A. Approval of Resignations/Retirements

B.  Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

Salary is based on 2019-2020 Combined Salary Spreadsheet and will be updated according to the                 2020-2021 contract settlement.

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

All Salaries are based on 2019-2020 Combined Salary Spreadsheet and will be updated according to the 2020-2021 contract settlement.   *Ten Extended Contract Days

ADJOURNMENT – Hansen moved to adjourn.  Sornson second.  Motion carried 4-0 and meeting adjourned at 11:05 am

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Sornson moved to approve the agenda but striking item J.  2020-2021 Coach Sponsor Activities Handbook from the agenda. O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

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

A. Approval of the minutes of regular meeting on June 15, 2020, the special meeting on June 30, 2020, and the special meeting on July 9, 2020.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

    C. Approval of Resignations

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director O’Loughlin reviewed the bills

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public. Residents of the District - None

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent - O’Loughlin wanted to thank Mr. Howard and Mr. Hupke for organizing the graduation ceremony.   Trimble stated she was glad that the softball and baseball had an opportunity for a season.   Supt. Reiter reported that he is continuing to have conversations with HSR and they will be in the district for interior design discussions soon.  Baseball and softball both had successful seasons even though they didn’t make it to post season play.  Morine is working on a FEMA grant.  At this point foreign exchange students will be allowed to attend school if all the guidelines are met.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal and Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

     2.  West Elementary Principal and 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. Return to Learn Plan – Burmeister gave an update on the Return to Learn Plan.
2. Consider Approval of the IASB Legislative Priorities – The legislative priorities voting was tallied   and the top four priorities are: Mental Health, Supplemental State Aid, School Funding Policy and a proposed priority for COVID-19 and Return to Learn supports and funding.  Hansen moved to approve the above legislative priorities. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.  Morine will report these priorities to the Iowa School Board Association.

NEW BUSINESS

A. Consider Approval of the Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. 2020-2021 Contracted Services Agreement – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. 2020-2021 Contracted Services Agreement.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

B. Consider Approval of the 2020 Renewal Proposal with SU Insurance Company – Trimble moved to approve the 2020 Renewal Proposal with SU Insurance Company. Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

C. Consider Approval of the Beverage Agreement with Pepsi Beverages Company through 07/20/2023 –Sornson moved to approve the Beverage Agreement with Pepsi Beverages Company through 07/20/2023. O’Loughlin second.  After discussion, Trimble moved to table the motion, Hansen second.  Motion was tabled 3-2 with Sornson and O’Loughlin voting nay.

D. Consider Approval of the Letter of Agreement between the Independence Community School District and Covenant Family Solutions – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Letter of Agreement between the Independence Community School District and Covenant Family Solutions. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

E. Consider Approval of the Transportation Sharing Agreement with Jesup Community School District for 2020-2021 – Hansen moved to approve the Transportation Sharing Agreement with Jesup Community School District for 2020-2021.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

F. Consider Approval of the Human Resources Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2020-2021 – Trimble moved to approve the Human Resources Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2020-2021.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

G. Consider Approval of the Maintenance Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2020-2021 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Maintenance Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2020-2021. Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

H. Consider Approval of the Food Service Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2020-2021 – Hansen moved to approve the Food Service Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2020-2021.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

I.  Consider Approval of the 2020-2021 Elementary and JSH Student Handbooks – O’Loughlin moved to approve the 2020-2021 Elementary and JSH Student Handbooks. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

J.  Consider Approval of the 2020-2021 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook – Struck from the Agenda.

K. Consider Approval of the 2020-2021 Student-Parent Handbook for Activities Participation – This handbook is part of the JSH Student Handbook and was approved under item I.

L. Return to School – Supt. Reiter and the board discussed possible protocols for Return to School.

ADJOURNMENT – O’Loughlin moved to adjourn the meeting. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 8:36 pm.

EXEMPT SESSION

The board discussed negotiation strategies.  Session ended at 9:00 pm.

______________________________________      _____________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chair                                                                       Laura Morine, Board Secretary

A. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

Salary is based on 2019-2020 Combined Salary Spreadsheet and will be updated according to the 2020-2021 contract settlement.

