1 00:00:05,330 --> 00:00:11,710 Good evening, I'm Danny Skate President of the Bismarck School Board. It's 515 on Monday, December 9th. I call this meeting to order. 2 00:00:12,810 --> 00:00:20,050 Welcome and thank you for joining us both here and also online. You can find our agenda and follow along on the School Board tab at BismarckSchools.org. 3 00:00:20,330 --> 00:00:29,470 Mr. Sherwood, you call the roll, please. Mr. Eastgate? Here. Mr. Hager? Here. Mr. Lee? Here. Mr. Petersen? Here. Mr. President. 4 00:00:29,470 --> 00:00:31,290 members of President Accountant for Dr. Johnson, 5 00:00:31,330 --> 00:00:32,710 which you please lead us in the pledge of allegiance. 6 00:00:56,380 --> 00:00:58,720 At a one-see the BPS mission vision and values, 7 00:00:58,900 --> 00:01:01,420 the BPS mission is to empower every learner to thrive. 8 00:01:02,140 --> 00:01:04,540 The BPS vision states, together our strong relationships 9 00:01:04,540 --> 00:01:07,200 build inclusive, collaborative, and innovative environments 10 00:01:07,200 --> 00:01:09,380 that create agency and inspire a passion 11 00:01:09,380 --> 00:01:11,040 for learning, excellence, and discovery. 12 00:01:12,160 --> 00:01:14,660 The BPS values are inclusion, excellence, innovation, 13 00:01:14,860 --> 00:01:15,480 and leadership. 14 00:01:16,280 --> 00:01:17,520 You can also find a link in the agenda 15 00:01:17,520 --> 00:01:19,320 to the BPS strategic plan. 16 00:01:19,660 --> 00:01:21,000 Item two is to adopt the agenda 17 00:01:21,000 --> 00:01:23,300 one of the wishes of the board. Mr. Hager. 18 00:01:23,660 --> 00:01:24,780 I moved it up the agenda. 19 00:01:26,120 --> 00:01:27,320 We have a motion in a second. 20 00:01:28,080 --> 00:01:28,460 Mr. Chair. 21 00:01:29,280 --> 00:01:29,540 Hager? 22 00:01:30,220 --> 00:01:30,680 Yes. Lee? 23 00:01:30,940 --> 00:01:31,140 Yes. 24 00:01:31,280 --> 00:01:31,560 Peterson? 25 00:01:31,820 --> 00:01:32,120 Yes. 26 00:01:32,380 --> 00:01:32,700 Brassky? 27 00:01:33,040 --> 00:01:33,160 Yes. 28 00:01:33,300 --> 00:01:33,820 He's Kate? 29 00:01:34,060 --> 00:01:34,320 Yes. 30 00:01:34,800 --> 00:01:35,480 Motion passes. 31 00:01:37,080 --> 00:01:39,620 Item 3 tonight is focused on success. 32 00:01:40,580 --> 00:01:43,240 We'll be looking at the fiscal year 24 financial audit 33 00:01:43,240 --> 00:01:45,900 and giving us the report and being with us tonight 34 00:01:45,900 --> 00:01:48,380 is Mindy Piaz, partner from Brady Mart's. 35 00:01:48,380 --> 00:01:48,780 Good evening. 36 00:01:49,260 --> 00:01:50,360 Good evening, board members. 37 00:01:50,920 --> 00:01:56,260 As Dan mentioned, I'm in DPS, partner at Brady Martz, and we'll be going over the audit 38 00:01:56,260 --> 00:01:59,440 results for Bismarck Public Schools for 2024. 39 00:02:01,360 --> 00:02:03,840 We'll go over the opinions that we issue. 40 00:02:03,860 --> 00:02:08,120 I have some brief financial highlights, and then I'll end with some items that I'm required 41 00:02:08,120 --> 00:02:10,220 to communicate upon completion of the audit. 42 00:02:12,080 --> 00:02:18,180 So first off, regarding our audit opinion, the overall objective of the audit is to express 43 00:02:18,180 --> 00:02:23,360 an opinion on the financials whether they are materially correct in accordance with GAP or generally 44 00:02:23,360 --> 00:02:29,080 accepted accounting principles. Our audit is designed to obtain reasonable but not absolute assurance 45 00:02:29,080 --> 00:02:34,540 about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and then lastly we do 46 00:02:34,540 --> 00:02:39,340 have some guidelines that we are required to follow as part of performing our audit and those are listed 47 00:02:39,340 --> 00:02:47,560 there around the screen. So overall on the financial statements we are expressing an unmodified audit 48 00:02:47,560 --> 00:02:52,520 opinion, which is a highest level of assurance that we can provide over the financials, 49 00:02:52,600 --> 00:02:56,860 meaning they are materially in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or the 50 00:02:56,860 --> 00:03:02,280 full accrual basis of accounting. In addition, we also perform our audit in accordance with government 51 00:03:02,280 --> 00:03:08,360 auditing standards and we're required to review internal controls over financial reporting 52 00:03:08,360 --> 00:03:16,180 and test compliance. Again, we are issuing an unmodified opinion. There were no findings on this 53 00:03:16,180 --> 00:03:18,020 reports, so again, it's a clean opinion. 54 00:03:19,640 --> 00:03:22,060 And then the last report we issue for our audit 55 00:03:22,060 --> 00:03:24,340 is performing what's called a single audit. 56 00:03:24,840 --> 00:03:27,660 This is an audit of compliance with the federal grants. 57 00:03:28,340 --> 00:03:31,280 And so the fourth grants that we tested this year 58 00:03:31,280 --> 00:03:33,240 were the Child Nutrition cluster, 59 00:03:33,480 --> 00:03:35,780 improving teacher, quality state grants, 60 00:03:35,980 --> 00:03:39,540 state and local cybersecurity grant program, entitled one. 61 00:03:39,900 --> 00:03:43,480 We issued an unmodified opinion, meaning that, based on our testing, 62 00:03:43,620 --> 00:03:45,920 we found that the district was in compliance 63 00:03:45,920 --> 00:03:48,020 with the Federal Compliance Requirements. 64 00:03:48,460 --> 00:03:53,780 However, we did have one finding that we did note, and that was over the Child Nutrition 65 00:03:53,780 --> 00:03:54,220 cluster. 66 00:03:55,380 --> 00:04:01,060 The finding related to, as part of the Federal grant, you're required to submit monthly 67 00:04:01,840 --> 00:04:07,720 counts of lunches and meals to the state and the district change software this past year, 68 00:04:08,000 --> 00:04:12,060 and they were not aware that they had to lock down the reports within their software, 69 00:04:12,060 --> 00:04:17,740 so as students were coming and going, those changes were being made in the systems so they couldn't 70 00:04:17,740 --> 00:04:23,200 recreate the accounts reported on the actual reports that we were required to test. 71 00:04:23,820 --> 00:04:27,720 The district did agree with the finding and as soon as we brought to their attention, 72 00:04:28,540 --> 00:04:33,980 took immediate action to get that corrected. If you want to see the full details of that, 73 00:04:34,040 --> 00:04:39,760 I would just note that it's on page 75 of the full audited financials, which I believe are linked 74 00:04:39,760 --> 00:04:47,760 in the side show. Moving on to some financial highlights, overall for the year as of June 30, 75 00:04:48,800 --> 00:04:55,800 2024 compared to 2023, cash and investments totaled about 18.5 million. I would just know that 76 00:04:55,800 --> 00:05:03,100 this is about 3.5 million less than last year and you can see the breakout by each each fund 77 00:05:03,100 --> 00:05:09,600 is noted on the screen. Looking at revenues and expenses by fund, I'll just focus on the 78 00:05:09,600 --> 00:05:18,320 general fund, overall expenses were around 206.8 million and that was offset by 207 million 79 00:05:18,320 --> 00:05:24,800 of revenue, so there was a slight increase of about 547,000 to the general fund balances here. 80 00:05:25,680 --> 00:05:33,220 And then just noting the non-major funds, those include the student activities, the CRACTC, 81 00:05:33,540 --> 00:05:39,340 food service, Korea, and the debt service funds, and there's full detailed information 82 00:05:39,340 --> 00:05:41,480 of each of those funds in the financial statements. 83 00:05:43,830 --> 00:05:48,290 Looking at total expenditures for the general funds, so overall for the year total expenditures 84 00:05:48,290 --> 00:05:51,030 were 206.8 million. 85 00:05:51,030 --> 00:05:59,110 This represents about 12.8% of the general fund fund balance or that residual equity that's in the general fund. 86 00:05:59,430 --> 00:06:04,470 The school district does have a policy of maintaining at least a minimum of 10%. 87 00:06:04,470 --> 00:06:12,730 Of expenditures and recurring transfers as their policy for guidelines for how much to keep in that fund balance and not spending it too low. 88 00:06:12,730 --> 00:06:18,330 And so there's just slightly above that 10 percent at 12.8 percent this year. 89 00:06:18,990 --> 00:06:24,470 So I know that's something that they do monitor and just noting that you're in compliance with your policy. 