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The Baxter Springs board of education held a special board meeting on Thursday, April 28, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Joseph Skye, Chuck Sweeton and Josh Sweaney (via telephone). Members absent were: Brandon Williams and Dusty Deringer. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Kenneth Boeckman, Lincoln Principal and Cory White, HS Principal.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 5:31 p.m,
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 5-0.
David Pendergraft presented the following resignations for approval:
Jennifer Hancock – Elementary Music
Brooke Richey – HS FACS Teacher, FCCLA Sponsor & Junior Class Sponsor
Sam Ames – HS Musical Director
Christine Yeargain – HS Dance Team Coach
Nikki Williams – Junior Class Sponsor
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the resignations as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent David Pendergraft recommended hiring Cory White as HS Head Girls Basketball Coach for 2016-17. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to hire Cory White as HS Head Girls Basketball Coach for 2016-17. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 7-0.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adjourn. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 5-0.
5:35 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, April 11, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: Joseph Skye, Dusty Deringer, DeAnne Binns and Chuck Sweeton. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney, Brandon Williams and Mary Kirkpatrick. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Ross Davis, Technology Director, Cory White, HS Principal, Roger Reynolds, HS Asst. Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Sharon Cannon, teacher, Lynn Grant, Kansas Senate Candidate, Daryl Eagon, CPA-Diehl, Banwort and Bolton, Rev. Jake Stivers, of Crossroads Church, Holly Morris of Opaa! and Larry Cannon, teacher.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Dusty Deringer led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Rev. Jake Stivers led the board and guests in a word of prayer.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 4-0.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included the approval of payment of bills, approval of the minutes of the March 7th, 2016 meeting and the treasurer’s report. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 4-0.
Sharon Cannon, teacher at Central School addressed the board to express her appreciation for the opportunity to teach 20 years in our district as she is retiring at the end of the 2015-16 school year.
Dusty Deringer introduced Lynn Grant, a Democratic Kansas Senate Candidate for District 13. Mrs. Grant addressed the board and expressed her support for public education as a Senate candidate.
Daryl Eagon, CPA of Diehl, Banwort and Bolton presented the FY15 audit report. Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the audit report as presented. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 4-0.
President Binns expressed her appreciation to the board and staff for their support during the recent loss of her mother.
Superintendent Pendergraft gave a legislative update to the board regarding school finance. The legislature has passed the new school funding bill and it has been sent to the Kansas Supreme Court to review. The Supreme Court will give their opinion by May 10. He also reported that EMC will be issuing a check in the amount of $60,339 for flood damage to the HS track.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported that we have received an offer on property that we have listed with Farmers National Company north of the high school. The offer received is for $1515.00 per acre for approximately 26.4 acres north of the High School, with the sale being contingent upon the buyer closing on adjoining property to the east.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the $1515.00 per acre for the approximate 26.4 acres of land north of the high school and to give authority to David Pendergraft to sign all necessary paperwork for the sale of this property. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 4-0.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal reported that some of the students have gone to the Amazeum in Arkansas, with the rest of them going in the near future. He reported that it was a great field trip and expressed appreciation to the Lee Scott family for giving our students this opportunity. Mr. Boeckman also reported that training for the Zoophonics program will begin this next week and all teachers from Pre-K through 2nd grade will be trained. He also reported that he has checked on the insurance issue on the therapy dog that the board asked him to report back on. The teacher will secure a separate insurance on the dog and the district will be named on the policy as well. Dusty Deringer made a motion to allow the therapy dog to be used at Lincoln School with all expenses including insurance to be provided by the teacher who owns the dog. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 4-0. It was the consensus of the board that the teacher must provide a copy of the insurance to the district before the therapy dog is placed at Lincoln School and that periodic checks be made to ensure that the insurance is still in place.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported that the 6th grade music class recently went to NEO and did a great job. He also reported that the focus group meetings have been held and those went really well. Mr. Womack also reported that State assessment testing is underway. He reported that Central School students will be going to the Amazeum on April 27.
