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Board Agenda, Feb. 26

Friday, February 22nd, 2013

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, February 26, 2013 6:00 P.M.

Download PDF of agenda >>

I. Preliminary

A. Call to Order and Roll Call
B. Pledge of Allegiance
C. Approval of Board of Education Minutes . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the special meeting minutes of December 17, 2012 and regular meeting minutes of January 22, 2013 (including executive session minutes to be kept on file as confidential) and February 12, 2013 as presented.

II. Communications

Citizens Wishing to Address the Board of Education
Items on the agenda will be addressed at the appropriate time during the meeting. Items not on the agenda will be heard at this time. Comments should be limited to three (3) minutes. Matters regarding specific employees or students are of a confidential nature and will not be heard in open session.

III. Reports

A. Reports from Board Members
~Voting Members
~Students Members
B. Report from Superintendent
C. Report from RIEA Representative

IV. Nomination of Agenda Items for Future Meetings of the Board

V. Action on Routine Matters

A. Act on Agenda Additions and/or Deletions
B. Approve Agenda
C. Blanket Motion
Opportunity will be given for the selection of items that need no discussion to be approved at the appropriate time on the agenda. The following items are recommended for the Blanket Motion:
VI. B. Textbook Adoptions (1-2) VIII. E. List of Donations
VII. B. Head Start Application & Budget VIII. F. January Financials
VII. C. February Fund Raisers VIII. G. Bills for Payment
VIII. C. Intercom System Replacement IX. Personnel
VIII. D. RIHS Track Timing System

VI. Education

A. Student Academic Progress Report . . . Information
Dr. Zoul will update the Board on the academic progress of our students occurring during the current school year, focusing on Acuity test scores taken by students in the fall and again in February in the areas of Math and Language Arts, grades 3 – 8.
B. Textbook Adoptions . . . Action

1) Grades 6-8 Math
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of the “Big Ideas” math series published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for all students in grades 6-8 at a total cost of $113,176.31.
2) Grades 8-9 Math
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of Integrated High School Mathematics I published by Pearson at a cost of $52,694.19.

VII. Operations

A. Athletic Department Update . . . Information
Rock Island High School Athletic Director Chris Cartee will provide an update to the Board of Education on the Athletic Department Policies and Procedures.
B. Head Start Grant Application and Budget . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the 2013-14 Grant Application and Budget for the Head Start program.
C. February Fund Raiser Requests . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the February Fund Raiser requests.
D. FOIA Request . . . Information
The Administration received the following Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request: Mark Egan (Economic Ph.D. student at the University of Chicago) for contracts of educational facilities. The request was responded to within the allotted timeframe.

VIII. Business/Finance

A. 2013-14 Budget Considerations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education direct the Administration to prepare the 2013-14 budget with a deficit not to exceed $2.1 million. This would include implementation of Tier I reductions.
B. Building Permit Application – Longfellow . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the application for a Building Permit for the completion of roof work at Longfellow Elementary School.
C. Intercom System Replacement . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the proposal from Hughes Telephone, Inc., Moline, IL in the amount of $9,992.39 for the replacement and installation of the new intercom system at Denkmann Elementary School.
D. Track Timing System – Rock Island High School . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of the Fully Automatic Timing system from Lynx Systems Developers, Habbermill, MA in the amount of $12,065.00. Funded through Development Fund, RI-Milan Booster Club and Track Team Fund-raising.
E. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
F. January Financial Statements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the January Financial Statements.
G. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated February 15, 2013 in the amount of $2,970,331.15.

IX. Personnel (1)

Non-Certified Appointment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified Appointment of Michael DeWitte as presented.

X. Executive Session

It is recommended that the Board of Education move to executive session to discuss personnel.

XI. Personnel (2)

Administrative Appointments . . . Action
A motion may be provided for administrative appointments.

XII. Adjournment

Tags: 2013-2014 budget, Academic Athletes, Acuity, Athletic Director, athletics, budget, math curriculum
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Board Agenda, Feb. 12

Friday, February 8th, 2013

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, February 12, 2013 6:00 P.M.

Download PDF of agenda >>

I. Roll Call

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Special Item

Longfellow Liberal Arts . . . Recognition
The Board of Education will recognize Longfellow Liberal Arts School for earning the 2012 Academic Improvement Award. Principal Dave Knuckey will accept on behalf of the school.

IV. Reports from Board Members

V. Updates from the Superintendent

VI. Communications

A. Requests from persons wishing to speak on certain agenda items will be called upon at the appropriate time.
B. Citizens wishing to address the Board of Education on items not on the agenda.
Comments should be limited to three (3) minutes. (Matters regarding specific employees or students are of a confidential nature and will not be heard in open session.)

VII. Blanket Motion

Opportunity will be given for the selection of items that need no discussion to be approved at the appropriate time on the agenda. The following items are recommended for the Blanket Motion:
IX. A. Life/Safety Amendments (1-3) IX. D. Server & Software License Purchase
IX. B. Engineering Services (1-3) IX. E. Bills for Payment
IX. C. Copier Bid X. A-B. Personnel

VIII. Education

Secondary Math Pathway . . . Action
Dr. Zoul and Michelle Lillis will ask the Board to approve a recommendation to adopt the Integrated Math Pathway beginning with the 2013-14 school year.

IX. Business/Finance

A. Life/Safety Amendments . . . Action

1) Longfellow Elementary School
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Life/Safety Amendment for Longfellow Elementary School as presented.
2) Rock Island High School
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Life/Safety Amendment Phase 10 for Rock Island High School as presented.
3) Washington Jr. High School
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Life/Safety Amendment Phase 3 for Washington Jr. High School as presented.

B. Engineering Services for Life/Safety Amendments . . . Action

1) Longfellow Elementary School
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Missman, Inc., Bettendorf, IA, to provide engineering services for the Life/Safety restoration project at Longfellow Elementary School at a cost not to exceed $4,950.00.
2) Rock Island High School
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Missman, Inc., Bettendorf, IA, to provide engineering services for the exterior wall surface restoration – Phase 10 project at Rock Island High School at a cost not to exceed $9,825.00.
3) Washington Jr. High School
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Missman, Inc., Bettendorf, IA, to provide engineering services for the restoration phase 3 project at Washington Jr. High School at a cost not to exceed $6,000.00.

C. Copier Replacement . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education award the bid for Copier replacement at RICMS, Frances Willard, Eugene Field, Earl Hanson and the PPS Department to Xerox Corporation of Davenport, Iowa in the amount of $15,775.00.
D. Computer Servers Purchase and Software Licensing . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of two HP servers, software and licenses in the amount of $25,355.04 from CDWG for the Finance & Student Information Systems. Funding is included in the 2012-13 Technology budget.
E. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated January 31, 2013 in the amount of $3,208,337.20.

