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The Stanton Community School District is the heartbeat of our community. It provides a healthy focus and is one of the most important assets we have. The privilege of providing an education for our young people is one we must never take for granted.
Educational institutions are set up to facilitate the learning processes of individual students. The school curriculum must be committed to providing learning experiences conducive to achieving success in a highly technological work place, mastering basic skills, applying what is learned and challenging each student to perform at his/her highest level of potential while becoming life long learners.
The most important product we have in this country is our children. We must facilitate their educational development and growth in every way we can. Leadership, commitment and appropriate expectations are what make school districts successful.
Every student, regardless of whether he/she chooses a vocation or further formal education, must be provided the learning experiences necessary to succeed in the world in which they will work and live after high school.
2009-2010 Board Committees:
Negotiations: Paul Vanderholm, Jeff
Magneson
Budget Management: Jeff Magneson, Mark Lindgren
Buildings and Grounds: Paul Vanderholm, Brian Bates
Transportation: Mark Lindgren, Brian Bates
District and School Board related links
| NOTICES TO THE PUBLIC | |||
| Student Achievement | District Financial Information | Board of Education | Curriculum |
| Student Achievement data 2005-2009 | |||
| Student Achievement data 2003-2008 | FY 2007 Financial Report | School Board Meeting News | Core Curriculum, etc. |
| Student Achievement data 2002-2006 | FY 2007 Outstanding Tax Levies | School Philosophy | Student Learning Goals |
| Student Achievement data 1999-2003 | Technology Goals and Results | ||
School Board Meeting
News Release
(Legal Minutes)--February 10, 2010
FEBRUARY 10, 2010 REGULAR MEETING
On Wednesday February 10, 2010, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session. President Magneson called the meeting to order with Directors Lindgren, Bates, Vanderholm and Sorensen present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal Dennis McClain, Business Manager Shirley Maxwell, Board Secretary Vicky King, Carla Erickson, Becky Poen, Rick Boyer, Steve Johnson and Amber Volquartsen. The agenda was amended adding to new business items J & K. The agenda was approved 5-0 on a motion by Lindgren, second by Sorensen. Minutes were approved as printed and bills were presented, reviewed and approved 5-0 for payment on a motion from Lindgren, second by Vanderholm.
Principal Dennis McClain reported: Teachers in service; selected teachers attended restraint training and have participated in Google Apps. Upcoming SEEDS day will be March 10, 2010 and will be day #4 and will end Stanton Schools SEEDS participation. We will focus on future teacher in service days to include Iowa Core Curriculum and elementary math. We have our Iowa Core Curriculum plan in rough draft. We will analyze our needs for technology and have a future recommendation. Stanton will also be looking at our electronic device policy with a possible revision in the future. Regional basketball tournament will be starting this week with the girls on 02/11/2010. Boys tournament will start on 02/15/10. Other future dates to remember are 02/20/10 All State Large Group Speech, 02/27/10 District Individual Speech Contest, State Individual Speech Contest will be held on 03/05/10. March 10, 2010 will be no school for teacher in-service.
INTEGRATION OF SIXTH GRADE INTO JUNIOR HIGH FOR 2010-2011 school year has been discussed for several months. Superintendent Ashley recommended that the sixth grade be integrated into the Junior High School for 2010-2011. He felt that academic student needs will definitely be met as well as a cost savings to the district. Sorensen made a motion to approve the integration of sixth grade into junior high. Vanderholm, second. Motion carried 5-0.
REVIEW/APPROVE #700 SERIES BOARD POLICIES – EDUCATION PROGRAM: Board Policies #700 (Non-instructional and Business Services) through #711.9 were reviewed and approved 5-0 on a motion by Lindgren and second by Bates.
BUDGET GUARANTEE RESOLUTION was approved to gain the district spending authority and will be funded with property tax. This will allow the school to levy $35,724 to help make up for declining enrollment. A motion was made by Lindgren, second by Vanderholm. Motion carried 5-0.
Due to the recent across the board budget cut of $96,000 and declining enrollment, the Superintendent recommended a wage freeze for the following positions:
SUPERINTENDENT CONTRACT for 2010-2011-Motion was made by Bates and second by Sorensen to freeze the superintendent’s wages for 2010-2011. Motion carried 5-0.
K-12 PRINCIPAL CONTRACT for 2010-2011-a motion was made by Vanderholm, and second by Lindgren to freeze the principal’s wages for 2010-2011. Motion carried 5-0.
ATHLETIC DIRECTOR CONTRACT FOR 2010-2011-a motion was made by Lindgren to freeze wages for the Athletic Director contract for the 2010-2011 school year. Second by Bates. Motion carried 5-0.
SEA Teacher Union’s Proposal. Carla Erickson and Becky Poen presented the Stanton Education Association master contract proposal for 2010-2011. They requested some language changes and a total package increase of $30,466 or a 2.67% for 2010-2011.
Master Contract Consideration/Ratification was tabled until a later date.
DISTRICT SHARING-conversations between districts continue as to possible sharing of programs and/or staff. Superintendent Ashley continues to meet with Superintendents from Griswold, Villisca, Red Oak as well as Corner Conference Schools. Any final decisions will be subject to Board approval.
REDUCTION OF STAFF-will be considered as needed to balance the budget and be fiscally responsible to the taxpayers of the district.
OPEN ENROLLMENT in, a motion was made by Lindgren, second by Vanderholm for Trinity Johnson to attend Stanton School from Red Oak for the remainder of 2009-2010. Motion carried 5-0. Vanderholm made a motion to approve Caleb Johnson to open enroll into Stanton School for the remainder of 2009-10. Both were approved via the Good Clause law. Second by Bates. Motion carried 5-0.
FIRE ALARM SYSTEM-a motion was made by Bates and second by Sorensen to approve the proposal of $5458 from Electronic Contracting Company to provide and install a new XLS Fire Alarm Panel. This same company installed the original system. Motion carried 5-0.
OPEN ENROLLMENT-Lindgren made a motion to approve the open enrollment in of Hunter Reese for 2010-2011. Second by Vanderholm. Motion carried 5-0.
Vanderholm made a motion to approve the open enrollment in of Ashley Reese for 2010-2011. Second by Bates. Motion carried 5-0.
Sorensen made a motion to approve the open enrollment in of Jennifer Mears for 2010-2011. Second by Vanderholm. Motion carried 5-0.
Bates made a motion to approve the open enrollment in of Vivian Baucom for 2010-2011. Second by Sorensen. Motion carried 5-0.
Vanderholm made a motion to approve the open enrollment in of Bailey McKee for the 2010-2011 school year. Second by Bates. Motion carried 5-0.
Lindgren made a motion to approve the open enrollment in of Riley McKee for the 2010-2011 school year. Second by Sorensen. Motion carried 5-0.
Superintendent Ashley reported: We have expended 53.46% of the Operating Fund, last year was 52.42% at this time. February 15 and March 19 will be snow makeup days. May 28, June 1, 2, 3 will now be instructional days with June 3 being the last day for students and June 4 will be used as a teacher in-service day. This is how it stands now, if we do not have any more snow days. H1N1 flu clinic will be held at school on February 12, 2010 for students and staff. This was coordinated by school nurse Pam Estes and the Montgomery County Public Health. A teacher for Driver’s Ed and Softball coach for the Spring of 2010 is proving difficult to find. We do have a couple of applicants to interview on February 16. Field maintenance for the Baseball and Softball fields is being discussed. Fire Marshal requirements are now about 95% completed. The school will purchase new Smart Boards and computers with patron gifts and federal dollars. Overall, the 2009-2010 school year has had its challenges in many different ways including the weather, however, staff, students, administration and bus drivers have stepped up to make it a successful year so far. Thank you everyone for your hard work and strong parent support.
A motion by Lindgren for adjournment received a second by Vanderholm and carried 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 10:08 p.m.
(Vicki King, Board Secretary)
January 13, 2010 ---(Legal Minutes)
JANUARY 13, 2010 REGULAR MEETING
On Wednesday January 13, 2010, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session. President Magneson called the meeting to order with Directors Lindgren, Bates, Vanderholm and Sorensen present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Business Manager Shirley Maxwell, Board Secretary Vicky King, Carla Rydberg, Jason Lura, Carla Erickson, Vicki Engstrand, Jake Nimrod, Sherry Vogel, Lee Haidsiak, Jane Hansen, Steve Johnson, Amber and Joey Volquartsen. The agenda was approved 5-0 on a motion by Vanderholm, second by Bates. Minutes were approved as printed and bills were presented, reviewed and approved 5-0 for payment on a motion from Bates, second by Sorensen.
Principal Dennis McClain reported: Stanton Friends have met and are continuing with plans for a new wellness center; Teachers in-service was held January 4, 2010 with high school teachers working on SEEDS and elementary teachers worked on math. All staff did a workshop in the afternoon learning how to use Google Apps for email. We have a teacher committee working on grants. Upcoming events include K-3 DIBELS testing, second semester starts January 14, 2010, basketball tournament coming up the week of January 18, 2010 and January 22, 2010 will be a core group of teachers receiving special training on meeting the needs of Resource Room students.