Holly Morris from Opaa! reported on the focus group meetings. She reported that the meetings have been very informative with students giving their likes and dislikes. She reported that there will be changes in the menus coming at Central and Lincoln. Focus group meetings with the High School and Middle School will be held at the end of this week or next week due to a food service audit this week
Jason Walker, MS Principal reported that a fiber had been cut at KU so they have been struggling with assessment testing. He also reported that a STUCO dance was held on April 1 and it went very well. He expressed appreciation to Lori Kellum and Stephanie Dewey for all their hard work and the STUCO members. He also reported that the choir went to NEO and received a I rating. Mr. Walker also reported that MS track season is off to a fast start. Our home meet will be held Thursday and Mr. Walker expressed his appreciation to staff members throughout the district who step up and volunteer their time to help host this meet. He stated that without everyone volunteering their time to help, it would be impossible to host a meet and he wanted to express his gratitude.
Cory White, HS Principal reported that the CNC Music Festival which was held recently went really well. He expressed his appreciation to Mrs. Locke and Mr. Morgan for their help. He also reported that recent music contests at Pitt State went well with many kids placing. Mr. White reported that KDOT recently held a couple of assemblies at the high school with area students being invited to attend. One of the events included an impaired driving simulation on the HS parking lot with School Resource Officer Comer. He also reported that Baseball, softball and track seasons are going great. Currently our baseball team is 7-0, and softball is 7-1. Softball regionals will be hosted here this year. Mr. White reported that ACT test prep was held this past week. He also reported that the Welding program is a go for our students and that there will possibly be a cosmetology program at a neighboring school that our students can take advantage of. Mr. White reported that state assessments will be given the last week in April; this Saturday is prom and May 14 is graduation.
Ross Davis, Technology Director reported that the technology for assessments was working on our end of things, it was the fiber cut at KU that was causing the problem for administering the State assessment tests. He also reported that Tonya Burggraff is helping at Central with technology and is doing an amazing job.
Mr. Davis also reported on the Necessities Closet that was recently set up to help students with basic needs. Phase I has been initiated with a generous donation by the Kiwanis Club. Counselors, secretaries and physical education teachers have been a great asset to this program in helping to get students needs met. We are now in the process of moving to Phase 2 which will be assisting students with clothing needs.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the publics interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This executive session is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 4-0.
7:39 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:49 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the publics interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 5 minute period of time. This executive session is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 4-0.
7:50 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:55 p.m. Resume regular session.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the publics interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This executive session is to include the board, Superintendent and Cory White. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 4-0.
7:56 p.m. Enter executive session.
8:06 p.m. Resume regular session.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to adjourn. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 4-0
Meeting adjourned. 8:10 p.m.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne BInns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, March 7, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: Joseph Skye, Dusty Deringer, DeAnne Binns, Josh Sweaney, Chuck Sweeton, Brandon Williams and Mary Kirkpatrick. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Roger Reynolds, HS Asst. Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Daymon McCorkle, Bert Kellum of Kingrey-Kellum Agency, Cyndi Sutterby, Director of Nutrition Services Director, Steve Adams, State Representative for Opaa!, Linda Jones, Director of Nutrition Outreach for Opaa! and Holly Morris, Regional Director of Operations for Opaa!
President BInns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adopt the agenda as printed. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included payment of bills, approval of minutes of February 8, 2016 meeting and approval of the treasurer’s report. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.
Opaa! Food Service Management employees, Steve Adams, Linda Jones, Holly Morris and Cyndi Sutterby discussed the food service program with the board. After a lengthy discussion, Chuck Sweeton made a motion to form a committee comprised of board members, administration and Opaa! to meet and work together to find solutions to the problems discussed. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
President Binns reported on a board planning session with the date and place to be determined.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented resignations from Sharon Cannon as elementary teacher, Kris Crotts as Head Girls Basketball Coach, Jennifer Hancock, as HS Musical Choreographer, Casey Davidson as HS Custodian and Roger Reynolds as HS Athletic Director. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 7-0.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal presented a proposal for the possibility to add the use of a therapy dog at Lincoln. Questions arose from the board about the liability issue in having a therapy dog in the building.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to table the proposal on obtaining a therapy dog until the liability insurance issue is resolved. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
Robert Womack, Central Principal, reported on a recent PTO sponsored basketball game which was held at the high school. This event raised approximately $3,000 and was well received by the community. He also reported on the annual 4th grade wax museum which was recently held at Central. This year the museum was expanded from Kansas figures to include the entire United States. Mr. Womack also reported that a tornado drill was held today and that because of the tornadoes in recent years in our area, he always explains to the students ahead of time that this is only a drill. He also reported on state assessment testing. One of the board members asked Mr. Womack about designated parking for teachers at Central. Mr. Womack informed the board that he had been told in the past that when they repave the high school parking lot, that the teacher parking area north of Central School would be paved at that time as well.
