The regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by President Kim Hansen at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on July 20, 2023.  Board members present: Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Eric Smith, Audrey Hill and Charlie McCardle. Also present: Superintendent Phillips, Board Secretary Morine, Press representative – John Klotzbach. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

President Hansen welcomed new Superintendent Cynthia Phillips to the district.

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

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Motion by Smith, second by Trimble to approve all the consent items.  Motion carried 5-0.

     A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on June 19, 2023.

     B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

         Second Readings:

C. Approval of Resignations

       D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

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

F. Approval of Financial Reports

         1.  Bills – Director Hill reviewed the bills – Hansen will review in August

         2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

     A. Comments from the Public - none

     B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Board members gave their monthly reports. Congratulations to Kim Hansen for being appointed to the Iowa High School Music Association Board. The first day to turn in papers to run for the School Board is August 28^th and the last day to turn them in is September 21^st.   Supt. Phillips reported the staff and community have been very welcoming and looks forward to serving the community. She has been busy meeting with staff and will be getting out into the community soon.

REPORTS

    A. Building Administrator Reports

         1.  Junior-Senior High School Principal/Assistant Principal

         2.   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

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Agreement for Sports Injury Coverage between Independence Community Schools and Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2024.  Motion by Trimble, second by Hill to approve the Agreement for Sports Injury Coverage between Independence Community Schools and Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2024. Motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the Agreement for Wellness Programming between Independence Community Schools and Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2024.  Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the Agreement for Wellness Programming between Independence Community Schools and Buchanan County Health Center through July 31, 2024. Motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. 2023-2024 Contracted Services Agreement.  Motion by Hill, second by Trimble to approve the Tri-County Child and Family Development Council, Inc. 2023-2024 Contracted Services Agreement.  Motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Yearbook Agreement with Jostens, Inc. for 2024 through 2025.  Motion by McCardle, second by Smith to approve the Yearbook Agreement with Jostens, Inc for 2024 through 2025.  Motion carried 5-0.

5. Legislative Priorities – The Board discussed the legislative priorities and selected:  Mental Health, Teacher Recruitment and Licensure, School Safety and Private School Choice.  The board also felt Local Accountability/Decision Making and Sharing/Reorganization are important.

ADJOURNMENT – McCardle moved to adjourn the meeting. Hill second.  Motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 6:47 pm.

________________________________________    ______________________________________

Kim Hansen, President                                                Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

  Regular Meeting

August 21, 2023

The regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by President Kim Hansen at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on August 21, 2023.  Board members present: Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Eric Smith, Audrey Hill and Charlie McCardle. Also present: Superintendent Phillips, Board Secretary Morine.  Admin/Directors:  JHS Principal Kleman, Asst JSH Principal Hupke, West Principal Reed, School Improvement Director Burmeister.  Press representative, John Klotzbach. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Motion by Smith, second by Hill to approve the agenda.  Motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Motion by Smith, second by McCardle to approve all the consent items with the following changes to Board Policy 604.05. The added language is italicized.  “Tuition for concurrent enrollment courses, as citied in the yearly contractual agreement between ICSD and postsecondary institutions, is paid for by the Independence Community School District.” 2. “Students will not be required to purchase textbooks for concurrent courses that are listed for Fall and Spring Semesters in the Joint Education Service Agreements between ICSD and postsecondary institutions. Hansen reviewed the bills and there were nine bills where amounts need to be corrected and each of the board members received a spreadsheet of those changes.  The amounts will be updated before checks go out.  Motion carried 5-0.

     A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on July 20, 2023.

     B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

       First Readings:

        C. Approval of Resignations

     D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

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

     F. Approval of Financial Reports

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

         2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

    A. Comments from the Public. – none

    B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Board members gave their monthly reports and welcomed back staff and students.  Supt. Phillips thanked the administration and directors for their support in welcoming back the staff.  Board retreat is set for October 19^th.   Currently there are six students, one teacher and one para for the Four Oaks program.  The district is fully staffed, other than looking for two full time substitutes. One having an emphasis on K-6 and the other with JSH emphasis.  Supt. Phillips has been in contact with Invision and will be setting up meetings for the facility planning process. She also thanked the board for their support as we kick off a new year.