90 00:06:24,990 --> 00:06:34,150 Overall, regular instruction was the highest expense at 109 million representing about 53 percent of the total expenditures. 91 00:06:34,350 --> 00:06:39,170 Followed by special education at 40.5 million or 20 percent. 92 00:06:39,170 --> 00:06:44,990 and then operations and maintenance at 16 million or 8% of total expenditures. 93 00:06:46,510 --> 00:06:53,630 Moving on to the fund balance by each fund so you can see the general fund ended at just 94 00:06:53,630 --> 00:06:58,450 slightly above 16 million at year and as of June 30th. 95 00:06:58,450 --> 00:07:08,470 The building fund actually has a deficit of 10.8 million as of June 30th and then the 96 00:07:09,130 --> 00:07:19,710 Those are different colors because that money is either restricted by third party or it's been assigned for a specific use by what the fund was created for by management. 97 00:07:23,320 --> 00:07:29,800 Last item to look at on the highlights is just future debt payments and obligations of the district so as of June. 98 00:07:30,000 --> 00:07:43,200 30, if you can see that the total outstanding debt for the district general obligation bonds were around 98 million, and then notes payable of a 26.9 million, followed by special assessments of 1.9 million. 99 00:07:43,820 --> 00:07:49,900 And then the table on the right just shows the total principle and interest payments going out towards the future. 100 00:07:50,660 --> 00:07:58,180 They don't actually increase at the towards the right. That's just multiple years being combined as that's how it's presented in the notes to the financial statements. 101 00:07:59,880 --> 00:08:13,320 Then looking at the budget versus actual for the general fund, so overall revenues came in under budget at 5.2 million, and then total expenditures were also under budget by 7 million. 102 00:08:13,900 --> 00:08:21,340 So with that reduced revenue, the district offset and reduce their expenses in order to maintain that balance budget. 103 00:08:23,770 --> 00:08:31,710 And then lastly, as part of our professional standards we are required to go over some items with the board upon completion of the audit, 104 00:08:32,650 --> 00:08:35,810 just noting that there are estimates made to the financial statements. 105 00:08:36,450 --> 00:08:44,030 And so we do look at those estimates as that's really where an area is subject to management manipulation and potential for fraud. 106 00:08:44,270 --> 00:08:50,370 I would just note there were no sensitive estimates that really take a lot of objectivity when we're looking at it, 107 00:08:50,370 --> 00:08:53,090 But if there were, we would be looking at those as part of the audit. 108 00:08:53,850 --> 00:08:56,530 We also were not aware of any kind of unusual transactions. 109 00:08:57,790 --> 00:09:01,630 Nor did we have any difficulties or disagreements conducting the audit. 110 00:09:02,230 --> 00:09:04,690 We also had no corrected misstatements. 111 00:09:04,890 --> 00:09:07,990 So no material journal entries were proposed as part of our testing. 112 00:09:09,230 --> 00:09:13,170 As part of our audit, we did request a representation letter for management. 113 00:09:13,870 --> 00:09:19,530 Basically, them stating that they've given us full access to all the information and that everything's properly recorded. 114 00:09:19,530 --> 00:09:28,230 And then we're also not aware that they've consulted with another accountant or auditor regarding our audit opinion or an accounting policy. 115 00:09:30,630 --> 00:09:35,890 And then the last item to go over, just noting that we did issue a separate letter, what's called a management letter. 116 00:09:36,230 --> 00:09:40,270 So this is an item that doesn't rise to the level of being a finding. 117 00:09:40,470 --> 00:09:42,250 However, it's an area for improvement. 118 00:09:42,250 --> 00:09:49,530 The item related to during our expenditure testing, we noted that the overtime for an employee 119 00:09:49,530 --> 00:09:53,190 was not charged the same way that that employee's time was charged. 120 00:09:53,790 --> 00:09:58,340 That employee had works on a federal grant, and so her time was charged to a federal grant 121 00:09:59,230 --> 00:10:06,210 in talking with the accounting staff, it's not often that there's overtime by the employees, 122 00:10:06,530 --> 00:10:11,690 and so it's a manual procedure that they have to do on their end to reallocate that overtime time. 123 00:10:11,690 --> 00:10:27,850 And so overall the grant was under charged, so they could have charged additional time to the grant, but the grant was under charged, but just letting everybody know that there was an error and that they're looking at corrections to mitigate that. 124 00:10:28,530 --> 00:10:34,070 And then just putting my contact information if you have questions or anybody watching has questions, it's on the screen. 125 00:10:34,070 --> 00:10:47,950 With that, I'd just like to thank Mr. Cher and the Finance Department, I know the accounting department does a lot of work preparing for the audit and getting ready during the audit with all our requests and we certainly appreciate that. 126 00:10:48,790 --> 00:10:49,570 Any questions? 127 00:10:50,470 --> 00:10:54,930 Thanks very much, Ms. Piaz, both for the whole audit report and coming tonight to the meeting. 128 00:10:55,390 --> 00:10:57,310 Board members, questions, board members, really? 129 00:10:57,950 --> 00:10:59,050 Thank you, President Easkate. 130 00:10:59,230 --> 00:11:00,550 Mr. Piaz, thank you. 131 00:11:00,630 --> 00:11:01,710 I really like the format. 132 00:11:01,870 --> 00:11:04,710 Is that a little different than we've seen in years past? 133 00:11:04,750 --> 00:11:07,290 I know the information is probably the same, but. 134 00:11:07,430 --> 00:11:12,270 Mr. Lee, I think it's an evolution of multiple presentations that I give throughout the 135 00:11:12,270 --> 00:11:12,790 year. 136 00:11:13,210 --> 00:11:17,370 I believe the financial information that I've went over is similar to what we've presented 137 00:11:17,370 --> 00:11:19,110 in maybe in prior years, but. 138 00:11:19,110 --> 00:11:26,190 Yeah. Thank you very much. No, but I look great. And thank you for the work. Yeah. Mr. Hager. Thanks, President Eastgate. 139 00:11:26,670 --> 00:11:34,370 Ms. P. That's I had a question kind of going through through the audit. You know, last year we had a couple of significant deficiencies that were addressed right away. 140 00:11:34,370 --> 00:11:44,570 I noticed that you you tested them again. Do you do that again? Next year is there a certain amount of time that you you test those four before you stop kind of looking for those things. 141 00:11:44,570 --> 00:11:47,510 Yeah, Mr. Hager and members of the school board. 142 00:11:47,690 --> 00:11:52,510 So we are required to look at prior your findings and make sure that there's been correct 143 00:11:52,510 --> 00:11:53,930 of action taken. 144 00:11:54,490 --> 00:11:59,170 If there would not have been correct of action taken, then we would still repeat those until 145 00:11:59,170 --> 00:12:00,730 that correct of action was taken. 146 00:12:01,390 --> 00:12:05,330 So I'm thank you for bringing that up, but yeah, the findings last year were corrected and 147 00:12:05,330 --> 00:12:05,730 remedied. 148 00:12:06,190 --> 00:12:08,330 And we did look at that as part of our audit procedures. 149 00:12:12,220 --> 00:12:14,240 Board members, any further questions at all? 150 00:12:16,210 --> 00:12:18,570 Seeing none, Ms. Piaz, thanks again so much for your report. 151 00:12:18,570 --> 00:12:21,410 And we put it underneath the focus on success tonight. 152 00:12:21,530 --> 00:12:23,730 And when you see that the highest level of assurance, 153 00:12:23,970 --> 00:12:26,590 the CPA firm can provide was given at all levels. 154 00:12:27,050 --> 00:12:28,430 We certainly consider that a success. 155 00:12:28,770 --> 00:12:29,350 So thank you. 156 00:12:29,370 --> 00:12:30,310 Thank you. 157 00:12:35,540 --> 00:12:37,860 Moving on the agenda to item four, it's public comment. 158 00:12:38,660 --> 00:12:40,140 The board recognized the central role parents 159 00:12:40,140 --> 00:12:42,460 playing in the education of their children and support 160 00:12:42,460 --> 00:12:44,840 active parent involvement in the educational process. 