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

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

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

A. Approval of the minutes of regular meeting on July 20, 2020 and the special meeting on July 29, 2020.

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)

*One extended contract day

       F. Approval of Financial Reports

            1. Bills – Director Smith reviewed the bills

            2. Financial Reports

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public - None

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Board members asked everyone to have patience, kindness and grace for all as we start the new school year.  Superintendent Reiter reported that new teacher orientation was held today.  All staff will have a welcome back Zoom meeting on Tuesday morning and students come back to school on August 24^th.   We are still waiting on the buses that were purchased with grant funds.  Waiting on trim around the windows and blinds for the board room. There has been a delay in the technology installation due to the Derecho storm. There will be a work session on August 31^st as Becker and Associates will discuss the partial self- funding plan with the Board.

C. Presentations

     1. HSR Associates Inc. – Representatives from HSR Associates, Inc presented some drawings for the East and West Elementary projects and also had on hand samples of the flooring.  HSR is about half way through completing the construction documents.   Hope to let the bids out the middle of December 2020.   Ground breaking for the West addition could start in the spring as soon as it thaws and completed for fall 2021 classes.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal and Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal – Principal Howard answered some board member questions regarding students coming back to school.  Masks will be required in the hallway, additional lunch periods were added to the schedule along with purchasing additional lunch tables.

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

B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report – Putz reported that a lot of schools in the WaMaC Conference had building damages from the Derecho storm and it delayed the AD’s meeting but it has now been scheduled.   The fall parent meeting will be held virtually.  The fall home Cross-Country meet will be held on campus rather than MHI this year.

     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. Return to Learn Plan Update – School Improvement Director Burmeister gave an update on the Return to Learn Plan.  The plan is on the school’s website.  The Wellness Screener within the plan should be used by the staff and parents.
    
2. Return to School Update – Superintendent gave an update on Return to School. The positivity rate is reviewed daily and watching the trend.  Masks will be required on all buses and the district will need to have meals available to the remote learners, however meal charges will apply.
    
3. Consider Approval of the Beverage Agreement with Pepsi Beverages Company through 07/20/2023 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Beverage Agreement with Pepsi Beverages Company through 7/20/23.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Lease Agreement between Independence Community School District and Hawkeye Community College through June 30, 2021.  Trimble moved to approve the Lease Agreement between Independence Community School District and Hawkeye Community College through June 30, 2021. Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
    
2. Consider Approval for a Catastrophic Student Accident Insurance Plan with Great American Insurance Group through August 1, 2021. Trimble moved to approve the Catastrophic Student Accident Insurance Plan with Great American Insurance Group through August 1, 2021 Sornson second, motion carried 5-0. 
    
3. Consider Approval of Amending the Dress Code and Grooming Language in the 2020-2021 Employee Procedures and Benefits Manual.  Sornson moved to Amend the Dress Code and Grooming Language in the 2020-2021 Employee Procedures and Benefits Manual.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT- O’Loughlin moved to adjourn the meeting.  Hansen second, motion carried.  Meeting was adjourned at 8:50 pm.

____________________________________            ____________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chairperson                                                             Laura Morine, Board Secretary

APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Sornson moved to approve the agenda. O’Loughlin second, and motion carried 5-0.

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

A. Approval of the minutes of regular meeting on August 17, 2020 and the work session on              August 31, 2020.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

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 audited the bills

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIO.

1. Comments from the Public – None
2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent - Smith reported that he will be the district delegate for the Iowa School Board Convention that is coming up.  Superintendent Reiter has continued discussions with HSR and Point of Beginning on the potential road project at West Elementary.  Bus inspections went well.  Monthly meetings are set up with the teacher’s association.   Information was passed out to the board regarding the renewal of the Instructional Levy. Next month there will be a public hearing on the Instructional Levy before the regular meeting.

