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
The Baxter Springs board of education held a special meeting on Monday, August 17, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Brandon Williams, Mary Kirkpatrick, Dusty Deringer, Joseph Skye and Josh Sweaney. Members absent were: Chuck Sweeton. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent and Vicki Bradley, Clerk.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
President BInns opened the budget hearing. There were no patrons present for the hearing.
Superintendent Pendergraft read a budget resolution for the board to adopt as part of the budget as required by statute.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adopt the 2015-16 budget by resolution as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Roll call vote was: Joseph Skye, yea; Mary Kirkpatrick, yea; Dusty Deringer, yea; DeAnne Binns, yea; Brandon Williams, yea; and Josh Sweaney, yea. Motion carried 6-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:03 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley, Clerk/Board of Education
DeAnne Binns, President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, August 10, 2015 at 6:00 pm at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Chuck Sweeton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Brandon Williams, and Dusty Deringer and Joseph Skye (via telephone.). Members absent were: Josh Sweaney. 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, Kenneth Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, Arthur Commons, Secondary Curriculum Director, and Rev. Cody Graves, First 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. Cody Graves led the board and guests in a word of prayer.
Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of the minutes of the July 13th and July 30th, 2015 meetings as printed and approval of the treasurer’s report as presented. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft introduced new employees for 2015-16 to the board. They were as follows:
Tammi Porter, MS English, Jared Miller, Computer Technician, and Cody Spencer, HS Social Studies.
President Binns presented resignations from Nancy Daniels for Jr. Class Sponsor and Kelsey Ng, as HS Dance coach. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on student accident insurance and wants to evaluate it later in the year to see if this is a cost that the district wishes to continue. After much discussion about the budget and the cost savings by not carrying this secondary student insurance policy, Brandon Williams made a motion to cancel the current student insurance policy to be effective immediately. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 6-0.
Kenneth Boeckman, Lincoln Principal, informed the board that he has been at several districts and he was very impressed with our enrollment process. He also reported that all of the Pre-school slots are filled. Preliminary enrollment figures look like Lincoln may be up just a little. Mr. Boeckman also reported that teachers have been busy working in their classrooms getting ready for school to begin.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported that enrollment process went smoothly. Preliminary enrollment figures look like Central will be up about 8 students. He also reported that teachers have been busy working in their rooms, getting prepared for the beginning of school. He commended all the teachers in the district who are working in their classrooms even before their contract begins.
Jason Walker, MS Principal reported also that the enrollment process went smoothly. MS preliminary enrollment figures indicate that we will be about even or possibly down just a little. Mr. Walker expressed his appreciation to the custodial and maintenance staff for making the building look brand new again for the beginning of school.
Cory White, HS Principal also commended the custodial and maintenance staff for the excellent job on preparing the HS building for the beginning of school. Mr. White reported that over 95% of students that we were expecting to enroll have already enrolled. Preliminary figures look like the HS will be up about 7 students. He plans to be checking on the remaining students to see if they have relocated or are planning to enroll.
Roger Reynolds, HS Athletic Director, reported that on August 27, the HS will hold their annual pop scrimmage. Volleyball will be from 6:00 – 7:00 p.m. with football following from 7:15 – 8:15. Mr. Avery, Cross Country Coach will also have his cross country team running during halftime of the football game. He also reported that there was very good attendance for the MS and HS physicals which were given earlier in the month.
Daymon McCorkle, Director of Maintenance, reported that the southwest section of the roof at Lincoln is being repaired. They have had some delays due to rain showers. He also reported that they will be finishing up the wifi at the High School so the technology department can finish getting that up and running. Daymon also complimented his custodian and maintenance staff on the great job they are doing in all of the buildings. He stated that right now the staff is concentrating on assisting staff in getting things up and ready to begin school.
Arthur Commons, Secondary Curriculum Coordinator expressed his appreciation to the board, Mr. Pendergraft, Mr. White and Mr. Walker as well as the secondary teachers for all of their assistance in getting the curriculum alignment off the ground during the last school year. He brought the board up to date on the accomplishments for 2014-15. He also reported what the target areas for the 15-16 school year are. They include: expanding concurrent courses with LCC from 3 to 8, possibly 12; training science and social studies teachers on curriculum alignment process, etc; evaluating science courses for redundancy and gaps in relation to NGSS; mapping work in BYOC for Science and HGSS; continuation of IA1-2-3 math courses; ELA/Math – lesson entry/revision for tentative publication of curriculum maps in August 2016.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and to discuss negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and in order 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 executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:52 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:02 p.m. Resume regular session.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and to discuss negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and in order 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 executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:02 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:07 p.m. Resume regular session.
