Posts Tagged ‘Scorecard’

Board Agenda, October 23

Friday, October 19th, 2012

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2012 5:45 P.M.
The meeting will begin with a reception for the National Merit Commended Scholars from Rock Island High School. The regular meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Download PDF >> 

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 September 25, 2012 (including executive session to remain confidential) as presented.

II. Special Item

National Merit Commended Scholars . . . Recognition
The Board of Education will recognize Rock Island High School’s National Merit Commended Scholars Kelly Bishop and Sydnie McNeal.

III. 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.

IV. Reports

A. Reports from Board Members
Voting Members
Students 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. E. Executive Session Minutes   VIII. C. List of Donations
VII. G. Budget Calendar   VIII. D. Quarterly Investment Report
VII. K. October Fund Raiser Requests   VIII. E. September Financials
VII. L. Student Expulsion   VIII. F. Bills for Payment
VIII. A. Contracts (1-2)   IX. A-D. Personnel
VIII. B. FW Stair Replacement

VII. Operations

A. District Improvement Plan . . . Information
Jeff Zoul will present the District Improvement Plan.
B. Scorecard Update . . . Information
Members of the Cabinet will provide updates to the 2012-13 Scorecard.
C. Strategic Planning . . . Information
Dr. Oberhaus will provide the Strategic Planning update.
D. Grassroots Marketing Campaign . . . Information
Dr. Oberhaus will present information on the Grassroots Marketing Campaign.
E. Review of Executive Session Minutes . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the executive session minutes recommendations as presented in the background information.
F. Draft Audit Review . . . Information
Bob Beckwith will review the draft audit report by McGladrey Pullen.
G. Budget Calendar . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the 2013-2014 Budget Calendar.
H. Sale of Property . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve a purchase contract for the sale of Audubon Elementary School for $475,000. A current draft is enclosed in the background materials.
I. 2013 Rock Island High School Graduation Ceremony . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve a contract with the iWireless Center, Moline, IL, to host graduation on Sunday, May 26, 2013 at a cost of $6,748.00.
J. Fund-Raising Process . . . Information
Bob Beckwith will review the Fund Raising process.
K. October Fund Raiser Requests . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the October Fund Raiser Requests.
L. Student Expulsion . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve Student Expulsion No. 03/07/12.

VIII. Business/Finance

A. Contracts . . . Action

1) Winter Sports Bid
It is recommended that the Board of Education award contracts for Winter Sports Equipment to BSN ($147.25-baskeball and track supplies), Pyramid Products ($832.14-wretling supplies), First To Finish ($935.60-wretling and track supplies), Sports Depot ($1,785.05-basketball supplies and practice uniforms), and Temples ($3,049.91-basketball and wrestling supplies and coaching shirts) for a total of $6,749.95.
2) Leader in Me
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the contracts for FranklinCovey Client Sales, Inc., Salt Lake City, UT, in the amount of $6,521.00 plus travel expenses for the Leader in Me program at Denkmann, Eugene Filed, Frances Willard and the RI Center for Math & Science. All costs will be funded through the John Deere Foundation grant.

B. Frances Willard Exterior Stair & Railing Replacement . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the completion of Life Safety Amendment #18 for Exterior Stair and Railing Replacement at Frances Willard Elementary School.
C. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
D. Quarterly Investment Report . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Investment Report for quarter ended September 30, 2012.
E. Financial Statements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the September Financial Statements as presented.
F. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated September 15, 2012 in the amount of $3,197,338.96 and October 15, 2012 in the amount of $2,333,813.26.

IX. Personnel

A. Certified Resignation . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the certified resignation of Michael Smith as presented.
B. Certified Retirements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve certified retirement of Mindy Tribble as presented.
C. Non-Certified Retirements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified retirements of Roxanne Wild, Cheryl Heaton, Steve South, Mary Lee Peterson, Debbie Brooks and Janet Meeks as presented.
D. Contract for Service . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Contract for Service for Ken Jaeke to perform principal duties at Washington Jr. High School.

X. Executive Session

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

XI. Adjournment

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Board Agenda, August 28

Friday, August 24th, 2012

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, AUGUST 28, 2012 6:00 P.M.

Download agenda (PDF) >> 

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 August 14, 2012 (including executive session to remain confidential) as presented.

II. Special Item

Teachers Participating in IMPACT Training . . . Recognition
Board members will recognize the following teacher for implementing the Math Common Core and STEM initiatives this summer: Tim Carroll (EJHS), Sarah Engstrom, Kathy Evanchyk, Kirk Humphreys (WJHS), and Connie Brackney (RIHS).

III. 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.

IV. Reports

A. Reports from Board 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. August Fund Raisers     VIII. C. List of Donations
VIII. A. Contracts (1-2)     VIII. D. Bills for Payment
VIII. B. District Sweep Account     IX.A-D. Personnel

VII. Operations

A. Scorecard Update . . . Information
Cabinet members will present the Scorecard Update on the first six indicators of Student Achievement (ISAT, PSAE and All Test Scores, Graduation and Promotion Rates and Student Attendance).
B. August Fund Raiser Requests . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the August Fund Raiser Requests.