161 00:12:45,080 --> 00:12:46,380 The board's practice of public comment 162 00:12:46,380 --> 00:12:49,480 reflects in the lines with policy BCBA in the spirit of its intent. 163 00:12:49,780 --> 00:12:52,020 For classroom issues, it's best to follow the chain of command. 164 00:12:52,020 --> 00:12:56,420 First to the teacher, then the principal, then the assistant superintendent, and ultimately to the superintendent. 165 00:12:57,200 --> 00:12:59,500 For district wide issues, please reach out to Dr. Fauston. 166 00:13:00,540 --> 00:13:04,080 If you do speak tonight, we simply ask that you be responsible to be helpful and be respectful. 167 00:13:04,780 --> 00:13:08,340 Our BPS students deserve to have adults, model the expectations that we have for them. 168 00:13:08,540 --> 00:13:09,940 Groups are just like one spokesperson. 169 00:13:10,880 --> 00:13:12,400 Individuals will be limited to no more than four minutes. 170 00:13:12,440 --> 00:13:15,160 So we'll be notified of 30 seconds remaining to conclude the remarks. 171 00:13:15,860 --> 00:13:19,020 The board will not debate issues as presented. We'll take such matters under advisement. 172 00:13:19,020 --> 00:13:21,760 With that, please stand in the approach to podium if you'd like to speak tonight. 173 00:13:26,550 --> 00:13:27,670 Public comment will now be closed. 174 00:13:28,870 --> 00:13:30,950 Item five, monitor district operations. 175 00:13:33,050 --> 00:13:38,070 And I believe we're going to be going to item five eight, OE six financial administration. 176 00:13:39,570 --> 00:13:40,890 Mr. Darench here. 177 00:13:44,570 --> 00:13:45,830 Thank you, President Eastgate. 178 00:13:45,850 --> 00:13:46,650 Members, the board. 179 00:13:47,470 --> 00:13:49,890 Just to maybe make a few comments on the audit. 180 00:13:50,970 --> 00:13:54,110 I really do feel like Bismarck Public Schools is blessed 181 00:13:54,110 --> 00:14:00,090 probably the best accounting team in the state for school districts, their business 182 00:14:00,090 --> 00:14:05,490 manager is mediocre but the team is like superior and I can't thank them enough 183 00:14:05,490 --> 00:14:11,010 for the work that they do every day to make sure that we're in compliance. As you 184 00:14:11,010 --> 00:14:15,750 know, once in a while we find things that are a surprise to us and we fix them as 185 00:14:15,750 --> 00:14:23,230 soon as possible. In regards to OE6, good news is we are recommending that all 186 00:14:23,230 --> 00:14:30,050 areas are in compliance. I actually don't have any areas that I would point out other than 187 00:14:30,050 --> 00:14:36,310 this is ending for last fiscal years. You know, we did a, we did a balanced budget this year. 188 00:14:36,490 --> 00:14:41,490 You won't see that until next year. So that's all I had on this and I'd answer any questions 189 00:14:41,490 --> 00:14:47,770 a board would have related to OE6. Thank you, Mr. Chair. Board members, any questions? 190 00:14:53,130 --> 00:14:53,270 Seeing 191 00:14:53,270 --> 00:14:57,590 None. How's the board find us on OE6 financial administration? 192 00:15:00,500 --> 00:15:09,740 Mr. Lee. Thank you, President. I'm moved that we approve over six financial administration as in compliance has presented. 193 00:15:11,220 --> 00:15:12,180 I'll second. 194 00:15:12,580 --> 00:15:14,740 We have a motion in a second. Any further discussion? 195 00:15:17,680 --> 00:15:18,460 Mr. Chair, the roll please. 196 00:15:19,100 --> 00:15:19,980 Lee? Yes. 197 00:15:20,140 --> 00:15:20,960 Peterson? Yes. 198 00:15:21,200 --> 00:15:22,140 Preskey? Yes. 199 00:15:23,000 --> 00:15:23,660 He's gay. 200 00:15:24,060 --> 00:15:24,300 Yes. 201 00:15:25,340 --> 00:15:25,940 Motion passes. 202 00:15:26,680 --> 00:15:31,440 In Mr. Chair, we do appreciate the entire county department and also your work as well, sir. 203 00:15:31,440 --> 00:15:34,140 So the debricating humor is appreciated, 204 00:15:34,280 --> 00:15:36,460 but we do appreciate all the hard work you do for the district. 205 00:15:37,940 --> 00:15:41,000 Item 5B, the GC6 annual work plan. 206 00:15:41,020 --> 00:15:43,900 We'll have a public reading, and then the board. 207 00:15:44,840 --> 00:15:47,060 Dr. Johnson may have any notes on that as well. 208 00:15:48,040 --> 00:15:50,740 I would just say that this is a work plan. 209 00:15:51,040 --> 00:15:52,620 Again, related to our governance culture, 210 00:15:53,200 --> 00:15:57,480 and we'd ask the Board to consider retaining or amending 211 00:15:57,480 --> 00:16:00,060 the work plan as stated as a work plan. 212 00:16:00,060 --> 00:16:05,680 You might see, for example, we had talked about making a legislative connection with the 213 00:16:05,680 --> 00:16:06,840 breakfast in January. 214 00:16:07,780 --> 00:16:12,580 Well, many, I think everyone here participated in that already last month and so again, 215 00:16:12,820 --> 00:16:15,460 this is a plan that gives us a rough roadmap. 216 00:16:15,560 --> 00:16:22,620 Some of that are just based upon our opportunity to collaborate with our fellow legislators 217 00:16:23,340 --> 00:16:25,420 or where you as a board feels needed. 218 00:16:25,640 --> 00:16:30,040 So again, I think that it's been a good document to have clarity of the big picture, but 219 00:16:30,040 --> 00:16:33,360 again knowing that some of those pieces move at times. 220 00:16:34,380 --> 00:16:35,100 Thank you, Dr. Johnson. 221 00:16:35,500 --> 00:16:37,900 Here's the public reading for GC6 Annual Work Plan. 222 00:16:38,280 --> 00:16:41,940 The board will follow an annual work plan that includes continual monitoring and review 223 00:16:41,940 --> 00:16:46,820 of all policies, dialogue sessions with ownership groups and activities to improve board performance. 224 00:16:48,000 --> 00:16:51,960 Number one, the annual planning cycle and each year in November to allow the superintendent 225 00:16:51,960 --> 00:16:54,860 to properly align internal operational systems and processes. 226 00:16:55,820 --> 00:16:59,980 Number two, the board's annual work plan for the next year will include a scheduled 227 00:16:59,980 --> 00:17:03,520 dialogue sessions with ownership groups and persons whose viewpoints are considered helpful 228 00:17:03,520 --> 00:17:04,200 to the board. 229 00:17:05,020 --> 00:17:09,680 B, governance process and proven activities, including orientation and training of candidates 230 00:17:09,680 --> 00:17:12,460 and new board members in the board's governance process. 231 00:17:13,020 --> 00:17:16,360 And other discussions by the board about means to improve its own performance, especially 232 00:17:16,360 --> 00:17:17,680 board member knowledge and skills. 233 00:17:18,820 --> 00:17:23,360 C, scheduled monitoring of all policies, and D, other events and activities that are part 234 00:17:23,360 --> 00:17:25,520 of the board's responsibilities and interest. 235 00:17:26,320 --> 00:17:29,680 And anybody can see that we do have the any work plan attached. 236 00:17:34,650 --> 00:17:36,030 Or members any discussion? 237 00:17:38,490 --> 00:17:39,170 Mr. Lee. 238 00:17:39,650 --> 00:17:40,690 Thank you President Eastgate. 239 00:17:42,330 --> 00:17:46,750 You know this is one of those documents that when we were implementing coherent governance 240 00:17:46,750 --> 00:17:48,290 that just just made sense. 241 00:17:48,550 --> 00:17:49,530 It really details. 242 00:17:50,910 --> 00:17:53,130 Not just how we do our work but when we do our work. 243 00:17:53,830 --> 00:17:57,830 So I think it's really at the heart of our governance model. 244 00:17:57,830 --> 00:18:02,790 And I would make a motion to retain GC6, the annual work plan. 245 00:18:05,400 --> 00:18:06,280 All second. 246 00:18:06,820 --> 00:18:08,640 We have motion in a second and any further discussion. 247 00:18:10,120 --> 00:18:10,860 Seeing none, Mr. Chair. 248 00:18:11,900 --> 00:18:12,220 Peterson? 249 00:18:12,740 --> 00:18:13,000 Yes. 250 00:18:13,180 --> 00:18:13,980 Preskey? Yes. 251 00:18:14,160 --> 00:18:16,000 Hager? Yes. We. Yes. 252 00:18:16,160 --> 00:18:17,820 Yes. Motion passes. 253 00:18:18,840 --> 00:18:22,640 And how's the board find our school board as in compliance or out of compliance? 254 00:18:24,300 --> 00:18:29,900 I would move that the board is in compliance for the GC6 annual work plan. 255 00:18:30,480 --> 00:18:33,340 Second, we have motion in a second, and you further discussion, 256 00:18:35,570 --> 00:18:36,770 seeing none, Mr. Sharer. 