Adjourn: Shepherd motioned and Mayberry seconded to adjourn meeting.  Motion passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 6:18 p.m.

 

 

August 16, 2021

 

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, August 16, 2021 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble,
Cathy Williamson, April Glosser, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, James Fineran, Michele Ratliff and others
not signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: Vice President Shepherd called the
regular board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Dave Friedman, Rena Shepherd, Mike Mayberry,
Patrick Powers, Patti Maloy and Mark Haselhuhn present. Doug Brinegar absent. Quorum established.

Correspondence: None

Approve/Amend Agenda: Mayberry motioned and Friedman seconded to approve agenda. Motion
carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson discussed ESSER III funding and EBF’s Return to Learn plan for
the 2021-2022 school year. New Iowa Code section 280.31 does not allow school districts to issue mask
mandates, therefore EBF will not mandate masks for the 2021-2022 school year. April Glosser,
Curriculum Director, went over IS ASP Data with the board and discussed strategies that have been
implemented to help student’s learning. Steve Noble, Principal at the Jr/Sr High, went over final staffing
assignments at the high school. James Fineran, Principal at Fremont Elementary, updated the board on
enrollment and building improvements at each elementary. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special
Services, gave updates on finalized rosters, curriculum and professional development. Other reports
submitted, but not read, were from the Maintenance and Daycare directors.

Consent Items: Prior to a motion to approve consent items, Superintendent Williamson spoke to the
board regarding the open enrollment boundaries that the board adopted in 2018 and if there could be a
committee of two board members and the superintendent to meet and discuss special open enrollment
requests. Friedman motioned and Powers seconded to approve the recommendation of open enrollment
committee with the Consent Items: July 19, 2021 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of July
31, 2021; August’s Bills; Review of School Board Policies: 3.8 Superintendent Salary & Other
Compensation, 3.9 Superintendent Professional Development, 3.10 Administrative Cabinet, 3.11
Administrative Positions; Contract/Agreements: Hamilton Produce Company for LP, and the Therapeutic
Classroom Consortium Agreement, Open Enrollment in of BellaMae Zook, 2nd Grade from Ottumwa to
Fremont Elementary, Oliver Gustafson, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary, and
Open Enrollment out of Draystin Eddy, 10th grade to Oskaloosa and Cason Walker, 8th grade to CAM.
Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Maloy motioned and Friedman seconded to approve the hires of Larae Middlesworth, Cook at
the Jr/Sr High School and Pieter Appel for College Credit Welding / Ag Mechanical CTE, pending
approval from BoEE and the resignations of Tabetha Meyers, Para Educator at Fremont Elementary and
John Thompson, Individual Speech supplemental contract. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Powers motioned and Maloy seconded to approve the IHCC Contract for Educational
Services. Motion carried unanimously. Powers motioned and Mayberry seconded the purchase of
Chromebooks for students in 3rd grade in the amount of $30,000. Motion carried unanimously.

Friedman motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve ESSER III plan. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayberry motioned and Maloy seconded to approve the COVED Return to Learn Plan. Motion carried
unanimously. Maloy motioned and Friedman seconded to approve the five-year Wapello County Hazard

Mitigation Plan. Motion carried unanimously. Friedman motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve
the new daycare fees. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: Superintendent Williamson informed the board that Denovo would be meeting with
administrators on Friday, August 20th, and after the meeting would start inspecting the buildings.

Discussion Items: The Board discussed the IASB Convention to be held November 17th & 18th and the
ability to give district years of service awards to all staff. Gifts are allowed per board policy 7.14
Appropriate Use of Public Funds.

Open Positions: Cook at the Jr/Sr High and Eddyville Elementary, Activity Bus Driver, Childcare
Associate, Individual Speech Coach, Head Wrestling Coach, Assistant Wrestling Coach, Assistant Boys
Basketball Coach, Jr High Coaches for Football, Wrestling, Girls & Boys Basketball and Track and
substitutes for all positions.

Adjourn: Power motioned and Friedman seconded to adjourn meeting. Motion passed unanimously.
Meeting adjourned at 7:01 p.m.

 

September 20, 2021

 

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, September 20, 2021 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble,
Cathy Williamson, April Glosser, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, James Fineran, Pieter Appel, Cammie
Richards, Matt Thompson and others not signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular
board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Dave Friedman, Rena Shepherd, Mike Mayberry, Doug
Brinegar, Patrick Powers, Patti Maloy and Mark Haselhuhn present. Quorum established.

Presentation - Indian Hills: Matt Thompson, President of Indian Hills Community College, presented
on a bond referendum for IHCC that is on the ballot this November 2nd. Mr. Thompson went over the
improvements that the funds will be used for all of their locations. Anyone that would like to discuss
further with Mr. Thompson may call him at 515-520-7012.

Correspondence: None

Approve/Amend Agenda: Shepherd motioned and Friedman seconded to approve agenda. Motion
carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson discussed enrollment trends and 5-year financial information. April
Glosser, Curriculum Director, updated the board on the new math curriculum, Character Strong and
upcoming professional development that teachers and staff will be attending. Steve Noble, Principal at
the Jr/Sr High, explained to the Board about Rocket Time and stated the students and staff were getting
ready for Homecoming, which is set for October 8th. James Fineran, Principal at Fremont Elementary,
gave the elementary principal’s report and updated the board on happenings at all the elementary
buildings. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, gave an update on the beginning of the year
professional development and the Explore Academy. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from
the Activities, Daycare, Maintenance and Nutrition directors.

Consent Items: Powers motioned and Friedman seconded to approve the Consent Items: August 2, 2021
and August 16, 2021 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of August 30, 2021; September’s
Bills; Review of School Board Policies: 3.12 Administrator Qualifications, Recruitment, and
Appointment, 3.13 Administrator Contract and Contract Nonrenewal, 3.14 Administrator Salary and
Other Compensation, 3.15 Administrator Duties; Contract/Agreements: De Vries Counseling &
Consulting, PLLC, and Morningside Education Agreement, Open Enrollment in of Oliver Gustafson,
Kindergarten from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary, Gillian Baxter, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to
Blakesburg Elementary, Georgia Smith 6th Grade, family moved, staying at Eddyville Elementary,
Paisley Smith 4th Grade, family moved, staying at Eddyville Elementary, Rayley Graham, Kindergarten,
from Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, Fiadh Mills, Kindergarten, from Oskaloosa to Home School,
Kade Houser, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Fremont Elementary, Ridge Mittag, Kindergarten from
Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, Dylan Reed, Kindergarten from Pekin to Fremont Elementary, and
Open Enrollment out Draystin Eddy, 10th Grade to Oskaloosa, Ana Boosalis, 8th Grade family moved
and staying at Oskaloosa, and Alekos Boosalis, 6th Grade family moved and staying at Oskaloosa.
Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Shepherd motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve the following hires: Cindy Nichols,
Cook at the Jr/Sr High School, Diana Rust, Cook at the Eddyville Elementary, Logan Collett, Part-time
Custodian for the Therapeutic Classroom, Troy Schutt for Fall Play Director, Garrett Scharff, Cook at the

Jr/Sr High School, Tom Hallgren, Head Baseball Coach, Alex Ashman, Assistant Baseball Coach, Tony
Fenton, Head Softball Coach, Alexis Kauzlarich, 9th Grade Softball Coach and Kiley Lobberecht, Junior
High Girls Basketball Coach. Motion carried unanimously. Friedman motioned and Shepherd seconded
to approve the following resignation: Stacie Etcher, Junior High Softball Coach and Holly Bogatzke,
Fremont Library Para Educator. Motion carried unanimously. Superintendent Williamson addressed the
board regarding Archery prior to board action on volunteers. Superintendent Williamson had spoken to
NASP and the school district is just recognizing the archery program and does not financially support
team, nor does the district have any participation in how the archery program is ran. Mayberry motioned
and Shepherd seconded to approve the following volunteers: Nick Schmitz, Archery, Katie Smith,
Archery, Amy Van Genderen, Archery, Calvin Van Genderen, Archery, Jenny Van Zante, Archery,
Kendell Strausser, Archery, Jessica Nollen, Archery, Rylie Lathen, Archery, Jatin Moore, Archery and
Kylie Lobberecht, Junior High Volleyball. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Friedman motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the SBRC Request for
Supplemental Allowable Growth for the Special Education Deficit of $160,425.87. Roll Call Vote:
Friedman, Aye, Shepherd, Aye, Mayberry, Aye, Brinegar, Aye, Powers, Aye, Maloy, Aye and
Haselhuhn, Aye. Motion carried unanimously. Superintendent Williamson recommended to the board an
increase for substitute teacher pay to $130 a day. Friedman motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve
an increase of substitute teacher pay to $135 a day. Discussion held. Friedman amended motion to
include $67.50 substitute teacher pay for half day. Motion carried with 6 ayes and 1 nay. Superintendent
recommended the approval of the 2021-2022 fundraisers, with the addition of a golf tournament for the
wrestling team. Maloy motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the fundraisers with the addition of
the wrestling golf tournament. Motion carried unanimously. Haselhuhn motioned and Powers seconded
to approve the FFA request to attend the National Convention in Indianapolis, IN in October. Motion
carried unanimously. Powers motioned and Haselhuhn seconded to approve the Safety Equipment
Purchase Board Resolution 2021.2 in the amount of $2,625.10. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: Superintendent Williamson informed the board that Denovo will present assessments
to the board at the October and November regular board meetings.