VIII. Business/Finance

A. Contracts . . . Action

1) Monarch Trauma Counseling Center – Early Childhood
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Contract for Service for Monarch Trauma Counseling Center, Moline, IL, in the amount not to exceed $10,000.00 for professional mental health services in the Early Childhood program.
2) Hot Water Heater Replacement
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the bid by Erickson Plumbing & Heating, Moline, IL, in the amount of $29,900.00 for the Hot Water Heater replacement at Rock Island High School.

B. District Sweep Account . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the request to reduce the minimum balance requirement in the Sweep Account at Blackhawk Bank & Trust from $1,000,000 to $850,000.00.
C. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
D. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated August 15, 2012 in the amount of $2,436,527.74.

IX. Personnel

A. Certified Appointment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Certified Appointment of Brandon Harbecke as presented.
B. Certified Resignation . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the Certified Resignation of Stephanie Fitzgerald as presented.
C. Non-Certified Appointments . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified Appointments of Ranulfo Villalobos and Kelly Wenth as presented.
D. Non-Certified Termination . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Termination of Non-Certified Employee No. 12-01-1113.

X. Executive Session

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

XI. Adjournment

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Board Agenda, June 12

Friday, June 8th, 2012

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, June 12, 2012 5:45 P.M.
The meeting will begin with a reception for Rock Island High School Boys’ and Girls’ Track Teams. The regular meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Download a PDF of the 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 May 22, 2012 (including executive session to remain confidential) as presented.

II. Special Item (1)

Rock Island High School Girls’ and Boys’ Track Teams . . . Recognition
The Board will recognize members of the Rock Island High School Girls’ and Boys’ Track Teams for their outstanding seasons this year.

III. 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.

IV. Reports

A. Reports from Board 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:
VIII. D. Overnight Field Trip Request   IX. M. June Fund Raisers
IX. B. 2012-13 Board Meeting Dates   X. B. Contracts (1-6)
IX. C. Resolution Naming Depositories   X. C. Comp. Equip. Purchase
IX. D. Prevailing Wage Resolution   X. D. iPad 2 Tablet Purchase
IX. E. Inter-fund Loans   X. E. List of Donations
IX. F. IASB Membership   X. F. May Financials
IX. G. LUDA Membership   X. G. Bills for Payment
IX. J. Board Policies   XI. A-E. Personnel
IX. K. Personal Elec. Devices Procedures

VII. Special Item (2)

Resolution on Holiday Waivers . . . Hearing
The Board of Education will conduct a public hearing for the request to waive Pulaski Day and Lincoln’s Birthday so that students and staff may be in attendance on those days.

VIII. Education

A. Acuity Update . . . Information
Mike Nitzel, John Frieden and Chris Beierlein will update the Board on preliminary data analysis from the Acuity assessment implementation.
B. Respect Initiatives . . . Information
Kay Ingham will provide the Board of Education with a report on strategies implemented to improve respect.
C. Iowa Jobs for American Graduates (iJAG) Program . . . Action
Tim Wernentin will present the Board with an overview of the Iowa Jobs for American Graduates program and the benefits to the high school.
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the memorandum of understanding between Illinois Jobs for American Graduates and Rock Island High School as presented.
D. Overnight Field Trip Request . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the overnight field trip request for the Rock Island High School Environmental Action Club students to travel to Costa Rica in June 2013.

IX. Operations

A. Resolution on Holiday Waivers . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education adopt the Resolution on Holiday Waivers so that students may be in attendance on Pulaski Day (first Monday in March) and Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12).
B. 2012-2013 Board Meeting Dates . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the 2012-2013 Board meeting dates as presented.
C. Resolution Naming Depositories . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education reaffirm the designation of official depositories for district funds.
D. Prevailing Wage Resolution . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education adopt the 2012-13 Prevailing Wage Resolution.
E. Authorization for Inter-fund Loans . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize the District Chief Financial Officer to make inter-fund loans in accordance with the State of Illinois laws, rules, and regulations for the 2012-13 fiscal year.
F. Illinois Association of School Boards Membership . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the annual membership in the Illinois Association of School Boards at a cost of $8,998.00.
G. Large Unit District Association (LUDA) Dues . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve membership in the Large Unit District Association (LUDA) at a cost of $3,000.00.
H. Scorecard Update . . . Information
Cabinet members will provide an update of the District Scorecard.
I. First Reading of Board Policies . . . Information
Cabinet members will review the revisions to Board Policies 3:40 Superintendent, 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, and 6:290 Instruction Homework.
J. Second Reading of Board Policy Revisions . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the revisions to Board Policies 7:190 Student Discipline and 7:325 Student Fund Raising Activities.
K. Personal Electronic Device Procedures at R.I.H.S. . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the adjustment to the Student Handbook to reflect the revised use of Personal Electronic Devices Procedures at Rock Island High School as presented by Principal Tim Wernentin.
L. Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests . . . Information
The Administration received the following FOIA requests: 1) Debbie Cipkar/ Illinois Central School Bus, LLC, for complete copy of the Student Transportation Bid submitted by Johannes Bus Service and 2) Ataaullah Nuruddin for school bus transportation services agreement for Illinois Central School Bus Company. The requests were responded to within the allotted time.
M. June Fund Raiser Requests . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the June Fund Raiser Requests.
N. Fund Raiser Summary Report . . . Information
Bob Beckwith will provide the Fund Raiser Summary report.