257 00:18:37,130 --> 00:18:38,130 Preskey? Yes. 258 00:18:38,490 --> 00:18:38,630 Yes. 259 00:18:39,410 --> 00:18:39,690 Yes. 260 00:18:40,170 --> 00:18:40,790 Peterson? Yes. 261 00:18:41,970 --> 00:18:42,230 Yes. 262 00:18:43,370 --> 00:18:44,150 Motion passes. 263 00:18:46,690 --> 00:18:48,250 Moving on to item six on the agenda. 264 00:18:48,690 --> 00:18:53,210 Item six A is R2.1 academic achievement ELA. 265 00:18:53,890 --> 00:18:54,570 To Dr. Johnson. 266 00:18:56,130 --> 00:18:56,250 Yes. 267 00:18:57,210 --> 00:19:00,450 R21 President Eastgate members of the board, as you know, 268 00:19:00,450 --> 00:19:03,850 Our Learning Excellence Committee chaired with Amanda Peterson, 269 00:19:03,950 --> 00:19:08,710 board member, Peterson, has met and gave forward some recommendations regarding 270 00:19:08,710 --> 00:19:13,510 specifically changing ELA to a little bit broader of literacy and just really 271 00:19:13,510 --> 00:19:18,490 encompassing that literacy is present in many subject areas and experiences in that 272 00:19:18,490 --> 00:19:23,550 learning process. So with that, this is the second reading this. It was brought last time 273 00:19:23,550 --> 00:19:30,390 and we would recommend that you support the and adopt the final changes as red and 274 00:19:30,450 --> 00:19:34,330 and noted throughout the document that's attached. 275 00:19:35,070 --> 00:19:37,130 I'd send for any questions prior to that, 276 00:19:37,470 --> 00:19:37,910 or maybe you can, 277 00:19:38,090 --> 00:19:39,830 board member, Peter Sunwood as well. 278 00:19:41,740 --> 00:19:42,760 Board members, any questions? 279 00:19:46,100 --> 00:19:46,800 Mr. Lee? 280 00:19:47,040 --> 00:19:48,080 Thank you, President, he's good. 281 00:19:49,140 --> 00:19:52,400 More comment, I just view this as a good change. 282 00:19:53,460 --> 00:19:54,980 You know, and I think we said this last time, 283 00:19:55,080 --> 00:19:56,140 there's a lot of red on here, 284 00:19:56,260 --> 00:19:57,660 which kind of makes it a little bit intimidating 285 00:19:57,660 --> 00:19:59,480 when you're making changes to a policy, 286 00:20:00,320 --> 00:20:01,940 but really at the heart of it, 287 00:20:01,940 --> 00:20:08,340 it just makes sense about how we, how we conduct our business now, just using different assessments, 288 00:20:08,760 --> 00:20:14,320 how literacy makes sense to me. I think all the changes are well thought out, 289 00:20:14,900 --> 00:20:17,080 and just my comment is I support these changes. 290 00:20:23,080 --> 00:20:24,480 We're members any further discussion. 291 00:20:26,220 --> 00:20:28,960 If not, we would entertain a motion. I believe on this one tonight. 292 00:20:30,040 --> 00:20:30,440 Mr. Peterson. 293 00:20:30,780 --> 00:20:34,920 I would have moved that we approve the revised coherent governance results policy and supporting 294 00:20:34,920 --> 00:20:39,940 indicators for R-2-1 academic achievement ELA for second reading and final adoption. 295 00:20:41,340 --> 00:20:43,820 Second, we have motion to second any further discussion. 296 00:20:45,900 --> 00:20:46,340 Mr. Scher. 297 00:20:46,880 --> 00:20:50,120 Hey here. Yes. Lee. Yes. Peterson. Yes. 298 00:20:50,280 --> 00:20:53,340 Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Motion passes. 299 00:20:54,860 --> 00:20:57,560 Item 6B, Career Academy, Silver Ranch. 300 00:20:59,000 --> 00:20:59,640 Dr. Johnson. 301 00:21:01,780 --> 00:21:08,960 Mr. Chair may weigh in as well, but this request relates to an additional partition while 302 00:21:08,960 --> 00:21:14,400 in the industry partner room at the Career Academy Silver Ranch to save money that district 303 00:21:14,400 --> 00:21:17,980 is performing the installation outside of the construction project. 304 00:21:18,520 --> 00:21:22,960 However, we've received additional donations that cover the cost of this project. 305 00:21:22,960 --> 00:21:30,580 So, with the cost being around $76,880, we would recommend that you approve this as again, 306 00:21:30,920 --> 00:21:36,640 this is coming from a private donation, which I think just really exemplifies our continued work 307 00:21:36,640 --> 00:21:42,200 at public-private partnerships, as we're doing some amazing work and continue to expand the 308 00:21:42,200 --> 00:21:46,820 opportunities for our students in the region here regarding that, but I would ask Mr. Sheriff 309 00:21:46,820 --> 00:21:52,120 here as anything else that he'd like to comment. Now you covered it, I think. The biggest thing with 310 00:21:52,120 --> 00:21:56,700 The timing of this is it makes a lot of sense to do this now versus later 311 00:21:56,700 --> 00:21:58,580 So luckily all the stars aligned 312 00:21:58,580 --> 00:22:03,160 We did meet with board member Peterson and Hager on the process and we felt this was the best 313 00:22:03,440 --> 00:22:08,080 Process moving forward and just kind of for your information the two donations 314 00:22:08,080 --> 00:22:10,040 We received it was 315 00:22:10,040 --> 00:22:14,880 $100,000 so that more than covers this cost of the project 316 00:22:15,520 --> 00:22:19,640 Also that in the future you'll see one where we actually had a donation of 317 00:22:20,400 --> 00:22:24,740 carpet if you remember we didn't accept that alternative and some of it 318 00:22:24,740 --> 00:22:29,020 we're leaving us concrete because it makes sense it's a shop but there's 319 00:22:29,020 --> 00:22:29,980 some other areas like the 320 00:22:30,000 --> 00:22:36,320 Office in the industry training room that probably should have carpet, and we're able to secure a donation for that too. 321 00:22:36,620 --> 00:22:42,220 So you'll see that in the future, but timing wasn't as critical with that for a lead time on the item. 322 00:22:44,000 --> 00:22:44,800 Thank you, Mr. Chair. 323 00:22:46,420 --> 00:22:49,320 Board members, any questions for Dr. Johnson and Mr. Yelp? 324 00:22:49,720 --> 00:22:59,860 Yeah, thanks. President Eastgate. Not a question, but a comment in one of the things that for those in the public, if you, if you know what the rooms look like at the career academy, 325 00:22:59,860 --> 00:23:04,880 that have the partition in that multi-purpose room. You'll know that that room is used, I think, 326 00:23:05,140 --> 00:23:12,540 on the daily, with multiple, obviously the career Academy itself, but also the community utilizes 327 00:23:12,540 --> 00:23:17,540 that space. And so I envision too when we were having this conversation about a partition wall, 328 00:23:17,660 --> 00:23:23,440 I mean it just makes sense because you're able to use that room for so many different purposes 329 00:23:23,440 --> 00:23:29,480 that go that span not only what is used by the facility itself in terms of the educational value, 330 00:23:29,480 --> 00:23:31,200 but also the community as a whole. 331 00:23:31,640 --> 00:23:34,180 So I just thought that it was a no-brainer 332 00:23:34,180 --> 00:23:36,620 to make sure that we make that room as multifunctional 333 00:23:36,620 --> 00:23:37,280 as possible. 334 00:23:38,800 --> 00:23:39,880 Thanks for that board member Peterson. 335 00:23:41,820 --> 00:23:42,540 Completely agree. 336 00:23:42,760 --> 00:23:43,420 It's a great space. 337 00:23:43,620 --> 00:23:44,880 And like you said, it's used constantly 338 00:23:44,880 --> 00:23:46,360 for a number of different uses. 339 00:23:48,220 --> 00:23:49,340 Board members, I'd entertain a motion. 340 00:23:50,380 --> 00:23:50,680 Mr. Hager? 341 00:23:51,720 --> 00:23:54,260 I would move to approve the career Academy Silver Ranch 342 00:23:54,260 --> 00:23:58,360 project for seventy six thousand eight hundred eighty-seven dollars. 343 00:23:59,260 --> 00:24:00,160 And a second. 344 00:24:00,340 --> 00:24:01,180 Oh, thank you. 345 00:24:01,280 --> 00:24:02,020 With motion a second. 346 00:24:02,220 --> 00:24:02,760 Any further discussion? 347 00:24:03,160 --> 00:24:04,600 I'm just going to say thank you to the donors. 348 00:24:05,560 --> 00:24:06,020 So, absolutely. 349 00:24:08,110 --> 00:24:10,830 Mr. Sheriff, we have a motion in a second on the floor. 350 00:24:11,370 --> 00:24:11,510 Lee? 351 00:24:12,890 --> 00:24:12,970 Yes. 352 00:24:13,230 --> 00:24:13,450 Peterson? 353 00:24:13,810 --> 00:24:14,090 Yes. 354 00:24:14,250 --> 00:24:14,510 The prosecutor? 355 00:24:14,930 --> 00:24:15,330 Yes. 356 00:24:16,070 --> 00:24:16,670 He's gay. 357 00:24:16,870 --> 00:24:17,170 Yes. 358 00:24:18,050 --> 00:24:18,690 Motion passes. 