Discussion Items: Discussion was held regarding the possibility of increasing the starting wage for the
nutrition staff as well as pursuing a food service management company. Superintendent Williamson also
informed the board that at this time he was not recommending a mask mandate for EBF. A plan is being
put in place for home school students receiving a high school diploma. Currently EBF only has practices
and Superintendent Williamson will have protocols in place for board approval soon.

Open Positions: Jr/Sr High Social Studies Teacher, Fremont Elementary Library Para Educator, Activity
Route Driver, Childcare Associate, the following coaching positions: Individual Speech, Jr High Football,
Assistant Boys Basketball, Jr High Boys & Girls Basketball, Head Wrestling, Assistant Wrestling, Jr
High Wrestling, Jr High Track, Jr High Baseball and Jr High Softball.

 

Adjourn: Friedman motioned and Mayberry seconded to adjourn the meeting.  Motion carried unanimously. 
Meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.

 

October 18, 2021

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, October 18, 2021 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble,
Cathy Williamson, April Glosser, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, James Fineran, Jenny VanZante, Lara
Vandello, Andy Heinle, Melissa Reed-Appel, Linda Taylor, Tom and Robin Taylor and others not signed
in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular
board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Dave Friedman, Rena Shepherd, Mike Mayberry, Patrick
Powers, Patti Maloy, Mark Haselhuhn and Doug Brinegar present. Quorum established.

Correspondence: Thank you from the family of David Brinegar

Approve/Amend Agenda: Mayberry motioned and Powers seconded to approve the amended agenda
with item 8F struck through. Motion carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson asked Mr. Noble to present his board report first to allow him time
to get to the volleyball game taking place at the Jr/Sr High School. Mr. Noble updated the board on
homecoming, PSAT testing, volleyball post season plan, success of the marching band, upcoming
parent/teacher conferences and the annual Veteran’s Day breakfast and program. Superintendent
Williamson discussed with the board preliminary enrollment numbers for the 2022 school year as well as
the facility assessment from Denovo later on in the meeting. Jil Nelson, Principal at Eddyville
Elementary, gave the elementary principal’s report and updated the board on happenings at all the
elementary buildings. April Glosser, Curriculum Director, updated the board on the FAST Data by
buildings and grades. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, gave an update on the Explore
Academy and the Para Leadership Team. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Daycare,
Maintenance and Nutrition directors.

Consent Items: Powers motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve the Consent Items: A(i) to C(iv):
September 20, 2021 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of September 30, 2021; October’s
Bills; Review of School Board Policies: 3.16 Administrator Evaluation, 3.17 Administrator Professional
Development, 3.18 Administrator Code of Ethics, and 3.19 Succession of Authority to the
Superintendent. Motion carried unanimously. Superintendent Williamson explained to the board the
need for policy 5.46A Graduation Requirements - Home School Assistance Program. This policy will be
the guideline for home school students to receive a high school diploma versus the regular certificate of
completion for home school. Powers motioned and Friedman seconded to approve the first reading of
board policy 5.46A Graduation Requirements - Home School Assistance Program. Motion carried
unanimously. There were no contracts or agreements. Friedman motioned and Shepherd seconded to
approve Open Enrollments in from Blythe Barnett, Preschool from Oskaloosa, attending Eddyville
Elementary, Landyn Walker, 9th grade from Knoxville (family move) Reagan Walker, 2nd Grade from
Albia (family move) and Wiatt McGachey, 11 Grade from Ottumwa (family move). Motion carried
unanimously.

Personnel: Shepherd motioned and Friedman seconded to approve the following hires: Kiera Tremmel,
Para Educator at Jr/Sr High School, Cynthia Purdy, Library Para Educator at Fremont Elementary,
Melissa VanDonselaar, Cheerleading Sponsor, Scott Williamson, Head Wrestling Coach, David Hall,
Assistant Wrestling Coach, Jeff Larson, Assistant Boys Basketball Coach, Curt Johnston, Jr High Boys
Basketball Coach and Roger Kalke, Regular Route Driver. Motion carried unanimously. Mayberry
motioned and Powers seconded to approve the following resignation: Todd Sisco, Physical Education

 

Teacher at the Jr/Sr High and Head Football Coach, Lloyd Sisco, Assistant Football Coach, Tara Allen,
Para Educator at the Jr/Sr High School, Jeff Foster, Regular Route Driver and Denise Broerman, .5 6th
Grade Classroom and .5 Reading Interventionist at Fremont Elementary. Motion carried unanimously.
Mayberry motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the following volunteer: Micheal Pilcher,
Volunteer Wrestling Coach. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Shepherd motioned and Maloy seconded to approve the 2021-2022 Hard Surface Only
Plan. Board requests that the plan is distributed to all families. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd
motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve one additional fund raiser item for the Boys Track, apparel
sales. Motion carried unanimously. Friedman motioned and Powers seconded to approve the 2021-2022
EBF Lau Plan. Motion carried unanimously. Superintendent Williamson asked the board for approval on
requesting waivers for physical education in certain situations for students. With the resignation of one
physical education teacher, this will help with our staffing situation. Shepherd motioned and Malloy
seconded to approve the General Accreditation Standards Waiver for both the 2021-2022 and 2022-2023
academic years. Motion carried unanimously. Friedman motioned and Mayberry seconded to allow
students in grades 9 to 11 to use an exemption for one semester of PE. Motion carried unanimously.
Powers motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the GPAEA Librarian Sharing agreement for 2021-
2022. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: Representatives from Denovo presented to the board their facility assessment. They
gave a brief overlook of each building in the district and will return in November to work with the board
on determining a plan on moving forward.

Discussion Items: Discussion was held on certified enrollment, the IASB School Board Conference in
November, and the possibility of expanding the Indian Hills Approved Course list. Board also discussed
the upcoming election and how this will affect the date of the November board meeting. The board would
also like to see information out on the website for constitutes to be informed of the upcoming election.

Open Positions: Jr/Sr High Social Studies Teacher, Jr/Sr High Physical Education Teacher, Jr/Sr High
Health Para Educator Activity Route Driver, Childcare Associate, the following coaching positions:
Individual Speech, Head Football, Jr High Boys Basketball, Jr High Wrestling, Jr High Track, Jr High
Baseball and Jr High Softball.

Adjourn: Haselhuhn motioned and Friedman seconded to adjourn the meeting. Motion carried
unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 8:05 pm.

November 22, 2021

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, November 22, 2021 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble,
Cathy Williamson, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, Michele Ratliff, Tom and Robin Taylor and others not
signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular
board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Dave Friedman, absent; Rena Shepherd, present; Mike
Mayberry, present; Patrick Powers, Patti Maloy, absent; Mark Haselhuhn, absent; and Doug Brinegar
present. Quorum established.

Correspondence: None

Approve/Amend Agenda: Shepherd motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve the agenda. Motion
carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson presented the board an overview of general fund expenditures and
revenues for FY2022, brief notes from the Denovo presentation on October 18th and The OSHA Federal
Rules for Employers with over 100 employees regarding vaccination mandates. Mr. Noble presented his
board report and updated the board on events at the Jr/Sr High, the hire of a new social studies teacher
and that the following students were inducted into the National Honor Society: Taylor Kerby, Paige
Molesworth, Colton Sheldon, and Carson Wade. Tammy Davis, Principal at Blakesburg Elementary,
gave the elementary principal’s report and updated the board on happenings at all the elementary
buildings. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, gave an update on the Explore Academy and
trainings for the para educators. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Activity, Daycare,
Maintenance and Nutrition directors.

Old Business: Powers motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the second reading of Board Policy
5.46A: Graduation Requirements - Home School Assistance Program. Motion carried unanimously.
Shepherd motioned and Mayberry seconded to approve the IHCC Contract for the first semester of
Composition I. Superintendent Williamson mentioned that the bill was just received from Indian Hills and
why the board was just now approving. Motion carried unanimously. Mayberry motioned and Powers
seconded to approve the authorization to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for a
modified supplemental amount of $171,971.20 for open enrolled out students who were not included in
the district’s previous year certified enrollment count. Roll Call vote: Friedman, absent; Shepherd, yes;
Mayberry, yes; Powers, yes; Malloy, absent; Haselhuhn, absent; Brinegar, yes. Motion carried. Mayberry
motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the authorization to submit a request to the School Budget
Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $58,167.12 related to the English Language
Learning Program for students who have exceeded five years of weighting that are included on the Fall
2021 certified enrollment headcount. Roll Call vote: Friedman, absent; Shepherd, yes; Mayberry, yes;
Powers, yes; Malloy, absent; Haselhuhn, absent; Brinegar, yes. Motion carried. Shepherd motioned and
Mayberry seconded to approve the FY 2021 Year End Financial Balances. Motion carried unanimously.

Review of Canvassed Election Results: Lara Vandello received 65 votes and Eric Dean Lennox
received 65 votes for Director District #1. Lara Vandello’s name was drawn by the Wapello County
Supervisors on Tuesday, November 16th. Lara Vandello elected. Micah Van Mersbergen received 65
votes and Patrick Powers received 54 votes for Director District #2. Micah Van Mersbergen elected. Curt
Houk received 63 votes for Director District #6. Curt Houk elected. Eric Klyn received 94 votes and Scott
Pilcher received 36 votes for Director District #7. Eric Klyn elected.

 

Adjournment of Retiring Board: Mayberry motioned and Powers seconded to adjourn. President
Brinegar thanked all the retiring board members for their dedication and support of Eddyville-
Blakesburg-Fremont. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm.