Jason Walker, MS Principal reported on assessment testing in his building. He also reported that MS track practice began today, with 60 students participating.
Roger Reynolds, HS Assistant Principal reported on Career Day which was held today at the High School. He extended his appreciation to Jami Thiessen for organizing this event. He also extended his appreciation to board members, Josh Sweaney, Dusty Deringer and Mary Kirkpatrick for their participation in this event.
Mr. Reynolds also reported that Principal Cory White was at the Lions Club Senior Honors Banquet tonight in which the various departments recognize outstanding Senior students. He also reported on; state assessment testing; blood drive to be held March 24; and a workshop for students and teachers for the ACT test. He extended his congratulations to the HS Jazz Band for receiving a II rating at the recent jazz festival which was held at PSU. He commended Mr. Morgan and the jazz band for their performances at the sub-state basketball games and has received many compliments on the jazz band. Mr. Reynolds also extended congratulations to both the girls and boys basketball teams for a great season and extended his appreciation to everyone who assisted with the Sub-State Basketball tournament.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director reported that two students have met their requirements for graduation since Christmas and he extended his congratulations to them. He also reported that the FY16 virtual school audit is complete, with only a couple of minor issues that need to be corrected. Mr. Roberts also reported that virtual students are also required to take the state assessment tests and they are preparing for that testing.
Superintendent Pendergraft informed the board that Art Roberts has been chosen as one of five Virtual Program Directors across the state to speak at the Virtual School Conference in Wichita. The board extended their congratulations to Mr. Roberts.
Daymon McCorkle, Director of Maintenance, reported that since it is storm season, all of the key holders to the shelters have been contacted and procedures have been gone over with them. As a reminder, he stated that the shelters will be open to the public only in the event of a tornado warning. He reported that after the flooding at the HS track, there was damage to the track and a claim has been filed.
Bert Kellum of Kingrey-Kellum Agency, met with the board to bring them up to date on where we are on the claim for the HS track. He reported on meetings with the adjuster and with Daymon McCorkle. He is waiting on a determination from the insurance company,
Cory White arrived from Lions Club Banquet and was present for the remainder of the meeting.
Brandon Williams made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 30 minute period of time. This session is to include the board only for the first part of the session and then they will invite the Superintendent in for the rest of the session. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:46 p.m. Enter executive session.
8:16 p.m. Resume regular session
Dusty Deringer made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session is to include the board and Superintendent. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
8:16 p.m. Enter executive session.
8:26 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session is to include the board and Superintendent. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
8:26 pm. Enter executive session.
8:36 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to extend the Superintendent and Building Principals contracts for one year making the Superintendents contract through FY2019 and the principals contracts through FY18. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 7-0.
Cory White, HS Principal made a recommendation to hire Chris Swartz for HS Technology Education. Dusty Deringer made a motion to accept the recommendation of Cory White to hire Chris Swartz as HS Technology Education teacher for the 2016-17 school year. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a motion to assign Chris Swartz as HS Athletic Director for the 2016-17 school year. Joseph Skye made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to hire Chris Swartz as HS Athletic Director for the 2016-17 school year. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Josh Sweaney seconded Carried 7-0.
8:48 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The board of education of USD#508 held a regular board meeting on Monday, February 8, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: Mary Kirkpatrick, Brandon Williams, Chuck Sweeton, DeAnne Binns, Joseph Skye, Josh Sweaney and Dusty Deringer. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Gene Nelson, Elementary Guidance Counselor, Lori Kellum, MS Guidance Counselor, Shelly Bottorff, HS Guidance Counselor, Charles Rector, teacher, and coach, HS students Libby Thomasson, Kenny Herrenbruck and Narciso Ortiz.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes of the January 11 and January 25 meetings, and approval of the treasurer’s report. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 7-0.
Charles Rector expressed his appreciation to the board, Mr. White and Mr. Reynolds for their support of the power lifting program. Libby Thomasson, Kenny Herrenbruck and Narciso Ortiz showed their trophies to the board. Mr. Rector thanked the students for their hard work in this program and expressed his pride in their accomplishments.