X. Business/Finance

A. 2012-13 Budget Presentation . . . Information
Bob Beckwith will present the 2012-13 Budget.
B. Contracts . . . Action

1) Bread – District
It is recommended that the Board of Education award a contract to Sara Lee Bakery Group, Rock Island, IL, for an estimated cost of $44,068.17 for Bread Products for the 2012-13 school year.
2) Dairy Products – District
It is recommended that the Board of Education award a contract to Prairie Farms, Dubuque, IA, for an estimated cost of $288,774.58 for Dairy products for the 2012-13 school year.
3) Exterior Doors – Eugene Field
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the base bid and alternate bid from West Mechanical, East Moline, Illinois, in the amount of $65,078.48 to complete the Exterior Door Replacement at Eugene Field
Elementary School.
4) Copier Replacement – RIA, Longfellow, FW, RICMS and Ridgewood
It is recommended that the Board of Education award the bid for Copier Replacement at the Rock Island Academy, Longfellow, Frances Willard, Rock Island Center for Math & Science and Ridgewood to Business Systems, Inc., Davenport, Iowa, in the amount of $19,975.00.
5) Telephone Maintenance – District
It is recommended that the Board of Education enter into a 12 month
contract (July 1, 2012-June 30, 2013) with Hughes Network Technologies, Inc. for the support and maintenance of telephone, voice mail and external paging system at a cost of $6,500.00 annually. This expense is included in the proposed 2012-13 District Budget.
6) Apple Maintenance & Support – District
It is recommended that the Board of Education enter into a 24 month contract (July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2014) with MainstreamUSA for the support and maintenance of our Apple computers. MainstreamUSA will receive $52,940.00 annually in monthly payments of $4,411.00. (This expense is included in the proposed 2012-13 District Technology Budget.)

C. Computer Equipment Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of computer equipment for the PreSchool for All grant at a total cost of $12,714.00.
D. iPad 2 Tablet Purchase . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of 130 iPad 2 Tablets from Apple at a total cost of $49,270.00. ($30.320.00 funded through current district budget and $18,950.00 from Denkmann Title I funds.)
E. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
F. May Financial Statements . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the May Financial Statements.
G. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated May 31, 2012 in the amount of $3,445,271.22.

XI. Personnel

A. Certified Appointments . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Certified Appointments of James Adams, Kassie Hannah, Amanda Hauger, Holly Hott, Wendy Koopman, Elizabeth Mendoza, Shayla Schmidt, Timothy Sanders, Joann Stribling, Timothy Sanders, Ryan Scannell, Kristie Sullivan, Janice Watts and La’Shanta Williams.
B. Certified Rehires . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the rehiring of the following Certified Employees: Angela Benson, Michelle Blew, Kimberly DeCook, Stephanie Dieudonne, Vanessa Engel, Stephanie Fitzgerald, Julie Hathaway, Kimberly Leyendecker, Stacy Lofgren, Mychele Mack and Ann Suess Cobb.
C. Certified Resignation . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education accept the Certified Resignation of Maria Meza-Klein.
D. Non-Certified Appointments . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified Appointments of Cheri Cook, Mary Ann Kuehnel and Elizabeth MacKenna.
E. Non-Certified Rehires . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the rehiring of the following Non-Certified Employees: Cory Dalton, Amber Grant and Alyssa
Kave.
F. Aspiring Administrators . . . Information
Jim Andrews will update the Board of Education on the aspiring administrators program.

XII. Executive Session

It is recommended that the Board of Education move to executive session for the purpose of discussing the Superintendent’s Evaluation and negotiations.

XIII. Adjournment

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Board Summary April 10

Wednesday, April 11th, 2012

The Board of Education started the meeting with the Night of 1000 Dreams Early Bird drawing for the Grand Prize Raffle/Auction Ticket. Longtime committee member Ted Hinze and Director of Development Vic Boblett drew the name of Darrell Reynolds. Mr. Reynolds will be one of six people able to participate in the Grand Prize Raffle/Auction for the trip to Punta Cana. Coach Boblett thanked the board for their support during his tenure and acknowledged Ted and his commitment to the development program for the last 21 years. The event is this Friday, April 13 and the doors open at 6:00 p.m.  See the Night of 1000 Dreams Live Auction List >> 

Rock Island High School Girls Bowling members

The Superintendent and board acknowledged the Rock Island High School Girls Bowling All Academic and All-Metro team: Lindsay Entsminger, Emily Eckert, Ali Hawotte, Jordan Scholl and Catherine Rednour. Coach Braet is excited about next year and is glad that he has some more good high school years with his team members.

The Rock Island High School Boys Wrestling Team members were recognized for their great season and many accomplishments: Blake Anguisich, Michael Cole, Tyler DeHaven, Ignace Hakizimana, Darius Henderson, Kyle Kerres, B.J. McGhee, Trae Nichols, Lucas Rusk, Jean Louis Sawadogo and Chase Wiggins. Coach Joel Stockwell congratulated his wrestlers for being dedicated to the sport, and also thanked the board for their support and acknowledged Athletic Director Bob Swanson for his help and support during his coaching tenure.

