APPROVED MINUTES Holton USD #336 Board of Education --First Regular Meeting at the HHS Auditorium February 13, 2006, 7:00 p.m.

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1 Holton USD #336 Board of Education --First Regular Meeting at the HHS Auditorium February 13, 2006, 7:00 p.m. MEMBERS PRESENT: Brent Nelson, Roger Heckerson, Alan Bagby, Dan Doyle, Trent LeDoux, Russ McKinney, Mark Pruett. MEMBERS ABSENT: OTHERS PRESENT: Brad Rahe, Jo Krogman, Alan Beam, Rich Bechard, Jay D. Nelson, Elaine Nielson, Tom Sextro, Susan Sipe, Mark B. Wilson, Mark C. Wilson, Allen Arnold, Tonya Barta, Jim Birkbeck, Scott Bond, Celia Bowser, Mike Bowser, Nicholas Bowser, Steven Bowser, Jeff Coverdale, Whitney Coverdale, Dan Degenhardt, Nancy DeKeyser, Ronda DeLay, Charles Eisenbarth, Becky Eisenbarth, Heather Ent, Rita Ent, Keith Eubanks, Barbara Fletcher, Carly Fletcher, Christopher Fletcher, Connie Gilliland, Keith Gilliland, Debbie Harshaw, Steve Harshaw, Amy Haussler, Pam Heckerson, Tad Hernandez, Henry Hill, Tracy Hill, Jon Holliday, Cindy Hower, Joe Hurla, Gary Kelly, David King, David Krogman, Jason Larison, Katrenia Luthi, Russell Luthi, Edward Lutz, Lenora Marshall, Orin Marshall, Don McDaniel, Beth McKinney, Pat McClintock, Keri Miller, Rodney Miller, Chris Misenhelter, Scott Misenhelter, Jr., Scott Misenhelter, Sr., Susan Morris, David Powls, Mike Scheele, Joe Schneider, Teresa Schneider, Porter Smith, Terri Smith, Missy Strader, Marvin Stous, Eula Swindale, Leonard Swindale, Paula Taylor, Joni White, William Zibell, Gary Zimmerman President Nelson called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member Bagby to approve the amended agenda of the February 13, 2006, first regular board meeting. Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member Bagby to approve the minutes of the January 9, 2006, Regular meeting and January 24th (2 meetings) and January 30th Special Meetings. Motion carried, 7-0. In discussion of the payment of warrants, Member LeDoux noted that only 75% of the work at the bus barn had been paid previously and the work was complete and full payment should be approved. He also stated he had received a request from the contractor for the board to split the cost for the repairs for damages. He recommended the board approve the split. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member Bagby to approve the warrant numbers through and to approve the February payroll as presented and to include one-half of the payment for repairs at the bus barn. Motion carried, 7-0. COMMUNICATIONS: 1) Patron Scott Misenhelter addressed the board regarding the division of community over current issues facing the district. He stated the Board needed to take a step further and get beyond empasse and do what is best for students, staff and community. Get back to February 13, 2006, Page 1

2 addressing facility and district needs. Various reasons why original bond failed but a lot of time by a lot of individuals has been spent on those needs and we need to move forward. The needs have not gone away. Look at doing in phases. All parties need to come together to do what is best for students. OLD BUSINESS: 1) Joe Hurla, TAC representative, reviewed next step in performance contracting and gave a revised timeline. He stated that the enclosure of classrooms, HVAC systems to those room and locker rooms could be part of the contract. He or another TAC representative would have to meet with Board committee and Superintendent to see the scope and meet the financial constraints of the project. Would look at all pertinent items. Decisions can be made after RFQ selection process complete. Could work it so there would be 2 week turnaround from time of request to selection of company. Would need to set a Special Board meeting to meet quick turnaround time or could bring back at March regular meeting. He reiterated that there are four companies contracted with the State but that most do not work with school districts. There are other companies that do such as: Honeywell, Chevron, Custom Engineering and Johnson Controls, for example. A motion was made by Member LeDoux and seconded by Member Heckerson to approve Request for Proposals and allow for two week turnaround time. Motion carried, ) Discussion regarding HTK contract issues. How much is the district liable for, who signed, where are we on timing, many confusing statements circulating. What information was used in selection. Recommended hiring a legal firm to give opinion on contract. President Nelson noted that legal opinion from KASB attorney would be discussed in future, not able to get meeting established prior to tonight's meeting. Member Heckerson would like to see meeting in Holton in the evening so all would be available. It was stated that Mr. Shriver might not have adequate time to spend on issue due to legislative session workload. It was suggested that Mr. Shriver be contacted for his input. Need more indepth review. Can seek second opinion but might be difficult before meeting on the 21st. Recommended to continue meeting on the 21st with Mr. Shriver. Not sure at this time that bringing in another firm will settle issue. Need all members present for selection of another firm, recommend special meeting. Committee could bring two or three firms for board selection. Who will establish qualifications for selection, deal in school law or contract law? A motion was made by Member McKinney and seconded by Member Heckerson to call a committee of two from the board (McKinney and Heckerson) to identify firms that would qualify to do the work. Motion carried, 5-2. (Bagby, Pruett, opposing) NEW BUSINESS: 1) Ron Klobnak, Adkins Insurance, reviewed Property Insurance coverage and stated that General Liability this year had decreased from last year due to company decreasing rates and negotiations with underwriters. District received credits on history. Building values are updated each year, company sends inspectors periodically. Ron stated he had reviewed this year. The district has replacement cost on primary buildings. Member Pruett questioned item called "open property". Mr. Klobnak will check and respond, he felt it February 13, 2006, Page 2