Brandon Williams made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel and to discuss negotiations in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and in order 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 executive session shall include the board and the Superintendent. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:07 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:12 p.m. Resume regular session.
David Pendergraft made a recommendation to add an additional .5% accumulation to the bottom of the BS and BS+15 columns on the negotiated salary schedule in addition to the terms agreed to in the negotiated agreement for the 2015-16 school year with the Baxter Springs Teachers Association. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the negotiated agreement for 2015-16 with the addendum as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 6-0..
7:17 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley, Clerk/Board of Education
DeAnne Binns, President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a special meeting on Thursday, July 30, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: Joseph Skye, Dusty Deringer, Brandon Williams, Chuck Sweeton, DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick and Josh Sweaney. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk and Ross Davis, Technology Director.
President BInns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent David Pendergraft presented the 2015-16 budget for approval for publication.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to publish the 2015-16 budget as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy rights of the individuals to be discussed and that we return to open session in this room after a 5 minute period of time. This session shall include the Board, Superintendent and Ross Davis. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:36 p.m. Enter regular session.
6:41 p.m. Resume regular session.
Ross Davis made a recommendation to hire Jared Miller as computer technician for the 2015-16 school year.
Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation of Ross Davis to hire as computer technician for the 2015-16 school year. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Josh seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:43 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley, Clerk/Board of Education
DeAnne Binns, President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, July 13, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Joseph Skye, Dusty Deringer, Josh Sweaney,(6:03) and Chuck Sweeton. Members absent were: Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, Cory White, H.S. Principal, Jason Walker, M.S. Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Center Director and Rev. Roger Scantlin of Spring River Assembly of God Church.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Chuck Sweeton led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance. Rev. Roger Scantlin led the board and guests in a word of prayer.
Josh Sweaney arrived at 6:03 and was present for the remainder of the meeting.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adopt the agenda removing Item V, as that item is included on the consent agenda. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
DeAnne Binns opened the floor for nominations for president.
Chuck Sweeton nominated DeAnne Binns for president. Josh Sweaney moved that nominations cease and DeAnne Binns be elected president for 2015-16 by acclamation. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 5-0 with DeAnne Binns abstaining.
President Binns thanked the board for the vote of confidence in electing her as president and opened the floor for nominations for vice-president. Chuck Sweeton nominated Mary Kirkpatrick. Joseph Skye made a motion that nominations cease and Mary Kirkpatrick be elected vice-president by acclamation for 2015-16. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
Chuck made a motion to appoint Dusty Deringer as Governmental Relations Contact and Joseph Skye as Interlocal #637 Board member for 2015-16. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
Joseph Skye made a motion to approve the consent agenda as printed. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 6-0.
President BInns presented a letter of resignation from Darrel Dinger as technology technician effective July 10. Dusty Deringer made a motion to accept the resignation of Darrel Dinger as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported to the board on the recent budget workshop that he attended last week at Greenbush. He also reported the cash balances as of July 1, 2014 to the board.
Jason Walker, MS Principal, reported that Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, has been working diligently with MS students to make up their requirements. All of the students, with the exception of one, have met their requirements. He expressed his appreciation to Mr. Roberts for helping these students complete the requirements and stay on track.
Mr. Walker and Cory White, HS Principal discussed handbooks for both the MS and HS regarding attendance. The recommendations are as follows for both HS and MS handbooks:
If a student is tardy less than 20 minutes, the first and second times will result in a warning. The third, fourth and fifth time will result in detention. Any tardies beyond that will result in a day of ALC. This is current policy and will remain the same.
A new policy will be:
If a student is tardy by more than 20 minutes to first hour, the first and second times will be automatic detention. The third time and beyond will automatically result in Friday evening school from 3:15 – 6:15 p.m.
For Middle School only, the following change is recommended:
For finals, a student may be absent up to three times with an accompanying doctors note and be exempt from finals. This is to bring the MS handbook in line with the current HS handbook policy regarding exemptions from finals.
For High School only, the following change is recommended:
1. Striking the following rule under dress code: Facial, tongue, nose, or body piercing (except for the ears) will not be allowed.
Mr. White recommended striking this rule and asked that discretion be allowed by administration if any piercings are a distraction to the learning environment and for those to be dealt with on an individual basis.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to approve the changes recommended by Cory White to the HS handbook and to approve changes recommended by Jason Walker to the MS handbook as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director reported that on June 19, three graduates received their HS diplomas. He also reported that the virtual program has been approved by the State for the 2015-16 school year. Superintendent Pendergraft informed the board on how the state was going to fund virtual students in the 2015-16 school year as well as funding for adults attending virtual school. Mr. Roberts also presented a copy of the handbook for the Virtual School program for approval.