C. Presentations

     1.  COVID Funding – Laura Morine reported that she is applying for a FEMA grant. This grant should cover 75% of qualifying expenses, the State Disaster fund will cover 10% and local match for the balancing 15%.  As of September 15^th, the qualifying items changed and new orders of PPE and sanitizer will not be covered, but qualifying items could change again.  $114,000 of federal funding was received as well as $61,200 in funding for technology and connectivity expenses.  An additional $13,394 federal funding that is being passed on by the state is expected.  To date the district has had $125,000 in COVID expenses. Additional expenses will include the added shuttle bus route and custodial staff costing the district approximately $53,000 for the year.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal - Principal Howard reported his building is still in discussions on how Parent/Teacher Conferences will work.   

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal - Hansen thanked Asst. Principal Hupke for the videos he posts.

     3.  West Elementary Principal and East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal – Sub covering has been incredible by the existing staff.

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. Return to Learn Plan Update – Burmeister gave an update to the Return to Learn Plan.  A new hybrid option was added to help with staff shortages and is called Hybrid (Staff Shortages).  The plan has been updated on the district’s website.

B. Return to School Update- Superintendent Reiter reported that there is a COVID dashboard on the district’s website that is updated each week day.  Homecoming has been postponed.  Reiter thanked all the staff for doing an amazing job with all the extra work they are doing.

NEW BUSINESS

A. Consider Approval of the Contract between Northeast Iowa Community College and Independence Community School District for 2020-2021 Academic Year – Sornson moved to approve the Contract between Northeast Iowa Community College and Independence Community School District for 2020-2021 Academic Year.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

B. Consider Approval of the Agreement with Buchanan County Health Center for Wellness Programming through July 31, 2021 – Trimble moved to approve the Agreement with Buchanan County Health Center for Wellness Programming through July 31, 2021. Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

C. Consider Approval of the Agreement for Sports Injury Coverage with Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2023 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Agreement for Sports Injury Coverage with Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2023.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

D. Consider Approval of the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) Membership for 2020-2021 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) Membership for 2020-2021.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

E. Consider Approval of Updating COVID Safety Guidelines – Using the language on the current page 15, as of 9/21/2020, of the Independence Jr/Sr High School’s Return to Learn Plan, Hansen made a motion for all district students, staff and visitors to properly wear masks/face shields/face coverings covering their mouth and nose.  The face mask requirement will conclude or sunset when the governor declares the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency. O’Loughlin second.  After board discussion Sornson called the question. Motion carried 4-1, with Trimble voting nay.

ADJOURNMENT – Sornson moved to adjourn the meeting.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried.  Meeting was adjourned at 8:25 pm.

____________________________________            ____________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chairperson                                                          Laura Morine, Board Secretary

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Hansen moved to approve the agenda with moving new business item E. Consider Approval of Baseball/Softball Facility Improvements to be the first agenda item under new business. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Sornson moved to approve the consent items. O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

A. Approval of the minutes of regular meeting on September 21, 2020 and the work session on September 30, 2020.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

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 audited the bills

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public. None

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Trimble congratulated the football, volleyballs and cross-country teams on their fall seasons and wishes them luck in post season.   Smith reported that the proposed IASB Legislative Priorities for 2021 are: Preschool, Mental Health, School Funding Policy, Supplemental State and a new one:  Covid-19 Remediation.  Superintendent Reiter reported our certified enrollment is 1390.56. This is down a little over 36 students but our students served is only down 8 students as our open enrollment in is up 19 students and open enrollment out is down 8.   As winter is approaching, Supt. Reiter is developing criteria on when virtual snow days will be used.  He will look at the forecast, length of forecasted storm and the timing of the storm.   Supt Reiter indicated that in November, he would present information for a possible Early Retirement package.   On October 26th, HSR will be available for a virtual open house for the West and East Elementary projects. Supt. Reiter also reminded board members to fill out the attendance survey for the fall IASB Virtual Conference so the appropriate registrations can be made.

C. Presentations

     1.  FY2020 Financial Update – Director of Finance Morine presented the FY2020 financial update. The district’s General Fund solvency ratio increased from 13.68% to 17.77% and the district’s unspent balance increased to $1,812,614.  The boards unspent balance goal is $2,000,000. The district’s finances are heading in the right direction.

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 – The attendance to the fall play will have limited tickets for sale and livestreaming connections.

