ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

July 8, 2024

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session in the Boardroom, Performing Arts Center, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa at 7:00pm. on the above date. 

 

Present:              Lany Mitchell, Tom Nugent, Jay Limbaugh, Rodney Davis, Andrea Vinci 

Absent:               Brent Owen, Todd Louwagie

Others Present: Superintendent Joe Carter, Secretary Lisa Chapman, Molly Montag

 

All motions are unanimously approved unless noted.

 

Approve Agenda:  Nugent moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Limbaugh. Motion carried.

 

Consent Items:   Vinci moved to approve the consent items and Mitchell seconded. Motion carried.

 

Superintendent Report: Carter gave a summer sports recap. Post season will begin on July 11th at Clear Lake for softball and July 12th at Webster City for baseball. There is one teacher position not filled, High School English, and do not anticipate filling that position this upcoming year. Administration is hopeful that they will be early in the hiring process for 2025-2026. The Fieldhouse is progressing well. The steel building is set to arrive on August 8. The board retreat will be August 6th and the topics currently on the agenda include the cell phone policy, financial forecast, behavior needs and school safety (ALICE) training.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies-2nd Reading:  Mitchell moved to approve the second reading of the following policies: 503.04 Good Conduct Rule, 503.05 Corporal Punishment, 503.06 Physical Restraint & Seclusion of Students. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Board Policies 1st Reading: The first reading of board policies was held for the following policies: 504.01 Student Government, 504.02 Student Organizations, 504.04 Student Performances and 504.06 Student Activity Program. The second reading will be held in August.

 

Appointments: Vinci moved to appoint the following individual(s) for positions for the 2024-2025 school year:

Steve Avery as legal counsel

James Rotert as the Equity Coordinator 

Joe Carter as the Level I Child Abuse Investigator

Algona Police Department as the Level II Child Abuse Investigators

Joe Carter as the Harassment Investigator

Joe Carter, James Rotert, Jared Cecil, Brad Sudol and Jill Schutjer as the 504/ADA Coordinators

Joe Carter as the Affirmative Action Coordinator

Jill Schutjer as the Homeless Coordinator

Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

2024-2025 Legislative Priorities: Nugent moved to approve the following as the priorities of the Algona CSD: 1) Teacher Recruitment & Licensure, 2) Supplemental State Aid, and 3) Mental Health. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Out of State Football Trip: Vinci moved to approve the leadership retreat to Lanesboro, MN for the senior football players on August 8 through the 9th. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

RESOLUTION NAMING DEPOSITORIES

 

Davis moved that it be RESOLVED, that the Board of Education of the Algona Community School District in Kossuth County, Iowa, approves the following list of financial institutions to be depositories of the Algona Community School District funds in conformance with all applicable provisions of Iowa Code Chapter 12C.  The Treasurer is hereby authorized to deposit the Algona Community School district funds in amounts not to exceed the maximum approved for each respective financial institution as set out below. Seconded by Limbaugh.

 

DEPOSITORY NAME LOCATION MAXIMUM BALANCE

Iowa State Bank Algona, IA $20,500,000

Farmers State Bank Algona, IA $8,000,000

Northwest Bank Algona, IA $9,000,000

Security State Bank Algona, IA $500,000

UMB Des Moines, IA $20,000,000

 

CERTIFICATION I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and correct copy of a resolution of the Algona Community School District adopted at a meeting of said public body, duly called and held the 8th day of July, 2024, a quorum being present, as said resolution remains of record in the minutes of said meeting, and it is now in full force and effect.

 

Dated this 8th day of July, 2024

 

         _____Lisa Chapman__________________________________

Board Secretary

Algona Community School

Ayes: Davis, Limbaugh, Mitchell, Vinci, Nugent

Nays: None

Absent: Owen, Louwagie

 

2024-2025 Nutrition Fund Pricing: Vinci moved to increase the cost of meals by $ .10 to keep up with rising food costs. Prices have not been increased since 2019. Mitchell seconded the motion. Motion carried.

 

Open Enrollment: There are three (3) open enrollment applications filed. Nugent moved to approve the applications. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Resignations:   Vinci moved to approve the following resignations: Amber Becker-Teacher Associate and Baylor Rachow-Custodian. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

Contracts:  Limbaugh moved to approve Damaris Eilerts Torres-Translator, Nick Lane-Transportation Director, Shelby Meyer-Teacher Associate at Lucia Wallace and Lilly Divis-Teacher Associate at Lucia Wallace. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Mitchell moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:26p.m. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

_______________________________ ______________________________

Board President Board Secretary

 

ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

August 6, 2024

 

The Board of Directors of the newly organized Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in a work session at the Louscher Farm, Algona, Iowa at 5:31pm. on the above date. 