INTEGRATION OF SIXTH GRADE INTO JUNIOR HIGH FOR 2010-2011 school year was discussed among administrators, teachers and several parents. The Board listened to the pro’s and con’s of doing this and the opinions of those in attendance. A final decision will be made at the February 10, 2010 Board Meeting.
SITE VISIT EXIT REPORT: Mr. Ashley just received the report from the Department of Education. This is a public document and will be shared with the Board and SIAC and posted on the schools website. Follow up will be done as needed.
UPGRADING GYM LIGHTING: bids were reviewed for upgrading the gym lights. New lights and ballasts need to be ordered immediately which will take about 25 days to receive. The entire job should take only a couple of days and will be a great improvement for the gym. Lindgren made a motion to approve the bid from Steve Bruning for $6,000.00 to replace the gym lights with a second by Vanderholm, the motion carried 5-0.
2009 AUDIT REPORT: was reviewed by Carla Rydberg. Lindgren made a motion to approve the fiscal year 2009 Audit for Stanton School. Sorensen, second. Motion carried 5-0.
CURRICULUM REPORT TO THE BOARD BY CARLA ERICKSON: Math instructor Carla Erickson was present to inform the board of some new methods used in the classroom to teach certain areas of math, i.e. fractions & decimals by using warm up methods and doing homework in classroom. Mrs. Erickson also reported on The Massachusetts Institute of Technology visit from two of their students. We had approximately fifty students participate in the program to challenge their minds in the areas of math and science. They also explained to the students the variety of careers they could go into with math and science and the preliminary classes they need to take to achieve their goals. It was a very good program and the students enjoyed the challenges presented to them.
REVIEW/APPROVE #600 SERIES BOARD POLICIES – EDUCATION PROGRAM: Board Policies #600 (Goals and Objectives of the Education Program) through #607.2 (Student Health Services) were reviewed and approved 5-0 on a motion by Vanderholm, second by Bates.
FIRE MARSHALL REPORT: Review of the Fire Marshall report with 90% of corrections being completed over Christmas break. Responses have been made back to the Fire Marshall by Mr. Ashley and we will request a follow up at a later date to make sure that everything in the building is in compliance with the State Fire Codes.
RACE TO THE TOP: Several staff members have gone to a meeting explaining Race To The Top Federal Program in which school participation with the State of Iowa could lead to additional income for the District for student assessments, improving student achievement and implementing the new Iowa Core Curriculum. Bates made a motion for Stanton School to participate in this program. Lindgren, second. Motion carried 5-0.
ISCAP (Iowa Schools Cash Anticipation Program) was tabled.
OPEN ENROLLMENT out, motion was made by Lindgren, second by Vanderholm for Ashley Zarek to attend Red Oak school for the 2010-2011 school year. Motion carried 5-0.
Superintendent Ashley reported: We have accumulated six snow days to date. At this point these snow days will probably be made up at the end of the school year unless determined otherwise based on additional snow days. A coffee was held to introduce new administrative staff Shirley Maxwell (Business Manager) and Vicky King (Board Secretary) to Stanton School. Stanton School was honored to have four teachers nominated for the Charles E. Lakin award this fall. These teachers were recognized with plaques, Linda Williams, Terri Venneberg, Karen Mead and Jeff Grebin. First semester ended January 13, 2010. We have a calendar staff committee who will recommend a school calendar for the 2010-2011 school year. We just received the final draft of the Site Visit which is public information and will be available to everyone next week via the homepage of our school website (stantonschools.com). Carla Erickson reported a good response on the MIT visit. We will have an early out on January 27, 2010 for Iowa Core Curriculum and an early out on February 10, 2010 for Professional Development. The Big Blue Van was taken to be repainted when it developed transmission problems. It is the consensus of the Board to proceed to fix the van.
A motion by Lindgren for adjournment received a second by Vanderholm and carried 5-0. The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
(Vicki King, Board Secretary)
December 10, 2009--(News Story)
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD CONSIDERS INTEGRATING 6TH GRADE INTO JUNIOR HIGH
On Thursday, December 10, 2009, the Stanton School District board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session. This meeting was moved from December 9th due to a winter storm. President Magneson called the meeting to order with Directors Lindgren, Bates, Vanderholm and Sorensen present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Business Manager Shirley Maxwell (acting as board secretary) and Jason Lura.
Board Policies #505.6 (Early Graduation) through #508.2 (Open Night) were reviewed and approved.
Building and Grounds committee members (Bates and Vanderholm) presented information pertaining to potential projects to be funded by the State Sales Tax. Additional project ideas were offered by Superintendent Ashley and other board members. Some of the higher priority items for the Board were: Continue to update grades 7-12 classrooms; replace elementary hallway carpet; purchase technology upgrades; replace gym lights; meet compliance and upgrades stated in State Fire Marshal report, which will be reviewed in January; consider basic security system; repair/replace security lighting on the north side of the building; repair sidewalk in front of the elementary building entrance. Superintendent Ashley will meet with Tim Pfeiffer to get specifications for the gym light repair project and then bids will be taken for the project.
Superintendent Ashley reported that he had talked with staff members concerning the K-12 staff wage freeze for 2010-2011 pending negotiations with the SEA; reduction of travel costs for both students and staff members; educational field trips will be funded by funds raised from fundraising activities; integrating the 6th grade to junior high; and possible sharing with area schools. The superintendents of Red Oak, Griswold, Villisca, Corning and Stanton continue to meet periodically to see if sharing some staff/programs for 2010-2011 is feasible.
Social Science instructor Jason Lura was present to inform the board of the course descriptions, standards and guidelines for the classes in which he instructs: American History, Sociology, American Government, Civics, and World History.
Superintendent Ashley has been meeting with a team of staff members that has been researching the concept of integrating sixth grade into junior high for the 2010-2011 school year. Letters have been sent home to parents of all 5th grade students to allow input from the parents on this concept. This topic will be on the January agenda for discussion with possible action to be taken at the February board meeting.
President Magneson reported on the recent IASB Convention and the workshops he had attended in Des Moines. Each member was presented a copy of the Board Member’s Code of Ethics. Board members completed a handout “Considering Selected Policy and Legal Responsibilities“. Discussion followed.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 38.25% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 38.03% last year at this time; the Student Safe Program that was scheduled for Dec. 10. 2009 was rescheduled; the site visit was postponed until December 16, 17, and 18th with all interview schedules remaining as previously scheduled only on different dates; on November 16th the State Fire Marshal inspected the K-12 facility (this topic will be on the January 13 board meeting agenda for discussion); Board Secretary Vicky King and Business Manager Shirley Maxwell have been meeting with Carla Rydberg during the month of December for orientation of their new positions. Maxwell will be in the district every Tuesday and Thursday for designated hours, with most of her work being completed off site electronically; December 23rd school will be dismissed at 1:30 for Christmas Vacation; (teachers will return on January 4th for Professional Development with students returning on January 5th); January 13th will be the end of 1st semester; overall the school year is going very well thanks to the staff, parents and students; Board Secretary Carla Rydberg’s last day with the district will be December 31st. (Carla was unable to attend the meeting due to weather conditions.) A plaque will be presented to her for her 19 years of loyal service to the Stanton Community School District as board secretary/business manager. She has done an outstanding job and will be missed greatly.
The meeting adjourned at 9:42 p.m.
(Carla Rydberg, Board Secretary)
(News Story)--November 11, 2009
On Wednesday, November 11, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session. President Magneson called the meeting to order with Directors Lindgren, Bates, Vanderholm and Sorensen present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Rydberg, Vicky King, Shirley Maxwell and Lee Haidsiak.
Principal McClain reported: The butter braid sales and elementary cookie dough fund raiser were a very successful; Iowa Tests of Educational Development were taken the week of October 19 -23, and students improving scores will enjoy an afternoon at the YMCA in Red Oak; an inservice on the state site visit was held November 4, with the comprehensive state site visit to be held December 8 and 9; a SEEDS inservice was held today (November 11); the Career Day on October 15 went very well, with special thanks to the committee who organized that event and the presenters; the National Honor Society Induction was held October 29 with Erick Whigham serving as the keynote speaker; the annual Veteran’s Day program, which was organized by Mr. Hicks, Mr. Lura and the Government class, was held November 10 and featured Dr. Dean Baer as keynote speaker; 5th and 6th grade students participated in the Thinking Cap Quiz Bowl on October 29 and 7th/8th grade students on November 4; parent/teacher conferences were held November 5 and 10, with approximately 71% of secondary student report cards picked up and close to 100% participation by elementary parents in the conferences; an outstanding season for the volleyball team ended in regional finals with a 3-1 loss to Treynor; the football team closed an excellent season with a 42-26 loss to the Adair-Casey Bombers in the quarterfinal round of the state tournament; basketball practice began on November 9th for the girls and November 16 for the boys.
Board Policies #500 (Equal Educational Opportunities for Students) through #505.5 (Graduation Requirements) were reviewed and approved.
Board members reviewed class schedules, staff reduction procedures and budget management options to facilitate making decisions toward offsetting the $95,929 cut in state aid this fiscal year and projected reductions in the coming year. The consensus of the board was to pursue a K-12 staff wage freeze for 2010-2011; reduce travel costs; consider a 6th/7th/8th grade middle school; consider sharing staff/programs with other districts; and make other reductions as needed.