X. Personnel

A. Administrative Appointment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Administrative Appointment of Dr. M. Kathryn Taylor as the Director of Assessment and Accountability, effective July 1, 2013 at a salary of $113,060.25 ($109,060.25 base salary with $4,000 educational stipend).
B. Non-Certified Termination . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the termination of Non-Certified Employee No. 1-13-0405.

XI. Committee of the Whole

A. A.L.I.C.E. Update . . . Information
Kay Ingham will provide an update regarding the A.L.I.C.E. (Alert, Lockdown, inform, Counter, Evacuate) training recommendation.
B. ISAT Scoring Changes . . . Information
Dr. Zoul will present information about changes that are being implemented by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) in the way that the 2013 Illinois Standards Achievement Test (ISAT) will be scored as well as the composition of the test. He will share communication tools that schools and the district will use in making these changes known to the school community.
C. 2013-14 Budget Planning . . . Information
The administration will provide an update on financial projections for 2013- 14, the required plan to have a balanced budget, and the superintendent’s recommendation will be presented for budget development.

XII. Executive Session

It is recommended that the Board of Education move to executive session to discuss personnel.

XIII. Adjournment

Tags: A.L.I.C.E. safety, budget, ISAT, Longfellow
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Board Summary, July 24

Wednesday, July 25th, 2012

Nicole Hoffman, Alice Lee, Susan Lyon, Alexis Andrews, Amy Moffitt with Dr. Oberhaus and Mr. Cleaver.

The Board of Education recognized four RIMSD teachers at the first meeting of the school year on July 24. Dr. Oberhaus and President Cleaver presented certificates to Alexis Andrews (Frances Willard), Alice Lee (RICMS), Amy Moffitt (RICMS) and Susan Lyon (Ridgewood) in recognition of their completion of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy’s TIPP program. Nicole Hoffman from Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) said that the teachers started the program in February of 2012 and consisted of hands on development sessions for classroom teaching. The program encourages teaching that encourages students to question while learning, which is based on IMSA’s approach to inquiry. A Community STEM Festival is scheduled for August 23 at Frances Willard School from 4-6:30 p.m. and the board is welcome to attend.

Reports from Board
Dave Rockwell attended the Head Start Policy Council last Wednesday. Kim Armstrong attended registration day at Rock Island High School and commended the high school staff on the new process – it was very well organized. Linda Dothard acknowledged an email she received from a school district parent regarding the bus contract. Paula Rummels attended the BHASED meeting on June 28. Jim Bishop also attended registration at Rock Island High School and also commended the high school staff about the easy process and organization of the event.

Superintendent Report
Dr. Oberhaus reported that Illinois Governor Quinn signed off on the state budget, which resulted in $1.8 million less in state aid for the school district. Therefore, the school district budget will reflect a $3.9 million deficit instead of $2.1 million deficit as originally reported in June. Administration is not going to look into additional staff reductions, the school district will look for efficiencies throughout the year to save money. Also, the State of Illinois assembly is still looking at strategies for pension reform. The option to move the burden to local districts is still on the table and Dr. Oberhaus expects the issue to come up again soon. The Promise Neighborhood grant is being submitted this Friday. It is a great collaborative effort between many organizations and municipalities. Thanks to Lucille Davis, Kathy Taylor, Tim Wernentin and Virginia Jarrett for helping to coordinate the effort on behalf of the school district. School begins on August 3, (full day). Registration was completed last week and enrollments have increased. On August 2, the staff is gathering for Opening Day at the High School, 7:30 a.m. is breakfast. The board is welcome to attend.

2012-2013 Budget Hearing
President Cleaver opened the 2012-2013 budget hearing at 6:28 p.m. Chief Financial Officer Bob Beckwith reported that the general state aid level dropped, and as a result the school district will receive $1.8 million less from the state this year. Now the additional reduction in state aid will result in $3.9 million deficit in the 2012-2013 school district budget. In addition, the school district needs $15 million in reserves to stay solvent, otherwise the school district could be put in a situation to borrow money. Beckwith felt that pension reform is the next issue on the horizon. The discussion is on the back burner in the state legislature at the moment but will be in the forefront again soon. It is not likely that the district would have to implement pension reform in 2012-2013, but could happen for 2013-2014. The board voted unanimously to adopt the 2012-2013 budget.

Education – Teaching and Learning Update
Dr. Jeff Zoul, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, is officially on board and happy to be in the Rock Island-Milan School District. He complimented the school board on their involvement with the school district. His “Teaching and Learning” title reflects his philosophy – he is passionate about teaching and students. A high quality teacher is the single most important variable relating to student learning, and his job to ensure teaching Excellence Every Day.

This year there will be a lot of focus on the transition to Common Core State Standards. The district did a lot of work last year to align the curriculum to the standards to get ready for the transition. It is very important for the district to communicate to all stakeholders what the standards are and why they are important for student learning.

The district received preliminary data on ISAT and PSAE scores. The data received show a flat ISAT growth in comparison to the previous year, however the PSAE data did show notable growth from the previous year.

Other Items:

Board approved revisions to policies 3:40, 4:60, 4:120, 4:180, 5:70, 5:130, 5:280, 6:70, 6:180, 6:235, 7:50, 7:80, 7:140, 7:220, 7:250, 7:275 and 7:340. The policies were reviewed and read at the June 12 meeting.
Board approved Fall Sports Supplies purchase from several vendors and district forms from Artcraft and Printer’s Mark.
Board approved a contract for the Leader in Me 7 Habits Signature Program at Denkmann, Eugene Field and Frances Willard Elementary Schools. All costs will be funded through the John Deere Foundation Grant.
Board approved a contract with Pearson for Work Sampling for the Head Start program.
Board approved services with Write Tools for Earl Hanson and Rock Island Academy.
Board awarded a contract to Hawkeye Food Services for the Fresh Fruits and Vegetables grant program.
Board awarded a contract to Little Caesar’s for pizza service.
Board approved the purchase of a gas stacked combi oven.
Board approved the purchase of 25 MacBook Pro Computers.
Board approved the purchase of 40 iPads for Earl Hanson Elementary.
Board approved fundraising requests from Edison Jr. High and Ridgewood Elementary.
Board acknowledged donations from Lynn Rumler ($108 to RI Academy for Trivia Night); Carol Clay ($160 to RI Academy for Trivia Night); Deltas ($40 to RI Academy for Trivia Night); Inspire Giving ($50 to RI Academy); and Gloria and Victor Day Foundation ($632 for Earl Hanson School Carnival).

