SPECIAL SESSION

                                                                               OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                            COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on July 6, 2020 for a Special  Meeting at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent: Ron Houghton and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present. Houghton joined the meeting at 5:01 p.m.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - Dixie Forcht thanked everyone involved in graduation for their help in making it a success.

Elementary Principal Brad Schweppe discussed plans for a Small-Group Summer School in August. 

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Chelsea Ahrens - High School Assistant Activities Director, Joe Miller - High School Health

Resignations - Leah Fonua - MS Guidance

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the building handbooks for the 2020-2021 school year.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the change to the school calendar for the 2020-2021 school year with the end of Quarter 2 on December 18th and the end of Quarter 4 on May 28th.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the K-8 Science Curriculum and CAERT All Access licensure for a total of $62,541.94.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve Invision Architects to complete hourly work as they explore options for a Middle School at the current Juvenile Home location with a cost not to exceed $10,000.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the Base Bid - Asphalt Tennis Court Overlay of $426,912.50 and Alternate 1 - Additional Site Work of $164,832.50 and Alternate 3 - Additional 48'' Fence Between Adjoining Courts of $23,280.00 and set the Public Hearing date for August 17, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the purchase of a Mohawk Lift for $16,494.00.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the Summer Strength & Conditioning Plan as recommended by the Activities Department.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the Suicide Practice and Procedures Handbook.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the Middle School Project and Return to Learn.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:30 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                      REGULAR SESSION

                                      OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                         COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on July 20, 2020 in Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent Ron Houghton and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.  Houghton joined the meeting at 5:11 p.m. and Werner at 5:15 p.m.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the June 15, 2020 and July 6, 2020 meetings, financials and bills for payment as presented.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to appoint Mary Boege as Board Secretary/Treasurer for the 2020-2021 school year.  All Ayes.

President Tyynismaa administered the Oath of Office to Secretary/Treasurer Mary Boege.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the following personnel requests as presented pending background check results on new hires.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Dave Nitz - 9th Grade Boys Basketball, Crystal Hass - Assistant Individual Speech Coach, Cory Lang - Assistant 8th Football Coach, Morgan McFate - HS Basketball Cheer Coach, Joe Miller - Head 7th Boys Basketball. Jessica Poush - Superintendent's Secretary.

Transfers - David Cantonwine - From Part-Time Route Driver to Full Time Route Driver, Crystal Hass - From 8th Grade Literacy to MS Counselor.

Resignations - Ron Lowe - Bus Driver, Crystal Hass - 8th Grade Literacy, Connie Cooper - Superintendent's Secretary.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the depositories at The State Bank of Toledo and Lincoln Savings Bank, with upper limits of $15,000,000 each..   All Ayes.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the Tama-Toledo News Chronicle as the official publication.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the bid from K&M Garbage Service for the 2020-2021 school year.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the options that are being looked into for the Middle School.

Brad Schweppe updated the Board on what Summer School will look like in August.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the Return to Learn Plan.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 7:13 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

Click on the meeting date from the list below to view minutes.  Coming soon for FY 2021 meetings.

 

 

                                                         SPECIAL SESSION

                                           OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                              COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on July 23, 2020 for a Special  Meeting at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 9:00 a.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner. Absent: Ron Houghton.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - Allison Graham congratulated the Baseball Team on a good season and expressed her concerns for the safety of students and staff as plans are made to return to school.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to proceed with AA/BB Alternate A or B on Wednesdays model for the Return to Learn Plan for the 2020-2021 school year.  Motion carried with aye votes from Kline, Werner and Tyynismaa and 1 nay vote from Lekin.

Discussion was held on the requirements of face coverings and the possibility of hiring a COVID Tracker.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 10:37 a.m.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                        SPECIAL SESSION

                                       OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                           COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 3, 2020 for a Special  Meeting at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present: Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda adding two resignations to Personnel .  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - John Kohagen - 8th Grade Literacy

Resignations - Brenda Young - SpEd Aide, Max Kellogg - Bus Driver

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to accept the 3 year milk bid from Anderson Erickson Dairy.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to accept the bread bid from Pan-O-Gold.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve a COVID Tracker position that will be reviewed at the end of the 1st quarter to determine if the need for the position is still there.   All Ayes.

Activities Director Anthony Jahr updated the Board on what Fall Athletics and Activities will look like at the start of the school year.

Superintendent Smith and the Building Principals updated the Board on the Return to Learn Plan.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 7:03 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                             REGULAR SESSION

                                          OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                           COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 24, 2020 in Regular Session at the High School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the July 20, 2020, July 23, 2020 and August 3, 2020 meetings, financials and bills for payment as presented.

Public Comments - Kathy Wilkerson and members of the STCEA thanked the Board for all that they are doing to get students and staff back to school safely.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following personnel requests as presented pending background check results on new hires.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Courtney Welton - SpEd Para

Volunteer Coaching - Josh Bly - MS/HS Football, Jay Hoskey - MS/HS Football, Morgan McFate - HS FB Cheerleading

Transfers - Angelica Gomez - Elementary SpEd Para to Elementary ELL Para

Officials - Tiffany Thiessen - Volleyball, Glen Taylor - Volleyball, Eugene Ubben - Volleyball, Deidra Mohr - Volleyball

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the 2020-2021 School Calendar with the changes noted  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline second by Houghton to set the Public Hearing for the Tennis Court improvements on September 8, 2020 at 5:00 p.m.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the Middle School Staff Handbook.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the COVID Pandemic Policies, Return to Learn and school locations and start times.

Activities Directors Jahr and Bolen updated the Board on how home events and transportation will be handled this fall.

The board meetings in September will be held September 8th and 23rd.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 7:21 p.m.

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                    PUBLIC HEARING AND SPECIAL SESSION

                                                     OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                          COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on September 8, 2020 for a Public Hearing on the Proposed Use of SAVE Revenue for an Athletic Facility Infrastructure Project at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Absent:  Alan Kline.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Houghton second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing

President Tyynismaa opened the Public Hearing for the proposed use of SAVE Revenue for an Athletic Facility Infrastructure Project at 5:00 p.m. and asked for public comments. 

Deb Backen voiced concerns that the SAVE Funds would be better used for the Middle School or Partnership Center instead of the tennis courts at this time.

President Tyynismaa asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to close the Public Hearing at 5:03 p.m.  All Ayes.

The Special Session was called to order at 5:04 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Absent:  Alan Kline  Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith and  Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Tiffany Bridgewater - Assistant 8th Grade Volleyball Coach, Lon Wilkerson - Assistant 7th Grade Volleyball Coach

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to adopt the Resolution Supporting The Proposed Use of SAVE Revenue For an Athletic Facility Infrastructure Project.  All Ayes

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the Street Smarts Contract for Driver's Education as presented for the 2021 to 2023 school years.  All Ayes.

Brad Beck from Beck Engineering presented the three bids that were received for the Tennis Court Project.  Midwest Tennis and Track - $571,590.64, Minturn - $624,863.00 and Vieth Construction - $573,362.00.  The Board will act on the bids at the September 23, 2020 board meeting.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the COVID-19 Supplemental Policy Provisions as updated  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith presented the IASB Legislative Priorities for the Board to review.  It will be brought back to the next meeting. 

The Board was updated on the Return to Learn plan and how the first day of school went by the building principals and directors. 

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 6:08 p.m.

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                                            REGULAR SESSION

                                                                          OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                             COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on September 23, 2020 in Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Absent:  Mandy Lekin.  Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Houghton second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the August 24, 2020, and September 8, 2020 meetings, financials, bills for payment as presented and Early Graduation requests of M.H, A.S, G.S., and E.B-C.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the following personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Officials - David Nitz - Football, Kory Staff - Football, Seth Koch - Football, Tom Kemper - Football, Jeremy Weiermann - Football, Daniel Johnson - Football

Resignations - Barry Papesh - Bus Driver, Jerry Bisher - Strength/Conditioning Coach.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve Ahlers and Cooney as the district's legal counsel.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton second by Werner to name the following Level I Investigators - Brad Schweppe, Kris Collins, Melanie Kemper, Anita Townsley, Ben Adams, Scott Bolen, Crystal Hass, Blake Wedeking, Mark Groteluschen, Anthony Jahr, Dan Lopez, Dina Keahna, Shauna Smith, Jared Smith - Alternate.  Ahlers & Cooney Law Firm as Level II.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to accept the bid from Midwest Tennis & Track of $571,590.64 to replace the tennis courts.   Aye votes from Houghton, Kline and Tyynismaa.  Nay vote from Werner.  Motion carried.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to table the Legislative Priorities until the next board meeting.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the 2020-2021 Classified Handbook.  All Ayes

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the 2020-2021 Certified Handbook.  All Ayes  

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the COVID Tracker position.

All Building Administrators and Directors gave an update to the Board on how the school year is going.

School Nurses updated the Board on procedures being used in the buildings.

Superintendent Smith informed the Board that students will be given the option of changing from virtual or hybrid for 2nd quarter the week of October 12th to the 16th and that 6-8 grades might be virtual a little longer as repairs for the Partnership Center are taking longer than originally planned.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to adjourn the meeting at 6:49 p.m.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary     

                                                                                     SPECIAL SESSION

                                                                    OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                      COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on October 5, 2020 for a Special  Meeting at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present: Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Volunteer Coaches - Jason Arp and Travis Smith - Wrestling

Officials - Deidra Mohr - Basketball, Eugene Ubben - Basketball, Thad Espenscheid - Basketball

Resignations - Carina Chavarria - Elem/HS Education Aide

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the additional middle school coaching positions as requested  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the fundraising requests as presented contingent upon health and safety issues at those times. All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to approve the list of overnight trips as presented contingent upon health and safety issues at those times.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the application to the SBRC for modified allowable growth and  supplemental aid for LEP allowable costs of $196,139.59.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to have English Learners, Dropout/At-Risk and Mental Health as the top legislative priorities for the 2021 legislative session.  All Ayes.

Motion by Werner, second by Houghton to approve the purchase of the Tyler Drive Student Tracking system for $63,130.00.  All Ayes. 

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the Middle School Building Storm Damage and what action should be taken.  He reviewed the Middle School Students Return Timelines, the new State Quarantine Recommendations and shared the Organizational Chart.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:43 p.m.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary     

                                                                             REGULAR SESSION

                                                             OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                  COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on October 19, 2020 in Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.   Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the September 23, 2020, and October 5, 2020 meetings, financials, bills for payment as presented and Early Graduation requests of L.A., and U.M.

Public Comments - None

Student Council President Morgan Haughey and Vice President Sydney Parizek updated the Board on activities that the Student Council will be doing this year.  Student Council members will present to the Board throughout the year.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the following personnel requests as presented pending documentation of proper certifications,  All Ayes.

Contracts - Delonda Pushetonequa - COVID Tracker, Tiffany Bridgewater - Additional Assistant 8th Grade Basketball

Transfers - Courtney Welton - from TICU Para to HS Para

Officials - Jeremy Weiermann - Basketball, Kory Staff - Basketball, James Hall - Basketball, David Nitz - Basketball, John Bartello - Wrestling, Brandon Dufoe - Wrestling, Patrick Kopsa - Wrestling, Bryan Foster - Wrestling, David Lee - Track and XC, William Neal - Track, Dennis Dirks - Volleyball, Donald Anderson - Volleyball, Dan Rhine - Volleyball, Deidra Mohr - Volleyball, Tiffany Thiessen - Volleyball

Resignations - Brittani West - HS Para

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to approve the additional High School Girls Basketball coaching position for the 2020-2021 season..  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline second by Werner to authorize the Board President and Superintendent to issue and approve Special Education Contracts and Open Enrollment Applications.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to deny an Open Enrollment request for the 20-21 school year.  All Ayes.

The Early Retirement incentive was discussed and will be brought back to the next meeting for approval.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the Middle School survey and discussion was held on what the next steps should be.

The 2nd Quarter Timeline for students was shared showing when students would return and when Parent-Teacher Conference will be held.

Superintendent Smith shared the District's Certified Enrollment.  The number of students served by the District is down by five.

Activity Directors Jahr and Bolen updated the Board on Winter Activities and who would be able to rent the gym facilities.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 6:58 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                                                  SPECIAL SESSION

                                                                                   OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                                      COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on November 2, 2020 for a Special  Meeting at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present: Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent: Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Officials - Charles Liston - Volleyball, Dan Rhine - Volleyball, Gregory Davis - Volleyball, Donald Anderson - Volleyball, Deidra Mohr - Volleyball, David Mohr - Basketball and Volleyball, Tom Kemper - Basketball, Jeremy Weiermann - Basketball, Randy Dougherty - Basketball

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to table the Early Retirement Incentive Policy until the policy can be reviewed to include a release of claims statement.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the Impact Aid Indian Policies and Procedures as presented for the 2021-2022 school year.   All Ayes.

Mary Mixdorf, District Technology Director, updated the Board on the technology use in the first quarter.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the Partnership Center updates, Middle School students returning after Thanksgiving break, the number of students moving from virtual to hybrid learning at the start of 2nd quarter and the Return to Learn flowchart.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to go into closed session at 5:40 p.m. as provided in Section 21.5(1)(c) of the Open Meetings Law to discuss strategy with counsel in matters where litigation is possible.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to come out of closed and return to open session at 6:28 p.m.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith reviewed the Seat Belt Policy with the Board as we prepare to use the new buses with seat belts installed.

Alan Kline will represent the Board at the Delegate Assembly on November 17th.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:29 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                          ANNUAL MEETING AND REGULAR SESSION

                                                             OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                               COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on November 16, 2020 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. with members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent: Clint Werner.  Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the October 19, 2020, and November 2, 2020 meetings, financials, bills for payment as presented and Early Graduation requests of A.O.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to have Penny Tyynismaa and Mandy Lekin continue as Board President and Board Vice President.  All Ayes.

Oath of Office was administered to President Tyynismaa and Vice President Lekin.

Public Comments - Dixie Forcht thanked the Board and Administration for taking the safety of the staff and students into consideration and going to virtual learning at this time.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the revised changes to Policy 401.07 R1 Early Retirement Incentive.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline second by Houghton to approve the Early Retirement Incentive in the amount of $7800 a year for 5 years .  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the renewal contract with Premier for printers and copier.  All Ayes

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the application to the School Budget Review Committee in the amount of $1,918 for special education administrative cost associated with River Hills consortium program for the 2021-22 school year.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the School Budget Review Committee application request for modified supplemental amount of $97,008 for open enrollment out students on the Fall of 2020 enrollment but not on the Fall 2019 enrollment.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin second by Houghton to approve the School Budget Review Committee application request for modified supplemental amount of $114,741.44 for ELL students beyond the 5 years.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith reviewed with the Board the Virtual Learning schedules in all three buildings and COVID updates.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:04 p.m.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                            SPECIAL SESSION

                                           OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                              COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on December 7, 2020 for a Special  Meeting at the Administration Building, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present: Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent: Ron Houghton, Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.  Houghton joined the meeting at 5:05 p.m.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Each Building Administrator updated the Board on how things are going in their buildings and discussion was held on when a decision for 2nd semester would be made as to what instruction would look like.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the Archery fundraising request for a can redemption drive.   All Ayes.

Shauna Smith updated the Board on the Trauma Informed Care Unit and how we are serving our students. 

Shauna Smith and Superintendent Smith discussed the Mental Health Therapists program that we currently have with Tanager Place and how it is serving our students.

The results of the 1st Semester Culture and Climate survey was shared with the Board. 

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                 REGULAR SESSION

                                                   OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                   COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on December 21, 2020 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. with members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Absent: Mandy Lekin.  Quorum Present.  Lekin joined the meeting at 6:19 p.m.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Houghton second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the November 16, 2020, and December 7, 2020 meetings, financials, bills for payment as presented and Early Graduation requests of A.B..

Public Comments - None

Morgan Haughey, Student Council President, updated the Board on what the Student Council has been involved in.

Mike Carnahan, Chris McFate and Teresa Smith were present to review the new curriculum program, Music First.

Each Building Administrator reviewed with the Board on how they will handle classroom space and lunches if students return to 100 percent instruction second semester.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the personnel requests as presented pending background checks and licensure for new hires.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Estrella Castellanos Angel - 7-12 TICU Para, Matthew Beatty - Asst 7th Boys Basketball.

Volunteer Coaches - Lindsay Hassman - Speech, Rachel Davis - Speech

Officials - David Nitz - Basketball, James Hall - Basketball, Jeremy Weiermann - Basketball.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the School Budget Review Committee application request for modified supplemental amount of $155,969 for the At-Risk and Drop Out prevention program.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith discussed the use of the stop signs on Highway 63 for student crossings.  Additional options will researched.

Motion by Kline second by Houghton to go into closed session at 6:33 pm as provided in Section 21.5(1)(j) of the Open Meetings Law to discuss the sale of a particular piece of real estate.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to come out of closed session at 6:50 p.m.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:52 p.m.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                 SPECIAL SESSION

                                                OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                  COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on January 4, 2021 for a Special  Meeting at the Administration Building, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present: Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa  and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.  

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Houghton to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to accept the Early Retirement requests of  Shelly Riley - Title I Teacher, Jeff DeBondt - MS Physical Ed Teacher, Elaine Gibson - Elementary ELL Teacher, Linda Aziz - MS Special Ed Teacher, Christine Quigley - HS FCS Teacher, Nancy Dostal - HS English/Language Arts Teacher and Mary Boege - Business Manager.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to return to a 100% in person learning model for second semester with a 2:15 p.m. dismissal for all students with the exception of the preschool which will stay Hybrid.. Motion carried with 4 aye votes from Houghton, Kline, Lekin and Tyynismaa and one nay vote from Werner.   

Activity Directors Jahr and Bolen discussed the current status of gym rentals.  They would like to be able to have youth sports be able to practice  but have not have competitions at this time.  It will be brought back to the Board at the next meeting for review.
 

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:39 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                            REGULAR SESSION

                                             OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                            COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on January 18, 2021 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. with members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Houghton to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the December 21, 2020, and January 4, 2021 meetings, financials and bills for payment as presented.

Public Comments - None

Jennifer Anderson and Amy Stotts presented to the board on the Lexia Power Up and Lexia Core 5 programs that are being used with students.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Volunteer Coaches - Bailey Chyma - Wrestling

Resignations - Elizabeth Hahle - 5-8 ESL Teacher

Motion by Lekin second by Houghton to approve the cookie dough fundraiser of the HS Softball Team.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the gym rental proposal of renting the gym for youth sports practices with some competitions starting February 1, 2021.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the resolution to publish a notice setting a public hearing on the conveyance of property located at 806 State Street for February 1, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. at the Partnership Center.  All Ayes.

The Board discussed returning to in-person board meetings.  The next meeting on February 1, 2021 will be held at the Partnership Center with the option of viewing it virtually.

The COVID Travel Policy was discussed.  More information will be brought back to the next meeting. 

Plans for 100% Return to Learn was discussed.  An additional section of Kindergarten will be added.  Employee sick leave balances were discussed with no changes made with the COVID leave. 

Motion by Kline second by Werner to go into closed session at 6:10 pm as provided in Section 21.5(1)(c) of the Open Meetings Law to discuss current litigation with Counsel.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to come out of closed session at 6:34 p.m.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                    PUBLIC HEARING AND SPECIAL SESSION

                                                                     OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                        COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on February 1, 2021 for a Public Hearing on the conveyance of school owned property at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Allison Graham, Marilyn Rippy and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing

President Tyynismaa opened the Public Hearing for the conveyance of school own property located at 806 State Street, Tama, IA at 5:01 p.m. and asked for public comments. 

Audra Donnelly expressed her concerns about selling the property.

President Tyynismaa asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to close the Public Hearing at 5:08 p.m.  All Ayes.

The Special Session was called to order at 5:09 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Allison Graham, Marilyn Rippy and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Nan Aldrich - Food Service, Marie Mann - HS SpEd Aide.

Resignations - Lon Wilkerson - 7th and 8th Assistant Volleyball, Stephanie Panosh - Food Service

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to approve the updated COVID Travel Policy.  All Ayes

Motion by Werner, second by Lekin to approve the Resolution for a Conveyance of Real Property.  Motion carried with 4 aye votes from Houghton, Kline, Lekin and Werner and 1 nay vote from Tyynismaa.