Teacher Lee Haidsiak gave an overview of the math curriculum in junior/senior high school classes, and also gave an interactive demonstration using the new Smart Board.
Board Secretary Rydberg presented a summary of the school district funds, their sources of revenue and specific expenditure guidelines.
Revenue from the statewide one cent sales tax may not be expended for salaries/benefits, but is designated for the purchase of equipment or improvements to facilities/infrastructure costing over $500. The board suggested and reviewed several potential projects, with the Buildings and Grounds Committee (Vanderholm and Bates) to further review those options, which will be considered and prioritized by the full Board in coming months.
Board members reviewed the check list used as a guideline for the state comprehensive site visit to be held at Stanton School on December 8 and 9. A consultant from the Department of Education will review a wide range of documents on December 7, team members will do interviews on December 8 and 9, and also give an exit report on December 9. A written report should be received from the Department of Education within 45 days of the visit.
Jane Hansen has submitted a resignation from her 6th grade teaching position to be effective at the end of this school year and requested the Early Retirement incentive option, which is 25% of the current year’s salary. Jane Hansen’s resignation was accepted with thanks for her years of service, and approval was given to the Early Retirement request.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 30.07% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 29.57% last year at this time; a reminder that the Board now meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7:30 p.m.; November 25th will be an early dismissal, with no school on November 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving vacation; Secretary Rydberg’s last official day will be December 31, with Vicky King to begin training for the Stanton Board Secretary position on December 1, and Shirley Maxwell will serve as the shared Business Manager approximately 8 hours per week; on October 14 the teacher inservice included an Iowa Core Curriculum update and also training on how to better monitor and eliminate student-to-student bullying/harassment, with a student safety assembly to be presented next month; the AEA presented an inservice October 21st on “21st Century Skills,” the student laptop program in schools; area superintendents will meet on November 17 to discuss potential sharing possibilities between districts with the purpose of providing more opportunities for kids and also be more cost effective; congratulations to the band students, football and volleyball players and coaches on their outstanding accomplishments this season; the school year is going well with staff and students working hard and great support from parents and the community .
The meeting adjourned at 10:03 p.m.
(Carla Rydberg, Board Secretary)
(News Story)--Monday, October 12, 2009
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD HOLDS ORGANIZATIONAL MEETING
On Monday, October 12, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Magneson, Lindgren and Vanderholm present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Rydberg, Jeff Sorensen and Brian Bates.
Principal McClain reported: The Friends of Stanton Committee has received a $100,000 Iowa Healthy Communities Grant, has finalized the application for Iowa Nonprofit Corporation status, and will soon have a newsletter; a listing of student organization fundraisers and their purpose was reviewed; congratulations to the Viqueen Volleyball coaches and players on their sixth straight Conference Tournament championship; ITEDs will be given the week of October 19-23; five teachers are attending Math in Career and Technical Education conferences on incorporating math into career and technical fields; the state on-site visit will be held December 8-10; the teacher inservice on October 14 will include training in awareness of bullying and harassment and also Iowa Core Curriculum training by Bob Newsum; the Career Day to be held Thursday, October 15, will be a K-12 experience; congratulations to the band on winning 2nd place in the Shenfest parade and 8th place out of 23 Class A teams at the Clarinda Band Jamboree; a blood drive will be held October 16; end of the first quarter is October 28; National Honor Society induction will be October 29; Parent/Teacher conferences will be held November 3 and 5, with no school on November 6; the Veteran’s Day program will be November 10; and a SEEDS inservice will be held on November 11.
Superintendent Ashley reported there were nine applicants for the advertised part time school nurse position. The board approved hiring Pam Estes as part time school nurse at $15 per hour for up to eight hours per week.
Board Policies #403.5 through #414.7 on Employees were reviewed and approved.
Following discussion of potential options for a Board meeting date and time, starting on November 11 the monthly board meetings will be held on the second Wednesday every month at 7:30 p.m.
Board Secretary Rydberg reported the official canvass of votes for the September 8, 2009 School Board Election showed a total of 223 votes cast, with Brian Bates receiving 72 votes, Mark Lindgren receiving 68 votes, Jeff Sorensen receiving 71 votes, and a scattering of 12 other votes. Therefore, Brian Bates, Mark Lindgren and Jeff Sorensen were duly elected to the office of Director at Large for the Stanton Community School District for a four year term.
The retiring Board adjourned at 8:18 p.m. followed by Superintendent Ashley presenting a plaque and words of thanks to retiring board member and President David Bruning.
The meeting of the new Board was called to order at 8:30 p.m, and the Oath of Office was administered to newly elected members Mark Lindgren, Brian Bates and Jeff Sorensen. Jeff Magneson was elected president, Mark Lindgren vice president and the following committees were appointed for 2009-2010: Transportation Committee – Lindgren and Bates; Buildings and Grounds Committee – Vanderholm and Bates; Negotiations Committee – Vanderholm and Sorensen; Budget Management Committee – Magneson and Lindgren.
In the annual approval of persons authorized to sign school checks, the Board approved the board secretary to sign all checks as per state law, with Principal Dennis McClain to co-sign Activity Fund checks and Board President Magneson to co-sign checks for all other funds.
Superintendent Ashley reported the Project Easier certification system is now used to compile certified enrollment figures and the deadline is October 15 for collection of that data. He noted that from the end of last school year to October 1 this year Stanton School is down three students, while from October 1, 2008 to October 1, 2009, we have seven less students enrolled. Students in the new preschool program are counted as .6 each, so with the addition of those preschool students the total certified student enrollment will be up 7.9 students from the prior year. Stanton will be serving 275.4 students this year compared to 267.5 students last year, with those numbers including 78 open enrolled into the district, 8 open enrolled out, and 2 special education students tuitioned out. The additional $57,000 funding generated from the Shared Business Manager position will be received next fiscal year.
Director Lindgren was elected to serve as the representative on the Montgomery County Board.
Superintendent Ashley noted the annual Iowa Association of School Board’s Convention will be held November 18 and 19 this year at the Hy-Vee Hall/Iowa Events Center in Des Moines, with the President Magneson registered for the delegate assembly on Wednesday.
Each board member and Superintendent Ashley shared their thoughts and expectations for the district, including the freedom and trust to voice opinions; unity in supporting decisions made as a board; willingness to listen to concerns of the public and direct those concerns to the appropriate person for resolution; making informed decisions with the goal of what is best for the kids; staying positive and continuing to move forward while being realistic and open to new ideas; being a sounding board to communicate with each other and constituents; proactive use of one cent sales tax monies to keep facilities in top shape and also stay on the cutting edge of technology; and serving as a professional team to continually make sure the school district is the best it can be.
Superintendent Ashley reported: On October 7 an inservice was held with the state consultant in preparation for the state site visit on December 8, 9 and 10; the students and staff recently had two great days at Viking Lake learning about the Lewis and Clark expedition and riding the keel boat; October 15 a Career Day will be held for all K-12 students; the October 14 inservice will include a training for staff on recognizing and eliminating bullying and harassment; input will be received from students on who they consider to be positive leaders; October 28 is the end of the first quarter; Parent/Teacher Conferences will be held November 3 and 5, with a 1:30 dismissal on those days and the conferences held in the evening; there will be no school on November 6; the annual AEA/LEA inservice and dinner will be held October 14 in Creston with a “21st Century Skills” presentation; the 10% across-the-board cuts by the state will mean approximately $96,000 less in state aid for Stanton School in 2010, so tough decisions will be required in the next few months on budget reduction options; the Iowa Association of School Boards organization had a shortfall of $900,000 the past year; the students and staff are working hard with lots of great things happening, so the school year is off to an excellent start.
The meeting adjourned at 9:50 p.m.
(Carla Rydberg, Board Secretary)
September 14, 2009--(News Story)
ANNUAL MEETING FOR STANTON SCHOOL BOARD
On Monday, September 14, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 6:30 p.m. for a tour of the buildings and grounds and at 7:00 p.m. convened in the high school board room for the annual meeting. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Magneson, Maher, Lindgren and Vanderholm present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Rydberg, Jeff Sorensen and Brian Bates. Board Secretary Rydberg presented the 2008-2009 Certified Annual Report and Superintendent Ashley highlighted the 2008-2009 Superintendent’s Annual Report, which were both approved, and the annual meeting adjourned at 7:37 p.m.
President Bruning immediately brought the regular session to order with the same people present. Principal McClain reported: The first SEEDS inservice was held September 8, focusing on teaching styles assessments and student learning styles; the football and volleyball seasons are going well; students are participating in a Lewis and Clark Adventure being held at Viking Lake this week featuring a 60’ keel boat; and this week is also filled with homecoming activities.
Board Policies #400 through #403.4 (Employees) were reviewed and approved.