3 could be the bleachers or grandstand. Also question on Dome and telescope coverage. Mr. Klobnak noted coverage was actual cash, which might need to be adjusted, and that it covered all permanent attachments. He further noted that he had just received an updated list of computers and that portion of coverage would most likely change. Question regarding tools at the bus barn, response was that it should probably be updated as well. Mr. Klobnak will follow up on all questions. President Nelson stated he would like to see annual review in a more timely fashion, suggested December. Mr. Klobnak noted that late renewal notice was due to error on company's part, he too would prefer in December. 2) Supt. Rahe requested board approval of Oneok Energy Marketing Nomination order. Allows company to bid natural gas for district and oversee purchase. He noted we have been using firm for several years now and have always done good job monitoring. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member Bagby to approve Oneok Energy Marketing Nomination order as presented. Motion carried, ) Supt. Rahe requested board directive on Youth Friends presentation. Building administrators noted that staff in favor of program, always looking for volunteers, need good role models but would like to see during lunch or before/after school, not interfere with educational day, several high school students would like to become volunteers. Member McKinney voiced concern that current volunteers would not qualify or have to go through program background checks, fail to see district gaining anything. It was stated that current volunteers would see no changes or services due to implementation of program. A motion was made by Member Bagby and seconded by Member Pruett to approve Youth Friends program as presented. Motion carried, ) Supt. Rahe requested board approval for Emergency Substitute Certificates for: Nicole Cress; Jose Martins; Jennifer Paxton; Nancy Romans; Kristel Morris. A motion was made by Member LeDoux and seconded by Member Bagby to approve Emergency Substitute certificates for Nicole Cress; Jose Martins; Jennifer Paxton; Nancy Romans; Kristel Morris for school year Motion carried, ) Tom Sextro reported on bandwidth agreement and how it ties to e-rate funding. He also explained e-rate funding on district phones, cellphones and long distance services. Funding based on free and reduced ratios of district. Agreement is for period July 1, 2006 through June 30, Member McKinney recommended district look at voice over IP. Mr. Sextro noted the high school currently operates on this system. District must be very careful when requesting funding to be sure only service eligible is claimed. A motion was made by Member McKinney and seconded by Member Pruett to approve bandwidth agreement with Giant Communications for School Year Motion carried, ) Principal Alan Beam reported on expanding the offerings of AP courses. He noted the district had established a 5-year plan, which started last year and the need to visit with neighbors about developing plans for funding courses. Currently pay with funds from Highland and other high school monies. He reiterated the need to change the climate of February 13, 2006, Page 3

4 thinking regarding how rated both of students and parents. Need to meet with parents to explain advantages and better preparedness of students for college. Looking for ways to fund on down the road, options include VE-II funds, students and district payment as well. Expenses will include not only courses, testing but training for staff as well and what classes can be substituted to offset staffing needs. In the Health studies, students currently pay for all. Next year, VE-II funds may be able to assist. Checking on audit requirements. Mr. Beam noted the high school is reaching a critical point where we need to begin considering a second counselor at the high school. 7) Mr. Beam continued presentation switching to Inservice training for staff. He shared a handout showing several out of state training opportunities for staff. District has tried to limit but there is need. Have brought in presenters to keep costs down and still provide training. Member McKinney noted he felt that some type of accounting by staff would be appropriate to show for opportunities. Mr. Beam noted that currently staff receive points for attendance. He further noted that staff can double by implementing and documenting training and triple if can show impact. 8) Member McKinney recommended changing the setting of the board agenda to include board input. He suggested it be sent to board members on Monday morning to allow meeting deadline for paper. It was recommended that caution be used to guard against lengthy agendas creating overly long meetings. A motion was made by Member LeDoux and seconded by Member McKinney to approve forwarding draft agenda by to board members on Mondays for input. Motion carried, 7-0. REPORTS: ADMINISTRATIVE: Elaine Nielson -- Parent/Teacher conferences this Thursday and Friday. Attended district level PLC, very productive meeting, voted to continue. Staff working on plans for coordination of assessments, which will begin in March. Testing grades 3 to 5 on Reading and Math. Third grade grant with hospital very successful, enjoyed working with the girls from the hospital. John Rundle and Jim Karleskint at last site council meeting to give insight on curriculum director perspective and superintendent's role. Wednesday is Professional Day and will be working on NCA plan for upcoming 5th year. Assessment scores available on November 15. Member LeDoux requested update on requests due to teacher realignment. Principal Nielson noted all was going well from administrative perspective, recommended speaking with staff. Mark C. Wilson -- Reported two major issues coming up at Colorado. First, Kindergarten Roundup will be end of March. Anticipating large class around students. Secondly, may be looking at larger class sizes and the need to realign staff. This could be last year for looping at Colorado. Jay D. Nelson -- Members Doyle and LeDoux toured building, spent two hours on tour to better see facility needs. Host Battle of Books tomorrow, 42 students to participate. Teams will answer questions about William Allen White books they have read. Kids excited, invited all to stop by about 2:00. Question regarding large science class, may need February 13, 2006, Page 4