 

Present:          Lany Mitchell, Andrea Vinci, Todd Louwagie, Tom Nugent, Rodney Davis (arrived 6:25pm)

Absent:          Brent Owen, Jay Limbaugh

Others Present: Superintendent Joe Carter,, Principals Jill Schutjer, James Rotert, Brad Sudol and Rudy Wieck, Janie Eischen

 

Approve Agenda: Vinci moved to approve the agenda and Mitchell seconded. Motion carried.

 

CELL PHONE POLICY: A new cell phone policy was implemented in 2023-2024. Principals agreed that the change with the policy led to a more positive and less distracted learning environment.

 

FINANCIAL FORECAST: Superintendent Carter reviewed expenditures and revenues including those estimated through 2027-2028. The forecast shows that the district will begin a deficit however there is time to plan ahead to balance that out. Possibilities to head off deficit spending include reducing the special education expenditures, increased retirees and the change in AEA dollars and how those funds will come directly to the district.

 

FACILITIES UPDATE: The current Fieldhouse project will meet previous goals of increasing court space, additional areas for wrestling, a larger weight room and increased track opportunities. The project is currently 3-4 weeks behind schedule. Substantial completion is expected by the end of July 2025. The current estimated cost of a new elementary school is $36 million. A voted general obligation bond at $2.70 would generate the funds needed to build the elementary. By planning ahead in other funds, such as the Management fund, we could reduce that levy to make up for the increase for a general obligation bond thus reducing the tax asking by $1.00 to $1.70. The Titonka debt expires in 2027. 

 

BEHAVIOR NEEDS: The district currently contracts with Seasons Center to have a full time mental health therapist and two youth school workers. Behavior Interventionists have been implemented in each elementary building. The Middle School has two principals and an At Risk teacher associate. The High School uses a principal, Dean of Students and two counselors. Discussions centered around whether there is a need for additional staff to deal with the most serious behaviors.

 

A.L.I.C.E. TRAINING: Principals shared their plans for staff training in preparation for any crises that the district may encounter in regards to safety. ALICE training has been provided in the past and the principals plan to continue the training with staff. An optional informational meeting for parents/guardians is being planned for August 20. 

 

Louwagie moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:06 pm and was seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

_______________________________ ______________________________

Board President Acting Secretary

ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

August 12, 2024

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session in the Boardroom, Performing Arts Center, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa at 7:00pm. on the above date. 

 

Present:              Tom Nugent, Brent Owen, Rodney Davis, Andrea Vinci, Todd Louwagie

Absent:              Jay Limbaugh, Lany Mitchell

Others Present: Superintendent Joe Carter, Secretary Lisa Chapman, Janie Eischen, Kjerstin & Calvin Brandt (exit at 7:38pm), Kristi Roberts (exit at 7:40pm), Molly Montag

 

All motions are unanimously approved unless noted.

 

Approve Agenda:  Nugent moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

Consent Items: Owen moved to approve the consent items and Nugent seconded. Motion carried.

 

Superintendent Report: Carter informed the board that the district is still hiring teacher associates and are still in need of a full time bus driver. The district is offering a $1,500 sign on bonus as well as $1,500 referral bonus if a current driver refers someone that is hired. The board retreat was held August 6. The topics discussed were the cell phone policy, financial forecasting, facilities updates, behaviors and A.L.I.C.E. (safety) training. The minutes were posted last week for that meeting and are approved in the above consent items. The first day for new teachers is August 14, while the entire staff will convene on August 19. The first day for High/Middle School is August 23. 

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies-2nd Reading:   Louwagie moved to approve the second reading of the following policies: 504.01 Student Government, 504.02 Student Organizations, 504.04 Student Performances and 504.06 Student Activity Program. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Board Policies First Reading: The first reading of board policies was held for the following policies: 505.1 Student Progress Reports and Conferences, 505.3 Student Honors and Awards, 505.4 Testing Program, 505.5 Graduation Requirements and 710.3 Negative Lunch Balance.. The second reading will be held in September.

 

Board Policies First & Second Reading: The first and second readings of board policies 206.3

Secretary-Treasurer, 401.06 Limitations to Employment Reference, 402.03 Abuse of Students by School District Employees, 501.09 Chronic Absenteeism & Truancy, 501.14 Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Sending District, 501.15 Open Enrollment Transfers-Procedures as a Receiving District, 505.02 Student Promotion-Retention-Acceleration, 607.02 Student Health Services, 603.12 Postsecondary Education Counseling, 710.01 School Nutrition Program, 801.03 Educational Specifications for Buildings & Sites, 803.02 Lease, Sale or disposal of School district buildings & Sites, 905.03 Weapons in the School District, 106.1 Title IX-Discrimination & Harassment Based on Sex, 708 Care, Maintenance & Disposal of School District Records was held. Administration is asking for an approval for the first and second readings at the same time so that the legislative changes would be in effect immediately. Owen moved to approve the first and second readings and was seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Approve Fundraising Requests: Louwagie moved to approve the following fundraising requests, Football-Value Cards for equipment, sled, bags, pants with an anticipated profit of $7,000, FFA Plant Sale, FFA Pancake Feed & Labor Auction, FFA Test Plot, FFA Fruit, Cheese & Sausage Sales, High School mental health awareness and t-shirt sale, Bertha Godfrey-annual cookie dough in the fall and spring with anticipated up to $5,000 profit for playground expenses, Bryant will hold their annual Cherrydale Fundraiser with a $3,500 anticipated profit for playground expenses, Middle School annual fundraiser with Clubs Choice with anticipated profit of $6,000 for student field trips, activities, playground expenses, Top Dawg activities and mini courses. Owen moved to second the motion. Motion carried.