Tags: 2012-2013 budget, ACT, Acuity, budget, curriculum, IMSA
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Board Agenda July 24

Friday, July 20th, 2012

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, JULY 24, 2012 6:00 P.M.

Download PDF of agenda >>

I. Preliminary

A. Call to Order and Roll Call
B. Pledge of Allegiance
C. Approval of Board of Education Minutes . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the regular meeting minutes of June 12, 2012 and June 26, 2012 (including executive session to remain confidential) as presented.

II. Communications

III. Reports

A. Reports from Board Members
B. Report from Superintendent
C. Report from RIEA Representative

IV. Nomination of Agenda Items for Future Meetings of the Board

V. Action on Routine Matters

A. Act on Agenda Additions and/or Deletions
B. Approve Agenda
C. Blanket Motion
Opportunity will be given for the selection of items that need no discussion to be approved at the appropriate time on the agenda. The following items are recommended for the Blanket Motion:
VIII. A. Board Policy Revisions IX. F. Computer Purchase
VIII. C. July Fund Raisers IX. G. iPad Purchase
IX. B. Contracts (1-6) IX. H. Longfellow Accounts
IX. C. Fall Sports Supplies IX. I. List of Donations
IX. D. District Forms IX. J. Bills for Payment
IX. E. Gas Stacked Combi Oven X. Personnel

VI. Special Items

A. Staff Recognitions . . . Action
The Board of Education will recognize RIMSD teachers Alexis Andrews (Frances Willard), Alice Lee (RICMS), Amy Moffitt (RICMS) and Susan Lyon (Ridgewood) for completing the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) Teaching for Inquiry Preparation and Practice (TIPP) program.
B. 2012-13 Budget . . . Hearing
The Board of Education will conduct a public hearing on the 2012-13 Budget.

VII. Education

Teaching and Learning Update . . . Information
Dr. Jeff Zoul, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning, will provide an update on various aspects of Curriculum Instruction, and Assessment. Dr. Zoul will share initial insights regarding key district beliefs, goals, results, challenges, and next steps in the area of Teaching and Learning.

VIII. Operations

A. Second Reading of Board Policies . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the revisions to Board Policies 3:40 Superintendent, 4:60 Purchases and Contracts, 4:120 Food Services, 4:180 Operational Services – Pandemic Preparedness, 5:70 Religious Holidays, 5:130 Responsibilities Concerning Internal Information, 5:280 Duties and Qualifications, 6:70 Instruction: Teaching About Religions, 6:180 Instruction: Extended Instructional Programs, 6:235 Instruction: Access to Electronic Networks, 6:290 Instruction Homework, 7:50 School Admissions and Student Transfers to and from Non-District Schools, 7:80 Students – Release Time for Religious Instruction/Observance, 7:140 Search and Seizure, 7:220 Bus Conduct, 7:250 Student Support Services, 7:275 Orders to Forgo Life-Sustaining Treatment, and 7:340 Students – Student Records.
B. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests . . . Information
The Administration received the following FOIA requests: 1) Gregory E. Moy, M.Ed. requesting district policies regarding the social and emotional development of students; 2) Rebecca Franklin, Invo Health Care Associates, Inc. requesting copies of documents containing current contract rates for positions in the Pupil Personnel Services Department; 3) Angel Spence, Great Clips, to get information to the Booster Club; and 4) David Bullock requesting student information. The requests were responded to within the allotted time.
C. July Fund Raisers . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the July Fund Raisers.

IX. Business/Finance

A. 2012-13 Budget Adoption . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education adopt the 2012-13 Budget as presented.
B. Contracts . . . Action

1) Leader in Me – District
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the contracts with FranklinCovey Client Sales, Inc., Salt Lake City, UT, at a cost of $26,851.00 plus travel expenses for the Leader in Me 7 Habits Signature Program at Denkmann, Eugene Field and Frances Willard Elementary Schools. All costs will be funded through the John Deere Foundation Grant.
2) Work Sampling– Head Start
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the contract with Pearson – Work Sampling, Minneapolis, MN, at a cost of $6,612.50 for online Work Sampling services for the Head Start program.
3) Write Tools – District
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the agreement with Write Tools, Centennial, CO, at a cost of $19,350.00 for services at Earl Hanson and the Academy.
4) Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Bid
It is recommended that the Board of Education award a contract to Hawkeye Food Service Distribution in the amount of $0.90 per case for Fresh Fruits and Vegetables.
5) Pizza Bid
It is recommended that the Board of Education award a contract to Little Caesar’s Pizza at an estimated cost of $32,040.00 for Pizza.
6) Diane Sharp – Jordan Catholic School
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the contract for Diane Sharp to provide supplemental reading instruction for targeted Title I students at Jordan Catholic School. Contract paid with Title I funds.

C. Fall Sports Supplies Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of sports supplies from AAE, Royersford, PA – $40.80, BSN, Dallas, TX – $518.48, Haydens, Montgomery, IL – $962.40, Toledo P.E. Supply, Toledo, OH - $369.50, Sports Depot, Rock Island, IL – $512.20 and Temples, Moline, IL – $12,439.66 for a total cost of $14,843.04.
D. District Forms Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of district forms from Printers Mark, Rock Island, IL – $893.59 and Artcraft, Rock Island, IL – $10,500.23. Total cost is $11,393.82.
E. Gas Stacked Combi Oven Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of a Gas Stacked Combi Oven from Tri-City Equipment in the amount of $36,745.00.
F. Apple MacBook Laptop Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of 25 MacBook Pro 13-inch, 2.5GHz/4G/500BB/SuperDrive laptops with a three year extended warranty from Apple Computer at a total cost of $30,500.77. These funds are allocated for computer purchases in the 2012-13 budget.
G. iPad Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of 40 Apple iPads at a cost of $14,655.84 for use at Earl Hanson Elementary School. H. Longfellow Account Changes . . . Action It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the removal of the Playground, Student Funds, Stout Grant and Environmental Grant sub accounts at Longfellow due to $0 balance.
I. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
J. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated June 15, 2012 in the amount of $3,240,185.06, June 30, 2012 in the amount of $3,505,721.40, and July 13, 2012 in the amount of $2,934,205.60.

X. Personnel

A. Administrative Appointments . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Administrative Appointments of Kristin Allen, Craig Brackney, Camille Carlz, Michael Hawley and Tia Rice.
B. Certified Appointments . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the following Certified Appointments: Nicole LaVarier, Kelly Preston and Kendrick Burrage.
C. Certified Rehire . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the rehiring of the following certified staff member: Krystal Padilla.
D. Certified Resignation . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the certified resignation of Elizabeth Mendoza.
E. Administrative Resignation . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the administrative resignation of Cory Williams.
F. Administrative Retirement . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the administrative retirement of Georgia Kouris effective June 30, 2012.
G. Non-Certified Appointments:
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the non-certified appointments of Nick Camlin and Stacie Clark.
H. Non-Certified Rehire . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the rehiring of non-certified staff member Sarah Freeman.