     2.  Director of School Improvement Report

     3.  Director of Technology Report

     4.  Director of Food Service Report – the Federal free meals have been extended thru the end of the school year.  Food Director Harbaugh has seen a decrease in the sack lunches for JSH students.

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

OLD BUSINESS

1. Return to Learn Plan Update – School Improvement Director gave an update on the Return to Learn Plan.  The team will be meeting on Wednesday, Oct 21^st to evaluate the Hybrid plan and make recommendations to Supt. Reiter.

NEW BUSINESS

E. Consider Approval of Baseball/Softball Facility Improvements – Trimble moved to approve the Baseball/Softball Facility Improvements funded by the community.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.  Mr. Hupke addressed the board as a parent and part of the community group that wants to upgrade the softball/baseball facilities by adding two new batting cage, 16x48 storage shed, provide additional standing room on the bleachers and overhead netting for shade and foul ball protection.  These improvements are estimated to cost $100,000 and would be funded 100% by private donation, so no district funds would be used on the construction of these improvements.

A. Consider Approval of the 2020-2021 Propane Agreement with Consolidated Energy Co. – Hansen moved to approve the 2020-2021 Propane Agreement with Consolidated Energy Co for 17,500 gallons.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

B. Consider Approval of the Following to a Three-Year Term to the Mustang Foundation Board:  Rob Robinson, Jeremy Hahn, Lloyd Davis, and Megan Rasmussen – Sornson moved to approve adding the following to a Three-Year Term to the Mustang Foundation Board:  Rob Robinson, Jeremy Hahn, Lloyd Davis, and Megan Rasmussen.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

C. Consider Approval of the Resolution to Consider Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Program.  Trimble moved to approve the Resolution to Consider Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Program.  O’Loughlin second.  Roll call vote: Trimble – aye, O’Loughlin – aye, Hansen – aye, Smith – aye and Sornson - aye.  Motion carried 5-0.

D. Consider Approval of the Allowable Growth for Negative Special Education Balance – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Allowable Growth for Negative Special Education Balance for $221,684.11.   Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting.  Sornson second, motion carried.  Meeting was adjourned at 6:57 pm.

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

E. Consider Approval of Committee Assignments for 2020-2021 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Committee Assignments for 2020-2021.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0

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

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

A. Approval of the minutes of regular meeting on October 19, 2020.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

C. Approval of Resignations

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

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Smith reviewed the bills

     2.  Budget Report

     3.  Financial Settlement Statement as of June 30, 2020

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public. No public comments.

2. Comments from the Board, Including Committee Assignment Updates – Smith stated the board meeting was being held remotely as he feels the board is not a cohort of the school and this reduces the risk of spreading illness and realizes that it is in contrast to the students doing in person instruction, but as a move so that student in person instruction may continue. He also thanked the sponsors of fall play for their work in providing this opportunity to the students. The students did a great job.

3. Comments from the Superintendent – Supt Reiter was not present.
    
4. Presentations

  1. K-12 Literacy – Erin Burmeister, Sue Henkes, Lyndzi Roth, Kerry Pasker and Lori Bowers presented information on what is going on with literacy in all of the buildings.  

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal – Mr. Howard was coaching a game and not present at this time. Smith highlighted that a social/mental health grant for the staff was received, thanks to Mrs. Frye for writing that grant.  Trimble questioned how many JSH students were required to change from remote to every day instruction. Burmeister will get those numbers to the board members, but clarified that only those students that were identified as At-Risk and failing a class were required to come back.

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal – Trimble thanked Mr. Hupke for his Veterans Day video.

     3.  West Elementary Principal

     4.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center Principal

B. District Director Reports

     1.  Activities Director Report – AD Putz reported that the winter sport coaches are using the same mitigation protocols that the fall sports coaches followed.  However, new guidelines are that only two spectators are allowed for the participating athletes.  Unfortunately, student managers, cheerleaders and coaches are not included to have additional spectators at this time per the state’s guidelines.  Wrestlers are practicing in small cohorts and limiting the numbers in locker rooms.  Masks for coaches are optional just as they were in the fall.