FIVE MINUTE RECESS

Call to Order: Secretary McCrea called to order the meeting of the newly elected EBF Board of
Directors at 6:05 p.m. and administered the Oath of Office to newly elected board members Lara
Vandello for DD #1, Micah Van Mersbergen for DD #2, Curt Houk for DD #6 and Eric Klyn for DD #7.

Organizational Items: Shepherd nominated and Vandello seconded to nominate Doug Brinegar as EBF
Board President. Motion carried unanimously. Brinegar appointed President and given the oath of office.
President Brinegar then took over the meeting. Vandello nominated and Brinegar seconded to nominate
Rena Shepherd as EBF Board Vice President. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd appointed Vice
President and given Oath of Office. Shepherd motioned and Brinegar seconded to appoint Mary McCrea
as EBF Board Secretary. Motion carried unanimously. McCrea appointed EBF Board Secretary and
given the Oath of Office. Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to set the regular board meeting
schedule for the third Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m.at the District Office, unless otherwise noted on
the agenda. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Shepherd seconded to set the
procedural rules as Parliamentary Procedures at a Glance. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd
motioned and Vandello seconded to set the official depository as First Iowa State bank with a maximum
depository limit of fourteen million dollars. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and
Shepherd seconded to select the Ottumwa Courier as the official publication. Motion carried
unanimously. Houk motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to select Lynch-Dallas Law Firm, Mr. Brett
Nitzschke as the school attorney, Motion carried unanimously. 2021-2022 Board Committees and
Delegates were discussed and Vice President Shepherd appointed the following to the following
committees: Capital Projects/Transportation: Eric Klyn, Curt Houk and Doug Brinegar with Micah Van
Mersbergen as an alternate. Negotiations: Micah Van Mersbergen and Rena Shepherd with Doug
Brinegar as an alternate. County Delegates: Mahaska County - Micah Van Mersbergen; Monroe County
- Mark Haselhuhn; Wapello County - Eric Klyn. Quarterly Building Representative Meeting: Mark
Haselhuhn and Lara Vandello.

Consent Items: Discussion was held on the process of approving consent items. Shepherd motioned and
Klyn seconded to approve the Consent Items: October 18, 2021 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial
Reports as of October 31, 2021; November’s Bills; Review of School Board Policies: 4.0 General
Principles, 4.1 Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action, 4.2 Employee Physical Examination,
4.3 Communicable Diseases; there were no contracts or agreements and Open Enrollments in from
Christian Jarvis, 5th Grade from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary, Addie Heald 8th grade from
Ottumwa to the Jr/Sr High, Gracelyn Heald 4th Grade from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary and
Kadence Heald 9th Grade from Ottumwa to the Jr/Sr High and Open Enrollments out from Shelby
Provenzano, 10th Grade to Ottumwa. Questions were asked regarding board policy 4.1 Equal
Employment Opportunity and 4.3 Communicable Diseases. Superintendent Williamson will ask for
clarification from Mr. Brett Nitzschke from Lynch-Dallas Law Firm. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Houk recused himself from this item. Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to approve
the hires of Misty Sharp, para educator for the Jr/Sr High; Stephanie Houk, para educator at the
Blakesburg Elementary; Brandy Haines, .5 6th Grade / .5 Reading Interventionist at Fremont Elementary;
Rachel Tague, para educator at Eddyville Elementary; Adam Proctor, Jr High Wrestling coach; Jakeup
Huff, Social Studies at the Jr/Sr High and Tom Hallgren, Individual Speech. Motion carried unanimously. Van
Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to accept the resignations of Michael Pickney, Alternative Education
Teacher and Ashleigh Sammons, Cook. Motion carried unanimously.  Shepherd motioned and Klyn seconded to
approve Matt Kargol and Derek Eye as volunteer wrestling
coaches. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to vote for Trevor Crall for Area Education
Agency Board of Directors Election. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and
Vandello seconded to approve the early graduation request from Sylvia Burger. Motion carried
unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to set the date of public hearing for a
categorical fund transfer on December 20, 2021. Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and
Shepherd seconded to close and transfer dormant activity accounts of $340.18 in Jr High Softball to
Softball and $71.10 from Tri M Society to Activity Management. These accounts were noticed as
dormant by district auditors. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: None

Discussion Items: Superintendent Williamson updated the new board members on the board goals for the
superintendent. Upcoming board work sessions are being planned with a Facility Assessment work
session scheduled for Monday, November 29, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at the district office and another work
session with the Iowa Association of School Boards with the date to be determined. Superintendent
Williamson also informed the board on the need to purchase a special education van for wheelchair bound
students that would like to attend school activities outside of the regular school day, that he has a meeting
scheduled with the Classified Union representative regarding starting wages for all classified staff and
there might be a need to update the Revenue Purpose Statement. Open positions are: Elementary
Computer Science Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Alternative Education Teacher, Cook, Child Care
Associate, Activity Route Drive, Head Golf Coach, Head Football Coach, 9th Grade Baseball Coach, Jr
High Track, Baseball & Softball Coaches and substitutes for all positons.

Adjourn: Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried
unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:57 p.m.

 

November 29, 2021

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, November 29, 2021 for a board work session.

Board Work Session: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the board work
session to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, present; Lara Vandello,
present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, absent; and Doug
Brinegar present. Quorum established. Haselhuhn arrived at 6:14 p.m.

Work Session: Patrick Davis from Denovo and Tyler Riley from FEH met with the board of directors to
discuss the district’s objectives regarding facilities and maintenance for all of the school buildings. They
went over the assessment findings, by building cost for maintenance improvements, a possible short list
plan for summer 2022 projects and the long term vision for the district. A facility committee will be
created that will have board members Klyn, Houk and Brinegar representing the district as well as a
couple of community members and staff. This facility committee will meet approximately three or four
times.

Board recessed at 8:00 p.m. for a short break. Board resumed work session at 8:06 p.m. at which time,
Pam Bettger gave an overview to the board regarding Care for Kids curriculum for elementary students
grades Kindergarten to second. These short lessons will be taught by Mrs. Thomas, EBF’s elementary
guidance counselor and Ms. Bettger. Parents will be invited to attend a meeting to discuss these lessons
and will be given the opportunity to opt their children in for these lessons if they so choose.

Adjourn: Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to adjourn board work session. Meeting adjourned at 8:29 p.m.

 

December 20, 2021

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, December 20, 2021 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble,
Cathy Williamson, James Fineran, Tammy Davis, Ronda Glosser, Alma Marlin, Mike and Becky Roe and
others not signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular
board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, present; Lara Vandello,
present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, absent; and Doug
Brinegar, present. Quorum established.

Public Hearing- Categorical Fund Transfer Resolution: President Brinegar opened the Categorical Fund
Transfer Resolution public hearing at 6:00 p.m. With no one heard, the hearing was closed at 6:01 p.m.

Correspondence: None

Approve/Amend Agenda: Superintendent Williamson noted a small change to the agenda, that due to
the choir and band concerts at the Jr/Sr High School, Mr. Noble will be presenting his board report first.
Houk motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the amended agenda. Motion carried unanimously.

Presentation: Greg Frost from OPAA! gave a presentation to the board outlining what his food service
management company could do for the nutrition department.

Reports: Steve Noble, principal of the Jr/Sr High, presented his board report and updated the board on
the staffing and professional development at the Jr/Sr High School. Superintendent Williamson first
discussed the status of OSHA’s vaccination mandate and what steps the district needs to complete to be in
compliance if this mandate does not get overturned by the Supreme Court. Superintendent Williamson
also gave board members draft scenarios from his last meeting with Denovo and an update on General
Fund Expenditures reflecting changes to personnel salaries if the classified wages increases are approved
and an increase to the Utilities & Gas supplies due to the increase in price for gas and electricity. April
Glosser, Curriculum Director, shared with the board the goals that the administration team and leadership
team created for EBF, as well as professional development updates, elementary report cards and mid-year
testing. James Fineran, Principal at Fremont Elementary, gave the elementary principal’s report and
shared with the board all the activities the elementary students are doing leading up to the Christmas
break. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, gave an update on special education staff,
professional development, grant updates and branding of the Explore Academy. Other reports submitted,
but not read, were from the Daycare, Maintenance and Nutrition directors.

Consent Items: Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to approve the Consent Items: November 22,
2021 & November 29, 2021 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of November 30, 2021;
December’s Bills; Review of School Board Policies: 4.4 Employee Injury on the Job, 4.5 Employee
Conflict of Interest, 4.6 Employee Records, & 4.7 Transporting of Students by Employees; Contracts and
Agreements: 2021-2022 Grand View University Student Teaching Contract, 2021-2022 Facility Use
Agreement for Fremont Before & After Care, 2021-2022 Cooperative Sharing Agreements with Ottumwa
Community School District for both boys & girls swimming; and Open Enrollments in from Kastor Ford,
6th Grade from Oskaloosa and Open Enrollments out from Mackenzie Kool, 3rd Grade to Ottumwa and
Bentley Kool, 6th Grade to Ottumwa. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Van Mersbergen motioned and Vandello seconded to approve the hires of Aundrea Barnes,

special education teacher and Penny Allgood, cook. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned
and Vandello seconded to accept the resignations of Barb Scott, preschool teacher (effective at the end of
the 2021-22 school year); Kierra Tremmel, para educator; Diana Rust, cook; Sara Roach, para educator;
and Keegan VanDevender, Spanish teacher (effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year). Motion
carried unanimously.

