2020-21 BOARD MINUTES

2020-21 BOARD MINUTES

Click on the links below to view school board meeting minutes for the 2020-21 school year.

 

jen@iowaschool… Wed, 06/16/2021 - 20:57

Board Minutes - 2020.07.09

Board Minutes - 2020.07.09

A special meeting of the Independence Community School Board was held electronically via Zoom and on Facebook Live.  The meeting was called to order at 11:00 am by Chair Eric Smith on July 9, 2020. Members attending: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russell Reiter, Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Matt O’Loughlin was absent.

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

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

 

A. Approval of Resignations/Retirements

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Angie Bonefas

ECC/East Elem Instructional Coach

07/03/2020

 

 

B.  Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Todd Reed

Grades K-6 Extended Learning Program (ELP)/Talented and Gifted (TAG) Teacher

Grades 5-12 Extended Learning Program (ELP)/Talented and Gifted (TAG) Teacher

$57,031

08/18/2020

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)

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Alicia Conner

West Elem Sp Ed Teacher

$44,293

08/17/2020

Chris Harbaugh

JSH Professional School Counselor

$58,738*

08/17/2020

Hayley Krogh

East Elem 2nd Grade Teacher

$39,198

08/17/2020

McKinley Meyer

JSH Social Studies Teacher

$39,198

08/17/2020

Danielle Miller

East Elem Sp Ed Teacher

$64,037

08/17/2020

Austin Pink

JSH PE Teacher

$51,299

08/17/2020

Megan Slessor

Elem .5 FTE Extended Learning Program (ELP)/Talented and Gifted (TAG) Teacher

$28,834

08/17/2020

 

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

 

jen@iowaschool… Wed, 06/16/2021 - 20:59

Board Minutes - 2020.07.20

Board Minutes - 2020.07.20

The regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 pm by Chair Eric Smith on July 20, 2020 at the HS Auditorium.  Members attending: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russell Reiter, Board Secretary Laura Morine as well as administrators and directors.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

501.9* and 501.9E1 (new)

Student Absences – Excused and Request for Remote Learning Form

2.

601.2*

School Day

3.

604.12 (new)

Appropriate Use of Online learning Platforms

4.

907 (new) and 907.R1 (new)

District Operation During Public Emergencies and District Operations During a Public Health Emergency Regulation

 

    C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Gail Burlage

JSH 5.5 hr Cook/Food Service Worker

06/30/2020

Kayla Degenhardt-Johnson

East Elem 4.5 hr At-Risk Para

07/07/2020

Marilyn Oline

JSH 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

07/08/2020

Kay Reidy

Small Group Speech Director

06/30/2020

Kay Reidy

.5 FTE HS Play Director

06/30/2020

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Richard Wearmouth

Bus Garage 4.0 hr/day Bus Driver

$17.75/hr

08/24/2020

 

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

 

jen@iowaschool… Wed, 06/16/2021 - 21:00

Board Minutes - 2020.07.29

Board Minutes - 2020.07.29

A special meeting of the Independence Community School Board was held electronically via Zoom and on Facebook Live.  The meeting was called to order at 6:00 pm by Chair Eric Smith on July 29, 2020. Members attending: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, Matt O’Loughlin, Superintendent Russell Reiter, Board Secretary Laura Morine.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA –Hansen moved to approve the agenda.  Sornson 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 Transfers/Reassignments

 

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Joan Goedken

East Elem 2nd Grade Teacher

East Elem Title I Teacher

$70,495

08/18/2020

Kerry Pasker

East Elem Title I Teacher and District Wide Interventionist/             Title I Curriculum Leader

ECC/East and West Elem Grades PK-6 Instructional Coach

$65,629 + $8,500

08/2020

 

 

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)

 

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Jon Carey

JSH Mentor Teacher – Social Studies

$2,000

08/17/2020

Sonya Elzey

JSH Capturing Kids Hearts Initiative Leader

$1,500

08/2020

Matt Miller

JSH Social Studies Curriculum Leader

$4,500

08/2020

 

 

OLD BUSINESS

  1.  Consider Approval of the 2020-2021 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook.  O’Loughlin moved to approve the 2020-2021 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Consider Approval of the Point of Beginning Survey Services Contract to Survey the West Elementary Site – Hansen moved to approve the Point of Beginning Survey Services Contract to Survey the West Elementary Site.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
  2. Consider Approval of the Amendment of the Independence Teachers’ Association (ITA) Contract for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 – Hansen moved to approve the Amendment of the Independence Teachers’ Association (ITA) Contract for Fiscal Year 2020-2021.   Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.
  3. Consider Approval of the Resolution Recognizing the ITA and the ICSD Desire for Increased Supplemental State Aid. – Hanson moved to approve the Resolution Recognizing the ITA and the ICSD Desire for Increased Supplemental State Aid.  O’Loughlin second.  Roll call vote:  Smith – aye, Sornson – aye, Trimble – aye, Hansen – aye, O’Loughlin – aye. Motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – O’Loughlin moved to adjourn the meeting. Sornson second, motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 6:16 pm.

 

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:25

Board Minutes - 2020.08.17

Board Minutes - 2020.08.17

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chairman Eric Smith at the Administration Building, Independence, Iowa on August 17, 2020.  Board Members present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russell Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Guests included the building administrators, directors and a newspaper representative.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

103, 103.E1*, 103.E2, 103.E3, 103.E4, 103.E5, 103.E6, and 103.R1

Equal Educational Opportunity, Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination, Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination, Section 504 Student and Parental Rights, Complaint Form, Witness Disclosure Form, Disposition of Complaint Form, and Grievance Procedure

2.

106 (rewrite), 106.E1, 106.E2, 106.E3, 106.R1 (rewrite),

Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment Policy, Complaint Form, Witness Disclosure Form, Disposition of Complaint Form, Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment Investigation Procedures

3.

108 (new)

Discrimination and Harassment Based on Sex Prohibited

4.

302.4*

Administration and Area Education Agency

5.

303.7*

Superintendent Civic Activities

6.

304.1*

Administrative Positions

7.

304.8*

Administrator Civic Activities

8.

401.2*

Equal Employment Opportunity

9.

402.2*

Child Abuse Reporting

10.

403.7*, 403.7E1*, 403.7E2, 403.7E3,

403.7E4, 403.7E5, 403.7E6 (new), and 403.7R1

Drug and Alcohol Testing Program, Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Notice to Employees, Certification from Current Employer Participating in Drug and Alcohol Program, Certification of Previous Employers Requiring Commercial Driver’s License Consent to Release Information to Independence Community School District, Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Acknowledgement Form, Drug and Alcohol Reasonable Suspicion Observation Form, Drug and Alcohol Program and Pre-Employment Testing Written Consent to Share Information, and Drug and Alcohol Testing Program

 

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

11.

409.1*

Employee Vacation – Holidays

12.

409.2 (rewrite), 409.2E1 (new, 409.2E2 (new)

Employee Leave of Absence and Emergency Paid Sick Leave Request Form Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), and Expanded Family and Medical Leave Request Form Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), 

13.

409.3* and 409.3E1*

Employee Family and Medical Leave and Leave Notice to Employees

14.

409.4 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Bereavement Leave

15.

409.5 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Political Leave

16.

409.6 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Jury Duty Leave

17.

409.7 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Military Service Leave

18.

414.1 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Vacations – Holidays – Personal Leave

19.

414.2 (rescinded)

Classified Personal Illness Leave

20.

414.3 and 414.3E1 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Family and Medical Leave and Classified Employee Family and Medical leave Notice to Employees

21.

414.4 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Bereavement Leave

22.

414.5 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Political Leave

23.

414.6 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Jury Duty Leave

24.

414.7 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Military Service Leave

 

      C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Tracy Curtis

JSH Math Teacher

08/10/2020

Brenda Good

Bus Garage 4.0 hr Bus Driver

08/05/2020

Karlie Niedert

Assistant Volleyball Coach

08/12/2020

Bryce Rigdon

Assistant Boys Basketball Coach

07/27/2020

Bryce Rigdon

Assistant Baseball Coach

07/27/2020

 

D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Leah Zweigle

West Elem 3.0 hr Dishwasher

JSH 5.5 hr Cook/FS Worker

$10.60/hr

08/24/2020

 

       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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Aaron Atwood-Blaine

JSH Math Teacher

$61,731*

08/17/2020

Lori Bowers

District Wide Interventionist/Title I Curriculum Leader

$4,500

08/2020

Emma Flaucher

West Elem 3.0 hr Dishwasher/Food Service Worker

$10.30/hr

08/24/2020

Kate Grover

East Elem 2nd Grade Teacher

$46,100*

08/17/2020

Alyssa Hawkins

Assistant Volleyball Coach

$2,668

08/17/2020

Dana Mikel

West Elem Google Classroom Initiative Leader

$1,500

08/2020

Kelly Mitchell

East Elem Seesaw Initiative Leader

$1,500

08/2020

Megan Rawlins

JH Volleyball Coach

$2,309

08/10/2020

Jessica Willman

East Elem Mentor Teacher – 2nd Grade

$2,000

08/2020

 

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 24th.   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 31st 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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:27

Board Minutes - 2020.08.31

Board Minutes - 2020.08.31

A work session of the Independence Community School Board started at 6:00 pm in the Jr/Sr High School Auditorium. Board members attending: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Jennifer Sornson and Matt O’Loughlin.  Superintendent Russell Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine. Presenters: Mark Becker & Nick Brown.  Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

SUPERINTENDENT’S RETURN TO SCHOOL UPDATE - Superintendent Reiter gave a Return to School update as we have completed 6 days of school. Supt. Reiter reported that the school year has had a great start. Staff and students are adjusting on the fly, but the Return to School Plan was a solid plan.  There haven’t been any issues with face masks.  A second shuttle bus route was added and all COVID expenses are being tracked.

