The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, March 7, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Steven Bell, First Assembly of God Church and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Steven Bell led in prayer.
Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the agenda, adding a guest under Item IV. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from February 14 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
No guests were present to speak at the meeting.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended approving Remote Learning days for all enrolled students on February 24, 25 for fiscal auditing purposes. DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the recommendation. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on upcoming negotiations, recent building purchases and changes to the district SRO position. Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 30 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:17 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:47 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:47 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:07 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:07 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:27 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:27 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:37 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:37 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:42 p.m. Resume regular session.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:42 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:52 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented letters of resignation from Hannah Hull for HS Language Arts and Taylor Boucher for HS Cheer & Dance. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Tiffany Silkey for HS Language Arts.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 7-0.
Casey Eaton made a motion to extend the contract of Superintendent Pendergraft through the 2024-2025 school year. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend all administrator contracts through the 2023-2024 school year. Jami Thiessen made a motion that all administrator contracts be extended through the 2023-2024 school year. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
Kerri Jensen made a motion to adjourn. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.
7:55 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Casey Eaton
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, February 14, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney and Jami Thiessen. Members absent were: Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Director, Holly High, School Nurse, Dorcia Johnson, United Methodist Church and Lee & Nadine Eaglin.
President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Dorcia Johnson led in prayer.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.
Linda Crotts made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from January 10 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the recent purchase of the old community center.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented the proposed 2022-2023 school calendar for consideration.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the 2022-2023 school calendar. Kerri Jensen seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended moving the March 14 meeting to March 7 due to Spring Break. Josh Sweaney made a motion to approve the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
Principal Wade addressed the board on an updated policy concerning teacher requests.
Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the updated policy concerning teacher requests. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
Principal White addressed the board concerning early graduation for seniors.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:25 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:45 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:45 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:55 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open
meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:25 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:05 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:05 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:10 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a letter of retirement from Lori Kellum for MS Counselor. He also presented resignations for Becky Qualls, HS Language Arts, Les Dyke, MS Math & Science and Carly Locke, HS Assistant Volleyball. Linda Crotts made a motion to accept the retirement and resignations as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Kelsey Thompson as half-time HS Science. Kerri Jensen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire James Panter as HS Softball.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.
Kerri Jensen made a motion to adjourn. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:13 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Casey Eaton
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, January 10, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Kerri Jensen, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Jeff Street, First Baptist Church, Dan Jensen and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
President Williams called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Jeff Street led in prayer.
The board observed a moment of silence for Carla Weston, former elementary para at Lincoln School.
Carrie Oakes, Clerk, administered the oath of office to newly elected board members, Linda Crotts and Kerri Jensen. Upon taking the oath of office, Crotts and Jensen assumed their duties as active board members and participated in all further business of the board meeting.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from December 13 and approval of the treasurer’s
report. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.
President Williams opened the floor for election of officers:
Brandon Williams made a motion to nominate Casey Eaton as president. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to elect DeAnne Binns as vice president. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0, with DeAnne Binns abstaining.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to elect Kerri Jensen as governmental relation contact. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to elect Linda Crotts as the representative to the SEK Interlocal 637 board. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0, with Linda Crotts abstaining.
Superintendent Pendergraft recognized the board members for National School Board Member month and expressed thanks for all they do.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on COVID information, possible new guidelines for substitute teachers, and the upcoming purchase of properties. Superintendent Pendergraft also apprised the board on attendance policies concerning finals exemption.
Brandon Williams made a motion to adopt the previous attendance policy with the exception of COVID related absences. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:24 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:29 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:29 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:34 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a letter of resignation from Jared Miller for MS Assistant Football Coach. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 7-0.
Kerri Jensen made a motion to adjourn. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:35 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Casey Eaton
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, December 13, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, and Jami Thiessen. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Kerri Jensen and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
Vice-President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from November 8 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on recent grant information.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss property pursuant to the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:05 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:15 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss property pursuant to the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:15 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:20 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft requested approval from the board to acquire land from Tyler Lewis for $15,000. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the request as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft requested approval from the board to acquire land as discussed in executive session. Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the request as presented. Linda Crotts seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented Mary Kirkpatrick with a plaque and thanked her for her service on the Board of Education.
Linda Crotts made a motion to adjourn. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:25 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Casey Eaton
Clerk/Board of Education Vice-President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, November 8, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Linda Crotts, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney (6:01 pm), Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Ross Davis, Technology Director, Kerri Jensen and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
President Williams called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.
Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from October 11 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on recent property purchases. He also had Ross Davis touch on cyber security concerning graduated students.
Arthur Commons reported on Post-Secondary Success.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.
6:30 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:45 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a resignation from Austin Buchanan for HS Assistant Basketball. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to hire Tyler Underhill for HS Assistant Basketball. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.
Linda Crotts made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0
6:49 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Brandon Williams
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, October 11, 2021 at 6:00p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: Casey Eaton. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Gene Nelson, CS Counselor, Linda Crotts, Kerri Jensen, John & Natalie Zanatta, and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
President Williams called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Jami Thiessen led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from September 13 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft introduced the candidates for the open board position due to the resignation of Dusty Deringer. Each candidate was given a portion of time to introduce themselves. The candidates were: Linda Crotts, Kerri Jensen and John Zanatta.
President Williams opened the floor for nominations to fill the vacant board position. Jami Thiessen nominated Linda Crotts. Josh Sweaney made a motion that all nominations cease. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
President Williams called for a vote. Linda Crotts received 5 votes from DeAnne Binns, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams.