     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. Return to Learn Plan Update – the District Leadership Team’s regular meeting is Wednesday. The team keeps a close eye on the district’s COVID Dashboard. There are more elementary students in quarantine but that is due to out of school exposures.  The Hybrid Plan at the JSH seems to be working in mitigating the student’s exposure. The team realizes they need to be responsive, day to day.
    
2. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – HSR(architect firm) is on schedule to push out the bids in mid-December.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval to Continue Participation in the Instructional Support Program for the Independence Community School District.  Trimble moved to approve the Continue Participation in the Instructional Support Program for the Independence Community School District.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of District Student Learning Goals – O’Loughlin moved to approve the District Student Learning Goals.  Sornson second the motion. Burmeister reviewed the goals with the board.  The goals are developed in teacher groups, then goes to the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) for approval and then to the board for approval. Due to the pandemic there has been a gap in data but they are moving forward the best way possible. The motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with Lied Center Consortium Program for the 2021-2022 School Year – Sornson moved to approve the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with Lied Center Consortium Program for the 2021-2022 School Year in the amount of $1,596.01.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with River Hills Consortium Program for the 2021-2022 School Year – Hansen moved to approve the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with River Hills Consortium Program for the 2021-2022 School Year in the amount of $9,590.02. O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Application Fall 2020 On-Time Funding Modified Allowable Growth for Open Enrollment Out not in Fall 2019 – Trimble moved to approve the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) Application Fall 2020 On-Time Funding Modified Allowable Growth for Open Enrollment Out not in Fall 2019, in the amount of $147,232.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

6. Consider Approval of the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2021 – Hansen moved to approve the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2021.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

7. Consider Approval of Vacation Pay Out – O’Loughlin moved to approve the vacation payout for the staff member that had more than 5 days but not to pay out more than 10 days. Hansen second the motion. After board discussion motion failed 0-5.  Board may consider extending the date in which the vacation needs to be used.

ADJOURNMENT - Sornson moved to adjourn the regular meeting.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0. Regular meeting was adjourned at 7:30 pm.

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

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

First Readings:

C. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

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

*Salary is approximate depending on the number of days he will be teaching after his license is issued by the Iowa Board of  Educational Examiners (BOEE).

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Trimble reviewed the bills

     2.  Budget Report

4.

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public. No public comments

B. Comments from the Board: Smith commented that he attended the School Board Convention.  During the delegate assembly, a legislative resolution was added to increase the budget guarantee percentage during declining enrollment from 1% to 3% over the previous school year budget..  Trimble commented she also attended the School Board Convention and encouraged all board members to attend, as it is a highly engaging conference.  Hansen commented she attended the School Board Convention virtually and enjoyed the sessions and noted there were lots of good takeaways.  Sornson - no comment. O’Loughlin - no comment.

Comments from the Superintendent:  Reiter commented that there is new law, Chapter 103, coming into effect January 20, 2021 regarding restraints of students.  The district will continue to train staff.  The Insurance Committee met; they received good information from Becker & Associates.  The Committee had great conversations and will meet again in 2-3 weeks.  Governor Reynolds has increased the number of people per student that can attend activities.  Band and cheerleaders are now included.  Calendar Committee will meet in January, Administration from each building will select a parent volunteer to be on the committee.  The District Leadership Team (DLT) will have more conversations and collect more information and data regarding temperature screenings.  Board members should call Superintendent Reiter with any questions.    

C. Presentations

 1.  Mentoring Program Update – This presentation will be moved to the January 2021 agenda.

 2.  Extended Learning Program (ELP) – Megan Slessor and Todd Reed presented information on what is going on with ELP in all the buildings.

5.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal

 2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal - Hupke reported pledges have reached approx. $92,000 of the $100,000 for the Mustang Way Renovation Project. The next final push meeting is January 4. 2021.  Batting cages and concrete are purchased.  The steel for the bleachers was purchased from Pries Enterprises located in Independence, IA.

     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 - The board noted that there was a complimentary email sent to the Administration regarding Annette Harbaugh supporting dietary needs.

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

6.