Shelly Bottorff, HS Counselor along with Lori Kellum, MS Counselor and Gene Nelson, Elementary Counselor, gave a presentation on Career Cruising which is a software program to assist students in career choices throughout their K-12 school experience. This program will allow students, parents and educators to all be involved in helping the student to pursue their career choice.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to approve purchasing and implementing the Career Cruising program for grades K-12 as soon as possible. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
President Binns reported on the Superintendent evaluation. The board will complete the evaluation and conduct the evaluation at the March meeting.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on a recent trip to Topeka, along with Dusty Deringer, to visit with legislators and to attend the hearing on HB2504, commonly known as the consolidation bill. Due to concerns of business people, economic staff developers, patrons and others, this bill will not proceed in this session. Mr. Pendergraft informed the board that Kansas had 305 school districts that have voluntarily consolidated down to 286 districts and feels that others will continue to do so as their needs and demographics change.
President BInns presented resignations from Chuck Zordel as teacher and Amber Marrett as 7th grade Volleyball coach. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignations of Chuck Zordel and Amber Marrett as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a school calendar for the 2016-17 school year for approval. The staff were given three calendars to choose from and the proposed calendar was the one that the majority voted for. After much discussion, the board decided to make a change in the calendar.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to adopt the 2016-17 calendar with the following change: staff and students will attend school on October 28 and October 31, and Thanksgiving break will be for the entire week of November 21-25. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal informed the board that he and his staff are working on implementing programs to help increase reading fluency and comprehension in his building. He also reported that headphones will be added to the student supply list for the coming school year.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported on the iStation reading program. He also reported that students and staff celebrated Kansas Day last Friday with sunflower cupcakes provided by Opaa! and a program about Kansas which was put on by the 3rd grade classes and one 5th grade class. Mrs. Hancock was in charge of this program about Kansas history which was very informative and entertaining. Mr. Womack also reported that one bicycle rack has been moved to the west side of the street and all students who live on the west side of the street will park their bikes there, while students who live on the east side will continue to park their bikes on the east side. This alleviates any child having to cross the street on their bicycle. He also informed the board that they honored Mr. Gene Nelson, Elementary Guidance Counselor for National Counselor Appreciation Day.
Jason Walker, MS Principal, reported on local contest for students. One of the contest is the Peace Poster contest sponsored by the Lions Club. He reported that one student has placed in that contest and will be recognized for accomplishment. Mr. Walker reported that on Thursday, the MS teachers and students will be preparing for state assessments with the first test being the multi disciplinary performance task. He also reported that basketball season is complete. He was very pleased with the season and reported that the students had improved. The 7A Boys team had a record of 11-3 and placed 2nd in the league, 7A Girls team had a 7-7 record. 8A Boys had a record of 8-6 and 8A Girls had a record of 10-4 and placed 2nd in the league. Mr. Walker expressed his pride in the coaches and students for a great season. He also reported that the MS celebration National Guidance Counselor day by honoring Ms. Lori Kellum.
Cory White, HS Principal, reported that the HS also celebrated National Counselor Appreciation Day by honoring Shelly Bottorff and expressed his appreciation for all she does. Mr. White reported that on February 1, seven Seniors received KU honors. Those students were: Brennan Cummings, Justin Jones, Brennan Kipp, Mallory Maryman, Kayla Spence, David Street and Hanna White. He also reported that on staff development day, the HS and MS staff went through the ALICE intruder training and feel like they have a good solid plan in place. He reported that Mr. Reynolds was at Pittsburg for the Freshman basketball tournament at Colgan this week. Mr. White also reported that the boys and girls basketball teams took 3rd place at the Southeast classic. He also reported that he will have some changes for the HS handbook to present to the board at a later date. Mr. White presented a new program for the boards consideration. He presented the possibility of Senior students being able to take dual credit courses from Labette Community College and perhaps some other schools if that is possible. After much discussion, the board directed Mr. White to work out the requirements that each student would have to meet in order to qualify for eligibility to take these classes.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to move forward with the dual credit program as presented. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 7-0.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, reported that the virtual audit is coming up next week. Anne Taylor will take a group to NEO Wednesday to tour the campus and available programs.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract and that we return to open session in this room after a 5 minute period of time. This session is to include the board and Superintendent. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
8:05 p.m. Enter executive session.
8:10 p.m. Resume regular session.
Chuck Sweeton left the meeting.
Comments and concerns from the board included obtaining data for the ACT and achievement tests, developing strategies and measurements for curriculum K-12, having a planning session for the board and administration to set goals and aligning our programs to meet those goals.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to adjourn. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
8:47 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The board of education of USD#508 held a special meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 25, 2016 at 1108 Military. Members present were: Joseph Skye, Mary Kirkpatrick, Dusty Deringer, DeAnne Binns and Josh Sweaney. Members absent were: Brandon Williams and Chuck Sweeton. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent and Vicki Bradley, Clerk.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 5-0.