359 00:24:19,350 --> 00:24:22,450 Item six C. We have board member school of visit updates, and I know we do have a 360 00:24:22,450 --> 00:24:24,810 few tonight, so depending on who wants to go first, I see Mr. 361 00:24:25,310 --> 00:24:27,590 So he gets the bat lead off. 362 00:24:27,910 --> 00:24:28,150 Thanks, President. 363 00:24:28,730 --> 00:24:31,350 You know, this was coming, so I left the light on for that reason. 364 00:24:32,050 --> 00:24:32,630 Go first. 365 00:24:32,870 --> 00:24:36,550 I have a few that have piled up on me, but I'm only going to cover one tonight. 366 00:24:37,450 --> 00:24:39,050 So I'm going to cover Lincoln Elementary. 367 00:24:40,010 --> 00:24:41,790 So Lincoln Elementary's familiar to all of us. 368 00:24:41,910 --> 00:24:42,510 We were there. 369 00:24:43,130 --> 00:24:47,610 Earlier this year with the expansion and in addition that was put on to Lincoln. 370 00:24:47,730 --> 00:24:49,110 Kind of touring that. 371 00:24:49,250 --> 00:24:54,070 At the time when we were there, obviously kids weren't in class quite yet. 372 00:24:54,070 --> 00:25:00,070 So there's a lot of boxes stacked up in some of those rooms so I did have the opportunity to go down to those 373 00:25:00,070 --> 00:25:02,690 those rooms and see them actually functioning as classrooms. 374 00:25:04,510 --> 00:25:12,530 Miss Hertz, she mentioned that it's, it's really nice having the school now kind of right size in the past, 375 00:25:12,650 --> 00:25:15,950 you know, they had the portables out back and then they not having to have kids and portables, 376 00:25:16,050 --> 00:25:20,730 everybody's in the building and when you think about it, it is a big, it's a big school, 377 00:25:20,730 --> 00:25:24,850 you know, the largest elementary school in the state over 90 staff members in the building. 378 00:25:25,170 --> 00:25:29,190 So it's it's it's a big building, but it does definitely has this kind of this small town feel. 379 00:25:30,150 --> 00:25:37,110 So on the way down, to go visit, then the new wing ran into Officer Sauer, who said, 380 00:25:37,230 --> 00:25:41,030 he likes to stop by when when when time allows and kind of walks walks the halls and 381 00:25:41,030 --> 00:25:45,730 greets kids and he's a pretty popular character as a as a police officer. 382 00:25:45,730 --> 00:25:51,670 He told me he has stickers that are badge stickers, very popular with the kids. 383 00:25:51,790 --> 00:25:55,770 But he has to be careful because if he has a limited supply and he starts to give a couple 384 00:25:55,770 --> 00:25:58,390 out and he knows the kids are going to come run and he's going to run out real fast. 385 00:25:59,070 --> 00:26:02,510 So he's maybe a little stingy with his stickers at time. 386 00:26:03,730 --> 00:26:12,810 So as we toward the building, heard over and over again of how amazing the staff is down there 387 00:26:12,810 --> 00:26:17,550 and how they go and bummed me on this research just couldn't praise her staff enough. 388 00:26:19,150 --> 00:26:24,350 They talked about Erin, one of the custodians who when she picks up pencils as she's 389 00:26:24,350 --> 00:26:28,630 cleaning up she'll stick them in her hair and they were saying how the kids just get a kick out of 390 00:26:28,630 --> 00:26:32,510 it because that time she'll have over a dozen pencils sticking out of her hair and they said she 391 00:26:32,510 --> 00:26:37,230 kind of looks like a monster and they really get a kick out of it and one person I know 392 00:26:37,230 --> 00:26:42,530 all of us met when we did the tour originally was Anthony the head custodian you guys remember Anthony 393 00:26:43,050 --> 00:26:51,070 So this isn't going to come to as a surprise anybody, so they do a family dance at Lincoln. Anthony is the DJ. 394 00:26:52,070 --> 00:26:55,810 He apparently has a 90s jumpsuit. He wears with a gold chain while he DJs. 395 00:26:57,190 --> 00:27:01,230 And further, when I thought about it, did this in surprise me either. 396 00:27:01,310 --> 00:27:03,810 He's also the vice president of the PTO out at Lincoln. 397 00:27:05,150 --> 00:27:08,090 So we got to see Anthony again, always smiles. 398 00:27:08,090 --> 00:27:17,190 just always appears to be extremely happy to be there just a positive attitude. I can see how kids really gravitate to somebody like him. He's just just an exceptional guy. 399 00:27:18,670 --> 00:27:27,290 On the tour tour, we went through the kitchen. You think again, about the number of kids there and having to feed a lot of kids. 400 00:27:27,290 --> 00:27:34,290 So, I get to meet the head cook, Andre, who happens to be Alliance fans, who he's having an exceptional year. 401 00:27:35,230 --> 00:27:39,590 Mr. T, who is a Vikings fan that had some friendly banter as we were going through there. 402 00:27:41,010 --> 00:27:47,210 All in all, it was a great tour. It was fun to go back out. It was fun to see that. 403 00:27:47,210 --> 00:27:52,050 That addition, have some kids in it and seeing it, you know, function as, as we hoped it would. 404 00:27:52,310 --> 00:27:53,310 So, that's my link in visit. 405 00:27:54,170 --> 00:27:55,910 Thanks, Mr. Hager. Mr. Peterson. 406 00:27:57,430 --> 00:28:02,750 Thanks. I feel like we're going from our largest elementary school to one of our smallest 407 00:28:02,750 --> 00:28:09,870 I was, I had the opportunity to visit Dr. Ravenberg at Prairie Rose Elementary, you know, 408 00:28:10,030 --> 00:28:16,230 kind of down in that same same neck of the woods, but very different size of school. And you 409 00:28:16,230 --> 00:28:20,550 know, you talked about 90 staff. She actually has eight full-time staff and then a lot of different 410 00:28:20,550 --> 00:28:25,950 staff that I think just through our processes that we share a lot of staff between 411 00:28:25,950 --> 00:28:31,050 Perry Rose and perhaps, you know, maybe soul high, maybe I 412 00:28:31,050 --> 00:28:35,050 mentioned some connections with Grimzer with their instructional coaching staff. So I 413 00:28:35,050 --> 00:28:40,330 think that you guys have done a lot of really great work and making sure that 414 00:28:40,330 --> 00:28:46,510 that's kind of an efficient space with only 141 students currently at that day. 415 00:28:47,190 --> 00:28:50,530 But the person that greeted me right when I walked in and I really like the 416 00:28:50,530 --> 00:28:56,790 practice for those that are doing that. But a young fifth grader named Charlie greeted me and took 417 00:28:56,790 --> 00:29:01,810 me on to a school tour. And I've been out at Prairie Rose a couple of different times. I actually 418 00:29:01,810 --> 00:29:09,370 my my own children attended blast there. But I was limited to just their you know their gym space 419 00:29:09,370 --> 00:29:15,170 and you know and the outdoors. And that day that we went there was it was last week. I think it was 420 00:29:15,170 --> 00:29:20,710 Friday or Thursday or Friday and it was very very cold before a little heat, you know, heat 421 00:29:20,710 --> 00:29:24,990 wave this weekend but it was very cold and so and I came at lunch time and a lot of them 422 00:29:24,990 --> 00:29:30,730 were making the transition between recess and lunch and lots of rosy cheeks and and seeing 423 00:29:30,730 --> 00:29:36,510 just how those educators get those kids ready to go outside get some fresh air and then come back 424 00:29:36,510 --> 00:29:42,350 in. But Charlie was taking me around to the whole school. I mean we were able to complete that 425 00:29:42,350 --> 00:29:48,130 who are relatively quickly because there are just very few classrooms, and I thought that 426 00:29:48,130 --> 00:29:52,070 it was, you know, in each of the rooms it was either empty or we were seeing them coming 427 00:29:52,070 --> 00:29:57,170 just back inside and getting settled and just watching the teachers kind of play all 428 00:29:57,170 --> 00:29:58,890 of those different roles was great. 