At 8:00 p.m. the board recessed to the high school computer lab for a joint session with the School Improvement Advisory Committee. Using the newly installed “Smart Board,” Principal McClain presented an overview of student achievement data for 2008-2009, Annual Improvement Goals, ACT score summaries of the graduating class, and 2009-2010 PSEO and 28e classes available to Stanton students. Mr. Boyer presented highlights from the 2008-2009 Iowa Youth Survey, which included summaries of responses by 8th and 11th graders giving their perspective on use of alcohol, tobacco and drugs; adult supervision outside of school; working a paid job; suicidal plans; sexual values; trust and respect; bullying; and safety of the school environment. Input from the SIAC included considering additional training/inservice for staff and students on defining, recognizing, and stopping bullying/harassment; looking at curriculum to include as many classes as possible to better prepare our students for college; and emphasizing awareness that staff, students, parents and administration are all responsible as partners in the education of all our children.
At 9:20 p.m. the board reconvened in the High School Board Room with the same people present.
Superintendent Ashley noted the State of Iowa no longer allows waivers for not having a school nurse. The part time position has been advertised for the 2009-2010 school year and he is also contacting other local schools to discuss sharing six to eight hours per week of their contracted school nurse time. Secretaries Jody Druivenga and Tammy Boyer have taken courses on administration of medications and currently fulfill those student needs on a daily basis. Superintendent Ashley will have a recommendation for the Board at the October meeting on fulfilling the requirements of having a school nurse.
The following open enrollment applications were approved for 2009-2010: Cheyenne Thomas, 10th grade daughter of Tammy Guyer, from the Red Oak School District to Stanton School; Sarah Junkin, 11th grade daughter of Laura Malone, from the Fremont-Mills School District to Stanton School; and Alexandria McFarland, 12th grade daughter of Tammy McFarland, from Griswold School District to Stanton School.
In order to allow shared Business Manager Shirley Maxwell the opportunity to attend the Stanton School Board meetings, moving the regular meetings to the third Monday each month was discussed, along with other potential days or times. Action on this agenda item was tabled until the October 12 reorganizational meeting.
In other business, for 2009-2010 the Board: Appointed Ahlers and Cooney, PC of Des Moines as legal counsel regarding arbitration, terminations, liability issues, etc. and Swanson Law Firm of Red Oak as local legal counsel; named Great Western Bank of Stanton as the district’s financial depository; and set the depository limit at $2 million.
Due to an estimated potential deficit of approximately $18,000 in special education funding that did not cover actual costs for 2008-2009, approval was given to request additional allowable growth from the state department to help alleviate that deficit, which would be financed through property taxes.
Blake Cooper as approved to serve as AEA 14 District #2 Director for 2009-2010.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 13.73% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 14.33% a year ago; $7,280 has been received from the City of Stanton and CIPCO as a rebate on the Fujitsu air conditioning/heating units recently installed in the grades 7-12 classrooms; Homecoming is this Friday, September 18th, with school dismissed at 11:20 elementary and 11:30 junior-senior high school, and the parade at 1:30 p.m.; there will be an early dismissal on September 23 for an Iowa Core Curriculum inservice, on October 14 there will be no school while an Iowa Core Curriculum inservice is held, and October 28 is the end of the first quarter with an early dismissal that day. Concerning bus driver physicals, the law has changed so they are only required every other year, but must be completed on a D.O.T. form (instead of the usual employer form) and insurance companies will not pay any of the cost for the physical, which is now generally at least $160. Board policy currently states the bus drivers will be reimbursed up to $45 per year for a physical not paid by the employee’s insurance, so consensus of the Board to reimburse $90 for the biennial physical was given. Superintendent Ashley also reported: Current K-6 enrollment is 131, which is up 3 from last year, and 7-12 enrollment is 133, which is down 6 from last year, so right now it looks like the total enrollment for the year will be down three students, however the official count date is October 1 with preschool and tuitioned out numbers to be factored in; thank you to Chuck Eklof for doing the landscaping by the south gym door; the Friday morning Stanton School news report at 6:15 a.m. on KSCI Radio is going well and includes reports by staff, students, teachers, administration and board members; the ‘97 Dodge Ram van that pulls the trailer carrying football, band or art equipment to events is in need of new paint, and this project can be done by students in Jeff Magneson’s class at Southwestern Community College for approximately $700 to $1,000; and the school year is going well, with students and staff working hard.
The meeting adjourned at 10:04 p.m.
(Carla Rydberg, Board Secretary)
August 21, 2009--(News Story)
PRESCHOOL SHARING AGREEMENT APPROVED
On Friday, August 21, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a special meeting. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Magneson, Maher, Vanderholm and Lindgren present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Olson, Brian Bates, Jeff Sorensen, and members of the Mamrelund Lutheran Church and Good Shepherd Preschool Boards.
Bob Allen presented a break-down of costs associated with providing the preschool program, such as utilities, custodial services, and insurance. The newly-instituted four-year-old preschool program via state funding will be a total of 24 hours per week of instruction, which will follow Headstart guidelines while continuing to include faith-based instruction. Currently there are 19 students signed up for that preschool program, however only the 13 four-year-old students can be funded by the state grant. To fit within the parameters of the newly estimated $44,980 total funding for the coming year, the Mamrelund Lutheran Church Council agreed to rent the church basement to the school for $500 per month and the school agreed to subsidize the Good Shepherd Christian Preschool Program by absorbing the remainder of the difference of the budget deficit based on 13 four year olds instead of 19 four year old students. The sharing agreement with consensual changes was then reviewed and the Sharing Agreement with Good Shepherd Christian Preschool for a Statewide Voluntary Preschool Program for Four-Year-Old was approved. Superintendent Ashley extended thanks to all present for working together for the benefit of four year olds, their families and the community.
The meeting adjourned at 9:47 p.m.
(Carla Olson Rydberg, Board Secretary)
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD SETS LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
On Monday, August 10, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular monthly session. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Lindgren, Magneson, Vanderholm and Maher present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Olson, Shirley Maxwell, Brian Bates, Bob Allen, Tim Johnson, Jeff Sorensen, Mark and Melanie Peterson.
Principal McClain reported: A Smart Board and 24 Smart Response remotes have been ordered and will be set up in Mr. Haidsiak’s classroom; football camp was held last week and volleyball camp is now in progress; registration will be held August 17 and 18; teacher in-service day is August 21; the elementary open house is also Friday, August 21 from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m.; and everyone is getting geared up for the new school year.
Following review of the bid that had been evaluated at the July board meeting, approval was given a bid from Iowa Prison Industries to provide fifteen 60” fruitwood bookcases for three high school classrooms for a total of $5,472.00.
Approval was also given to a bid from Dickel Duit Outdoor Power, Inc., to purchase a 72” Hustler mower with a 31 HP Kawasaki engine and rear discharge for $8,999.90
Principal McClain reported a meeting with the Good Shepherd Preschool Board had produced some revisions to the sharing agreement for a Four Year Old Preschool program to meet the requirements of all parties. Those details are being finalized and the agreement will be ready for Board review next month. Principal McClain also stated those preschool students will be entered into the school’s JMC student reporting program. The new curriculum should provide a smooth transition from preschool to kindergarten and better meet the needs of four year olds. Superintendent Ashley noted the Four Year Old Preschool Grant requires preschool staff to meet state certification requirements. Action was tabled until September on the Sharing Agreement with Mamrelund Lutheran Church for the Four Year Old Preschool Program.
Following review and discussion, the board approved the following five as their top 2009 IASB Legislative Action Priorities and Resolutions:
· Support preserving the integrity of the statewide penny sales tax for school infrastructure, including the tax equity provisions of buying down the highest additional levy rates to the state average.
· Support funding to ensure that all three and four year olds have access to a high quality public school preschool program by including preschool students in the enrollment count. Support local district spending authority in the event of a future state spending reduction. Programs must strive to meet the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Early Childhood Program Standards. The program must include certified staff and align instruction and assessment to the Iowa Early Learning Standards.
· Support setting allowable growth at a rate that encourages continuous school improvement and reflects actual cost increases experienced by school districts. The allowable growth rate should be set no lower than 6 percent. Equivalent state categorical funding is not a substitute for adequate allowable growth. Our priority is to increase and maintain the state cost per pupil and the spending authority associated with it to build a strong base for future education resources.
· Support a four-year phase in to achieve full funding of the state’s portion of the instructional support levy. During the transition period, support an equitable pro-ration formula and school district spending authority for any shortfall.
· Support the locally elected school board as the final authority to utilize and allocate funding that best meets the needs of students and the district.
In other action the board approved the K-6 student handbooks, 7-12 student handbooks, and set the annual board meeting for Monday, September 14th, with a building and grounds tour at 6:30 p.m., annual meeting/reports to the Board at 7:00 p.m. in the high school board room, followed by the regular monthly meeting at 7:30 p.m.
Director Magneson was appointed as the 2009-2010 Iowa Association of School Board delegate and Legislative Action Network representative.
Information from Rhett Goy of Nishna Insurance noted that all the school vehicles currently have Actual Cash Value coverage, however Stated Amount coverage is available for three of the five school buses that are less than ten years old. If a vehicle is totaled, the State Amount coverage would allow compensation based on the cost of the vehicle when purchased rather than current value. The premium increase to change the coverage on these three buses from Actual Cash Value to Stated Amount would be $145 per year. On the property section of the school’s insurance coverage, the following increases in coverage were recommended: Coverage on baseball and softball scoreboards be increased from $8,385 to $10,144; concession stand coverage from $35,618 to $50,000; increase the coverage on the football and softball lights from $47,817 to $100,000; insure the north side skybox for $8,134; and add the garage insured at $7,500. To make these changes would increase the annual premium $71. Following a discussion, the recommended changes in vehicle coverage and the increases in other property coverage were approved.