Action Items: Houk motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the Flexibility Fund Transfer
from Home School Assistant Program to the General Fund in the amount of $100,000. Roll call vote:
Klyn, aye; Shepherd, aye; Vandello, aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, aye; Haselhuhn, absent; and
Brinegar, aye. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the
SBRC request for At-Risk Modified Allowable Growth in the amount of $312,459. Roll call vote: Klyn,
aye; Shepherd, aye; Vandello, aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, aye; Haselhuhn, absent; and Brinegar,
aye. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Board
Resolution 2021-4 for Safety Equipment Purchase. Roll call vote: Klyn, aye; Shepherd, aye; Vandello,
aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, aye; Haselhuhn, absent; and Brinegar, aye. Motion carried
unanimously. Vandello motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the proposed classified staff wage
increases and to set the starting salary for para educators and cooks to $11.50 per hour. Motion carried
unanimously.

Capital Projects: None

Discussion Items: Board members are to let Secretary McCrea know if they are interested in any of the
upcoming LASB Digital Workshops. Board members had some more questions regarding the OPAA!
presentation and would like to ask Tara Waldren to attend the January 17th board meeting to get her
opinion on the process. Van Mersbergen explained his concern the language in policy 4.3,

Communicable Diseases, and would like to see it spelled out more clearly that the district would be
speaking to a medical doctor with public health if needed and not just a public health official, who may or
may not have a medical degree. A special board meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 10, 2022 at
6:00 p.m., to have the first reading of the new policy needed for the OSHA vaccination mandate for
employers of 100+ employees. If the Supreme Court extends the stay or overturns the mandate, the
meeting will be cancelled. Immediate Open positions are Alternative Education Teacher, Cook, Para
Educator (2 needed), Child Care Associate, Activity Route Drive, Head Golf Coach, Head Football
Coach, 9th Grade Baseball Coach, Jr High Track, Baseball & Softball Coaches and substitutes for all
positons and Open Positions for the 2022-2023 school year are Preschool Teacher at Fremont Elementary,
2nd Grade Teacher at Fremont Elementary and Spanish Teacher at the Jr/Sr High School.

Adjourn: Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried
unanimously^ Meeting adjourned at 8:11 p.m.

 

January 17, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, January 17, 2022 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: April Glosser,
Steve Noble, James Fineran, Tammy Davis, Cathy Williamson, Michele Ratliff, Mike and Becky Roe,
Rusty and Judee Zook, and Tara Waldren.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular
board meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, present; Lara Vandello,
present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, absent; and Doug
Brinegar, present. Quorum established.

Correspondence: None

Approve/Amend Agenda: Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the amended
agenda. Motion carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson gave his board update on the upcoming Iowa legislative session,
negotiations and financial update. April Glosser, Curriculum Director, updated the board on professional
development and went over the iReady math data from winter testing. Steve Noble, principal of the Jr/Sr
High, discussed the First Robotics team, the business program’s Rocket Cafe, Science Olympiad and
second semester planning for the 2022-2023 school year. James Fineran, Principal at Fremont
Elementary, gave the elementary principal’s report and shared with the board an update of the return to
school for elementary students after the Christmas break. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services,
let the board know of two grants that the district had been awarded: 1) The COPS grant is approximately
$500,000 to be used for the purchase of supplies and equipment such as cameras, lighting, communication
systems and 2) The STOP grant which is approximately $1,000,000 to be shared with Davis County and
Albia for safety training and collaboration on crime prevention, trauma informed care, anonymous
reporting, suicide prevention and youth mental health. Superintendent Williamson presented the
combined report from the Nutrition Director and himself regarding questions that the board had relating
to the Request for Food Service Providers. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Daycare
and Maintenance directors.

Consent Items: Shepherd motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the Consent Items: December 20,

2021 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of December 31, 2021; January’s Bills; Review of
School Board Policies: 4.8 Credit Cards, 4.9 Release of Credit Information, 4.10 Child Abuse Reporting,
4.11 Abuse of Students by District Employees; the first reading of 7.12D Protest Procedure; Contracts
and Agreements: 2021-2022 SilverStone Group Service Agreement for GASB #75 OPEB and the 2021-
2022 Memorandum of Understanding for Stem Excellence & Leadership; and no Open Enrollments.
Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve the hire of Hannah Koellner, permanent
substitute at the Jr/Sr High School for the remainder of SY 2021-2022 and 2nd Grade Teacher at Fremont
Elementary beginning with SY 2022-2023. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and
Shepherd seconded to accept the resignations of Beth Hinshaw, para educator; Penny Allgood, cook;

Kiera MacPherson, assistant softball coach; and Jordan Lamb, para educator. Motion carried
unanimously.

Action Items: Van Mersbergen motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve transfer of funds from the
JH baseball activity account to the HS baseball activity account. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello

motioned and Houk seconded to approve the out of state travel request and board resolution FY22-5 for
Safety Equipment Purchase. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to
approve as part of the district’s response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the district’s
administration is authorized to submit a request to the School Budget Review Committee for funding
related to FY22 SWVPP increased enrollment in the amount of $32,521.50. Roll call vote: Klyn, aye;
Shepherd, aye; Vandello, aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, aye; Haselhuhn, absent; and Brinegar, aye.
Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: Superintendent Williamson told the board that the district is still in search of a wheel
chair accessible van for special education use and updated the board on the Facility Assessment
Committee meeting held Wednesday, January 12, 2022.

Discussion Items: Board members discussed the recent Supreme Court decision to put a stay on the
OSHA vaccination/testing mandate and discussed the school calendar for 2022-2023. Discussion
regarding the calendar included the possibility of a Spring Break being added as well as moving staff
development days from Fridays to Mondays. Building administrators are to seek input from their staff
members. The February board meeting will still take place on Monday, February 21st even though it is
President’s day. Open positions are Alternative Education Teacher, Cook, Para Educator (3 needed),
Child Care Associate, Activity Route Drive, Head Golf Coach, Head Football Coach, 9th Grade Baseball
Coach, Assistant Softball, Jr High Track, Baseball & Softball Coaches and substitutes for all positons and
Open Positions for the 2022-2023 school year are Preschool Teacher at Fremont Elementary and Spanish
Teacher at the Jr/Sr High School.

Adjourn: Houk motioned and Vandello seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried
unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:54 p.m

 

February 7, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district
office on Monday, February 7, 2022 for a special board meeting. Visitors in attendance: John VanZante
and others not signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the special board
meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Van Mersbergen called Point of Order, saying that the meeting was an illegal
meeting as board policy was not followed in calling the special meeting. President Brinegar denied the
point of order. Board policy 2.8: Meetings of the Board of Directors Letter E. states: Special meetings
may be called by the President, or by the Secretary upon request of a majority of the members of
the Board. Public notice will be given of special meetings. Superintendent Williamson explained
to the board that if the president does not call a special meeting, then a quorum of 4 board members
could request that the secretary call a special meeting.

Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, absent; Lara Vandello, present; Micah Van Mersbergen,
present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present via phone call; and Doug Brinegar, present.

Quorum established.

Personnel: Van Mersbergen called Point of Order on the hires stating that special meeting was called to
act on a single resignation and hires should not be added. Hires were stricken from the agenda. Van
Mersbergen called Point of Order stating that only the resignation received on February 3, 2022 should be
acted on. Second resignation was stricken from agenda. Houk motioned and Haselhuhn seconded to
accept the resignation from Joe Overton. Vandello stated she understood that board members are not
privy to information regarding an employee investigation, but was there not a power outage on January
21st for the whole town of Eddyville and did this have an effect on the smoothwall and could this be
relevant to the investigation. Superintendent Williamson stated that this only effected the student’s
smoothwall as they have different rights vs staff. Van Mersbergen called Point of Order and asked the
board to suspend the rules and allow any visitors attending to address the board. President Brinegar
denied the point of order, stating only one motion can be acted on at a time. Motion carried to accept the
resignation of Joe Overton with a vote of 4 ayes and 2 nays. Van Mersbergen motioned and Vandello
seconded to suspend the rules to allow visitors to address the board. 2/3rds vote is required to allow the
suspension of rules. Motion did not pass with a vote of 3 ayes and 3 nays. Since the motion did not pass,
Superintendent Williamson told the visitors that any that would like to discuss this can call and schedule a
meeting with him. Vandello requested to read a letter to the board and read it to everyone. Van
Mersbergen then stated that he didn’t know what happened, but did not think the situation was handled
properly. Parents had not been notified and so 12 to 15 students showed up for a zero-hour class with no
supervision. Parents should have been notified he felt.

Adjourn: Klyn motioned and Vandello seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried
unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 6:13 p.m.

 

February 21, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Monday, February 21, 2022 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Travis Johnson, Brianne Johnson, Keegan Van Devender, Jenny Van Zante, Ann Ohms, Melissa Reed-Appel, Mary Gutch, Michele Ratliff, Christopher Ellerston, Steve Noble, Cathy Williamson and others not signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, present; Lara Vandello, present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present; and Doug Brinegar, present. Quorum established.

Public Forum/Visitors Acknowledgement: Jenny Van Zante addressed the board regarding the following topics: cafeteria, instruction, technology, music department and public forum.

Correspondence: Secretary McCrea read the thank you note received from the family of Sheryl Friedman.

Approve/Amend Agenda: Vandello motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried unanimously.

Board President Comments: President Brinegar spoke to the board on expectations for all board members in board meetings, Robert's Rule of Order and that the board will have a work session with the Iowa Association of School Boards in the near future.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson gave the board an update on legislative news, financial update, curriculum updates and dates for the RFP for Nutrition Vendor. Steve Noble, principal of the Jr/Sr High, discussed the Behavior Student Assistance Team, the hiring of a long term substitute for the music department, Rocket Launch (senior interviews), and that the top 5% of the class of2022 are Carson Stetter, Emily Dicks, Kathryn Fairchild and Tanner Ray. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, updated the board regarding the upcoming STOP grant kickoffwebinar, transition meetings, para positions and the Explore Academy. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Curriculum Director, the Elementary Principals and the Activity, Daycare & Maintenance directors.

