week. Supt. Reiter reported that the district hopes to bring the PPEL renewal vote to the public in September 2022. The calendar committee will meet on Jan 19^th.  The district was notified that due to the increased enrollment to Preschool, the district can request SBRC spending authority and funds for this increase. A resolution would need to be passed prior to Feb 15th so a special meeting will be needed. At the end of January there will be a meeting to discuss the Action Plan on Diversity Equity. Any board member interested in attending the National School Board Convention, contact Supt. Reiter for more information.

REPORTS

     A. Building Administrator Reports

          1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

          2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

          3.  West Elementary Principal

          4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

     B. District Director Reports

          1.  Activities Director Report – Hansen inquired about live streaming events.

          2.  Director of School Improvement Report

          3.  Director of Technology Report

          4.  Director of Food Service Report

          5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

          6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

     A. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project - Supt Reiter reported there has been some movement at West Elementary on the restrooms and the PA system. There is still work to do on the West band entry. 

     B. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition - School Improvement Director Burmeister reported that there isn’t an update as the coalition has not meet because of the weather cancellations.

     C. Consider Approval of the Purchase of the ActivePure Air Quality System - The Board discussed the purifiers.  The Board recommended getting a quote for the machines, with all necessary accessories and replacement parts for the special meeting.  These machines would be paid for with ESSER funds.

NEW BUSINESS

 A. Consider Approval of two additional Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2022 - Hansen moved to approve the two additional Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2022.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

 B. Consider Approval of the Ultimate Entertainment Iowa LLC Artist Contract for DJ Services for the Winter Formal - Trimble moved to approve the Ultimate Entertainment Iowa LLC Artist Contract for DJ Services for the Winter Formal.  McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Course Registration Guide for 2022-2023 - McCardle moved to approve the Course Registration Guide for 2022-2023. Bleichner second.   After discussion, there were some changes and formatting that need to be completed.  Motion failed 0-5.  The Course Registration Guide will be presented again at the special meeting.

The board will have a special meeting on Monday, January 24^th at Noon. 

ADJOURNMENT - Bleichner moved to adjourn the meeting.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 7:20 pm.

EXEMPT SESSION - Board discussed negotiation strategies.   No official action was taken during the exempt session.   The session ended at 8:05 pm.

________________________________________       ______________________________________

Eric B. Smith, Chair                                                       Laura Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School District

Special Board Meeting

January 24, 2022

A special meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 12:00 pm by Chair Eric Smith at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, IA on January 24, 2022.  Board members present in person:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, and Charlie McCardle.  Brad Bleichner and Gina Trimble attended via Zoom.  Also attending Supt. Reiter.  Board Secretary Morine attended via Zoom.   The Pledge of Allegiance was not recited

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – McCardle moved to approve the agenda, Hansen second.  Motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Hansen moved to approve the consent item.  McCardle second.   Supt. Reiter thanked Annette Harbaugh for her 7 years of service.  Motion carried 5-0.

      A. Approval of Resignations

OLD BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Course Registration Guide for 2022-2023 – Hansen moved to approve the Course Registration Guide for 2022-2023 and that it be posted as a PDF file.  McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

B. Consider Approval of the Purchase of the ActivePure Air Quality System – Hansen moved to approve the purchase of the ActivePure Air Quality System.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.  Supt. Reiter will continue to work on pulling together the ongoing costs of the machines. 

NEW BUSINESS

A. Consider Approval of the Resolution to Request School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Authority for FY22 SWVPP (Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program) Funding – Hansen moved to approve the Resolution to Request School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Authority for FY22 SWVPP (Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program) Funding.  Trimble second. Roll call vote:  Bleichner – aye, Hansen – aye, McCardle – aye, Smith – aye, Trimble – aye.  Motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – McCardle moved to adjourn the meeting.  Hansen second.  Motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 12:10 pm.

______________________________________      ______________________________________

Eric B. Smith, Chair                                                   Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

11.

401.8

Employee Involvement in Decision Making

12.

401.9

Use of School District Facilities & Equipment by Employees

13.

401.10

Use of School District Materials for Internal Communications

14.

401.11*

Limitations to Employment References

15.

401.12*

Travel for the Board of Education, Administrators and Employees

16.

401.13*

Employee Activity Passes

17.

401.14*

Recognition for Service of Employees

18

401.15*

Employee Political Activity

19.

401.16*

Credit Cards

20.

401.17

Internet Acceptable Use Policy for Staff

21.

401.18

Email Acceptable Use Policy for Staff

22.

401.19

Meeting Expenses

23.