5 to look at bringing in a teacher aide to assist. Next year may need to look at another section, will bring proposal to next meeting that may significantly reduce class sizes. Alan Beam -- Parent/Teacher conferences this week. Thursday from 8:00 to 3:30 and then from 5:30 to 7:00 and Friday from 8:00 to 11:00. Pre-enrollment beginning next Friday with Eighth grade. Conflict with KU Honors night but Rich will present. Tech Fair this Thursday in Topeka. Meet with Jeff West on February 22 with Science group. March 9th begin assessment testing of students in reading and math. Rich Bechard -- Winter sports winding down. Friday League tournament at Sabetha, Chapman for Regional Wrestling; Hosted Invitational for Speech and Drama and basketball night before. MAT Cat Club helped with set up, managed tournament, all under Bob Phillips direction. Expressed appreciation for all volunteers. State Wrestling in 4A moved to Salina. Sub State Basketball for 4A begins February 27; Host 1A here in March. Girls host home game then advance to Jeff West for remainder. Speech and Drama gearing up. Thanks to Russ and his wife, Beth, for hospitality room. Karen Stous did wonderful job. Very please with competition at Nemaha Valley, Royal Valley this weekend. Susan Sipe -- Reported she has received a request to showcase Exemplary classroom in district for inclusion. Great opportunity to showcase staff and students. Perks for shooting video include $500 to building media center and series to the library. Will be in May toward the end of school. Will be working with building administrators to select classroom. Supt. Rahe -- Requested board members give names to Mary or Jo if interested in attending Joint Board at Kaw Tech on April 12th. Received preliminary report on health insurance for next year, preliminary figures show approximately 3.1% increase. BOARD MEMBER REPORTS: Member Heckerson -- Expressed congratulations to high school students receiving ESSDACK training, Megan Middlemist, Cory Wilson, Alicia Coverdale, Mark Bowser and Preston Determan; Science Knowledge Bowl participants, Colton Nielson, Richard Scheele, Adam Fiedler and Dustin Thiessen; and Kansas Honor Scholars. Thanks Elaine Nielson for very informative site council meeting, very interesting. And for patrons show of interest. Member Doyle -- Toured middle school, very interesting to see classrooms and visit with teachers. Remodel very possible, surprised at shape of roof. Asked teachers what made students, building or education. Response was they would appreciate update of facility but could work with any accommodations. Will be meeting with representatives from Cargill on February 28th to view Ag facility to see if they can help to expand or enlarge. FFA Sweetheart tomorrow. Member LeDoux -- Expressed thanks to Jay D Nelson for tour. Roof at middle school not flat, worse than that; breaks in seals, water standing. Will keep in mind when talking with energy firm. Thanks to visits with teachers, will hopefully settle something soon. Member Bagby -- Echo Roger's remarks, thanks to Tad for filming. Visual and spoken February 13, 2006, Page 5