XI. Executive Session

It is recommended that the Board of Education move to executive session for the purpose of discussing negotiations and the evaluation of the superintendent.

XII. Adjournment

Tags: 2012-2013 budget, budget, Common Core Standards, curriculum, ISAT, PSAE
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Board Summary, March 27

Wednesday, March 28th, 2012

Washington MathCounts Team

The Board of Education started the March 27 meeting with student recognitions. The Washington Jr. High MathCounts Team of Sabrina Alt, Jake Aunan, Alex Axup, Matt Benson, Maggie Flowers, Melissa Hagerty, Logan Haskill, Elizabeth Moore, Will Pohl and Kylie Wymer along with teacher Kirk Humphreys were presented certificates for their success at the competition in February. Read more >>

The board also congratulated the Rock Island High School Girls Basketball team members for being named to the All-State Metro Teams in the Dispatch/Argus and Quad City Times: Shavonne Brewer, Sarita Goldsmith, Shamell Mangrum and Rayven Morrow. Teammates Katie Thompson and Jaqueline Twing were also recognized for being IHSA and WB6 Academic Athletes and for being Three Point Shootout finalists after the game season.

Principal Phil Ambrose of Thurgood Marshall Learning Center also received special recognition for receiving the Middle School Principal of the Year award from the Illinois Principal’s Association. Read more >>

In a special ceremony, the Board of Education presented 89 year old Junior McAdams with a diploma. McAdams was a student at Rock Island High School and left before graduating in 1941 to join the National Guard and serve overseas in World War II. Board President Bill Cleaver presented Junior with an official Rock Island High School diploma, dated 1942, and dubbed him as the “oldest living graduate of Rock Island High School.” Read about McAdams in the Dispatch Argus and Quad City Times

Girls Basketball All-Metro Team members

Board Member Reports
Dave Rockwell expressed his thanks to the board and RIMSD staff for their thoughts and prayers after the loss of his father. He appreciated the support and kind notes. On Thursday night, the Neighborhood Partners organization is hosting their annual Neighborhood Rendezvous, 6:30 – 8 p.m. at the new Jackson Square in downtown Rock Island. The Rock Island High School Speech team did very well at the IHSA state competition over the weekend. The team placed 6th for their production, Agnes of God. They will be performing a special showing of their production his Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. at the Rock Island High School Auditorium.

Kim Armstrong presented a flyer from a conference in which Rock Island High School students were featured on the front. She also congratulated the Rock Island Girls Track Team for their 6-0 record. They will be running in Moline this Saturday, March 31, 9:00 a.m. at Browning Field.

Linda Dothard is planning to attend the upcoming school board member-training event on the Open Meetings Act.

Bill Cleaver congratulated Mr. McAdams on his diploma and was glad to be able to celebrate the occasion with him.

Student board member Paris Roberts acknowledged the Rock Island High School Environmental Action Club – over break they volunteered at the Expo Center and helped clean up the facility after the Garden Show.

Student Board member Sam Ferry announced upcoming events: next week the high school will have a band event to help recruit grade school students. On April 16 the Jazz Band will also host the 9th Annual Jazz Night in cafeteria. He also congratulated the Jr. ROTC unit at high school. The team traveled to Bolingbrook last weekend for drill competition and they were very successful. The also have another competition coming up in April.

Superintendent Update
Dr. Oberhaus welcomed back everyone for the 4th quarter and encouraged board members to go out and visit the schools. He congratulated the Boys Basketball Team members who were presented on the All Metro Team in the Dispatch Argus – Denzel McCauley, Marquel Beasley and Brian Richardson. Also, congratulations to Rocky swimmer Charles Holliday who was named Swimmer of the Year by the Dispatch/Argus. Several other swim team members also made the list to the All-Metro Swim Team: The School District is eligible for a $50,000 maintenance program grant and Operations Supervisor Mr. Eastman and CFO Bob Beckwith are planning use of the grant funds. The Certified staff received training on the Charlotte Danielson Teacher Evaluation model at the Monday In-Service. The Danielson framework is default model used by the State Board of Education.

2012-2013 Budget
Dr. Oberhaus reviewed the proposed 2012-2013 budget and financial circumstances that the school district is currently experiencing. The administration received feedback regarding the Tier I and Tier II reduction lists over the last couple of weeks, and Dr. Oberhaus also discussed the items with board members. Several staff and community members approached the board and spoke in favor of keeping Jr. High Counselor and Dean positions at the current structure, keeping school district library staff and the Minority Teacher Incentive Program (MTIP). After some discussion, the board voted to direct administration to build the 2012-2013 budget with a deficit no larger than $2.2 million. Two major items moved from the Tier I to the Tier II reductions at the meeting were the Minority Teacher Incentive Program ($20,000) and the Junior High Dean/Counselor position ($110,000). Those two programs will be maintained in the school district for the 2012-2013 budget year. View the presentation from the board meeting >>

Other Items:

The board approved two overnight trip applications: Washington Jr. High School Student Council to attend the 53rd annual Illinois Association of Junior High Student Council State Convention in Springfield, IL, April 20-21, 2012; Washington Jr. High School Student Council to attend the 2013 Leadership, Education And Development (LEAD) Conference February 14-18, 2013.
The board reviewed revisions to Board policies 2:120, 2:190, 2:200, 4:110, 4:170, 5:10, 5:30, 5:125, 5:190, 5:220, 5:260, 5:285, 6:50, 6:110, 6:280, 7:100, 7:190 and 7:270.
The membership renewal to the IHSA for the 2012-13 school year was approved.
Board approved the purchase of 30 MacBook Air computers from Apple Computer for a cost of $33,540.00. Title I funds will be used for this purchase.
The board acknowledged a list of donations from Knights of Columbus of $1,800.00 Teachers classroom/building use at Horace Mann E.L.C.; Cub Scout Pack 250 of $100.00 for School marquee at the Rock Island Center for Math & Science; HHC Brokerage of $100.00 for purchase a microwave for the Washington Jr. High cafeteria; Mighty Fortress Community of $400.00 for Winning Warrionr Breakfast Washington Jr. High School
The board approved Personnel requests: resignation and retirement of Jack Weese (Rock Island High School); resignation of Emily Jackson; and the appointment of Banderembako and Terri Watson.
The board approved the hiring of Dr. Jeffrey Zoul as the new Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction for the school district. He will start on July 1, 2012.