401.20

Employee Expression

(Policy Adopted 09/20/2021)

C. Approval of Resignations

D. Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

Independence Community School Board Meeting

 Regular Meeting

March 21, 2022

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Vice Chair Kim Hansen at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on March 21, 2022.    Board members present: Charlie McCardle, Gina Trimble, Kim Hansen and Brad Bleichner. Eric Smith and Board Secretary Morine attended virtually.    Also attending: Supt. Reiter, administrators, directors, local press and guests. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Trimble moved to approve the agenda, McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – McCardle moved to approve the consent items, Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

A. Approval of the minutes of the public hearing and regular meeting on February 21, 2022, the public meetings on February 24, 2022, the work session and special meeting on March 7, 2022, and the public meetings on March 14, 2022.

      B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

        First Reading

    C. Approval of Resignations

   D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

*Pending 2022-2023 Negotiations

        E.  Approval of New Hires (pending acceptable background checks)

 *Pending 2022-2023 Negotiations

     F. Approval of Financial Reports

         1.  Bills – Director Hansen reviewed the bills – McCardle will review in April

         2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public – None
2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – McCardle complimented the students and staff on a great musical.  He also enjoyed band night and appreciated the students encouraging other students.   Bleichner and Trimble also indicated that the musical was very enjoyable and kudos to all involved.   Smith indicated that he had attended President’s Training along with Hansen.  He participated in a mock termination session as well as stressed that emails are part of public records.   Hansen echoed the success of the musical.   She also wanted to acknowledge and congratulated the three students that were selected to perform at AllState Speech, those that participated in band and vocal contests, Mock Trial and Jazz Orchestra making it onto the state level.

         Supt. Reiter reported that the Governor’s retention pay went out in the March payroll. In April, he will propose to the board that all other staff should receive retention pay and it could be paid out of ESSER funds.  There is a committee working on revamping the entry way to Leinbaugh Field thru donations, memorials, Trotter Trail committee and community members that are interested in the project.   The Diversity committee meeting went well and will be meeting again.  Supt. Reiter thanked the JSH staff for hosting a Career Fair and all the businesses that participated.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal – Smith commented that the comparison of office referrals between years is skewed as last year was an outlier compared to this year.

     3.  West Elementary Principal

     4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report

     2.  Director of School Improvement Report

     3.  Director of Technology Report – looking at upgrading the lights and sound in the Auditorium

     4.  Director of Food Service Report – Unfortunately it does not look like all students will have free breakfast and lunches next year and we will need to communicate that out this summer.

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

1. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – Supt Reiter indicated that the hallway in West should be completed by the end of the week.  Still waiting for warmer weather to complete the canopy on the west side of West Elementary.  The West gym floor will be repaired and refinished this summer.  There have been some minor HVAC issues at East and more mini splits have been installed.  The board will have a walk thru of both buildings on April 11^th.

2. Update from the Junior/Senior High School Grading Coalition – Burmeister reported that there were great 1 on 1 conversations with parents during conferences.  She is preparing data to share at the April board meeting.  A survey was sent out to 7^th grade parents and that survey is still open for those parents that have not provided feedback.  A team of ten teachers will be attending a conference on grading in Des Moines.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2022-2023 – Trimble moved to approve the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2022-2023. Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the Cooperative Agreement by and between University of Northern Iowa and Cooperating Educational Agencies for the 2022-2023 Academic Year – McCardle moved to approve the Cooperative Agreement by and between University of Northern Iowa and Cooperating Educational Agencies for the 2022-2023 Academic Year. Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Agreement for Teacher Education Clinical Experience Placements between Independence Community School District and Morningside University for the 2022-2023 Academic Year – Trimble moved to approve the Agreement for Teacher Education Clinical Experience Placements between Independence Community School District and Morningside University for the 2022-2023 Academic Year.  McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Amendment of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for 2022-2023 Fiscal Year – Trimble moved to approve the Amendment of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for 2022-2023 Fiscal Year.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.  This is the 4^th year of the 5-year contract.

5. Consider Approval to Purchase a Main Street Banner for Independence’s 175th Birthday – Trimble moved to approve to pay $200 to purchase a Main Street Banner for Independence’s 175^th Birthday.  McCardle second motion carried 5-0.

F. Discussion on Weighted Grading – Supt Reiter reported that some districts did weighted grading for the more difficult classes and other districts did not.  Dyersville Beckman was the only district in the WaMaC conference that we had heard back from that weighted their AP classes.  Cedar Falls also weights their AP classes. All board members weighed in on the discussion.  Reiter indicated that changes like this should flow thru the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC).  Discussion on weighted grading will continue at future board meetings.