Discussion was held on the location for in-person board meetings.  They will now be held in the Elementary Gym.

The Board was informed about a proposal to start a 7th and 8th grade girls wrestling club.  There will be a Special Meeting on Thursday, February 4, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. to approve the program.  

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 5:43 p.m.

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                                 SPECIAL SESSION

                                                                OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                                      COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on February 4, 2021 for a Special  Meeting at the Administration Building, Tama, Iowa at 8:04 a.m. with some members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present: Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin and Clint Werner.  Members Absent: Ron Houghton and Penny Tyynismaa.  Quorum Present.  

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and Ashley Raue.

Motion by Werner second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Werner, second by Kline to approve the 7th and 8th Grade Girls Wrestling Club.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 8:07 a.m.

 

Mandy Lekin, Board Vice President                    Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

                                                                           REGULAR SESSION

                                                           OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

                                             COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on February 15, 2021 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. with members of the board and community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Absent:  Ronald Houghton.  Quorum Present.  Houghton joined the meeting at 5:05 p.m.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the January 18, 2021, February 1, 2021 and February 4, 2021 meetings, financials, bills for payment as presented and Early Graduation request of O.P.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Morgan Haughey, President of the Student Council gave the Board an update of the activities that are being planned.

Shauna Smith, Jon Huebner, Laurie Baack, Joy Schirmer, Kathy Wilkerson and Seth Koch presented how Pear Deck & Google Meet features are being used with virtual and in-person students.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Emily Chyma - Head HS Girls Track, Mariah Snyder - MS Special Education

Transfers - Betty Bonilla from 2nd Grade to Elementary ELL, Amy Stewart from 1st Grade to Elementary Title I

Resignations - Dan Mayo - HS Assistant Football, Jeri Ellenbecker - Concession Stand Manager

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve reopening the Early Retirement Incentive option from Tuesday, February 16th to Friday, February 26th.  All Ayes.

Steve McAdoo informed the Board that he is checking into the price of a few options for stop signs or lights at our two student crossing locations on High Way 63.  It will be brought back to the Board for further discussion.

Superintendent Smith reviewed with the Board the current COVID protocols.  The District is still requiring masks to be worn and the staff is currently getting their first vaccinations. 

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 5:51 p.m. into a Work Session with Travis Squires from Piper Sandler.
 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

 

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on March 1, 2021 for a Special Session at the STC Elementary, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Allison Graham, Marilyn Rippy, Vanessa Rivera, Sheri McFate and Jacob Molitor and several community members attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Vanessa Rivera presented Partners in Education Plaques to the Toledo Public Library and the Meskwaki Nation Police Department.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Randy Denham - School Business Official/Director of Finance. Michelle Bradley - HS Math

Early Retirement - Michael Dostal - MS Custodian, Nancy Haines - Elem Cook

Resignations - Dot Kendall - Elem Para educator, Serena Lowe - Asst MS Softball, Samantha Cantonwine - Asst HS Softball, Jeff DeBondt - 7th Grade Football and 7th Boys Track

Officials - Andrew May - Wrestling, Brandon Dufoe - Wrestling

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the 2.31% total package increase for the Classified Staff and Administrators for the 2021-2022 school year.  All Ayes

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the start dates for the staff of August 17, 2021  and students of August 23, 2021 for the 2021-2022 school year.  All Ayes.

Discussion was held on the date for the first board meeting in April.  It will be on Monday, April 5, 2021.

The Superintendent's evaluation will be held after the board meeting on March 15, 2021.

The 2021-2022 school calendar was reviewed and will be brought back for approval at a later meeting.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 5:36 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

 

                                                 REGULAR SESSION 
                                   OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE
                   COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on March 15, 2021 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ronald Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present. 
Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Randy Denham, Marilyn Rippy, Allison Graham and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Houghton to approve the amended agenda, adding to the Personnel Requests.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the February 15, 2021 and March 1, 2021 meetings, financials and bills for payment as presented.   All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Regina Gill - MS ELL, Jaimie Gargas - HS English
Transfers - Kelli Smith from 5th grade to 2nd grade
Resignations - Jennifer Perez - MS/HS Family & Community Liaison, Chris  Drummer - Sign Language Interpreter, Lindsey Hassman - Kindergarten, Baron Davis - HS Asst Wrestling, Justin Suchanek - MS Asst Wrestling
Officials - David Lee - Track, Jordan Bleil - Wrestling, Bob Yilek - Wrestling 

Motion by Kline second by Werner to approve setting a Public Hearing for the 2021-2022 School Calendar on April 5, 2021 at 5:10 p.m.  All Ayes. 

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to publish the FY22 Budget Estimate and to set a Public Hearing regarding the FY22 Budget on April 5, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.  

Motion by Kline, second by Werner to go into closed session at 5:25 p.m. as provided in Section 21.5(1) (i) of the Open Meeting Law to evaluate the processional competency of an individual whose performance is being considered to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual's reputation, as that individual has requested a closed session.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to return to Open Session at 6:56 p.m.  All Ayes.

Motion by Werner, second by Kline to extend Superintendent Jared Smith's contract through the 2023-2024 school year.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to adjourn the meeting at 6:59 p.m.  All Ayes

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                       Mary Boege, Board Secretary     
 

 

PUBLIC HEARING AND SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on April 5, 2021 for a Public Hearing on the 2021-2022 School Budget and the 2021-2022 School Calendar at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner. Absent:  Alan Kline Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Houghton second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing - 2021-2022 Budget

President Tyynismaa opened the Public Hearing for the 2021-2022 School Year Budget at 5:01 p.m. The published tax rate of $15.09 was explained and compared to last year.  President Tyynismaa then asked for public comments. 

Hearing none, President Tyynismaa asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to close the Public Hearing at 5:07 p.m.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing - 2021-2022 School Calendar

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner. Absent:  Alan Kline.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

President Tyynismaa opened the Public Hearing for the 2021-2022 School Calendar at 5:10 p.m.

Superintendent Smith explained the school calendar and changes made from previous years. President Tyynismaa then asked for any public comments,

Hearing none, President Tyynismaa asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing,

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to close the Public Hearing at 5:16 p.m.

The Special Session was called to order at 5:17 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Members Absent - Alan Kline.  Quorum Present. 

Also present were: Jared Smith and  Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - Nikki Pansegrau addressed the board with concerns about the spectator limits at indoor events.

Ashley Steven presented to the Board how IXL is being used with students.

Madison Poage presented how Write to Learn was being used in her writing classes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Debora Kern - Elementary Cook, Nicole Krafka - HS Aide, Bailey Chyma - 5th Grade and Asst MS Baseball, Makayla Backen - Asst MS Softball, Kodi Hillman - MS PE.

Transfers - Donnie Gitautis from HS Custodian to MS Custodian

Non-Renewal COVID Contracts - Tiffany Bridgewater Asst MS Girls Basketball and Volleyball, Matthew Beatty - Asst MS Boys Basketball

Resignations - Stacie Holmes - HS/MS SpEd Teacher, Jessica Bohnstengel - 5th Grade, John Kohagen - 8th Grade Literacy, Becky Thiessen - Elem Aide, Emily Chyma - HS Student Council Advisor.

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to adopt the Resolution Authoring the Redemption of General Obligation School Refunding Bonds, Series 2012 Dated May 1, 2012, and Levying a Tax for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 for the Redemption of General Obligations School Refunding Bonds, Series 2012, Dated May 1, 2012.  All Ayes

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the FY22 budget as published.  All Ayes.

Motion by Werner, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 School Calendar.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the AEA Purchasing Cooperative Program Agreement for 2021-2022.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton second by Werner to approve the addition of two teaching positions for the 2021-2022 school year using the ESSER Funds.   All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the Summer College Credit Program with Iowa Valley Community College District for the Summer of 2021.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the extension for Halverson Photography's school picture contract for one year.  All Ayes.

Steve McAdoo updated the Board on the Middle School repairs and possible plans for the Middle School Shelter House.

Middle School Principal Ben Adams updated the Board on the plans for the 5th-8th Grades for the 21-22 school year.

Superintendent Smith shared with the Board how the ESSER funds are being used and plans for the next round of money.

Activities Director Jahr informed the Board of the need to replace the dirt on the Baseball and Softball fields and lifting some spectator restrictions on inside sports.  It will now allow 4 spectators per athlete for inside sports.  The Spring outdoor sports will follow the same rules as last Fall.  

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to adjourn the meeting at 6:42 p.m. into a work session with Brad Leeper and Laura Peterson from Invision Architects and Ryan Ellsworth from Estes Construction.

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on April 19, 2021 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ronald Houghton, Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin and Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent:  Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Randy Denham, Marilyn Rippy, Allison Graham, Brad Schweppe, Lori Baier, Anthony Jahr and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the March 15, 2021 and April 5, 2021 meetings, financials and bills for payment as presented.   All Ayes.

Public Comments - Travis Mullen spoke about the Shelter House at the Middle School asking the Board to repair it instead of tearing it down.  He also asked about the playground equipment and basketball hoops at the Middle School.

Brad Schweppe presented Lori Baier from the Wieting Theatre a Partners in Education Plaque and thanked them for their support of the schools.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Officials - David Mohr - Volleyball, Deidra Mohr - Volleyball, James Hall - Baseball and Softball, Jordan Bly - Baseball, Ryne Kesl - Baseball, Jacob Collison - Baseball, Kyler Smith - Baseball, Glenn Taylor - Softball, Tiffany Thiessen - Softball, Kyle Clark - Soccer, Makayla Backen - Soccer, Henry Cladouhos - Soccer, Emily Phillips - Soccer

Transfers - Dustin Peska from Asst 7th Football to Head 7th Football, Sarah Klopping from 6th Grade Literacy Teacher to 8th Grade Literacy Teacher.

Contract - Jawanda Love - HS Custodian, Macy Kock - 1st Grade Teacher, Katelyn Gettle - Kindergarten Teacher, Bailey Chyma - HS Asst Wrestling.

Resignations - Susan Hallock - MS Aide, Joseph Miller - Head 7th Grade Boys Basketball Coach

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve the Senior Band/Choir trip to Chicago.   All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the purchase of the scoreboards for the high school gym, baseball and softball fields from Daktronics.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the additional High School Assistant Boys Golf position for the 2021 season.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve repairing the Shelter House at the Middle School.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the continued use of the Senior Year Plus Program with IVCCD.  All Ayes. 

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the painting bid from Iowa Wall Systems to paint the interior of the Middle School for $48,275.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the FY 20 Financial Audit.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith  updated the Board on our current COVID numbers and travel policy.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 5:59 p.m.  All Ayes

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

 

 

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on May 3, 2021 for a Special Session at the STC Elementary, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Alan Kline, Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent: Mandy Lekin and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.

Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Randy Denham, Chris Quigley, Laurie Baack, Shauna Smith and several community members attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Houghton second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Superintendent Smith presented each Board Member with a container of flowers from the High School Greenhouse for School Board Recognition Month. 

High School Special Education Teacher Amy Wade presented to the Board how Readtopia is used by students in her classroom.

Kristee McGrew reviewed with the Board how Really Great Reading is used in her First Grade Class.

High School Teacher Chris Quigley explained the Dave Ramsey program used to teach students about personal finances.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Joseph Miller - Assistant High School Boys Golf

Resignations - Calvin Todd Dale - High School Girls Basketball

Officials - Makayla Backen - Soccer, Tyler Strickler - Soccer, Kyle Clark - Soccer  

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve publishing the Budget Amendment for the 2020-21 school year and set the Public Hearing for May 17, 2021.  All Ayes

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the amendment to the Purchase Agreement for the Conveyance of School Owned Property as presented  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the bid from Black Top Services to repair the MS playground area for $22,140.00.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the bid from Kluesner for leveling the cracks in the Elementary South Parking Lot for $20,461.70.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the bid from Black Top Service to repair the Administration Building Parking Lot for $23,564.00.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve replacing the chairlift at the Middle School gym for $24,950.00.  All Ayes.

Discussion was held on possible dates for Board meetings in the months of June, July and August.  Meetings will be held on June 7, 2021, July 12, 2021, August 2, 2021 and August 16, 2021.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to adjourn the meeting at 6:02 p.m.

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                               Mary Boege, Board Secretary    

 

                                                                PUBLIC HEARING AND REGULAR SESSION 
                                                                  OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE
                                                     COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on May 17, 2021 for a Public Hearing on the 2020-2021 School Budget Amendment at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with some members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner. Absent:  Ronald Houghton and Alan Kline Quorum Present.
Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing - 2020-2021 Budget Amendment

President Tyynismaa opened the Public Hearing for the 2020-2021 School Year Budget  Amendment at 5:02 p.m.  President Tyynismaa then asked for public comments.  

Hearing none, President Tyynismaa asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to close the Public Hearing at 5:03 p.m.  All Ayes.

The Regular Session was called to order at 5:04 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Ron Houghton, Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa and Clint Werner.  Members Absent - Alan Kline.  Quorum Present.  
Also present were: Jared Smith and  Mary Boege and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes from the April 19, 2021 and May 3, 2021 meetings, financials, bills for payment as presented and early graduation requests of N.L., J.D., and M.K.  All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Resignations - Dina Keahna - Asst HS Girls Basketball, Debora Kern - Elem Food Service, Cheyenne Rucker - Elem Para.
Contracts - Allisyn Wellman - 6th Grade, Jerrod Bridgewater - Head 7th Boys Basketball, Dina Keahna - Head HS Girls Basketball. 
Jon Huebner - TLC Facilitator, Laurie Baack, Seth Koch, Joy Schirmer and Kathy Wilkerson -TLC Instructional Coaches
Lead Teachers Elementary - Maggie Jesina, Keely Upah, Mel Cole, Missy Jesina, Tasha Becker, Amy Parizek, Marilyn Rippy, Lon Wilkerson, Heather Garrett, Amy Wyatt.
Lead Teachers - Middle School - Ashley Raue, Ashley Steven, Paula Graves, Amy Stotts, George Kuhter, Jeanette Stacy, Stephanie Lane
Lead Teachers - High School - Dustin Peska, Robert Tyynismaa, Dan Mayo, Chelsea Ahrens, Ellen Moran, Dixie Forcht, Jeff Funk, Nate Doran, Victoria Hamilton, Dan Lopez

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the 2021-2022 Athletic Trainer contract as presented. All Ayes 
    
Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to approve hosting the Thespian Leadership day.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to amend the agenda to add approval of the budget amendment and a discussion item for mask mandates.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the Dance Team as an activity.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the baseball and softball sharing agreement with Meskwaki for the 20-21 school year.   All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin second by Houghton to approve the contract with iJag for the 21-22 school year.   All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to approve the purchase of a lawn mower from Z Line LTD for $14,242.00.   All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the Budget Amendment for FY21 as published.  All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith updated the Board on the ESSER Funding that the District received and purchases that are being made.  

Curriculum Director Shauna Smith updated the Board on the Math adoption being looked at for the 21-22 school year.

Activities Director Jahr informed the Board of the plans for the Summer concerning COVID Policies and the 21-22 WAMAC Ticket prices.

Superintendent Smith discussed the current COVID Mask Policy and keeping it in place until the end of the school year.  

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:27 p.m.  All Ayes.

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                       Mary Boege, Board Secretary     
 

                                                                                  REGULAR SESSION 
                                                                   OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE
                                                     COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on June 7, 2021 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Alan Kline, Mandy Lekin and Penny Tyynismaa.  Absent:  Ronald Houghton and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.   Houghton joined the meeting at 5:15 p.m.
Also present were: Jared Smith, Mary Boege, Randy Denham, Marilyn Rippy and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the amended agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the May 17, 202 meeting, financials and bills for payment as presented.   All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Superintendent Smith recognized the graduating seniors that are pursing education and promised them an interview when they have completed  their program. 

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts - Delonda Pushetonequa - HS SpEd, Emily Chyma - HS Student Council Advisor, Megan Brown  5th Grade, Naomi Chyma - Seasonal Summer Custodian, Bailey Chyma - Seasonal Summer Custodian, Jeff Niedermann - Asst 7th Football, Marsha Keahna - Asst HS Girls Basketball, Abby Swiatly - 1st Grade
Resignations - Laura Larsen - Elem SpEd, Cassie Sokol - Elem Secretary, Jaimie Gargas - HS English, Nathan Doran - Head Boys Golf, Jerrod Bridgewater - MS Soccer, Shauna Smith - Curriculum and Student Services

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to appoint Randy Denham as Board Secretary effective July 1, 2021.   All Ayes. 

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to remove Mary Boege from the bank accounts at Lincoln Savings Bank and State Bank of Toledo and add Randy Denham effective July 1, 2021.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the Math Curriculum purchase as presented  All Ayes. 

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the Tanager Place contract for the 2021-2022 school year.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the purchase of three buses from School Bus Sales for $113,387 each.  All Ayes.  

Superintendent Smith requested a special session the week of July 5th.  It was decided to hold the regular monthly meeting on July 8, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 5:38 p.m.  All Ayes

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                       Mary Boege, Board Secretary     
 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on July 8, 2021 in Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin and Ronald Houghton.  Absent:  Alan Kline and Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.   

Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Motion by Houghton second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the June 7, 2021 meeting, financials and bills for payment as presented, and an early graduation request for Nathan Adams.   All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Barry Sedlacek and Jane Murphy from the Class of 1971 presented a 50^th class reunion project to the Board. The project will consist of a large rock to be placed in front of the high school honoring all of those who have attended South Tama. Mr. Sedlacek and Ms. Murphy stated that there would be a dedication ceremony for this project on September 10^th.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts – Rashell Mendoza – Summer Custodian, Dawn Vest – Summer Paint Crew, Rachel Davis – HS ELA Lead Teacher, Michelle Wiegand – 6^th Grade Lead Teacher, Tiffany Bridgewater – ELL Lead Teacher, Samantha Peska – Director of Curriculum & Student Services, Hannah Bjornsen – Elem Food Service, Aaron Kvidera – Elem Food Service, Andrea Asmussen – Middle School Food Service, John Koorsen – Bus Driver, Olivia Gannaway – Elem SpEd Para, Brycelyn Haughey – Elem Para, Danielle Stubbs – Elem SpEd Para, Michelle Davis – Elem Secretary

Transfers – Leticia Babinat – From MS Aide to MS Interventionist, Nicole Hitchcock – From Elem SpEd Aide to Parent/Community Liaison, Trudy Suchanek – From Elem SpEd Para to Elem Para – Title I

Motion by Lekin second by Houghton to approve the bread bid received from Pan-O-Gold Baking Co. for the 2021-2022 school year.   All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to purchase a pressure washer system for the Transportation Department for $11,705.31.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve an agreement with rSchool Today for scheduling and facility rental software for the 2021-2022 school year for $3,100.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the updates to Board Policy 904.10 – Use of Building Facilities as recommended.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the bid from Dunn Concrete for Elementary tuckpointing in the amount of $25,330.  All Ayes. 

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the bid from RC Systems for new cameras at the Middle School and Partnership Center for $44,915.65. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the 2021-2022 Certified Staff Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Classified Staff Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the 2021-2022 Substitute Staff Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve adding Health Items to the 2021-2022 Student Handbooks as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Preschool Student Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Elementary Student Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Middle School Student Handbook as presented. All Ayes. The Board requested to discuss Lockers and Backpacks at the Middle School at a future meeting.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to table approval of the 2021-2022 High School Student Handbook to the August 2 Board Meeting. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the 2021-2022 Activities Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Superintendent Smith presented the South Tama Activities Superintendent’s Annual Report to the Board.

Superintendent Smith provided an update on the Stop Signs/Stop Lights on Highway 63. The Board determined that there would be no need to move forward at this time with having Stop Signs/Stop Lights on Highway 63.

The Board discussed different options for meeting locations for the August 2 Board Meeting. It was determined to hold the August 2 Board meeting in the Middle School Library.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 6:39 p.m.  All Ayes

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 2, 2021 in a Work Session at 5:00 p.m. at the Middle School with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, and Ronald Houghton.  Absent:  Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.   

Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Laura Peterson and Brad Leeper from Invision Architects, Ryan Ellsworth from Estes Construction, and several members of the community.

Laura Peterson and Brad Leeper from Invision Architects and Brad Leeper from Estes Construction gave a presentation recapping the work that the Middle School Facilities Planning Task Force has done so far.