REPORTS

   A. Building Administrator Reports

        1.  Junior-Senior High School

        2.  West Elementary/East Elementary/Early Childhood Center

   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

NEW BUSINESS

  A. Consider Approval of the Changes to the 2023-2024 Elementary and JSH Student Handbooks – Motion by Smith, second by Trimble to approve the Changes to the 2023-2024 Elementary and JSH Student Handbooks with following changes: 1. On page 51 for Preparticipation Information for Athletics that on the referenced web site "Activity Forms Handbooks" have the "Physical Activity Contract 2019-2020" file be removed and replaced with a form appropriate for 2023-24. 2. On Page 52 for Heat Related Decisions Regarding Practices/Events, that the URL be replaced with the URL https://www.iahsaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/HeatIndexChart.pdf  &…; Motion carried 5-0.

  B.  Consider Approval of the Changes to the 2023-2024 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook – Motion by Smith, second by Trimble to approve the Changes to the 2023-2024 Coach-Sponsor Activities Handbook with the following change:  On Page 32 for Heat Related Decisions Regarding Practices/Events, that the URL be replaced with the URL https://www.iahsaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/HeatIndexChart.pdf  &…; Motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the 2023-2024 Buchanan County Success Center Handbook – Motion by Smith, second by Trimble to approve the 2023-2024 Buchanan County Success Center Handbook. Motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Joint Education Service Agreement between Hawkeye Community – Motion by Trimble, second by Smith to table the Joint Education Service Agreement between Hawkeye Community in order to get clarification on why we are approving the agreement again, what changes were made and way, also clarify the language for summer school classes.   Motion carried 5-0.

  E.  Consider Approval of the Agreement between Independence Community School District and Atlantic Bottling Company through 08/23/2028 – Motion by Smith, second by McCardle to approve the Agreement between Independence Community School District and Atlantic Bottling Company through 08/23/2028 pending review by legal counsel and addendum the school lunch program is excluded.  Motion carried 5-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Smith moved to adjourn the meeting.  McCardle second.  Motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 7:02 pm.

________________________________________    ______________________________________

Kim Hansen, President                                                Laura J. Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

  Regular Meeting

September 21, 2023

The regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by President Kim Hansen at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on September 21, 2023.  Board members present: Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Eric Smith, Audrey Hill and Charlie McCardle. Also present: Superintendent Phillips, Board Secretary Morine.  Admin/Directors:  JHS Principal Kleman, Asst JSH Principal Hupke, West Principal Reed (joined at 6:30 pm), East Principal Reidy, School Improvement Director Burmeister, Technology Director Noyes and AD Putz.  Guests:  Mitch Barnett and Ralph Moore.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Motion by Smith, second by Hill to approve the agenda but striking the hiring of the MHI Four Oaks Special Ed Para.  Motion carried 5-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Motion by Smith, second by McCardle to approve the consent items.  Smith inquired to see if the paraprofessionals were aware of the mandatory child abuse reporting.  Supt. Phillips had spoken to the IESP representative and all are aware.  The mandatory reporting is required for all licensed coaches. Motion carried 5-0.

       A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on August 21, 2023.

       B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

First Readings:

         C. Approval of Resignations

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

E. Approval of Financial Reports

     1.  Bills – Director McCardle reviewed the bills – Hill will review in October

              2.  Budget Report

 ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS -

        A. Comments from the Public – none.

        B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Board members gave their monthly feedback.  Trimble stated a plea to get more members for the Athletic Boosters as membership is low.  The Athletic Boosters is also requesting volunteers and the format for volunteerism has been reformatted so that there are opportunities for everyone.  Hansen reminded board members of the upcoming School Board Convention, Nov 16-17^th and hope board members can attend.  Supt. Phillips reminded the board members of the October 19^th Board Retreat.  She also handed out preliminary information regarding her Supt. Evaluation.  She will also be sharing her superintendent leadership goals with the board and public.

        C. Presentations

             1.  Professional Learning Plan – Erin Burmeister

REPORTS

        A. Building Administrator Reports

             1.  Junior-Senior High School

             2.  West Elementary

             3.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center

        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

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – October 2023 for Laura Morine, Director of Finance/Board Secretary to Attend ASBO International Conference in National Harbor, MD – Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the Travel Request Form. International Conference in National Harbor, MD. – October 2023 for Laura Morine, Director of Finance/Board Secretary to Attend ASBO. Expenses for this trip are covered by the Iowa School Business Officials organization as Morine is a state board member Motion carried 5-0. 