INSURANCE – Mark Becker and Nick Brown from Mark J. Becker & Associates, LLC presented an overview of how the partial self-funding insurance works for the district health insurance plan.

ADJOURNMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the work session.   Hansen second, motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 6:43 pm.

 

EXEMPT SESSION – Jr/Sr High School Library

Negotiations Strategy Session

The board started an exempt session at 6:47 pm in the Jr/Sr High School Library to discuss negotiations strategies for the next year.  This session ended at 7:45 pm and no official business took place during the session.    

 

___________________________________              _______________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chairperson                                                             Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Tue, 06/29/2021 - 22:38

Board Minutes - 2020.09.21

Board Minutes - 2020.09.21

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chairman Eric Smith at the Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on September 21, 2020.  Board Members present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russell Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Guests included the building administrators, directors and a newspaper representative.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

103, 103.E1*, 103.E2, 103.E3, 103.E4, 103.E5, 103.E6, and 103.R1

Equal Educational Opportunity, Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination, Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination, Section 504 Student and Parental Rights, Complaint Form, Witness Disclosure Form, Disposition of Complaint Form, and Grievance Procedure

2.

106 (rewrite), 106.E1, 106.E2, 106.E3, 106.R1 (rewrite),

Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment Policy, Complaint Form, Witness Disclosure Form, Disposition of Complaint Form, Anti-Bullying/Anti-Harassment Investigation Procedures

3.

108 (new)

Discrimination and Harassment Based on Sex Prohibited

4.

302.4*

Administration and Area Education Agency

5.

303.7*

Superintendent Civic Activities

6.

304.1*

Administrative Positions

7.

304.8*

Administrator Civic Activities

8.

401.2*

Equal Employment Opportunity

9.

402.2*

Child Abuse Reporting

10.

403.7*, 403.7E1*, 403.7E2, 403.7E3,

403.7E4, 403.7E5, 403.7E6 (new), and 403.7R1*

Drug and Alcohol Testing Program, Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Notice to Employees, Certification from Current Employer Participating in Drug and Alcohol Program, Certification of Previous Employers Requiring Commercial Driver’s License Consent to Release Information to Independence Community School District, Drug and Alcohol Testing Program Acknowledgement Form, Drug and Alcohol Reasonable Suspicion Observation Form, Drug and Alcohol Program and Pre-Employment Testing Written Consent to Share Information, and Drug and Alcohol Testing Program

11.

409.1*

Employee Vacation – Holidays

 

12.

409.2 (rewrite), 409.2E1 (new, 409.2E2 (new)

Employee Leave of Absence and Emergency Paid Sick Leave Request Form Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), and Expanded Family and Medical Leave Request Form Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), 

13.

409.3* and 409.3E1*

Employee Family and Medical Leave and Leave Notice to Employees

14.

409.4 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Bereavement Leave

15.

409.5 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Political Leave

16.

409.6 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Jury Duty Leave

17.

409.7 (rescinded)

Licensed Employee Military Service Leave

18.

414.1 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Vacations – Holidays – Personal Leave

19.

414.2 (rescinded)

Classified Personal Illness Leave

20.

414.3 and 414.3E1 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Family and Medical Leave and Classified Employee Family and Medical leave Notice to Employees

21.

414.4 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Bereavement Leave

22.

414.5 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Political Leave

23.

414.6 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Jury Duty Leave

24.

414.7 (rescinded)

Classified Employee Military Service Leave

 

First Readings:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

800

Objectives of Buildings & Sites

2.

801.1

Buildings & Sites Long Range Planning

3.

801.2

Buildings & Sites Surveys

4.

801.3

Educational Specifications for Buildings & Sites

5.

801.4

Selection of an Architect

6.

801.5

Site Acquisition

7.

801.7

Financing Sites & Construction

8.

801.8

Supervision of Construction

9.

802.1

Maintenance Schedule

10.

802.2

Requests for Improvements

11.

802.3

Emergency Repairs

12.

802.4, 802.4R1, and 802.4R2

Capital Assets, Capital Assets Regulation, and Capital Assets Management System Definitions

13.

802.5

Buildings & Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

14.

802.6

Parking

 

 

C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Bob Beatty

JH Football Coach

08/10/2020

Mindy Jenkins

West Elem Sp Ed Teacher

08/17/2020

Junior Rodnez

JSH 8.0 hr Custodian

08/31/2020

 

 

D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Chad Beatty

.5 FTE JH Football Coach

1.0 FTE JH Football Coach

$1,732

08/10/2020

Gina Homan

.5 FTE HS Play Director

1.0 FTE HS Play Director

$2,078

08/24/2020

 

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Emma Boots

JSH 8.0 hr Night Custodian

$11.30/hr + $581 pro-rated night stipend

09/01/2020

Brenda Cashen

JSH 8.0 hr Night Custodian

$13.00/hr + $546 pro-rated night stipend

09/21/2020

Hugh Deberg

Head Girls Basketball Coach

$5,079

11/16/2020

Margaret Hall

Bus Garage 6.5 hr Van Driver

$12.85/hr

08/31/2020

Sandy Hart

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.30/hr

09/03/2020

Charity Houlton-Oien

West Elem Sp Ed Teacher

$45,896

09/02/2020

Richard Morris

Bus Garage 4.0 hr Bus Driver

$17.75/hr

08/24/2020

Kristi Price

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.30/hr

09/10/2020

Kayla Roder

JSH 8.0 hr Night Custodian

$13.20/hr + $560 pro-rated night stipend

09/14/2020

Josh Troutman

.5 FTE JH Football Coach

$802

08/10/2020

Kristy Ward

JSH 7.5 hr Assistant to the Director of Food Service

$15.50/hr

09/21/2020

Rebecca Wearmouth

Bus Garage 3.0 hr Bus Driver

$17.55/hr

08/24/2020

 

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 15th, 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

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 13:48

Board Minutes - 2020.09.30

Board Minutes - 2020.09.30

A work session of the Independence Community School Board started at 6:00 p.m. at the Administration Office, Independence, Iowa on September 30, 2020.  Board Members present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russell Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Guest: Harry Heiligenthal. 

Harry Heiligenthal, Associate Executive Director of the Iowa School Board Association led a professional development workshop for the board to review the roles of a board member. The board had planned this workshop for the spring of 2020 but due to COVID-19 this was the earliest we could meet with Mr. Heiligenthal.   No official action was taken by the board during this workshop.

The workshop ended at 7:30 pm.

 

___________________________________     ___________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chairman                                                    Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 13:51

Board Minutes - 2020.10.19

Board Minutes - 2020.10.19

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on October 19, 2020.  Board Members present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russell Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Guests included the building administrators, directors and a newspaper representative.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

800

Objectives of Buildings & Sites

2.

801.1

Buildings & Sites Long Range Planning

3.

801.2

Buildings & Sites Surveys

4.

801.3

Educational Specifications for Buildings & Sites

5.

801.4

Selection of an Architect

6.

801.5

Site Acquisition

7.

801.7

Financing Sites & Construction

8.

801.8

Supervision of Construction

9.

802.1

Maintenance Schedule

10.

802.2*

Requests for Improvements

11.

802.3

Emergency Repairs

12.

802.4, 802.4R1, and 802.4R2

Capital Assets, Capital Assets Regulation, and Capital Assets Management System Definitions

13.

802.5

Buildings & Sites Adaptation for Persons with Disabilities

14.

802.6

Parking

 

First Readings:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

802.7

Vandalism

2.

802.8

Energy Conservation

3.

802.9

Contract for Maintenance Services

4.

802.10

Intangible Assets

5.

803.1

Disposition of Obsolete Equipment

6.

803.2

Lease, Sale or Disposal of School District Buildings and Sites

7.

803.3

Vacant Facilities

8.

804.1

Facilities Inspections

9.

804.2

District Emergency Operations Plans

10.

804.3

First Aid

 

11.

804.4

Facilities Security

12.

804.5

Employee Safety Inservice

13.

804.7

Asbestos Containing Material

14.

804.8

Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injector Supply

 

C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Chelsey Preuss

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

09/25/2020

 

 

D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Theresa Hocken

East Elem 5.5 hr Food Service

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.60/hr

10/19/2020

Sue Hogan

JSH 5.5 hr Food Service

East Elem 5.5 hr Food Service

$10.60/hr

10/19/2020

 

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Kyle Eilers

JSH 3.0 hr Dishwasher

$10.30/hr

10/19/2020

Deborah Hammond

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.30/hr

10/12/2020

Eryca Hingtgen-Bass

Assistant Girls Basketball Coach

$3,181

11/01/2020

John Howard

JH Girls Basketball Coach

$2,309

10/19/2020

Cindy Michels

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.30/hr

10/12/2020

Nicholas Miller

JSH 8.0 hr Night Custodian

$11.30/hr + $525 pro-rated night stipend

09/29/2020

 

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 21st 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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 13:53

Board Minutes - 2020.11.16 - Annual Meeting

Board Minutes - 2020.11.16 - Annual Meeting

The annual meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Board Secretary Morine at the Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on November 16, 2020.  Those physically present: Eric Smith, Board Secretary Laura Morine, Steve Noyes and newspaper representative. Board members attending virtually:  Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble, along with building administrators and directors. Supt. Reiter was absent. 

  1. Election of a President of the Board-Morine called for nominations for President.   Hansen nominated Smith, O’Loughlin nominated Sornson, Smith nominated Hansen.  Voting was done by board members texting the Board Secretary.   Results: Trimble-Smith, Sornson-Sornson, O’Loughlin-Sornson, Hansen-Smith, Smith-Hansen.  There was a tie between Smith and Sornson, so another vote was called. Results from 2nd Vote: Trimble- Smith, Sornson – Sornson, O’Loughlin – Sornson, Hansen -Smith, Smith-Smith.  Smith was elected as President and Morine issued the Oath of Office and Smith presided over the rest of the meeting.
     