Linda Crotts was appointed to the USD 508 Board of Education. This term will expire in January 2022.
Gene Nelson updated the board on a new crisis plan. The administrators updated the board on the new counselor evaluation form. Superintendent Pendergraft recommended approving the counselor evaluation form with the noted changes.
Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 30 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:37 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:07 p.m. Resume regular session.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:07 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:22 p.m. Resume regular session.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss property pursuant to the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and he open meeting will resume in 2 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:22 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:24 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to purchase the community building at 506 W 4th Street for $25,000 from the City of Baxter Springs. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring AJ Himes for MS assistant track and reassigning AJ Himes to Lincoln Elementary Para. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.
Jami Thiessen commended the HS teachers for recent homecoming events. She also thanked the administration for providing an ACT prep course.
President Williams inquired about technology security for students. This will be discussed at an upcoming board meeting. Linda Crotts made a motion to adjourn. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
7:29 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Brandon Williams
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, September 13, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binnes, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney and Jami Thiessen. Members absent were: Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Director, Kerri Jensen, Todd Hessee, Scot & Lori Shafer and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
Vice-President Eaton called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Josh Sweaney led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the amended agenda adding under item X, executive session to discuss confidential student information. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from August 9 & 18 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
Vice President Eaton opened the public hearing regarding the Revenue Neutral Rate for the 2021-2022 USD 508 Budget at 6:01 pm.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve resolution #91321 to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate for the 2021-2022 school year. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Vice-President Eaton opened the budget hearing at 6:07 pm.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the 2021-2022 budget as printed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented resolution #91421 for the board position vacated by
Dusty Deringer. Josh Sweaney made a motion to approve the resolution as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on enrollment numbers and a recent KDHE grant awarded to the district.
Principal White updated the board on league changes concerning football.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss confidential student information pursuant to the exception relating to actions adversely or favorable affecting a student under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binnsseconded. Carried 5-0.
6:34 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:44 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss confidential student information pursuant to the exception relating to actions adversely or favorable affecting a student under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:44 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:54 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss property pursuant to the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:55 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:05 p.m. Resume regular session.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:05 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:20 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Mike Hunley as Bus Driver, Daymon McCorkle as Part Time Maintenance Director and Bryce Cullers for Assistant Softball. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept recommendations as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented the following resignations: Sandy Davis, Bus Driver and Wendy Zustiak, MS Assistant Track. He also presented a retirement letter from Missy Swob as elementary teacher. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the retirement/resignations as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to sell property at 10th & Cherokee to Billy York in the amount of $8,000. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to approve all building handbooks. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:30 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Casey Eaton
Clerk/Board of Education Vice-President/Board of Education
The board of Education of USD 508 held a special meeting on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 12:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent and Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk.
President Williams called the meeting to order at 12:00 p.m.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on bids for the new High School Science Classroom project. The bids received were:
Crossland - $129,700
CSG - $109,470
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended accepting the bid of CSG for $109,470 for the High School Science Classroom project. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 5-0.
12:01 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Brandon Williams
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, August 9, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, Casey
Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick (6:16 pm), Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Cord Baldwin, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from July 6 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 5-0.
President Deringer addressed the board and submitted his resignation from the board effective immediately. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the resignation. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 4-0.
After the board accepted the resignation, Mr. Deringer left the meeting. (6:04 pm)
DeAnne Binns made a motion to appoint Brandon Williams to Board President. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 4-0.
DeAnne Binns made a motion to appoint Casey Eaton to Board Vice President. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 4-0.
President Williams reported on recent teacher negotiations.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on substitute teacher rate of pay and recommended raising to $105/day. Casey Eaton made a motion to increase the rate of pay as recommended. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 4-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft reported on enrollment, reopening guidelines and daycare updates.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:38 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:58 p.m. Resume regular session.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
6:58 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:08 p.m. Resume regular session.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 10 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:08 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:18 p.m. Resume regular session.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 5 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:18 p.m. Enter executive session.
7:23 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a retirement letter from Jo Sweeton as elementary para. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Mary Hixon, AJ Himes, and Trish Hull as paras, Shiloh Murphy as maintenance/custodial, Kyler Cook as HS Assistant Baseball and Alan Hibler as MS Assistant Football. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented changes to the negotiated agreement.
Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the negotiated agreement for 2021-2022 as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 5-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended a 2.82% increase for classified and administrative staff. Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.
7:28 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Brandon Williams
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education
The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Tuesday, July 6, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: DeAnne Binns. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kevin Wade, CS Principal, Art Roberts Alternative Learning Director and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.
President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda, adding under Item VI, b Acquisition of real property. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0. Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from June 14 and 21 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to exceed the Revenue Neutral Rate for the 2021-2022 School Year. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the plans for a new science lab at the HS and updates to the HS track.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss an individual employee pursuant to the non-elected personnel exception under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:16 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:31 p.m. Resume regular session.
Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to enter into executive session to discuss property pursuant to the exception for preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property under KOMA, and the open meeting will resume in 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:31 p.m. Enter executive session.
6:46 p.m. Resume regular session.
Superintendent Pendergraft presented a resignation from Cord Baldwin as HS Assistant Football Coach. He recommended reassigning Auston Himes to HS Assistant Football Coach. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignation and reassignment as presented.
Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.
Superintendent Pendergraft recommended selling property on 0 West 16th Street to Doug Puckett for $4,200. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.
Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.
6:49 p.m. Meeting adjourned.
Carrie Oakes Dusty Deringer
Clerk/Board of Education President/Board of Education