Dusty Deringer made a motion to approve the virtual school handbook as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
Mary Kirkpatrick left the meeting at 7:21 p.m. and was not present for the remainder of the meeting.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to discuss negotiations in order 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 shall include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:23 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:33 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy interests of the individuals to be discussed and to discuss negotiations in order 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 shall include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:34 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:44 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of 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 5 minute period of time. This session shall include the board, Superintendent and Cory White. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:45 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:50 p.m. Resume regular session.
Cory White, HS Principal made a recommendation to hire Travis Avery as Cross Country Coach for 2015-16. Joseph Skye made a motion to accept the recommendation of Cory White to hire Travis Avery as Cross Country Coach for 2015-16. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 5-0.
Cory White, HS Principal made a recommendation to hire Tim Yeargain as HS Head Softball Coach for 2015-16. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation of Cory White to hire Tim Yeargain as HS Head Softball Coach for the 2015-16 school year. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
David Pendergraft recommended hiring David Duree as Custodian at Lincoln School. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to hire David Duree as Custodian at Lincoln School. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 5-0.
Comments and concerns of the board included following up on the science labs at the HS and MS in which Mr. White said they are wanting a partition in the chemistry room and they would be good to go; traffic issues at HS for beginning of school.
Dusty Deringer expressed his appreciation to Chuck Zordel and his classes last year for constructing a bridge over at the old football field. The youth football league purchased the materials and Mr. Zordels classes built the bridge.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adjourn. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 5-0.
8:01 p.m. Meeting adjourned
Vicki Bradley, Clerk/Board of Education
DeAnne Binns, President/Board of Education
The Baxter Springs board of education held a special meeting on Monday, June 29, 2015 at 12:00 noon at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Chuck Sweeton, and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney, Melanie Bingham and Joseph Skye. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Vicki Bradley, Clerk, and Dusty Derringer.
President BInns called the meeting to order at 12:01 p.m.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adopt the agenda as printed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 4-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended the board raise the Supplemental General Fund Budget up to a maximum of 30% if needed.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to raise the Supplemental General Fund budget up to a maximum of 30% as recommended by Superintendent Pendergraft. Brandon Williams seconded.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 4-0.
12:05 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley, Clerk
DeAnne Binns/President
June 8, 2015 Board of Education Meeting
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. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 5-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the payment of bills, approval of minutes of the May 11th and May 26th, 2015 board meetings and treasurer’s report as printed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
President Binns introduced Kenny Boeckman who will serve as Lincoln Elementary Principal for 2015-16. Mr. Boeckman introduced his wife and children to the board and gave them some background on his experience.
Josh Sweaney arrived and was present for the remainder of the meeting.
President Binns presented resignations from Shelby Romines as Head Softball Coach and Arthur Commons as Cross Country Track Coach. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignations of Shelby Romines and Arthur Commons as presented. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent David Pendergraft requested the board to grant permission to the Superintendent and Clerk to close out the 2014-15 fiscal year and to make transfers as needed. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to grant permission to the Superintendent and Clerk to close out the 2014-15 fiscal year and make transfers as needed. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft gave an update on the legislative finance bill to the board.
Robert Womack, Central Principal, reported that summer school is going well and that summer maintenance projects are underway in his building.
Jason Walker, MS Principal, reported that the close of the school year was successful and they had a good awards assembly. Mr. Walker reported that six students failed classes and those students have had the opportunity for recovery classes since January. He reported that a couple of students have now completed those recovery classes. He also reported that the recovery classes have proved to be an incentive for MS students to work harder during the regular school year so they do not have to take recovery classes.
Cory White, HS Principal reported that the students who went to Costa Rica have returned and they had a very successful trip. He also reported that Angela Yarbrough is teaching four courses for Labette Community College at the high school this summer and those classes began today. He extended his congratulations to Coach Mercer, his staff and the HS baseball team for placing third in State Baseball competition. He also reported that several students have received individual honors and they are as follows:
Baseball CNC All-League:
1st team: Craig Karnes, Brendan Skye
2nd team: Cody Rowe
Honorable Mention: Nate Miller
Baseball All-State:
1st team: Brendan Skye
2nd team: Craig Karnes, Cody Rowe
KABC All-State Baseball game: Brendan Skye
Softball CNC All-League:
2nd team: Sarah Spencer
Honorable Mention: Hailey Humphrey
In addition, Coach Chris Mercer was named as CNC League Coach of the Year.