  2. Election of a Vice President of the Board – Smith called for nominations.   Sornson nominated O’Loughlin, Trimble nominated Hansen.  Vote was done by board members texting Board Secretary.   Results: Trimble-Hansen, Sornson-O’Loughlin, O’Loughlin-O’Loughlin, Hansen-Hansen, Smith-Hansen. Hansen was elected as Vice President and Morine issued the Oath of Office
     
  3. Set Regular Board Meeting Dates, Time and Location for 2020-2021 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Regular Board Meeting Dates, Time and Location for 2020-2021.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

       2020-2021 Proposed School Board Meetings at 6:00 p.m. in the Central Office Boardroom.   (3rd Monday of the Month)

       December 21, 2020                                              

       January 18, 2021

       February 15, 2021

       March 15, 2021

       April 19, 2021

       May 17, 2021

       June 21, 2021

       July 19, 2021

       August 16, 2021

       September 20, 2021

       October 18, 2021

       November 15, 2021

      

  1.  Roll Call Vote Order for 2020-2021 – Trimble moved to approve the Roll Call Vote Order for 2020-2021.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

Dec/Jan/Feb               O’Loughlin, Hansen, Smith, Sornson, Trimble

Mar/Apr                     Hansen, Smith, Sornson, Trimble, O’Loughlin

May/June                   Smith, Sornson, Trimble, O’Loughlin, Hansen

July/Aug/Sept            Sornson, Trimble, O’Loughlin, Hansen, Smith,

            Oct/Nov                      Trimble, O’Loughlin, Hansen, Smith, Sornson

 

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

Committee

 1.  Extra-Curricular Activities   

 2.  IASB – Delegate Assembly (represents ICSD 

                   at the 2021 IASB Delegate Assembly)

 3.  Mustang Foundation Board of Directors

 4.  Calendar Committee                   

 5.  School Improvement Advisory Committee - SIAC

 6.  Mentor/Volunteer Advisory Board

 7.  Career and Technical Advisory Committee  

 8.  Indee Agriculture Education

 9. Construction Oversite and Traffic Flow Committee

10. Tree and Landscaping Committee

11. Auditorium Marketing Committee

12. Buchanan County Conference Board

13. Paver/Trail Funds Committee

14. Salary Compensation Advisory Committee

15. Benefit Advisory Committee

16. City Council Liaisons

Current Member

 O’Loughlin & Trimble

 Smith

 

 Sornson & Hansen

 Trimble

 Hansen

 Smith

 Sornson

 Sornson

 Trimble & Smith

 Hansen

 O’Loughlin & Hansen

 Hansen

 O’Loughlin

 Smith & O’Loughlin

 New for 2020-2021

 Brandon/Rowley - Smith                

 Independence - The rest 

 of the Board will rotate 

 based on bill review month.

New Member

    No change

   No change

 

   No change

   Sornson

   No change

   No change

   No change

   No change

   Smith & Hansen

   No change

   No change

   Trimble

   No change

   No change

   Trimble

   No change

 

 

NEW BUSINESS

A. Consider Approval of Ahlers & Cooney, P.C., Lynch Dallas, P.C., and Wilson, Elser, Moskowitz, Edelman, and Dicker LLP as Legal Counsels for the District and Board of Directors.  Trimble moved to approve the Ahlers & Cooney, P.C., Lynch Dallas, P.C., and Wilson, Elser, Moskowitz, Edelman, and Dicker LLP as Legal Counsels for the District and Board of Directors.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

  1. Consider Approval of Resolution Naming Depositories – Hansen moved to approve the Resolution Naming Depositories.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.
  1. Consider Approval of Resolution to Pay Bills When the Board is Not in Session – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Resolution to Pay Bills When the Board is Not in Session.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.
  1. Consider Approval of Resolution to Issue Payroll – Sornson moved to approve the Resolution to Issue Payroll.   Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
  1. Consider Approval of Resolution to Authorize the Use of a Check Protector and Signer and the Proper Control of the Signer – Trimble moved to approve the Resolution to Authorize the Use of a Check Protector and Signer and the Proper Control of the Signer.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
  1. Discussion of Licensed Employee Early Retirement Plan Board Policy 407.3 and 407.4 and Certified Staff Early Notification Incentive.  Board discussed these items and felt they needed more information.
  1. Consider Approval of Licensed Employee Early Retirement Plan Policy 407.3 and 407.4 First Reading – Agenda item died due to the lack of a motion.

 

ADJOURNMENT – Sornson moved to adjourn.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0. The Annual meeting was adjourned at 8:08 pm.

 

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:14

Board Minutes - 2020.11.16

Board Minutes - 2020.11.16

PUBLIC HEARING
The Public Hearing to Continue Participation in the Instructional Support Program for the District started at 5:50 p.m. at the Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on November 16, 2020. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.  No public comments were presented.   Public Hearing adjourned at 6:00 pm. 

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 Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on November 16, 2020.    Those physically present: Eric Smith, Board Secretary Laura Morine, Steve Noyes and newspaper representative. Board members attending virtually:  Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble, along with building administrators and directors. Supt. Reiter was absent. 

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

802.7

Vandalism

2.

802.8

Energy Conservation

3.

802.9

Contract for Maintenance Services

4.

802.10

Intangible Assets

5.

803.1

Disposition of Obsolete Equipment

6.

803.2

Lease, Sale or Disposal of School District Buildings and Sites

7.

803.3

Vacant Facilities

8.

804.1

Facilities Inspections

9.

804.2

District Emergency Operations Plans

10.

804.3

First Aid

11.

804.4

Facilities Security

12.

804.5

Employee Safety Inservice

13.

804.7

Asbestos Containing Material

14.

804.8

Stock Epinephrine Auto-Injector Supply

 

First Readings:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

900

Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

2.

901.1

Public Examination of School District Records

3.

901.2

Board of Directors and Community Relations

4.

902.1

News Media Relations

5.

902.2

News Conferences and Interviews

6.

902.3

News Releases

7.

902.4

Students and the News Media

 

8.

902.5

Employees and the News Media

9.

902.6

Live Broadcast or Videotaping

10.

902.7

Unmanned Aircraft or Aerial Systems

11.

903

Other Intradistrict Relations

12.

904.1

School - Community Groups

13.

904.2

Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

14.

904.3 and 904.3E1

Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites and Volunteer Interest Information

15.

904.4

Public Conduct on School Premises

16.

904.5 and 904.5R1

Distribution of Materials and Distribution of Materials Regulation

17.

905.1

Transporting Students in Private Vehicles

18.

905.2

Advertising and Promotion

19.

906.1 and 906.1E1

Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment

20.

906.2

Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment

21.

907 and 907.R1

District Operations During Public Emergencies and District Operations During a Public Health Emergency Regulation

 

C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Mark Geertsma

Assistant Girls Basketball Coach

10/28/2020

Robert Hocken

Bus Garage 4.25 hr Bus Driver

10/28/2020

Heather Nefzger

JH Cross Country Coach

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Ryan Ruffcorn

JH Boys Basketball Coach

11/03/2020

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Brad Arnold

Assistant Boys Basketball Coach

$2,771

11/16/2020

Matt Fuelling

JH Boys Basketball Coach

$1,603

12/17/2020

Kayla Kanellis

Elementary Remote Learning Teacher

$26,927 (pro-rated for BA 1st Year Teacher)

11/13/2020

 

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.
  1. 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.
  1. Comments from the Superintendent – Supt Reiter was not present.
     
  2. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:09

Board Minutes - 2020.11.30

Board Minutes - 2020.11.30

A special 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 November 30, 2020.  Attending in person:  Eric Smith and Supt. Russ Reiter.  Attending via Zoom: Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Guests Zoom attendees included the building administrator.

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

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Remote Learning Status – Supt. Reiter and the administration team reviewed the process and data used to decide to go to remote learning from November 30th to December 3rd.  Board members and administration talked about remote learning, the hybrid model and having students in the class room. All present agreed that having the students in the building was best for students, but consideration needs to be taken regarding COVID-19. The administration will watch the numbers to see if there is a spike after the Thanksgiving break and decide at the end of the week what the return of students will look like.

ADJOURMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting adjourned at 6:56 pm.

                                                                                               

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:06

Board Minutes - 2020.12.21

Board Minutes - 2020.12.21

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Independence Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, IA on December 21, 2020.  Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson, and Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russ Reiter and Acting Secretary Nikki Sidles.  Guests included the building administrators, directors, a school nurse and 2 ELP Teachers.   Absent from the meeting:  John Howard and Laura Morine.  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 - Hansen moved to approve the consent items with the exception of  policy 904.3, where the phrase “Volunteer sport coaches/assistants” will be maintained in the categories of volunteers included in screening statements .  O'Loughlin seconded, motion carried 5-0. 

A. Approval of the minutes of public hearing and regular meeting on November 16, 2020 and the annual meeting on November 16, 2020, and the special meeting on November 30, 2020.

 

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

 

 

Second Readings:

 

 

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

900

Principles and Objectives for Community Relations

2.

901.1

Public Examination of School District Records

3.

901.2

Board of Directors and Community Relations

4.

902.1

News Media Relations

5.

902.2

News Conferences and Interviews

6.

902.3

News Releases

7.

902.4

Students and the News Media

8.

902.5

Employees and the News Media

9.

902.6

Live Broadcast or Videotaping

10.

902.7

Unmanned Aircraft or Aerial Systems

11.

903

Other Intradistrict Relations

12.