Work session concluded at 5:33 p.m.

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 2, 2021 in a Regular Session at 5:35 p.m. at the Middle School with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, and Ronald Houghton.  Absent:  Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.  

Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Laura Peterson and Brad Leeper from Invision Architects, Ryan Ellsworth from Estes Construction, and several members of the community

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the July 8, 2021 regular meeting and bills for payment as presented.   All Ayes.

Public Comments - None

Shanahan Family Chiropractic was unable to attend the meeting for the PIE plaque presentation. It was discussed that the presentation would occur at a later date.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts – Tara Upah – HS Color Guard Coach, Josh Bly – HS Asst Football Coach, Rashell Mendoza – HS Concessions Manager, Debbie Price – Part time Special Ed Para. 

Transfers – Kenadie Geiger – From 3^rd Grade Teacher to Elementary Interventionist, Devin Stacey – From MS Special Ed Para to MS At Risk Para. 

Resignations – Marylou Aguirre – Partnership Secretary, Sandy Jensen – HS Custodian. 

Volunteers – Mary Fasse Shaw – Fall Musical, Jeff Shaw – Fall Musical, Darcy Lamb – HS Musical, Bailey Chyma – HS Football, Stan Upah – HS Volleyball, Morgan McFate – HS Football Cheer, Sabrina Holtz – HS Volleyball. 

Officials – Eugene Ubben – HS Boys Basketball, Stacy O’Hare – HS Boys Basketball

Motion by Lekin second by Kline to approve an updated 403b agreement with the Iowa Retirement Investment Club.   All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve Lincoln Savings Bank and the State Bank of Toledo as the official depositories for the 2021-2022 school year with an upper limit of $15,000,000.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the Tama-Toledo News Chronicle as the official publication of the District for the 2021-2022 school year.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the HS Volleyball overnight trip to Central College camp.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the first reading of Board Policy 502.08 – Possession or Use of Electronic Communication Devices as presented.  All Ayes. 

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the 2021-2022 High School Student Handbook as presented with the exception to revert back to the original Dress Code language. All Ayes. The Board discussed the Dress Code section with Administration. It was determined that Administration would take the Board’s concerns back to staff and students to come up with responses to those concerns. Administration will bring those responses back to the Board at a later date for further discussion.  

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Elementary Staff Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Middle School Principal Ben Adams presented the Middle School Staff Handbook to the Board. Mr. Adams discussed the plans in place to move away from having lockers in the Middle School. Mr. Adams discussed the various benefits of moving away from lockers and also addressed safety concerns. Mr. Adams stated that they would continue to accommodate students and their needs when necessary.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Middle School Staff Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the 2021-2022 High School Staff Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the 2021-2022 Staff Mentor Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the 2021-2022 TLC Leadership Handbook as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to adjourn the meeting at 6:23 p.m.  All Ayes

 

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 16, 2021 in a Regular Session at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary School with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, Clint Werner, and Ronald Houghton.  Absent:  None.  Quorum Present.  

Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, and several members of the community

The Board requested to have a COVID discussion item added to the agenda. Motion by Houghton second by Kline to approve the agenda with the addition of the COVID discussion item.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes of the August 2, 2021 work session and regular meeting, monthly financial reports, and bills for payment as presented.   All Ayes.

Public Comments – High School senior Jonathan Meyer stated he was coming to the Board as a representative of the Student Body. Mr. Meyer stated that the students want to be more involved in the District and that he would like the opportunity to be able to get information from students to the Board. Mr. Meyer thanked the Board for all their efforts and for everything they do for students.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts – James Hala – Bus Driver, Kodi Hillman – Assistant 7/8 Volleyball Coach

Transfers – Angelica Gomez – From Elementary ELL Para to Partnership Center Secretary, Tiffany Matney – From MS Part time Special Ed Para to Full time Special Ed Para, Marie Mann – From Part time HS Para to Full time HS 1:1 Special Ed Para

Resignations – Chelsea Ahrens – Head Varsity Softball Coach, Nate Van Dyke – Head Varsity Boys Soccer Coach

Officials – Tia Waseskuk – MS Volleyball, Tiffany Thiessen – MS Volleyball

Motion by Lekin second by Houghton to approve a student teaching agreement with Grinnell College for the 2021-2022 school year. All Ayes.

The Board discussed the Communications Firm proposals that had been presented. The Board stated that they would like some additional information from each firm and would like them to present at the next Board meeting to help answer questions they have. Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to table selection of a Communications Firm to assist with the Middle School project to the next Board meeting.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the custodial cost changes for Board Policy 905.01-Community Use of Buildings and Facilities as presented.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve a three-year agreement with Satchel Pulse for Culture Climate consulting for $18,495 using ESSER funds.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve changing the 2021-2022 school calendar to set a one hour early dismissal on the first day of school. All Ayes.

The Board discussed different dates for upcoming Board meetings. The Board discussed the following dates for the next several Board meetings: August 30, September 20, October 4, October 18, November 1, November 15, and December 6. The Board discussed continuing to have Board meetings at the Elementary until further notice.

Mr. Denham asked for guidance from the Board on what they would like to see on future monthly financial reports. Mr. Denham presented several different examples for the Board to review. The Board gave Mr. Denham guidance as to what they would like to see on the Monthly Financial Reports going forward.

The Board discussed setting a date for a future finance work session with the Middle School Task Force. The Board discussed having a finance work session with the Middle School Task Force on August 30 at 5:00 p.m.

The Board discussed concerns regarding the current mandate in place that does not allow schools to require masks and the potential of students getting sick. The Board stated that students and staff may choose to wear masks if they wish and wanted to make sure that all students and staff are comfortable and will be supported in their decision. The Board also discussed the potential to go to remote learning if needed and verified that the District would be capable of doing so if necessary.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to adjourn the meeting at 6:17 p.m.  All Ayes

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

 

WORK SESSION & REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE 

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 30, 2021 in a Work Session at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary School with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, and Clint Werner. Members Present through Google Hangouts: Ron Houghton.  Absent: None.  Quorum Present.   

Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Laura Peterson from Invision Architects, Ryan Ellsworth from Estes Construction, Travis Squires from Piper Sadler, Rod Wright from Creative Entourage, Jerry Gallagher from Donovan Group, members of the Middle School Task Force, and several members of the community.

Director of Finance Randy Denham gave a presentation to the Board and the Middle School Task Force reviewing school finance. Mr. Denham also provided information regarding the District’s historical tax rates, costs related to the Derecho storm, and a historical overview of the District’s PPEL and SAVE Funds.

Travis Squires from Piper Sadler gave a presentation to the Board and the Middle School Task Force reviewing the capital financing and capabilities of a Middle School Project. Mr. Squires discussed the District’s current debt obligations and the different options available to finance a potential project.

The Board and Middle School Task Force discussed the presentations from Mr. Denham and Mr. Squires and participated in a Q&A session.   

Work session concluded at 6:37 p.m.

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 30, 2021 in a Regular Session at 6:37 p.m. at the Elementary School with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, and Clint Werner. Present through Google Hangouts: Ron Houghton.  Absent: None.  Quorum Present.  

Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Laura Peterson from Invision Architects, Ryan Ellsworth from Estes Construction, Rod Wright from Creative Entourage, Jerry Gallagher from Donovan Group, members of the Middle School Task Force, and several members of the community

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Emily Chyma and Student Council president Carly Mathes-Henle provided an update to the Board of all the activities that will be going on throughout the District during Homecoming week. Ms. Chyma and Ms. Henle discussed how they are working to get the community involved in these activities. Ms. Chyma and Ms. Henle stated that the Student Council is in the process of rewriting their constitution to be more inclusive of everyone.

Rod Wright from Creative Entourage gave a presentation to the Board regarding the communication consulting services his firm could provide for the Middle School project.

The Board took a break at 7:30 p.m. The meeting resumed at 7:34 p.m.

Jerry Gallagher from Donovan Group gave a presentation to the Board regarding the communication consulting services his firm could provide for the Middle School project.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the August 16, 2021 Regular Board Meeting, bills as presented, and early graduation requests for the following students: Tristin Henle, Ethan Pesina, and Autumn Ruckman.   All Ayes.

Public Comments – Charlotte Upah stated that she does not agree that a communications firm is needed at this time for the Middle School Project and feels that the Middle School Task Force could be a better option to handle the communication needs for the project. Ms. Upah stated that she felt hiring a communications firm was premature and would be contradictory to what the Task Force is trying to do. Ms. Upah felt that spending money on a communications firm at this time would be fiscally irresponsible.

The Board thanked Ms. Upah for her comments.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the personnel requests as presented.  All Ayes.

Contracts – Taylor Ray – Part Time Elementary ELL Para, Heather Keen – Elementary Special Ed Para, Nicholas Wheeler – High School Custodian.

Volunteers – Marla Behounek – Musical, Marlene Crabtree – Work in Classrooms and Field Trips as the Elementary

The Board discussed the two presentations that were given by Creative Entourage and Donovan Group. The Board stated that they would prefer to wait and see what recommendation the Middle School Task Force came back with before making a decision. Motion by Werner, second by Houghton to table selecting a Communications Company to a future Board Meeting once they have received a recommendation from the Middle School Task Force. All Ayes.

Motion by Kline second by Lekin to approve an agreement with ISFIS Write to Learn to purchase 250 licenses and training for the 2021-2022 school year for $4,250. All Ayes.

Motion by Hougton, second by Kline to approve a resolution to set a public hearing on the conveyance of property located at 806 State Street for September 20, 2021 at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary Building.  All Ayes.

Motion by Werner, second by Lekin to approve switching the District’s credit card company from BMO Harris to Lincoln Savings Bank.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve an agreement with Mark J. Becker & Associates, LLC to provide benefits consulting for the District for the 2021-2022 year at $15,600.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve Ahlers & Cooney as the District’s legal counsel for the 2021-2022 year.  All Ayes. 

The Board decided to table the consent agenda discussion to the September 20, 2021 Board meeting. 

Dr. Smith presented the list of the Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) 2022 Legislative priorities. Dr. Smith asked the Board to review the priorities and determine which four priorities they would like to vote on and submit to IASB at the next Board meeting.

Motion by Kline, second by Houghton to adjourn the meeting at 8:18 p.m.  All Ayes

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

PUBLIC HEARING AND REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on September 20, 2021 for a Public Hearing on the conveyance of school owned property at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, Ronald Houghton, and Clint Werner. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing – Conveyance of School Owned Property: President Tyynismaa opened the Public Hearing for the conveyance of school owned property located at 806 State Street, Tama, IA at 5:00 p.m. President Tyynismaa asked for public comments. Hearing none, President Tyynismaa asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to close the Public Hearing at 5:03 p.m.  All Ayes.

The Regular Session was called to order at 5:04 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Alan Kline, Ron Houghton, and Clint Werner.  Members Absent - None.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes from the August 30, 2021 work session and regular meeting, financial statements, and bills for payment as presented.  All Ayes.

Public Comments – Nikki Kemper addressed the Board about the mask discussion topic that was on the agenda. Ms. Kemper stated that there were people in the community that were not aware this item was going to be on the agenda and that many parents were not able to make it to the meeting to share their views on the topic.  Ms. Kemper stated that there are several people in the community that do not want a mask mandate and felt the Board should move this topic to a special meeting.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

Resignations – Daniel Kass – Head 9^th Baseball, Todd Dale – Head 8^th Boys Track

Contracts – Kimi Benson – Dance Team Coach, Heather Garrett – Elementary Building Webmaster, Crystal Hass – Middle School Building Webmaster, Victoria Hamilton – High School Building Webmaster, Patricia Gomez – Full Time Special Ed Para, Brittani West – Part Time Special Ed Para

Volunteers – Nathan Babinat – Driver (suburban & trailer) band, Kristy Garber – Kindergarten Class, Nickolas Seitz – D&D Roleplaying Club, Gwenyth Upah – Help in Classroom

Officials – Amy Dolash – 8^th Grade Volleyball, Eugene Ubben – 7^th Grade Volleyball, Tom Kemper – 7^th & 8^th Grade Football, FR-SO Girls Basketball, Jeremy Weiermann – 7^th & 8^th Grade Football, Seth Koch – 7^th & 8^th Grade Football, Kory Staff – 7^th & 8^th Grade Football, David Nitz – 7^th & 8^th Grade Football, Kevin Cartier – 7^th & 8^th Grade Volleyball, Deidra Mohr – FR-SO Boys Basketball, Andrew May – HS Varsity Wrestling, David Lee – HS Varsity Boys Track, William Neal – HS Varsity Boys Track.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the 2021-2022 High School Activity Department fundraisers as presented. All Ayes                           

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve a five-year Student Teaching and Clinical Agreement with William Penn University as presented.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the following IASB Legislative Priorities for the 2021-2022 school year: Support efforts to establish comprehensive community mental health systems to offer preventative and treatment services and comprehensive school mental health programs; Support additional tools for Teacher Recruitment and Licensure to attract individuals to the teaching profession, especially for teacher shortage areas; Support sufficient and on-time funding for English-Learners until the students reach proficiency; and Support predictable and timely state funding to serve students receiving special education services at a level that reflects the actual cost including educational programming and health care costs. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the Resolution for a Conveyance of School Owned Property located at 806 State Street, Tama, IA.  Roll Call Vote: Tyynismaa – Aye, Lekin – Aye, Kline – Aye, Werner – Aye, Houghton – Aye. The motion passed.

Motion by Houghton, second by Kline to approve the following individuals as Level I Student Abuse Investigators for the 2021-2022 school year: Brad Schweppe, Kris Collins, Melanie Kemper, Anita Townsley, Ben Adams, Scott Bolen, Crystal Hass, Blake Wedeking, Mark Groteluschen, Anthony Jahr, Dan Lopez, Dina Keahna, Samantha Peska, and Jared Smith. All Ayes.

The Board discussed the recent federal judge ruling that ordered the State of Iowa to immediately halt the enforcement of the law that prevents School Boards from ordering masks to be worn to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Dr. Smith shared feedback that was given by staff along with information that he gathered from other WAMAC schools. Dr. Smith shared the challenges the District faces if there is a large number of staff members that are gone. The Board discussed the different staffing issues that the District has had to manage over the last several months. The Board discussed positivity and vaccination rates and how closely they should be monitoring those numbers and how much that information should weigh in on any decisions that the Board would have to make. The Board shared and discussed the feedback that they had received from community patrons on the issue as well as the feedback from staff that was shared by Dr. Smith. The Board stated that they want to do what is best for the health and safety of all students and staff.

The Board discussed and gave administration the following mitigation strategies that they would like to see implemented going forward: Having surgical masks on hand and made readily available to all students, staff, and guests; Offer masks at every entrance during school activities; Ensure that all buildings and staff have ample cleaning supplies to clean all areas thoroughly; Have signage posted at all entry ways throughout the District stating the importance of masking; Send out separate parent feedback surveys to parents of students in PK through 4^th grade and 5^th through 12^th grade; Update and resend out the FAQ document to all parents; Look for opportunities to change seating in the classrooms to help mitigate any potential spread of the virus.

The Board stated that they would like to see a COVID discussion item on each Board meeting going forward to get continuous updates on the mitigation strategies being implemented and to review up to date data. The Board stated they would like to continue to revisit this topic so that they can make any necessary adjustments if COVID cases get too high or if there are issues with staff shortages.

The Board encouraged community members to reach out to the Administration and the Board with any feedback or concerns that they have.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to continue the current practice of having masks be optional for all students and staff who are comfortable wearing them and for Administration to implement the mitigation strategies that were given. All Ayes.

The Board discussed the current process around how the consent agenda is handled each Board meeting and reviewed different options to the consent agenda process.

Dr. Smith provided an update to the Board regarding the communications firm for the Middle School project. Dr. Smith stated the Task Force met last week and will be leading and providing communication for the Middle School project at this time. The Task Force may look to use the Donovan Group as needed at a later date. Dr. Smith updated the Board that the Task Force will be having broader community meeting open forums in October and November.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:44 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

REGULAR SESSION OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Regular Session on October 4, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, and Ronald Houghton. Absent: Alan Kline and Clint Werner. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the September 20, 2021 public hearing and regular meeting; Bills for payment as presented; Rental agreement with the Reining Center for November 9, 2021 Middle School Community Meeting, Authorize the Board President and/or Superintendent to issue and approve Special Education Contracts and Open Enrollment Applications; Approve contract with Kirkwood Community College for Special Education Transitional 4+ services; Approve Cooperative Agreement for Field Placement with the University of Northern Iowa.  All Ayes.

Public Comments – None.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

New Hires – Juanita Hill – Part Time Admin Office Custodian; James Hala – Part Time District Wide Custodian (Additional COVID Cleaning)

Resignations – Makayla Backen – MS Assistant Softball Coach

Volunteers – Claire Mayo – Elementary Field Trips & Classroom as Needed; Bailey Waldo – Chaperoning for Thespian Festival; Dalton Rosenburg – Middle School Boys Wrestling

Officials – Kym Stein – 7^th Grade Volleyball; Tara Leytham – 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball, 9^th Boys Basketball; Wayne Ritscher – 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball, 10^th Boys Basketball; Tom Kemper – 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball, 10^th Boys Basketball; David Lee – High School Varsity Boys Track & Field; Willam Neal – High School Varsity Boys Track & Field

Motion by Lekin, second by Hougton to approve the following purchases using ESSER Funds: Chariot Floor Scrubber for the Elementary for $13,115; Air Purifier Filters for the District for $17,193.96; Vape Detection System for $25,650; Weight Room Equipment for $101,173.51, and Board Room Audio Visual Equipment Upgrade for $50,248.83. All Ayes                           

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following additional two-hour early dismissal days: October 22, 2021; November 12, 2021; and December 10, 2021.  All Ayes.

Dr. Smith provided a COVID update to the Board. Dr. Smith shared with the Board the additional cleaning and COVID mitigation efforts that were being done throughout the District. Dr. Smith then shared the updated COVID dashboard numbers along with survey results that had been sent out to Elementary families and staff. The Board discussed different options if COVID cases, absenteeism numbers, and staff shortages reach a certain threshold. The Board stated that if needed they can call a special meeting to make any necessary decisions if any of those thresholds are met.

Mr. Denham reviewed the fiscal year end 2021 reports with the Board.

Mr. Denham informed the Board of a Lauderdale donation that will be presented to the Board for formal approval at a later date.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to adjourn the meeting at 6:09 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Regular Session on October 18, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Clint Werner, and Ronald Houghton. Absent: Alan Kline. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Elizabeth Dolezal, Larry Fletcher, and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the October 4, 2021 public hearing and regular meeting; Bills for payment as presented; and Monthly Financial Reports. All Ayes.

Public Comments – None.

Emily Chyma provided an update to the Board on upcoming Student Council activities. Ms. Chyma stated that some Student Council members would be attending the upcoming state convention and that Elizabeth Albright and Carly Mathes-Henly would be singing the National Anthem at the convention. Ms. Chyma stated that there would be a Trunk or Treat in the High School parking lot on October 30^th and that Student Council would be hosting a blood drive on November 10^th. Student Council members recently met with administrators to discuss and work through issues. Ms. Chyma stated that this was a positive discussion and students were happy to have their voices heard.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

New Hires – Dale Cruikshank – MS Assistant Wrestling Coach; Anita Townsley – Teacher Mentor; George Kuhter – HS Head Boys Golf Coach.

After School Program Coordinators: Amy Wyatt and Leticia Babinat

After School Program Teachers: Dawn Henley, Haley Wilson, Alice Koch, Melody Cole, Janelle Unkrich, Melissa Jesina, Matthew Beatty, Teresa Hofer, Kelsea Anderson, Amy Parizek, Molly Ramirez, Regina Gill, Elizabeth Weitzell, Michelle Wiegand, Carla Coates, Ashley Steven, Morgan McFate, Megan Brown, Sarah Klopping, Nicole Hitchcock, Mariah Snyder, Levi Klopping, George Kuhter, Chelsea Ahrens, Angela Bair, Michelle Bradley, Emily Chyma, Denise Danker, Rachael Davis, Victoria Hamilton, Daniel Kass, Jill Kienzle, Daniel Mayo, Joseph Miller, Miranda Moen, Katherine Murphy, Delonda Pushetonequa, Audrey Roth, Andrea Rutledge, Noah Schmelzer, Sandra Tracy, Robert Tyynismaa, Alison Vavra, Nicholas Vesley, Patricia Vincent, Amy Wade, Deanna Zmolek

After School Program Paraeducators: Trudy Suchanek, Jorena Vavra, Melinda Martens, Tracy Glockl, Marie Mann, Sarah Novotny, and Elizabeth Placencia.