All #300 Series Board Policies on Administration were reviewed and approved.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 6.69% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 7.36% a year ago; student registration will be held August 17 and 18, from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the high school office; our state on-site visit will be held December 8-10 and will be comprehensive, including students, staff and the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC); the first day of school will be August 24 with lunch served and a 1:30 dismissal that day; there will be no early dismissals for heat this year since the 7-12 air conditioning has now been installed and is operational; installation of the new roofing system has been completed; new carpeting and desks are in three of the 7-12 classrooms, with the bookcases to arrive in September; students must have a physical and proof of insurance before participating in sports activities; there will be no school on Labor Day, September 7, or September 8 for a professional development day; school board elections will also be held on September 8; thanks to the Stanton American Legion, who has offered to replace the school flag pole and possibly also the big flag displayed in the gym for the Veteran’s Day program; we are looking forward to another outstanding school year, continuing to build and improve on great achievements.
Director Magneson noted there will be a meeting of the Friends of Stanton Committee on August 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the community room. This will be a good opportunity to meet with the architect, engineer and planners and provide input on the proposed community Viking Center.
Director Vanderholm stated a large tree had been cut down at Anderson Park, and Director Magneson offered to donate and plant a replacement tree from him and his son Dayne.
The meeting adjourned at 8:46 p.m.
(Carla Rydberg, Board Secretary)
JULY 13, 2009, REGULAR MEETING
On Monday, July 13, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular monthly session. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Lindgren, Vanderholm, Magneson and Maher present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Olson, Brian Bates and Rhett Goy.
Principal McClain reported: A contract between Stanton Community School and Good Shepherd Christian Preschool for provision of a four-year-old preschool is currently being reviewed by both boards; Darra Reed will attend a state orientation meeting on July 16 concerning those preschool requirements; two laptop computers and a printer will be purchased to facilitate those required reporting needs; and the requisite preschool supplies will soon be ordered. He also noted: Suggestions were received from students on a potential incentive program for meeting or exceeding ITBS and ITED goals; the softball/baseball season is winding down and the Stanton teams are having successful seasons; the “Stories and More” program held on Tuesday afternoons over the ICN will conclude this week; and the elementary Back to School Night will be held Friday, August 21, for students and parents to bring school supplies and see their classrooms.
The following bids were received to upgrade three grade 7-12 classrooms – Doyle Floor Covering, $6,026 for commercial grade carpet and high grade commercial backing; Iowa Prison Industries, $4,750 for 50 wood student desks. For cabinetry with no doors – Iowa Prison Industries bid $5,325 (12” deep), and United Farmers Mercantile $11,220. United Farmers Mercantile also submitted two bids for cabinetry with doors: (18” deep shelves) $8,025, or (24” deep shelves) $13,125. Board approval was given to the Doyle bid of $6,026 for carpet and Iowa Prison Industries bid of $4,750 for desks received a second by Magneson and 5-0 approval. The Buildings and Grounds Committee (Bruning and Lindgren) were instructed to get more details on the cabinets and make the final decision for that purchase.
Red Oak School has approved the proposed agreement to share the services of business manager Shirley Maxwell with Stanton School for 20% of her contracted time for 2009-2010, with Stanton to pay Red Oak School $5,000 annually for those services. Participating in this operational sharing program will generate additional funding for both districts. The board approved the Operational Sharing Agreement with Red Oak School for business manager services for 2009-2010.
The following 2009-2010 board goals were approved:
· Continue to emphasize student achievement in all areas so every individual is equipped to be successful in reaching their full potential in school and throughout their lives.
· Provide a safe, affirmative, well-equipped learning environment
· Continue to make fiscally responsible decisions and sustain a balanced budget
· Emphasize importance of positive patron support and interaction with students, teachers and coaches
· Maintain all facilities and equipment at the highest level
· Promote partnerships with community organizations
· Encourage continual professional development of teachers, administrators and board members for the most effective student instruction
· Explore educational alliances with other institutions to provide additional educational opportunities for students
Rhett Goy of Nishna Insurance Agency presented an overview of the proposed 2009-2010 property/liability insurance coverage for 2009-2010, with an annual premium of $35,389
Upon recommendation by Superintendent Ashley, Vicky King was hired as Board Secretary/Principal Secretary for the 2009-2010, with the contracted annual salary of $32,000 prorated based on seven months of service to begin December 1, 2009.
Student achievement data will be reported to the School Improvement Advisory Committee (SIAC) on September 14, 2009 at 8:30 p.m. in the high school computer lab.
Superintendent Ashley reported over 30 applications were received for the grades 7-12 social studies teaching position. Following interviews, the administration recommended and the board approved hiring Jason Lura, who has eight years teaching experience and has held various coaching duties. Jason Lura was also hired to fill the 2009-2010 positions of assistant varsity girls basketball coach, junior high girls basketball coach, assistant boys varsity track coach, and junior high assistant football coach.
Superintendent Ashley reported two excellent candidates were interviewed for the head volleyball coach position, Jessica Browning and Jody Druivenga. He noted Jessica Browning of Red Oak has coached club volleyball for four years, coached several volleyball camps and also served as grad assistant volleyball coach at the University of Dubuque. Jessica Browning was hired as head volleyball coach for fall 2009.
In other business, the board: Approved the AE Dairy escalator bid (with milk in cartons, not plastic) and Hy-Vee bread bid for the 2009-2010 Hot Lunch Program; tabled a decision on the sharing agreement with Mamrelund Lutheran Church for the four year old preschool program for 2009-2010 until both boards have the opportunity to review the contract; and approved an open enrollment request by Brent and Jennifer Bass for their kindergarten son Camryn Bass from Essex School District to Stanton for 2009-2010.
Superintendent Ashley reported the Country Clipper riding lawn mower was recently repaired at a cost of $1,000 to replace a gear box. A bid from Dickel Duit for a 72” Hustler with 27HP Kohler engine and a bid from A&M Green Power for a 60” John Deere were reviewed. Following discussion, the Transportation Committee (Maher and Magneson) was instructed to check on the possibility of purchasing a Hustler with a 72” deck and 31HP Kawasaki engine and make a decision based on the best choice for use on the school property.
A consensus of the board approved Mark Lindgren to serve as delegate and Paul Vanderholm as alternate to vote on representatives for District #3 in the newly reorganized consolidation of Loess Hills AEA 13 and Green Valley AEA 14.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 94.52% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 93.78% a year ago; air conditioning is now operational in the K-12 facility and being used as needed; the K-12 roofing system is currently being installed, with a projected completion date of early August; the gym walls have been painted; parking lines have been repainted, with some handicap accessible slots added; thanks to custodians Steve Johnson, Stephanie Parsons and Casey Elwood for their excellent job on summer maintenance projects; congratulations to the softball team on their 2nd place finish in the Corner Conference and the baseball team for a first place conference finish; registration will be held August 17 and 18, from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the high school office both days, with insurance and physical forms also currently available in the high school office; August 24 will be the first day of school with a 1:30 dismissal that day. He also noted the school board election will be held September 8, with three positions up for election this year. Nomination papers may be obtained in the board secretary’s office and the completed forms submitted to her by 5:00 p.m. on July 30. Currently Brian Bates, Jeff Sorensen and Mark Lindgren have taken out nomination papers. The organizational meeting will be held in October, with a potential change in board meeting day to be considered so shared business manager Shirley Maxwell could be available to attend.
The meeting adjourned at 9:45 p.m.
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD MEETS
On Monday, June 8, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular monthly session with President Bruning and Directors Magneson, Maher, Lindgren and Vanderholm present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Olson, Sheila Mainquist and Jeff Sorensen.
Principal McClain reported: Thirty three projects were submitted for Teacher Quality Professional Development, with 14 of those currently completed and approved for per diem payment; softball and baseball are underway and the upgraded ball field looks great; a basketball camp for girls was held last week and boys camp this week; the end of school year Accelerated Reader party was held at the Montgomery County YMCA; June 16 through July 14 grades K-4 students may participate in the Stories and More program over the ICN on Tuesday afternoons.
Principal McClain reported the collaborative application with Red Oak School for a Four Year Old Preschool grant had received approval. The Stanton preschool will be housed at Mamrelund Lutheran Church with classes to be held Monday through Thursday, 11:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and taught by Darra Reed. The state will host an informational meeting on July 16 for all schools who were awarded the grant. Red Oak School will be the fiscal agent for the grant, with Stanton School providing all equipment and curriculum to meet state guidelines. Superintendent Ashley extended compliments to Principal McClain and Principal Buck Laughlin and all those who put the successful grant application together.