904.1

School - Community Groups

13.

904.2

Community Resource Persons and Volunteers

 

14.

904.3* and 904.3E1

Visitors to School District Buildings and Sites and Volunteer Interest Information

15.

904.4

Public Conduct on School Premises

16.

904.5 and 904.5R1

Distribution of Materials and Distribution of Materials Regulation

17.

905.1

Transporting Students in Private Vehicles

18.

905.2

Advertising and Promotion

19.

906.1 and 906.1E1

Community Use of School District Facilities and Equipment

20.

906.2

Tobacco/Nicotine-Free Environment

21.

907 and 907.R1

District Operations During Public Emergencies and District Operations During a Public Health Emergency Regulation

 

 

First Readings:

 

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

300

Role of School District Administration

2.

301.1

Management

3.

302.1

Administration and Board of Directors

4.

302.2

Administration and Employees

5.

302.3

Administration and Adjoining District Administration

6.

103*, 103.E1, 103.E2, 103.E3, 103.E4*, 103.E5, 103.E6, and 103.R1

Equal Educational Opportunity, Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination, Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination, Section 504 Student and Parental Rights, Discrimination Complaint Form, Witness Disclosure Form, Disposition of Complaint Form, and Grievance Procedure

7.

500 (rescinded)

Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

8.

701.5*

Financial Records

9.

705.1, 705.1R1*, and 705.1R2 (new)

Purchasing – Bidding, Suspension and Debarment of Vendors and Contractors Procedure, and Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts

 

 

C. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

 

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Nicole Troyer

ECC .5 FTE ECSE Teacher

ECC 1.0 FTE ECSE Teacher

$27,360

11/30/2020

 

 

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

 

 

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Madison Corkery

Assistant Large Group Speech Director

$1,283

12/14/2020

Seth Rupprecht

JSH .75 FTE At-Risk Teacher

BA 0 ($12,617)*

TBD*

*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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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. .

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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

 

  1. 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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:29

Board Minutes - 2021.01.18

Board Minutes - 2021.01.18

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the Independence Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, IA on January 18, 2021.  Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson, and Gina Trimble, Superintendent Russ Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Guests included the building administrators, directors, CRAEA rep Josh Johnson.   Absent from the meeting:  Cheri Reed, Justin Putz, and Chad O’Brien.  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 regular meeting on December 21, 2020.

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

 

Second Readings:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

300

Role of School District Administration

2.

301.1

Management

3.

302.1

Administration and Board of Directors

4.

302.2

Administration and Employees

5.

302.3

Administration and Adjoining District Administration

6.

103*, 103.E1, 103.E2, 103.E3, 103.E4*, 103.E5, 103.E6, and 103.R1

Equal Educational Opportunity, Annual Notice of Nondiscrimination, Continuous Notice of Nondiscrimination, Section 504 Student and Parental Rights, Discrimination Complaint Form, Witness Disclosure Form, Disposition of Complaint Form, and Grievance Procedure

7.

500 (rescinded)

Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students

8.

701.5*

Financial Records

9.

705.1, 705.1R1*, and 705.1R2 (new)

Purchasing – Bidding, Suspension and Debarment of Vendors and Contractors Procedure, and Using Federal Funds in Procurement Contracts

 

First Readings:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

303.1

Superintendent Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

2.

303.2

Superintendent Contract and Contract Nonrenewal

3.

303.3

Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation

4.

303.4

Superintendent Duties

5.

303.5

Superintendent Evaluation

6.

303.6

Superintendent Professional Development

7.

303.7

Superintendent Civic Activities

8.

303.8

Superintendent Consulting/Outside Employment

9.

304.2

Administrator Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

10.

304.3

Administrator Contract and Contract Nonrenewal

11.

304.4

Administrator Salary and Other Compensation

12.

304.5

Administrator Duties

13.

304.6

Administrator Evaluation

14.

304.7

Administrator Professional Development

 

15..

304.8

Administrator Civic Activities

16.

305

Reduction in Administrative Positions

17.

306.1

Development and Enforcement of Administrative Regulations

18.

306.2

Monitoring of Administrative Regulations

19.

307

Administrator Code of Ethics

20.

308

Succession of Authority to the Superintendent

21.

309

Communication Channels

22.

409.2*, 409.2E1 (rescinded), and 409.2E2 (rescinded)

Employee Leave of Absence, Emergency Paid Sick Leave Request Form Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), and Expanded Family and Medical Leave Request Form Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)

I am requesting the Board waive the second reading of this policy and the rescinded exhibits as COVID -19 leave will be address in new business.

23.

503.1* and 503.1R1

Student Conduct and Student Suspension

I am requesting the Board waive the second reading of this policy and regulation.

24.

503.5*

Corporal Punishment, Mechanical Restraint and Prone Restraint

I am requesting the Board waive the second reading of this policy.

25.

503.6, 503.6E1, 503.6E2, 506.3E3, and 506.3R1

(All New) 

Physical Restraint and Seclusion of Students, Use of Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion Documentation Form, Debriefing Letter to Guardian of Student Involved in an Occurrence Where Physical Restraint and/or Seclusion was Used, Debriefing Meeting Document, and Use of Physical Restraint and Seclusion with Students

I am requesting the Board waive the second reading of this policy, the exhibits and the resolution.

 

C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Chad Beatty

JH Football Coach

01/12/2021

Chad Beatty

JH Boys Track Coach

01/12/2021

Beverly Garrigus

Assistant Small Group Speech Numbers Director

01/12/2021

 

 

 

 

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Gina Homan

Small Group Speech Director

$2,155

01/04/2021

Kris Martin

JSH Mentor Teacher – At-Risk

$1,000

01/04/2021

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
  1. 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 17th.  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.
  1. 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.
     
  2. 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.
     
  3. 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

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:41

Board Minutes - 2021.02.15

Board Minutes - 2021.02.15

PUBLIC HEARING

The Public Hearing for the 2021-2020 proposed school calendar started at 5:50 p.m. at the Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on February 15, 2021. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

No public comments were presented.  Supt. Reiter thanked the calendar committee for their time and efforts.   He also reported that with the construction projects at East and West Elementary, the start date could possibly be pushed back a week and the committee has an alternate calendar prepared. If there is a delay, the plans are to announce it at the July 2021 board meeting.  There was overwhelming support to continue the Friday early outs for professional development. Also, Martin Luther King Day will now be a no school day.   Public hearing adjourned at 5:55 pm.

 

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 Jr/Sr High School Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on February 15, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble.  Also attending:  Supt Reiter, Board Secretary Laura Morine, building administrators, Steve Noyes, and guests.                                                                                                          

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

303.1

Superintendent Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

2.

303.2

Superintendent Contract and Contract Nonrenewal

3.

303.3

Superintendent Salary and Other Compensation

4.

303.4

Superintendent Duties

5.

303.5

Superintendent Evaluation

6.

303.6

Superintendent Professional Development

7.

303.7

Superintendent Civic Activities

8.

303.8

Superintendent Consulting/Outside Employment

9.

304.2

Administrator Qualifications, Recruitment, Appointment

10.

304.3

Administrator Contract and Contract Nonrenewal

11.

304.4

Administrator Salary and Other Compensation

12.

304.5

Administrator Duties

13.

304.6

Administrator Evaluation

14.

304.7

Administrator Professional Development

15.

304.8

Administrator Civic Activities

 

Second Readings continued:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

16.

305

Reduction in Administrative Positions

17.

306.1

Development and Enforcement of Administrative Regulations

18.

306.2

Monitoring of Administrative Regulations

19.

307

Administrator Code of Ethics

20.

308

Succession of Authority to the Superintendent

21.

309

Communication Channels

 

First Readings:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

505.6*

Graduation Requirements

 

C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Garry Anderson

JH Volleyball Coach

01/25/2021

Megan Rawlins

JH Volleyball Coach

01/21/2021

Megan Rawlins

JH Girls Basketball Coach

End of 2020-2021 Season

Kayla Roder

JSH 8.0 hr Night Custodian

01/25/2021

 

D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Bob Beatty

JH Boys Track Coach

JH Girls Track Coach

$2,181

02/15/2021

Seth Rupprecht

JSH .75 FTE At-Risk Teacher

JS 1.0 FTE At-Risk Teacher

$17,664

02/01/2021

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Tim Andersen

Assistant Small Group Speech Numbers Director

$1,385

01/04/2021

Chris Harbaugh

JH Boys Track Coach

$1,796

02/15/2021

Eryca Hingtgen-Bass

Assistant Girls Track Coach

$2,873

02/15/2021

McKinley Meyer

JH Boys Track Coach

$1,603

02/15/2021

Brooke Roth

Bus Garage 4.25 hr Bus Driver

$17.75/hr

02/08/2021

Seth Rupprecht

JH Boys and Girls Track Coach

$1,668

02/15/2021

 

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 18th.   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

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 14:45

Board Minutes - 2021.03.15

Board Minutes - 2021.03.15

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:

 

POLICY #

POLICY NAME

1.

505.6*

Graduation Requirement

C. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Hugh DeBerg

Head Girls Basketball Coach

03/10/2021

Mark Geertsma

Assistant Boys Soccer Coach

03/10/2021

Lonnie Hammond

JSH Assistant Girls Basketball Coach

02/23/2021

Sandy Hart

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

02/19/2021

April Loomis

West Elem 7.25 hr Sp Ed Para

02/26/2021

Hilary Peyton

JSH 7.5 hr Media Para

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Rebecca Wearmouth

Bus Garage 3.0 hr Bus Driver

12/31/2020

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Kenzie Fischels

JH Girls Track Coach

$1,603

03/11/2021

Ron Neumann

JSH 8.0 hr Night Custodian

$12.50/hr + $231 pro-rated night stipend

03/03/2021

Aislinn Smith

East Elem 6.0 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.30/hr

03/10/2021

Rylie Tegler

West Elem 6.5 hr Sp Ed Para

$10.30/hr

03/10/2021

 

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 29th 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 29th 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 15th was the districts first virtual learning day due to weather.  Information will be gathered to see how it went.

B. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – Currently construction is a bit ahead of schedule.  The new band room is taking shape as well as the locker rooms.   Smith asked that the board recognize that change orders will need to be approved by the board and he hopes that we can schedule some virtual meetings on the first Mondays of the month as needed, in addition to the regular board meetings.

NEW BUSINESS

A.  Consider Approval of the Cooperative Agreement by and between University of Northern Iowa and Cooperating Educational Agencies for the 2021-2022 Academic Year – Sornson moved to approve the Cooperative Agreement by and between University of Northern Iowa and Cooperating Educational Agencies for the 2021-2022 Academic Year.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

B. Consider Approval of the Agreement of Service between Timberline Billing Service and Independence Community School District for the term of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024 – Trimble moved to approve the Agreement of Service between Timberline Billing Service and Independence Community School District for the term of July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

C.  Consider Approval of the Purchase of Acer Chromebooks from CDWG for 2021-2022 – Hansen moved to approve the Purchase of Acer Chromebooks from CDWG for 2021-2022.   Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – O’Loughlin moved to adjourn the regular meeting.   Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 6:35 pm.

Exempt Session

The board discussed negotiation strategies.   Session ended at 7:45 pm.

 

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:12

Board Minutes - 2021.03.29 - Public Meetings

Board Minutes - 2021.03.29 - Public Meetings

The Public meetings were held on March 29th at the West Elementary Commons Area starting at 4;00 pm.

Present: Supt Reiter, Director of Finance Morine, Board Members: Smith and Hansen.   IESP Negotiation Team: Preuss, Hopkins, Johnson and Miller along with 7 IESP members.

 

FIRST MEETING:

Lisa Preuss from the Independence Educational Support Personnel Association (IESP) presented their initial proposal.

The IESP’s initial proposal:

  • Proposing the establishment of a Labor Management Committee.
  • Proposing a two-year salary increase.  For FY22, an increase of $.50 per hour on base for the paraprofessionals, food service, kitchen manager and secretary.  In addition, all current employees in those categories will receive the base wage increase of $.50/hour plus and additional $.50 per hour.   The custodians will receive an increase of $.50 per hour since their base wage had been increased earlier in the year.  For FY23, a $.50/hour increase on the base for all categories.  In addition, all current employees will receive the base wage increase of $.50/hour plus an additional $.50/hour.  This was approximately a 6.28% increase.

 

SECOND MEETING: (held immediately following the first)

Supt. Reiter thanked the support staff for all the work and changes during the COVID pandemic and looks forward to the next year.

Board initial proposal to the Independence Educational Support Personnel Association (IESP)

  • Remove the Kitchen Managers from the Appendix A
  • Base wage increases of $ .25/hour and existing paraprofessionals, secretary, custodian shall be $.35/hour higher than their current rate.  The food service employees would receive an increase of $ 2.25/hour over their existing wage and $1.95 increase to the base wage.   Total Package increase of 3.26% (Salary 4.20%, Insurance -.50%)
  • Secretarial, paraprofessionals and food service employees shall not be deducted more than 4 work days due to no school in FY22.  The district will offer professional development days for those no school days in excess of 4 days if 75% of the staff participates in the professional development. 

Full disclosure of  all the proposals may be reviewed at the Administration Office.

 

Russell Reiter                                                   Laura Morine
Superintendent                                                 Director of Finance/Board Secretary

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:11

Board Minutes - 2021.03.29

Board Minutes - 2021.03.29

Board of Education had a walkthrough of the West Elementary Building project before the public hearing.

Public Hearing

A public hearing was held at the Administrative Office, Independence, IA on March 29, 2021 at 6:00 pm for amending the 2020-2021 Certified Budget and the proposed 2021-2022 Certified Budget.  Members Present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble.  Superintendent Russell Reiter and Board Secretary Laura Morine.  Due to the CDC’s social distancing recommendations, there was limited in-person attendance.   Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

Morine gave a brief overview of the amendment and certified budget.   Public Hearing ended at 6:04 pm.  

 

Special Meeting

 

A special meeting was called to order at 6:04 pm by Chair Erick Smith at the Administrative Office, Independence, IA on March 29, 2021.  Members Present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble.  Superintendent: Russell Reiter and Board Secretary: Laura Morine.  Due to the CDC’s social distancing recommendations, there was limited in-person attendance.

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

PRESENTATION – Nick Brown from Mark J. Becker & Associates, LLC gave the board an overview of the health insurance renewal.

NEW BUSINESS

Consider Approval of the Amended 2020-2021 Certified Budget – Sornson moved to approve the amended 2020-2021 Certified Budget.   O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

Consider Approval of the Proposed 2021-2022 Certified Budget – Trimble moved to approve the 2021-2022 Certified Budget.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

Consider Approval of Budget Guarantee Resolution for 2021-2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Budget Guarantee Resolution for 2021-2022.   Sornson second. Roll call vote:  Hansen-aye, Smith-aye, Sornson-aye, Trimble-aye, O’Loughlin-aye.  Motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURMENT 

O’Loughlin moved to adjourn the meeting.   Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 6:43 pm.

Exempt Session

The board discussed negotiation strategies.   Session ended at 6:47 pm

 

__________________________________            ________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chairperson                                                      Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:08

Board Minutes - 2021.04.19

Board Minutes - 2021.04.19

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 JSH Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on April 19, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble.  Also attending:  Superintendent Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, Josh Johnson, CRAEA rep and local press. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited along with a moment of silence to honor Sergeant Jim Smith.

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Trimble moved to approve the agenda with the removal of 7D – List of Graduates.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.   Board Policy states that seniors need to have the National Career Readiness Assessment and the board will need to waive the requirement for this year.

 

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

A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on March 15, 2021, the public meetings on March 29, 2021, and the public hearing and special meeting on March 29, 2021.

B. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Mackenzie Hupke

JSH Assistant Softball Coach

04/09/2021

Terri Janaszak

West Elem 5.75 hr Sp Ed Para

End of FY2020-2021

Cindy Michels

East Elem 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

04/09/2021

Vicky Neumann

West Elem 5.5 hr Sp Ed Para

End of FY2020-2021

Megan Slessor

East/West Elem K-4 Extended Learning Program Teacher

End of FY2020-2021

Deb Williams

JSH 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

03/31/2021

 

C. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Kate Grover

East Elem 2nd Grade Teacher

West Elem 3rd Grade Teacher

$46,100*

08/17/2021

Danielle Oaks

West Elem 6th Grade Teacher

West Elem 5th Grade Teacher

$41,432*

08/17/2021

*Pending 2021-2022 Negotiations

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Aaron Atwood-Blaine

JSH Math Teacher

$61,438*

08/17/2021

Kayla Kanellis

East/West Elem Math Interventionist

$40,283*

2 Year Contract**

08/17/2021

Joel Knipe

JSH Band Teacher

$42,581*

08/16/2021

Joel Knipe

JSH Band Director

$4,502*

08/16/2021

Joel Knipe

JSH Summer Band Director

$1,732*

07/01/2021

Hayley Krogh

JSH Assist Boys Soccer Coach

$2,565

3/16/2021

 

Colton Lueck

JSH Math/Science Teacher

$41,432*

Two Year Contract**

08/16/2021

Ross Onken

Bus Garage 4.25 hr Bus Driver

$17.75/hr

05/03/2021

Lisa Preuss

JSH Summer School Para

$15/57/hr

06/14/2021

Seth Rupprecht

JSH Summer School Teacher

$30.00/hr

06/14/2021

Seth Rupprecht

East Elem Sp Ed Teacher

$40,283*

08/17/2021

 

*Pending 2021-2022 Negotiations

**Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Funds

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Sornson reviewed the bills. Trimble to review for May.

     2.  Budget Report

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

  1. Comments from the Public - none
     
  2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Smith expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to everyone for the efforts since the tragic death of Sergeant Smith this past week. There were many items that needed to be juggled to prepare the facility, deal with the grief and continue educating students.  Secondly, IASB is having training on June 9th for the new Superintendent Evaluation tools and hoped the board could do that training as a group.  Hansen echoed Smith appreciation of efforts in preparing for and hosting the funeral in our district. Trimble said how proud she was of the district, community and state during this difficult time and that the Jr/Sr High School would be seen very positively in the eyes of the state with all the time and efforts that were put in. Trimble also wanted to thank all those involved with the prom events over the weekend as it went very well. Sornson echoed the sentiments and stated that we showed perseverance and will continue to be there for the family.  O’Loughlin also thanked everyone and that Independence should be very proud of what we have here.  Superintendent Reiter thanked the Crisis Team and everyone that put in a lot of time into the whole week.  These efforts were noticed and appreciated by many.  He also thanked the Board for approving the time and the use of the facility.  Reiter reported that the amount of Federal ESSER III funds were announced and the district would be receiving about $1.4 million dollars. Twenty percent of these funds needs to be used towards learning loss or academics.   We will try to focus more than the twenty percent of the funds on our students as well as air quality, health and cleanliness of the buildings.
     
  3. Presentations

     1.  Portrait of a Graduate – Erin Burmeister and Josh Johnson gave an update on the progress of the Portrait of a Graduate.   This is a process to help determine what an ICSD graduate should look like. The team will be reaching out to the community and businesses for their input as well.