President Binns presented a resolution opposing Representative Bradfords proposed legislation to reduce the total number of school districts in Kansas from 286 to 132 for consideration.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to adopt a resolution opposing Representative Bradfords proposed legislation to reduce the total number of school districts in Kansas from 286 to 132. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to adjourn. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
Meeting adjourned: 6:15 p.m.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The board of education of USD#508 held a regular meeting on Monday, January 11, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne BInns, Joseph Skye, Brandon Williams, Dusty Deringer, (via telephone) and Josh Sweaney. Absent were: Mary Kirkpatrick and Chuck Sweeton. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Roger Reynolds, HS Asst. Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Arthur Commons, Secondary Curriculum DIrector, Daymon McCorkle, Grounds and Maintenance Director and Rev. Tracy Rowe of Crossroads Christian Church.
President BInns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance. Rev. Tracy Rowe led the board and guests in a word of prayer.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adopt the agenda as printed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of payment of the bills, approval of the minutes of the December 14, 2015 meeting and approval of the treasurer’s report. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 5-0.
President Binns presented resignations from Tyler Lane as MS Head Football Coach and Brenda Locke as HS Musical Director. Joseph Skye made a motion to accept the resignations of Tyler Lane as MS Head Football Coach and Brenda Locke as HS Musical Director as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a proposal to lower the mileage reimbursement rate to 54 cents to be in line with the state reimbursement rate for the remainder of the 15-16 fiscal year. Brandon Williams made a motion to decrease the mileage reimbursement rate to 54 cents per mile to match the state reimbursement rate for the remainder of the 15-16 fiscal year. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended that the board grant a permanent easement to the Peters family for access to property that adjoins the HS property. This easement is at the north end of the high school property and the City also has a permanent easement on this same piece of property to access their lift station. Brandon Williams made a motion to grant a permanent easement to the Peters family at the north end of the HS property as requested. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln School Principal reported on the inservice day which was held on January 4. His staff worked on team building activities and communication with Greenbush. At the January 18th inservice, they will focus on iStation training and MTSS, along with classroom management and behavior reward systems.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported on the January 4 inservice day. He reported that the Sheriff’s Department conducted a training to prepare teachers and staff for an intruder situation. He also reported that next weeks inservice will include behavior intervention training.
Cory White, HS Principal reported on the inservice day on January 4. Mr. White said that the HS has initiated a writing initiative for the 2nd semester so that students have purposeful writing skills throughout all classes. He also congratulated the Scholars Bowl team for placing 2nd at Frontenac. Mr. White also reported that on January 18th , the HS and MS staff will be going through the same intruder training that Central did this past week. He also reported that the Lancer Classic basketball tournament will be next week.
Daymon McCorkle, Grounds and Maintenance Director reported on new fencing at Field of Dreams. He also reported that the company is coming this week to look at the track to assess for damage caused by the flood and that he will begin evaluating all custodial and maintenance staff this week.
Arthur Commons, Secondary Curriculum Director updated the board on some of the changes that were put into place at the beginning of the 2015-16 school year. He reported that great improvement has been made in 7th, 8th and 9th grade students in math with the addition of the math lab class. He also reported on the writing initiative that is being instituted at the HS for the second semester and how teachers are excited about the improvement seen in this area. Mr. Commons reported that they have been assessing the science curriculum and have found that there is a need for earth and space science at the HS level. Moving forward they will begin to cover this in freshman science classes. The will expect all students to take 9th grade physical science, biology at 10th grade and will strongly suggest that chemistry be taken in junior year. He also reported that the curriculum alignment process will begin on some non-core subjects next year. Mr. Commons reported that grades 7-12 are on target and in January 2017 he will present curriculum alignment for board approval and release to the public. He thanked the board for their support in getting the curriculum aligned and the support of the administrators.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy rights of the individuals to be discussed and in order to protect the publics interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract, and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session shall include the board and Superintendent. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:29 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:39 p.m. Resume regular session.
Brandon Williams made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy rights of the individuals to be discussed and in order to protect the publics interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract, and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session shall include the board and Superintendent. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:40 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:50 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations in order to protect the privacy rights of the individuals to be discussed and in order to protect the publics interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract, and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session shall include the board and Superintendent. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:51 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:01 p.m. Resume regular session.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Dusty Deringer seconded Carried 5-0.