Rock Island High School Wrestlers

Board Member Reports
Dave Rockwell congratulated the new inductees for National Honor Society last Wednesday, April 4. There were 32 high school seniors and many up-and-coming sophomores and juniors. Rockwell also congratulated the drama/speech team and they had their presentation last Saturday. The production, Agnes of God was a great performance. The Head Start policy council applied to DHHS for additional COLA funds for this budget year in the amount of $16,391. Head Start’s current enrollment is 321 and they are showing attendance rate of 89.4%. Dr. Kim Armstrong also attended the National Honor Society Induction program. It was great to see the large number of underclassmen involved with the program. Armstrong also attended the “Promoting the Peace” at the Martin Luther King Jr. event in which former student Destiny Wren coordinated some great opportunities for students. The Girls Track Team is still on a winning streak and the girls are breaking records left and right. Linda Dothard attended the Open Meetings Act Mandatory Training. She will be going to Naperville for the IL Student Liquid Asset Fund and going to Boston next week for Nat School board conference. Paula Rummels is heading to Thomas Jefferson this week for a visit and the BHASED meeting on April 11.

Student board member Sam Ferry announced April 16 is Annual Jazz Night in the RIHS cafeteria. It’s a great event. April 24 & 25 juniors will be taking the PSAE and ACT test. In May, The Interact Club members will be attending the RYLA conference in May.

Superintendent Update
Dr. Oberhaus extended congratulations to Debi Goslin (Frances Willard); Val Matson (Washington Jr. High); Lisa Maxwell (Eugene Field) and Anitra Whiting (Thomas Jefferson) for being selected as 2012 Dispatch Argus Master Teachers. RIMSD #41 continues the trend of having the most teachers acknowledged. The dinner an ceremony is May 4 at iWireless Center. Congratulations to the Washington Jr. High Jazz Band. The students are moving on to the state competition in May. This spring is full of sports events – please try and attend a baseball, soccer, tennis, softball or track meet. This weekend the Girls Track Team is at home and next weekend the Boys Track meet is at home. These are the only two track meet events at home for the rest of the season – please try and get out to see our students.

Personnel
The following teachers were granted with tenure, beginning the 2012-2013 year:

Andrea Bonner (Lang.Arts-Academy) Rock Island High School

Jacob Boyd (Special Ed.) Rock Island High School

Jeffery Duster (Soc.St.) Rock Island High School

Bill Gustafson (Art-Graphic) Rock Island High School

Thad Hoover (P.E.) Rock Island High School

Courtney Fulton Soc.St./Math Washington Jr. High School

Kathleen Hartzler (Science) Washington Jr. High

Steve VanDeWalle (Interventionist) Thurgood Marshall

Christine Beierlein (Grades 4-5) Denkmann Elementary

Lisa Bisom (Interventionist) Earl Hanson Elementary

Rita Jett (Multiage 5-6) Intermediate Academy

Sarah Greim (Special Ed.) Longfellow Elementary

Rebekah Stevenson (Grade 5-6) Longfellow Elementary

Ashley Brumbaugh (Kindergarten) Rock Island Academy

Amanda Hollingsworth (Multiage 3-4) Rock Island Academy

James Slankard (Physical Ed.) Rock Island Academy

Michael Carton (Multiage 1-2) R.I. Center for Math & Science

Ashley Hebblen (Looping 1-2) Thomas Jefferson Elementary

Nikki Duke (Psychologist) District

Angela Lynch (Speech Pathologist) District

The board also approved the contract renewal of 26 teachers/staff and did not renew the contracts of  16 teachers in the school district.

Rock Island High School Daily Schedule Proposal
Rock Island High School Principal Tim Wernentin and Math Teacher Michelle Lillis presented a new high school daily schedule to the board. One of the goals of Rock Island High School this year was to re-evaluate the daily schedule. Teachers and administrators know that there are students who struggle with school work, and there are those students who also want to spend more time at school on projects and activities. Therefore, a committee of teachers and parents have been working on a new high school daily schedule solution to address student access to teachers as well as help teachers address their curriculum planning needs.

Overall, the schedule change would provide a consistent format across the board for the entire 5-day week without having to observe the early-out Wednesday. Currently the high school starts at 8:00 a.m. and dismisses at 3:15 p.m. The new day schedule/proposal maintains the seven period schedule but adds an enrichment period at the beginning of the day. Therefore 7:45 – 8:30 a.m. (the enrichment period) would be used as a time when students can come in and meet with teachers to get help, and then the actual instructional day would start at 8:30 a.m. and end at 3:25 p.m.

The focus for students that are failing classes is that they must attend the enrichment period for supports and assistance with their teacher. The purpose is to move them off the failing grade. This process will be a three week cycle, allowing three cycles for each quarter. Teachers will be proactive in communicating to students and parents/guardians on academic concerns and informing them of the required enrichment sessions.

For other students the enrichment would not be mandatory, but they would be encouraged to attend other enrichment activities: character, college, career, community, group work, extra support, or potentially online coursework/dual credits. This schedule also provides a common preparation period for all departments one day per week.

The committee has been gathering feedback about the new schedule. A community input meeting is going to be held on Wednesday, April 11, 6:00 p.m. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center. The board will consider the plan at the April 24th meeting.