 

Approve Handbooks: Owen moved to approve the following handbooks for the 2024-2025 school year: High School, Middle School, Elementary, Preschool Staff Handbook, Preschool Parent Handbook, Classified Employee Handbook, Elementary Staff Handbook. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

Boys Swimming Sharing Agreement: Owen moved to approve to share boys swimming with Garrigan. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Calvin & Kjerstin Brandt exit at 7:38pm.

Kristi Roberts exited at 7:40pm.

 

Kossuth Regional Health Center Trainer Contract: Vinci moved to approve a contract with Kossuth Regional Health Center for a trainer to be present at athletic activities. The annual estimated cost is $8,525. The trainer will also aid the Activities Director in guidance regarding the budget for supplies. They will also be available on Wednesdays to meet with/evaluate athletes who may have injury. Louwagie seconded. Motion carried.

 

Open Enrollment: There are eight (8) open enrollment applications filed. Owen moved to deny the 2 applications that were not filed timely. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried. Owen moved to approve the six (6) applications that were filed timely. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

Resignations:   Louwagie moved to approve the following resignations: Jake Adams-Assistant Football Coach, Lindsay Carter-Assistant Varsity Softball Coach, Mindy Vitzthum-At Risk Teacher Associate, Kaitlyn Teepe-Teacher Associate. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

Contracts:  Nugent moved to approve the following contracts pending completion of any and all certifications not already obtained: Wyatt Struecker-Night Custodian, Taylor Elvington-MS Teacher Associate, Alyssa Gremmer-MS Teacher Associate, Amber Limbaugh-Volunteer Volleyball Coach, Jordan Limbaugh-Volunteer Football Coach, Jay Limbaugh-Volunteer Football Coach, Ben Gatton-Volunteer Football Coach, Jeremy Rummel-Volunteer Football Coach, Rudy Wieck-Volunteer Football Coach, Mike Dunlap-Volunteer Football Coach, Randy Erpelding-Volunteer Football Coach, Seth Schlenger-Assistant Football Coach, Corey White-MS Teacher Associate, Amie Schlenger-HS Teacher Associate and Jayne Bartrom-MS Teacher Associate.  Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

Vinci moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:45p.m. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

_______________________________ ______________________________

Board President Board Secretary

 

ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

September 9, 2024

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session in the Boardroom, Performing Arts Center, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa at 7:00pm. on the above date. 

 

Present:              Tom Nugent, Brent, Owen, Rodney Davis, Jay Limbaugh, Todd Louwagie, Lany Mitchell

Absent:                Andrea Vinci

Others Present: Superintendent Joe Carter, Secretary Lisa Chapman, Janie Eischen, Devon Curry, Brooke Kramer, Jill Schutjer, Brad Sudol, Molly Montag

 

All motions are unanimously approved unless noted.

 

Approve Agenda:  Louwagie moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Consent Items:    Nugent moved to approve the consent items and Louwagie seconded. Motion carried.

 

Superintendent Report: Carter informed the board of preliminary enrollment figures. October 1st is count day and certified enrollment figures will be shared after that day. Last year the board approved an early retirement program. It was the intent last year to offer the program again in fiscal year 2025. The early retirement program will be on the agenda in October. The organizational meeting will be held in November as it is done each year. The board will need to set the date and time of future meetings. A survey will be conducted to determine the best time and day for our public and staff.

 

COMMUNICATION TO THE BOARD 

School Resource Officer (SRO): Conversations have been held over the past year with Chief Bo Miller about bringing a School Resource Officer into the district. Legislation to help fund this did not pass this year, but conversations are continuing and there is hope to see this subject brought up in the next legislative session. 

Behavior Lead Positions: Jill Schutjer and Brad Sudol, Elementary Principals, presented the program and introduced the Behavior Lead associates Brooke Kramer, Lara Cram and Devon Curry. These associates will assist teachers in classrooms with behaviors, build positive relationships, check in with identified students, provide student breaks, work on goals and be ready to assist with any major situations. Data will be collected to track the benefits of the program. Cram, Curry, Kramer, Schutjer and Sudol exited at 7:34pm.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies-2nd Reading: Limbaugh moved to approve the second reading of the following policies: 505.1 Student Progress Reports & Conferences, 505.3 Student Honors & Awards, 505.4 Testing Program, 505.5 Graduation Requirements and 710.3 Negative Lunch Balance as presented. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Board Policies First Reading: The first reading of board policies was held for the following policies: 506.2 Student Directory Information and 506.4 Student Library Circulation Records. The second reading will be held in October.