The board extended their congratulations to all the students and coaches for representing Baxter Springs well and for their individual honors.
Daymon McCorkle, Director of Maintenance gave an update to the board on summer projects that the maintenance and custodial crew are working on throughout the district.
Mr. McCorkle also presented bids for a roofing project at Lincoln School. Bids received were:
Midwest Coating - $24,906.75
Giesler Roofing - $27,690.00
Ryan Roofing - $30,000.00
Daymon McCorkle recommended accepting the bid of Midwest Coating for the Lincoln School roof project. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the recommendation of Daymon McCorkle to approve the bid of Midwest Coating for the roofing project at Lincoln School. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy interests of those individuals to be discussed and to discuss negotiations in order 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 shall include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:27 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:57 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy interests of those individuals to be discussed and that we return to open session in this room after a 15 minute period of time. This session shall include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:58 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:13 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss personnel matters of non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy interests of those individuals to be discussed and that we return to open session in this room after a 5 minute period of time. This session shall include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Chuck Sweeton seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:15 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:20 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jason Walker made a recommendation to hire Tammy Porter as MS 7th & 8th grade English teacher and MS cheerleading coach for 2015-16. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation of Jason Walker to hire Tammy Porter as MS English and cheerleading coach for 2015-16. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
David Pendergraft made a recommendation to re-hire all classified staff in each building for 2015-16. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to re-hire all classified staff in each building for 2015-16. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 6-0.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to adjourn. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:23 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley, Clerk/Board of Education
DeAnne Binns, President/Board of Education
May 11, 2015 Board of Education Meeting
The Baxter Springs board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, May 11, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Joseph Skye, Chuck Sweeton, and Josh Sweaney. Members absent were: Melanie Bingham and Brandon Williams. 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, Dennis Burke, Lincoln Principal, Ross Davis, Director of Technology, Daymon McCorkle, Director of Maintenance and Dusty Deringer.
President Binns called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
President Binns led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Joseph Skye made a motion to adopt the agenda as printed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to adopt the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of the minutes of the April 13th and April 28th, 2015 meetings and approval of the treasurer’s report.
Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent David Pendergraft recommended extending the food service contract with Oppa! for the 2015-16 school year. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to extend the food service contract with Opaa! for the 2015-16 school year. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
David Pendergraft made a recommendation to set the meal prices for the 2015-16 school year as follows:
Breakfast
Elementary $1.35
MS/HS $1.35
Adult $1.90
Lunch
Elementary $2.20
MS/HS $2.45
Adult $3.45
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to increase meal prices as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept an anonymous monetary gift to Baxter Springs Middle School to be matched by General Mills Corporation. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
President Binns presented resignations from Ryan Byrd and Michael Clyburn who is retiring at the end of the 2014-15 school year. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the resignations of Ryan Byrd and Michael Clyburn as presented. Carried 5-0.
Dennis Burke, Lincoln Principal reported on scheduling for the 2015-16 school year. He also reported that the new reading series has arrived and teachers are looking forward to using the new series beginning next fall. Mr. Burke reported that the last few days of school involves many fun activities for the primary grade school kids.
Robert Womack, Central Principal reported on end of the year activities including a fun day provided by PTO. He reported that summer school dates have been set for June 1 – 26 and enrichment classes at the Soda Fountain will be held July 6-July 31. Mr. Womack also reported that for the 2015-16 school year, Micah Crotts will be reassigned to Title I and the fifth grade will have three classrooms instead of four due to the number of students. Principal Womack also reported that Federal Rural Schools monies will be invested in purchasing iPads for Central to move toward a 1:1 initiative at Central School. He also reported that Prairie View schools came to visit today to observe the 1:1 initiative at Central.
Jason Walker, MS Principal reported that state assessments have been completed at the MS as well as the MS Track season is now complete. Several students received individual awards and the 7th grade girls team received 2nd place in two track meets. Mr. Walker wanted to publicly thank all the people who helped make the MS invitational track meet a success. He also wanted to thank Marilyn Gilmore and Cindy Sutterby for making the hospitality room a success. Mr. Walker reported that MS reward day is this Friday at which time students will be rewarded for attendance, GPA, and discipline points for this semester.