Consent Items: Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to approve the Consent Items: January 17, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of January 31, 2022; February's Bills; Change the numbering of board policies from chapters to series; Review of School Board Policies: 400.12 Hazardous Chemical Disclosure, 400.13 Employee Anti-Harassment, 400.14 Substance Free Workplace, 400.15 Drug and Alcohol Testing Program; the second reading of 700.12D Protest Procedure; Contracts and Agreements: Business Associate Agreement for Medicaid Data Sharing, STOP Consultant Contract and IHCC Contract for Composition II; and Open Enrollments: 2021-2022 Ryker Keeton, 5th Grade in from Albia to Blakesburg, family move, 2022-2033 Lillian Rockwell, 3rd Grade in from Albia to HSAP, Aaliyah Rockwell, 6th Grade in from Albia to HSAP, Coleman Tuller, 6th Grade in from Ottumwa to Blakesburg, Lydia De Groot, Kindergarten in from Twin Cedars to Eddyville Elementary, Adoniyah Van Maaf, 3rd Grade in from Oskaloosa to HSAP, Canaan Van Maaf, 2nd Grade in from Oskaloosa to HSAP, Peter Van Maaf, Kindergarten in from Oskaloosa to HSAP, Ruben Mendoza, Kindergarten in from Albia to Blakesburg Elementary, Bennett Eick, 4th Grade out to Ottumwa, Ellis Eick, 2nd Grade out to Ottumwa and Emmett Smith, Kindergarten out to Cardinal. Discussion on why we were changing the board policy from chapters to series. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Houk motioned and Klyn seconded to approve Megan Hole, Cook at Eddyville Elementary, Christopher Purdy, Para Educator at Fremont Elementary, Christopher Ellerston, Jazz Band, Dezirae Fairchild, Instrumental Varsity, all effective immediately, and Nathan Smith, Jr/Sr High Spanish Teacher for the 2022-2023 school year. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to accept the resignations of Jenna Bates, Fremont Kindergarten Teacher, Christopher Ellerston, Jr/Sr High Vocal Teacher and Lea Kunkel, Blakesburg Elementary Kindergarten Teacher, all effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. Discussion held regarding the need to rebuild the music department. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Houk motioned and Haselhuhn seconded to approve the Budget Guarantee Resolution FY22-06, Roll call vote: Klyn, aye; Shepherd, aye; Vandello, aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, aye; Haselhuhn, aye Brinegar, aye. Motion carried unanimously. Klyn motioned and Vandello seconded to set the Budget Hearing date to April 11, 2022 at 6:00 pm and the publication date between March 22nd and April l st. Small discussion, Van Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to amend the motion to include the change of the date of April's board meeting from the 18th to the 11th. Motion to change the motion carried unanimously, Amended motion carried unanimously, Van Mersbergen motioned and Shepherd seconded to increase the current weekly daycare rates for Infant, Toddler, and 3&4 year olds by five dollars a week effective May 1, 2022. Discussion held regarding Cargill and staffing issues. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: Superintendent Williamson gave an update regarding the facility committee's meetings. At the March board meeting, the committee will present its recommendations.

Discussion Items: Discussion was held regarding the upcoming 2022-2023 school calendar. Parents and classified staff will be surveyed regarding the addition of a Spring Break to the calendar and the moving of professional development days from Fridays to Mondays. Kathy Street has informed the board that she will be stepping down from being the editor for The Rocket newspaper. Superintendent Williamson would like to see if we can incorporate this into a class at the Jr/Sr High school, but does know that The Rocket newspaper is something the district would like to continue, either as a class or outside of the school day. The board discussed in length and came to unanimous consensus to add Public Forum back to the regular board meeting schedules. Open positions: Immediate Instrumental Music Teacher/Band Instructor - Jr/Sr High, Alternative Education Teacher, Physical Education Teacher - Jr/Sr High, Para Educator - Jr/Sr High, Cook - Eddyville Elementary, Child Care Associate, Activity Route Driver, Head Golf, 9th Grade Baseball, Junior High Track, Junior High Softball and Junior High Baseball and for the 2022-2023 School Year: Preschool Teacher - Fremont Elementary, Kindergarten Teacher at both Blakesburg & Fremont Elementary Buildings, Vocal Music Teacher - Jr/Sr High, Head Football Coach and Junior High Football Coach.

Adjourn: Vandello motioned and Shepherd seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:34 p.m.
     Board Secretary

 

March 21, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Monday, March 21, 2022 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble, April Glosser, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, James Fineran, Cathy Williamson, Ed Glenn, Patrick Davis and others not signed in.

Calendar Hearing: President Brinegar opened the calendar hearing at 6:00 p.m. Superintendent Williamson presented to the board the 2022-2023 School Calendar. First day for students is August 23, 2022 and the tentative last day of school scheduled for May 26, 2022. Total student hours are above the minimum required 1,080. Discussion was held regarding the proposed change of professional development days that are currently held on Friday to be on Monday for the 2022-2023 school year. Also discussed was adding a Spring Break from March 13th to March 17th. Parent and staff survey results were reviewed. With no comments from the public hearing closed at 6:10 p.m.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular board meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, present; Lara Vandello, present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present; and Doug Brinegar, present. Quorum established.

Public Forum: none

Correspondence: none.

Approve/Amend Agenda: Houk motioned and Vandello seconded to approve the amended agenda with the addition of: 6) Consent Item, d) Contracts & Agreements, vi) 2022-2027 MCG Internet Contract added. Motion carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson informed the board that the FY23 Budget had been submitted to the Ottumwa Courier, discussion was happening between the district and Head Start, update on negotiations, and that the board would be having a Board Workshop that will be presented by the Iowa Association of School Boards. Steve Noble, principal of the Jr/Sr High, updated the board on the upcoming ISASP tests, where in the hiring process he is on open positons and end of year activities. April Glosser, Curriculum Director, went over the FAST assessments from Winter testing. Ji1 Nelson, Principal of the Eddyville Elementary, gave the combined elementary principal's report that addressed Parent-Teacher Conferences and where they are in hiring process for their open positions. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, spoke on secondary transition news, the Explore Academy and upcoming events. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Daycare & Maintenance directors.

Consent Items: Shepherd motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the Consent Items: February 7, 2022 and February 21, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of February 28, 2022; March's Bills; and the Review of School Board Policies: 400.16 Employee Conduct and Appearance, 400.17 Employee Resignation, 400.18 Employee Suspension, and 400.19 Employee Publication or Creation of Materials and the first reading of 400.13: Communicable Diseases. Small discussion on the change to policy
400.13. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Contracts & Agreements: 2022-2023 Cooperative Agreement with the University of Northern Iowa, 2022-2023 Woodriver Energy Participation Agreement, 2022-2023 Business Associate Agreement with Hands Up Communications, 2022-2023 Cooperative Agreement with Morningside University, COPS & STOP Grant Evaluator Contracts and 2022-2027 MCG Internet Contract; and Open Enrollments: Out for 2021-2022: Graecie Wuebker, 11th Grade to Albia, Ella Manley, Kindergarten to Oskaloosa, Dominic
 
Manley, 1st Grade to Oskaloosa, Emma Cooper, 9th Grade to North Mahaska, Shawn Cooper, 7th Grade to North Mahaska, and Jackson Cooper, 5th Grade to North Mahaska; In for 2022-2023: Gracelyn Cowart, 3rd Grade from Wayne to HSAP, Kinsley Cowart, 5th Grade from Wayne to HSAP, Octavia Grotluschen, 1st Grade from Oskaloosa to HSAP, Emma Neis, 11th Grade from Ottumwa to Jr/Sr High, Ryker Glassgow, 1st Grade from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary, Laura Sarver, 1st Grade from Albia to HSAP, Miriam Sarver, 4th Grade from Albia to HSAP, Quinley Sanders, 4th Grade from Cardinal to HSAP, Emmit Payne, 5th Grade from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary, Gracie Beinhart, 10th Grade from Ottumwa to Jr/Sr High, Landon Van Donselaar, 9th Grade from Oskaloosa to Jr/Sr High, Abigail Grunig, Kindergarten from Moravia to HSAP; Out for 2022-2023: Noelle Campbell, 6th Grade to Ottumwa and Callie Watters, 10th Grade to Oskaloosa. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Houk motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve Troy Schutt, Spring Play Director, Alexis Kauzlarich, Jr High Track Coach, Kiera MacPherson, Jr High Track Coach, Hannah Koellner, Jr High Track Coach (pending completion of coaching authorization), Ashleigh Sammons, Cook, Helania McCoy, Jr High Instrumental Supplement, Haegen Boyer, Assistant Softball Coach, Carol Ann McNeese, Para Educator at the Jr/Sr High, Roxy Moorman, Preschool Teacher at Fremont Elementary for the 2022- 2023 school year, Alexander Holt, Social Studies at the Jr/Sr High for the 2022-2023 school year, Amanda Frahm, Kindergarten Teacher at Fremont Elementary for the 2022-2023 school year, and Jeffery Whitehall, Physical Education Teacher at the Jr/Sr High, Head Football Coach and Summer Weight Room Supervision for the 2022-2023 school year. Discussion was held regarding social media posts of a prospective employee, the number of applications received for most open positions, and the timing for the approval of Jr High Track Coaches. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Klyn seconded to accept the resignations of Jason Messamaker, Social Studies Teacher at the Jr/Sr High, · effective March 11, 2022, Brittany Bankson, Cook at Eddyville Elementary, effective February 24, 2022, Misty Sharp, Para Educator at the Jr/Sr High, effective March 11, 2022, Roger Kalke, Bus Driver, effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year, Barbara Moffitt, 5th Grade Teacher at Fremont, effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year, Nicole Lindenman, 1st Grade Teacher at Eddyville Elementary, effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year, Jim Woods, Assistant Volleyball Coach, Mary Woods, 9th Grade Volleyball Coach and Angela Koebke, Junior High Student Council effective at the end of the 2021-2022 school year. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to approve the RFP for Phone Systems. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Incentive Bonus Board Resolution FY22-07. This incentive bonus of $1,000 will be paid to all contracted staff that were not included in Governor Reynold's Teacher Retention bonus or those not included in the Iowa Department of Human Services recruitment or retention bonus. This bonus will be paid to these employees on May 27, 2022. Roll Call: Klyn, aye; Shepherd, aye; Vandello, aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, abstained; Haselhuhn, aye and Brinegar, aye. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to approve the draft graduate list for the class of 2022. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the 2022-2023 School Year Calendar that included a Spring Break from March 13-March 17 and with Monday professional development days.
Discussion held regarding the movement of professional development days. Motion carried. Superintendent Williamson presented the board with the Facility Committee's recommendations. Shepherd motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the Facility Committee's Recommendations. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: None