7:03 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, December 14, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Joseph Skye, Brandon Williams, Chuck Sweeton, Dusty Deringer and Josh Sweaney. Members absent were: Mary Kirkpatrick. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Ross Davis, Technology Director and Courtney Buck, Technology Department.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, minutes of the November 9, 2015 meeting and approval of the treasurer’s report. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
Ross Davis, Technology Director presented a request to establish a Necessities Closet to be located at the High School building for students in grades 7-12. It was the consensus of the board to allow Mr. Davis to proceed with establishing the Necessities Closet as presented.
Superintendent Pendergraft expressed his appreciation to the Kiwanis Club for their recent donation of $5,000 to purchase iPads to be used at Lincoln School in the after school program. He also reported on the recent trip to Williamsburg and commended the students who were on that trip.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, also expressed his appreciation to the Kiwanis Club for not only their recent donation, but for coming to school and reading to students and other projects they assist with. He also presented plans to change the grading system at Lincoln School for 1st and 2nd grades. They will be changing to a traditional grading system. Information will be sent home to the parents with the grade cards as semester on the grading change.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported on a very successful Christmas program and commended the students and Mrs. Hancock for a great job. He also reported that this Thursday will be Christmas movie day for all students, and that upon return from Christmas vacation, the teachers will be having an in-service day. Mr. Womack also reported that beginning in the 2016-17 school year, Central will be going to self-contained classrooms instead of departmentalized classrooms.
Cory White, HS Principal reported on the recent Hometown Heroes banquet, blood drive, and National Honor Society induction ceremony. Mr. White reported that the Christmas concert for band and choir is tonight. He also reported that basketball season is underway with the last game before Christmas break being tomorrow night. Mr. White reported that we had five football players receive CNC honors. They are as follows:
Doug Dardenne; 2nd team running back, honorable mention defense.
Matt Miles; 2nd team offensive line.
Narciso Ortiz; 2nd team linebacker
Jarret Dotson; honorable mention defense.
AJ Himes; honorable mention offense.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director reported that two classes have been changed out in the Virtual Education program. Classes that were removed from the curriculum were Trigonometry and Survey of World History. Classes added were Algebra II and Introduction to Technology. He also reported that one adult has recently completed all requirements for graduation and has received a diploma. Mr. Roberts also reported that he has received a KSDE draft of a diploma completion program to review and comment on and informed the board that the virtual program will be monitored again this year by KSDE.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and to have preliminary discussions about the acquisition of real property in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in obtaining the property at a fair price, and that we return to open session in this room after a 15 minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:03 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:18 p.m. Resume regular session.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and to have preliminary discussions about the acquisition of real property in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in obtaining the property at a fair price, and that we return to open session in this room after a 15 minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:19 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:34 p.m. Resume regular session.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and to have preliminary discussions about the acquisition of real property in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in obtaining the property at a fair price, and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:35 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:45 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel and to have preliminary discussions about the acquisition of real property in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to protect the public interest in obtaining the property at a fair price, and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:46 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:56 p.m. Resume regular session.
Comments and concerns from the board included replacing ceiling tiles in the HS commons area and the school resource officer duties.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to adjourn. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:59 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne BInns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, November 9, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne BInns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Dusty Deringer,(via phone) Joseph Skye, Chuck Sweeton, Josh Sweaney and Brandon Williams (6:19 p.m.) Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Roger Reynolds, HS Asst. Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director and Susan Gant.
President BInns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Joseph Skye led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of the minutes of the October 12, 2015 meeting and approval of the treasurer’s report. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on the upcoming KASB annual convention in December. He also reported on a meeting today with KDOT officials, Senator Jake LaTurner, and Mayor Randy Trease regarding a stop light at the entrance of the High School. Mr. Pendergraft also discussed class scheduling at the high school.
Brandon Williams arrived at 6:19 p.m. and was present for the remainder of the meeting.
Robert Womack, Central Principal, reported that PTO paid for the students to go to a movie right before fall break and he expressed his appreciation to them for that event. He also reported that PTO is sponsoring a Read-Athon which is going on now. Mr. Womack also reported that Central will be celebrating Veterans Day on Tuesday, at which time Veterans from the VFW will distribute flags and pencils to the students and talk about Veterans Day. He also reported that November 24 will be the annual book character day and invited board members to attend. The Central students will also be attending the High School play next week and the MS play the week after.