Superintendent Ashley reported there has been ongoing discussion between the Stanton and Red Oak superintendents and business managers concerning the concept and possibility of the two schools participating in an operational sharing agreement for the business manager position. The State of Iowa allows supplemental weighting for schools sharing a person in the functions of superintendent, human resources, business management, transportation management or custodial management. Criteria includes each of the participating districts proving a cost savings from the sharing agreement and increased expenditures for students, with the full time person to be in the shared district a minimum of 20% of the contract time period during the fiscal year. Superintendent Ashley noted with the December 31st retirement of current Board Secretary Carla Olson, this is an appropriate time to consider the sharing arrangement that would meet the needs of both districts and also generate additional sharing dollars. Following review of a sharing agreement draft, the board approved sharing the business manager position with Red Oak Community School for 2009-2010.
Guidance Counselor Sheila Mainquist presented 2008-2009 student achievement results, with comparisons to state and national scores on Iowa Test of Basic Skills and Iowa Test of Education Development scores, and also Iowa Collaborative Assessment Module outcomes for grades 4, 8 and 11.
The Board reviewed two bids received with estimated costs to carpet the high school office area and also discussed updating some of the older classrooms in the original Valley View section of the building. At 8:35 p.m. the Board went to view those specific classrooms and reconvened at 8:52 p.m. Superintendent Ashley was directed to receive bids for refurbishing the three classrooms on the south side of the Valley View hallway by removing the current cabinets and sinks and replacing that with storage shelving, carpeting the three classrooms and purchasing new desks for two of the rooms. Action on carpeting the high school office area was tabled.
The following philosophies were discussed as guidelines and setting 2009-2010 board goals:
· Continue to emphasize student achievement in all areas so every individual is equipped to be successful in reaching their full potential in school and throughout their lives.
· Provide a safe, positive, well-equipped learning environment
· Continue to make fiscally responsible decisions and sustain a balanced budget
· Maintain all facilities and equipment at the highest level
· Promote partnerships with community organizations
· Encourage continual professional development of teachers, administrators and board members for the most effective student instruction
· Explore educational alliances with other institutions to provide additional educational opportunities for students
In other business the Board approved with thanks for their service to the district: The resignation of Gary Stephens from his Head Volleyball coaching contract for fall 2009; the resignation of Shane Stephens from his 7-12 Social Studies teaching contract for 2009-2010; and resignation of Shane Stephens from the following 2009-2010 coaching contracts: Softball; Assistant Girls Varsity Basketball; Junior High Girls Basketball; Assistant Boys Varsity Track; and Junior High Assistant Football.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 86.71% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 85.82% a year ago; baseball and softball games have started; huge thanks to Don Hicks and Kevin Cabbage and the many volunteers who gave our baseball field a tremendous upgrade with a new concrete backstop, fencing, dugouts, press box, new spectator seating, foul poles, and infield sod; the 7-12 air conditioning project is close to completion and should be ready to go by June 15, which means all K-12 classrooms will be air conditioned so there will no longer be any need for early dismissals due to heat; McDermott Roofing is to begin the roofing project at the end of June; six new PC’s have been ordered for our high school computer lab; report cards were available for pick-up from the offices through June 5, with those remaining to mailed if there are no fees due from the students; a big thank you to staff, parents and especially students for a great school year, and to board members for all the time and effort invested to ensure our students are successful in all areas of life.
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
(Carla Olson, Board Secretary)
(News Story)--Tuesday, May 19, 2009
STANTON SCHOOL APPROVES ROOF BID
On Monday, May 19, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a special session. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Magneson, Maher, Lindgren, and Vanderholm present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Secretary Olson, and Jeff Sorensen.
Jerry Baldwin, President of Triple C Roofing, Inc., of Woodbine, IA, presented information on a ballasted rubber polyurethane roof system to cover the central and west portions of the school building for $135,360.00.
Ray Cooper and associates of Roof Tech in Shenandoah presented options for installing a “Pro-Water Stop Restoration System” (sprayed, rubberized material) at a cost of $159,787.00.
Rob Clausen of McDermott and Sons Roofing, Atlantic, presented a Duro-Last Roofing System at a cost of $69,859.31. This roofing system is a 40 mil white membrane that is mechanically attached to the metal deck of the building.
Following review of the roofing options presented, the board approved the roofing system bid of $69,859.31 by McDermott and Sons Roofing of Atlantic.
A special meeting to consider expulsion of a student as per Iowa Code 21.5 was set for Monday, May 25 at 7:30 p.m. provided all parties are available to attend, with Wednesday, May 27 an alternate date if needed.
The meeting adjourned at 9:58 p.m.
(Carla Olson, Board Secretary)
(News Story--Monday, May 11, 2009)
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD MEETING
On Monday, May 11, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular monthly session. President Bruning called the meeting to order with Directors Magneson, Maher, Lindgren, and Vanderholm present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Olson, and Brian Bates.
Principal McClain reported: Notification should be received by May 14 on Four Year Old Preschool Grant approvals; Project Proactive included a student assembly and opportunity for junior/senior high students to list the kids they feel are positive role models and also those who are not; teachers are working on professional development activities that include Iowa Core Curriculum research, read-alouds, and developing math activities; there will potentially be 19 students in the coming kindergarten class; elementary field trips are being held in May; senior field trip is May 18-20, senior commencement May 23, eighth grade graduation May 26; the last day of classes will be June 1, with an early dismissal that day; and teacher inservice will be held June 2.
The Board reviewed and approved Series 100 School District and Series 200 School Board policies.
Superintendent Ashley reported Red Oak School and Business Manager Shirley Maxwell are willing to discuss a sharing agreement with Stanton School for the Board Secretary position. Sharing that position would generate additional funding for both districts, with Stanton School receiving approximately $54,000 from the state in the first year of the arrangement. Stanton School would still hire a person to be trained to replace retiring Board Secretary Olson, with Mrs. Maxwell to dedicate 20% of her contracted time providing financial oversight for the Stanton district. To receive the additional sharing dollars from the state, any operational function sharing agreements must be in place by July 1. Superintendent Ashley was directed to work with Superintendent Schmidt in finalizing details of a sharing agreement/contract for the board secretary position for 2009-2010.
Governmental Accounting Standards Board (GASB) Standard Number 45 is a requirement that must be met by all school districts by June 30, 2010. This standard was issued to improve the financial transparency of the cost of Other Post Employment Benefits (OPEB), which are benefits other than pensions and generally take the form of healthcare benefits provided to certain retirees. These insurance premiums for retirees would normally be higher than premiums for active employees, however Iowa law does not permit governmental entities to charge the age adjusted premium so this cost is averaged, resulting in the same premium for both active and retired employees. The additional cost of including the retired employees is recognized as an OPEB liability. This liability is not required to be funded, but an actuarial valuation must be completed and the results reported in the school’s audit report. Approval was given to contract with Iowa Association of School Boards for GASB 45 Compliance Services.
In other business the Board approved the list of 24 students scheduled to graduate from Stanton High School on May 23, 2009, and also the English Language Learner Plan for Stanton Schools, The following open enrollment applications for 2009-2010 were approved: Ashley Kier, 12th grade daughter of Lori Kier, from Red Oak School to Stanton; Levi Martin, kindergarten child of Daniel and Emily Martin, from Villisca School to Stanton; Ethan Fillmore, kindergarten son of David and Lisa Fillmore, from Red Oak School to Stanton; and Tory Carrick, kindergarten child of Todd and Sherry Carrick, from Red Oak School to Stanton.
Upon recommendation by Superintendent Ashley, Casey Elwood was hired as part time assistant custodian for the summer at $7.50 per hour.
Due to no longer driving a special education route, Deb Helm has elected to resign from her special education driver’s position, and that resignation was approved with thanks and best wishes.
Notice will be published notice requesting sealed contractor bids for the K-12 roof replacement project.
In the final hours of the last session, the state legislators approved eliminating all Phase I funding to school districts. For Stanton School the 2009 Phase I amount was $16,670 or approximately $704 per teacher. The Stanton Teacher Master Contract allows backing phase money out of the salary schedule if the state does not fund the program, however all teacher contracts for 2009-2010 have been signed and returned. Input will be received from the Stanton Education Association membership on deletion of Phase I from the salary schedule and a resolution for this 2009-2010 funding shortage.
The consensus of the Board was to set a special board meeting for Tuesday, May 19, at 7:30 p.m.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 76.11% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 71.26% a year ago; the Utility Replacement Excise Tax figure on the 2009-2010 budget has been corrected to $18,975, which aligns with the rest of the budget figures and increases the levy rate by 52 cents and decreased the ending General Fund balance by $1,803; a recent weekly bulletin included precautions to be taken concerning the recent flu outbreak; School Board Recognition Week is May 10-16, with thanks extended to board members for their hard work and dedication; and thank you to parents, students and teachers for a great effort this year.
The meeting adjourned at 9:27 p.m.
(Carla Olson, Board Secretary)
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES BUDGET
On Monday, April 13, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:15 p.m. in the high school board room for a Budget Hearing of the proposed 2009-2010 fiscal budget. President Bruning called the session to order with Directors Magneson, Maher and Lindgren present (Vanderholm absent). Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, secretary Olson, Jeff Sorensen and Brian Bates. Superintendent Ashley and Secretary Olson, presented the proposed budget estimate for 2009-2010, which is on a GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) basis. The proposed estimated fiscal budget totals $3,118,400 for all funds and includes a 10% Instructional Support Levy; a 40% Budget Guarantee of $28,285; maximum allowed Cash Reserve Levy of $104,931; and total tax levy per thousand of $12.92236, compared to $12.51306 the prior year. The estimated budget was approved and the hearing adjourned at 7:35.