Tags: 2012-2013 budget, Academic Athletes, budget, Math Counts
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Board Agenda, Feb. 27

Friday, February 24th, 2012

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
MONDAY, February 27, 2012 5:45 P.M.

The meeting will begin with a reception for student athletes from the Rock Island High School soccer team and students who received honors for their essays at the Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration. The regular meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Board Agenda PDF >>

I. Preliminary

II Special Item

Student Athletes from the Rock Island High School Soccer Team . . . Recognition
The Board will recognize the following student athletes from the Rock Island High School Soccer Team: Gregray Davis, Redemer Gbeddeh, Xavier Pendelton, Edgar Brown, Diego Marceleno and Nathan Trimble.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration Award Winners . . . Recognition
The Board will recognize the following students for their awards at the Martin Luther King Day Celebration: Tyia Schauland, Katie Moore, Elizabeth Moore, Jalea Jackson and Bryanne Trice.

III. Communications

IV. Reports

A. Reports from Board Members
Voting Members
Student Members
B. Report from Superintendent
C. Report from RIEA Representative

V. Nomination of Agenda Items for Future Meetings of the Board

VI. Action on Routine Matters

A. Act on Agenda Additions and/or Deletions
B. Approve Agenda
C. Blanket Motion
Opportunity will be given for the selection of items that need no discussion to be approved at the appropriate time on the agenda. The following items are recommended for the Blanket Motion:
VII. B. Head Start Application IX. B. List of Donations
VII. C. Overnight Field Trip IX. C. Bills for Payment
VIII. February Fund Raisers X. A-E. Personnel

VII. Education

A. School Improvement Plans . . . Action
Kathryn Taylor and Nancy Galbraith will present the School Improvement Plans for Frances Willard and Ridgewood. At the conclusion, the Board will be asked to approve the plans as presented.
B. Early Childhood Report . . . Information/Action
Mike Russell and Nicole Schlotfeldt will provide a report on the early childhood education programs in District #41.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the submission of the 2012-13 application for federal assistance for the Head Start program.
C. Overnight Field Trip Request . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the overnight field trip request for the Air Force Jr. ROTC Drill Team to compete in the Walter E. Stebbins High School AFJROTC Drill Team Championship in Riverside, OH, March 29-30, 2012.

VIII. Operations

February Fund Raiser Requests . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the February Fund Raiser Requests.

IX. Business/Finance

A. 2012-13 Budget . . . Information
The Administration will provide a draft recommendation for the preparation of the 2012-13 budget.
B. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
C. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated February 15, 2012 in the amount of $3,008,187.25.

X. Personnel

A. 2011-12 Administrator/Teacher Retirements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the list of the 2011-12 administrator and teacher retirements as presented.
B. 2011-12 Non-Certified Retirements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the list of the 2011-12 non-certified retirements as presented.
C. Non-Certified Appointments . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified Appointments of Kevin Lucas, Holly Moreland, Joan Pearson and Matthew Wolever.
D. Non-Certified Resignations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the Non-Certified Resignations of Jessica Matherly and Bridget Niyon as presented.
E. Non-Certified Retirement . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified Retirement of Laura Lundberg, effective February 10, 2012, as presented.

XI. Adjournment

Tags: 2012-2013 budget, Academic Athletes, budget, Frances Willard, Martin Luther King Jr., Ridgewood, school improvement plan
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Board Summary, Jan 10

Wednesday, January 11th, 2012

Student athletes recognized at Board of Education meeting

Dr. Oberhaus, Board President Bill Cleaver and coaches acknowledged Rock Island High School student athletes from the fall semester who were recognized as Dispatch Argus and QC Times All Metro athletes. Kelly Bishop, Courtney Kernan, Maggie Pappas, Katie Thompson, Laurel Enstrom, Mia Kavensky, Joe Johnson, Thomas Knuckey, Billy Mosenfelder, Celeste Arteaga and Eric Ikundiro for their outstanding performances in swimming, golf and cross-country.

The new Rock Island High School Head Football Coach and Development Director was formally hired. Bryan Stortz will start with the school district on July 1 >>

Reports from Board Members

Dave Rockwell acknowledged the Rock Island High School choir and orchestra for their Christmas programs. He also attended Head Start policy council meeting, discussion revolved around the budget and some cuts that will occur next year in funding. Rockwell appreciates the Head Start staff and the work that they do. Kim Armstrong congratulated Edison Jr. High on a great career day in December. Sherry O’Keefe did a great job coordinating the professionals. Linda Dothard will be attending the Illinois Liquid Asset Fund meeting on January 19, and will also be attending the Law conference coming up later in January. Jim Veasey attended the Earl Hanson Christmas concert. The program was well put together and the students did a great job.

Superintendent Update
Dr. Oberhaus congratulated the board for completing the TAG training through IASB. He presented a certificate of completion and commended the board for their dedication in completing the training.

Edison Jr. High School Improvement Plan
Principal Gary Flecker presented information about the Edison Junior High School Improvement plan. Four Rising Star indicators were selected as the school goals: reaching achievement goals in reading and math (as measured by the ISAT); using Acuity for assessments; transition to Common Core standards; enhance school safety and respect. Instructional Leadership is a priority at Edison, and Mr. Flecker plans on making frequent classroom visits, meeting with the School Improvement team twice a month, and reinforcing “bell-to-bell” instruction.

Illinois Education Reform
Dr. Oberhaus gave the board an overview of two pieces of education legislation from the State of Illinois that will impact the school district’s evaluation measures and contract negotiation processes: Senate Bill 315 (SB 315) and Senate Bill 7 (SB7).

SB 315 ties student performance data to teacher and principal evaluations. Within the bill is the Performance Evaluation Reform Act (PERA), which requires all teacher evaluations to incorporate ratings of, excellent, proficient, needs improvement and unsatisfactory. The school district has been using the ratings since the 2009-2010 year and probably won’t incorporate student growth component into evaluations until September of 2016.

Administration and the Rock Island Education Association (RIEA) formed a committee to draft an evaluation instrument to implement the requirements of PERA. Several meetings have been conducted and partial areas of the evaluation model have been completed. Preparation, instruction, classroom management and professional development are main areas being determined. The certified staff in the school district recently went through training on the Charlotte Danielson improvement model and will receive follow up training later in March. The Danielson model/framework identifies aspects of a teacher’s responsibilities that empirical studies have demonstrated as promoting improved student learning. The Danielson framework divides the complex activity of teaching into twenty-two components clustered into four domains of teaching responsibility: (1) planning and preparation, (2) the classroom environment, (3) instruction, and (4) professional responsibilities.