429 00:30:01,040 --> 00:30:30,480 When we got to the kindergarten classroom, it was kind of towards the end of the tour. And Mrs. Stoltz was there and reading them as they were kind of coming in. And that was a lovely classroom. You know, sometimes when we come in there on these visits, they may or may not know why we're there. But I was able to get my bucket filled because I had a lot of kids who just immediately came and gave me a huge hug. And just it was very, very sweet. But more importantly, I think what you feel like in a, 430 00:30:30,480 --> 00:30:35,580 school that that size is a sense of belonging. You could tell that all of the students feel 431 00:30:35,580 --> 00:30:43,580 welcome. They know each other. You know Dr. Remberg knows all of the kids by name. I mean, 432 00:30:43,740 --> 00:30:49,960 it's just a very intimate and fun environment to be a part of. So I really loved going into that 433 00:30:49,960 --> 00:30:55,400 kindergarten classroom where I could really get to see those kiddos. After that, we went back 434 00:30:55,400 --> 00:30:57,320 into the office and kind of just shared. 435 00:30:57,440 --> 00:31:00,940 And one of the other pieces that I think that Tabi does 436 00:31:00,940 --> 00:31:03,040 and that we've gotten to experience as a board 437 00:31:03,040 --> 00:31:06,800 is part of her portfolio is also to support 438 00:31:06,800 --> 00:31:08,220 a lot of the CTE efforts. 439 00:31:08,720 --> 00:31:10,840 And I know that in the various committees 440 00:31:10,840 --> 00:31:12,400 and things that we've been talking about 441 00:31:12,400 --> 00:31:13,980 and even with the strategic planning, 442 00:31:14,480 --> 00:31:16,360 we've definitely been talking about experiences 443 00:31:16,360 --> 00:31:19,780 such as like CTE for all authentic learning experiences 444 00:31:19,780 --> 00:31:20,420 for all. 445 00:31:20,840 --> 00:31:25,380 And I think that Tabi and her team kind of embody that 446 00:31:25,380 --> 00:31:30,520 of the places that are one of the rooms that we went to in the in the at Prairie Rose itself, 447 00:31:31,040 --> 00:31:36,700 was a makerspace room with lots of different opportunities for students to go into that room. 448 00:31:37,360 --> 00:31:42,780 And I mean there's a green screen in one corner, there's Lego wall over in the other corners. 449 00:31:42,960 --> 00:31:47,500 So just really utilizing a space in a very small school to be able to have that makerspace 450 00:31:47,500 --> 00:31:53,740 and those different experiences all the way down to the elementary level in terms of workforce development. 451 00:31:53,740 --> 00:32:12,160 And I think that that ended up being kind of some of the conversations that we were having as those just different opportunities that she's helped harness with some of the middle school work that she's been doing with the middle school experiences and authentic learning and really just bringing that all together. 452 00:32:13,200 --> 00:32:22,440 So all in all it was a really great visit. She highlighted and I've highlighted this in a couple of the and I've highlighted it because the principles themselves have highlighted. 453 00:32:22,440 --> 00:32:27,400 the level, the certification levels that they're doing for the high-reliable schools. 454 00:32:27,720 --> 00:32:33,880 And so Tabby emphasized that she was working at level two certification, which is kind of an instructional framework. 455 00:32:34,760 --> 00:32:40,020 And her team had really been putting a lot of work and effort into that instructional framework. 456 00:32:40,300 --> 00:32:47,160 And she really credits her team and that small school structure for that shared decision-making and that ability to kind of put it all together. 457 00:32:47,160 --> 00:32:53,500 So it was a great visit, it was great to be there per year rose, the students and the staff 458 00:32:53,500 --> 00:33:00,500 are excelling in all areas and it was just really really nice that I got to go visit and 459 00:33:00,500 --> 00:33:02,360 spend some time down in that neck of the woods. 460 00:33:03,220 --> 00:33:04,460 Thanks a lot, Mr. Peterson. 461 00:33:05,080 --> 00:33:10,100 And Mr. Lee, thank you President Eastgate, thank you for that report, Mr. Peterson. 462 00:33:10,360 --> 00:33:16,980 One thing I would say is Dr. Ravenberg has been invaluable as far as expanding our 463 00:33:16,980 --> 00:33:30,420 and writing grants. It's just been awesome. I mean, she is so in her wheelhouse and that stuff and I just want her and the district to know how much we appreciate her work and in CTE, it's been phenomenal. 464 00:33:31,620 --> 00:33:40,020 I had the pleasure of visiting some wild cats from Walker Middle School, which is home of the past two North Dakota teachers of the year back to back. 465 00:33:40,680 --> 00:33:47,080 First, Mr. Peterson, and this year Mr. Burgerhood. They're pretty proud of that and they should be incredible school. 466 00:33:47,680 --> 00:33:54,080 I was able to tour the building with Principal Esplend, a former North Sider. I grew up with her. 467 00:33:54,280 --> 00:34:01,060 She still looks like she's in high school and I look like I'm not. But it was fun to catch up with her. 468 00:34:01,060 --> 00:34:07,480 Who, of course, you know, she moved from an AP position at CHS into the principal position 469 00:34:07,480 --> 00:34:07,960 at Walker. 470 00:34:08,100 --> 00:34:11,000 I believe it's a second year, so that's on right. 471 00:34:12,660 --> 00:34:17,120 But I just asked her about the transition, and she felt it was very smooth and it 472 00:34:17,120 --> 00:34:20,740 helps that she began her career teaching in a middle school in Brooklyn, Center, Minnesota. 473 00:34:22,200 --> 00:34:24,520 Yeah, she just had nothing but good things to say. 474 00:34:25,640 --> 00:34:29,600 I visited on a Friday afternoon, and the halls were extremely quiet. 475 00:34:29,600 --> 00:34:32,340 It was almost eerie, and I'm like, am I in laughter? 476 00:34:32,580 --> 00:34:34,040 I mean, am I in any minute of school? 477 00:34:34,500 --> 00:34:37,240 It's, yeah, but it was, it was quiet until the bell rang. 478 00:34:37,780 --> 00:34:40,000 And the energy that was released at that point 479 00:34:40,000 --> 00:34:41,440 was absolutely phenomenal. 480 00:34:43,020 --> 00:34:44,840 I witnessed kids moving through the halls 481 00:34:44,840 --> 00:34:47,420 in a very orderly yet exuberant fashion. 482 00:34:47,580 --> 00:34:48,920 I mean, you would all be so proud 483 00:34:48,920 --> 00:34:52,180 because it was mass organized chaos. 484 00:34:52,460 --> 00:34:55,720 And I didn't, didn't see anything that was out of place. 485 00:34:56,020 --> 00:34:59,100 Kids were very, yeah, they were just great. 486 00:34:59,100 --> 00:35:01,360 It was, it was, it was fun to see. 487 00:35:01,940 --> 00:35:07,200 Principal Aspund is a very proud of their peer-to-peer program, how it's grown, and how it 488 00:35:07,200 --> 00:35:09,840 gives kids leadership opportunities. 489 00:35:10,020 --> 00:35:14,360 I think most of our buildings that have a peer-to-peer would say the same thing, but 490 00:35:14,360 --> 00:35:15,860 she's exceptionally proud of theirs. 491 00:35:16,840 --> 00:35:22,880 Also a source of pride is their growing, EL population, and Walker works hard at helping 492 00:35:22,880 --> 00:35:25,340 those students become part of the fabric of their school. 493 00:35:25,340 --> 00:35:31,240 She shared some data with me. I believe one of the teams had 152 kids on the team 53 494 00:35:31,240 --> 00:35:40,180 Where EL students 30% so the EL population is growing there and it does create some challenges 495 00:35:41,740 --> 00:35:44,780 But but it's pretty cool. I mean she she really 496 00:35:45,420 --> 00:35:51,780 feels their staff has embraced them and they do some really neat things. So one thing I saw on social media 497 00:35:52,640 --> 00:35:56,000 was how they explored differences and similarities between cultures. 498 00:35:56,400 --> 00:35:59,900 And I thought this was so cool, but there was a good example they put out 499 00:35:59,900 --> 00:36:05,840 with kids sharing and celebrating the processes, techniques and recipes for less 500 00:36:05,840 --> 00:36:10,480 and for tortillas, which is incredible, right? 501 00:36:10,560 --> 00:36:13,220 I mean, pretty close, you know, but very different products. 502 00:36:14,240 --> 00:36:18,440 And they had a lot of fun with that, and they took the finished products 503 00:36:18,440 --> 00:36:19,920 and compared and contrasted it to. 504 00:36:19,920 --> 00:36:27,500 But just one way that they weave some of the similarities and differences between cultures into their day, into their curriculum, 505 00:36:27,600 --> 00:36:28,260 which is cool. 506 00:36:28,320 --> 00:36:30,020 And that was, I believe, the sixth graders. 