Jason Walker, MS Principal reported on the rewards program for students in the spring. Mr. Walker reported that November 24 will be a rewards day for 8th graders who earned the reward based on attendance, discipline, academics, and assessment data during their 7th grade year. Mr. Walker also reported that 52 students recently attended the Ft. Scott Community College construction week and this was a great experience for these students. He also reported that 64% of 7th grade parents and 52% of 8th grade parents attended parent/teacher conferences which were recently held at the Middle School.
Cory White, HS Principal, reported that Mrs. Bottorff recently put together a college fair that was held on October 27 and it was a great success. All BHS students attended the fair as well as Juniors and Seniors from area high schools. Mr. White reported that the fall concert was recently held and students did an excellent job. A pie and cake auction was held to benefit these students and it was a great success. Mr. White also reported that the National Honor Society students attended Special Olympics bowling and got a chance to give back to other students. He also reported on the scholars bowl tournament which was held last week. Upcoming events at the high school include the HS Play next week, with a Veterans salute on Thursday of that week with a dinner at 6:00, followed by the play and our annual Hometown Hero’s dinner will be held on November 20, 2015.
Roger Reynolds reported that BHS has several athletes who have been recognized. They are as follows: Garrett Gant went to State in Cross Country as a Sophomore and did well; HS volleyball girls placed 2nd in CNC league; Volleyball CNC honors were 1st team - Riley Abernathy; 2nd Team - Bailey Bush and Hannah White ; Honorable Mention – Cheyenne VonMoss. Mr. Reynolds also reported that the Fall sports ceremony will be held on November 16 at 7:00 pm at the HS and November 16 will also be the first day of basketball practice.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director reported that they are updating some of the offerings at the Soda Fountain to coincide with HS classes. Some of the changes include adding Algebra II, beefing up elective courses and some computer classes.
Susan Gant informed the board that the Williamsburg meeting will be held this Friday at 5 Mile camp and she invited board members to attend. The meeting will be from 9:00 am – 2:30 pm.
The board discussed purchasing property at 535 E. 10th Street, which is adjacent to the Larson property that was donated to us. The cost of the property is back taxes plus the closing costs and fees associated with purchasing property for a total cost of $2740.47. Brandon Williams made a motion to purchase .9 acres at 535 E. 10th Street, for a total price of $2740.47. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 7-0.
During comments and concerns from the board, Mary Kirkpatrick informed the board that her grand-daughter is graduating from High School this semester in New Zealand. She attended Baxter Springs school while they lived in the States and was very well prepared academically for school in New Zealand. After graduation, she will attend Auckland University. Mary wanted to inform the board that Baxter Springs should be proud of our school system as our students are prepared to compete even in international schools. The board also discussed budget issues and funding and the possibility of charging tuition to out of state students in the future depending upon what the legislature decides to do concerning school financing.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:02 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, October 12, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Joseph Skye, Chuck Sweeton, Dusty Deringer, Brandon Williams and Josh Sweaney (6:07 p.m.) Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Coordinator, Daymon McCorkle, Director of Maintenance and Pastor Jeff Street of 1st Baptist Church.
President BInns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance. Pastor Jeff Street led the board and guests in a word of prayer.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included payment of bills, approval of minutes of September 14, 2015 meeting and approval of the treasurer’s report. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
President BInns reported on the Homecoming activities at BHS and the 70’s Reunion which was a huge success. She also commended Superintendent Pendergraft for welcoming the classes of 1970 – 1979 and interacting with the alumni at this reunion. She also expressed her appreciation to Opaa! for supplying the food for the brunch for the class reunion.
Josh arrived at 6:07 and was present for the remainder of the meeting.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported that the Lee Scott family will pay to send our K-6 students to the Scott Family Amazeum in Arkansas. These field trips will take place in the spring and are being funded entirely by the Lee Scott family. He expressed his appreciation to the Lee Scott family for their generosity. He also reported on the easement to the property located behind the Baxter High School property.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal reported on the new schedule at Lincoln School and reported that it is working very well. He also reported that he had met recently with the Kansas State Department of Education to discuss after school programs and improving literacy scores. He also reported that Lincoln is giving prizes and incentives to classes for such things as having the cleanest classroom or being the best behaved class at lunch, etc. to instill the need for teamwork among students.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported that tomorrow Central School will be participating in the Livin’ Life Tour hosted by KOAM TV. This program is a multi-media program that helps students to develop good decision making skills and helps them to make the right choices in life. He also reported that Central will host a book fair next week. Mr. Womack also reported that Red Ribbon week which is for bully awareness and drug prevention will be held the last week in November.