 

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. Return to Learn Plan Update – Supt. Reiter indicated a lot of work was put into creating the Return to Learn Plan and now we need to know how to plan for the end of the pandemic.  What should that look like?  He will continue to have conversations with the Buchanan County Public Health regarding this.
     
  2. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – The project seems to progressing well and ahead of schedule.  The trusses had arrived without the anticipated delay.  Interior work is also making progress.

 

NEW BUSINESS

      A. Consider Approval of the Construction Change Orders – Hansen moved to approve the two change orders in the amount of $51,724.58.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

  1. Consider Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding with Luther College for the 2021-2022 Academic Year – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Memorandum of Understanding with Luther College for the 2021-2022 Academic Year.   Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  2. Consider Approval of the Iowa Local Government Risk Pool Commission Natural Gas Program Participation Agreement for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Iowa Local Government Risk Pool Commission Natural Gas Program Participation Agreement for July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2022.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  3. Consider Approval of the Independence Community School District Graduate Candidates for 2021 – Struck from the agenda.
     
  4. Consider Approval of the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with Cedar Falls Community Schools for Men’s and Women’s Swimming for 2021-2022 – Sornson moved to approve the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with Cedar Falls Community Schools for Men’s and Women’s Swimming for 2021-2022.  Trimble second motion carried 5-0.
     
  5. Discuss Upcoming School Board Director Vacancy – A resignation letter was received from Director O’Loughlin effective at the conclusion of the May 18th board meeting.  Smith thanked O’Loughlin for his service to the district.  A public notice will be placed in the paper to inform the public of this vacancy.  Since it is less than 180 days before the next regular school board election, the board will appoint to fill the vacancy until November 2021.   In November, election papers will need to be filed in order to be placed on the ballot to finish out the remaining two years of the vacated term.

 

ADJOURNMENT – Sornson moved to adjourn the regular meeting.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.   Meeting was adjourned at 7:00 pm.

 

Exempt Session

The board discussed negotiations strategies.   Session ended at 8:05 pm and no official action was taken during the exempt session.

 

 

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

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:23

Board Minutes - 2021.04.21

Board Minutes - 2021.04.21

A special meeting of the Independence Community School District was called to order by Chair Eric Smith at 6:00 pm on April 21, 2021 at the Administration Building, 1207 1st St West, Independence Iowa.   Smith and Supt. Reiter attended in person.   Hansen, O’Loughlin, Sornson, Trimble and Board Secretary Morine attended via Zoom.    The pledge of allegiance was recited. 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – O’Loughlin moved to approve the agenda.   Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Consider Approval to Waive the National Career Readiness Assessment for the 2020-2021 graduates as per Board Policy 505.6 – Graduation Requirements – Hansen moved to approve waiving the National Career Readiness Assessment for the 2020-2021 graduates as per Board Policy 505.6 – Graduation Requirements.  Trimble second, motion carried 4 – 0.
     
  2. Consider Approval of the Independence Community School District Graduate Candidates for May 20-21.  O’Loughlin moved to approve the Independence Community School District Graduate Candidates for the class of 2021.   Trimble second, motion carried 4-0.

Director Sornson joined the meeting in progress.  Due to technical difficulties she was not admitted when the meeting was called to order.

  1. Consider Approval of the Revision of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022.   Hansen moved to approve the Revision of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting, Hansen second.  Motion carried 5-0 and meeting was adjourned at 6:10 pm.

 

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:27

Board Minutes - 2021.05.05

Board Minutes - 2021.05.05

Public meetings were held at the Administration Office,1207 1st St West, Independence, IA, starting at 4:00 pm on May 5, 2021.  Attending:   Sue Henkes, Chief Negotiator, Hannah Burns, Paul Upmeyer, Brandi Davis, Kelci Jahnel, Tia Shaffer, ISEA Rep Shelly Staker, Supt Russ Reiter, Director of Finance, Board President Smith and Vice President Hansen.

 

FIRST MEETING:

Sue Henkes from the Independence Teacher’s Association (ITA) presented an opening statement.  The ITA then presented their initial proposal to the Independence Community School Board for the 2021-2022 school year.  

The ITA’s initial proposal stated:

  • An interest in developing a compensation system which attracts and retains quality employees and recognized the ever-changing school environment while staying within district budget constraints.
  • An interest in developing a compensation system which advances the salaries for the sponsors and coaches for extra and co-curricular activities in order to attract and retain employees.
  • An interest in participating in training for Interest Based Problem Solving (IBIS) designed to address mutual needs and concerns while fostering and maintaining respectful communications among the parties.
  • An interest in protecting and preserving teaching and planning time within the school day to better serve students.

 

SECOND MEETING: (held immediately following the first)

Supt. Reiter presented the district’s opening statement.

Board initial proposal to the Independence Teacher’s Association (ITA):

  • An interest in the development of a salary compensation model that attracts and retains the finest educators and professionals while staying within today’s budgetary constraints. 
  • An interest in developing a compensation model that is fair and appropriately compensates sponsors and coaches for extra and co-curricular activities.
  • An interest in participating in the “Interest Based Problem Solving” (IBPS) process to address mutual concerns among both parties. We believe that by working together and gaining a shared experience, we can continue to build trust and maintain a respectful working relationship.
  • We have an interest in using ESSER funds appropriately and to understand these funds will provide some short-term opportunities but will not be available after July of 2023.
    • Professional development needs
    • Interventionists
    • Class size reduction

 

Meeting ended at 4:10 pm and the group went into closed session.  Full disclosure of all the initial proposal documents may be reviewed at the Administration Office.

 

Russell Reiter                                                   Laura Morine
Superintendent                                                 Director of Finance/Board Secretary

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:21

Board Minutes - 2021.05.18

Board Minutes - 2021.05.18

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by Chair Eric Smith at the JSH Auditorium, Independence, Iowa on May 18, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Matt O’Loughlin, Jennifer Sornson and Gina Trimble.  Also attending:  Superintendent Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, and local press. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited

FRIENDS OF EDUCATION

A. Iowa School Board Recognition Month – Superintendent Reiter thanked our current Board of Directors for their time, resources and energy in helping make our district the best it can be.  Their dedicated service has not gone unnoticed. 

B. Retiring Teachers – Postponed as the teachers had another engagement for the evening.  

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Trimble moved to approve the agenda with the addition of the transfer of Paul Upmeyer to  .8 FTE Jr High Band/.2 Auditorium Manager from Elementary Band. O’Loughlin 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 April 19, 2021, the special meeting on April 21, 2021, and the public meetings on May 5, 2021.

B. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Kate Barloon

Color Guard Sponsor

04/28/2021

Sandy Johnson

JSH 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Marlyce Kotouc

JSH 7.5 hr Sp Ed Para

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Dean Krempges

District 3.0 hrs/day Grounds and Maintenance

05/01/2021

Richard Mason

Bus Garage 4.0 hr Bus Driver

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Karl Smith

JSH Band Teacher

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Karl Smith

Assistant Band Director

End of 2020-2021 School Year

Karl Smith

Assistant Summer Band

End of 2020-2021 School Year

 

C. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Michael Doyle

JSH .5 Math Teacher & .5 Math/ Science Instructional Coach

JSH 1.0 Math Teacher

$70,580*

08/17/2021

Heather Grover

West Elem 4th Grade Teacher

West Elem 1.0 Grades 3-6 Instructional Coach

$48,825* +

$8,500

07/01/2021

Kate Grover

West Elem 3rd Grade Teacher

East Elem 2nd Grade Teacher

$46,100*

08/17/2021

Christie Litterer

East Elem .75 Guidance Counselor

East Elem 1.0 Guidance Counselor

$56,979*

08/11/2021

Kerry Pasker

PK-6 Instructional Coach

East Elem Title I Teacher

$66,214*

08/17/2021

Kristy Ward

JSH Assist to the Director of Food Service

JSH 7.5 hr Media Para

$10.70/hr

08/18/2021

Paul Upmeyer

.80 Elementary Band/ .20 Auditorium Manager

Jr High Band

$43,729*

08/17/2021

 

*Pending 2021-2022 Negotiations

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Allissa Clauson

West Elem 4th Grade Teacher

$43,729*

08/16/2021

Kelly Mitchell

K-6 Summer School Coordinator

$4,000

06/07/2021

Niccole Roberts

JSH Assist Softball Coach

$2,565

05/07/2021

Logan Schmitt

JSH Assist Baseball Coach

$2,565

05/10/2021

Maddie Timmerman

West Elem 4th Grade Teacher

$40,283*

ESSER Funds

08/16/2021

 

 

 

 

TLC

 

 

 

Instructional Coaches

 

 

 

Hannah Burns

JSH .5 Math and Science

$8,500

07/01/2021

Joel Dinger

JSH .5 Eng/Lang Arts and Social Studies

$8,500

07/01/2021

Erin Rosburg

JSH .5 Grades 7-8 Standards Referenced Grading

$8,500

07/01/2021

Lori Kurt

PK-6 1.0 Special Education

$58,616* +

$8,500

07/01/2021

Curriculum Leaders

 

 

 

LouAnn Bresson

ECC Preschool

$4,500

07/01/2021

Kelly Kress

East Elem Kindergarten, Literacy

$4,500

07/01/2021

Brandi Davis

East Elem 1st Grade, Literacy

$4,500

07/01/2021

Robin Van Raden

East Elem 2nd Grade, Literacy

$4,500

07/01/2021

Brooke Reed

East Elem Kindergarten, Math

$4,500

07/01/2021

Chrissy Kimball

East Elem 1st Grade, Math

$4,500

07/01/2021

Briana Lamphere

East Elem 2nd Grade, Math

$4,500

07/01/2021

Lyndzi Roth

West Elem 3rd Grade

$4,500

07/01/2021

Kirby Holtzman

West Elem 5th Grade

$4,500

07/01/2021

Sara Thome

West Elem 6th Grade

$4,500

07/01/2021

Wade Stahr

JSH CTE (Career Technical Education)