OLD BUSINESS

1. Return to Learn Plan Update -  Reiter reported the JSH DLT met on Wednesday to discuss Hybrid Learning Model.  A survey was sent out to JSH staff.   The positivity rate for the county and school district numbers were considered when making the decision to change to 100% In-Person Learning.  Returning on January 4, 2021 will give students a chance to improve grades and be in class everyday before the end of the semester.  The decision was made to return on January 4, 2021 with onsite learning.  Burmeister reported the elementary DLT met regarding mitigation strategies.  It was decided to keep mitigation strategies as they are, it is keeping our numbers down and keeping the students in school.  All three plans (In-person, Hybrid, and Remote Learning)  have been used and all three plans have worked.   The district will continue to watch the data and numbers.

2. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project - Reiter reported the contractor walk throughs have been pushed back to December 30, 2020.  Soils samples are done.  Bids are due January 12, 2021.  Possible approval of winning contractor at the January 18, 2021, board meeting.  Independence Light & Power/WPPI are very engaged and asked to be a part of the process to help with energy savings and rebates.

7.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Upper Iowa University Student Teacher Substitute Policy

Sornson moved to approve the Upper Iowa University Student Teacher Substitute Policy.  O’Loughlin seconded, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the District Developed Special Education Service Delivery Plan Committee Members -  Trimble moved to approve the District Developed Special Education Service Delivery Plan.  Hansen seconded, motion carried 5-0.  The board recommended finding one more parent representative to be on the committee.

3. Consider Approval of the Course Registration Guide for 2021-2022

O’Loughlin moved to approve the Course Registration Guide for 2021-2022.  Trimble seconded, motion carried 5-0.  There are minor formatting changes that need to be made.

4. Consider Approval of the Modified Supplemental Amount (MSA) Application (At Risk Drop Out Prevention) - Trimble moved to approve the Modified Supplemental Amount (MSA) Application (At Risk Drop Out Prevention).  O’Loughlin seconded, motion carried 5-0.   The requested amount from the state is $432,109. Our district is required to match a percentage to the amount of $144,036. That will total $576,145 for the At Risk Drop Out Prevention program. .

5. Consider Approval of Extending the Deadline for Fiscal Year 2020 Vacation Days to March 31, 2021 - Hansen moved to approve of Extending the Deadline for the Fiscal Year 2020 Vacation Days to March 31, 2021.  O’Loughlin seconded, motion carried 5-0.

6. Consider Approval of the Licensed Employee Early Retirement Plan Policy 407.3 and 407.4 First Reading - Trimble moved to approve the Licensed Employee Early Retirement Plan Policy 407.3 and 407.4 First Reading and waive the second reading.  Hansen seconded, motion carried 5-0.  There are 10 certified employees that would be eligible for the package.  A discussion was had about how many of those employees would be replaced and if any programs would be eliminated.

7. Consider Approval of the Certified Staff Early Notification Incentive Resolution

O’Loughlin moved to approve the Certified Staff Early Notification Incentive Resolution.  Hansen seconded, after board discussion motion failed 2-3. Roll call vote: O’Loughlin: nay, Hansen: aye, Smith: aye, Sornson: nay, Trimble: nay. 

8. Closed Session

Hansen moved to approve the board go into closed session 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.  Sornson seconded.  Roll call vote: O’Loughlin– aye, Hansen: aye, Smith: aye, Sornson – aye, Trimble – aye. Motion carried 5-0 and moved into closed session at 7:30 p.m.   The Board exited closed session at 8:14 pm and no official business was transacted during this closed session.

8.

ADJOURNMENT

Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting. O'Loughlin second, motion carried. Meeting was adjourned at 8:15 pm.

_____________________________________                         ____________________________________

Eric B. Smith, Chair                                                                               Nikki M. Sidles, Acting Secretary

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

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

A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on December 21, 2020.