2. Consider Approve of the Travel Request Form – November 2023 for Megan Bancroft, East Elementary Music Teacher to Attend the American Orff Schulwerk Association Conference in Albuquerque, NM. – Motion by McCardle, second by Smith to approve the Travel Request Form – November 2023 for Megan Bancroft, East Elementary Music Teacher to Attend the American Orff Schulwerk Association Conference in Albuquerque, NM.  Expenses for this trip will be paid by the ICSD.  Motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Facility Use Agreement with The American Red Cross – Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Facility Use Agreement with The American Red Cross. Motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Joint Education Service Agreement between Hawkeye Community College and the Independence Community School District for the 2023-2024 Academic Year – Motion by Smith, second by Hill to void the June contract and approve this new Joint Education Service Agreement between Hawkeye Community College and the Independence Community School District for the 2023-2024 Academic Year.  Motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, and Boys Bowling for 2023-2024 – Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with East Buchanan Community School District for Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, and Boys Bowling for 2023-2024.  Motion carried 5-0.  Question was raised why Girls Bowling was not included.

6. Consider Approval of the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with Jesup Community School District for Girls Bowling, Girls Wrestling, Boys Soccer, and Girls Soccer for 2023-2024 – Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with Jesup Community School District for Girls Bowling, Girls Wrestling, Boys Soccer, and Girls Soccer for 2023-2024.  Motion carried 5-0. Question was raised why Boys Bowling was not included.

7. Consider Approval of the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) Membership for 2023-2024 – Motion by Smith, second by McCardle to approve the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) Membership for 2023-2024. Motion carried 5-0.

8. Consider Approval of the Allowable Growth for Negative Special Education Balance – Motion by Smith, second by Trimble to approve the Allowable Growth for Negative Special Education Balance in the amount of $231,134.39.  Motion carried 5-0.

President Hansen thanked all the board members for their time and efforts prior to the meeting as they were prepared for the meeting.

ADJOURNMENT – Hill moved to adjourn the meeting.  McCardle second.  Motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 6:50 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

______________________________________      _____________________________________

Kim Hansen, Board President                                  Laura Morine, Board Secretary

A special meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 12:19 p.m. by President Kim Hansen at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on September 21, 2023.  Board members present: Kim Hansen. Board members joining virtually:  Gina Trimble and Eric Smith. Also present in person: Superintendent Phillips and Acting Secretary Lori Schaul.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Motion by Trimble, second by Smith to approve the agenda.  Motion carried 3-0.

NEW BUSINESS

       Consider Approval of the Joint Sharing Agreement with Oelwein Community School District for High School Dance Team for 2023-2024 – Motion by Trimble, second by Smith to approve the Joint Sharing Agreement with Oelwein Community School District for High School Dance Team for 2023-24.  Motion carried 3-0.

ADJOURNMENT – Motion by Trimble, second by Smith to adjourn the meeting.  Motion carried 3-0 and the meeting adjourned at 12:21 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

______________________________________      _____________________________________

Kim Hansen, Board President                                  Lori Schaul, Acting Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

  Regular Meeting

October 16, 2023

The regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:00 p.m. by President Kim Hansen at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on October 16, 2023.  Board members present: Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Audrey Hill and Charlie McCardle. Eric Smith was absent.  Also present: Superintendent Phillips, Board Secretary Morine.  Admin/Directors:  JHS Principal Kleman, Asst JSH Principal Hupke, West Principal Reed, East Principal Reidy, School Improvement Director Burmeister, Technology Director Noyes and Food Director Wendel.  Guests:  Amanda Fisher and John Bagge.  Mitch Barnett joined at 6:10 pm. Unfortunately the district’s Facebook page is down but the recordings are on the district website.  The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.   Treats were provided to celebrate Principal Appreciation Month.

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

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS – Motion by Hill, second by Trimble to approve the consent items.  Supt. Phillips stated the shalls will not be changed to wills in upcoming board policies so that the policies align with the Iowa School Board Association Primer.  Motion carried 4-0.

     A. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on September 21, 2023 and the special meeting on September 29, 2023.

     B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

     Second Readings:

     First Readings:

     C. Approval of Resignations

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

     E. Approval of Financial Reports

         1.  Bills – Director Hill reviewed the bills – McCardle will review in November

         2.  Budget Report

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public – none

2. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Board members gave their reports.  It is important that residents of the district get out to vote for the school board election on November 7^th.  Early voting at the Auditors office starts October 18^th.  Thanks to the Independence Teachers Association for hosting the Board Candidate Forum.  Board members also thanked the Principals for what they do in the district.  Supt. Phillips agreed with the board in thanking our Principals.  Parent Teachers Conferences are this week.  Supt. Phillips had a shout out and thanks to Supt. Justin Stockdale from Dike-New Hartford as he is mentoring Supt Phillips in her first year of superintendency. Certified Enrollment numbers are slightly up. The open enrollment numbers are higher than our open enrollment out.  The board retreat will be held October 19^th in the board room.