6 record all together, fear some spoken not reported. Thanks to all patrons for attending. Member Pruett -- Expressed congratulations to Scholars Bowl participants and KU Honors recipients. Attended Play, once again great job by kids and Karen deserves lots of credit. Attending Governmental Relations meetings this Wednesday and Thursday, very informative last year anticipate same this year. Contacted by patrons expressing thanks for stance on executive session. Valid point, maybe some don't agree. But, wished to thank those contacting him for their support. Can deal with difference of opinions. Things need to get done and will vote for executive session, get district moving on. President Nelson -- Echo congratulations. Thanks to all for support, attention and input and for time involved. A motion was made by Member Bagby and seconded by Member Pruett that Holton USD #336 recess to executive session for 10 minutes at 9:30 p.m. returning to regular session at 9:40 p.m. for the purpose of discussing: a. Matters pertaining to negotiations in order to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract. Motion carried, 6-1 (LeDoux, abstaining) Returned to regular session at 9:40 p.m. President Nelson stated the Board will hold a Special meeting for negotiations this Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. in the High School Library. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member McKinney that Holton USD #336 recess to executive session for 15 minutes at 9:45 p.m. returning to regular session at 10:00 p.m. for the purpose: a. Matters pertaining to non-elected personnel to protect the privacy interests of the individual(s). Motion carried, 7-0. Supt. Rahe and Alan Beam entered executive session with the board. Supt. Rahe and Alan Beam left executive session at 9:53 p.m. Returned to regular session at 10:00 p.m. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member Bagby to extend regular board meeting for 30 minutes until 10:30. Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member Bagby and seconded by Member Pruett that Holton USD #336 recess to executive session for 10 minutes at 10:00 p.m. returning to regular session at 10:10 p.m. for the purpose of discussing: a. Matters pertaining to non-elected personnel, in order to protect the privacy of the individual(s) Motion carried, 7-0. Returned to regular session at 10:10 p.m. A motion was made by Member Bagby and seconded by Member Pruett that Holton USD #336 recess to executive session for 15 minutes at 10:10 p.m. returning to regular session at 10:25 p.m. for the purpose of discussing: a. Matters pertaining to non-elected personnel, in order to protect the privacy of the individual(s) Motion carried, 7-0. February 13, 2006, Page 6

7 Returned to regular session at 10:25 p.m. A motion was made by Member Bagby and seconded by Member Heckerson to extend regular session for 30 minutes until 11:00 p.m. Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member McKinney and seconded by Member Bagby that Holton USD #336 recess to executive session for 10 minutes at 10:27 p.m. returning to regular session at 10:37 p.m. for the purpose of discussing: a. Matters pertaining to non-elected personnel, in order to protect the privacy of the individual(s) Motion carried, 7-0. Returned to regular session at 10:37 p.m. A motion was made by Member McKinney and seconded by Member Bagby that Holton USD #336 recess to executive session for 10 minutes at 10:37 p.m. returning to regular session at 10:47 p.m. for the purpose of discussing: a. Matters pertaining to non-elected personnel, in order to protect the privacy of the individual(s) Motion carried, 7-0. Returned to regular session at 10:47 p.m. A motion was made by Member Pruett and seconded by Member McKinney to approve the contract offer to Amee Pelton, RVMS Para Educator. Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member McKinney and seconded by Member Pruett to accept the Letters of Resignation from Michelle Teaford, RVMS Para Educator and Melissa Reves, IRC Instructor at Onaga. Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member Heckerson and seconded by Member Bagby to approve the Termination of employment of Leonard Prihoda. Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member LeDoux and seconded by Member Pruett to approve the hire of Judy Swisher and Wanda Guess as long term substitutes for the remainder of the school year pending receipt of current teaching certificates by August 1, Motion carried, 7-0. A motion was made by Member Pruett & Member McKinney and seconded by Member Bagby to approve one year extension of administrative contracts for Alan Beam, Mark C. Wilson, Mark B. Wilson, Rich Bechard, Susan Sipe, Elaine Nielson, Jay D. Nelson and Tom Sextro pending professional development plans, series of evaluation criteria to be provided with assistance of board members by July 1, Motion carried, 6-1 (LeDoux, opposing) Member LeDoux requested his reason to oppose be read into the minutes. "Mr. President, I cannot vote to add a year to administrative contracts that already run through June 30, I support our building principals. They are doing well at increasingly difficult jobs. February 13, 2006, Page 7

8 My reason for voting "no" is simple; I feel like all district employees should be treated the same. All teachers, cooks, janitors, teachers aides, bus drivers and all other employees have 1-year contracts. Administrators should be treated the same. Fairness is my motivating factor here. I am not trying to cause concern for our principals. I want to work with them and develop measurable goals for the future. Our present evaluation system is too weak. In order to move this district to new positive levels of achievement we all need to work towards more and better goals. I pledge myself to work on improving this system for the future. But, I do no think adding a year thus making these contracts go to July 30, 2008, is the right answer. Signed Trent LeDoux" A motion was made by Member Bagby and seconded by Member Pruett to approve $2,000 increase to administrators receiving one year extensions plus additional $1,000 to Elaine Nielson. Motion carried, 7-0. No further action taken. APPROVED MINUTES President Nelson adjourned the meeting at 10:55 p.m. Minutes as recorded by: Juanita (Jo) Krogman Clerk, Board of Education, Holton USD # Pennsylvania, Holton, KS February 13, 2006, Page 8