Discussion Items: Discussion was held on the Budget Amendment, SEL (Social Emotional Leaming) the Indian Hills Board/Superintendent Appreciation Dinner on April 26th at 6:00 pm, Preschool/Headstart and IASB Workshop with an April 18, 2022 date selected. Open positions: Immediate Openings:
 
Alternative Education Teacher, Physical Education Teacher - Jr/Sr High, Para Educator - Jr/Sr High, Child Care Associate, Activity Route Driver, Head Golf, 9th Grade Baseball, Junior High Softball and Junior High Baseball and for the 2022-2023 School Year: Kindergarten Teacher - Blakesburg Elementary, 2nd Grade Teacher - Eddyville Elementary, 5th Grade Teacher - Fremont Elementary, Vocal Music Teacher - Jr/Sr High, Instrumental Music Teacher/Band Instructor - 5th/6th/Jr/Sr High, Junior High Social Studies - Jr/Sr High, Head Wrestling Coach, Assistant Volleyball Coach, 9th Grade Volleyball Coach and Junior High Football Coach.

Adjourn: Houk motioned and Shepherd seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 8:21 p.m.

 

 

Doug Brinegar Board President

 

April 1, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Friday, April 1, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. for a special board meeting. Visitors in attendance: none.

Special Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular board meeting to order at 9:02 a.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, absent; Lara Vandello, present via Zoom; Micah Van Mersbergen, absent; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present; and Doug Brinegar, present. Quorum established.

Personnel: Houk motioned and Haselhuhn seconded to approve Kjerstin Ridgway, Head Golf Coach. Motion carried unanimously. Haselhuhn motioned and Vandello seconded to approve Curt Johnston, Volunteer Golf Coach and Scott Williamson, Volunteer Golf Coach. Motion carried unanimously.

Adjourn: Houk motioned and Vandello seconded to adjourn meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 9:04 a.m.

 

 

i3oogBrinegar
Board President    Board Secretary

 

April 11, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Monday, April 11, 2022 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Steve Noble, April Glosser, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, James Fineran, Cathy Williamson, and others not signed in.

Budget Hearing: President Brinegar opened the budget hearing at 6:00 p.m. Superintendent Williamson presented to the board the 2022-2023 Budget with the total property tax rate set at $10.8251 down from the 2021-2022 tax rate of $10.8320. With no comments from the public, hearing closed at 6:25 p.m.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order - Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular board meeting to order at 6:10 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, absent; Rena Shepherd, present; Lara Vandello, present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present; and Doug Brinegar, present. Quorum established.

Public Forum: none

Correspondence: none.

Approve/Amend Agenda: Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to approve the amended agenda with the change of the date on 8) Action Items, b) 2021-2022 Budget - Set Amendment Hearing i) May 18, 2022 to be May 16, 2022. Motion carried unanimously.

Reports: April Glosser, Curriculum Director, gave updates on professional development, Character Strong curriculum and data analysis in reading, math and science. Steve Noble, principal of the Jr/Sr High, updated the board on the events taking place in April, including the Spring play, Iowa Jazz Championships, State FFA Convention, Build My Future and the robotics competition at UNI. Jam.es Fineran, Principal of the Fremont Elementary, gave the combined elementary principal's report that addressed new hires for the 2022-2023 school year. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, informed the board that work has begun on staffing adjustments for the next school year as well as grants that EBF has been awarded. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Childcare, Maintenance & Nutrition directors.

Consent Items: Van Mersbergen motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve the Consent Items: March 21, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of March 31, 2022; April's Bills; the second reading of School Board Policy 400.3 Communicable Diseases; the Review of School Board Policies:
400.20 Licensed Employee Tutoring, 400.21 Substitute Teachers, 400.22 Summer School Licensed Employees and 400.23 School Volunteers; Contracts & Agreements: 2022-2023 Sharing Agreement with Ottumwa CSD for Agricultural Education Classes & Agri Power FFA, Operational Sharing Agreements for Social Worker with Great Prairie AEA, Transportation Director with North Mahaska CSD, Maintenance Director with North Mahaska CSD, and Human Resource Director with Oskaloosa CSD; and Open Enrollments for 2022-2023: IN: Deanika Poe, Kindergarten from Albia to HSAP, Karver Jemison, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, Casten Hatfield, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, Gracelynn Dodd, 8th Grade from Pekin to HSAP, Jade Dodd, 9th Grade from Pekin to HSAP, Harper Wickenkamp, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, Lennon Fairchild, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, Ellie Mae Mall, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to HSAP, Kinlee Whitten, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Fremont Elementary, Makinlee Ver Steegh, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to Eddyville Elementary, OUT: Beckett Strasko, Kindergarten to Cardinal, Kole Speer, 6th Grade to Pella, Kassi Speer, 10th Grade to Pella, Dakota Myers, 10th Grade to Oskaloosa, Tucker Glosser, Kindergarten to Davis County. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to approve for 2021-2022: Micheal Pilcher, paid prep period & zero hour - $2,343.90, Loghan Hunt, Para Educator, $11.50/hr, Donavan Young, 9th Grade Baseball Coach (10%/2) $2,740.00 and for 2022-2023: Justin Von Ahsen, 5th/6th/Jr High Instrumental Music Teacher/Band Instructor (BA 30/8) $48,091.00, nine years of experience, 20 extra days, $4,545.40, Assistant Competitive Band, (3%/0) $821.00 and Jr High Instrumental, (9%/0) $2,462.00, Desiree Law, Vocal Music Teacher at Jr/Sr High, (BA/8) $45,578.00, eight years of experience, Varsity/JV Vocal, (11%/0) $3,009.00, Jr High Vocal, (3%/0) $821.00 and Tri-M, (2%/0) $547.00, Shawna Padgett, 2nd Grade Teacher at Eddyville Elementary, (BA/1) $36,781.00, first year teacher, Kaelyn Strong, Kindergarten at Blakesburg Elementary, (BAil) $36,781.00, first year teacher, Ryan Jackson, Assistant Football Coach (10%/4) $2,954.00, Jesse Riley, Assistant Football Coach (10%/5) $2,954.00, Alexander Holt, Assistant Football Coach (10%/0) $2,735.00, Micheal Pilcher, Jr High Football Coach (7%/3)
$1,991.00, Gladys Genskow, Head Volleyball Coach (13%/11) $4,267.00, Kiera MacPherson, Jr High Volleyball Coach (7%/3) $1,991.00, Alexis Kauzlarich, Head Cross County (9%/4) $2,658.00, Bob Shepherd, Assistant Cross County (4%/5) $1,182.00, Tony Fenton, Head Girls Basketball Coach (13%/11) $4,267.00, Mike Haywood, Assistant Girls Basketball Coach (10%/6) $3,063.00, Alexis Kauzlarich, 9th Grade Girls Basketball Coach (10%/5) $2,954.00, Ryan Jackson, Jr High Girls Basketball Coach (8.5%/4) $2,511.00
Travis Stout, Head Boys Basketball Coach (13%/11) $4,267.00, Andy Heinle, 9th Grade Boys Basketball Coach (10%/2) $2,844.00. Motion carried unanimously, with Shepherd abstaining. Van Mersbergen motioned and Vandello seconded to accept the resignations of Dawn Black, Special Education Teacher at the Jr/Sr High and Jill Thompson, Business Teacher at Jr/Sr High, both effective at the end of the 2021- 2022 school year. Small discussion held on replacing of business teacher. Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to approve 2022-2023 Budget. Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Shepherd seconded to approve to set the 2021-2022 Budget Amendment hearing to May 16, 2022. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to approve the MOU for 2022-2024 Wages for Classified staff, with 25 cent wage increase and change to base wages. Discussion held. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to amend the motion to increase wages by 35 cents. Motion failed. Discussion held regarding how contracts are paid to staff.
Van Mersbergen motioned and Vandello seconded to amend the motion to include paying classified staff over 12 months vs the 9 months they are currently being paid. Motion carried unanimously with Houk abstaining. Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to approve the Certified Master Contract for 2022- 2024 Tentative Agreement. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the Administrators/Fiscal/Other Contracts for 2022-2023. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve the purchase of 300 Chromebooks and 100 Samsung tablets with the Emergency Connectivity Funds. Small discussion held with board recommending that these will be used with upper elementary students to ease their transition to the Jr/Sr High. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Vandello seconded to approve Board Resolution FY22-08 Safety Equipment in the amount of $2,140.19 for reconditioning/purchase of football helmets & pads ($1,051.19), for the purchase of 10 new helmets for softball ($400.00) and for a heavy duty screen for baseball ($689.00). Roll call vote: Klyn, absent; Shepherd, yes; Vandello, yes; Van Mersbergen, yes: Houk, yes; Haselhuhn, yes; and Brinegar, yes. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the preschool rates for 4-year-old students to
$150.00/month for the 2022-2023 school year. Motion carried unanimously. Shepherd motioned and Houk seconded to approve Headstart renting two rooms at the daycare for 3-yr-old preschool for the 2022-2023 school year. Discussion was held. Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded the vote for Headstart so Superintendent Williamson could get the answer to the following questions: How will the lunches work with students eating our meals? Do they have a mask mandate? Why are they not operating in Oskaloosa or Ottumwa next year? Do they have a minimum regarding enrollment? Motion tabled.