Volunteers – Gustavo Chavarria – HS Gamers Night

Officials – Tessa Matherly – MS 7^th Grade Volleyball, John Bartello – MS Wrestling, Bryan Foster – MS Wrestling, Brandon Dufoe – MS Wrestling, Patrick Kopsa – MS Wrestling, Ben Marshall – MS Wrestling, Dan Loughry – MS Wrestling, Jeremy Weiermann – Girls 7^th Grade Basketball, Tom Kemper – Girls 7^th & 8^th Grade Basketball, James Hall – Girls 7^th & 8^th Grade Basketball, Robert Averill – Girls 7^th & 8^th Grade Basketball, David Nitz – Girls 7^th & 8^th Grade Basketball, Dan Rhine – HS Varsity Girls Volleyball, Dennis Dirks – HS 9^th Grade Volleyball, Donald Anderson – HS 9^th Grade Volleyball, Deidra Mohr – HS Varsity Girls Volleyball, Tiffany Thiessen – HS 9^th & Varsity Volleyball, Gregory Davies – HS 9^th & Varsity Volleyball

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to approve the 2021-2022 STC Activities Overnight Trips as presented. All Ayes                           

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the revised changes to Board Policy 401.7R1 Early Retirement Incentives as presented.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to approve the Early Retirement incentive of $7,800 a year for five years. All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the donation of one old school bus to the Tama Fire Department and old school bus to the Toledo Fire Department to be used for local training exercises. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the resolution authorizing the Board President, Superintendent, or Board Secretary to open a stock account with the State Bank of Toledo. All Ayes.

Dr. Smith provided a COVID update to the Board. Dr. Smith shared the most recent COVID Dashboard numbers with the Board and provided an update on recent meetings he has had with staff members.  

Dr. Smith stated the IASB annual convention will be occurring on November 17^th and 18^th. Dr. Smith asked the Board to contact the administrative if they would like to register and attend the conference. Dr. Smith and the Board discussed different options for having a work session for new Board orientation sometime after the November 2^nd election.

Elizabeth Dolezal and Larry Fletcher from the Middle School Task force provided an update to the Board on the Middle School project. Ms. Dolezal and Mr. Fletcher gave a recap of what has occurred during the Task Force meetings over the last 4-5 months.  Mr. Fletcher stated that the Task Force has narrowed the Middle School project down to two designs. Mr. Fletcher and Ms. Dolezal stated the State is interested in incentivizing the use of the Juvenile Home property. There was discussion around the Juvenile Home property and what amount would be needed from the State to make the Juvenile Home property a viable option. The Task Force is working to compromise and come up with a plan that everyone can agree on and present to the Board and the Community. The Task Force also asked for more clarity and direction from the Board for this Middle School project. The Task Force Representatives and the Board discussed the current contract situations with the Middle School project Construction Manager and Architect. The Board and the Task Force members discussed having a joint work session at the next Board meeting on November 1^st.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:29 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Regular Session on November 1, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Clint Werner, and Ronald Houghton. Absent: Alan Kline. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Samantha Peska, building principals, and several members of the community.

Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the October 18, 2021 regular meeting; Bills for payment as presented; and a three-year agreement with The Shredder for document disposal services. All Ayes.

Public Comments – Jim Roan addressed the Board about the proposed Middle School project. Mr. Roan shared his experiences on the various projects he has assisted the School District and the community with over the years. Mr. Roan asked the Board to consider all factors involved when looking at building a brand-new Middle School versus using an existing facility such as the Juvenile Home. Mr. Roan thanked the Board for all of their hard work and service.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes.

New Hires:  Lon Wilkerson – HS Head Varsity Softball Coach; Jeff Niedermann – HS Head Varsity Boys Soccer Coach.  

Transfers: Katie Schuett – From full time District-wide Substitute to Elementary Special Education Teacher

Resignations: Rick Hopper – MS 7^th/8^th Boys Basketball Coach; Lon Wilkerson – HS Assistant Varsity Softball Coach

Volunteers: Baron Davis – Wrestling; Mike Wedmore – HS Boys Basketball; Jason Arp – MS/HS Wrestling; Mike Carnahan – Esports Team DEC; Daniel Kass – Esports Team Coach

Officials: Seth Koch – HS 9^th Boys Basketball; Eugene Ubben – 7^th Grade Girls Basketball, 8^th Grade Boys Basketball; David Lee – MS Girls & Boys Track & Field; David Nitz – 7^th & 8^th Grade Boys Basketball; Robert Averill – 7^th & 8^th Grade Boys Basketball; Jeremy Weiermann  - 7^th & 8^th Grade Boys Basketball

Anthony Jahr and Mike Carnahan presented a proposed large Music trip for High School students from May 25, 2022-May 30, 2022. Discussion occurred regarding the timing of the trip and potential scheduling conflicts with semester tests, potential snow days, and summer sports seasons.

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to approve the 2022 Large Band Trip to Los Angeles, CA from May 25, 2022-May 30, 2022. Ayes: Lekin, Hougton, Werner. Nays: Tyynismaa. The motion carried.

Mr. Jahr asked the Board if they would like to open up the use of facilities to outside organizations again as the District has started to receive requests. Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve allowing outside groups to start renting STC facilities again.  All Ayes.

Mr. Jahr and Mr. Carnahan presented a request to approve the addition of an ESports Team to South Tama. Mr. Jahr reviewed the State sanctioned governing requirements for the program. Mr. Jahr explained how the program would be set up and run in the District. Motion by Lekin, second by Houghton to approve the addition of an Esports Team for students. All Ayes.

Motion by Houghton, second by Lekin to approve the Impact Aid Indian Policies and Procedures as presented for the 2022-2023 school year. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to approve the application to the School Budget Review Committee in the amount of $2,079.98 for special education administrative costs associated with the River Hills Consortium program for the 2022-2023 school year. All Ayes.

Dr. Smith provided the Board an update from the most recent Middle School Task Force meeting. Dr. Smith stated that there would be community input meetings during the month of November for the Middle School Project. At the last Middle School Task Force meeting it had been discussed and decided to move forward with a communications firm.

The Board discussed concerns around the process and whether now was the right time to move forward with a communications firm for the Middle School Project. The Board discussed potentially having work sessions with the Task Force in the near future to discuss the project and options in more detail.  

Motion by Houghton, second by Werner to table the decision for the use of Donovan Group as the Communications Firm to assist with the Middle School Project to a future meeting. Ayes: Lekin, Houghton, Werner. Nays: Tyynismaa. The motion carried.  

Samantha Peska shared the 2020-2021 ISASP results with the Board. Mrs. Peska reviewed the steps the District is taking to address learning loss. Each of the building principals briefly shared the various programs being done in each of their buildings to help students.

Dr. Smith provided a COVID update to the Board. Dr. Smith shared the most recent COVID Dashboard numbers and shared custodial staff cleaning expectations with the Board.

Dr. Smith gave an updated timeline from the Middle School Task Force. Dr. Smith proposed moving the December Board meeting to December 13^th. Dr. Smith also proposed changing the dates for the January and February Board meetings due to regularly scheduled Board meetings falling on holidays. Dr. Smith provided the following dates for the January and February Board Meetings: January 10, 2022, January 24, 2022, February 7, 2022, and February 22, 2022. Dr. Smith stated that Board meetings could resume back to the first and third Monday of each month starting in March. The Board stated that these dates would work for them.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Regular Session to hold the Annual Meeting on November 15, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:01 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Clint Werner, Alan Kline. Ronald Houghton attended via Google Hangouts. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Jared Schirmer and Jessica Manfull from Lincoln Savings Bank, Nicole Hitchcock, Heather Gould and Maureen Hanson from Central Rivers AEA, and several members of the community.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the November 1, 2021 regular meeting; Bills for payment as presented; Financial Statements as presented; and a rental agreement with the Reining Center for December 15, 2021. All Ayes.

Public Comments – None.

Nicole Hitchcock made a Partners in Education presentation to Lincoln Savings Bank representatives Jared Schirmer and Jessica Manfull.  

Heather Gould and Maureen Hanson from Central Rivers AEA reviewed the various services and resources that the AEA’s provide to local school districts.  

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. 

Transfers: Matthew Beatty – From MS 7^th Head Girls Track to MS 7^th Head Boys Track

Resignations: Dawn Vest – Bus Driver effective November 30, 2021; Ruth Kosbau - Costumer

Volunteers: Travis Smith – HS Wrestling; Shannon Crawford – HS/Elementary Activities

Officials: Stacy O’Hare – HS 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball; Eugen Ubben – HS 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball; Jeremy Weiermann – HS 9^th Boys Basketball

Dr. Smith presented the Communication Firm agreement to assist with the Middle School Project.  Dr. Smith updated the Board on questions and concerns that have previously come up with regards to the Communications Firm and how those issues have been addressed.  

Motion by Werner, second by Lekin to approve the agreement with the Donovan Group as a Communications Firm to assist with the Middle School Project. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the School Budget Review Committee application for modified supplemental amount of $84,576 for students that were open enrolled out but were not included on the prior year certified count as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Kline, second by Lekin to approve the application to the School Budget Review Committee for modified supplemental amount of $112,596.66 for LEP programming beyond 5 years as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Werner, second by Kline to approve the application to the School Budget Review Committee for modified supplemental amount of $186,725.12 for LEP allowable costs. All Ayes.

Motion by Lekin, second by Kline to approve the 2020-2021 fiscal year Treasurer’s Annual Settlement Report as presented. All Ayes.

Mr. Denham reviewed the canvas of election results. Elizabeth Dolezal was declared the winner of the District 1 election and Beth Wiese was declared the winner of the District 4 election. Dr. Smith and the Board thanked Alan Kline and Ron Houghton for their years of service on the Board.

Motion by Lekin, second by Werner to adjourn the Annual Meeting at 5:41 p.m. All Ayes.

Mr. Denham called the Organizational Meeting to Order at 5:41 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present: Penny Tyynismaa, Mandy Lekin, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Absent: None.

Mr. Denham administered the Oath of Office to Elizabeth Dolezal and Beth Wiese.

Mr. Denham accepted nominations for Board President. Penny Tyynismaa nominated Mandy Lekin which was seconded by Clint Werner. Receiving no other nominations, the motion passed unanimously to elect Mandy Lekin as Board President for the next year.

Mr. Denham administered the Oath of Office to Mandy Lekin as Board President.

President Lekin accepted nominations for Board Vice President. Board member Clint Werner nominated Penny Tyynismaa which was seconded by Elizabeth Dolezal. Receiving no other nominations, the motion passed to unanimously elect Penny Tyynismaa as Board Vice President for the next year.

Mr. Denham administered the Oath of Office to Penny Tyynismaa as Board Vice President.

Dr. Smith provided a Middle School Project Update. Dr. Smith recapped the community meetings from the prior week and shared the project packet that was presented during the meetings. Dr. Smith reviewed the most recent results of the survey that had been shared with the community after the meetings. The Board discussed concerns regarding the lack of community members with school age children participating in the community meetings. The Board discussed different options to increase the engagement of those families with the Middle School Project. The Board reviewed the preliminary designs for the two options and also discussed the pros and cons of each. The Board discussed potential student impact of shared staff and how to quantify educational opportunities for students for each location.

Dr. Smith provided a COVID update to the Board. Dr. Smith shared the most recent updates on the status of the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard. The Board discussed different options if the OSHA standard becomes law. The Board advised the Administrative Team to take a wait and see approach until clearer guidance comes from State Associations and legal counsel.  

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:36 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Penny Tyynismaa, Board President                     Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Regular Session on December 13, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, Middle School Principal Ben Adams, Brad Leeper and Laura Peterson from Invision Architects, Ryan Ellsworth from Estes Construction, Travis Squires from Piper Sandler, Middle School Task Force Members Matt Zmolek, Charlotte Upah, and Doug Stadler, Katherine Olindecker from Tama County Economic Development, and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the November 15, 2021 regular meeting and annual meeting; Bills for payment as presented; Financial Statements as presented; early graduation request for Jose Herrera and Andrea Ortega; and a software service agreement with Tyler Technologies for Transportation Student Tracking System. All Ayes.

Public Comments – None.

Matt Zmolek made a presentation on behalf of the Middle School Task Force. Mr. Zmolek reviewed the process that the Task Force went through to come up with their recommendation. The Middle School Task Force recommended to move forward with the Iowa Juvenile Home option at an estimated cost of $25 million.

Ryan Ellsworth presented the engineering assessment report from IMEG that was done on November 29. The Board discussed the condition of the Iowa Juvenile Home property and whether or not $25 million is an accurate estimate based on the potential needs of the building. The Board also discussed the current mechanical systems on the Juvenile Home property and whether those would need to be replaced or not. The Board asked for more clarity on potential funds available from the State of Iowa for the project and how the District would have to apply for and receive those funds if they are available.

Travis Squires from Piper Sandler discussed the different funding options available to the Board and also explained the timeline to get the needed petition signatures in by the January 14 deadline to be put on the ballot in March.

The Board discussed the different options available to them. The Board discussed that they would like to gather more information. The Board stated they would like to know exactly how much money the State is willing to contribute to the project. The Board also wanted more information from the City of Toledo and Tama County with regards to how they would partner with the District on a potential project at the Juvenile Home Site. The Board then discussed holding a special meeting in the near future once they were able to get more information from the State of Iowa, City of Toledo, and Tama County.

Motion by Werner, second by Tyynismaa to table a decision on the Middle School project so that more information could be gathered. Roll Call Vote: Lekin-Aye, Tyynismaa-Aye, Werner-Aye, Dolezal-Aye, Wiese-Aye. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. 

Hires: Anna Marie Scott – Full Time District Wide Sub; Bridget Diveny – High School FCS Teacher; Matthew Beatty – Assistant 7^th/8^th Grade Basketball Coach; Bailey Barnes – Full Time District Wide Sub; Samantha Prior – HS Special Ed Para

Resignations: Sarah Weiermann – High School Assistant Volleyball Coach

Volunteers: Kaity Berry – Elementary Classroom

Officials: Kory Staff – Middle School 8^th Grade Boys Basketball

Dr. Smith presented data to the Board to add four additional early dismissal days for the second semester. The Board discussed starting with two early dismissal days and waiting until after the winter weather season has passed or to stay with four days since there would still be enough hours in the calendar to meet instructional requirements.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve adding four, two-hour early out dismissal days on January 14, 2022; February 11, 2022; March 11, 2022; and May 13, 2022. All Ayes.

Dr. Smith provided a COVID update to the Board. Dr. Smith shared that District COVID numbers have been down but that there has been an uptick in flu cases throughout the District.

Board Members Dolezal and Wiese provided an update to the Board on their experience at the Iowa Association of School Boards convention in November. Board Member Dolezal also gave the Board a recap of the Legislative Dinner that she attended on December 1 with Dr. Smith and Mr. Denham that was hosted at East Marshall school.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 7:20 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

 

 

WORK SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in a Work Session on December 22, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Dr. Smith recapped the process and steps that have been taken over the last several months with the proposed Middle School Project. Dr. Smith also reviewed the presentation and recommendation that had been brought forth by the Task Force at the December 13 Board Meeting as well as the results of the most recent survey that had been sent out to the community.

The Board discussed the various repairs and renovations that would be needed at the Iowa Juvenile Home property as well as the concern for unknown repairs and renovations that could potentially occur. The Board discussed the IMEG engineering assessment from the previous Board Meeting and how some of the costs within that estimate were not included with the original budget estimate provided by Estes Construction.

President Lekin and Board Member Dolezal shared updates with the rest of the Board on conversations that they had with District Administration, Task Force Members, Toledo City Council, and representatives from Iowa Economic Development within the last week in regards to the District potentially moving forward with a Middle School project at the Iowa Juvenile Home property.

The Board reviewed the $25 million budget that had been presented by the Task Force and discussed whether that would be enough to cover the costs of the project due to all of the potential unknowns with taking the Iowa Juvenile Home property. The Board discussed concerns with the condition of the roof at the Iowa Juvenile Home and felt that the roof would need to be replaced as part of the renovation project. The Board also discussed some concerns with the sewer on the property and potential costs for repair. The pros and cons of using a Construction Manager versus a General Contractor for the Middle School project were discussed.

The Board asked Administration to reach out to Estes to get updated budget estimates for the Iowa Juvenile Home Property that would include costs to repair the roof. The Board also asked administration to work with the City of Toledo to do some preliminary telescoping of the sewer lines on the property to determine the condition of that system.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 6:38 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in a Special Session on December 27, 2021 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Jared Smith, Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Comment: None

Mr. Denham reviewed the $25 million budget for a potential Middle School at the Iowa Juvenile Home that had been presented by the Task Force at the December 13 Board Meeting. Mr. Denham then provided an updated budget of $26 million that included the updated budget estimates that had been provided by Estes Construction. Mr. Denham explained that the updated budget was calculated using the same approach that the Task Force had used to come up with the original $25 million budget so that the Board could make reasonable comparisons of the two.

The Board discussed several needs that would have to be addressed at the Iowa Juvenile Home property as well as the additional items from the IMEG engineering assessment that were not included in the Estes Construction estimates. The Board discussed the budget for the project and how it would be financed. After a thorough review the Board determined that the budget for the Middle School Project be set at $26.8 million.

Motion by Werner, second by Wiese to approve the District to move forward with the petition process for a special election in March for the Middle School Project at the Iowa Juvenile Home property at a total budget of $26.8 million to be funded by $15 million in GO Bond Debt if approved by the voters in March, $9.8 million in sales tax revenue bonds, and $2 million in sales tax cash on hand. Roll Call Vote: Lekin – Aye, Tyynismaa – Aye, Werner – Aye, Dolezal – Aye, Wiese – Aye. The motion carried. 

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 5:34 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Regular Session on January 10, 2022 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Curriculum Director Samantha Peska, Activities Director Anthony Jahr, Buildings & Grounds Director Steve McAdoo, Jill Kienzle and Cara Rypka from iJag, and several members of the community.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the December 13, 2021 regular meeting, December 22, 2021 work session, and December 27, 2021 special meeting; Bills for payment as presented; early graduation request for Nicolas Bernabe; and a memorandum of understanding with Child Abuse Prevention Services to provide health education curriculum. All Ayes.

Public Comments – Lori Rushford shared her concerns about COVID vaccine mandates with the Board. Matt Kesl, Pat Henry, and Robert McBride shared their concerns about the possibility of sharing baseball and softball programs with Meskwaki Schools.

Jill Kienzle and Cara Rypka from iJag gave a presentation to the Board. Ms. Kienzle and Ms. Rypka provided a summary of what the iJag program is and how it serves junior and senior students at the high school. Ms. Kienzle and Ms. Rypka shared with the Board what the program would look like if expanded to serve all high school students.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. 

Hires: Kodi Hillman – 7^th Grade Girls Track Coach; Heather Garrett – 2^nd Semester mentor for District wide sub; George Kuhter – 2^nd Semester mentor for District wide sub; Sandra Tracy – 2^nd Semester mentor for FCS teacher

Resignations: Nicole Krafka – High School Paraeducator; Brycelyn Haughey – Elementary Paraeducator

Volunteers: Hunter Caraccio – Elementary Classroom

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to accept the Early Retirement Requests meeting Board Policy 401.07R1 for Susan Crain – Preschool Teacher; Alice Murphy – Middle School Paraeducator; Julie Hagerty – High School Activities Secretary; Carolyn Haughey – Accounts Payable Specialist; Charlene Willaby – Middle School Food Service; and Melanie Kemper – Elementary Guidance Counselor and to deny the Early Retirement Request that did not meet Board Policy 401.07R1 for Michelle Bradley-High School Math Teacher. Ayes: Lekin, Tyynismaa, Dolezal. Nays: Werner, Wiese. The motion carried.  

Mrs. Peska reviewed the proposal to approve offering additional English classes at the High School. Mrs. Peska explained that this proposal would provide more options for students to choose from. Mrs. Peska also explained that the addition of these courses would not result in a requirement of additional credits of the current curriculum. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to accept the new class proposals for the High School English Department as presented. All Ayes.

