May 11, 2020 at 7:30 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting

Discussion:  The meeting was called to order at 7:31pm.

Discussion: 

President Mrkvicka noted that notice of the meeting was properly published in the Phonograph Herald and/or in 3 public places, per policy.

Discussion: 

President Mrkvicka noted that the Open Meetings Law is posted on the wall of the meeting room.

Discussion:  President Mrkvicka read the Americanism quote.  "Religion and morality are the essential pillars of civil society".  George Washington.

Discussion: 

President Mrkvicka asked if there were any additions or corrections to the minutes of the previous meeting. None were made, and the minutes were declared approved.

Discussion:  During the discussion regarding the bills, Mr. Scheer commented that he hopes the district is purchasing as many supplies locally as possible.  A bill was paid for gym floor floor resurfacing, as both gyms have been resurfaced.  Regarding the transfer to the hot lunch fund, Supt. Poppert explained that the school is currently providing 2 meals (breakfast and lunch) five days a week, for 235 students.  

Discussion: 

The Superintendent presented the Financial Report.  He noted that the district has been using cash reserves for the budget expenses in recent years, but will have to increase taxes next year.  There will be an increase in State Aid to the district, but it will not be sufficient to cover the increase in expenses.  

Discussion: 

Mrs. Kayla Svoboda was present to speak during the public comment portion of the meeting.  She spoke regarding recent changes at Central Community College, in which teachers will no longer be paid by CCC for teaching college classes at the high school level. Mrs. Svoboda and Mr. Dustin Nilsen currently teach college level classes to St. Paul students, and additional coursework is required of those teachers to be able to teach at the college level.  The Board expressed appreciation for her comments, and acknowledged that it is a great benefit for St. Paul students to be able to take college courses taught by the District's own teachers.

Discussion: 
Supt. Poppert reviewed the legal options from the School Attorney for grading of the 4th Quarter.  It was reported that the school cannot use fourth quarter grades due to government regulations that require equal and appropriate accommodations for all students.  For example, there is inequity in the amount and quality of internet across the district.  In addition, there is no way to know which students were doing their own work.  Mrs. Morgan spoke for several on the Board in saying that she would like to give credit to all kids for fourth quarter work, but legally that is not an option.  After a great deal of discussion, the board decided that fourth quarter grades will be pass/fail.

Discussion:  The Board had a long discussion regarding options for the situation it was placed in by the Community College system.  The Board tried to balance providing learning opportunities for students, with compensating teachers of the dual credit classes for the additional work required of them, as well as appropriate use of taxpayer dollars.

Discussion:  The Board discussed Policy 6028, in particular, the hiring of parents of current players to serve as paid Assistant coaches.  Everyone was in agreement that it is best if all paid coaches are certified staff members.  After a long discussion, the Board decided to amend the current policy to state that, in the event that a certified staff member cannot be found to fill a coaching position, a formal process will be completed by the AD, with an application and interview process, to find the right person for the job.  The policy change will be made, adding Section 4a through 4h, of the proposed changes to the policy, except that Section 4c, is not to be included.  The Policy will be reviewed and voted upon at the next meeting.

Discussion:  Discussion was held regarding Graduation and other spring activities.  In a survey completed by students, the first choice for prom and graduation are June 26 and 28, respectively, and the second choice is July 3 and 5.  Social distancing and other requirements by the Governor and the Health Districts will be followed.  The events may be held outdoors.  Mrs. Morgan reported that the After Prom committee is planning to hold the after prom celebration.  The Athletic boosters are planning some type of recognition for students athletes, but a different format than the usual banquet will likely be necessary.  

Discussion:  In the Principals Report, Mrs. Paider stated that the new elementary reading program will not be available this fall, as was hoped.
All students will turn in chromebooks, pay fees, and retrieve necessary items from school, next week.    

Discussion:  The Building Committee reported that cement has been poured at the WAC, drainage work is completed, and lines will be painted this summer at the WAC parking lot.  Elementary roofing is in progress.  The maintenance staff is busy with projects that are usually completed in the summer.  The entire school is being carefully disinfected.

 

Discussion:  Superintendent Poppert reported that the school is to receive $66,000.00 in CARES money, which must be used for specific purposes related to the pandemic.

Discussion:  The Board calendar was reviewed.

Discussion:  The meeting adjourned at 10:19p.m.