The evaluation instrument will need to be approved by both board and association members. If a teacher receives an unsatisfactory rating, the process entails a remediation plan of 90 days with mid-point and final evaluations during the remediation plan implementation. If after that time the teacher is not rated as proficient, the teacher will be dismissed.

Principal Evaluation starts 2012-2013 and there is no state model. Requires at least two conferences with principal and written feedback must be completed. Evaluations must be done by March 1.

SB 7 involves changes to negotiations, filling new or vacant positions, reduction in force and tenure. Negotiation changes relate to allowing mediation to occur at an earlier point in the process. If the parties cannot agree after 15 days of mediation, either party may declare an impasse. SB7 also allows the offers from each side to be made public after 7 days after the declaration of an impasse.

Vacancies will be filled based upon certification and qualifications, not seniority and reductions in force will be based on groupings categorized by evaluation ratings. In tenure, it will take three years to achieve the status if the teacher is rated as excellent for all three years. If a teacher is coming from another district, tenure can be achieved in two years if the prior school district rated proficient or excellent for the teacher. The mentality of “last in; first out” will be obsolete. The district needs to provide a list of groupings to the RIEA 75 days before end of school year. The grouping list has to go to RIEA by Feb. 1.

Staff Diversity Report
Jim Andrews, Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, said staff diversity is an ongoing conversation in the school district. Fluctuations do occur, however staff diversity is a priority and administration will continue to work to that end. The school district has wavered between 8.6% minority teachers to the current 12.6% minority teachers in the last 9 years. The Rock Island-Milan School District does employ the highest percentage of diverse teachers in comparison to other school districts in the area.

The district has its own methods of keeping minority teachers interested and developing the next generation of school district leaders by implementing a training series called Aspiring Administrators. The Grow Your Own Program is also a focus to recruit minority teachers back to the school district.

2012-2013 Budget Update
CFO Bob Beckwith gave an overview of how the school district budget and forecast for 2012-2013. The school district’s budget is made up of nine different funds and all have specific uses and/or expenses restricted to those funds. State Revenue makes up 38% of budget; Federal Revenue 20% of budget; Locally is 41% of budget. Salaries and benefits are the largest portion of the budget in the education fund and make up 86.5% of the expenditures.

Originally the school district was looking at 7-9% reduction in Federal money and 10% reduction in State money as of early December, based on information that Beckwith received from the State of Illinois and other sources. That information brought the projected 2012-2013 budget deficit to $6,369,011. However, at the beginning of January Gov. Quinn indicated that he planned for a flat level for education funding. With that in mind, Beckwith adjusted the 2012-2013 projected deficit to $4,226,472. “The deficit could fall between those two numbers, and that is the best determination we can come to at this point.”

Other Items:

The board heard a reading of changes to Board Policy 6:300 and approved the revisions of Board Policies 2:250, 3:60, 4:80, 5:90, 5:100, 5:200, 5:240, 6:60, 6:150, 6:320, and 7:305.
Board approved the contract with Frontline Technologies, Exton, PA, in the amount of $7,137.70 to set up an automated substitute placement and absence management system (Aesop) and to train staff on the program.
Board approved the purchase of Steps to Respect curriculum kits for elementary staff members at a cost of $10,094.00 (funded through Illinois Violence Prevention Authority grant funds) and the purchase of Second Step curriculum kits for elementary and junior high staff members at a cost of $8,558.00 (funded from the Illinois State Board of Education’s Children’s Mental Health grant funds).
Board approved the Certified Appointment of Michelle Hansen and the Non-certified appointment of Uwimana Regine.
Board approved the Project Lead the Way Agreement for Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics (STEM) education curricular program.

Tags: 2012-2013 budget, budget, Edison, education reform
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Board Summary, Nov. 8

Wednesday, November 9th, 2011

The PRIDE of Rock Island 2011 "Hardware"

Student board members Sam Ferry and Zavier Clark shared the 2011 Marching Band Trophies with the Board of Education. On October 29, the band received 2nd Place at Western Illinois University competition and placed 12th at the IHSA State Competition at Illinois State University. The Marching Band also placed 3rd in the Morton Competition (on Sept. 17); took 2nd place in Metamora (Oct. 8 ) along with best colorguard and crowd pleaser; placed 4th at University of Illinois (Oct. 22) and also received best colorguard and best drumline. Zavier Clark also announced the annual Rocky student vs. staff basketball game is coming up this Saturday, in the Fieldhouse at 7:30 p.m., and the staff better be ready for the challenge. The students are motivated to win this year.

Reports from Board members
Dave Rockwell welcomed President Cleaver back after a long absence and also thanked Linda Dothard for serving as president in the meantime. The Annual Booster Club Raffle and Dance on Nov. 5 was a great success. The event had a record crowd and for first time sold all 250 tickets in the history of the 26 year fundraiser. Mr. Rockwell also thanked the schools for getting involved and recognized the Rock Island High School staff for purchasing 30 tickets and Washington Jr. High for purchasing 12 tickets. “It’s a tribute to the community for supporting the booster and schools.”

Dr. Kim Armstrong commended RIHS staff members Sterling Kingery, Mike Hawley and an intern for bringing 61 Rocky students to BlackHawk College for a visit. The students represented the school well. The PACER students from Rocky attended the QC Minority Youth Conference. The conference had 120 student from many different schools. The Quad City Minority Partnership Math & Science program also had Rocky students attend, one of which was Zavier Clark. Read article in the QC Times >>

Linda Dothard reported that she will be attending the National Association of Black School Board members at the annual conference in New Orleans. Dr. Bishop visited the Give Kids a Smile Bus at Eugene Field last week. The new mobile facility has three treatment bays and 34 children were seen from the school. The bus will visit other schools. Mr. Veasey attended the Thurgood Marshall Chili Supper for Hunger Drive and also attended the Head Start Policy Council meeting.

Superintendent Update
Dr. Oberhaus reported that the Athletic Director application screening process resulted in six individuals scheduled for interviews on Wednesday. A recommendation should be to the Board by the end of November.

Coffee and Conversations community forums have been scheduled again this year: December 3rd, Happy Joes in Milan, at 9:00 a.m., December 8th, Martin Luther King Center at 6:30 p.m., and December10th, Rock Island HyVee, 9:00 a.m. These meetings provide an informal forum for community members to ask questions and learn a little about the District. You are all invited to attend any or all of the forums.

The Volleyball team again won the Regional crown. They lost a close sectional battle last week. Congratulations to the Volleyball team!

