Reif also noted a decade-plus of anemic state funding has left Indiana’s veteran teachers far behind other states. Evidence suggests fewer young people are pursuing careers in education due to expected low pay.
Lowry thanked Reif for sharing this information and the teachers for their work with students.
The board approved the hiring of Michelle Miller as the new middle/high school assistant principal. She will join new principal Angie Radtke whose promotion was announced at last month’s meeting.
In other business, Superintendent Dan Zylstra reviewed the progress on the HVAC work being performed this summer, as well as other smaller projects around campus. Change orders and additions to the project were discussed, and Zylstra will continue to negotiate in the district’s interest.
The superintendent also reported a mid-year cash balance review showed the Education Fund down by roughly $20,000 since the first of the year. The June tax draw led to a surplus in the Operations Fund, which will be made up for by a smaller tax draw in December. The Rainy Day Fund is also down $50,000 from one year ago. The district will continue to look for ways to right-size its staffing levels for the existing number of students while funding essential programs. A potential staff stipend for COVID-19 will be discussed with the Teachers’ Association for later board discussion.
Personnel
The school board approved the resignations, as presented, of instructional assistant Tammy Conley and varsity boys basketball coach Bobby Aldridge (who will remain in his teaching position).
The board voted to cancel the teaching contract of Sarah Willis (also known as Kate DeMaat). After receiving a written notice of a preliminary decision to cancel her contract, Willis/DeMaat did not request a conference with the school superintendent as was her right according to state law. Therefore, the superintendent’s preliminary decision is considered final.
Approval was given by the board to transfer three individuals to the following positions:
- Dianna Maxwell - K-2 Interventionist
- Kasey Lowry - Title I K-6 Teacher
- Natalie Wenzel - Special Education
The board approved employment for the following:
- Lisa Hughes - Special Education
- Brittany Spoonemore - Classroom Teacher
- Kayla Butterfield - Classroom Teacher
- Michelle Miller - Assistant Principal
A conference request was approved for Cathy Risner to attend the NEISC Cafeteria Staff Day Out.
The board voted to approve the NIESC Food Services contract as presented.
The board approved the bus driver contracts as presented.
Additional business
The board approved the authorization of the superintendent to sign agreements for alternative and private residential school placements.
Approval was given to the adult meal pricing for 2021-22. It was noted that all K-12 students will be free for the 2021-22 school year as a result of the federal pandemic benefits. Families should still fill out forms for assistance for textbook rental to see if they qualify, as textbook rental is not covered by federal aid.
Adult breakfast will be $2.50 and adult lunch will be $4.60.