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 Hansen reviewed the bills.  Director O’Loughlin to audit in February

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public - No public comment

2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Since the second semester started today, Smith wanted to thank all the staff for their hard work to get us to this point.   All the board members agreed and wanted to thank the staff for their efforts. Sornson also stated that social distancing and masks still needs to continue.  Supt. Reiter reported that today was the first day that there were zero staff and zero students of not having COVID.  There are still a few staff/students that are quarantined due to their household members having COVID.  Doug Larson and Supt Reiter did a walk through of East and West to review the construction project as there needs to be a fast turnaround to get the project completed.  Chromebooks are scheduled to replaced this spring and the funding was budgeted, so Mr. Noyes in looking to get them ordered soon. Supt. Reiter received notification from the Buchanan Public Health that the school staff would be in the second wave of the COVID vaccine and would like to start making plans for the distribution.  The Central Rivers AEA donated a book, Schools Cannot Do It Alone by Jamie Vollmer to the board. The book is about building public support for public schools. When looking ahead for the May board meeting there may be a date change due to conflicts with athletics and concerts.

C. Presentations

     1.  Mentoring Program Update – Val Maximovich

     2.  Chapter 103 – Erin Burmeister

     3.  CRAEA Supports and Partnerships with ICSD – Josh Johnson

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal – Mr. Howard indicated there is a winter dance scheduled for February 27 and Prom is scheduled for April 17^th.  Details for the dances are still being worked out.   They are also working out details regarding Homecoming and Homecoming Court.

     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. Return to Learn Plan Update

B. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Master Services Agreement with Frontline Technologies Group – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Master Services Agreement with Frontline Technologies Group.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of East/West Elementary Construction Project Bids – Hansen moved to approve the Larson Construction bid of $3,361,750 for the East/West Elementary.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.  There were three very competitive bids that included the five alternatives and all the bids came in under the projected costs.
    
3. Consider Approval to Extend COVID-19 Leave Resolution – Sornson moved to approve the Extended COVID-19 Leave Resolution.  Hansen second.   Roll call vote: O’Loughlin – aye, Hansen- aye, Smith – aye, Sornson – aye, Trimble – aye.  Motion carried 5-0.
    
4. Closed Session – Hansen moved to go into 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.  Sornson second. Roll call vote: O’Loughlin – aye, Hansen- aye, Smith – aye, Sornson – aye, Trimble – aye.  Motion carried 5-0. Board moved into closed session at 7:12 pm.

Board exited closed session at 7:58 pm and no official transactions were conducted during the closed session.

ADJOURNMENT – Hansen moved to adjourn the meeting.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 7:59 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA- Trimble moved to approve the agenda but striking the English Language Learner Presentation.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Sornson moved to approve the consent items. O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

1. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on January 18, 2021.
    
2. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

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 O’Loughlin reviewed the bills.  Smith to review in March

     2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public – none
    
2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Trimble congratulated the wrestlers going to the state tournament as well as the speech team for their successes and making it to the state level.  Hansen echoed the congratulations and also encouraged board members to contact the legislators and Governor on current education legislation.   Supt. Reiter thanked the public health staff for the vaccines on Friday as 121 staff members received their first vaccine.  The May board meeting conflicts with the HS music concert , so the board meeting will be moved to Tuesday, May 18^th.   Work has begun on the certified budget.  SSA of 2.4% is waiting for the Governor to sign.  Due to decreased enrollment, the district will receive a Budget Guarantee for the next year.
    
3. Presentations

     1.  English Language Learners (ELL) Program – presentation postponed until next month.

     2.  Chromebooks – Steve Noyes, Director of Technology discussed the Chromebook Plan for 2021-2022.  The district will need to purchase 1,200 Chromebooks.  Prices are a bit higher than we originally budgeted but the models we are looking at have a longer End of Life period.  Noyes indicated that the devices will need to be ordered in March so they are ready for the students when school starts this fall.     

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. Return to Learn Plan Update - Supt. Reiter reported that the District Leadership Team will be meeting this week.   More students are returning to the classroom from remote learning.  Any future full snow days will now become remote learning days.

B. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – The West stage has been removed and progress is being made. Supt Reiter is updating photos on the district’s website.

C. Final Fiscal Year 2020 Audit – Director of Finance Morine indicated the audit has been filed with the State Auditors office and it was a clean audit.