 

Approve Fundraising Requests: Louwagie moved to approve the fundraising request for the middle school band. The purpose of the fundraiser is to provide funds for instruments, equipment and Adventureland Festival of Bands. Nugent moved to second the motion. Motion carried.

 

Open Enrollment: There are nine (9) open enrollment applications filed. Limbaugh moved to approve the nine (9) applications that were filed timely or with cause. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Resignations: Mitchell moved to approve the following resignation(s): Alyssa Gremmer-MS Teacher Associate. Seconded by Limbaugh. Motion carried.

 

Contracts: Louwagie moved to approve the following contracts pending completion of any and all certifications not already obtained: Brittany Phillips-MS Teacher Associate, Jason Moser-Bus Driver and Bob Arnold-Bus Driver.  Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

Limbaugh moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:38p.m. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

_______________________________ ______________________________

Board President                                   Board Secretary

ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

October 14, 2024

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session in the Boardroom, Performing Arts Center, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa at 7:00pm. on the above date. 

 

Present:              Tom Nugent, Brent, Owen, Rodney Davis, Andrea Vinci, Todd Louwagie, Lany Mitchell

Absent:               Jay Limbaugh

Others Present: Superintendent Joe Carter, Secretary Lisa Chapman, Janie Eischen, Jared Cecil,  Molly Montag

 

All motions are unanimously approved unless noted.

 

Approve Agenda: Owen moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

Consent Items: Owen moved to approve the consent items and Louwagie seconded. Motion carried.

 

Communications to the Board: The board will tour the Fieldhouse on October 18, 2024 at 5:00pm.

 

Superintendent Report: Carter provided the board with an updated financial report following the submission of the Certified Annual Report. Two areas of measure included the financial solvency ratio (11.89% preliminary) and the unspent authorized budget ratio (20%). Both measures reflect a positive financial outlook. Certified enrollment is up 37 students to 1448. The Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB) Convention will be November 21st. 

 

Administrative Report:  High School Principal, Jared Cecil, reported to the board about the District Career & Academic Planning process. Even though this is a state requirement, it is a process that Algona CSD had in place prior to the requirement. Components were described. Career understanding, information and exploration are the first three pieces. Post secondary education and post secondary decisions are discussed with the students. Cecil also discussed chronic absenteeism and attendance happenings. Conversations are positive and increasing with parents regarding absences. Cecil shared that attendance is up.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies-2nd Reading:   Owen moved to approve the second reading of the following policies: 505.1 Student Progress Reports and Conferences, 505.3 Student Honors and Awards, 505.4 Testing Program, 505.5 Graduation Requirements. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Board Policies First Reading: The first reading of board policies was held for the following policies: 507.01 Student Health & Immunization Certificates, 507.02 Administration of Medication to Students Authorization, 507.02E1 Administration Consent Form, 507.02E2 Medication to Students, 507.02E3 Delivery of Health Services by the Student, 507.02E4 Parental Authorization & Release Form, 507.03 Communicable Diseases-Students, 507.05 Emergency Plans & Drills, 507.06 Student Insurance, 507.07 Custody & Parental Rights, 507.08 Student Special Health Services, 507.09 Wellness and 700 Purpose of Noninstructional & Business Services. The second reading will be held in November.

 

Change Order #1 & #2 for the Fieldhouse Project: Change order #1 for $29,154 is material for the shot put pit which was not included in the bid. Change order #2 for $23,010 is for conduit into the building that was not included in the bid. Nugent moved to approve the change orders submitted for the shot put pit and the conduit. Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

 

Early Retirement Program: Vinci moved to approve the Early Retirement Program. This program states that a teacher must be 55 by June 30, 2025 and have 15 years of service with the district. One percent of their last year salary multiplied by the number of years of service (capped at 25) will be paid in a cash payment to be paid in two payments in July 2025 and January 2026. Also included in the package is $25 for each unused sick day and five (5) years of health insurance. There is a cap of 6 approved applicants with years of service given priority. Seconded by Mitchell.  Motion carried.

 

IASB Assembly Delegate: Owen moved to appoint Rodney Davis as the IASB Assembly Delegate at the IASB Convention in November. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Superintendent Goals: Vinci moved to table the Superintendent Goals until November board meeting. Seconded by Mitchell.  Motion carried.