Capital Projects: None

Discussion Items: Superintendent Williamson informed the board of various curriculum changes for the Jr/Sr High next year, including a Reading teacher, School Within a School Teacher, offering a journalism class along with the annual/yearbook and reminded the board members about the Indian Hills Board/Superintendent Appreciation Dinner on April 26th at 6:00 pm. Open positions: Immediate Openings: Child Care Associate, Activity Route Driver, Junior High Softball and Junior High Baseball and for the 2022-2023 School Year: School within a School Teacher - Jr/Sr High, Business Teacher - Jr/Sr High, 5th Grade Teacher - Fremont Elementary, Junior High Social Studies Teacher - Jr/Sr High and the following coaching positons: Junior High Football, Assistant Volleyball, 9th Grade Volleyball, Junior High Volleyball, Junior High Girls Basketball, Assistant Boys Basketball, Junior High Boys Basketball (2), Head Wrestling, Assistant Wrestling, and Junior High Wrestling.

Adjourn: Shepherd motioned and Vandello seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m.

 

 

Board Secretary

 

April 18, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Monday, April 18, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. for a board work session.

Board Work Session: Call to Order- Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the board work session to order at 6:01 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, absent; Lara Vandello, present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present; and Doug Brinegar present. Quorum established.

Work Session: Lou Ann Gvist from Iowa Association of School Boards held a board development workshop with the board. Topics the board reviewed and collaborated on were What is Governance; roles of the board, roles of the superintendent, sample roles in staff evaluation, discussion on board policy, addressing concerns, questions and complaints, and evaluation requirements for the superintendent. The idea to have a 360 survey sent to all staff for per building and district wide input was discussed. Superintendent Williamson will work on getting this anonymous survey out to staff prior to the end of the school year.

Adjourn: Houk motioned and Klyn seconded to adjourn board work session. Work Session adjourned at 8:22 p.m.

 

 

D egar
Board President    Board Secretary

 

May 16, 2022

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Monday, May 16, 2022 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: April Glosser, Jil Nelson, Tammy Davis, James Fineran, Cathy Williamson, Mike & Becky Roe, Travis Johnson, Karen Fairchild, Lillian Fairchild, David Hall, Angie Hall, Stephanie Houk, Cheyenne Houk, Lylah Houk, Cord Houk, Greg Frost, Deb Newell, Burl Newell, Adam Bahr, Megan Bahr, Madison Bahr and others not signed in.

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order – Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, absent, Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, present, Lara Vandello, present via Zoom meeting; and Doug Brinegar, present. Quorum established. Rena Shepherd joined Zoom meeting at 6:01 p.m.

2021-2022 EBF Budget Amendment Hearing: President Brinegar opened the budget hearing at 6:00
p.m. Superintendent Williamson explained how budget amendments are not uncommon especially with the influx of COVID relief funds and went over which funds will be amended. With no comments from the public, hearing closed at 6:03 p.m.

Presentation: Travis Johnson, along with numerous student archers, spoke to the board regarding this year’s season as well as the national tournament in Louisville, Kentucky. EBF had 10 archers attend the national tournament.

Public Forum: none

Correspondence: none.

Approve/Amend Agenda: Houk motioned and Haselhuhn seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried unanimously.

Reports: Superintendent Williamson went over current financials and the list of summer maintenance projects. April Glosser, Curriculum Director, presented 2022 Spring FAST results, 2022 iReady Math Diagnostic Results, and iReady Reading Diagnostic Results. Tammy Davis, principal of the Blakesburg Elementary gave the combined elementary principal’s board report and updated the board on end of year activities and current hires for next year. Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, presented her board report on Special Education billing, hiring of a new special education teacher, a pizza party that students were invited to attend that was held by the Knights of Columbus in Albia and the following para educators have completed the para certification course: Megan Bahr, Theresa DeWitt, Lacy Fowler, Stephanie Houk, Bryanna Lobberecht, Cindy Purdy, Rachel Tague and Shyanne Vanderhyde. Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Jr/Sr High Principal, and the Childcare & Nutrition directors.

Consent Items: Van Mersbergen motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the Consent Items 8a to 8d: April 1, 2022, April 11, 2022 & April 18, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of April 30, 2022; May’s Bills; the Review of School Board Policies: 400.24 Substitutes for Classified Personnel,
400.25 Public Complaints about Employees, 400.26 Employee Family & Medical Leave and 400.27 Nepotism; Contracts & Agreements: 2022-2023 Iowa Wesleyan University Teacher Cooperative Agreement, 2022-2023 Indian Hills CC Contract for Educational Services, and 2022-2023 Central College Teacher Cooperative Agreement. Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Vandello seconded to approve Open Enrollments for 2022-2023: IN: Kiptyn Ford, Kindergarten from Oskaloosa to
 
Eddyville Elementary, Easton Barnard, Kindergarten from Pekin to Fremont Elementary, Jordan Day, Kindergarten from Albia to Blakesburg Elementary, Stella Daugherty, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to Blakesburg Elementary and Morgan Simmons, Kindergarten from Albia to Blakesburg Elementary and OUT: Everly Sammons, Kindergarten to Oskaloosa. Motion carried unanimously.

Personnel: Van Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to approve for 2021-2022: Elizabeth Overturf, JH Softball Coach, and Randy Malloy & Tyler Ford, JH Baseball coaches, pending completion of transitional coaching license. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve Rena Whitehall for 1st Grade Teacher at Fremont Elementary. Motion carried unanimously.
Klyn motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Dimitri Boyer for School within a School Teacher and Head Wrestling Coach. Small discussion. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve Megan Lehman for Business Teacher at the Jr/Sr High. Small discussion. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Klyn seconded to approve Clayton Hansen for Jr/Sr High Social Studies teacher. Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Patricia Ver Ellen for 5th Grade Teacher at Blakesburg Elementary. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Klyn seconded to approve Hailey Gillum for Special Education Teacher at the Jr/Sr High. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Melissa Van Donselaar as Head Cheerleading Sponsor. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Barbara Moffit for 5th Grade Teacher at Eddyville Elementary. Small discussion. Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Vandello seconded to approve the resignations of Christopher Purdy, para educator at Fremont Elementary, effective April 14th, Chad Willis, Jr/Sr High Counselor, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year, Jillian Van Donselaar, 5th Grade Teacher at Eddyville Elementary, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year, Kaylee Cloyed, 5th Grade Teacher at Blakesburg Elementary, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year, Shannon Riggenbach, Jr/Sr High Math teacher, effective at the end of the 2021- 22 school year and Elizabeth Overturf, Jr/Sr High Math teacher, effective at the end of the 2021-22 school year. Small discussion held on increasing support for all the new staff for the 2022-23 school year.
Motion carried unanimously.

Action Items: Klyn motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the 2021-2022 Budget Amendment. Roll Call vote: Klyn, yes; Shepherd, yes; Vandello, yes; Van Mersbergen, yes; Houk, yes; Haselhuhn, yes; and Brinegar, yes. Motion carried unanimously. Secretary McCrea restated the tabled motion from the April 11, 2022 meeting Headstart renting two rooms at the daycare for 3-yr-old preschool for the 2022-2023 school year. Superintendent Williamson’s recommendation is to not approve Headstart renting rooms for a 3-yr old preschool next year. Discussion was held on if the Eddyville Childcare had a 3-yr old program and why we needed to allow 3-yr olds to attend our preschool. Superintendent Williamson stated the revenue from allowing 3-yr olds to attend our preschool program allows the district to continue to offer a 5-day program. State funding is only for half day preschool and the rest of the funding must come from outside the general fund. Motion failed unanimously. Klyn motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve Nolte, Cornman & Johnson P. C’s RFP for auditing services for FY 2022-2025. Motion carried unanimously. Haselhuhn motioned and Vandello seconded to approve the RFP for Food Service Management of Opaa! Discussion was held regarding the need for a food service management company, training before school starts, who is responsible for monitoring family lunch account balances and hiring process for new staff. Motion carried, 4 yes, 2 nays. Van Mersbergen motioned and Haselhuhn seconded to approve the RFP for phone system to American Business Phones. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve the Access Systems Copier and Printers proposal. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the purchase of 27 Smart TVs and hardware to place a Smart TV in all elementary classrooms ($30,000) and 100 – 2in1 Chromebooks ($40,000). Small discussion. Motion carried unanimously. Van Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to approve the early graduation request of Lillian Fairchild. Ms. Fairchild will have enough credits to graduate at the end of her junior year and plans to attend medical school. The board wished Ms. Fairchild success in her academic career. Motion carried unanimously.