Mr. Jahr presented the athletic sharing agreements to the Board. Mr. Jahr explained how the sharing works for each of the activities that was presented and discussed how sharing impacts each program. Mr. Jahr explained the financial process for sharing agreements stating that each District is responsible for costs associated with the shared programs. Mr. Jahr reviewed the BEDS enrollment count that is used to calculate state classification for High School Activities.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to accept the sharing agreement with East Marshall CSD for Boys & Girls Soccer as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to accept the sharing agreement with Marshalltown CSD for Bowling as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to table a decision on sharing baseball and softball with Meskwaki CSD until more information can be gathered on how sharing would impact the District’s current program. Ayes: Lekin, Werner, Dolezal, Wiese. Nays: Tyynismaa. The motion carried.

Mr. Jahr, Mr. McAdoo, and Mr. Denham presented two quotes for the purchase of a Gator ATV. The first quote was from USS Polaris for $27,775.09 and the second quote was from John Deere for $32,500. The Board asked if there was an option to add on a mower to the Gator. It was determined that a mower could be added and the estimated cost to add a mower feature was roughly $4,500.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the purchase of a Gator ATV from USS Polaris for $27,775.09 with the option to add on the mower feature. All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the School Budget Review Committee application request for modified supplemental amount of $243,524 for the At Risk and Drop Out Prevention Program. All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the resolution ordering an election on the issuance of $15,000,000 General Obligation Bonds for renovation of the Iowa Juvenile Home into a Middle School.

Dr. Smith provided a COVID update to the Board. Dr. Smith reviewed an email that had been sent out to staff regarding the latest on the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard. Dr. Smith shared that the Supreme Court recently heard arguments around the OSHA Standard and would be making a ruling in the near future. Dr. Smith then shared that the Iowa Division of Labor had came out late the prior week stating that they would not enforce the OSHA standard. Dr. Smith stated that the District would continue the current practice of not enforcing the OSHA standard based on the current stance of the Iowa Division of Labor as well as legal counsel advice. Dr. Smith stated the District would continue to monitor the situation as things unfold and a Supreme Court Decision is made.

Motion by Werner, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Regular Session on January 24, 2022 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Curriculum Director Samantha Peska, Student Council Sponsor Emily Chyma, and several members of the community.

Dr. Smith informed the Board that an additional resignation had come in earlier in the day and asked to have it added to the Personnel section of the agenda. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the revised agenda as presented.  All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the January 10, 2022 regular meeting; Bills for payment as presented; Financial Statements as presented; MOU with iJag for the 2022-2023 school year; NHS Valentine’s Flower Fundraiser, Student Council Trivia Night Fundraiser, Student Council Dance Ticket Fundraiser; Lauderdale Family donation for $100,983; Agreement with ICN for Internet Network Services; and a contract with Halverson Photography for the 2022-23 school year. All Ayes.

Public Comments – None.

Student Council Sponsor Emily Chyma gave an update to the Board on upcoming Student Council Activities. Ms. Chyma informed the Board of the following fundraisers: Trivia night fundraiser on February 25 to raise funds for overnight bags for foster students and a Sweatpants dance on February 26. Ms. Chyma also stated that the Student Council is looking to put on a multicultural fair this school year but no date has been set.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. 

Hires: Kylee Hoskins – Behavior Intervention Specialist; Dale Peterson – Bus Driver; Jennifer Nunez – Elementary Preschool/Special Ed Para.

Resignations: Hannah Bjornsen – Food Service; Andrea Rutledge – MS Softball Coach; Cory Lang – TICU Teacher

Volunteers: Makayla Backen – HS Girls Soccer

Officials: Donald Anderson – Varsity Volleyball; Dan Rhine – Varsity Volleyball; Gregory Davies – Varsity Volleyball; Deidra Mohr – 9^th Grade & Varsity Volleyball; David Mohr – Varsity Volleyball; Jordan Bliel – Varsity Wrestling; Justin Brand – Varsity Wrestling; Bob Yilek – Varsity Wrestling; Andrew May – Varsity Wrestling

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to table the baseball and softball sharing agreement with Meskwaki CSD until numbers from Meskwaki could be obtained. All Ayes.

Dr. Smith provided the Board with information on an overnight trip to the UNI Festival of Bands for the Honor Band. Motion by Wiese, second by Tyynismaa to approve the Honor Band overnight trip to the UNI Festival of Bands. All Ayes.

Mrs. Peska reviewed a proposal to offer an additional Spanish class at the High School. Mrs. Peska explained that the new course will be more of a language arts class for students who already speak Spanish. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to accept the new class proposal for the High School Spanish Department as presented. All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to appoint Mandy Lekin to serve on the Tama County Conference Board as a representative for South Tama County Community School District for the 2021-2022 year. All Ayes.

Randy Denham presented a bid from School Bus Sales for the purchase of two gas buses for $114,600 each. Mr. Denham explained that bids had also been received from Hoglund Bus Company for two gas buses at $113,899 each. Mr. Denham explained the District had had been informed by Hoglund after the bid had been received that parts needed for the Hoglund Bus Bid would not be available for several more months. Due to the delay in getting the buses and the minimal difference in the bid costs, Mr. Denham recommended moving forward with purchasing two gas buses from School Bus Sales at $114,600 each. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the purchase of two gas buses from School Bus Sales for $114,600 each. All Ayes.

Dr. Smith provided the most recent COVID dashboard numbers to the Board. Dr. Smith reviewed an email recently sent out to staff with frequently asked COVID questions. The Board and Dr. Smith discussed different scenarios and options if the District were to potentially have to close due to high COVID numbers or staff shortages.

Dr. Smith provided an update to the Board on the upcoming community forums for the Middle School Bond vote with the first meeting taking place on January 27 at 7:00 p.m. in the Middle School Library. The Board discussed trying to get as much community engagement in these meetings as possible and also discussed options to possibly record the meetings. The Board discussed the current agreements in place with Invision Architects for pre-referendum services. The Board stated that they would like to start a Request for Proposal process to look at selecting an architect for the Middle School project.

Vice President Tyynismaa left the meeting at 6:01 p.m.

Mr. Denham reviewed the upcoming 2022-2023 budget timeline with the Board and stated the budget will be discussed at the Board level over the next several meetings. Mr. Denham sought feedback from the Board regarding the budget.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:16 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Special Session on February 2, 2022 at the Administration Office, Tama, Iowa at 7:32 a.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, and Darvin Graham from Tama-Toledo News Chronicle.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the agenda. All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to accept the resignation of Dr. Jared Smith as Superintendent of South Tama County Community School District effective June 30, 2022. All Ayes.

The Board discussed next steps for finding the next Superintendent for the District. The stated they would like to utilize the services of a search firm to assist with the process. The Board reviewed proposals received from Grundmeyer Leader Search and EdWise, LLC and discussed the prior experience the District had with utilizing a search firm for the hiring of the Superintendent. The Board stated they would like to move forward with Grundmeyer Leader Search and would look to formally approve an agreement at the February 7, 2022 Regular Board meeting.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 7:39 a.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Regular Session on February 7, 2022 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: Penny Tyynismaa. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Activities Director Anthony Jahr, Seth Koch, and several members of the community.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the agenda as presented.  All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the January 24, 2022 regular meeting and February 2, 2022 special meeting; Bills for payment as presented; and an early graduation request for Kyrien DeSorbo. All Ayes.

Vice President Tyynismaa joined the meeting through Google Hangouts at 5:01 p.m.

Public Comments – None.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. 

Resignations: Miranda Moen – HS Science Teacher effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year; Maria Cervantes – Partnership Para

Officials: Brando Dufoe – HS Boys Wrestling; Andrew May – HS Boys Wrestling

Sites Council Member (3 Year Term): Sarah Dostal

After School Program for 2021-2022 Second Semester: Approve list of teachers at $30/hour and paras at their regular hourly rate as presented.

Activities Director Anthony Jahr presented information and requested permission for students to attend an overnight trip for the International Thespian Fesival in Bloomington, IN from June 20-24. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the overnight trip for the International Thespian Festival in Bloomington, IN from June 20-24. All Ayes.

Mr. Jahr shared the potential number of students from Meskwaki CSD that would be participating in baseball and softball if the Board were to approve a sharing agreement. Head Baseball Coach Seth Koch provided an estimated number of current students that are expected to play baseball and softball this spring. Motion by Werner, second by Dolezal to approve sharing baseball and softball with Meskwaki CSD for the 2021-2022 season. Ayes: Lekin, Tyynismaa, Werner, Dolezal. Nays: Wiese. The motion carried.  

Randy Denham presented the agreement from Grundmeyer Leardership Search for services related to the search for a new Superintendent to replace Dr. Smith. Mr. Denham explained the costs of the services provided would be based on the amount of services the Board would utilize and would not be more than $12,981.60. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve an agreement with Grundmeyer Leadership Search to assist with the search for a new Superintendent for a max amount of $12,981.60. All Ayes.

Mr. Denham provided information on the 2022-2023 budget and explained that the District would be on the budget guarantee for the 2022-2023 budget year due to the decline in enrollment last fall along with the low amount of State Supplemental Aid. Mr. Denham explained that the budget guarantee is fully funded through property tax. Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve to levy property tax for fiscal year 2022-2023 for the regular program budget adjustment as allowed under section 257.14, Code of Iowa. All Ayes.

The Board discussed that the second February Board meeting had been moved to Tuesday, February 22 due to no school originally on February 21. The Board discussed whether to have the second February Board meeting on February 21 or 22 and decided to stay with February 22. The Board will resume meeting on the first and third Monday of each month for their meetings starting in March.  

Dr. Smith shared a proposed 2022-2023 calendar with the Board. The Board discussed the option of including a spring break in the calendar and stated that when the committee meets to discuss the 2023-2024 school calendar that two options be provided: one with a spring break and one without.

Dr. Smith provided the most recent COVID dashboard numbers to the Board. The Board discussed the guidelines staff and students must follow when they test positive. Dr. Smith brought up the idea of potentially giving two days of hazard pay for all staff. The Board asked administration to calculate the amounts and to bring that data back to the Board at a future meeting. Mr. Denham shared and reviewed the District’s ESSER fund budget with the Board.  

Dr. Smith provided an update to the Board on the upcoming community forums for the Middle School Bond vote with the next meeting taking place virtually on February 10 at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Smith recapped the last community meeting held and stated that there had been a lot of positive feedback from the visuals that were shared. The Board discussed the possibility of doing satellite voting for the March 1 bond vote and stated that they would like to see an additional informational mailer go out to the community closer to the vote. Dr. Smith stated that he will continue to push information out to the community. Mr. Denham provided a sample Request for Proposal (RFP) for architect services as was previously requested by the Board. The Board reviewed the RFP and gave the administration the go ahead to move forward with sending the RFP for architect services out to the list of architects that was provided.

Mr. Denham reviewed a list of Board policies that need to be reviewed annually by the Board and explained that all policies must be reviewed by the Board at least once every five years. The Board discussed the process to use going forward for review of Board policies.

Mr. Denham provided an update on the search for a new Superintendent and shared a list of dates for the Board to meet with Grundmeyer Leadership Search. Mr. Denham will coordinate the dates given by the Board with Dr. Grundmeyer to set up a work session to discuss the Superintendent search in the near future.  

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:37 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

WORK SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in Work Session on February 17, 2022 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:30 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Beth Wiese. Present through Google Hangouts: Elizabeth Dolezal. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Randy Denham, Dr. Trent Grundmeyer and Roger Wilcox from Grundmeyer Leader Services, Darvin Graham from Tama-Toledo News Chronicle, and Marilyn Rippy.

Dr. Trent Grundmeyer and Roger Wilcox from Grundmeyer Leader Services provided an update to the Board on the number of applicants received so far for the Superintendent position. Dr. Grundmeyer gave a presentation to the Board that walked through the search process the Board will go through over the next month and half. Dr. Grundmeyer reviewed a community stakeholder survey with the Board that will be sent out on February 18 and will close on March 1. The Board discussed a tentative timeline for the search process. The Board set up future meeting dates on March 10 and March 22 to screen potential candidates and finalize interview committee groups. The Board and Dr. Grundmeyer tentatively set March 29 as the day that final candidates will be interviewed as long as schedules and facility availability allow.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:45 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Regular Session on February 22, 2022 at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Curriculum Director Samantha Peska, Activities Director Anthony Jahr, and several members of the community.

Dr. Smith requested that an additional resignation and a transfer request that were both received after the Board Packet was sent out be added to the Personnel portion of the agenda. Dr. Smith also requested that a rental agreement with the Reining Center for Superintendent interviews on March 29 be added to the consent agenda. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the agenda with the additional changes as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the February 7, 2022 regular meeting; Bills for payment and financial statements as presented; an agreement with the Iowa Cubs for the South Tama baseball team to play at Principal Park on June 22, 2022; and a rental agreement with the Reining Center for Superintendent interviews on March 29. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – Sabrina Vest, Chad Vest, Amanda Timm, and Jim Little separately addressed the Board about a recent poem performance that was done at a high school pep rally. Each of the individuals expressed their concerns to the Board about the nature of the poem and how they felt that some of the content to the performance was offensive and should not have been done in school. Concerns of bullying and harassment due to the poem performance were also brought to the Board.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.  

Resignations: Patricia Gomez – MS Para

New Hires: Bridget Diveney – Costumer; Chelsea Ahrens – Head MS Softball Coach

Transfers: Rashell Mendoza – From HS Special Ed Para to HS 1:1 Para; Keely Upah - From Kindergarten to Preschool Teacher

Volunteers: Quentin Moen – HS Driving and Supervision

Officials: Benjamin Ogle – HS Varsity Boys Wrestling, Nick Willenborg – HS Varsity Baseball, Bill Boyd – HS Varsity Baseball

Curriculum Director Samantha Peska presented information to the Board requesting approval for two special ed students to get their certificate of completion per the recommendation of the students IEP teams. Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the two special ed students to receive a certificate of completion as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Activities Director Anthony Jahr presented information to the Board requesting the addition of Girls Wrestling as a District sponsored activity starting with the 2022-2023 school year. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the addition of Girls Wrestling as a District sponsored activity starting with the 2022-2023 school year. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Randy Denham presented pay application #8 from Midwest Tennis and Track in the amount of $27,910.74 and the list of change orders totaling $5,417.22 for the HS Tennis Court Project. Mr. Denham explained that the project is 99% complete and that the change orders would need to be formally approved by the Board. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve pay application #8 from Midwest Tennis and Track in the amount of $27,910.74 and the list of change orders totaling $5,417.22 as presented. Ayes: Lekin, Tyynismaa, Dolezal, Wiese. Nays: Werner. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 406.4 – Licensed Employee Compensation for Extra Duty; 409.1 Employee Vacation & Holidays; 412.1 – Classified Employee Compensation; 501.5 – Attendance Center Assignment; 505.5 – Graduation Requirements. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham provided information on the 2022-2023 budget and explained that the District’s instructional support levy would expire at the end of the 2021-2022 year. Mr. Denham outlined the steps the Board would need to take to renew the instructional support levy. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the resolution for the District to participate in the Instructional Support Program and to set a public hearing on the Instructional Support Levy for March 21, 2022. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Dr. Smith provided the most recent COVID dashboard numbers to the Board and reviewed county positivity rates. Dr. Smith and Mr. Denham presented information on potential hazard pay for all STC employees that would be paid out of ESSER funds. The total cost of two days of hazard pay for all STC staff would be $114,559.54. The Board directed Dr. Smith and Mr. Denham to bring this information to the next Board meeting to be formally approved.

Dr. Smith provided an update to the Board on the upcoming MS Project Bond vote with the next community meeting taking place this evening at the high school after the conclusion of the Board meeting. The Board discussed the various voting locations available and encouraged community members to get out and vote. Mr. Denham provided an update on the architect RFP process stating that a preconference and walk through of the Juvenile Home Facility would be taking place on Thursday, February 24, 2022 at 10:30 a.m. Mr. Denham stated bids would be due on March 9, 2022. President Lekin gave a recap of the Governor’s visit to the Juvenile Home on February 18.

Mr. Denham provided an update on the search for a new Superintendent and shared that a community input survey was shared out on February 18 and that the survey would close on March 1. Mr. Denham reviewed upcoming dates with the Board. Special closed session meetings will take place on March 10 and March 22 to screen the applicants and narrow the field down. Final candidate interviews will take place on March 29 at the Reining Center.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:15 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

PUBLIC HEARING REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on March 7, 2022 for a Public Hearing on the 2022-2023 School Calendar at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham and several members of the community.

Motion by Dolezal second by Tyynismaa to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing – 2022-2023 School Calendar: President Lekin opened the Public Hearing for 2022-2023 School Calendar at 5:00 p.m. President Lekin asked for public comments. Hearing none, President Lekin asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to close the Public Hearing at 5:01 p.m.  All Ayes.

The Regular Session was called to order at 5:01 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese.  Members Absent - None.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Middle School Principal Ben Adams, Roger Wilcox from Grundmeyer Leader Services, and several members of the community.

President Lekin requested to move the Superintendent Stakeholder survey results up to the top of the agenda. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the agenda with the changes as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Roger Wilcox from Grundmeyer Leader Services reviewed the Superintendent Search Stakeholder Survey results with the Board. Mr. Wilcox presented information to the Board on next steps in the Superintendent search process.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the February 17, 2022 work session and February 22, 2022 regular meeting; Bills for payment as presented; AEA Purchasing agreement for the 2022-2023 school year; and a student teaching agreement with the University of Northern Iowa for the 2022-2023 school year. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – Marilyn Rippy, Luis Avalos, Itzel Herrera, Eric Rosario, Riley Grimes, and Allison Graham separately addressed the Board about a recent poem performance that was done at a high school pep rally. Each of the individuals expressed their support of the performance and shared their thoughts about the importance of the poem reflecting some of the issues that they face in their everyday lives.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.  

Resignations: Lon Wilkerson – 8^th Grade Boys Basketball Coach; Heather Keen – Special Ed Para; Matthew Beatty – Elementary ELL Teacher, Middle School Football, and Middle School Girls Track

New Hires: Margarita Moreno – Elementary Food Service

Volunteers: Nathan Doran – High School Track

Officials: David Lee – Cross Country

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the 2022-2023 School Calendar as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Dr. Smith and Middle School principal Ben Adams presented a plan to realign Middle School TAG and Writing positions. The plan will involve splitting the current Middle School TAG and Writing position into two separate positions. Some duties will be realigned to an Interventionist position and an open Para position will not be replaced to open up for the new Writing position. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the realignment of the Middle School TAG and Writing positions as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Dr. Smith and Mr. Denham presented the District’s plan to pay a $1,000 retention bonus and two days of hazard pay to all staff in good standing utilizing the District’s ESSER funds. Mr. Denham explained that the $1,000 retention bonus would be for all staff that do not qualify for the $1,000 retention bonus plan. Mr. Denham explained that the total cost to the District for the $1,000 retention bonus and the two days of hazard pay would be roughly $256,000. The $1,000 retention bonus will be paid on the March payroll and the two days of hazard pay will be paid on the April payroll. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the use of District ESSER funds for a $1,000 retention bonus and two days of hazard pay as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve a resolution to set a public hearing for March 21, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary on the proposed issuance of approximately $16,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services, and Use Tax Revenue and Refunding Bonds. All Ayes: The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the engagement letter with Piper Sandler for the issuance of Sales Tax Bonds. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the contract with Piper Sandler for the issuance of General Obligation Bonds. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Tyynismaa to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 505.8 Parental Involvement; 505.8R1 Parent and Family Engagement Regulation; 600 Goals and Objectives Educational Program; 601.1 School Calendar. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 406.4 Licensed Employee Compensation for Extra Duty; 409.1 Employee Vacation & Holidays; 412.1 Classified Employee Compensation; 501.5 Attendance Center Assignment; 505.5 Graduation Requirements. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Dr. Smith asked the Board if they would like to continue to have COVID/Vaccine update as a standing discussion item for Board meetings. The Board stated that this topic can be removed and will only bring back going forward if necessary.

Mr. Denham presented the canvas of votes for the March 1 Middle School Project Bond Election. Mr. Denham reported that the measure passed with 83% approval. Dr. Smith provided an update on the architect RFP process.