View the presentation (PDF) >> 

Other items:

  • The board reviewed Third Quarter Scorecard updates. Attendance is up by 94% and students with 2 or less referrals is at 83.92% (up 2% from last year) and students with no out of school suspensions is at 92% which is consistent with last year’s actual number. A total of 42 students have been placed in Special Education (this year’s target is 50). The school district monthly financials are in the red (-) and there is 139 days Cash on Hand. That could change in the fourth quarter as figures come in from the State of Illinois. Five loss-time injuries have been documented thus far, overshooting this year’s target of 4. Certified staff absences are at 7.48%, which is ahead of this year’s target.
  • An Acuity update was given, indicating that the system has measured growth in student achievement as well as the achievement gap, which saw greater than expected growth. Teachers have been creating custom tests in the system and also taking advantage of professional development opportunities. Students have also been receptive to the system and have benefitted from using the tests. A survey will be done with teachers at the end of the year to see what needs to be planned for 2012-2013.
  • The board approved board policy revisions 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 board awarded contracts to contracts to Johnson Controls, Moline, IL, in the amount of $6,390.00; Baker Group, Moline, IL, in the amount of $8,063.00; and Ragan Mechanical, Davenport, IA, in the amount of $8,305.00 for Air Conditioning Cleaning and Start-up, and a contract to Baker Group, Moline, IL, in the amount of $21,644.00 for Boiler Cleaning and Inspection.

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Board of Education Agenda, April 10

Thursday, April 5th, 2012

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, April 10, 2012 5:45 P.M.

The meeting will begin with an early bird drawing for the Night of a Thousand Dreams Raffle and a reception honoring athletes from the Rock Island High School Girls’ Bowling and Boy’s Wrestling Teams. The regular meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m.

Download a PDF of agenda >> 

I. Roll Call

II. Pledge of Allegiance

III. Special Items

A. Early Bird Drawing for Night of A Thousand Dreams
Vic Boblett will oversee the early bird drawing for the Night of a Thousand Dreams raffle to be held Friday, April 13, 2012.
B. Presentation to Rock Island High School Girls’ Bowling Athletes
The Board will recognize the following athletes from the Rock Island High School Girls’ Bowling Team: Lindsay Entsminger, Emily Eckert, Ali Hawotte and Selicia Applegate.
C. Presentation to Rock Island High School Wrestling Athletes
The Board will recognize the following athletes from the Rock Island High School Wrestling Team: Blake Anguisich, Michael Cole, Tyler DeHaven, Ignace Hakizimana, Darius Henderson, Kyle Kerres, B.J. McGhee, Trae Nichols, Lucas Rusk, Jean Louis Sawadogo and Chase Wiggins.

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:
VIII. A. Board Policy Revisions   X. B. Admin/Teachers/3 Years
VIII. B. Student Expulsion   X. C. Admin/Teachers/2 Years
IX A. Maintenance Grant Project   X. D. Admin/Teachers/1 Year
IX. B. Contracts (1-2)   X. E. Non-Renewal of Contracts (1-5)
IX. C. Bills for Payment   X. F. Certified Unpaid Leave of Absence
X. A. Admin/Teachers Tenure

VIII. Operations

A. Second Reading of Board Policy Revisions . . . Information/Action
Cabinet members will review 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. It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the revisions as presented.
B. Student Expulsion . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve Student Expulsion No. 05/19/19.

IX. Business/Finance

A. Maintenance Grant Project . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the application for the Illinois Maintenance Project Grant for exterior wall restoration at Rock Island High School as presented.
B. Contracts . . . Action

1) Air Conditioning Cleaning and Start-Up
It is recommended that the Board of Education award contracts to Johnson Controls, Moline, IL, in the amount of $6,390.00; Baker Group, Moline, IL, in the amount of $8,063.00; and Ragan Mechanical, Davenport, IA, in the amount of $8,305.00 for Air Conditioning Cleaning and Start-up for District #41.
2) Boiler Cleaning and Inspection
It is recommended that the Board of Education award a contract to Baker Group, Moline, IL, in the amount of $21,644.00 for Boiler Cleaning and Inspection for District #41.
C. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated March 30, 2012 in the amounts of $3,175,159.92.

X. Personnel

A. Administrators/Teachers Tenure . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education award tenure to the list of 20 administrators and teachers who have completed their probationary period as presented.
B. Teachers Completing Three Years of Probationary Service . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education issue a contract to the list of 10 administrators and teachers who have completed three years of probationary service as presented.
C. Administrators/Teachers Completing Two Years of Probationary Service . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education issue a contract to the list of 8 administrators and teachers who have completed two years of probationary service as presented.
D. Administrators/Teachers Completing One Year of Probationary Service . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education issue a contract to the list of 8 administrators and teachers who have completed one year of probationary service as presented.
E. Non-Renewal of Contracts . . . Action

1) Teachers Completing Three Years of Probationary Service
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the non-renewal of 3 teachers who have completed three years of probationary service as presented.
2) Teachers Completing Two Years of Probationary Service
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the non-renewal of 4 teachers who have completed two years of probationary service as presented.
3) Teachers Completing One Year of Probationary Service
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the non-renewal of 3 teachers who have completed one year of probationary service as presented.
4) Teachers Completing a Partial Year of Service
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the non-renewal of the list of 3 teachers who have completed a partial year of probationary service as presented.
5) Teachers Completing Part-Time Contracts
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the non-renewal of the list of 3 teachers who have completed a part-time contract as presented.
F. Certified Unpaid Leave of Absence . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Certified Unpaid Leave of Absence for Jennifer Grennan as presented.