President Bruning called the regular monthly meeting of the Stanton School Board to order at 7:35 p.m. in the High School Board room with the same people present. Principal McClain reported: The final meeting for Iowa Core Curriculum guidelines was held today and the implementation plan continues to be worked on; SEEDS meetings for the year are complete and there will be a leadership meeting on April 28; the English Language Learner plan will be presented for Board approval in May; Rick Boyer and Sheila Mainquist attended a recent Regional CTE Academy planning meeting; Alex Whigham was selected to participate in the All State Speech Festival with “Tossing Cookies,” a speech on learning to juggle; and kindergarten roundup will be held April 21.
Principal cClain reviewed highlights of the Four Year Old Preschool Grant application that was recently submitted as a joint effort of Stanton and Red Oak Community Schools. The plan would provide for serving approximiately 100 preschool students in Red Oak and 20 students in Stanton. The decision on approval should be known by May 14.
Principal McClain summarized highlights of the Special Education Delivery Plan that has been available for public review and input. Board approval was given to the plan, which outlines levels of service based on the needs of the individual students and how those services will be implemented for ultimate effectiveness and also meeting state standards
Following review and discussion, an amendment to the current 2008-2009 budget was approved. The amendment allows expenditures in the Instruction function to be increased from $1,762,100 to $1,820,000 to allow for payment of additional Teacher Quality monies received; and increased the Noninstructional Programs function from $111,500 to $114,000 due to increased costs. This change in estimates of expenditures will be financed from increased receipts and balances not budgeted or considered in the current budget and there will be no increase in taxes to be paid in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009.
Sharing agreements were approved for 2009-2010 with Southwestern Community College, Red Oak School and Villisca School District which will facilitate Stanton students participating in classes for Health Careers I, Health Careers II, HSC 114 Medical Terminology and EMT Basic for 2009-2010.
Board members reviewed the six state-mandated guidelines for board evaluation of the superintendent, and were also provided with a statement of evidence showing how those standards are being fulfilled. Superintendent evaluation forms were completed by board members and submitted to President Bruning, who will review that composite input with Superintendent Ashley.
Approval was given to the proposed 2009-2010 school calendar, which has classes starting on Monday, August 24; winter break beginning with early dismissal on December 23 and classes resuming January 5; spring break on March 19; vacation days April 2 and 5; commencement May 22; and the final day of classes May 27. Any snow days would potentially be made up at the end of the school year.
Iowa Schools Anticipation Cash Program (ISCAP) is a nonprofit corporation that administers a joint exercise of powers agreement by Iowa school corporations and the Iowa Association of School Boards under the authority of Iowa Code Chapter 28E to provide an efficient and economical way to fund General Fund deficits and temporary cash flow shortages by issuing anticipatory warrants for qualifying school corporations. A resolution was adopted authorizing and providing for the issuance, and authorizing and directing the final terms and conditions of sale and delivery of warrants evidenced by warrant certificates for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010, and amending the Master Resolution for ISCAP participation.
Following review of a Corner Conference superintendent salary comparison showing the average salary of the top five people is $94,300 for the current year, the board approved increasing Superintendent Ashley’s salary to $92,800 for 2009-2010, which is 2% or an $1,800 increase.
Six applications were received for the advertised secondary math teacher position and Carla Erickson of Clarinda was hired to fill the position. Mrs. Erickson also has a middle school endorsement and has taught math, science and social studies for the last six years.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 69.79% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 67.71% a year ago; school will be in session May 29 and June 1 for make-up days, with June 2nd a professional development/work day for the teachers; our on-site state visit is scheduled for December 8, 9, 10, 2009 and will involve parents, students, staff, board and SIAC members; registration dates for the next school year will be August 17th and 18th, 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on both of those days in the high school office; kindergarten roundup is Tuesday, April 21, in the high school concourse and gym, with potentially 18 students for that class; the high school awards program will be Wednesday, May 13th at 1:00 p.m.; Baccalaureate is May 17th at 7:30 p.m.; senior trip is scheduled for May 18 through 20; high school commencement will be held Saturday, May 23, 7:30 p.m.; eighth grade graduation will be Tuesday, May 26, at 7:30 p.m.; and junior-senior prom is Saturday, May 2. The vacancy for board secretary/business manager has been advertised locally, with two applicants to be interviewed Wednesday. The possibility is also being considered to share part of the job with Red Oak School via their business manager Shirley Maxwell and Stanton would hire someone to do data entry and serve as board secretary. Provided the sharing of that position could show a cost savings, additional incentive money would be available from the state to both the Stanton and Red Oak District. Superintendent Ashley also noted: Kevin Cabbage has written and received grants to help fund the facelift of the baseball field, and thanks to financial donors and lots of volunteers it’s going to be a great improvement; board policies are continually updated as laws change, with an overall review now planned so board members were asked to review the 100 and 200 series policies prior to the May meeting; work is progressing on installation of air conditioning in the 7-12 facility with an estimated finish date of June 15; the next project using one cent sales tax revenues will be replacement of the roof; Garret Allen will be helping with maintenance this summer; and the school year continues to go well due to a great effort by staff and students.
The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. and Larmon Scholarship winners were then selected.
(Carla Olson, Board Secretary)
STANTON SCHOOL APPROVES BUDGET PUBLICATION
On Monday, March 9, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session. President Bruning called the session to order with Directors Magneson, Vanderholm and Lindgren present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, and secretary Olson.
Principal McClain reported: Training for Iowa Core Curriculum is moving forward, with teachers updated at a February 13 inservice; a SEEDS inservice will be held March 11; a formative assessment workshop was attended by four teachers and Principal McClain; the district delivery special education plan and also the ELL plan are being finalized and will be presented for board approval in April; area school representatives have been meeting to formulate a plan for regional CTE academies that would provide vocational centers for senior students; a meeting will be held Thursday with Red Oak School to work on combining Four Year Old Preschool Grant applications and finalize that for submission prior to March 30; on February 18 a representative from Pearson Education held a training for elementary teachers on the new math curriculum texts and workbooks; conference and district speech events have been held and state speech contest is Saturday, March 14; students celebrated Read Across America with events on March 2 and 4; Iowa Test of Basic Skills has been completed for elementary and junior students; an Accelerated Reader party will potentially be held March 26; and the all school play will be presented March 27.
Superintendent Ashley reported local school superintendents have been meeting to discuss possible sharing arrangements for the supervisory positions of superintendent, business manager, transportation manager, human resources manager, or facility operation and maintenance management. Supplementary funding is available to districts that can meet state requirements and also report cost savings from sharing these positions. Stanton School administration is open to conversations with other districts for potential sharing of these positions.
Superintendent Ashley noted the district cost for the 2008 driver education class was $227 per student and those students paid $205 each. Upon Superintendent Ashley’s recommendation, the 2009 drivers education fee was set at $230 per Stanton student and $300 for out of district students, should there be room for them. Roxanne Lamb was hired as the 2009 drivers education instructor at $180 per student.
An open enrollment application from parents John and Christiana Meier for their kindergarten son Ty Jackson Meier, from Villisca to Stanton starting in 2009-2010, was approved.
Superintendent Ashley noted Dennis McClain is completing his second year as K-12 Principal and his current salary is well below the Corner Conference average. The K-12 Principal salary was increased by $3,500, which would make the annual salary for Principal McClain $56,500.
The Board recommended the following people to serve on the Falk Scholarship Committee to select 2008-2009 winners: board member Paul Vanderholm, teacher Bruce Subbert, and community member Jim Bates.
Following review and discussion, an amendment to the current 2008-2009 budget was approved for publication. The amendment increases the Instruction function from $1,762,100 to $1,820,000 to allow for expenditure of additional Teacher Quality monies; and increases the Noninstructional Programs function from $111,500 to $114,000 due to increased costs. This change in estimates of expenditures will be financed from increased receipts and balances not budgeted or considered in the current budget and there will be no increase in taxes to be paid in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2009. A hearing on the proposed 2008-2009 budget amendment will be held during the regular Board meeting on April 13, 2009.
Superintendent Ashley and Secretary Olson presented the proposed budget estimate for 2009-2010, which is on a GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) basis, meaning the July and August income and expenses for all funds are included in the June 30 ending fund balances. The proposed estimated fiscal budget totals $3,118,400 for all funds and includes a 10% Instructional Support Levy, a 40% Budget Guarantee of $28,285; maximum allowed Cash Reserve Levy of $104,931, and total tax levy per thousand of $12.92236, compared to $12.51306 the prior year. Publication of the proposed 2009-2010 budget estimate received approval. The hearing for the proposed 2009-2010 budget was set for 7:15 p.m. on Monday, April 13th, prior to the regular Board meeting.
Superintendent Ashley noted Jennifer Burke has been teaching one period of sixth grade class since 2003 while Jane Hansen teaches 8th grade language arts. Due to declining revenues and student enrollment, his recommendation is to terminate the .28125 FTE teaching contract held by Jennifer Burke effective at the end of the 2008-2009 school year, retaining her services as a full-time paraprofessional for the district. The 8th grade language arts class would then be taught by Vicki Engstrand, with Jane Hansen teaching full time in the sixth grade classroom. Approval was given to terminate the .28125 FTE teaching contract held by Jennifer Burke effective at the end of the 2008-2009 school year due to declining enrollment and revenue, with thanks expressed for her willingness to help by filling a teaching need for our district.