NEW BUSINESS

A. Consider Approval of the 2021-2022 School Calendar – Sornson moved to approve the 2021-2022 School Calendar.   O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0. 

B. Consider Approval of Employee Early Retirements – Trimble moved to approve the Employee Early Retirements.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0. Thank you and best wishes to Diane Kinseth – 35 years in the district; David Lang – 28 years in the district; Bonnie O’Brien – 19 years in the district.  Enjoy your retirement.

C. Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – October 2021 National FFA Convention to Indianapolis, IN.  O’Loughlin moved to approve the Travel Request Form – October 2021 National FFA Convention to Indianapolis, IN.  Hansen second, motion approved 5-0.

D. Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – December 2021 Music Department Trip to Orlando, Florida – Trimble moved to approve the Travel Request Form – December 2021 Music Department Trip to Orlando, Florida.   Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

E. Consider Approval of Agreement between Independence Community School District and Larson Construction Co., Inc. for the East/West Elementary Construction Project – Trimble moved to approve the Agreement between Independence Community School District and Larson Construction Co., Inc. for the East/West Elementary Construction Project.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

F. Consider Approval of the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for March 2021 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for March 2021.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

G. Consider Approval of the Proposed Hawkeye Community College (HCC) Courses for 2021-2022 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Proposed Hawkeye Community College (HCC) Courses for 2021-2022.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

H. Consider Approval of the Farm Lease for 2021-2022 – Sornson move the Farm Lease for 2021-2022.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

I. School Resource Officer (SRO) Discussion – Supt Reiter has been budgeting for a shared SRO officer from At-Risk funds. A 50/50 partnership could be with the City of Independence. Chief Dallenbach agreed that this program would be very beneficial for the community and knows of communities where the SRO has been successful. To have an effective program, the SRO needs to be proactive and develop relationships with the students. Ideally this would start in the elementary grades.   There is work to be done in defining a job description, objectives and goals for the program as well as obtaining research and data from district that currently utilize an SRO in their district.

ADJOURNMENT – Sornson moved to adjourn the regular meeting.   O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 7:40 pm.

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

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, Independence, Iowa on March 15, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble.  Also attending:  Superintendent Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, building administrators and Jenna Cooksley.  Due to the CDC’s social distancing recommendations in-person attendance was limited to the School Board members, administrators and presenter.  Members of the public were able to view the meeting via a live stream on the Independence Community School’s Facebook page.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

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

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

A. Approval of the minutes of the public hearing and regular meeting on February 15, 2021.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

C. Approval of Resignations

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

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Smith reviewed the bills – Sornson - April

     2.  Budget Report                                                                                                                              

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public.  None.

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Smith, Hansen and Sornson stated they were judges for the District FFA Contest that the chapter hosted this past weekend and all were impressed with the organization and talent of the students.  Congratulations to those members that participated in the District FFA contest and also the students that participated in the State Speech Contest.  Sornson wanted to thank the Buchanan Co Public Health and all the organizations that helped with the COVID vaccinations this past Friday, as it was such a smooth process.    Superintendent Reiter also thanked Public Health for the clinics and working with the schools to schedule the vaccinations for Fridays. There will be one more clinic to finalize the second round.  The annual budget will be published in this week’s paper with a public hearing on March 29^th at 6:00 pm at the Administration Office.  The school’s tax rate will have a significant drop from $15.14 to $13.92.  The decrease is due mainly to refinancing the bonds and a decrease in the management levy.  Reiter and Morine have been working on a tentative budget for the ESSER II funds. The ESSER III funds could be significant, so reseach will be done into possibly upgrading ventilation and air filtration systems.   For the March 29^th meeting, a walk thru of the West Construction project will start at 5:30, followed by public hearing at 6 pm and a zoom meeting with Nick Brown  from Becker & Associations on health insurance.

C. Presentations

     1.  English Language Learners (ELL) Program – Jenna Cooksley and Erin Burmeister

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. Return to Learn Plan Update – The district is starting to adjust integrating students in to larger cohorts.   Monday, March 15^th was the districts first virtual learning day due to weather.  Information will be gathered to see how it went.