XI. Committee of the Whole

A. Scorecard Update . . . Information
Cabinet members will present the 3rd quarter updates to the District Scorecard.
B. Acuity Update . . . Information
Bill Osborne will give an update on the Acuity Assessment System.
C. Striving to Meet the Needs of 21st Century Learners . . . Information
Tim Wernentin and high school staff will provide the Striving to Meet the Needs of 21st Century Learners presentation.

XII. Adjournment

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Board Summary, Nov. 22

Wednesday, November 23rd, 2011
Christopher Cartee

Christopher Cartee

The board unanimously approved the hiring of Christopher Cartee as the new Athletic Director. Mr. Cartee will take over on July 1, 2012 and is replacing retiring Bob Swanson who has served as the Athletic Director for the last 14 years.

Board Member Reports
Several board members attended the Triple III joint annual conference of the Illinois Association of School Boards, Illinois Association of School Administrators and Illinois Association of School Business Officials in Chicago last weekend. Board members participated in session topics that included bullying, technology, attendance improvement, student performance data and legislative issues. Linda Dothard attended the National Alliance of Black School Educators conference in New Orleans last week and shared information on sessions about math strategies and perception/image issues of African American students and overcoming myths and stereotypes.

Superintendent Report
There are three public forums scheduled, Coffee and Conversations, that will be held in December. The forums are designed to be informal and Dr. Oberhaus hopes that a good dialogue with the community can continue as there are some difficult decisions that the school district has to make in the coming months.  An Op/Ed will be in the Argus next week which will outline some of the issues that the school district will face next year.

School District Improvement Plan
Asst. Superintendent Bill Osborne reviewed the District Improvement Plan with board members and highlighted the new tool, Rising Star, that the district is using to put the plan into place. There are action plans that relate to Achievement Targets, Accountability, Assessment, Workforce Diversity, Common Core standards and Professional Development. The school district-wide focus on respect will be included in future school district improvement planning and all schools will be using the Rising Star method in their planning process. Currently six schools are using Rising Star.

Enrollment Projections
Chief Financial Officer Bob Beckwith reviewed 5-year enrollment projections based on historical patterns of the district, live birth stats from RI County and enrollment figures from previous years. Currently the school district enrollment is 6,233. The largest increase in population over the last couple of years has been in ELL students. Overall the projections will remain flat, with fluctuations between the years, however the main emphasis is that enrollment is not projected to go down through 2016-2017.

Other Items:

  • Administration discussed and set Scorecard targets for 2011-2012 through 2013-2014.
  • The Board of Education approved the Non-Certified Appointments of Sarah Freeman, Krista Grizzle and Alina Schafman as presented.
  • The Board approved fundraisers for RICMS (sale of light bulbs) and Earl Hanson (cookie sale).
  • The Board approved computer purchase of 10 Apple laptops for Thomas Jefferson Elementary in the amount of $10,280.00. Funds from the TJ Booster Club will be used for the purchase.
  • The Board approved contracts for Supplemental Education Services with Achieve High Points, ATS Project Success, Brain Hurricane and Grade Cracker. The companies will provide services to 78 school district students in accordance with NCLB. Title I funds will be used for the services.
  • The Board approved a contract with the Consortium for Education Change in the amount of $32,130.00 for consulting services for 2 all-day Framework Educator Sessions and 8 Teacher Evaluation Team Plan Development Sessions.

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Board Agenda, Nov. 22

Friday, November 18th, 2011

ROCK ISLAND-MILAN SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 41
Board of Education Regular meeting
Rock Island High School Library
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2011 6:00 P.M.

Download a PDF of the agenda (large file) >>

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 executive session minutes of September 27, 2011 (to be kept on file as confidential), special meeting/retreat minutes of October 18, 2011 (including executive session minutes to be open to the public) and regular meeting minutes of October 25 and November 8, 2011 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
Student 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. C. November Fund Raiser Requests   VII. D. Bills for Payment
VII. A. Contracts (1-3)        VIII B. Personnel
VII. C. List of Donations

VI. Operations

A. District Improvement Plan . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the District Improvement Plan.
B. Scorecard Targets . . . Information
The administration will present the Board with their recommendations for three year targets for each metric on the District report card.
C. November Fund Raiser Requests . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the November Fund Raiser Requests.

VII. Business/Finance

A. Contracts . . . Action

1) Consortium for Educational Change
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Contract for the Consortium for Educational Change, 530 22nd Street, Lombard, IL, in the amount of $32,130.00 for consulting services for 2 all-day Framework Educator Sessions and 8 Teacher Evaluation Team Plan Development Sessions.
2) Supplemental Educational Services Contracts

a. It is recommended that the Board of Education approve a contract with Achieve High Points for online support services to 7 district
students, not to exceed $1,342.43 per student. Title I funds will be used as required by No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
b. It is recommended that the Board of Education approve a contract with ATS Project Success for online support services to 33 district
students, not to exceed $1,342.43 per student. Title I funds will be used as required by No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
c. It is recommended that the Board of Education approve a contract with Brain Hurricane for online support services to 26 district students, not to exceed $1,342.43 per student. Title I funds will be used as required by No Child Left Behind (NCLB).
d. It is recommended that the Board of Education approve a contract with Grade Cracker for online support services to 12 district students, not to exceed $1,342.43 per student. Title I funds will be used as required by No Child Left Behind (NCLB).