 

Progress Review Dates: January and June were the dates set for progress review of the superintendent goals. Owen moved to approve the dates stated.  Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

 

MAG-Special Education Deficit: Vinci moved to approve the request for allowable growth for the special education deficit of $1,017,725.20. Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

 

Allowable Growth for Limited English Proficiency (LEP): Vinci moved to approve the allowable growth application for dollars spent in excess of funding for Limited English Proficiency in the amount of $89,803.28. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

Out of State Trip for FFA: Owen moved to approve the FFA National Convention trip to Indianapolis, IN. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Kossuth County Hazard Mitigation: Louwagie moved to adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan that will be used to identify vulnerabilities to hazards and mitigation projects to reduce or eliminate this vulnerability. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Fundraising Request:  Owen moved to approve the girls’ basketball fundraiser to raise funds for new practice jerseys and shorts. The team plans to profit approximately $3,000. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Open Enrollment:  Vinci moved to approve the five open enrollment applications. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

Resignations:  None

 

Dismissals:  Mitchell moved to approve the dismissal of Collin Penton as a Bertha Godfrey Teacher Associate. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Contracts:  Vinci moved to approve the following contracts pending completion of any and all certifications not already obtained: Jeannie Farrell-Non Public Teacher for Title I, Myra Miller-Non Public Teacher for Title I, Kylie Barnett-Lucia Wallace Teacher Associate, Morgan Demarais-JV Softball Coach, Josh Strohman-MS Boys Wrestling Coach, Bob Arnold-MS Boys Wrestling Coach, the following volunteers for wrestling-Brian Morgan, Chad Slagle, James Rotert, Jordan Limbaugh, Cody Alesch, Troy Nation, Jay Bjustrom, Corey Bjustrom and volunteer basketball volunteers-Tyler Leiting (Boys Basketball), Blake Elsbecker (Boys Basketball) and Keely Miller and Drew Severson (Girls Basketball).  Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

Louwagie moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:03p.m. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

_______________________________ ______________________________

Board President                                   Board Secretary

 

ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting

November 11, 2024

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session in the Boardroom, Performing Arts Center, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa at 7:00pm. on the above date. 

Present:              Tom Nugent, Brent Owen, Rodney Davis, Andrea Vinci, Todd Louwagie, Lany Mitchell

                              Jay Limbaugh

Absent:               None

Others Present: Superintendent Joe Carter, Secretary Lisa Chapman, James Rotert, Lois Gent, Drew Severson, Justine Garman, Rudy Wieck, Molly Montag, Betsy Becker, FFA Members-Walker Eilerts, Graden Ruger, Grant Kramer, Ace Studer, Kara Rotert, Grace Luitjens, Tucker Brunsvold, Harry Reynolds, Hana Perez, Alissa Engel, Kadence Thompson,

 

All motions are unanimously approved unless noted.

Approve Agenda: Nugent moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Limbaugh. Motion carried.

Communications to the Board: The FFA Chapter attended the National Convention in Indianapolis, IN. Members reported to the board about their highlights. The contests and trips provide leadership and communication opportunities. FFA members and sponsor Betsy Becker exited at 7:16p.m.

Consent Items: Louwagie moved to approve the consent items and Mitchell seconded. Motion carried.

Superintendent Report: Carter provided the board with enrollment figures. Certified enrollment was finalized in October. Algona’s certified enrollment increased by 35. Actual students increased by 25. The Iowa Association of School Board Convention is November 21st in Des Moines. 

Administrative Report: James Rotert, Middle School Principal, informed the board about the English Language Learner (ELL) leadership team that was put together this year. Those members include Lois Gent, Drew Severson, Justine Garman and Bre Wieck. The team was put together to support both students and staff in creating a collaborative environment. Drew discussed how vocabulary is an important part of the foundation in learning a language. Justine reviewed the process of learning new vocabulary words. Lois Gent reviewed her process of co-teaching foundational skills with students whether it is word strategies or any further work that may need to be done in a small group. Rudy Wieck, Asst. Middle School Principal, also spoke to the board regarding updated restorative practices. The process is currently in year 3. Eighty-seven percent of the teachers feel that the practice they are currently using is working. Middle school staff exited at 7:56p.m.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies-2nd Reading:  Owen moved to approve the second reading of the following policies: 507.01 Student Health & Immunization Certificates, 507.02 Administration of Medication to Students Authorization, 507.02E1 Administration Consent Form, 507.02E2 Medication to Students, 507.02E3 Delivery of Health Services by the Student, 507.02E4 Parental Authorization & Release Form, 507.03 Communicable Diseases-Students, 507.05 Emergency Plans & Drills, 507.06 Student Insurance, 507.07 Custody & Parental Rights, 507.08 Student Special Health Services, 507.09 Wellness and 700 Purpose of Non Instructional & Business Services. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

Modified Allowable Growth - Special Education: The correct amount for the special education deficit is $1,640,161.29.  Vinci moved to approve $1,640,161.29 for the 2023-2024 special education deficit modified allowed growth request. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

Superintendent Goals from October Meeting: Postponed for discussion and approval from the October meeting, goals and subgoals are presented with subgoals.  Louwagie moved to approve the following as the goals for the current school year: Goal 1 last year was to Manage school operations and resources to promote each student’s academic success and well-being.  Goal 2 last year was to Cultivate an inclusive, caring, and supportive school community that promotes the academic success and well-being of each student.  And Goal 3 last year was Develop and support intellectually rigorous and coherent systems of curriculum, instruction, and assessment to promote each student’s academic success and well-being. Sub goals:

1) Visit each building 36 times or more throughout the 2024-2025 school year.

