May 16, 2016 at 7:00 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting

Discussion:  The meeting was called to order at 7:01 p.m.

Discussion:  Mr. Brown provided information regarding the 1:1 program and the work of the technology committee to date. The committee has been in the process of exploring other devices and tablets including but not limited to the iPad and chrome books. Mr. Brown discussed the student management system options and the capabilities of each product. Integration of STEM courses and curriculum for 21st century skills will continue to need support. One benefit of technology is that it can extend the school day for our students. Chrome books appear to be manageable and affordable while meeting district goals. The Board thanked Mr. Brown for presenting information regarding technology.

Discussion:  Board member Steward asked about the Voice news ads. Mrs. Walter explained that those ads were for pre-school and kindergarten roundup. The Board was informed that the sump pump in the Pre-K building was replaced with equipment from Menards.

Discussion:  Board members reviewed financial information regarding claims and account balances. The Board reviewed the maintenance of school buses and the cost of recent repairs. Board member Steward asked about the Building Fund and Superintendent Hanger surmised that the claims were the result of payments to Olsson and Associates and Lancaster County as previously approved by the Board.

Discussion:  Building administrators provided information for the Board of Education.

Discussion:  Superintendent Hanger presented an offer for mowing the North property to the Board. In order to provide adequate entrance space to the property the FFA has offered to install a simple wire fence. Mr. Hanger also asked if the Board would allow mowing of the perimeter again in the Fall to allow the cross country team to use the area to practice. The Board approved mowing the North property and the installation of a gate on the West side to allow equipment to enter the site as well as subsequent mowing in the Fall.

Discussion:  The Board established committee meeting dates as June 20th for the Building Committee and June 23 for the Finance Committee. Both meetings will begin at 5:00 p.m.

Discussion:  Superintendent Hanger reported that personnel from Clark Enersen, Mr. Hanger and Board member Steward attend the Village of Palmyra Board meeting to present information and update the Village regarding utilities work for the upcoming construction project and to also request that the Village waive the building permit fee. The Village agreed to the proposals as submitted by Clark Enersen on behalf of the school district. Board member Steward asked if the cost for these utilities would come out of the Building or the Bond fund and Mr. Hanger replied either would be acceptable pending the results of bidding on the Palmyra project.

Discussion:  Board member Calfee asked if the Board would schedule a retreat during the upcoming June or July time frame. Mr. Hanger replied that we would try to schedule a Board retreat in July.

Discussion:  The Board agreed to meet the first Monday of each month for the purpose of receiving construction updates and approving claims.

Discussion:  The meeting was duly adjourned at 8:34 p.m. May 16, 2016.