Cory White, HS Principal reported on regional girls golf and expressed appreciation from the girls and the coaches for this program. He also reported that volleyball sub-state will be held at Girard and regional cross-country will be held at Garnett. Mr. White also reported that HS Students assisted in the community wide clean up a couple of weeks ago and he has received lots of positive feedback from the community on this. He also reported that Homecoming went well and was well attended. He also extended his appreciation to the HS staff for recognizing students for “extra’s that they do. They recognize students at an assembly every month for these things. He also reported that the High School will be participating tomorrow in the Livin’ Life Tour as well. The ACT workshop will be at Galena this year and several students are attending this which will help them to prepare for the ACT test.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Coordinator, reported that Parent/Teacher conferences are coming up. He recently attended a webinar on the annual review of the virtual program. The state is working on a model to conduct the review every three years, instead of annually. Mr. Roberts said that the Soda Fountain has visitors stop in from around the world as they travel Route 66 and several were in town last week and were commenting on all the signs around town for Homecoming. He also said he had to explain what homecoming is to several foreign visitors and they were all impressed with the celebration.
Daymon McCorkle, Director of Grounds and Maintenance, reported on roofing projects at HS and Central. He reported that the wireless connection has been completed between downtown buildings at Keystone and the Archer pre-school. He reported that the lawns have been seeded and this should be the last time in order to get the seed to take and fill in. Daymon reported that the HS parking lot needs to be resurfaced. His crew is busy trying to fill in chuck holes and cracks before winter and he talked about resealing the middle school parking lot as well. His crews are busy winterizing the ball parks and other projects getting ready for winter.
Brandon Williams made a motion to enter into executive session to have preliminary discussions about the acquisition of real property in order to protect the public interest in obtaining the property at a fair price and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session is to include the board and the Superintendent. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:36 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:46 p.m. Resume regular session.
In comments and concerns, the board discussed softball uniforms and uniform rotation.
Brandon WIlliams made a motion to adjourn. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:55 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, September 14, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne BInns, Joseph Skye, Dusty Deringer, Chuck Sweeton, Mary Kirkpatrick and Josh Sweaney (6:23 p.m.) Members absent were: Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Robert Womack, Central Principal, Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Art Roberts Alternative Learning Director and Ashley Bingham, teacher.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Joseph Skye led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adopt the agenda. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included payment of bills with the correcting of appropriate budget line items on the US Cellular bill for maintenance and board office expense, approval of treasurer’s report and approval of the minutes of the August 10, 2015 and August 17, 2015 meetings. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft introduced Ashley Bingham as USD#508’s Kansas Teacher of the Year (KTOY) representative for 2015-16. Ashley Bingham reported on her experience representing Baxter Springs as our KTOY representative in Topeka this past weekend.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented the 2015-16 Classified Handbook for approval, noting the recommended changes. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the classified handbook as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft discussed the waste disposal contract with the board.
Josh Sweaney arrived at 6:23 p.m. and was present for the remainder of the meeting.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on traffic assessments at the buildings, land easement on the access road north of HS, and ESI regulations and policies. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the ESI regulations and policies as board policy GAAF. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 6-0.
Ken Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, reported on grandparents day and expressed his appreciation to Opaa! and the HS for their assistance in helping to make this event a success. He also reported on MTSS at the K-2 level.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported on Ashley Bingham as the KTOY representative and expressed his pride in the teaching staff in USD#508. He also reported on testing scores and what those measurements will mean for the district.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director reported on progress of the virtual students. He reported that we have been adding adults almost everyday and several students are beginning to prepare for the ACT test.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and that we return to open session in this room after a five minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board and Superintendent. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:15 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:20 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Nikki Williams as the Junior Class sponsor for 2015-16. Joseph Skye made a motion to accept the recommendation of Superintendent Pendergraft to hire Nikki Williams as the Junior Class Sponsor for 2015-16. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Christine Yeargain as the HS dance coach for 2015-16. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation of Superintendent Pendergraft to hire Christine Yeargain as the HS dance coach for 2015-16. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 6-0.
In comments and concerns of the board, the board discussed an upcoming board member workshop at Greenbush and a schedule of basketball practices for the upcoming season.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adjourn. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:30 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley DeAnne Binns
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education