2) Meet one on one with every staff member in the district throughout the 2024-2025 school year. 

3) As a District, lower our chronic absenteeism rate during the 2024-2025 school year.

Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Board Policies First Reading: The first reading of board policies was held for the following policies: 508.01 Class or Student Group Gifts and 508.02 Open Night. The second reading will be held in December.          

Girls Wrestling Sharing Agreement: Vinci moved to approve a sharing agreement with North Iowa for girls wrestling. The fee is $200 per wrestler while the home district provides transportation Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

Resolution for Continuation of Instructional Support Levy:  The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session, in the PAC Boardroom, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa, at 7:00 P.M., on the above date. There were present President Davis, in the chair, and the following named Board Members: 

  Others Present: Limbaugh, Nugent, Vinci, Mitchell, Louwagie, Owen

   Absent: ___________None____________________________

   Vacant: ___________None____________________________

* * * * * * * * *

The President of the Board called up for consideration the Resolution to Consider Continued Participation in the Instructional Support Program which requires that a public hearing be held on this proposal. Director Limbaugh introduced the following Resolution and moved its adoption. Director Nugent seconded the motion to adopt. The roll was called, and the vote was:

AYES: Davis, Louwagie, Mitchell, Owen, Vinci      

NAYS: None                    

 

The President declared the Resolution adopted as follows:

RESOLUTION TO CONSIDER CONTINUED PARTICIPATION IN THE INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM WHEREAS, the Board of Directors has determined that to continue the current level of services and to fund the ongoing programs of the School District, continuation of participation in the Instructional Support Program for a period of five years is necessary and in the best interests of the District and its residents and students; and WHEREAS, the Board of Directors wishes to consider continued participation in the Instructional Support Program as provided in Sections 257.18 through 257.21, Code of Iowa; and WHEREAS, the authorization for the current Instructional Support Program will expire on June 30, 2026; and WHEREAS, this Resolution sets forth the proposal of the Board of Directors, including the method that will be used to fund the program; and WHEREAS, notice of the time and place of a public hearing must be published: NOW, THEREFORE, it is resolved:

1. The Board of Directors wishes to consider continued participation in the Instructional Support Program as provided in Sections 257.18 through 257.21, Code of Iowa, for a period of five years, commencing with the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

2. The additional funding for the Instructional Support Program for a budget year shall be determined annually and shall not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total regular program district cost for the budget year and moneys received under Section 257.14, Code of Iowa, as a budget adjustment for the budget year.

3. Moneys received by the District for the Instructional Support Program may be used for any general fund purpose.

4. The Instructional Support Program shall be funded by instructional support state aid and a combination instructional support property tax levied annually upon the taxable property within the School District commencing with the levy of property taxes for collection in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, and an instructional support income surtax imposed annually, the percent of income surtax to be determined by the Board for each budget year to be imposed upon the state individual income tax of each individual income taxpayer resident in the School District on December 31, 2026, and each year thereafter.

5. The Secretary is authorized and directed to give notice of a public hearing to be held in the PAC Boardroom, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa, on December 9, 2024, at 7:00P.M.

6. Following the public hearing the Board intends to take action on the question

whether to continue participation in the Instructional Support Program.

PASSED AND APPROVED this 11th day of November, 2024.

 

Rodney Davis, President of the Board of Directors

ATTEST: Lisa Chapman

Secretary of the Board of Directors

Financial Health Analysis: Carter highlighted the top eight financial indicators as noted in the Financial Health Analysis prepared by Lisa Chapman, School Business Official. Mitchell moved to approve the Financial Health Analysis FY24.  Seconded by Louwagie.  Motion carried.

Bus Barn Lease: Owen moved to approve the 2024-2025 bus barn lease agreement with the Kossuth County Fair Association in the amount of $25,000.  Seconded by Limbaugh. Motion carried.

Middle School Girls Wrestling Coach: Owen moved to approve a second middle school girls wrestling coach. Seconded by Mitchell.  Motion carried.

Classified Staff Stipend: Education Salary Supplement funding was used to support a 4% increase in FY25 wages. An additional amount of $300 was recommended by Mr. Carter to hourly staff that have completed their mandatory trainings. Louwagie moved to approve the stipend and Limbaugh seconded. Motion carried.

Open Enrollment: There were 5 open enrollment applications.  Mitchell moved to approve the applications. Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

Resignations: Louwagie moved to approve the following resignations upon finding suitable replacements: Steve Young-MS Football Coach, James Rotert-MS Football Coach. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

Contracts: Owen moved to approve the following contracts pending completion of any and all certifications not already obtained: Tiffany Diekhuis-Bertha Godfrey Teacher Associate, Shane Meschke-Volunteer MS Boys Basketball Coach and Grace Herbst-Ulmer - MS Girls Wrestling Coach Assistant.  Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 Nugent moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:30p.m. Seconded by Owen. Motion carried.