3) Computer purchase Thomas Jefferson
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase often MacBook Laptop Computers with warranty from Apple Computer at a cost of $10,280.00 for Thomas Jefferson Elementary. Thomas Jefferson Booster Club funds will be used for the purchase.

B. Enrollment projections…Information
Bob Beckwith will provide the Board a report on the five year student enrollment projections.
C. List of Donations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education acknowledge the List of Donations.
D. Bills for Payment . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education authorize Bills for Payment dated November 15, 2011 in the amount of $2,800,706.48.

VIII. Personnel

A. Certified Recommendations . . . Action
A recommendation will be presented at the meeting for the hiring of the Rock Island High School Athletic Director.
B. Non-Certified Recommendations . . . Action
It is recommended that the Board of Education approve the Non-Certified Appointments of Sarah Freeman, Krista Grizzle and Alina Schafman as presented.

IX. Executive Session

It is recommended that the Board adjourn to Executive Session to discuss litigation and negotiations.

X. Adjournment

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Board Summary, Oct. 25

Thursday, October 27th, 2011

The Board of Education received a favorable report from McGladrey Accounting firm regarding the 2010-2011 audit. The school district received high marks in all areas, there were no findings or internal control concerns. Ms. Dothard complimented Bob Beckwith and the business office for the great audit report outcome.

Board Member Reports
Dave Rockwell reminded members about the Annual Booster Club raffle and dance on Nov. 5. Tickets are still available. More information and form >> Also, the Booster Club is looking to expand membership and want to recruit new members and get involved in extra curricular activities. Mr. Veasey observed the new administrators mentoring program over the Intersession break. He extended kudos to Jim and Ken for doing a great job with the program. Ms. Dothard attended the Illinois Liquid Asset Fund meeting that is held each quarter.

Student Board Member Samuel Ferry reported that the RIHS Marching Band performed at a competition in Metamora and placed. The band also performed at the University of IL competition and took 4th place overall and placed first in percussion and color guard. This weekend they are going to Illinois State University to compete. Also, Rock Island High School had many students successfully make it through IMEA auditions and make it into the Festival. Read names >>

Superintendent Report
Last Tuesday the board conducted self-evaluation, and as of completion, the board is now Level 2 trained in the TAG program from the Illinois Association of School Boards. The Athletic Director posting has reached it’s deadline of Oct. 24 and a team has been put together to review applications for the position and conduct interviews. The plan is to bring a recommendation to the board in December. Coffee and Conversations dates have been set up again this year: Dec. 3 at Milan Happy Joe’s, 9:00 a.m.; Dec. 8 at the Martin Luther King Center, 6:30 p.m.; and Dec. 10 at Rock Island HyVee, 9:00 a.m. It is an opportunity for an informal forum to hear from parents and citizens.

ISAT/PSAE Test Results
Assistant Superintendent Bill Osborne indicated that Rock Island-Milan School District students performance on the ISAT remained steady, 70%, however there is a concern that the school district isn’t seeing greater growth. The PSAE score dropped dramatically, from 34.20% to 28%. The combination of all tests came to 63%, missing this year’s target of 70% meets and exceeds.

School district improvement efforts include: research and development of best practices, improved articulation between schools and district improvement plans, professional development in areas of need, increasing involvement of community partnerships and using current assessment data from the new Acuity system to monitor student learning. There are a number of support efforts in place, and will work to address the needs of students.

Principal Mike Nitzel feels that the use of the new Acuity system will drive instruction in the classroom and be more beneficial than relying on ISAT results. The ISAT is a lagging indicator and determines outcome from a test at one point in time. The results are received months later, which reduces the chance to act on underperforming results. Acuity data will be more reliable and will identify what students are doing well and what students are struggling to learn. Rock Island Center for Math & Science teacher Chad Wickard concurred that Acuity is a beneficial tool and provides real time results within 24 hours helps teachers identify issues quickly. From there, teacher can assign other task and study components in Acuity to help the student through the issue.

The board will review the ISAT/PSAE data in more detail at the Nov. 8 meeting.

Scorecard
Final scorecard data from the 2010-2011 year revealed an increase in student attendance (94%) and promotion rate (99%). Good marks in students with less than two referrals (0) and no out of school suspensions were noted. The graduate rate missed the target of 89% and came in at 80%. All categories in Fiscal Health are in the green. The state profile score went up to 3.7 and the audit reported zero findings. In Quality Personnel, the diversity indicators are all in green, signaling that staff (23%) and certified staff (12%) went beyond the targets to recruit and maintain a diverse workforce. Certified staff absences increased over the last year. Asst. Superintendent Andrews believed that long term illnesses were the reason for the increase.

Director of Development
Director of Development has been a position for the last 25 years, and was created with the intention of hiring a football coach that would not be subject to a reduction in force. Dr. Oberhaus recommended to continue the existing Director of Development position for 2012-2013 and have the person teach one section for the first year. The person will then transition to teaching two sections the second year, and then three sections the third year. Dave Rockwell agreed that the approach was reasonable and would be good for the program to attract a quality candidate.

As soon as Athletic Director is hired, the high school will immediately address the Head Football Coach position.