$4,500

07/01/2021

Sue Henkes

JSH English

$4,500

07/01/2021

Jack Goedken

JSH Math

$4,500

07/01/2021

Garry Anderson

JSH Science

$4,500

07/01/2021

Matt Miller

JSH Social Studies

$4,500

07/01/2021

Kerry Pasker

District Wide Interventions

$4,500

07/01/2021

Kelci Jahnel

District Wide Mentoring

$4,500

07/01/2021

 

 

 

 

Initiative Leader

 

 

 

Sonya Elzey

JSH Capturing Kids’ Hearts

$1,500

07/01/2021

 

*Pending 2021-2022 Negotiations

 

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Trimble reviewed the bills – Hansen will review in June

     2.  Budget Report

 

 

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public - none

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Smith extended his congratulations to all the graduates. Hansen and Trimble also congratulated the graduates and recognized the spring sports teams for their success this year.    Supt. Reiter announced that the Legislators approved the waiver for the missed student day due to Sergeant Smith’s funeral.  Students last day will be May 26th, the certified staff will make up the day.  Supt. Reiter had been in contact with Tia Burkhart from Buchanan County Public Health and the Iowa Department of Public Health and the CDC are not in agreements regarding masks.  A special thanks to the retiring support staff for their support of our students and teachers:   Dick Mason, Terri Janaszak, Vicki Neumann, Brenda Hulse, Sandy Johnson and Marlyce Kotouc.

 

C. Presentations

     1.  At-Risk – Kris Martin & 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

  1. Return to Learn Plan Update – Supt. Reiter is working with HSR on HVAC improvements for the West and JSH building.  This expense will be covered by ESSER funds and not the bond proceeds.  Hoping to return to some normalcy for the next school year.  Starting with summer school in July.
     
  2. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – The construction is progressing as planned.
     
  3. Discussion of the Revision of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 – Hansen had questions regarding the IESP contract as not all the verbiage was placed in the contract.  Morine indicated that the language would be placed in the handbook like previous years and what wasn’t in the handbook would be brought to the board when they approved the graduated salary schedule.   Hansen moved to amend the Amendment for the 2021-2022 to the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) contract that was previously adopted on April 21, 2021 to include the following language that was agreed upon during negotiations and appears on the signed tentative agreement:    Add: Days for those no school excess days when set 45 days in advance to #2 in Article VIII – Employee Work Year B. after professional development.   Add the language of #3 Meeting with the Superintendent and/or SBO monthly.  Date and time to be determined.    Add the language of #4 – MOU- to create a hiring guide for all categories based on experience, similar to the custodian table, set by August 1, 2021.   The amended amendment will be reviewed with the Board president and IESP chief negotiators prior to it being posted on the district website by June 21, 2021.  Second by O’Loughlin, motion carried 5-0.

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Consider Approval of Rescinding the COVID Safety Guidelines Approved by the Board on September 21, 2020 – Trimble moved to approve Rescinding the COVID Safety Guidelines Approved by the Board on September 21, 2020.  Sornson second. After board discussion, motion carried 3-2 with Hansen and O’Loughlin voting nay.
     
  2. Consider Approval of the Construction Change Orders – Sornson moved to approve the Construction Change Orders.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  3. Consider Renewal of the Letter of Continuation of the Iowa Department of Human Services –Buchanan County Juvenile Court School Coach Contract #JUV-18-LS-1-001 Fourth Amendment for 2021-2022 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Consider Renewal of the Letter of Continuation of the Iowa Department of Human Services Buchanan County Juvenile Court School Coach Contract #JUV-18-LS-1-001 Fourth Amendment for 2021-2022.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.  Trimble would like to review in April 2022  prior to the renewal.
     
  4. Consider Approval of the Registration and Meal Rates for 2021-2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Registration and Meal Rates for 2021-2022.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  5. Consider Approval of the Bread Bid from Pan-O-Gold for 2021-2022 – Hansen moved to approve the Bread Bid from Pan-0-Gold for 2021-2022.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  6. Consider Approval of the Milk Bid from Prairie Farms for 2021-2022 – Sornson moved to approve the Milk Bid from Prairie Farms for 2021-2022.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  7. Consider Approval of the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2021-2022 –Trimble moved to approve the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2021-2022.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  8. Consider Approval of the Agreement for Food Service Operations between Kidsville and Independence Community School District for 2021-2022 – O’Loughlin moved to approve the Agreement for Food Service Operations between Kidsville and Independence Community School District for 2021-2022.   Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  9. Consider Approval of the Lease Agreement with Moser Preschool and Daycare through July 31, 2022 – Trimble moved to approve the Lease Agreement with Moser Preschool and Daycare through July 31, 2022. Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  10. Consider Approval of the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and Kidsville for 2021-2022 – Hansen moved to approve the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and Kidsville for 2021-2022.    O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  11. Consider Approval of the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and Moser Preschool and Daycare for 2021-2022 – Sornson moved to approve the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and Moser Preschool and Daycare for 2021-2022.   Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  12. Consider Approval of the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and St. John Catholic School for 2021-2022 –Trimble moved to approve the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and St John Catholic School for 2021-2022.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  13. Consider Approval of the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and Wee Care Preschool for 2021-2022 – Sornson moved to approve the Statewide 4-Year Old Voluntary Preschool Contract with Independence Community School District and Wee Care Preschool for 2021-2022.  O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  14. Consider Approval of the Joint Education Service Agreement between Hawkeye Community College and Independence Community Schools for the Summer of 2021 – Trimble moved to approve the Joint Education Service Agreement between Hawkeye Community College and Independence Community Schools for the Summer of 2021.   O’Loughlin second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  15. Consider Approval of the 2021-2022 Catastrophic Insurance Renewal –Trimble moved to approve the 2021-2022 Catastrophic Insurance Renewal.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  16. Recognition of Director O’Loughlin’s Service - Supt Reiter thanked and presented a plaque to Director O’Loughlin for his time on the board.  Thank you, Matt O’Loughlin for your service to the district.
     
  17. Discuss the Board Member Replacement Process – President Smith walked the board through the process of replacing the vacant position.  Anyone interested in filling the vacant position for 6 months should contact a current board members or Laura Morine to obtain a questionnaire to be filled out and returned by June 10th.  The board will meet on June 15th to select the replacement. This seat will then be up for re-election in the fall.

 

ADJOURNMENT – O’Loughlin moved to adjourn the regular meeting.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.   Meeting was adjourned at 7:55 pm.

 

EXEMPT SESSION

The board moved to the JSH library for negotiations strategies discussions.   Session ended at 8:40 pm and no official action was taken during the exempt session.

 

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 15:17

Board Minutes - 2021.06.15

Board Minutes - 2021.06.15

A special meeting of the Independence Community School District was called to order by Chair Eric Smith at 6:00 pm on June 15, 2021 at the Administration Building, 1207 1st St West, Independence Iowa.   Attending: Smith, Hansen, Sornson, Trimble, Supt. Reiter and Board Secretary Morine.  Guests: Brad Bleichner, Charlie McCardle, Lance Fricke and Tracy Kullmer, newspaper rep. . The pledge of allegiance was recited. 

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

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Consider Approval of the Revision of the Independence Teachers’ Association (ITA) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022.  Trimble moved to approve the Revision of the Independence Teachers’ Association (ITA) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 with a salary increase of 3.65%.  Hansen second, motion carried 4-0.
     
  2. Discussion of Persons Interested in Appointment to DD #1 Vacancy - Bleichner, McCardle and Fricke addressed as possible appointees. The board then discussed the candidates.

C. Consider Approval of Person to Fill DD #1 Vacancy- Sornson nominated Charlie McCardle.  Motion died due to the lack of a second.  Trimble moved to appoint Brad Bleichner to fill the vacancy on the Board of Directors until November 2021 election.  Hansen second, motion carried 3-1 with Sornson voting nay.  The Oath of Office was administered to Mr. Bleichner and he then joined the board at table.

ADJOURNMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting, Hansen second motion carried 5-0 and meeting was adjourned at 6:35 pm. 

EXEMPT SESSION - The board moved into an exempt session for negotiations strategy discussion.  Session ended at 7:20 pm and no official action was taken during the exempt session.

CONSTRUCTION TOUR – The board toured the East and West construction projects.  No official action was taken during the tour and the tour ended at 8:15 pm.

 

 

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

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 16:24

Board Minutes - 2021.06.21

Board Minutes - 2021.06.21

EXEMPT SESSION

At 5 pm, the board held an exempt session in the Supt. Office for negotiations strategies discussions. Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, Brad Bleichner and Superintendent Reiter. Session ended at 5: 45 pm and no official action was taken during the exempt session.

Prior to the start of the meeting, the board acknowledged and thanked our retiring teachers after listening to their retirement plans.

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 1st St West, Independence, Iowa on June 21, 2021, 2021.    Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble and Brad Bleichner.  Also attending:  Supt. Reiter, Board Secretary Morine, administrators, directors, retirees and local press. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited

 

FRIENDS OF EDUCATION

A. Retiring Teachers - the board recognized and thanked Diane Kinseth, David Lang, and Bonnie O’Brien who retired at the end of this school year and Donalyn Pogue and Dan Putz who retired last school year.  We appreciate their many years of dedication to education and enjoy your retirement!

 

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Sornson moved to approve the agenda but strike Admin/Director salaries from item P-Consider Approval of the Classified Non-Union, District Exempt Non-Union, Certified Non-Union and Administrative/Director Contracts for 2021-2022.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.

 

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

A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on May 18, 2021 and the special meeting on June 15, 2021.