 

                                                                                                                                                                                   

Board Secretary                                                                                         Board President

 

 

ALGONA COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Regular Meeting & Organizational

December 9, 2024

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session in the Boardroom, Performing Arts Center, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa at 7:00pm. on the above date. 

 

Present:              Tom Nugent, Rodney Davis, Andrea Vinci, Todd Louwagie, Lany Mitchell

Jay Limbaugh

Absent:               Brent Owen

Administration: Superintendent Joe Carter, Secretary Lisa Chapman, Janie Eischen

Visitors: Molly Montag-Algona Publishing

 

The Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, met in regular session, in the PAC Boardroom, 600 S. Hale Street, Algona, Iowa, at 7:00 P.M., on the above date.  There were present President Davis, in the chair, and the following named Board Members:

Jay Limbaugh, Andrea Vinci, Lany Mitchell, Todd Louwagie, Tom Nugent

Absent: Brent Owen

The President announced that this is the time, place and date to hold a hearing on the proposed Resolution to Continue Participation in the Instructional Support Program. Mr. Carter reviewed the process and purpose of the Instructional Support Levy.  The following persons appeared: None

The President declared the hearing closed at 7:02pm.

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

 

All motions are unanimously approved unless noted.

 

Election for President of the Board was conducted by Secretary Chapman. Limbaugh nominated Davis as Board President. Mitchell seconded. There were no other nominations. Nugent moved to cease nominations for President. Motion carried. Votes were called for the appointment of Rodney Davis as Board President. Davis, Louwagie, Nugent, Vinci, Mitchell, Limbaugh-Aye. Nay-None. Absent-Owen. Davis was declared President.

 

Davis called for nominations of Vice-President. Limbaugh moved to nominate Nugent as Vice-President. Vinci seconded. Motion carried. There were no other nominations. Vinci moved to cease nominations.  Votes were called for the appointment of Tom Nugent as Vice-President of the Board. Davis, Louwagie, Nugent, Vinci, Mitchell, Limbaugh-Aye. None-Nay. Absent-Owen. Nugent was declared Vice-President.

 

The oath was administered to Davis as Board President and Nugent as Vice-President by Secretary Chapman.

 

Approve Agenda: Limbaugh moved to approve the agenda. Seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Consent Items:  Nugent moved to approve the consent items and Louwagie seconded. Motion carried.

 

Superintendent Report:

SRO: Carter has had several conversations with the Chief of Police over the last year regarding the placement of a School Resource Officer (SRO) on the Algona campuses. Due to legislation changes this past year, flexibility in funding was created. The district would be able to use Management Funds to contract the services of an SRO. A document of Roles and Responsibilities is being created. Mr. Carter will bring the item to the January meeting for approval. This would be a 28E Agreement with the City of Algona.

Iowa School Performance Profile: Carter reviewed the Iowa School Performance Profile for Algona schools that was released this fall. 

 

Administrative Report:  Janie Eischen, Director of Teaching & Learning delved deeper into the Iowa School Performance Profile. She outlined the changes in the report and explained how scores are calculated as well as what some of those scores were.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Board Policies-2nd Reading:  Louwagie moved to approve the second reading of the following policies: 508.01 Class or Student Group Gifts and 508.02 Open Night. Seconded by Nugent. Motion carried.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Board Policies First Reading: The first reading of board policies was held for the following policies:600 Goals & Objectives of the Education Program, 601.01 School Calendar, 601.02 School Day, 602.1 Curriculum Development, 602.2, Curriculum Implementation, 602.3 Curriculum Evaluation and 602.4 Pilot-Experimental-Innovative Projects. The second reading will be held in January.

 

Dropout Prevention Application: Vinci moved to approve the SBRC Modified Supplement Dropout Prevention application in the amount of $521,918.  Mitchell seconded the motion. Motion carried.

 

Kossuth County Conference Board Appointment:  Nugent moved to appoint Todd Louwagie as the representative for the Kossuth County Conference Board. Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

Instructional Support Levy

Director Todd Louwagie introduced the following Resolution and moved its adoption.  