Mr. Denham provided an updated timeline of the Superintendent Search process. The Board will meet in a special closed session on March 10 to begin looking through the applications.

President Lekin thanked everyone in attendance for their comments earlier in the meeting. The Board expressed their support of the students to keep doing what they are doing. The Board also explained that they are listening to both sides of the issue and are taking the necessary steps to seriously look into any complaints and concerns that are brought forth. Dr. Smith provided an update to the Board on the steps the District has taken to respond to the recent concerns of the speech performance at the high school. Dr. Smith shared that the District had met with legal counsel and it had been determined that no policies or rules had been broken by the speech performance. Dr. Smith shared with the Board checks and balances that will be put in place moving forward with any performance that may be considered controversial or uncomfortable for students and staff. The Board expressed their desire to continue to support extracurricular activities as long as students stay within the guidelines set forth by rules and policies. The Board spoke about the importance of differentiating that some extracurricular activities do not have as strict of limitations as classroom activities. The Board stated that if students are being pressured or harassed that they hope those students will bring that to the attention of staff so that it can be properly addressed. 

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 6:35 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Special Session on March 10, 2022 at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:02 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Board Secretary Randy Denham and Roger Wilcox from Grundmeyer Leader Services.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the agenda. All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to go into closed session pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session. All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to come out of closed session at 6:42 p.m.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:42 p.m  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

PUBLIC HEARING & SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met on March 14, 2022 for a Public Hearing on Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Levy Program at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith and Board Secretary Randy Denham.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the agenda. All Ayes.

Public Hearing – Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Levy Program: President Lekin opened the Public Hearing for the Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Levy Program at 5:00 p.m. President Lekin asked for public comments. Hearing none, President Lekin asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to close the Public Hearing at 5:01 p.m. All Ayes.

The Special Session was called to order at 5:01 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present: Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Members Absent – None. Quorum present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith and Board Secretary Randy Denham.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the agenda. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Daniel Kass – High School Math Teacher; Samantha Prior – High School Special Education Para

New Hires: Leah Founa – Elementary Counselor; Todd Dale – Head 8^th Grade Boys Track Coach; Levi Klopping – Assistant Middle School Boys Soccer Coach

Transfers: Bailey Barnes from Elementary Full Time Sub to Kindergarten; Katelyn Gettle from Kindergarten to 3^rd Grade

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the resolution to continue participation in the Instructional Support Levy Program. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 5:04 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

PUBLIC HEARING REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on March 21, 2022 for a Public Hearing on the Proposed Issuance of Approximately $16,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services, and Use Tax Revenue and Refunding Bonds at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa second by Werner to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing – President Lekin opened the Public Hearing for the Proposed Issuance of Approximately $16,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services, and Use Tax Revenue and Refunding Bonds at 5:00 p.m. President Lekin asked for public comments. Hearing none, President Lekin asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to close the Public Hearing at 5:01 p.m.  All Ayes.

The Regular Session was called to order at 5:01 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese.  Members Absent - None.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Maintenance Director Steve McAdoo, Activities Director Anthony Jahr, Mark Becker from Mark J. Becker & Associates, Nathan Compton from ISG Architects, and several members of the community.

Dr. Smith requested to remove the Proposal to Add Non-Voting Student Members to the Board Discussion Item due to the students requesting more time to prepare. Dr. Smith also requested to add a couple additional hires and a resignation that came in after the Board Packet had been sent out. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the agenda with the changes as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the March 7, 2022 regular meeting, March 10, 2022 special session, and March 14, 2022 special session; Bills for payment and Financial Statements as presented; Tennis Fundraiser selling burgers to raise funds for the general expenses of the tennis program; student teaching agreement with Morningside University for the 2022-2023 school year; and a 2022-2023 Senior Year Plus agreement with Iowa Valley Community College. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – Amy Stotts thanked the Board for making sure that public comments were kept to the two minute minimum as stated in the Board agendas. Dixie Forcht asked the Board to table the Little Theater Upgrades agenda item so that she could meet with Mr. McAdoo and Mr. Jahr to discuss the upgrades further.

Mark Becker from Mark J. Becker and Associates presented the results of the Assessment of the District’s current insurance plans that was requested by the District earlier in the school year. Mr. Becker gave an outline of the District’s current insurance plans and options for next steps.

Director of Finance, Randy Denham presented the 2022-2023 Certified Budget to the Board. Mr. Denham presented the budget with an overall tax rate of $14.45 which is $0.64 lower than the prior year. Mr. Denham explained the drop was due to the Bond vote for the Middle School project where the voters approved to drop the $2.70 tax levy down to $2.06. Mr. Denham recommended setting a public hearing for the 2022-2023 Certified Budget for Monday, April 4, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Nick Wheeler – High School Night Custodian

New Hires: Carley Bolhuis – Elementary Special Ed Para; Linda Puumala – High School Activities Secretary

Transfers: Steve Bearden – From First Grade to Elementary ELL Teacher; April Van Dee – From Middle School Special Ed Para to Middle School Library Media Aide; Deborah Price – From Middle School Part Time Special Ed Para to Middle School Full Tie Special Ed Para

Volunteers: Joe Miller – High School Boys Soccer

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to table approval of the High School Little Theater upgrades to a future meeting. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Dr. Smith provided an update to the Board on the process for selecting an architect for the Middle School Project moving forward. Dr. Smith reported that several RFP’s had been received and that a District Committee consisting of Board Members and Administration had interviewed Invision, OPN Architects, and ISG Architects on March 15. After careful consideration the Committee recommended that the District move forward on the Middle School Project with ISG architects due to their familiarity with the Iowa Juvenile Home site as well as their bid coming in at 6.25% of construction costs which was lower than the other two firms. Board member Dolezal requested that the agreement be changed from 24 months of service coverage to 30 months. Nathan Compton from ISG Architects said that this modification to the agreement could be made. Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the contract with ISG Architects with the changes presented to move forward with the Middle School Project. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to set the public hearing for the 2022-2023 Certified Budget for Monday, April 4, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the resolution supporting the proposed issuance of approximately $16,500,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services, and Use Tax Revenue and Refunding Bonds. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham presented the resolution authorizing the redemption of the outstanding General Bond Obligations. Mr. Denham explained that this resolution would authorize the District to pay off the remaining $405,000 for the General Obligation Bonds for the Elementary. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the Resolution Authorizing the Redemption of Outstanding General Obligation School Refunding Bonds. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham presented the 2022-2023 insurance renewal for the District. Mr. Denham recommended to move the District outside of the Mercer Trust and to change the District Benefits Consultant from Mercer to Mark J. Becker and Associates effective July 1, 2022. Mr. Denham explained that this switch will save the District at least $40,000 per year from the start with the potential for increased savings as the District works with Mr. Becker and his team to improve the District’s insurance offerings and plan design. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the 2022-2023 insurance renewal to move the District out of the Trust with Mercer at an increase of $137,581. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Tyynismaa to terminate the Benefits Consultant agreement with Mercer effective June 30, 2022 with notice being given to Mercer by April 1, 2022 to comply with the 90-day termination notice in the current agreement. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the Benefits Consultant agreement with Mark J. Becker and Associates effective July 1, 2022. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 605.4 Technology & Instructional Materials; 606.1 Class Size; 606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 505.8 Parental Involvement; 505.8R1 Parent and Family Engagement Regulation; 600 Goals and Objectives Educational Program; 601.1 School Calendar. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Activities Director Anthony Jahr presented a proposal to the Board to pause Varsity Softball for the 2022 season due to low numbers. Mr. Jahr explained that the girls would still play a Level 2 schedule and would potentially play a Level 3 schedule depending on Middle School numbers. Mr. Jahr stated that the District would look to add in other non-conference games where possible and that this pause would only be for this season. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to pause the Varsity Softball program for the 2022 season as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Jahr gave an update on the District’s Athletic Training Services. Mr. Jahr explained that the District’s current athletic trainer had to terminate the agreement due to a family relocation. Mr. Jahr reviewed the different options that are being explored to provide athletic training services for the upcoming spring and summer activities as well as options going into next school year.  

Dr. Smith provided an update on the Middle School Project. Board Member Dolezal provided an update from the most recent Toledo City Council meeting where there was discussion around the Middle School project. Dr. Smith stated that a group consisting of Board members, District Administration, ISG Architects, and representatives from the City of Toledo and Tama County Economic development would be meeting on March 30 to discuss timelines and next steps.  

Mr. Denham provided an update on the Superintendent Search. Mr. Denham stated the Board would be having a closed session on March 22, 2022 to interview and screen candidates. Final candidates will be determined after that meeting with the final interviews taking place on March 29, 2022 from 4:00-7:00 p.m.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 6:59 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Special Session on March 22, 2022 at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 4:00 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Board Secretary Randy Denham and Roger Wilcox from Grundmeyer Leader Services.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the agenda. All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to go into closed session pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the professional competency of an indivudal whose appointment, hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session. All Ayes.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to come out of closed session at 7:53 p.m.

Motion by Werner, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 7:53 p.m  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the South Tama County Community School District met in Special Session on March 29, 2022 at the Reinig Center, Toledo, Iowa at 4:05 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present: Board Secretary Randy Denham.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the agenda. All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to go into closed session pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered when necessary to prevent needless and irreparable injury to that individual’s reputation and that individual requests a closed session. All Ayes.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to come out of closed session at 7:15 p.m.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to adjourn the special meeting at 7:15 p.m. All Ayes.

Immediately following the special session, the Board went into Exempt Session per Iowa Code 21.9 to discuss strategy in matters relating to employment conditions of employees not covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement. Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to extend an offer for the position of Superintendent effective July 1, 2022 to one of the Superintendent Finalists interviewed earlier in the evening. Exempt session adjourned at 9:13 p.m.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

PUBLIC HEARING AND REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on April 4, 2022 for a Public Hearing on the 2022-2023 Certified Budget at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Absent: Clint Werner. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa second by Dolezal to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing – President Lekin opened the Public Hearing for the 2022-2023 Certified Budget at 5:00 p.m. President Lekin asked for public comments. Hearing none, President Lekin asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to close the Public Hearing at 5:01 p.m.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

The Regular Session was called to order at 5:01 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese.  Members Absent: Clint Werner.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Dr. Smith requested to add two resignations to the Personnel Action Item on the Agenda. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the agenda with the changes presented.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes from the March 21, 2022 regular session, March 22, 2022 special session, and March 29, 2022 special session; bills for payment as presented; agreement with Total Rehab for Athletic training services for the April 26 track meet, and a library software agreement with Follett.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – None

The Board discussed the current staff openings and different options for filling those positions moving forward. The Board requested that Administration gather some data to bring back to a future Board meeting for further discussion. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Andrea Rutledge – Middle School 7^th Grade Girls Basketball Coach; Brian Trester – TICU Teacher; Delonda Pushetonequa – High School Special Education Teacher; Heather Wanatee – Middle School 8^th Grade Girls Basketball Coach; Abby Swiatly – First Grade Teacher; Anthony Jahr – High School Assistant Principal/Activities Director.

Contracts: Jennifer Gross – Partnership Center Special Education Para; Sidney Barrett – Kindergarten Teacher.

Transfers: Cory Kroeger – From Sub Bus Driver to PM Route Bus Driver; Cody Taylor – From Shared High School/Elementary Custodian to High School Custodian

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the two-year contract for John Cain as Superintendent starting July 1, 2022 with a 2022-2023 salary of $160,000. Roll Call Vote: Lekin-Aye, Tyynismaa-Aye, Dolezal-Aye, Wiese-Aye. The motion carried.  Mr. Denham stated that Board member Werner was unable to attend to the meeting due to other commitments but that Board Member Werner had requested that his vote of approval for the new Superintendent Contract be recorded in the minutes.                           

Mr. Denham presented two bids to repair/replace a sewer line that runs from the high school to Highway 63 that was found to be sagging following a sewer line backup on Highway 63 several weeks ago. Mr. Denham presented a bid from Hardon’s for $7,995 and a bid from Scharnweber’s for $9,200. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the bid from Hardon’s for $7,995 to repair/replace the sewer line at the High School.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the resolution authorizing the issuance of not to exceed $15,000,000 General Obligation Bonds and levying a tax for the payment thereof. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the engagement letter with Ahlers & Cooney as bond counsel for the issuance of General Obligation Bonds. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the 2022-2023 Certified Budget as presented with a total tax rate of $14.45. Roll Call Vote: Lekin – Aye, Tyynismaa – Aye, Dolezal – Aye, Wiese – Aye. The motion passed.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 703.1 Budget Planning; 707.2 Treasurer’s Annual Report. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 605.4 Technology and Instructional Materials; 606.1 Class Size; and 606.6 Insufficient Classroom Space.

Board President Lekin recapped a meeting that was held on March 30^th with representatives from the City of Toledo, ISG Architects, and District Administration on next steps for the Middle School Project. Dr. Smith stated that this group will meet again on April 19^th and that the new Superintendent, John Cain, will be participating in the meeting as well.

The Board discussed that the next regularly scheduled Board Meeting is Monday, April 18, 2022. Since this is the day after Easter the Board stated that they would move the next regularly scheduled Board meeting to Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary. The Board also looked ahead and will at this time plan to have regular Board meetings on the following dates: May 2, 2022; May 16, 2022; June 6, 2022; June 21, 2022; and July 11, 2022.  

Motion by Wiese, second by Tyynismaa to adjourn the meeting at 5:53 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on April 19, 2022 for a Regular Session at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Clint Werner, and Elizabeth Dolezal. Absent: Penny Tyynismaa and Beth Wiese. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Curriculum Director Samantha Peska, High School Principal Mark Groteluschen, John Cain, Tim Verheyen and Nathan Compton from ISG Architects, and several members of the community.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the agenda. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Werner, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the April 4, 2022 meeting; Bills for payment and Financial Statements as presented; 2022-2023 agreement with Tanager place for providing therapist services; and an agreement with MTI Production for license rights to musical production of Freaky Friday. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Vice President Tyynismaa joined the meeting through Google Hangouts at 5:01 p.m.

Public Comments – None

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Shane Manful – Technical Director for the Play and Musical; Ellen Moran – High School Special Education Teacher

New Hires: Andrea Rutledge – Head 8^th Grade Girls Basketball Coach; Jerrod Bridgewater – High School Math Teacher; Seth Koch – Head 8^th Grade Football Coach; Emma Jones – 1^st Grade Teacher; Emeri Krueger – 1^st Grade Teacher; Steve Chyma – High School Assistant Softball Coach

Transfers: Joe Miller – From High School Health Teacher to 7-12 Special Education Teacher Partnership Center/TICU; Alison Vavra – From High School At Risk Liaison to High School At Risk Counselor

Officials – Terence Moriarty – Middle School Girls Soccer; Sawyer Loger – Middle School Girls Soccer; David Lee – High School Boys Track & Field

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the Support Staff, Administrative, and Other Salaried Positions wage and benefit increases for the 2022-2023 school year as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the 2020-2021 financial statement audit as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Werner, second by Dolezal to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 707.5 Internal Controls and 710.1 School Nutrition Program. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 703.1 Budget Planning and 707.2 Treasurer’s Annual Report. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Curriculum Director Samantha Peska provided an update to the Board on the realignment of TICU positions for the 2022-2023 school year.

The Board discussed the open High School Assistant Principal/Activities Director Position and different options for the position moving forward. The Board determined that more information requested additional data related to the position from Administration. The Board stated that they would hold a Special Meeting on Wednesday, April 27 at 5:00 to discuss the matter further.  

Dr. Smith reviewed Board Policy 401.06 Employee Resignation with the Board and discussed how long to give certified staff to turn in resignations.

President Lekin and Dr. Smith recapped the Middle School project from earlier in the day with ISG Architects. Tim Veheyen and Nathan Compton from ISG architects shared a timeline for the project with the Board and updated the Board on the current planning and programming phase for the project. Mr. Verheyen and Mr. Compton also provided updates on the work that they have done thus far with the City of Toledo with getting survey information on the Juvenile Home property. The Board discussed utilizing a Construction Manager or General Contractor approach to the project. The Board briefly reviewed potential new legislation that would allow Districts to utilize a Construction Manager At Risk approach for construction projects. The Board requested Administration to gather more information to bring back to a future Board meeting so that further discussions on which approach for the Middle School Project should be utilized.  

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 6:37 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

SPECIAL SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on April 27, 2022 for a Special Session at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, John Cain, and several staff and community members.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to approve the agenda. All Ayes. The motion carried.

President Lekin opened the meeting asking if there was anyone in attendance that wished to provide feedback on the open Assistant High School Principal/Activities Director position.

George Kuhter addressed the Board stating that he feels the Assistant High School Principal and Activities Director should be split into two separate full-time positions.  

Deanna Zmolek read a letter to the Board that was signed by several high school staff members supporting the split of the Assistant High School Principal and Activities Director into two separate positions.

Middle School Principal addressed the Board with his support of splitting the Assistant High School Principal and Activities Director into two separate positions. Mr. Adams stated that he would like to see Scott Bolen maintain the current Middle School Activities Director duties that he currently has.

Middle School Assistant Principal/Activities Director Scott Bolen addressed the Board and echoed his support of what the others have said. Mr. Bolen shared his support of splitting the Assistant High School Principal and Activities Director into two separate positions. Mr. Bolen stated that he is very passionate about what he does at the Middle School and would like to see continued support from the new Activities Director.

Chelsea Ahrens addressed the Board and echoed her support of what others have said. Ms. Ahrens stated she has been the Assistant Activities Director the last two years and commended the individuals who have done the position over the years as she knows how difficult the position can be. Ms. Ahrens thanked the Board for their attention to this matter and for their willingness to listen to everyone’s feedback. Ms. Ahrens stated that she would like to see Mr. Bolen continue to be included in Middle School Activities.

Incoming Superintendent John Cain thanked everyone for sharing their passion and insight on this topic. Mr. Cain stated that during his conversations thus far with staff he thinks there is a clear need for an Assistant Principal at the High School and that the need for an Activities Director is as equally important. Mr. Cain expressed his support in looking for a full time Assistant Principal and a full time Activities Director.  

Dr. Smith reviewed with the Board that when the Assistant High School Principal/Activities Director was last filled that the District stated they would give it two years and then reevaluate to see where the needs were at and if there were changes that needed to be made. Dr. Smith stated that at this point he feels it would be a good move to split the High School Assistant Principal and Activities Director into two separate positions due to the addition of several activities and the needs of students coming out of COVID.

The Board discussed several options with how to move forward with and structure the positions. The Board discussed what duties would look like with splitting the Assistant Principal and Activities Director into two sperate positions and if the District could afford it. Mr. Denham confirmed that splitting Assistant Principal and Activities Director into two separate positions could fit into the budget. The Board discussed making a decision that would be the most beneficial to students.

Mr. Cain shared with the Board that if the Activities Director were to be split into a separate full-time position that it would have a K-12 focus and the position would work with local community youth programs to provide supports and opportunities for those students. The Board stated that the Assistant Activities Director duties would be absorbed into the full time Activities Director position if they were to move forward with splitting the positions.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to split the Assistant High School Principal and Activities Director into two separate full-time positions. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Tyynismaa to adjourn the meeting at 5:50 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on May 2, 2022 for a Regular Session at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Curriculum Director Samantha Peska, Buildings and Grounds Director Steve McAdoo, John Cain, Tim Verheyen and Nathan Compton from ISG Architects, and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the agenda. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the April 19, 2022 regular meeting and April 27, 2022 special meeting; Bills for payment as presented; and an early graduation request for Oscelor Tyon. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – Dixie Forcht thanked the Board for their service to the District.

Craig Knock expressed his support of utilizing a General Contractor delivery method for the upcoming Middle School project as felt it allow the District to better utilize local contractors.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Brittany Hammes – Preschool Teacher; Betty Garcia Bonilla – Elementary ELL Teacher

New Hires: Javier Brockschink – High School Science Teacher

Transfers: Jerrod Bridgewater – From Head 7^th Grade Boys Basketball Coach to Head 8^th Grade Boys Basketball Coach; Todd Dale – From Alternative High School Teacher at the Partnership Center to High School Health Teacher

Officials – Daniel Tuuri – Middle School Girls Soccer

Carrie Woerdman from Kading Homes presented to the Board about potential interest in purchasing 8-12 acres just to the west of the Elementary building to potentially put in 100-120 rental housing units.