B. Approval of Resignations

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

DATE

Roger Barloon

JSH High School Musical Director

05/25/2021

Sonya Elzey

JSH Capturing Kids’ Hearts Initiative Leader

06/30/2021

Kathy Hemsath

East Elem .5 hr Crossing Guard (p.m.)

05/26/2021

Brenda Hulse

JSH 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

05/26/2021

Kayla Kanellis

East/West Elem Math Interventionist

06/09/2021

Tiffany Lampe

JSH 7.0 hr Sp Ed Para

05/26/2021

Lisa Preuss

JSH .5 Student Council/Prom Advisor

05/26/2021

 

C. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

NAME

PREVIOUS ASSIGNMENT

NEW ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Andria Anderson

JSH .5 FTE Student Council/Prom Advisor

JSH 1.0 FTE Student Council/Prom Advisor

$3,402

08/23/2021

 

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

NAME

ASSIGNMENT

SALARY

DATE

Joanne Alessio

Elementary Summer School Teacher

$30.00/hr

07/19/2021

Emily Caylor

West Elem 3rd Grade Teacher

 

$41,547*

ESSER Funds

08/16/2021

Alicia Connor

Elementary Summer School Sp Ed Teacher

$30.00/hr

07/19/2021

Devan Cummings

West Elem Band Teacher

$43,577*

08/16/2021

Devan Cummings

Assistant Summer Band Director Summer 2021

$1,399

07/01/2021

Devan Cummings

Elementary Band

$2,472

08/16/2021

Devan Cummings

Assistant Band Director

$3,886

08/16/2021

Jamie Even

JH Volleyball Coach

$2,158

08/09/2021

Heather Grover

Elementary Summer School Teacher

$30.00/hr

07/19/2021

Theresa Hocken

Elementary Summer School Para

$11.35/hr

07/19/2021

Faith Janaszak

Elementary Summer School Para

$10.70/hr

07/19/2021

Sue Knott

Elementary Summer School Teacher

$30.00//hr

07/19/2021

Mary Kohlhaas

Elementary Summer School Para

$11.80/hr

07/19/2021

Haley Krogh

JH Volleyball Coach

$1,701

08/09/2021

Holly Mueller

Elementary Summer School Teacher

$30.00/hr

07/19/2021

Alisa Nelson

School Social Worker

$44,108*

08/16/2021

Maddie Timmerman

Elementary Summer School Teacher

$30.00/hr

07/19/2021

Peter Trimble

Color Guard

$2,355

07/01/2021

 

 

 

 

TLC

 

 

 

Instructional Coaches

 

 

 

Sonya Elzey

JSH .5 Grades 7-12 Special Education

$8,500

07/01/2021

 

 

 

 

Curriculum Leaders

 

 

 

Racheal Ohrt

West Elem 4th Grade

$4,500

07/01/2021

 

 

 

 

Mentor Teachers

 

 

 

Jon Carey

Mentor Teacher

$2,000

08/16/2021

Ricky Nolan

Mentor Teacher

$2,000

08/16/2021

Tracy Steger

Mentor Teacher

$2,000

08/16/2021

Jessica Willman

Mentor Teacher

$2,000

08/16/2021

*One Extended Contract Day

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director Hansen reviewed the bills. (Smith- July, Sornson-August, Trimble-September)

     2.  Budget Report

 

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

A. Comments from the Public - none

B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Trimble reported she had attended the 8th & 9th trip to Washington DC. This is not a school sponsored trip but our teacher, Amy Gustafson organizes the trip.  Trimble said we should be proud of the students as they were well behaved and had great learning opportunities.   Sornson reports she had taken the Iowa Leadership Standards training.   Supt. Reiter reported that the Kindergarten roundup numbers were looking close to previous years of about 100 students including JK students.  Principal Reidy updated that number to 112 as of last Friday.   Supt Reiter will be attending the National Federation of State High School Associations in Florida the week of June 28th.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal – Principal Howard reported there are now 41 students attending summer school

     2.  Junior-Senior High School Assistant Principal

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

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 Update – Supt. Reiter gave the last Return to Learn Plan Update.  The Covid Tracker will be taken off the website before the end of the month.  The staff are still discussing what they learned from the pandemic and what procedures will be kept.
     
  2. Review East/West Elementary Construction Project – Supt. Reiter updated the board on the East/West Construction projects.
     
  3. Consider Approval of the Amendment to the Revision of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 – Hansen moved to approve the Amendment to the Revision of the Independence Educational Support Personnel (IESP) Contract for Fiscal Year 2021-2022. Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

 

NEW BUSINESS

  1. Consider Approval of the Construction Change Orders – Bleichner moved to approve the Construction Change Orders.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  2. Consider Approval of the HSR Associates, Inc. Professional Fee Proposal for Air Quality Upgrades –Trimble moved to approve the HSR Associates, Inc. Professional Fee Proposal for Air Quality Upgrades.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  3. Consider Approval of the EMC Annual Insurance Proposal – Sornson moved to approve the EMC Annual Insurance Proposal with a premium increase $8,559 (3.45%).  Many districts are seeing a double-digit increase. Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  4. Consider Approval of the 2021 Renewal Proposal with SU Insurance Company - Hansen moved to approve the 2021-22 Renewal Proposal with SU Insurance Company for equipment breakdown insurance.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  5. Consider Approval of the Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. 2021-2022 Contracted Services Agreement - Sornson moved to approve the Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. 2021-2022 Contracted Services Agreement.  Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  6. Consider Approval of the Food Service Director Shared Services Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2021-2022
     
  7. Consider Approval of the Human Resource Director Shared Services Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2021-2022
     
  8. Consider Approval of the Buildings & Grounds Manager Shared Services Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2021-2022
     
  9. Consider Approval of the School Social Worker Shared Services Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for 2021-202
     

Bleichner moved to approve items F-I -All sharing agreements with East Buchanan for 2021-2022..  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

  1. Consider Approval of the Transportation Director Shared Services Agreement with Dunkerton Community School District for 2021-2022 - Trimble moved to approve the Transportation Director Shared Services Agreement with Dunkerton Community School District for 2021-2022.  Sornson second motion carried 5-0.
     
  2. Consider Approval of the PowerSchool Access Agreement with Grant Wood Area Education Agency for 2021-2022 - Sornson moved to approve the PowerSchool Access Agreement with Grant Wood Area Education Agency for 2021-2022.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  3. Consider Approval of the Special Education Delivery Plan - Hansen moved to approve the Special Education Delivery Plan.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  4. Consider Approval of the 2021-2022 Elementary and JSH Student Handbooks - Trimble moved to approve the 2021-2022 Elementary and JSH Student Handbooks. Hansen second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  5. Consider Approval of the 2021-2022 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook - Trimble moved to approve the 2021-2022 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.  In August the board would like to discuss the Policy 503.1 Student Conduct, the Policy 503.4 -Good Conduct Policy, and the Good Conduct Code from the Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook.
     
  6. Consider Approval of the Board Resolution to Transfer Funds of up to $10,000.00 for Protective Athletic Equipment - Trimble moved to approve the Board Resolution to Transfer Funds of up to $10,000.00 for Protective Athletic Equipment.  Hansen second.  Roll call vote:  Smith – aye, Sornson – aye, Trimble -aye, Bleichner – aye and Hansen – aye.  Motion carried 5-0.
  7. Consider Approval of the Classified Non-Union, District Exempt Non-Union, Certified Non-Union, and Administrative/Director Contracts for 2021-2022 – Bleichner moved to approve the Classified Non-Union, District Exempt Non-Union, Certified Non-Union, and Administrative/Director Contracts for 2021-2022.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.
     
  8. IASB Legislative Priorities – the board will review the IASB Legislative Priorities and the individual board members will let Board Secretary Morine know their top three priorities by July 12th.  are due to IASB

Board Secretary Morine left the meeting at 7:26 pm

  1. Closed Session - Trimble moved to enter 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. Sornson second.  Roll call vote:  Smith – aye, Sornson – aye, Trimble -aye, Bleichner – aye and Hansen – aye.  Motion carried 5-0 and the board entered into closed session at 7:30 pm.

The Board took a recess at 8:42 pm.

Superintendent Reiter left the meeting at 8:42 pm.

The Board meeting resumed at 8:48 pm.

Closed session ended at 9:30 pm and no official action was taken during the closed session.

  1. Superintendent’s Contract – Sornson moved to approve a one-year extension, a raise of $5,800 and add a market adjustment of $5,500 to the Superintendent’s contract.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Trimble moved to adjourn the meeting.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 9:33 pm.

 

 

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

 

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 16:26

Board Minutes - 2021.06.24

Board Minutes - 2021.06.24

At 6:02 pm, the board held an exempt session in the Supt. Office for negotiations strategies discussions. Board members present:  Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, Brad Bleichner and Superintendent Reiter. Session ended at 7:00 pm and no official action was taken during the exempt session.

A special meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order by Chair Eric Smith at 7:00 pm on June 24, 2021 at the Administration Building, 1207 1st St West, Independence Iowa.  Board members present: Eric Smith, Kim Hansen, Jennifer Sornson, Gina Trimble, Brad Bleichner.  Also attending: Superintendent Reiter. The pledge of allegiance was recited.

Approval of Agenda:  Hansen moved to approve the agenda.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

New Business

A. Consider Approval of the Administrative/Director Contracts for 2021-2022 – Trimble moved to approve the   Administrative/Director raises for 2021-2022.  Sornson second, motion carried 5-0.

Adjournment: Hansen moved to adjourn the meeting.  Bleichner second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting was adjourned at 7:03 pm.

 

___________________________________
Eric B. Smith, Chair

 

dawn.gibson.cm… Wed, 06/30/2021 - 16:31