In honor of School Board Member appreciation day on November 15th, Dr. Oberhaus honored the board members by thanking them for serving many hours for the good of the students in Rock Island and Milan. “We are blessed in this community to have seven very dedicated individuals that have a passion for every child in the District. They are the leaders that provide the direction of our district to ensure success for each child and staff member. They make very difficult budget decisions to maintain fiscal integrity.”

Committee of the Whole
Dr. Oberhaus presented board members with a set of test questions from the 2011 ISAT test including 5th grade Math and Reading examples. The exams are timed, which make it difficult for some children to complete the questions, and in some instances the students will also rush through without thinking. See sample test questions >>

Assistant Superintendent Bill Osborne reviewed the demographics of the test data from the results of the ISAT/PSAE. Rock Island s a diverse city, and the school district has seen an increase in two sub groups: the English Language Learners (ELL) population and the low income population (currently at 64.5%). The Special Ed group (IEP) has declined to 15.6%, which is a testament to the Response to Intervention (RtI) model has been very beneficial to determine the best solution for student’s needs.

The school district is working on implementing systems to drive curriculum, instruction and assessment. A new school improvement tool, Rising Star, is being used to implement School Improvement Plans (SIP). The system is based on research and best practices of successful school districts. The continued transition to Common Core in addition to building an articulated curriculum will help the district tackle issues with the achievement gap and address sub group issues. The new Acuity assessment system will help drive instruction in the classroom and pinpoint specific issues in student learning.

RIHS Principal Tim Wernentin remarked that the high school improvement team met and came up with 100 strategies to address student achievement. The team will prioritize the list in the coming month. The school is also using the AYP data to identify students who need extra help. Short-term strategies such as implementing a PSAE prep class and incorporating more multiple-choice tests to familiarize students with the format will head things in the right direction. In the long term, the high school will work to implement the new Common Core standards and continue to use the Acuity assessment system.

Principal Wernentin also talked to students and asked them about the tests and what would make a difference. The answers varied, however the students see the relevance of ACT but have difficulty focusing on the PSAE. Wernentin believes that instilling the same sense of Rocky Pride in academics (as in athletics and extra/co curricular activities) will also help the school’s achievement.

Five-Year Financial Projections
Chief Financial Officer Bob Beckwith reviewed criteria and target goals that the school district uses to determine financial goals. As reported in the audit last session, district revenues increased 4.5% through 2008 -11; expenditures increased 11.61% from 2008-11; the education fund balance is $23.1 million.

For 2012-2013 assumptions Mr. Beckwth plans for property tax growth at 1%; corporate taxes to remain flat; and a salaries increase of 0% (plus steps and lanes). For 2012-2013 there is a projected deficit at $4,633,456. Increases in salaries, steps & lanes and health costs take up much of the deficit ($4.1 million). Health insurance benefits also continue to rise.

For the next 5 years, Mr. Beckwith expects property taxes increase 1.0% per year and corporate taxes to remain constant. Competitive grants will reduce each year. He is planning for a salary increase of 0% in 2012-13 (plus steps and lanes); a 1% increase for 2013-14 and a 1.5% increase in 2014-15 thru 2016-17 (plus steps and lanes). Fringe benefits increase 10% per year and all other costs increase 3% per year. Steps cost the district $640,000 annually and lane changes $140,000 annually. A one percent increase in salary costs the school district $435,000 annually.

2011 Tax Levy
Chief Financial Officer Bob Beckwith estimated that the 2011 property tax levy for the school district will be $28,366,050, which is a 1.99% increase over the 2010. The projected tax rate for 2011 is $5.1145, a slight decrease from the previous year’s rate of $5.1148. The Equalized Assessed Valuation (EAV) for the District is estimated at $550,405,497 million, representing an increase of 1.22% over the 2010 EAV.

Property taxes account for approximately 40% of the district’s budget and are the most stable form of revenue for the district. The rest of the district revenue is depended on from the State of Illinois, which calculates its number based on the amount of property taxes levied. An increase in tax levy results in less money for the district from the State of Illinois. Additionally, there are six Tax Increment Financing (TIF) in the school district encompasses 6 Tax Increment Financing (TIF) areas, of which the EAV total comes to $87,443,416. The additional revenue would mean $2.8 million for the Education Fund, however the district is not allowed to receive a portion of TIF areas.

On December 13 the board will conduct a hearing and then adopt the 2011 levy.

Tags: AYP update, budget, ISAT, property tax levy, PSAE, school improvement plan, student board members
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Board Summary, August 9

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011

The Rock Island Board of Education reviewed 2011-2012 budget information with updated figures from the state and federal level. This years local revenue up slightly, and state funds are up as well. Property taxes saw an increase due to EAV growth. Food service and interest income are down (economy driven) and there are no change in corporate taxes.

State revenue increased by $1.6 million. The district’s average daily attendance increased last year which means an increase in funds for the district. On the federal level, this is the second year of the job funding measure. The district’s ARRA funding ended, and there was a decrease in Title II and Title III funding as well.

Salary expenditures increased, which takes up 87% of the district’s budget. The district was able to keep health costs at bay due to a surplus in the Health Insurance Fund balance that is allowed to be used for those purposes. Previously grant funded positions for library paras and other para-professionals were absorbed into the budget this year, however some administrative positions were eliminated (due to attrition) and a Driver’s Ed Instruction position was eliminated. No new textbook adoptions are planned for this year, although there is money to replace. Supply expenditures are also down.

Mr. Beckwith anticipates an overall budget deficit of $970,000. The budget will be placed on file for 30 days and there will be a public hearing conducted at the Board of Education meeting on Sept. 13. View presentation (PDF) >>

Board Member Reports
Mr. Veasey attended the annual Rally at the Rock last Friday at the high school. There was a good turnout by students and the boosters cooked a lot of hot dogs. He thanked the Booster Club and Rock Island High School Principal Tim Wernentin for their efforts, it was a great event. Dr. Kim Armstrong attended the BIX Brady street sprints hill run on July 29. There were many great athletes at the races and the Rocky girls came in second place. The Rocky boys placed first in their event. She also attended the Martin Luther King Center family fun day. Ms. Linda Dothard attended King center family fun day as well. She also announced that on Aug 25 the NAACP will be hosting a meet and greet for the new RIHS principal, Tim Wernentin, at the King Center and she invited the community to attend the event. A flyer will be distributed with more information.

Superintendent Update
The Rock Island-Milan School District welcomed back students to school last week and he is glad to see the students back in school. So far there has been reported 5,806 enrollment, which is an increase of 117 students over last year at the same time. PreK and Head Start will return next week and the student population will go over 6,000. The English Language Learners (ELL) population continues to grow; currently there are 525 students enrolled, which is an increase of 59 students over the previous year.