Director of Curriculum Samantha Peska presented a proposed plan for new Elementary Literacy Curriculum. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve adoption of the Elementary Literacy Curriculum as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

The Board reviewed and discussed the following delivery method option for the Middle School Project: Design-Bid-Build; Construction Manager-Agency; and Construction Manager – At Risk. Tim Verheyen from ISG Archtects explained the advantages and disadvantages of each delivery option. Motion by Werner, second by Wiese to approve the Design-Bid-Build utilizing a General Contract as the delivery method for the Middle School Project. Ayes: Tyynismaa, Werner, Wiese. Nays: Dolezal. President Lekin abstained. The motion carried.  

Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to set a public hearing for the 2021-2022 Certified Budget Amendment for May 16, 2022 at 5:00 p.m. at the Elementary. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Director of Finance Randy Denham presented job descriptions and a proposed realignment of duties within the Business Office. Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the Business Office job descriptions and realignment of duties as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 711.3 Student Transportation; 711.4 Summer School Program Transportation Services; and 711.5 Transportation of Non-Resident and Non-Public School Students. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Tyynismaa to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 707.05 Internal Controls and 710.1 School Nutrition Program. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham informed the Board that Dr. Smith and himself would be meeting with Travis Squires from Piper Sandler on Friday, May 6^th to discuss next steps of bond financing for the Middle School Project and invited Board members to attend if able. Dr. Smith updated the Board that ISG would be meeting with Middle School Staff on Thursday, May 13^th to discuss next steps of design for the project. President Lekin and Board member Dolezal expressed that they would have liked more time to digest the information received on the delivery method for the middle school project but believe the District is going to deliver a great project.  

Dr. Smith thanked the Board for their service in observance of School Board Recognition Month. Dr. Smith presented each of the Board members with a certificate and a plant.  

The Board took a ten-minute break prior to entering closed session.

Board member Wiese left the meeting at 6:55 p.m. 

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to go into closed session at 6:58 p.m. pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) of the open meeting law to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the school district would have to pay or lower the price the board would receive for that property. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to come out of closed session at 7:24 p.m.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to adjourn the meeting at 7:25 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

PUBLIC HEARING AND REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on May 16, 2022 for a Public Hearing on the 2021-2022 Certified Budget Amendment at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, and Elizabeth Dolezal. Board Member Beth Wiese was present through Google Meet. Absent: None. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, and several members of the community.

Motion by Tyynismaa second by Dolezal to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.

Public Hearing – President Lekin opened the Public Hearing for the 2021-2022 Certified Budget Amendment at 5:00 p.m. Director of Finance Randy Denham reviewed the budget amendment for $850,000. Mr. Denham explained the amendment was due to ESSER expenditures and the timing of summer projects. Mr. Denham stated the budget amendment would have zero impact on property taxes. President Lekin asked for public comments. Hearing none, President Lekin asked for a motion to close the Public Hearing.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to close the Public Hearing at 5:01 p.m.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

The Regular Session was called to order at 5:01 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, Clint Werner, and Elizabeth Dolezal. Board Member Beth Wiese was present through Google Hangout.  Members Absent: None.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Director of Curriculum Samantha Peska, Buildings & Grounds Director Steve McAdoo, Travis Squires from Piper Sandler, John Cain, and several members of the community.

Dr. Smith requested to add four resignations to the Personnel Action Item and a late early graduation request to the Agenda. Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to approve the agenda with the changes presented.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the consent agenda approving the minutes from the May 2, 2022 regular session; bills for payment and financial statements as presented; early graduation requests for Terri Popelka and Mercedes Navarro; 2022-2023 agreement with the AEA to provide work experience for students; and a contract with Iowa Valley Community College for Summer College Credit Program.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – None

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the following personnel requests.  Ayes: Lekin, Tyynismaa, Dolezal, Wiese Nays: Werner. The motion carried.

Resignations: Kodi Hillman – Middle School Assistant Volleyball Coach; Emily Chyma – High School Student Council Advisor; Jessica Poush – Superintendent’s Secretary; Katie Murphy – High School English Teacher; Anna Scott – District Wide Sub Teacher; Elizabeth Koester – Elementary Teacher; Noah Schmelzer – High School Social Studies Teacher and High School Girls Soccer Coach, Megan Brown – 5^th Grade Teacher; Kylee Hoskins – Behavior Interventionist.

Contracts: Glory Meyer – High School English Teacher; Emily Chyma – High School Assistant Volleyball Coach; Seth Koch – Co-Head 9^th Grade Baseball Coach; Jerrod Bridgewater – Co-Head 9^th Grade Baseball Coach; Cristina Helmer – K-6 TICU Teacher; Jay Hoskey – Assistant 8^th Grade Football Coach; Andrea Rutledge – Middle School Assistant Softball Coach; Clayton Killian – Elementary/High School Custodian.

Transfers: Kelle Johanssen – From Middle School Special Ed Teacher to High School Special Ed Teacher; Brittani West – From part time Middle School Special Ed Para to full time Middle School Special Ed Para.

Officials: David Lee – High School Boys Track & Field; Tom Kemper – High School 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball; Wayne Ritscher – High School 9^th/10^th Girls Basketball; Eugene Ubben – High School 9^th/10^th Boys Basketball; Seth Koch – High School 9^th/10^th Boys Basketball.

List of 2022-2023 Instructional Coach Facilitator, Instructional Coach, Lead Teacher, and Mentor Teacher positions as presented.

Director of Finance Randy Denham and Travis Squires reviewed multiple options for financing of the Middle School Project. The options looked at selling bank qualified bonds, locking in interest rates, and when to sell bonds. Mr. Squires reviewed the pros and cons of each of the options presented. Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to move forward with selling a portion of the bonds now to lock in interest rates and selling the remaining debt later on in the year to take advantage of Bank Qualified bond issuances for the financing of the Middle School project. All Ayes. The motion carried.

The Board reviewed three quotes for the purchase of a new volleyball net system. The quotes were from Sports Imports for $12,434.50, BSN Sports for $8,089.45; and Volleyball USA for $15,078.20. Mr. Denham informed the Board that the Booster Club would be paying for $6,400 of the costs with the remainder being paid for by the District. Mr. Denham informed the Board that Activities Director, Anthony Jahr recommended moving forward with the quote from Sports Imports due to the higher quality of the system they provided. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to accept the quote from Sports Imports for $12,434.50 for a new volleyball net system. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the 2022-2023 bread bid from Pan-O-Gold as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve 2021-2022 Certified Budget Amendment as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham explained that the District recently paid off the remainder of the Elementary GO Bond debt and that part of this final payoff required a transfer of $405,000 from SAVE funds to the Debt Service Fund. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the transfer of $405,000 from SAVE funds to the Debt Service Fund for the payoff of the Elementary GO Bond debt. All Ayes. The motion passed.

Buildings and Grounds Director Steve McAdoo presented two quotes to seal the warehouse roof under the high school bleachers. The first quote was from A1 Coatings for $32,550 and the second quote was from Stanley Roofing for $41,773. Mr. McAdoo recommended the quote from A1 Coatings. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the quote from A1 Coatings for $32,550 to seal the warehouse roof under the high school bleachers. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. McAdoo presented two quotes to install an overhead door in the high school auto shop. The two quotes were from Modern Builders for $16,750 and Advance Builders for $18,222. Mr. McAdoo recommended the quote from Modern Builders. Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to approve the quote from Modern Builders for $16,750 to install an overhead door in the high school auto shop. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. McAdoo presented two quotes to replace the high school gym doors. The two quotes were from Doors Inc. for $50,587 and from Heartland for $79,357.41. Mr. McAdoo recommended the quote from Doors Inc. Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to approve the quote from Doors Inc. for $50,587 for the replacement of the high school gym doors. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. McAdoo presented two quotes to replace the softball bleachers. The two quotes were from TownsEnd for $26,825 and Heartland Seating for $30,480. Mr. McAdoo recommended the quote from Towns End for $26,825. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the quote from Towns End for $26,825 for the replacement of the softball bleachers. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the addition of the Upward Bound Program for the 2022-2023 school year as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Director of Curriculum Samantha Peska, presented a recommendation for the adoption of Middle School Literacy Curriculum to purchased with ESSER funds. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Werner to approve the adoption of the Middle School Literacy Curriculum as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mrs. Peska presented a recommendation for the adoption of High School Novel Curriculum for the 2022-2023 school year. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the adoption of the High School Novel Curriculum as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 804.1 Facilities Inspections and 804.2 District Emergency Ops Plan. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 711.3 Student Transportation for Extra-Curricular Activities; 711.4 Summer School Program Transportation Services; and 711.5 Transportation of Non-Resident and Non-Public School Students.

Dr. Smith updated the Board on the next Middle School Project meeting with the ISG, the City of Toledo, and the State of Iowa would be taking place on May 17^th to discuss next steps on the project. Board member Dolezal gave an update on the meeting that ISG had with Middle School Staff on May 13^th to discuss design of the project.

The Board took a break at 6:17 p.m. prior to entering closed session.

Board member Wiese left the meeting at 6:17 p.m. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to go into closed session at 6:29 p.m. pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)(j) of the open meeting law to discuss the purchase or sale of particular real estate where premature disclosure could be reasonably expected to increase the price the school district would have to pay or lower the price the board would receive for that property. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to come out of closed session at 7:08 p.m.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Werner to adjourn the meeting at 7:08 p.m.  All Ayes.

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

 

 

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on June 6, 2022 for a Regular Session at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Beth Wiese. Vice President Tyynismaa was present through Google Hangouts. Absent: Clint Werner. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Principals Brad Schweppe, Kris Collins, Ben Adams, and Mark Groteluschen, Buildings and Grounds Director Steve McAdoo, John Cain, Dixie Forcht, and several members of the community.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the agenda. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the May 16 public hearing and regular session; bills for payment as presented; agreement with Gallup Inc for principal assessments; agreement with Iowa College Student Aid Commission for 2022-2023 Gear Up program; agreement with Imagine Learning for three year Edgenuity Courseware license; rental agreement with Meskwaki Bingo, Casino, & Hotel for August 17, 2022 staff welcome back professional development day; agreement with Windstream to update phone service at the High School; agreement with Marco for updates to the phone system at the High School; agreement with Johnson Controls for updates to fire panels at the High School. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – None

The building principals gave a data assessment presentation to the Board recapping ISASP, MAP, and FAST scores, referral data, and participation data.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Devin Hoskey – Middle School At Risk Para; Katie Murphy – Individual Speech Coach & FCA Sponsor; Laura Taylor – Middle School Para; Sarah Weiermann – Middle School Soccer Coach

New Hires: Amy Karg – High School Assistant Principal; Chelsea Ahrens – Activities Director; Brianna Derrick – Elementary ELL Teacher; Rebecca Talk – Preschool Teacher; Ellen Moran – High School Technical Director; Kathryn Hulin – Assistant Business Manager; Dave Cantonwine – Part Time Middle School Special Ed Para; James Hala – Summer Custodial Help; Sarah Novotny – Summer Custodial Help; Elizabeth Placencia – Summer Custodial Help; Emily Chyma – High School Social Studies Lead Teacher

Transfers: Andrea Rutledge – from District wide sub teacher to High School English Teacher; Lesley Youngbear – from Payroll & Benefits Specialist to Accounting Generalist.

Officials – James Hall – Middle School Baseball and Softball; Ryne Kesl – Middle School Baseball; Jacob Collison – Middle School Baseball; Glenn Taylor – Middle School Softball; Tiffany Thiessen – Middle School Softball; Ashlynn Ellenbecker – Middle School Softiball

List of 2022-2023 Lead Teacher positions as presented.

Director of Finance Randy Denham and Matt Zmolek from Assured Partners presented the 2022-2023 property/casualty and workman’s comp insurance renewals to the Board. Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to accept the 2022-2023 property/casualty and workman’s comp insurance renewals as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham and Buildings & Grounds Director Steve McAdoo reviewed the final acceptance of the High School tennis court project with the Board. Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to accept the final pay application on the High School tennis court project. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Denham and Dixie Forcht presented a proposal to the Board to make upgrades to the Little Theatre at the High School. Phase I of the proposal included updates to the lighting, HVAC system, and flooring at total estimated cost of $75,296. Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve Phase I of the Little Theatre upgrades as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to accept sealed bids for the empty lot on the corner of 9^th and Harmon St in Tama at a minimum of $5,000 with sealed bids being due to the Board Secretary by July 7th. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Mr. Groteluschen and Mrs. Forcht presented the Trojan Seal of Academic Excellence Criteria to the Board stating that the Seal will provide and encourage learning opportunities for all students to become successful, life-long learners. Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the Trojan Seal of Academic Excellence Program for the High School as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 100 Legal Status of the School District; 101 Educational Philosophy of the District. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 804.1 Facilities Inspections; 804.2 District Emergency Ops Plan. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Buildings and Grounds Director Steve McAdoo provided an update to the Board on progress with the Middle School Project. Mr. McAdoo stated that he has been working with the District Architect at the Iowa Juvenile Home (IJH) site. Mr. McAdoo stated that ceiling tiles have been removed in the newer section of the IJH site and that they are waiting until the asbestos crews are done before removing the ceiling tiles in the old section of the IJH site. Mr. McAdoo stated that he is also working with the City of Toledo and that they are hoping to get the asbestos abatement done sometime this summer. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:32 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary    

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on June 21, 2022 for a Regular Session at the Elementary School, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Penny Tyynismaa, and Elizabeth Dolezal. Absent: Clint Werner, Beth Wiese. Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent Dr. Jared Smith, Board Secretary Randy Denham, Director of Curriculum Samantha Peska, John Cain, and several members of the community.

Dr. Smith stated that High School Principal Mark Groteluschen had submitted his resignation over the weekend and asked to have it added to the Personnel portion of the agenda. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the agenda with the addition to Personnel presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Tyynismaa to approve the following consent agenda items: Minutes from the June 6, 2022 regular session; bills for payment and monthly financial statements as presented; agreement with Viking Sprinkler for annual fire safety inspections; agreement with Buena Vista University for field experience, student teaching, practicum, and internships. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Public Comments – None

Board member Wiese arrived at 5:05 p.m.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Resignations: Mark Groteluschen – High School Principal (Resignation approved once suitable replacement has been found)

New Hires: Haley Mengler – 2^nd Grade Teacher; Riley Barrett – District Wide Sub Teacher (MS Focus); Kodi Hillman – 7^th Grade Girls Basketball Coach; Leah Founa – Assistant MS Volleyball Coach; Steve Chyma – Head MS Girls Wrestling Coach; Lon Wilkerson – Assistant MS Boys Basketball Coach; Cassie Sokol – District Wide Sub Teacher (Elem Focus); Callie Hulst – MS Special Ed and PE Para; Amber Robson – Superintendent Administrative Assistant

Transfers: Brintley Elsbury – From Elementary Para to Behavior Interventionist

Dr. Smith, Director of Curriculum Samantha Peska, and the Building Principals (attending virtually through Google Hangouts) presented the following 2022-2023 handbooks to the Board: Elementary preschool, student, and staff handbooks; Middle School student and staff handbooks; High School student, activities, and staff handbooks; TICU/Trojan Academy handbook, and the TLC handbook. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to accept the 2022-2023 handbooks as presented. All Ayes. The motion carried.

The Board discussed that per the District Certified Staff Handbook new staff can be given up to seven years of experience on the salary schedule upon hire. The Board discussed the difficulty of filling positions and discussed possibly removing the seven-year cap. The Board asked Administration to gather data on how current staff would be impacted if the cap were to be removed. Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to table the action on the years of service cap outlined in the Certified Staff Handbook until more information can be gathered by Administration. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Wiese to remove current Superintendent, Dr. Jared Smith from all District bank accounts at Lincoln Savings Bank and State Bank of Toledo and to add incoming Superintendent John Cain to District bank accounts at Lincoln Savings Bank and State Bank of Toledo effective July 1, 2022. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Tyynismaa, second by Dolezal to approve the first reading of the following Board Policies: 507.09 Wellness; and 507.09R1 Wellness Regulation. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the second and final reading of the following Board Policies: 100 Legal Status of the School District; and 101 Educational Philosophy of the District. All Ayes. The motion carried.

Dr. Smith shared that he recently received a call from Adam Steen at the State regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) agreement for the transfer of the Iowa Juvenile Home property to the District. Dr. Smith stated that the State is still working on getting the MOU put together as they are having to work with the Attorney General’s Office to complete. Dr. Smith will be reaching out to Mr. Steen to get another update in the near future.

The Board discussed upcoming Board Meeting dates. The Board set the following dates for summer Board meetings: July 11, 2022 – regular session; August 1 – regular session, with work session on the District’s Insurance Plans to follow; August 9, 2022 – work session Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) for a better boardsmanship workshop; August 15, 2022 – regular session; September 6, 2022 – regular session; September 19, 2022 – regular session. The Board stated that all future meetings would move back to the Partnership Center. President Lekin stated that she would like to have an additional work session prior to the August 9 work session with IASB to have some discussions to prepare for that meeting. No date was set for that work session.

John Cain provided an update to the Board regarding the State Apprenticeship program for educators. Mr. Cain stated that the District will be joining the Rural School Advocates of Iowa (RSAI) so that the District could be part of the cohort to allow paraeducators the opportunity to become teachers. Mr. Cain and the Principals will be communicating with paraeducators in the near future to provide more information as there will be a limited number of slots available. Mr. Cain stated that there will be opportunities for students as well and that he will be working with Administrators and staff to look into opportunities for students

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to adjourn the meeting at 6:09 p.m.  All Ayes.

 

________________________________            _________________________________

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Randy Denham, Board Secretary     

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on July 17, 2023 for a Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:45 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Elizabeth Dolezal, and Megan Thiessen.  Quorum Present.  Clint Werner and Beth Wiese were absent.  Also present were: Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Mary Mixdorf, Rob Boley, Dixie Forcht, Toledo Chief of Police - Dan Quigley, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Mrs. Mathern administered the Oath of Office to Megan Thiessen.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen, to approve the agenda with the addition of the Iowa Valley Agreement to the consent agenda, under letter C.  Contracts and Interagency Agreements.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items: minutes from the
June 19, 2023 regular Board meeting, minutes from the June 29, 2023 special Board meeting, bills for payment as presented, Nature Center Rental Agreement, iJAG MOU, Morningside Agreement, and Iowa Valley Agreement.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Public Comments – Amy Stotts and Dixie Forcht brought up suggestions/corrections for the handbooks.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Hires:  Michelle Ankrum - 4th Grade Teacher, Morgan McFate - Assistant Football Cheerleading Coach, Darcy Lamb - Assistant Large Group Speech Coach, and Kerry Kucera - Food Service

Resignations:  Judie Womack - Food Service

Officials:  Ian Hamilton - HS Baseball

2023-2024 Mentor Teachers:  Heather Wanatee, Dawn Henley, Amy Stewart, Melody Cole, Micki Stonewall, Madison Cline, Katie Schuett, Jennifer Anderson, Sarah Dostal, Michelle Wiegand, Sarah Klopping, Jeanette Stacy, George Kuhter, Steve Bearden, Ashley Raue, Paula Graves, Travis McBride, Elizabeth Weitzell, Audrey Roth, Emily Chyma, Victoria Hamilton, Rachel Davis, Kelle Johannsen, and Seth Koch

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the Covermaster quote, in the amount of $5,953, for a track cover. All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the Tama County Mitigation Adoption Plan.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to table approving the contract for the H-1B Visa until legal looks it over.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the Kajeet quote for renewal, in the amount of $10,270.65, for 50 of 150 smart spots.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.  