Director Tom Nugent seconded the motion to adopt.  The roll was called, and the vote was:

AYES: Louwagie, Nugent, Mitchell, Vinci, Limbaugh, Davis

NAYS: None

ABSENT: Owen

The President declared the Resolution adopted as follows:

RESOLUTION TO CONTINUE PARTICIPATION IN THE INSTRUCTIONAL SUPPORT PROGRAM

 

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors has determined that to continue the current level of services and to fund the ongoing programs of the School District, continuation of participation in the Instructional Support Program for a period of five years is necessary and in the best interests of the District and its residents and students; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors has given consideration to continue participation in the Instructional Support Program as provided in Sections 257.18 through 257.21, Code of Iowa; and

WHEREAS, the Board has published notice of the time and place of a public hearing on the Resolution; and

WHEREAS, a hearing has been held upon the proposal to continue participation in the Instructional Support Program and any objections are overruled

NOW, THEREFORE, IT IS RESOLVED:

1.               The Board of Directors determines that it is consistent with the five year finance plan to fund the ongoing programs and services of the School District and it is in the best interest of the School District to continue participation in an Instructional Support Program as provided in Sections 257.18 through 257.21, Code of Iowa, and to provide additional funding therefor for a period of five (5) years commencing with the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027.

2.              The additional funding for the Instructional Support Program for a budget year will be determined annually and will not exceed ten percent (10%) of the total regular program district cost for the budget year and moneys received under Section 257.14, Code of Iowa, as a budget adjustment for the budget year.

3.            Moneys received by the District for the Instructional Support Program may be used for any general fund purpose.

4.   The Instructional Support Program shall be funded by instructional support state aid and a combination instructional support property tax levied annually upon the taxable property within the School District commencing with the levy of property taxes for collection in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, and an instructional support income surtax imposed annually, the percent of income surtax to be determined by the Board for each budget year to be imposed upon the state individual income tax of each individual income taxpayer resident in the School District on December 31, 2026, and each year thereafter.

5.     Unless, within twenty-eight days following the adoption of this Resolution, the Secretary of the Board receives a petition containing the signatures of eligible electors equal in number to not less than one hundred or thirty percent of the number of voters at the last preceding regular school election, whichever is greater, asking that an election be called to approve or disapprove this action of the Board adopting the Instructional Support Program, this action of the Board is final and the Secretary is authorized and directed to certify a copy of this Resolution to the Department of Management.

In the event a petition containing the required number of signatures is filed with the Secretary of the Board within twenty-eight days of the adoption of this Resolution, the President shall call a meeting of the Board to consider rescission of this Resolution, or to direct the county commissioner of elections to submit the following question to the qualified electors of the School District at a special election.

If the Board determines to submit the question to the electors, the public measure to be submitted shall be as follows:

Shall the Board of Directors of the Algona Community School District, in the County of Kossuth, State of Iowa, be authorized for a period of five (5) years to continue to levy and impose an instructional support tax in an amount (after taking into consideration instructional support state aid) of not exceeding ten percent (10%) of the total of regular program district cost for the budget year and moneys received under Section 257.14, Code of Iowa, as a budget adjustment in the budget year, and be authorized annually, in combination, as determined by the Board, to levy an instructional support property tax upon all the taxable property within the School District commencing with the levy of property taxes for collection in the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, and to impose an instructional support income surtax upon the state individual income tax of each individual income taxpayer resident in the School District on December 31 for each calendar year commencing with calendar year 2026, or each year thereafter, the percent of income surtax to be determined by the Board for each fiscal year, to be used for any general fund purpose? [OR any general fund purpose?]

PASSED AND APPROVED this 9th day of December, 2024.

Rodney Davis, Board President

ATTEST:

Lisa Chapman, Secretary of the Board of Directors

SBRC Applications:

Increased Enrollment:  Limbaugh moved to approve the district’s administration to authorize submission of the  request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $279,888 due to an increase of certified enrollment from the prior year.  Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

English Learners (EL) Instruction Beyond Five (5) Years: Nugent moved to approve the district’s administration to authorize submission of the  request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $6,585 related to the EL program for students who have exceeded five years of weighting that are included on the Fall 2024 certified enrollment headcount.  Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

 

Set Time & Date of Regular Monthly Meetings:  Vinci moved to approve the time as 5:30pm on the second Monday of each month as the regular monthly meeting. Mitchell seconded. Motion carried. 

 

Appoint Legal Counsel:  Mitchell moved to approve Steve Avery as legal counsel and Nugent seconded. Motion carried.

 

Approve Change Orders for Fieldhouse Project: Limbaugh moved to approve change orders to the Fieldhouse Project totaling $9,842. The changes include electric room changes ($1,828), courtline markings ($3,605), backflow preventor and pot feeder ($2,191) and additional blocking for signage on south wall ($2,218). The motion was seconded by Mitchell. Motion carried.

 

Open Enrollment:  There are no open enrollment applications..

 

Resignations: Mitchell moved to approve the following resignation: Kylie Barnett-Lucia Wallace Teacher Associate. Seconded by Limbaugh. Motion carried.

 

Contracts:  Louwagie moved to approve the following contracts pending completion of any and all certifications not already obtained: Moni Westling-Speech Coach and Lisa Miller-Lucia Wallace Teacher Associate.  Seconded by Vinci. Motion carried.

 

 Mitchell moved to adjourn the meeting at  8:04p.m. Seconded by Louwagie. Motion carried.

 

 

Board Secretary Board President