Other items:

Board of Education approved contract for Services for Write Tools (Heather Warakomski) to conduct two days of Roving Grade Level meetings and coaching at Earl Hanson Elementary School and the Rock Island Academy at a cost of $6,200.00.
Board of Education approved the award of contract to West Maintenance, Inc., East Moline, IL, in the amount of $9,800.00 to relocate the playground equipment from Audubon School to Earl Hanson Elementary School. The project is grant funded.
Board of Education approved to award a contract to Legacy Corp., Port Byron, IL, in the amount of $18,240.00 for sidewalk
replacement at Rock Island High School.
Reviewed revisions for Board Policies 1:10 School District Legal Status, 2:10 School District Governance, 2:125 Board Member Expenses, 3:10 Goals and Objectives – Rewritten, 3:70 Succession of Authority.
Board of Education approved to ratify the contract between the Rock Island-Milan School District No. 41 and the Rock Island Educational Support Personnel Association for a one-year period of July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012.
Non-certified rehires and appointments Subash Bhattarai, Emmanuel Hakizimana, Holly Hott, Paw Htoo, Jessica Matherly, Niyonzima Roza, Kwizera Samson, Regine Uwimana, Jennifer Bowden and Tami Viernow as presented.

Tags: 2011-2012 budget, budget, enrollment
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Board Summary January 25

Friday, January 28th, 2011

Thoms Scholarship Finalists and Winner Anna Pienta

Dr. Deb Bracke presented Thoms Family Scholarship finalists Anna Pienta, Jazmin Taylor, Travontae Williams and Sarah Diamond. The scholarship has been in existence for the last 6 years and there have been over 30 projects completed through the program. The students gave presentations about their projects to the board. Anna Pienta was announced as the $5,000 award winner. Read the news story >>

Reports from Board Members
Linda Dothard Linda Dothard attended the Illinois School District Liquid Asset Fund meeting last week. She also attended two Martin Luther King Jr. Celebrations – one at Augustana College and one at Second Baptist Church. Several of our students received awards. The Rock Island High School performing group Sankofa will be presenting a play on Feb. 4th at 5:00 p.m. and on Feb. 5 at 6:00 p.m. Students work very hard to put on a good production. Earl Strupp attended the Head Start monthly meeting. He feels that it is an amazing organization and brings many people together from throughout the community all for the benefit of young children. President Cleaver took a couple of moments to discuss communication protocol. He reminded people to send inquiries of communication to Holly Sparkman; if someone wants to know about school district, contact Dr. Oberhaus, and inquiries regarding the Board of Education should go to Mr. Cleaver as the spokesperson for the board.

Reports from Student Board Members
Zavier Clark commented on the recent media attention regarding the budget recommendations. Someone is always adversely affected. Three students (Sam Ferry, Zavier Clark, Devin Radloff) wrote an editorial to the Dispatch/Argus addressing the confusion. “Civic duty to make sure we get clear information and that is correct.” Mr. Clark also reported that the high school hall sweeps are going well, everyone is getting to class on time. The order of the school has improved. Thanked Mr. Mason for doing his best to improve the climate at the school. The Wizard of OZ auditions will be in two weeks. Student Member Sam Ferry touched upon the status of the id policy. Most students have the occasional mistakes, however it has gotten a bit better. The Interact Club will be presenting a $600 check on Friday to the Centro Maya project (a humanitarian aid organization). The Club has held many fundraisers for the cause. Jazmin Taylor reported that the Lady Rocks have another home game this Thursday against Moline – please come out and support our team!

Superintendent Report
At the last meeting, Edison Jr. High presented their robot from the Lego League competition. The students sent a card of thanks to the board. Earl Hanson Elementary is celebrating 40 years of learning and are having an event on Friday, Feb. 25. The school will have an assembly at 2:30 p.m. and then Open House 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. School alumni and staff are invited to attend.

Scorecard Update
Members of the Cabinet reported on the School District’s Scorecard. Attendance figures superceded the target by 2% and landed at 95.03%. Students with less than 2 referrals is at 86.1%, which is an improvement over last year of 85.6%. Students with Out of School Suspensions is at 94%, an improvement over last year, and 16 students were placed in Special Ed over last years 19. Over the last year the Special Ed process has been improved and district teams assess a student needs and work to meet those needs before placing them in Special Ed. Loss time injuries are at 4 for the year and there are two areas of concern: strains and slips/falls. There has been 58 days of work lost related to those injuries. The district currently has 147 days Cash On Hand.

School Improvement Plans
Denkmann Elementary
Principal John Frieden reported on the Denkmann Elementary School Improvement Plan. For the past three years Reading, Math and behavior have been the main goals. Reading and math fell short of the school target goal of 90% meets/exceeds (82.3% meets/exceeds in Reading and 86.4% meets/exceeds). The school met their goal of having almost 94% with zero office referrals. This year, the school adopted the Math Trailblazers curriculum. The school also reviewed PBIS practices and created a “universal” system for the entire school.

Earl Hanson Elementary
Principal Deb Taber reported on the Earl Hanson Elementary School Improvement Plan. The daily attendance rate reached 96% for the year and 88% of the students received no office referrals. Math and reading scores need improvement, however the school has been successful at closing the gaps between subgroups. The school has also implemented the Math Trailblazers Curriculum. Best Practices include using Balanced Literacy/Balanced math framework and using Character Counts program. Academic intervention is also provided two days a week and 50-70 of the students participate.

2011-12 Budget Reduction Plan
Since the last board meeting on January 11 there have been two changes to the revenue figures. The district will see additional TIF revenue of $250,000 and an extra $1,000,000 due to the passed income tax legislation from the State of Illinois. The proposed changes in expenditures that the board reviewed at the previous meeting has been broken down into Tier I and Tier II categories. View Tier I and Tier II recommendations >>

The board will plan to take action on Feb. 22 to accept the Tier I recommendations. Tier II is not recommended for implementation. View the Superintendent’s presentation >>

Three people commented to the Board of Education regarding the Head Start program. There was a concern that combining all school district early childhood programs would be detrimental to the Head Start program. A representative of the Head Start Policy Council asked that the policy council be included in any future restructuring plans.

Tags: budget, Scorecard, Thoms Scholarship
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Board of Education

Posts Tagged ‘budget’

Board Agenda, Feb. 26

Board Agenda, Feb. 12

Board Summary, July 24

Board Agenda July 24

Board Summary, March 27

Board Agenda, Feb. 27

Board Summary, Jan 10

Board Summary, Nov. 8

Board Summary, August 9

Board Summary January 25

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