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the SRO agreement for the 2023-2024 school year, with any changes or amendments to be presented and approved by the Board.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve Change Order #004, to adjust the final completion date to August 2, 2023.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve Pay Application 03, from Garling Construction, in the amount of $341,080.02, for the Middle School Project.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the ISG invoice, in the amount of $93,515.00, for construction documents, bidding, and construction admin/close-out.   All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the change of the following nutrition prices:  Adult lunch from $4.13 to $4.85, milk from $0.45 to $0.50, water from $1.00 to $1.50, sandwich/pizza from $1.25 to $2.00, miscellaneous snacks from $0.75 to $1.00, soft pretzel $0.75, beef jerky from $1.25 to $1.00, parfaits from $2.00 to $2.50, frozen yogurt from $1.00 to $1.25, chef salad from $4.00 to $4.50, zero sugar pop (bottles) from $1.00 to $1.75, grab n go cereal $1.25, muffins $0.75, and cereal bars $1.50.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the CEC invoice, in the amount of $5,123.00, for annual fire inspections.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve the Key Cooperative Invoice, in the amount of $7,041.25, for seed beans.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the first reading of the following policies with changes as discussed:  104:  Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy, 104.(R)1:  Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures, 200.04:  Board Member Social Media Engagement, 210.05:  Meeting Notice, and 213:  Public Participation in Board Meetings.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the 2023-2024 Classified Handbook, Certified Handbook, Student Handbook, Preschool Handbook, Activities Handbook, and Substitute Handbook.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Superintendent Cain gave an update on the Middle School and invited those who haven’t seen the work completed to set up a time for him to take them on a tour.   

Superintendent Cain discussed the one-page document with STC’s Strategic Priorities.

Superintendent Cain spoke about the 2024 legislative priorities for the 2023-2024 school year.  New information will be coming out soon. 

The Board reviewed the report from Activities Director, Chelsea Ahrens, on the activities from the 2022-2023 school year. 

The Board reviewed Personnel openings as of July 14, 2023.

Superintendent Cain reported the Board/Administration book study of Culturize will pick back up in August with focus on chapter four.  The Board, administration, and directors will have a retreat on August 8th at the Tama County Nature Center, Otter Creek.  The bid opening for Phase 2 of the Middle School Project is on August 1, 2023, followed by the consideration of construction bids received and award of construction contract at the August 7th Board meeting.  Mr. Cain also reported Libby Albright (competitor), Kara Nachazel (special recognition) and Jonah Houghton will appear in the Iowa High School Music Theater Awards on PBS.   

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to adjourn the regular meeting at 8:27 p.m.

                                                 

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Katie Mathern, Board Secretary    

 

WORK AND REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in a Work Session on August 7, 2023 at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 4:30 p.m., prior to the Regular Session.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Elizabeth Dolezal, Megan Thiessen, Clint Werner, and Beth Wiese.  Absent:  None.  Quorum Present.  Also present were:  John Cain and other administrators. 

The Board and administrators discussed a book they are completing a book study on.

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 7, 2023 for a Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:30 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Elizabeth Dolezal, Megan Thiessen, Clint Werner, and Beth Wiese.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Mary Mixdorf, Rob Boley, Dixie Forcht, Toledo Chief of Police - Dan Quigley, Seth Koch, Kathy Wilkerson, Joy Schirmer, Michelle Wiegand, Ben Adams, Jonathan Meyer with The Tama-Toledo News Chronicle, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal, to approve the agenda with the addition of agenda item 6.P.  RSAI 2024 Legislative Issues Survey and agenda item 6.Q.  IASB 2024 Legislative Priorities.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the following consent agenda items with the tabling of item C.1.  Iowa Valley Summer College Credit Contract: minutes from the July 17, 2023 regular Board meeting and bills for payment as presented.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Public Comments – Rob Boley reviewed how changing from an 8-period to 7-period day at the high school would look with the open positions.  Seth Koch and Dixie Forcht brought up suggestions/corrections for the handbooks.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Hires:  Heather Wanatee - Head 7th Grade Girls Basketball Coach

Officials:  HS Volleyball - Deidra Mohr, Dave Mohr, Gregory Davies, Dan Rhine, Tiffany Theissen, Donald Anderson, Amy Dolash, David Lee - HS Cross Country Starter, and HS Football - David Nitz, Tom Kemper, Dan Johnson, Jay Freese, Brian Murphy, Clark Trotter, Trevor Trotter, Dennis Frye, Wesley Loomis, Marlon Kronick, Craig Harrison, Mike Pond, Dylan Pond, Kyle Telecky, Joel Murphy, Ben Marks, Scott Fritz, Mark Borchart, Doug Yanecek, Drew Yanecek, Terry Schneekloth, Dan Hoyka, Troy Cory, Josh Halma, Jason Rude, Robert Hoffert, Edward Kline, Adam Parton, and Jeff Holden

2023-2024 Mentor Teachers:  Anita Townsley

Motion by Thiessen, second by Werner to approve additional fundraising request from the HS Cheerleading Team to host a Back to School MS Pool Party on Wednesday, August 9th.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the Safe Track Sales Agreement, in the amount of $10,000.00, for an application annual subscription fee for up to 2,000 users.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the NWEA invoice, in the amount of $9,300.00, for the MAP Growth Kit K-12 and Map Growth Science (Add-On).  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the IASB invoice, in the amount of $5,535.00 for membership dues for FY 2023-24.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.  

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve the Tyler Technologies invoice, in the amount of $11,108.85, for Annual Saas up to 20 vehicles.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the first reading of the following policies:  402.02 - Required Professional Development for Employees, 402.05 (new) - Child Abuse Reporting, 408.01 (formerly known as 401.04) - Licensed Employee Professional Development, and 601.01 - School Calendar.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the second reading of the following policies with changes as discussed:  104:  Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy, 104. (R)1:  Anti-Bullying/Harassment Policy - Investigation Procedures, 200.04:  Board Member Social Media Engagement, 210.05:  Meeting Notice, and 213:  Public Participation in Board Meetings.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Thiessen, second by Werner to approve Lincoln Savings Bank, State Bank of Toledo, and WCF Financial as the District’s depositories for 2023-2024.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the Tama-Toledo News Chronicle as the District’s official publication source for 2023-2024.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Thiessen, second by Wiese to approve the following Level I investigators for the 2023-2024 school year:  Brad Schweppe, Kris Collins, Anita Townsley, Ben Adams, Scott Bolen, Crystal Hass, Blake Wedeling, Robert Boley, Amy Karg, Dan Lopez, Dina Keahna, Samantha Peska, and John Cain (Level I Alternate).  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve the Phillips Floors invoice, in the amount of $6,415.00, for work completed as per contract dated 2/09/2021.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve The Strengthening Center, LLC invoice, in the amount of $6,225.00, for services provided to students without insurance for the second semester of the 2022-2023 school year.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the RSAI 2024 Legislative Issues Survey.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Public Hearing - Bid Package #2 plans, specifications, form of contract and estimated total cost at 6:00 p.m.  President Lekin asked for comments.  With no comments, President Lekin asked for a motion to close the public hearing. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to close the public hearing at 6:02 p.m.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to consider the construction bids received.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Werner, second by Wiese to award the construction contract to the lowest responsive and responsible bidder for Bid Package #2, with alternates #1 and #2, Garling Construction.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve the IASB 2024 Legislative Priorities.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Superintendent Cain gave an update on the Middle School project.  Art Baumgartner, architect with ISG, is transitioning out and off the middle school project.  A new architect will be assigned to the project.  Steve McAdoo and his guys did a wonderful job of cleaning up the new middle school grounds for Ragbri to come through. 

The Board reviewed Personnel openings as of August 1, 2023.

Superintendent Cain, along with Dan Quigley, reviewed the status of the School Resource Officer position and the 28e Agreement.

Superintendent Cain provided an update on the redistricting map.  The District is waiting to hear approval on the map that was submitted.

Superintendent Cain thanked Dixie Forcht for her assistance with the handbook changes.  The Board and administration are continuing their Culturize book study.  The Board/Administration Retreat will be on August 8, 2023 from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m., at Otter Creek.  Mr. Cain reviewed the upcoming Professional Development details.  He asked the Board to familiarize themselves with the professional development one-pager document and student handbook.  He also mentioned the Strategic Plan one-page document would continue to remain in the “draft” stage through the retreat on the 8th.  The next Board meeting will be at 5:00 p.m. on August 22, 2023, due to Back to School Night on August 21st. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to adjourn the regular meeting at 6:40 p.m.

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Katie Mathern, Board Secretary    

WORK SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT OF SOUTH TAMA COUNTY

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met in a Work Session on August 8, 2023 at the Otter Creek Nature Center, Toledo, Iowa at 4:00 p.m.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Elizabeth Dolezal, Megan Thiessen, Cint Werner, and Beth Quorum Present. Also present were: Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Lou Ann Gvist from Iowa Association of School Boards, Robert Boley, Amy Karg, Ben Adams, Scott Bolen, Brad Schweppe, Kris Collins, Sam Peska, Mary Mixdorf, Jon Huebner, Steve Chyma, Steve McAdoo, Michelle Kalinay, and Chelsea Ahrens. 

President Lekin introduced Lou Ann Gvist from Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) and provided some background information on the importance of having Board professional development.  Lou Ann facilitated the retreat.

The Board and administration team utilized the retreat to onboard and align their thinking as it relates to prioritizing the 2023 - 2024 strategic plan goals and see how they align with the professional development action plans, the mission and vision for learning at South Tama County Community School District. 

The work session adjourned at 8:06 p.m.

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Katie Mathern, Board Secretary    

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on August 22, 2023 for a Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Elizabeth Dolezal, Megan Thiessen, Clint Werner, and Beth Wiese.  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent John Cain, Board Secretary Katie Mathern, Mary Mixdorf, Brad Schweppe, Ben Adams, Kris Collins, Steve McAdoo, Michelle Wiegand, Danny Mayo, Vern Jefferson, Sam Peska, Rob Boley, Chelsea Ahrens, Robert Tyynismaa, Tommy Tyynismaa, James Brant, Braxten Rohrs, Cade Rosenberger, Trey Etzen, Cody Blocker, Jeremy Dolash, Holden Schirmer, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Wiese, to approve the agenda with the addition of agenda item (reports) 6.E. Esports.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the following consent agenda items: minutes from the August 7, 2023 regular Board meeting, bills for payment as presented, financials, Iowa Valley Summer College Credit Contract, AIA Agreement, and CEC PLR Change Order.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Public Comments – Danny Mayo spoke to the Board about the high school academic eligibility criteria. 

Each building administrator gave updates on positions currently unfilled and the plan on coverage for those positions, if needed.

Sam Peska updated the Board with the professional development plan for the year.

Vern Jefferson was introduced as the new School Resource Officer for the District.

Chelsea Ahrens spoke to the Board about an ESports Sponsor paid position.  This is the 3rd year of offering ESports as a school sponsored club at STC.  After two years of starting the program from the ground up, having some success, and continuing to grow the program, it is felt this position should receive a stipend for the amount of time they spend with the kids and the length of each season.  This position would be considered a level III coaching position with a full year contract.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Hires:  Jeff DeBondt - Assistant 8th Grade Football Coach, Tyler Fulks - Fall Musical Costumer, Tyler Fulks - Spring Play Costumer, George Kuhter - Assistant 7th Grade Football Coach, and Craig Harrison - Varsity Boys Basketball

Resignations:  Victoria Hamilton - High School Webmaster and Debbie Price - Paraeducator

Officials:  Middle School Volleyball - Glen Taylor, Tiffany Thiessen, Amy Dolash, Tessa Matherly, and Eugene Ubben and MS Football - Dave Nitz 

Volunteers:  Mary Fasse-Shaw - Fall Musical, Speech, Spring Plays, Jeff Shaw - Fall Musical, Speech, Spring Plays, Collen Probasco - Fall Musical, Speech, Spring Plays, Dalton Rosenburg - MS/HS Wrestling, Travis Smith - MS/HS Wrestling, Baron Davis - MS/HS Wrestling, Mike Wedmore - HS Basketball, Larry Fletcher - HS Basketball, and Mike Carnahan - HS ESports   

2023-2024 Lead Teachers:  Nate Doran - Art and Teresa Smith - Music

Motion by Dolezal, second by Wiese to approve the ISG invoice, in the amount of $89,777.68, for bidding and construction admin/close-out.   All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Dolezal, second by Thiessen to approve Pay Application #4, from Garling, in the amount of $44,180.37, for construction services.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the IXL Learning renewal quote, in the amount of $6,413.00, for a site license (grades 5-8; 450 students) subjects:  Math and Science.  Learning loss funds will be used for this purchase.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve the Mindfulness & Social Emotional Wellness Consulting quote, in the amount of $5,985.00, for resources for Brainpower Wellness.  Stronger Connections Grant funds will be utilized to cover this expense.  Ayes:  Lekin, Dolezal, Thiessen, and Wiese  Nays:  Werner  The motion carried.  

The Board recognized the State Track Qualifiers and their accomplishments.  In the 1600-meter run, Tommy Tyynismaa placed 2nd and James Brant placed 7th.  Tyynismaa placed 2nd in the 800-meter run.  The 4x800 relay team of James Brant, Tommy Tyynismaa, Braxten Rohrs, and Cade Rosenberger finished 12th.  The Distance Medley team of Tommy Tyynismaa, Trey Etzen, Cody Blocker, and James Brant earned a 6th place finish.  The athletes shared what they enjoyed about the season with the Board.   

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve the Thomas Company bid, in the amount of $9,311.00, for a new furnace/AC in the District Administration Building.  ESSER funds will be used for this purchase.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the H-1B Visa for a teacher transitioning from the Philippines to work at South Tama.  Legal counsel has approved this process.  Ayes:  Lekin, Dolezal, Thiessen, and Wiese  Nays:  Werner  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to approve the Riverside Technologies, Inc. quote, in the amount of $11,809.71, for the router that serves the school buildings, bus barn, and District Administration Building.  ESSER funds will be used for this purchase.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the Cleaver Brooks quotes, in the amounts of $6,800.00 and $7,200.00, for annual boiler inspections (Tama and Toledo).  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Werner, second by Wiese to table the reading of the following policies:  402.02 - Required Professional Development for Employees, 402.05 (new) - Child Abuse Reporting, 408.01 (formerly known as 401.04) - Licensed Employee Professional Development, and 601.01 - School Calendar.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Dolezal to approve Ahlers and Cooney as the District’s legal counsel.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Werner, second by Wiese to table the handbook updates.   All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the final 28E agreement for the School Resource Officer position.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

The Board followed-up on the Board Administrative Work Session.  The Board is looking to continue the work in this area and take a deeper dive.  They reviewed options of how they might be able to accomplish this.  

The administrative team outlined a format for Board meeting presentations.  The Board discussed what data they hope to have reported from each building and reviewed the presentation dates.

The Board reviewed Personnel openings as of August 23, 2023.

Superintendent Cain presented a spreadsheet with legislative updates and the requirements/mandates each need.  The goal is to provide the Board with updates on the District’s progress towards the recent legislation and lay out a timeline for the work that lies ahead.   

Superintendent Cain provided an update on the middle school project.  The groundbreaking ceremony was held prior to the meeting.  Bid Package One’s punch list has 80 items that will be addressed. 

Superintendent Cain reported it was a great first week back with staff.  Looking forward to the start of school with students, it will be hot and Mr. Cain communicated the procedures to families that there might be a need for early dismissal on Wednesday and Thursday.  The LTRS training is looking promising.  Mr. Cain stated one of his goals this year is for staff to have the mental strength not only for students, but enough in each staff member’s tank to take home to their families.  The 78th IASB Annual Convention and Trade Show is November 15 - 17, 2023.  School Board elections are this year and papers can be filed at the District Administration Building from August 28th - September 21st. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Dolezal to adjourn the regular meeting at 7:29 p.m.

 

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Katie Mathern, Board Secretary    

REGULAR SESSION

OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF THE

SOUTH TAMA COUNTY COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

 

The Board of Directors of the Community School District of South Tama County met on September 5, 2023 for a Regular Session at the Partnership Center, Tama, Iowa at 5:00 p.m. with members of the community attending electronically through Google Hangouts.

On call of the roll the following were present:  Mandy Lekin, Megan Thiessen, Clint Werner, and Beth Wiese.  Absent:  Elizabeth Dolezal  Quorum Present.  Also present were: Superintendent John Cain, Amber Robson acting as Board Secretary, Mary Mixdorf, Dixie Forcht, Dr. Carlos Celis of The Strengthening Center, and members of the community through Google Hangouts.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Wiese, to approve the agenda.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the following consent agenda items: minutes from the August 8, 2023 work session; minutes from the August 22, 2023 regular session; bills for payment as presented; and early graduation requests from Daniel Gummert - January 2024, Hailee Kriegel - January 2024, and Cale Graff - May 2024.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Public Comments – None

Dr. Carlos Celis, co-owner of The Strengthening Center, reviewed details of the program with South Tama County Schools.  His work began in October 2021 with 97 clients.  At the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year, he had a total of 86 clients and ended the year with 53 clients.  Consultation hours consist a lot in the elementary, as students are more available to connect with during transition periods.  Also, he likes to consult with parents to give them feedback and address situations. 

Maggie Hartzler with Tanager Place reviewed the details of their services to students at South Tama County Schools.  Kim Schutterle is the therapist for STC.  She mostly serves the high school students.  Kim has also served 12 students at the middle school, five in the elementary, and two at TICU.  Total with the high school students is 47 students that she saw this past year.  Kim also had 75 referrals.  Several of these referrals have turned into active clients.  There were 757 therapeutic sessions held throughout the course of the year.   

Motion by Thiessen, second by Wiese to approve the following personnel requests.  All Ayes. The motion carried.

Hires:  Andrew Walton - Fall/Winter Weight Room Supervisor and Alexis Munoz - Elementary Kitchen Staff

Volunteers:  Gustavo Chavarria - HS Gamers Night, Nickolas Seitz - HS D&D Club and Esports, and Logan Arp - HS/MS Girls and Boys Wrestling

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the Esports position.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Thiessen, second by Werner to approve The Strengthening Center invoice, in the amount of $7,615.45, for services provided in July and August.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the Teachers Council, Inc. invoice, in the amount of $5,960.00, for the processing of a H-1B Visa for a teacher.  Ayes:  Lekin, Thiessen, and Wiese  Nays:  Werner  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve the Imagine Learning quote, in the amount of $6,075.00, for 45 Imagine Language & Literacy Reusable Licenses. All Ayes.  The motion carried.  

Motion by Thiessen, second by Werner to approve the Garling pay application #5, in the amount of $25,331.98, for the middle school construction project.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the list of anticipated fundraisers for the 2023-2024 school year, as presented.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Werner to approve Lincoln Savings Bank, State Bank of Toledo, and WCF Financial as the District’s depositories for 2023-2024, with upper limits of $30,000,000, $15,000,000, and $5,000,000 respectively.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the Meskwaki Convention Center invoice, in the amount of $8,157.00, for the all staff beginning of year meeting.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Werner, second by Thiesen to approve the first reading of the following policies:  503.07 - Student Disclosure of Identity (New), 503.07E1 - Student Disclosure of Identity - Report of Student Disclosure of Identity (New), 503.07E2 - Student Disclosure of Identity - Request to Update Student Identity (New), 505.04 - Testing Program (formerly known as 607.03), and 505.05 - Graduation Requirements.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the second reading of the following policies:  402.02 - Required Professional Development for Employees, 402.05 (new) - Child Abuse Reporting, 408.01 (formerly known as 401.04) - Licensed Employee Professional Development, and 601.01 - School Calendar.  All Ayes.  The motion carried.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to approve the certified, classified, and parent/student handbooks for the 2023-2024 school year.  All Ayes.  The motion carried. 

As of August 31, 2023, there are 58 students open enrolled into STC and 102 open enrolled out of STC.  A trend for the past year will be compiled and brought back to the Board for comparison.   

The Board reviewed Personnel openings as of September 2023.

Superintendent Cain explained the Jester equipment maintenance insurance program and what it entails.  He would like to meet with Jester’s representative and those from STC this program would affect.

Superintendent Cain provided an update on the middle school project.  He will be getting a meeting set up with Garling and ISG in the near future. 

Superintendent Cain stated he would like to prioritize some items on the list of feedback from Board members for his evaluation that are connected to the strategic plan.  He asked for feedback on the South Tama County Visualization Plan.  The AEA has been working with him on this plan and is waiting for the ISASP data to be uploaded later this fall, to access the data for this plan.  The next book study date will be on September 18, 2023 at 4:30 pm, and it will be over chapter five of the book, Culturize.

Motion by Wiese, second by Thiessen to adjourn the regular meeting at 6:16 p.m.

 

Mandy Lekin, Board President                             Amber Robson, Acting Board Secretary