3. Presentations

1. Student Learning Goals for 2023-2024 were presented by Erin Burmeister. These goals were reviewed and recommended by the SIAC committee.

REPORTS

A. Building Administrator Reports

     1.  Junior-Senior High School

     2.  West Elementary

     3.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center

Principals were excused after their reports.

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 – Director Wendel reported that last year’s free and reduced status has expired today and there are 84 families that have not reapplied for the Free and Reduced status. These applications are required every year.  Director Wendel also indicated that all students can receive a reimbursable meal, no matter their balance.  Purchases from ALA Carte are not available if there are not funds in the student’s account. Parents can log into MySchoolBucks.com to view their student’s purchases.                                                                                                                                    

     5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

     6.  Director of Transportation Report

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of Contract with Music Theatre International (MTI) for the Spring 2024 Musical – Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the Contract with Music Theatre International (MTI) for the Spring 2024 Musical: Little Women. Motion carried 4-0.

2. Consider Approval of the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with Dunkerton Community School District for Mock Trial for 2023-2024 – Motion by McCardle, second by Hill to approve the Cooperative Sharing Agreement with Dunkerton Community School District for Mock Trial for 2023-2024. Motion carried 4-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Supplemental Agreement for the Fixed Asset Inventory Module with Software Unlimited, Inc. (SUI) – Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the Supplemental Agreement for the Fixed Asset Inventory Module with Software Unlimited, Inc. (SUI).  Motion carried 4-0.

4. Consider Approval of Student Learning Goals 2023-2024 – Motion by Hill, second by McCardle to approve the Student Learning Goals 2023-2024. Motion carried 4-0.

5. Closed Session – Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to go into closed session as provided in Section 21.5(1)(i) of the Iowa Code; To evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session.  Roll call vote:  Trimble – ‘aye’, Hill – ‘aye’, Hansen – ‘aye’, McCardle – ‘aye’.  Motion carried 4-0.

At 7:00 pm, the board took a recess to clear the room for the closed session.  The board entered into closed session at 7:12 pm.  The board exited the closed session at 7:55 pm.  No official transaction took place during the closed session.

ADJOURNMENT – McCardle moved to adjourn the meeting.  Trimble second. Motion carried 4-0. Meeting adjourned at 7:57 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

______________________________________      _____________________________________

Kim Hansen, Board President                                  Laura Morine, Board Secretary

APPROVAL OF AGENDA - Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the agenda.   Motion carried 4-0.

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS - Motion by Hill, second by McCardle to approve the consent items.   Motion carried 4-0.

1. Approval of the minutes of the regular meeting on October 16, 2023, the board retreat on October 19, 2023, the special meeting on November 7, 2023, and the special meeting on November 20, 2023. 

B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

Second Readings:

     C. Approval of Resignations

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

         E. Approval of Financial Reports

          1.  Budget Report

          2.  Financial Settlement Statement as of June 30, 2023

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

1. Comments from the Public – none

     B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Highlights of board member comments. Hill congratulated the administration and teachers on the Performance Profile Rating. Hill and McCardle thanked outgoing board member Smith for his service, dedication and leaving a legacy.  Trimble was proud to report that each board member had received the Individual Professional Development Award at the IASB Convention and the whole board was then recognized for the Team Achievement Award including Supt. Phillips. Hansen also commended the board for their professional development achievement and provided information for upcoming professional development opportunities. Supt Phillips also congratulated the entire board for their individual awards and team award. The facility planning assessment should be available the week of December 11^th.  Supt Phillips hopes that work will continue on redesigning the district website with Fusion Forward.  A tentative date of April 26^th has been set for the baseball turf project to be completed.  The City of Independence is working on a House in Needs survey and that has been sent to all staff members to complete since they work in Independence.

REPORTS

     A. Building Administrator Reports

          1.  Junior-Senior High School

          2.  West Elementary

          3.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center

     B. District Director Reports

          1.  Activities Director Report

          2.  Director of School Improvement Report

          3.  Director of Technology Report* - Noyes gave a technology presentation.

          4.  Director of Food Service Report

          5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

          6.  Director of Transportation Report* - Chesmore wasn’t able to make the meeting but Supt. Phillips reported the highlights that the district has 10 routes, we are currently fully staffed and we transport approximately 50% of the students.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Canvass of Board Election from November 7, 2023 – Receive and File - Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to accept the Canvass of Votes from the November 7, 2023 Election.  Elected board members are: Kim Hansen, Audrey Hill and Mitch Barnett.  Motion carried 4-0.