507 00:36:30,340 --> 00:36:34,740 And then she talked about the seventh graders, how they focus more on servant leadership. 508 00:36:35,800 --> 00:36:40,060 And when I was walking through, they were in the middle of reorganizing the lost and found. 509 00:36:40,120 --> 00:36:44,640 And if you've been in any of our schools, the lost and founds look like a bomb went off, right? 510 00:36:44,640 --> 00:36:50,300 And it did there, but it was really cool to see these seventh graders just sorting and hanging 511 00:36:50,300 --> 00:36:52,480 things up and making it look nice. 512 00:36:53,480 --> 00:36:53,860 It's pretty cool. 513 00:36:54,020 --> 00:36:56,020 So it's all part of that servant leadership. 514 00:36:57,060 --> 00:37:01,860 And they do many other things like wiping down tables and identifying needs in the community 515 00:37:01,860 --> 00:37:03,080 and filling those gaps. 516 00:37:03,240 --> 00:37:09,060 I think at one point they were part of the backpack program or backing meals for kids 517 00:37:09,060 --> 00:37:13,720 and just a lot of cool things, so a lot of new things going on there. 518 00:37:15,600 --> 00:37:20,940 Principal Esplan has a young tech department as she put it, which is working with 519 00:37:20,940 --> 00:37:25,900 fellow teachers to provide new opportunities to students through collaboration and 520 00:37:25,900 --> 00:37:29,780 ingenuity, and she was really excited about some of these teachers. 521 00:37:30,000 --> 00:37:47,580 Taking things to the next level, and the layout of the building as we were walking through, you can tell us, you know, we've kind of added on, but they've done a really good job of kind of reinventing their wings for six and seventh and eighth grade, even where their teams are. 522 00:37:47,700 --> 00:37:54,700 You know, it's not easy because the building wasn't necessarily designed, but it does actually have almost a pod like feel. 523 00:37:55,440 --> 00:37:59,820 like we have it horizon and then she took us by a few 524 00:37:59,820 --> 00:38:02,920 few doors that Jason Middlested had put in and Darren 525 00:38:02,920 --> 00:38:06,800 Sheer was instrumental in that kind of locked down the school 526 00:38:06,800 --> 00:38:09,780 if you've been in the school in the past few years 527 00:38:09,780 --> 00:38:12,120 to a game or a dance. 528 00:38:12,760 --> 00:38:14,740 If you looked around, if you paid attention, 529 00:38:15,040 --> 00:38:17,380 you kind of look and go, oh man, anybody could run down that hallway. 530 00:38:17,680 --> 00:38:22,020 Well, they've kind of got those things short up and she feels 531 00:38:22,020 --> 00:38:26,580 a lot better about that, that the that the school is is much more secure. 532 00:38:28,440 --> 00:38:30,140 She feels they have a very robust 533 00:38:30,780 --> 00:38:33,700 Abbott programming that they're working to make systematic. 534 00:38:34,340 --> 00:38:39,380 She feels the strength of Walker is there is their teachers. 535 00:38:40,020 --> 00:38:43,080 And she just really emphasized this that they take care of the kids 536 00:38:43,080 --> 00:38:45,280 and they take care of each other. 537 00:38:45,860 --> 00:38:46,940 That was pretty cool to hear. 538 00:38:47,120 --> 00:38:50,200 They work, work hard at teaming and ways to work together and collaborate 539 00:38:50,200 --> 00:38:56,680 and individual needs of students and the staff truly embraces the kids and I can tell you 540 00:38:56,680 --> 00:39:01,180 from experience many of them couldn't see teaching in any other school because of the, 541 00:39:01,200 --> 00:39:06,080 and I believe it's because of the different stenos they make every day and it's pretty cool. 542 00:39:06,300 --> 00:39:13,620 There is so much pride with that school among the staff and teachers in the work they do each day 543 00:39:13,620 --> 00:39:19,840 and they should be proud because they do a great job. Some of the challenging things 544 00:39:20,460 --> 00:39:30,120 Now, and in the future, I think she feels are staffing, and they lost one FTE at a time when the needs continue to grow, and I think we've 545 00:39:30,120 --> 00:39:38,000 feel that somewhat district-wide, we're kind of trying to do more of what's last, so I think we talked about that a lot, 546 00:39:40,860 --> 00:39:42,360 and 547 00:39:43,420 --> 00:39:47,620 something we've talked about on the board virtual learning and we really had a 548 00:39:47,620 --> 00:39:52,020 great talk about systems and those systems need to be in place so kids don't 549 00:39:52,020 --> 00:39:56,340 fall behind and consistent monitoring to ensure that doesn't happen which I 550 00:39:56,340 --> 00:40:03,960 thought was was really good inside. So I just had a great visit to walker and I 551 00:40:03,960 --> 00:40:07,740 enjoyed every minute of it. Now I just want to make a comment because this is 552 00:40:07,740 --> 00:40:14,900 side for my visit. But this is the only middle school I'm I'm going to this year and I can't 553 00:40:14,900 --> 00:40:19,800 remember if we reported out I think horizon was reported out on I'm not sure who's 554 00:40:19,800 --> 00:40:25,740 that is simply having gone there yet. So you know one thing I just challenged board members 555 00:40:25,740 --> 00:40:34,780 on is get into these schools just just try to understand you know the MTSSB and how well it's 556 00:40:34,780 --> 00:40:37,220 working because there are a lot of wins. 557 00:40:37,520 --> 00:40:39,320 There's a lot of good things going on, 558 00:40:39,500 --> 00:40:41,320 and a lot of positive supports in place. 559 00:40:42,080 --> 00:40:46,540 But I do think, you know, as we look in the future, 560 00:40:48,060 --> 00:40:49,980 virtual learning has a place. 561 00:40:50,620 --> 00:40:53,420 And I've talked to a number of middle school teachers 562 00:40:53,420 --> 00:40:55,000 over the past couple years, 563 00:40:55,080 --> 00:40:58,060 and I know we continue to have some big challenges 564 00:40:58,060 --> 00:40:59,120 in our buildings. 565 00:40:59,820 --> 00:41:02,060 And I think one of the things, 566 00:41:02,880 --> 00:41:04,760 and Mr. Hager and I have talked about this, 567 00:41:04,760 --> 00:41:11,460 But one of the things the board should be monitoring is the building population that renew 568 00:41:11,460 --> 00:41:12,040 ed. 569 00:41:12,280 --> 00:41:17,840 And how many students being served are from Legacy, BHS, CHS, Walker, Horizon, Simley. 570 00:41:18,480 --> 00:41:21,020 And looking at, you know, is it equitable? 571 00:41:21,580 --> 00:41:26,320 Because I think there's a vein out there that feels it's not. 572 00:41:27,380 --> 00:41:33,400 I'm hearing so many needs at the middle school level and where kids are denied placement 573 00:41:33,400 --> 00:41:40,260 at Renewed because of its capacity and I'll say this. That's perfectly understandable. There is 574 00:41:40,260 --> 00:41:47,420 a capacity like all of our buildings. There has to be. But I think we as a board need to look 575 00:41:47,420 --> 00:41:54,980 at creative things. And I'm just saying this from one board members viewpoint, but even seriously 576 00:41:54,980 --> 00:42:00,760 considering Renewed being middle school only. And I say that because the high schools have other 577 00:42:00,760 --> 00:42:03,660 resources as well as an alternative to high school in South Central. 578 00:42:04,700 --> 00:42:08,680 And we have talked over the years about an alternative middle school, which I think is a great 579 00:42:08,680 --> 00:42:14,760 idea, but it's a funding thing, and to be honest, we haven't been discussing that lately 580 00:42:14,760 --> 00:42:19,140 and I don't see that anywhere on the horizon in the next few years. 581 00:42:20,820 --> 00:42:26,540 So I think, you know, when you think about it, I look at these buildings and the administrators, 582 00:42:26,540 --> 00:42:31,580 There's the principles and APs when they're asking for a student to be placed in an alternative setting. 583 00:42:33,200 --> 00:42:38,080 I really believe that that's the last resort and that's what's best for their building. 584 00:42:38,780 --> 00:42:42,800 So at that point I feel like we have to have solutions in place. 585 00:42:43,980 --> 00:42:45,720 And I'm not saying we're doing anything wrong. 586 00:42:45,860 --> 00:42:48,180 I'm saying we can do better. 