Capital Projects: None

Discussion Items: May is School Board Recognition Month and Superintendent Williamson thanked the board for their service to our community. A 360 Survey will be sent out to all staff prior to the end of the school year. Each staff member will evaluate their building administrators. Iowa Association of School Boards also sent out a summary letter from the board workshop held April 18th. Open positons: Immediate Openings: Child Care Associate, 5th Grade Teacher – Blakesburg Elementary, Junior High Generalist Teacher – Jr/Sr High, Senior High Math Teacher – Jr/Sr High, Guidance Counselor – Jr/Sr High, Behavior Interventionist – Explore Academy and the following coaching positons: Junior High Football, Assistant Volleyball, 9th Grade Volleyball, Junior High Volleyball, Junior High Girls Basketball, Assistant Boys Basketball, Junior High Boys Basketball (2), Assistant Wrestling, and Junior High Wrestling.

Adjourn: Houk motioned and Klyn seconded to adjourn board meeting. Motion carried unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.

 

 

Doug Brinegar    Mary McCrea
Board President    Board Secretary

 

June 20, 2022

 

The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont Community School District Board of Directors met at the district office on Monday, May 16, 2022 for a regular board meeting. Visitors in attendance: Tammy Davis, Cathy Williamson, Steve Noble, and Michele Ratliff.

 

Regular Board Meeting: Call to Order – Establish Quorum: President Brinegar called the regular board meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Roll call: Eric Klyn, present; Rena Shepherd, absent; Lara Vandello, present; Micah Van Mersbergen, present; Curt Houk, present; Mark Haselhuhn, absent; and Doug Brinegar, present. Quorum established. Mark Haselhuhn arrived at 6:03 p.m.

 

Public Forum: none

 

Correspondence: none.

 

Approve/Amend Agenda: Vandello motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the agenda.  Motion carried unanimously.

 

Reports: Superintendent Williamson went over current financial balances, account balance summaries and staff years of service awards.  Steve Noble, principal at the Jr/Sr High school gave the board an update on the last couple days of school, 6-year discipline data and staffing for next year.  Tammy Davis, principal at Blakesburg Elementary gave the combined elementary principal’s board report and updated the board on summer projects, staffing changes, summer school, online registration and School Administrators conference in August.  Cathy Williamson, Director of Special Services, updated the board on staffing of behavior interventionists and para educators, STOP & COPS Grants, and the para apprenticeship grant.  Other reports submitted, but not read, were from the Childcare, Maintenance & Nutrition directors.

 

Consent Items: Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve the Consent Items 8a to 8d: May 31, 2022 Board Meeting Minutes; Financial Reports as of May 31, 2022; June’s Bills; the Review of School Board Policies: 400.28 Gifts to Employees, 400.28 Employee Use of Cell Phones, 400.30 Employee Use of Social Media, and 500.0 Objectives for Equal Educational Opportunities for Students; Contracts & Agreements: Resurfacing Agreement between EBF and the city of Fremont, KIIC Radio Livestreaming of Events, STOP Grant Contract for Emergency Maps, Student Assurance Services for Student Accident Voluntary Insurance and Catastrophic Student Accident Insurance, 2022-23 Buena Vista’s Student teaching agreement, and three 2022-23 Student Rise contracts with IHCC,  DeVries Counseling & Consulting for 2022-23, Hamilton Produce Pay on Deliver for 2022-23, Shared Librarian services with Great Prairie AEA for 2022-23 and the voluntary Dental Renewal Rates for 2022-2023. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Klyn seconded to approve Open Enrollments for 2022-2023: IN: Reneya Hammond, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to HSAP, Amelia Hare, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to Blakesburg, Atlas Cook, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to Fremont Elementary, Jonesy Rupe, Kindergarten from Ottumwa to HSAP, Briar Lettington, 6th Grade from Oskaloosa to Eddyville (family move), Hadley Lettington, 4th Grade from Oskaloosa to Eddyville (family move), William Swim, Kindergarten from Pekin to Eddyville, Carly Jo Rupprecht, 7th Grade from Pella to Jr/Sr High and MaClain Main, 11th Grade from Oskaloosa to Jr/Sr High. Motion carried unanimously.

 

Personnel:  Van Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to approve for 2022-2023: Jessica Bremer, Art Teacher at Jr/Sr High; Emily Hale, Social Studies Teacher at Jr/Sr High; Rhea McDowell, 4th Grade Teacher at Blakesburg Elementary; Michelle Meador, Regular Route Driver; Buffie Ritz, Generalist Teacher at Jr/Sr High; Heather Snook, 6th Grade Teacher at Blakesburg Elementary; Amy Spurgeon, Counselor at Jr/Sr High, MacKenzie Vanskike, Behavior Interventionist at Blakesburg Elementary; and Joni Elder, Behavior Interventionist at Blakesburg Elementary.  Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to accept the resignations of Randy Alger, Regular Route Driver; Laura Allar, 2nd Grade Teacher at Blakesburg Elementary; Tiffany Bagley, English Language Arts Teacher at Jr/Sr High; Tasha Jensen, 4th Grade Teacher at Blakesburg Elementary; Tyler Paisley, Social Studies Teacher at Jr/Sr High; John Thompson, English Language Arts at Jr/Sr High; Vanessa Worrell, Art Teacher at Jr/Sr High and Becky Roe, Cook at Fremont Elementary. Discussion held on difficulty of replacing some positions and on requirements for bus drivers to get license.  Motion carried unanimously. 

 

Action Items: Vandello motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the 2022-2023 IPSIP Insurance renewal for Workman’s Compensation, Property & Casualty and Cyber Liability.  Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the 2022-2023 SU Breakage Insurance Renewal.  Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve the quote for the purchase of 4 POS Terminals for the Nutrition Department.  Small discussion on why new machines were needed.  Motion carried unanimously.  Vandello motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the additional supplemental contract of Competitive Robotics at 6.5% of the supplemental salary base.  Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to approve the Capital Construction Projects: at Blakesburg Elementary - West side commons door entrance and a 40x167 lot; at the Jr/Sr High - driveway entrance of 787 square feet; and at Fremont Elementary - West side sidewalk, steps included with removal, front door canopy entrance area and entrance for buses 25 fee of sidewalk.  Total project quoted at $72,920.00. Motion carried unanimously. Vandello motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the quote from Todd Kelsey in the amount of $28,000.00 to remove and lay brick to replace the East wall of the Blakesburg West Building.  Small discussion regarding disposal of old bricks and the confidence that this repair is all that is needed.  Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Van Mersbergen seconded to approve the early graduation request of Destiny Bankson at the completion of the first semester of the 2022-2023 school year.  The board wishes Ms. Bankson success in her academic career.  Motion carried unanimously. Houk motioned and Klyn seconded to approve the purchase of 60 Dell Latitude 5531 for the quoted amount of $63,263.40. Discussion held on difference between these computers and the Surfaces previously approved.  Motion carried unanimously.  Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to set the substitute teacher pay rate for 2022-2023 to $140.00/day or $70/half day.  Discussion held on what other area schools pay and the difficulty of obtaining substitute teachers.  Van Mersbergen motioned and Houk seconded to table this motion to July to allow more research. Motion tabled Motion carried unanimously.    

 

Capital Projects: Superintendent Williamson gave a list of all the summer projects that the district would like to get completed prior to school starting in August. Unfortunately, elementary playground equipment will need to be replaced next summer as with current supply chain issues, items cannot get here this summer. An outdoor storage building is needed at the Jr/Sr High. 

 

Discussion Items: The board discussed options for continuing the Rocket newspaper.  Superintendent Williamson asked if the district could advertise for someone to take over the Rocket and include the website as well to the position so that articles could go directly to website in the live feed.  Superintendent Williamson also let the board know that we have reached capacity in some grades in certain elementary buildings as well as the junior high and that the district should look at a board policy regarding open enrollment when class sizes reach a certain amount.  Open positons: Home School Assistant Teacher, Regular Route Driver, Junior High English Language Arts Teacher, Senior High English Language Arts Teacher, Senior  High Math Teacher, 2nd Grade Classroom teacher at Blakesburg Elementary, Custodian at Fremont Elementary, Para Educators: 3 at the Jr/Sr High, 1 at Blakesburg Elementary & 1 at Fremont Elementary and the following coaching positons: Junior High Football, Assistant Volleyball, 9th Grade Volleyball, Junior High Volleyball, Junior High Girls Basketball, Assistant Boys Basketball, Junior High Boys Basketball (2), Assistant Wrestling, and Junior High Wrestling.

 

Board took a break at 8:02 p.m.  Board resumed meeting at 8:09 p.m.

 

Closed Session- per Iowa Code Section 21.5 {1}(i) Superintendent Evaluation:  Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to go into closed session for the superintendent evaluation.  Roll Call Vote: Klyn, aye; Shepherd, absent; Vandello, aye; Van Mersbergen, aye; Houk, aye; Haselhuhn, aye; and Brinegar, aye.  Motion carried unanimously.  Board went into closed session at 8:09 p.m.  Board exited closed session at 9:23 p.m.

 

Adjourn:  Vandello motioned and Houk seconded to adjourn board meeting.  Motion carried unanimously.  Meeting adjourned at 9:23 p.m.

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                   

Doug Brinegar                                                  Mary McCrea

Board President                                                 Board Secretary