B. Comments from Outgoing Board Member(s) and Recognition for their Service – Comments in person by: Tracy Steger, President of the ITA, Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble and Supt Phillips all thanked Smith for his service, time commitment, dedication and passion for the school district, staff and students. Eric Smith played an important role in getting the JSH built, Baseball/Softball complex and the remodel of East and West Elementary buildings.  Accolades from former board members Brian Eddy and John Christensen were also read.  Thank you, Eric Smith for your 12 years of excellent service!

C. Adjournment of Retiring Board - Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to adjourn the meeting, Motion carried 5-0.  Meeting adjourned at 6:48 pm and a short recess was taken.

Independence Community School Board Meeting

Organizational Meeting

November 27, 2023

An organizational meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order at 6:55 pm by Board Secretary Laura Morine at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on November 27, 2023.    Board members present:   Kim Hansen, Mitch Barnett, Audrey Hill, Charlie McCardle, and Gina Trimble.  Also attending: Supt. Phillips, administrators, directors, and guests.

1. Administration of Oath to Elected Members - Board Secretary administered the oath of office to newly elected board members:  Mitch Barnett, Kim Hansen and Audrey Hill.

2. Election of a President of the Board - Trimble nominated Hansen, McCardle second.  There were no other nominations and board consensus, Hansen will be the Board President.

3. Election of a Vice President of the Board - McCardle nominated Trimble, Hanse second.  There were no other nominations and board consensus, Trimble will be the Board Vice President.

President Hansen took over the meeting and excused the administrators and directors to leave the meeting since they had put in a long day.  

     D. Set Regular Board Meeting Dates, Time and Location for 2023-2024

      Presently, the Board meets on the third Monday of the month at 6:00 p.m. in the Central Administration Office Boardroom for regular meetings.  Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Board Meeting Dates, Times and Locations. Motion carried 5-0.

2023-2024 Proposed School Board Meetings: 

December 18, 2023

January 16, 2024 (Tuesday) - No school on Monday

February 20, 2024 (Tuesday) - No school on Monday

March 18, 2024

April 8, 2024 (Second Monday) - to meet budget filing deadline

May 20, 2024

June 17, 2024

July 15, 2024

August 19, 2024

September 16, 2024

October 21, 2024

November 18, 2024

E. Roll Call Vote Order for 2023-2024 - Motion by Trimble, second by Hill to approve the Roll     Call Vote order.   Motion carried 5-0.

F. Review of Board Meeting Bills Schedule for 2023-2024 - Motion by McCardle, second by Barnett to approve the Board Meeting Bills Schedule.   Motion carried 5-0.

Mar/May - Barnett

Jan/Jun - Trimble

Apr/Jul/Oct - Hill

Dec/Aug - Hansen

Feb/Sept/Nov - McCardle

G. Discussion of Committee Assignments for 2023-2024 - The board discussed as they decided on committee assignments. Some of the committees were removed as the members were designated in board policy.

H. Consider Approval of Committee Assignments for 2023-2024 - Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Committee Assignments.  Motion carried 5-0.

Board members will give committee updates during the Comments from the Board section at the board meeting following the committee meeting they attended.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. as Legal Counsels for the District and Board of Directors - Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. as Legal Counsels for the District and Board of Directors. Motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the Official Newspaper of Publication for the District and Board of Directors - Motion by Hill, second by Trimble to approve the Bulletin Journal as the Official Newspaper of publication for the District and Board of Directors. Motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of Resolution Naming Depositories - Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Resolution Naming Depositories.  Motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of Resolution to Pay Bills when the Board is Not in Session - Motion by Trimble, second by Barnett to approve the Resolution to Pay Bills when the Board is Not in Session.  Motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of Resolution to Authorize the Use of a Check Protector and Signer and the Proper Control of the Signer - Motion by McCardle, second by Hill to approve the Resolution to Authorize the Use of a Check Protector and Signer and the Proper Control of the Signer.  Motion carried 5-0.

6. Consider Approval of Resolution to Issue Payroll - Motion by Hill, second by Trimble to approve the Resolution to Issue Payroll.  Motion carried 5-0.

7. Consider Approval of the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2024 - Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the Independence Community School District Early Graduation Applicants for January 2024.  Motion carried 5-0.

8. Consider Approval of the Affirmative Action Plan 2023-2024 - Motion by McCardle, second by Hill to approve of the Affirmative Action Plan 2023-2024.  Motion carried 5-0.

1. Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – December 2023: Paul Upmeyer to Chicago, IL - Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Travel Request Form – December 2023: Paul Upmeyer to Chicago, IL.  Motion carried 5-0.