Other items:

  • The board approved the waiver application to the State of Illinois to allow the use of simulators in the Driver’s Education training at the high school. The waiver is for one year.
  • The board unanimously approved the Superintendent’s contract, extending it through 2015-2016.
  • Approved the Contract for Services for Write Tools, Centennial, CO, in the amount of $12,400.00 to conduct four days of Persuasive Writing to Grades K-6 teachers at Earl Hanson and the Rock Island Academy.
  • Approved a contract of services with Mainstream Computer Services (Brian Neuerburg), Moline, IL, in the amount of $7,000.00 for computer repair and maintenance services to the preschool program.
  • Approved a contract with Accurate Health Care of Moline, IL for specific student health care needs outside the scope of the school nurse staff.
  • Approved fundraising requests for Denkmann, Longfellow, Edison and Washington.
  • Recognized donations from:
    Miner Consulting Engineers P.C., Engineering Services for Rock Island High School Swimming Pool, $2,200 value;
    Mr. & Mrs. John Fleming $50 for rewards program at Washington Jr. High School
    Mr. & Mrs. Jeff McClendon $25 for rewards program at Washington Jr. High School
    Mary Brodd $10 for rewards program at Washington Jr. High School
    Mighty Fortress Community Church, $400 for rewards program at Washington Jr. High School
    Lisa Wymer, $50 for rewards program at Washington Jr. High School
    Joseph & Mary Brune, $40 for the Science Department at Washington Jr. High School
    Mike & Mary Lee Peterson, $250 for Washington Jr. High School

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Board Summary January 25

Friday, January 28th, 2011
thoms scholarship students

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.

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Board of Education Summary April 14

Friday, April 17th, 2009

The Rock Island-Milan Board of Education began their regular board meeting by recognizing the Rock Island High School Drama Team for their success at winning the State title at the IHSA Championship. The team presented the state trophy to RIHS Speech Team Championsthe Board of Education. They won with their 13-member performance of “The Elephant Man.”  The win marked the first time in 53 years that a school outside of the Chicago area has won the title. Coach Rino Della Vedova directed the production. The team include: Benjamin Simkins, 
Dylan Luloff, Michelle Bower,
 Julia Anders,
 Becca Beswick,
 Brittany Carton,
 Erin Gehn,
 Greer Burke-Anderson,
 Rachel Petersen,
 Ali Davis, 
Katie Frain,
 Tara Vandygriff and Jenna Hull.

Vic Boblett, Director of Development, drew the early bird Grand Prize ticket for the Night of 1000 Dreams. The lucky winner is Rocky parent Ken Simkins. He will have an opportunity to be a part of the night’s final Grand Prize episode and win a Seven Day Carnival Cruise through the Caribbean. The Night of 1000 Dreams is tonight at the Local 25 Plumbers and Pipefitters Hall. Reservations for the event can be made by calling Please call Joann Fairman at RIHS 793-5950 ext. 2006 before noon. See the silent and live auction list >>

Superintendent’s Report
Superintendent Loy congratulated the 47 Rock Island High School Seniors who were inducted into the National Honor Society last Wednesday evening. The senior students produce the entire ceremony, which included honoring the sophomores and juniors. Over the 2008-2009 school year, the Rock Island High School National Honor Society Senior Members contributed 1,166 hours of volunteering at community organizations and in the schools. Read the Web story >>

English Language Learners Program
Assistant Superintendent Kay Ingham presented an update on the English Language Learners (ELL) program. The purpose of the English Language Learners (ELL) Program is to provide students who speak another language with the English skills necessary to succeed in all areas of school and out in the real world. The goal of the ELL program is to enable the students to take full advantage of their education by achieving academic language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. View a Podcast of the video at the ELL presentation >>

The district has seen the ELL program grow in leaps and bounds. In 2005, there were 2 ELL teachers and 62 students. For the 2008-09 year, there are 8 ELL teachers and 273 students in the Rock Island-Milan School District. In the last couple of years the district has seen an increase in refugee families through the World Relief program from all corners of the globe such as Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Thailand, Sudan and Ukraine.

Managing close to 23 different languages and dialects, the school district approaches the ELL program with a combination of common sense and creativity. A non-English speaker will need between one to three years to learn enough English to communicate with others about everyday things. Above and beyond that, a student will need five to ten years to develop the language he or she needs to be successful in academic subjects.

Ms. Ingham also recognized teachers at the board meeting: Debi Goslin, Robert Ochoa, Susan Molina-Padro and Becky Worley for their work and dedication. All of the ELL teachers not only work closely with other teachers in the buildings to ensure the students’ success, but also work with families to see that they are getting the services and community resources they need.

Scorecard Update
The board heard updates from Cabinet on 8 of the 23 indicators. Student Attendance is at 93.48%. Although the score still remains a cautionary yellow, the high school has seen improvements in its attendance rate due to new implementation of school policies. Referrals and suspensions remain in the yellow category and procedures are constantly being assessed for effectiveness. Special Education placements are at 40 for the year, and regular ed, special ed, parents and staff are all working to see that the students needs are being met. In Fiscal Health, Days Cash on Hand dropped to 160, the result of state payments falling behind by $2.7 million. Certified Staff Absences through the first three quarters is at an average of 6.5 days (green), meaning we will reach our goal if this pace continues fourth quarter. Scorecard on the RISD Web site >>

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