Cory White, HS Principal reported that state assessments are complete at the HS level. He reported that prom was very successful and extended his appreciation to all the staff that were involved in helping to make it a success. He also reported that the after prom party was a success and expressed his appreciation to all the parents who assisted with the party. Mr. White reported that state music contest was recently held at Andover and music instructors, Louis Morgan and Brenda Locke took several students. Many of the students earned I & II ratings. He also reported that the spring music concert will be held tomorrow night at 6:30 at BHS. Mr. White also reported that the Senior Trip went well with no glitches and thanked the sponsors for all of their help as well as extending his appreciation to the board for the transportation and pizza meal. He informed the board that the Senior awards assembly will be held this Friday and graduation ceremonies will be held Saturday at 6:00 p.m. with baccalaurate being held at 4:00 p.m.
Roger Reynolds, HS Athletic Director, congratulated HS Baseball Coach Mercer and his coaching staff on earning the title of CNC Conference Champs. He also reported that league golf meet will be held Wednesday at Schifferdecker Course in Joplin, league track will be at Girard, Baseball Regionals begin Monday with Baxter playing at 2:00 on Tuesday and the girls will play Monday at Parsons but the time slots have not been assigned yet.
Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director reported that the virtual audit has been completed. He also reported that there will be an increase in funding for 2015-16 since we are now a stand alone virtual school. This funding is in conjunction with the block grant. If the block grant gets shot down in court, then funding will revert to the old formula. Funding for adults will be paid at $933 per credit hour. New legislation also changes the age limit restriction for adult students. If they are 19 years of age before August 31 they will be considered an adult for funding purposes. Mr. Roberts also reported that there will be a field trip to MSSU on Wednesday and adult graduation ceremonies have been set for June 19, at 6:00 p.m. at BHS with a reception following at the Soda Fountain.
Daymon McCorkle, Director of Maintenance reported that the recent fire marshall visit went well and the few infractions that were noted have been corrected and documentation has been sent to the state. He also reported that the sound system has been installed at the Field of Dreams. Mr. McCorkle also commended the coaches for the time and effort they spend helping to maintain the fields. He and his staff really appreciate the work they do. He reported that recent projects have included removing the speed bump at the HS entrance, installing partitions at the MS staff restrooms and working on the installation of new playground equipment at Central. Daymon reported that summer projects include replacing some roof panels at Central School and irrigating the front lawn at Lincoln School. He also reported that he will obtain bids for asphalt work at the HS parking lot, and repairing the southwest wing roof at Lincoln School. President Binns commended the maintenance staff for a job well done in keeping our schools looking attractive.
Josh Sweaney 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, to discuss negotiations in order to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract, to discuss 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 20 minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board, Superintendent, Dusty Deringer and administrators as needed. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:00 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:20 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye 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, to discuss negotiations in order to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract, to discuss 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 20 minute period of time. This executive session shall include the board, Superintendent, Dusty Deringer and administrators as needed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:21 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:41 p.m. Resume regular session.
Joseph Skye 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, to discuss negotiations in order to protect the public interest in negotiating a fair and equitable contract, to discuss 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 executive session shall include the board, Superintendent, Dusty Deringer and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:42 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:52 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss non-elected personnel in order to protect the privacy of the individuals to be discussed and that we return to open session in this room after a 10 minute period of time. This session shall include the board, Superintendent, Dusty Deringer and Cory White. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:53 p.m. Enter executive session.
8:03 p.m. Resume regular session.
David Pendergraft made a recommendation to re-hire all certified staff for the 2015-16 school year. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the recommendation to re-hire all certified staff for the 2015-16 school year. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
David Pendergraft recommended hiring Kenneth Boeckman as Lincoln Elementary Principal for the 2015-16 school year. Chuck Sweeton made a motion to accept the recommendation of David Pendergraft to hire Kenneth Boeckman as Principal for Lincoln School for the 2015-16 school year. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
Roger Reynolds recommended hiring Christine Egan for HS head cheerleading sponsor for the 2015-16 school year. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation of Roger Reynolds to hire Christine Egan for HS Head Cheerleading Sponsor for the 2015-16 school year. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
Chuck Sweeton wanted to extend his appreciation to the principals who sat in on the interviews for Lincoln School principal.
Dennis Burke addressed the board and thanked them for their support through his tenure as Superintendent of Schools and as Principal at Lincoln School. He expressed his appreciation for the way the board has always made their decisions based on what was best for the students of USD#508 and expressed that working for the district will always be dear to him and his family.
The board extended their appreciation to Dennis for his years of service to the district and wished him well in his new position at Colgan-St. Mary’s in Pittsburg.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to adjourn. Joseph Skye seconded. Carried 5-0.
8:11 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Vicki Bradley, Clerk/Board of Education
DeAnne Binns, President/Board of Education