10. Consider Approval of the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with Lied Center Consortium Program for the 2024-2025 School Year - Motion by Trimble, second by Hill to approve the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with Lied Center Consortium Program for the 2024-2025 School Year for $5,929.83.  Motion carried 5-0.

11. Consider Approval of the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with River Hills Consortium Program for the 2024-2025 School Year - Motion by McCardle, second by Trimble to approve the Application to the School Budget Review Committee for Special Education Administrative Costs Associated with River Hills Consortium Program for the 2024-2025 School Year for $9,611.07.  Motion carried 5-0.

        B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

             Second Readings:

     First Readings:

       C. Approval of Resignations

       D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

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

      F. Approval of Financial Reports

          1.  Bills – Director Hill reviewed the bills – Barnett will review in March

          2.  Budget Report

     G. Agreement for Teacher Education Clinical Experience Placements with Morningside University

     H. Donation(s)

          1. Food Service Donation from the Sam Farrell Annual Pool Tournament

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

    A. Comments from the Public - none

    B. Presentations

         1. AEA Advocacy – Joe Kremer, Central Rivers AEA presented on the services the AEA provides our district and the cuts that could possibly happened with legislation this year. The Board encourages the community to advocate for our AEA’s as they provide services to all students.

    C. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – Board members have been busy attending meetings and events in and for the district.  Hansen, Barnett and Supt. Phillips attended the IASB Day on the Hill in Des Moines to connect with our Legislators to discuss concerns with pending legislation.  The pending AEA bill will cut services the AEA provides our district for all students.  It will be very difficult for our district to replace these services in a timely manner and at what costs?  Congratulations to our students who qualified for post season and state events.

Supt. Phillips thanked Joe Kremer for his presentation as our district depends heavily on our AEA. Our message to our legislators is to slow down the AEA bill.  Teacher pay is also tied with the AEA bill and that needs to be a separate bill.  SSA has not yet been set and if it is not set before the district budget has to be posted, the tax payers will see an increase in taxes.  The district has the ability to only reduce the tax rate after publication but not increase the tax rate. If the SSA is not set by publication time, the budget will be at 0% SSA with a budget guarantee that creates a higher tax rate.   Supt. Phillips indicated the district is vetting different school safety applications in case of a crisis. The DEI committee has had meetings and the district is looking at hiring a consulting firm. 

REPORTS

     A. Building Administrator Reports

          1. Junior-Senior High School

          2. West Elementary

          3. East Elementary/Early Childhood Center

     B. District Director Reports

         1. Activities Director Report

         2. Director of School Improvement Report

         3. Director of Technology Report* - Director Noyes gave the board a quick preview of the new website and received feedback.

         4. Director of Food Service Report

         5. Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

         6. Director of Transportation Report

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval to Adopt Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract, and Estimated Cost for the Independence CSD 2024 Baseball Field Improvements – Trimble moved to approve to Adopt Plans, Specifications, Form of Contract, and Estimated Cost for the Independence CSD 2024 Baseball Field Improvements.  McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

2. Consider Approval of the Bids for the Baseball Field Improvements – McCardle moved to approve the following bids for the Baseball Field Improvements.  Top Grade Excavating for the site development contract in the amount of $377,661.00. Sprinturf for the synthetic turf system contract in the amount of $354,575.00.  Hill second, motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – October 2024: Michael Haden and FFA Members to Indianapolis, IN for National FFA Convention – Trimble moved to approve the Travel Request Form – October 2024: Michael Haden and FFA Members to Indianapolis, IN for National FFA Convention.  Barnett second, motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the Travel Request Form – December 2024: Michael Haden to San Antonio, TX for the National Association of Agricultural Educators Conference – Trimble moved to approve the Travel Request Form – December 2024: Michael Haden to San Antonio, TX for the National Association of Agricultural Educators Conference.  Barnett second, motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of the Farm Leases (North Parcel and South Parcel) for 2024-2025 – McCardle moved to approve the Farm Leases (North Parcel and South Parcel) for 2024-2025.  Hill second, motion carried 5-0.

6. Consider Approval of the Independence Board Resolution for Budget Guarantee that the Board of Directors of the Independence Community School District will levy property tax for fiscal year 2024-2025 for the regular program budget adjustment as allowed under section 257.14, Code of Iowa – Trimble moved to approve the Independence Board Resolution for Budget Guarantee that the Board of Directors of the Independence Community School District will levy property tax for fiscal year 2024-2025 for the regular program budget adjustment as allowed under section 257.14, Code of Iowa.  McCardle second.  Roll call vote:  Barnett – aye, Hansen – aye, Hill – aye, McCardle – aye, Trimble – aye.  Motion carried 5-0.