A resignation by Kevin Cabbage from his position as assistant baseball coach and also a resignation by Shane Stephens from his head baseball coaching contract were both approved. Kevin Cabbage was then hired as head baseball coach for summer 2009; Shane Stephens was hired as head softball coach for summer 2009; and Jody Druivenga was hired as assistant varsity volleyball coach for fall 2009.
Renwick Adams, who has taught math for three years at Stanton, submitted a resignation from that position effective at the end of the 2008-2009 school year, and that was approved with best wishes and thanks for a job well done.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 62.33% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 59.81% a year ago; advertisements have been placed in local newspapers for the 7-12 math instructor and board secretary/business manager positions; on March 11 Camblin Plumbing and Heating will begin the installation of air conditioning in the 7-12 facility; through the recent stimulus legislation Stanton School will potentially receive one-time federal funding that may only be used for Title I ($27,000) and special education ($63,000); funding losses factored into the 2009-2010 budget are the allowable growth of 4% that will only be funded at 2% (-$36,000), across the board 1.5% cut (-$15,000), and Budget Guarantee Rollback at 40% instead of 100% (-$22,000); application has been made for a Harkin Grant of $19,499 for the 7-12 facility air conditioning project, with award notification by March 13; there will be no school March 11 for a teacher inservice, early dismissal March 19, spring break (no school) March 20, and no school April 10; school will be in session May 29 and June 1 for make up for one day missed due to state football playoffs and one day due to inclement weather; the boys and girls basketball teams had good seasons, with band, vocal, speech and art students also excelling. It has been an excellent school year thus far.
Director Magneson reported on the recent legislative coffee he attended to hear from state legislators Cecil Dolechek and Kim Reynolds.
The meeting adjourned at 9:20 p.m.
Carla Olson, Board Secretary
(News Story)--February 9, 2009
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES TEACHER SALARIES
On Monday, February 9, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session.
Principal McClain reported: An Iowa Core Curriculum meeting will be held February 13; at the SEEDS inservice January 26 the high school teachers emphasized read-alouds and the elementary teachers problem-based instructional tasks; an assessment workshop will be held Thursday in Creston, with four teachers attending, and a publishers potpourri to obtain books for the school libraries will also be available that day; the special education District Delivery Plan is currently being updated and an ELL plan is also being created; a regional CTE Academy to provide career and technical course work is being discussed for southwest Iowa to help reduce costs and increase opportunities for students; the elementary recently held an Accelerated Reader bingo party for those reaching their reading goals; four groups participated in state speech contest; an elementary math inservice will be held February 18 after school; and Corner Conference speech contest will be held February 24.
The Board reviewed and approved a proposal by the Stanton Education Association for a 2009-2010 Teacher Master Contract that includes a total package increase of $41,937 or 3.7% for this second year of a two year contract. The proposal increases the base to $26,275 for an increase of $23,315 in certificated salaries (an average of 2.96); increases supplemental salaries $1,717 or 3%; the insurance/annuity increase was $13,476 or 7.74%.
The 2009-2010 salary for Athletic Director Don Hicks was increased by 2%, which would put the total amount at $4,895.
In order to meet Social Security income restrictions in 2009-2010, a request by junior-senior high school teacher Don Hicks for release from two of the three classes he currently teaches was approved with thanks for his years of service to the district.
Due to ongoing and increasing budget constraints, Board approval was given to a Budget Guarantee Resolution for 2009-2010 that will provide for revenue of approximately $28,285.
The following 2008-2009 open enrollment requests from the Griswold School District to Stanton were approved: ninth grader Jeffrey Clark; eleventh grader Lucas Oster; eighth graders Emily Oster and Ellen Oster.
Superintendent Ashley and Principal McClain reported the potential benefits of jointly applying with Red Oak School for the state four-year-old preschool grant would include a better chance of approval and also better meet the needs of our four year old population. Each school would have their own preschool program and Red Oak School would be the fiscal agent for an approved grant. It was the consensus of the Board to move ahead with a joint application for the state preschool grant.
Superintendent Ashley outlined the sharing dollars that are available from the State of Iowa for schools that meet specific legislative requirements. The supervisory positions of superintendent, board secretary/business manager, maintenance director, transportation director, and human relations director come under this law, with the window of opportunity for these sharing incentive dollars closing 2012-2013. He noted the sharing districts must be contiguous and the incentive dollars are based on enrollment, with minimum funding based on 10 students and maximum on 40 students. Each district must be able to show a cost savings from sharing the position and the funding for this program is reduced by 20% per year. It was the consensus of the Board to pursue discussions on operational sharing incentive possibilities.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 54.05% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 52.42% a year ago; there is no school on February 13 for a teacher inservice or on February 16 for Presidents Day; the third quarter ends February 19; a big thank you to all those parents, staff, students, Stanton Chamber and Care Center, and KCSI who contributed to the recent FCCLA bake sale and Vikes for Life fund raiser for the Joel Herzberg family to make it such a success, with donations exceeding $4,000; the winter band concert will be held February 26 at 7:00 p.m.; Miss Tackett will travel with 16 vocal students to sing the national anthem in Des Moines at a state playoff game; and the school year continues to be busy and go well, with positive things happening for kids.
The meeting adjourned at 9:22 p.m.
Carla Olson, Board Secretary)
(News Story)--January 12, 2009
STANTON SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES CLASSIFIED STAFF WAGES
On Monday, January 12, 2009, the Stanton School District Board of Directors met at 7:30 p.m. in the high school board room for a regular session. President Bruning called the session to order with Directors Lindgren, Vanderholm and Magneson present. Also present were Superintendent Ashley, Principal McClain, Secretary Olson, Sherry Vogel and Celia Bruning.
Principal McClain reported: The next SEEDS inservice will be held January 26 with the high school staff focusing on read-alouds and use of the technology in the classroom and elementary focusing on math MDPs and PBITs; the plans for the Viking Center proposed by the Stanton Friends has been adjusted to approximately 36,000 square feet and applications are being made for grants to help with the funding of construction; fall coaching evaluations are completed and teacher evaluations are ongoing; the Christmas concert was outstanding; the Corner Conference basketball tournament is scheduled for next week; end of the first semester was January 13; and the next Prekindergarten Grant meeting will be held February 2, 2009.
Family and Consumer Science instructor Sherry Vogel presented an informative summary of the classes she teaches, which provide students with “21st century skills” enabling them to be successful in life.
A letter of resignation/retirement from Board Secretary Carla Olson was approved with thanks and best wishes. Olson has held this position since July 1990 and her retirement request is effective December 31, 2009.
Upon recommendation by Superintendent Ashley, approval was given for a 2% increase for all classified staff for 2009-2010, and a 7% increase for the Board Secretary in recognition of her 19 years of service to the district and to keep that salary comparable to other Corner Conference board secretaries.
A proposed trip to Spain by the Spanish Class, to be held March 12-20, 2009, and include the teacher plus nine additional individuals (students and parents) was approved. Superintendent Ashley noted each participant has his/her own individual insurance via the Explorica company, with a certificate of insurance coverage also on file at the school and all permits, forms and waivers have been signed
Board approval was given to the following new or revised board policies: Employee Travel Compensation; Credit Cards; Drug and Alcohol Testing Program; Licensed Employee Tax Shelter Programs; Classified Employee Tax Shelter Programs; Corporal Punishment; Student Records Access; Administration of Medication to Students; Student Special Health Services; Special Education.
An open enrollment application from Amy and Jeffrey Sallach for their kindergarten student Cameron Sallach, starting in 2009-2010 from the Red Oak School District to Stanton Schools was approved.
Superintendent Ashley reviewed the across-the-board reductions in all state and general fund appropriations for the current fiscal year, which will total approximately $15,755 for Stanton School, with $13,322 in state foundation aid cut, $116 in Instructional Support Levy and $2,317 in categorical funding.
Superintendent Ashley reported: 45.95% of budgeted Operating Fund monies have been expended to date compared to 44.56% a year ago at this time; advertisements are being run in local newspapers for the Stanton coaching positions for head varsity softball (2009), assistant varsity volleyball (2009) and head varsity baseball (2010); the high school staff and student restrooms have been updated; at this point the two days needing to be made up will potentially be added to the end of the school year; notification on the school’s application for a Harkin Grant should be received by March 15; Camblin Plumbing and Heating plans beginning work on the 7-12 air conditioning by the first part of March; thanks to Jeff Grebin, Jamie McDaniel, Casey Elwood, and Farmers Mutual Telephone, the school website (www.stantonschools.com) can now stream live coverage of athletic games and activities; budget reduction options will have to be considered in the near future; there will be no school on Monday, January 26, for a SEEDS teacher inservice, and no school on February 13 for K-12 teachers to work on new state mandates regarding the Iowa Core Curriculum; the school year continues to go well with students and staff working hard and many successes in activities and athletics.
The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.
(Carla Olson, Board Secretary)