587 00:42:49,000 --> 00:42:52,480 And it's just one of the things we should take a look at. 588 00:42:52,480 --> 00:42:54,340 So, that's it. 589 00:42:54,480 --> 00:42:55,460 Thank you. 590 00:42:55,580 --> 00:42:56,380 Thank you, Mr. Lee. 591 00:42:56,600 --> 00:42:56,880 Thank you. 592 00:42:56,940 --> 00:42:58,600 All board members for sharing on school visits. 593 00:42:59,340 --> 00:43:02,020 They continue to be a highlight on the agenda for me, and I'm sure most of the people 594 00:43:02,020 --> 00:43:03,980 listening out there. 595 00:43:04,640 --> 00:43:08,220 Moving on on our agenda to item seven, it's the consent agenda, and as we get to this one, 596 00:43:08,340 --> 00:43:11,560 it's want to say any time we have retirements on here, I feel like anybody that's retiring 597 00:43:11,560 --> 00:43:12,960 from BPS deserves a hat tip. 598 00:43:13,180 --> 00:43:17,480 It is hard when you have somebody that's on there that, you know, personally not say anything 599 00:43:17,480 --> 00:43:18,040 about it. 600 00:43:18,520 --> 00:43:21,640 So, Mrs. Larshis, it was my help me get through the second grade. 601 00:43:21,640 --> 00:43:26,240 And made sure that I saw that learning and education can be really fun at a really young age. 602 00:43:26,440 --> 00:43:30,160 And I, she had a lot of great teachers at Miller Elementary, but she was certainly one of them. 603 00:43:30,220 --> 00:43:33,380 And I got to see her last year at her building on my school visit. 604 00:43:33,820 --> 00:43:35,800 So thank you very much, Mrs. Larshis. 605 00:43:36,540 --> 00:43:38,920 With that, what other wishes of the board regarding the consent agenda? 606 00:43:40,520 --> 00:43:42,560 I'm aware that we adopt the consent agenda. 607 00:43:43,300 --> 00:43:43,560 Second. 608 00:43:44,500 --> 00:43:46,200 Motion is second. Any further discussion? 609 00:43:47,700 --> 00:43:48,640 Seeing none, Mr. Share. 610 00:43:49,460 --> 00:43:49,820 Peterson? 611 00:43:50,060 --> 00:43:50,200 Yes. 612 00:43:50,940 --> 00:43:51,380 Yes. 613 00:43:52,600 --> 00:43:53,040 Yes. 614 00:43:53,860 --> 00:43:54,180 Yes. 615 00:43:54,600 --> 00:43:55,380 Motion passes. 616 00:43:56,100 --> 00:43:59,400 Lastly, in the agenda item, I made a superintendents report, and I should have probably mentioned 617 00:43:59,400 --> 00:44:02,900 at the beginning of the meeting that Dr. Fauss is not playing hooky here tonight. 618 00:44:03,960 --> 00:44:09,000 Dr. Fauss not puts in tireless, endless hours with his VPS family, and this week we're 619 00:44:09,000 --> 00:44:11,820 glad that he's with his family family on some vacation days. 620 00:44:12,220 --> 00:44:16,620 So, with that, though, VPS also has two greatest system superintendents, and Dr. Ben Johnson 621 00:44:16,620 --> 00:44:17,420 taking the chair in there. 622 00:44:17,540 --> 00:44:18,360 We certainly appreciate it. 623 00:44:18,360 --> 00:44:24,280 Dr. Brad Barnherne, as well, to being with us and Darren Chier, of course, always providing 624 00:44:24,280 --> 00:44:26,100 us help from the business manager's position. 625 00:44:26,340 --> 00:44:28,840 So we certainly appreciate the whole team that we have at Central Office. 626 00:44:29,540 --> 00:44:33,820 With that, Dr. Johnson, I don't know if we're going right to you, or to Mr. Scherr on 8A major 627 00:44:33,820 --> 00:44:34,340 projects. 628 00:44:35,500 --> 00:44:40,800 I'll just second let it go to Mr. Scherr, but as I said, I'm prepared for this as you indicated 629 00:44:40,800 --> 00:44:46,820 with Dr. Frost not being absent, I got to visit with Ms. Don Brown again and just this 630 00:44:46,820 --> 00:44:53,920 her last official agenda that put together and so she's overseen and I say overseen because 631 00:44:53,920 --> 00:44:59,020 she's our boss a little bit, five superintendents, including the interns over the time. 632 00:45:00,000 --> 00:45:29,980 Wonderful, dedicated career, and she will be missed by many. And there's a lot of things behind the scenes too that people will just be surprised. But again, we move forward, but I just wanted to give her that public acknowledgement to, along with teachers, but that will be a mid-year change. So again, congratulating her and the next phase that she's moving on with, but pleasure to be in one of the best school districts in the upper plains, I truly believe that. And I think that she sees that too from her vantage point. And with that, we'll talk about, so the last minute. 633 00:45:30,000 --> 00:45:31,620 to projects there, so Mr. Share. 634 00:45:33,040 --> 00:45:38,820 All right, thank you, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Johnson, President Eastgate members of the board. 635 00:45:40,160 --> 00:45:46,240 So a few pictures, we have stuff happening, so we continue to park concrete, footings are 636 00:45:46,240 --> 00:45:51,040 all port, foundation walls are being poured, interior pads will be poured. 637 00:45:51,480 --> 00:45:57,900 The good news is, once we get all that poured, which should be hopefully pretty well complete 638 00:45:57,900 --> 00:46:02,860 here in the month of December we'll start seeing structure go up right away because as you remember 639 00:46:02,860 --> 00:46:06,960 when we're doing the groundbreaking they're unloading the building. So the building is here. 640 00:46:07,320 --> 00:46:14,860 So that'll go pretty fast. Temporary power is on site, which that's a nice thing for those 641 00:46:14,860 --> 00:46:21,940 workers to have that available. So I'm to use on site to the site and we're getting ready. We're 642 00:46:21,940 --> 00:46:26,920 actually pouring the north foundation wall first so we can get actually utility stubbed into the 643 00:46:26,920 --> 00:46:29,240 building one of the first things. 644 00:46:30,060 --> 00:46:34,820 In addition, you'll have the financials in front of you, 645 00:46:34,980 --> 00:46:37,440 and I would answer any questions 646 00:46:37,440 --> 00:46:39,160 that you may have related to the project. 647 00:46:40,260 --> 00:46:41,780 Board members, any questions from Mr. Share? 648 00:46:44,140 --> 00:46:44,760 Board member Lee? 649 00:46:45,460 --> 00:46:45,940 Thank you, President. 650 00:46:46,060 --> 00:46:49,040 And he's get no questions, Mr. Share. 651 00:46:49,300 --> 00:46:51,180 I do have a comment with Don Brown. 652 00:46:53,500 --> 00:46:55,420 And thank you for reminding us. 653 00:46:55,420 --> 00:47:02,140 but she was so valued by everybody she worked for, worked along with. 654 00:47:02,780 --> 00:47:12,780 But it was really her and Dr. Ben Johnson who were probably the most trained in our coherent governance when we rolled that out. 655 00:47:13,460 --> 00:47:19,060 And both of them put in just a ton of extra time above and beyond is what I would say. 656 00:47:19,060 --> 00:47:24,220 but I've seen Don do that that time and again, she was, 657 00:47:24,800 --> 00:47:27,860 she's gonna leave some big shoes to fill 658 00:47:28,680 --> 00:47:31,040 and she did a great job and certainly wish her 659 00:47:31,040 --> 00:47:34,560 the best in her retirement, but yeah, she will be missed. 660 00:47:35,640 --> 00:47:36,520 Yeah, if that's a second, 661 00:47:36,680 --> 00:47:38,080 I'd like to give a third as well. 662 00:47:38,580 --> 00:47:39,540 I wish Don was here tonight. 663 00:47:39,720 --> 00:47:40,520 She really is amazing. 664 00:47:40,700 --> 00:47:42,100 I mentioned earlier, the BPS family 665 00:47:42,100 --> 00:47:43,900 and you kind of alluded to it, Dr. Johnson. 666 00:47:44,480 --> 00:47:45,380 Don's the boss. 667 00:47:45,640 --> 00:47:48,200 I mean, let's, you know, when you go into that office, 668 00:47:48,200 --> 00:47:51,900 She's definitely helping us all kind of run that show and we show up for meetings and everything 669 00:47:52,660 --> 00:47:57,880 So John Mr. Lee just said this well both behind the scenes as well as in front of a lot of meetings 670 00:47:57,880 --> 00:48:01,900 It go on there. She's been amazing and yeah, we will certainly miss her 671 00:48:01,900 --> 00:48:04,820 So she probably won't appreciate that I did this though 672 00:48:04,820 --> 00:48:09,440 But I just had to have that opportunity because as you said just so much work 673 00:48:09,440 --> 00:48:16,080 She's brilliant and very compassionate lady and we'll be nice because I get to see her every day 674 00:48:16,080 --> 00:48:21,220 all that but absolutely above and beyond. Thank you everybody with that all-gen items 675 00:48:21,220 --> 00:48:23,440 happen considered. I declare this meeting adjourned.