7. Discussion of School Resource Officer – Superintendent Phillips updated the board regarding conversation with the City of Independence regarding the possibility of sharing a School Resource Officer (SRO). The four main areas that the SRO would work on are:  law enforcement, age appropriate education, building relationships and mentoring as well as aid in emergency management. The city is ready to move forward but there are many legislative uncertainties, such as SSA rate, AEA bill and if there would be funding for the SRO program for the board to commit at this time.

8. Discussion of Requests for Proposals (RFP) for School Picture Companies – As the district looks at school safety applications, it is important that we have pictures of all students and staff, ability to uploaded them into our SIS (Student Information System) in a timely manner as well as the ability to create id cards. The board was supportive in putting an RFP out for school pictures this spring for fall 2024 pictures.

ADJOURNMENT - McCardle moved to adjourn the regular meeting. Barnett second, motion carried 5-0.  Meeting adjourned at 8:21 pm.

A recess was taken before the exempt session started at 8:50 pm

EXEMPT SESSION

Negotiations Strategy Session - The board discussed negotiation strategies. The exempt session ended at 9:40 pm.

Respectfully Submitted:

__________________________________         _________________________________

Kim Hansen, Board President                              Laura Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

  Publice Hearing & Regular Meeting

  March 18, 2024           

PUBLIC HEARING

A public hearing for the Proposed 2024-2025 School Calendar started at 5:50 pm at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on March 18, 2024. Board members present: Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Charlie McCardle, Audrey Hill and Mitch Barnett.  Also attending: Supt. Phillips, Board Secretary Morine, Principals: Kleman, Hupke, Reed, and Reidy, Directors: Burmeister, Putz and Chesmore, along with some guests.  

No public comments were received.  The public hearing ended at 5:56 pm.

REGULAR MEETING

A regular meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order by President Kim Hansen at 6:00 pm at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on March 18, 2024. Board members present:  Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Charlie McCardle, Audrey Hill and Mitch Barnett.  Also attending: Supt. Phillips, Board Secretary Morine, Principals: Kleman, Hupke, Reed, and Reidy, Directors: Burmeister, Putz and Chesmore, along with some guests.  

President Hansen requested an amendment to the agenda to include changes to two policies and wave the second reading due to a compliance deadline.  McCardle moved to amend the agenda to add these policy changes:

    505.09 Parent and Family Engagement – change for the committee to review annually.

    501.03 Compulsory Attendance – changed school days to hours.

Trimble second, amendment passed 5-0.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA – Hill moved to approve the amended agenda. Barnett second, motion carried 5-0.

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

     A. Approval of the minutes of the public hearing and regular meeting on February 20, 2024, the work session on February 26, 2024, the work session on March 8, 2024, and the special meeting on March 12, 2024.

    B. Approval of Board Policies (*changes noted)

       Second Readings:

First Readings:

                   C. Approval of Resignations

                  D. Approval of Transfers/Reassignments

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

*Pending 2024-2025 Negotiations

     F. Approval of Financial Reports

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

         2.  Budget Report

    G. Cooperative Agreement by and between University of Northern Iowa and Cooperating    Educational Agencies for the 2024-2025 Academic Year

     H. Donations

         1. Ace Hardware - Miscellaneous Items Due to the Transition from Hardware Hank – Thank you Ace Hardware for your donation to the Industrial Tech department as the students will use the donated items.  

ANNOUNCEMENTS, COMMUNICATIONS and PRESENTATIONS

    A. Comments from the Public - None

    B. Comments from the Board/Superintendent – All the board members have been busy attending meetings and activities. Compliments to the students and all involved in the spring musical, Little Women as it was a great production. Congratulations to the students participating in speech contests and to the students that made it to All State Speech. Supt. Phillips highlighted she is still advocating with our legislators to set SSA, increase and fund teacher pay, and the value of our AEAs. The new Facebook page is up and running promoting our district’s happenings and upcoming events. Next month, the new district website should be launched. On Friday, March 22 at 3:00 pm there will be the ribbon cutting for the FFA Chicken Coop. The baseball field project is progressing nicely and currently ahead of schedule. Supt. Phillips is waiting until the upcoming weather passes to announce the adjustments to the year end calendar. Five firms have been invited to review our facilities as the district continues to work on the Facility Master Plan.

REPORTS

    A. Building Administrator Reports

         1.  Junior-Senior High School

         2.  West Elementary

         3.  East Elementary/Early Childhood Center

   B. District Director Reports

        1.  Activities Director Report

        2.  Director of School Improvement Report – Director Burmeister shared that since the first of the year, there have been a number of requests from schools, networks and companies to share our positive experiences, learning and knowledge regarding standards-based grading, math interventions, social emotional learning and the district’s growth with Conditions for Learning Data at West.  Kudos to our hard-working staff.

        3.  Director of Technology Report

        4.  Director of Food Service Report

        5.  Director of Buildings & Grounds Report

        6.  Director of Transportation Report* – Director Chesmore reports on our fleet of vehicles.  One of our buses didn’t pass inspections so it will need to be replaced.  Having another 12-passenger van would help to cover our out of district activities. Director Chesmore is also looking at new software to enhance transporting our students.

NEW BUSINESS

1. Consider Approval of the Proposed 2024-2025 School Calendar – Hill moved to approve the Proposed 2024-2025 School Calendar.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.  The new calendar increases the student day by 10 minutes and adds additional full day professional development days to accommodate training with the AEA.

2. Consider Approval of the Agreement of Service with Timberline Billing Service LLC Effective July 1, 2024 Through June 30, 2027 – McCardle moved to approve the Agreement of Service with Timberline Billing Service LLC Effective July 1, 2024 Through June 30, 2027 for Medicaid billing.  Trimble second, motion carried 5-0.

3. Consider Approval of the Frontline Education Renewal Notice Effective July 1, 2024 – Hill moved to approve the Frontline Education Renewal Effective July 1, 2024.  Barnett second, motion carried 5-0.

4. Consider Approval of the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2024-2025 – Trimble moved to approve the AEA Purchasing Agreement for 2024-2025.  McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.

5. Consider Approval of the Employee Benefit Systems Third Party Administration Service Agreement with TRIG, INC. d/b/a Employee Benefit Systems – McCardle moved to approve the Employee Benefit Systems Third Party Administration Service Agreement with TRIG, INC. d/b/a Employee Benefit Systems for COBRA administration. Barnett second, motion carried 5-0.

6. Consider Approval of the Iowa Local Government Risk Pool Commission Natural Gas Program Participation Agreement for July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 – Trimble moved to approve the Iowa Local Government Risk Pool Commission Natural Gas Program Participation Agreement for July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025.  McCardle second, motion carried 5-0.  The contract amount is $36,905.98 less than last year.

7. Consider Approval of the Commercial Lease Agreement by and between R & E Real Estate, LLC and Independence Community School District Effective July 1, 2024 Through June 30, 2025 – McCardle moved to approve the Commercial Lease Agreement by and between R & E Real Estate, LLC and Independence Community School District Effective July 1, 2024 Through June 30, 2025.  Barnett second, motion carried 5-0

ADJOURNMENT – McCardle moved to adjourn the meeting, Hill second.  Motion carried 5-0 and the meeting adjourned at 7:00 pm.

A break was taken to clear the board room for an exempt session.

EXEMPT SESSION

Negotiations Strategy Session

The board discussed negotiation strategies and no official action was taken during the session.  The exempt session ended at 8:45 pm.

___________________________________              ___________________________________

Kim Hansen, President                                               Laura Morine, Board Secretary

Independence Community School Board Meeting

Public Hearing and Special Meeting

March 25, 2024           

PUBLIC HEARING

A public hearing for the Proposed Independence Community School District Property Tax Levy Fiscal Year July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025, at 6:00 pm at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on March 25, 2024. Board members present: Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Charlie McCardle, Audrey Hill and Mitch Barnett.  Also attending: Supt. Phillips and Board Secretary Morine. Guest: Keith Donnelly. The board reviewed the tax statement sent out by the county auditor and the district’s proposed tax rate for July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025, is $13.32796, down slightly from $13.34165. The public hearing ended at 6:09 pm and there was no public comment.   

SPECIAL MEETING

A special meeting of the Independence Community School Board was called to order by President Kim Hansen at 6:09 pm at the Administration Office, 1207 1^st St West, Independence, Iowa on March 25, 2024. Board members present:  Kim Hansen, Gina Trimble, Charlie McCardle, Audrey Hill and Mitch Barnett.  Also attending: Supt. Phillips, and Board Secretary Morine.

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

CONSIDERATION OF ACTION ON CONSENT ITEMS - Motion by Trimble, second by McCardle to approve the consent items.  Motion carried 5-0.  Thank you and best wishes to the three retirees and those moving on.  We appreciate your dedicated service to our students and the district.   

      A. Approval of Resignations