The board of Education of USD 508 held a special meeting on Tuesday, June 1, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal and Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Casey Eaton 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. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:00 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:10 p.m. Resume regular session.

Casey Eaton 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. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:10 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:15 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented resignations from Kyle Baldridge as High School Assistant Principal, Chase Johnston as High School Social Science Teacher, Assistant Football Coach and Assistant Baseball Coach and Brittany Minor as High School Assistant Softball Coach. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Rexene Redd as High School Language Arts Teacher and Cheryl Moser as Central Elementary Para for the 2021-2022 school year. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendations. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:17 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                              Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                           President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, May 14, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military Ave. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, Robert Womack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report, Jody Roher and Mardy Allen.

President Deringer 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 presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from April 12 and approval of the treasurer’s report. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Jody Roher spoke to the board concerning a student issue.

Mardy Allen spoke to the board concerning a student issue.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the subscription rates for the Columbus News-Report.

Superintendent Pendergraft expressed thanks from district teachers for all the activities during Teacher Appreciation Week.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended extending the food service contract with OPAA! For the 2021-2022 school year. DeAnne Binns made a motion to accept the recommendation of Superintendent Pendergraft. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended Food Service prices for the 2021-2022 school year for approval (Student Breakfast - $1.80, Elementary Student Lunch - $2.80, Secondary Student Lunch - $3.05, Adult Breakfast - $2.50, Adult Lunch - $4.30). Josh Sweaney made a motion to approve the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft reported the audit revealed additional funding is available due to enrollment in the Virtual Fund and asked the board to republish the Virtual budget in order to capture these funds. Brandon Williams made a motion to support Superintendent Pendergraft’s request to republish the Virtual Fund. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.

President Deringer updated the board on legislative updates and expressed thanks to the First Assembly of God Church and Steven Bell for their student donations.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on summer school and an upcoming professional development opportunity.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended increasing pay for summer school employees ($35/hour certified, $25/hour classified) and for the professional development days ($200/day certified, $150/day classified). Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the increase in pay. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on the purchase of a maintenance vehicle. The board granted permission for Superintendent Pendergraft to begin the search for a new maintenance vehicle.

Brandon Williams 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. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:48 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:18 p.m. Resume regular session.

Brandon Williams 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 7-0.

7:18 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:28 p.m. Resume regular session.

Brandon Williams 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 20 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:28 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:48 p.m. Resume regular session.

Brandon Williams 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. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:48 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:58 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented the following resignations:

Charles Rector – Powerlifting Coach

Sheena Brubaker – High School Dance and Cheer

Cameron Woodring—High School Boys Assistant Basketball

Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to renew certified contracts for the 2021-2022 school year and the following hirings:

HS Science – Kyler Cook

HS Math—Cris Norton

HS Social Studies—Tayler Boucher

HS Dance and Cheer Head Coach—Tayler Boucher

Elementary Title Reading—Angie Pendergraft

Secondary Reading Intervention Specialist—Kami Butterfield

Elementary Teacher—Erin Commons

Elementary Teacher—Skye Kerr

HS English—Tabled

Secondary Strength and Conditioning Teacher—Austin Buchanan

HS Assistant Football Coach—Austin Buchanan

HS Assistant Football Coach—Tim Parrish

MS Assistant Football Coach—AJ Himes

MS Assistant Football Coach—Kyler Cook

Custodian—Jim Kinsch

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendations. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

8:02 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                                                    Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                                                 President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, April 12, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 104 N Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, 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, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Kevin & Angela Wade, Travis Brumback, Labette Community College and Amber Helwig, Columbus News-Report.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Casey Eaton 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.

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from March 8 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft introduced the new principal of Central School, Kevin Wade and his wife Angela.

President Deringer reported on legislative updates.

Superintendent Pendergraft introduced Travis Brumback with Labette Community College. Travis spoke on LCC’s welding program currently used at the high school.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended making the Columbus News-Report the official newspaper for USD 508 for the remainder of the 2020-2021 school year. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended appointing himself as hearing officer for grievances filed for Senate Bill 40. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft requested that the board forgive five snow days (1/27, 2/8-11). Jami Thiessen made a motion to forgive the days requested. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft requested permission to surplus two vehicles (suburban and 65 passenger bus) and list them on Purplewave. Josh Sweaney made a motion to grant permission for Superintendent Pendergraft to surplus and list the noted vehicles. DeAnne Binns 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 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board,

Superintendent and administrators as needed. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:44 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:59 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. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:59 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:14 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented the following resignations: Autumn Carson – Elementary Teacher 

Michele Hensley – Elementary Title Teacher 

Barbra Mason – HS Business Teacher

Larry Qualls – Custodian

Carla Weston – Elementary Para

Austin Williams—MS Assistant Football

Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended reassigning Leslie Bowman to HS FACS. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Tyler Underhill for MS Head Football. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Kimberly Maute for MS Language Arts. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended reassigning Chase Johnston to half time Strength and Conditioning while remaining half time Social Science. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended reassigning Nancy Daniels to Graphic Design. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

7:38 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                              Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                           President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, March 8, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1501 Park. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: Mary Kirkpatrick. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Director, Ross Davis, Technology Director, Angela Burrows, Kami Butterfield, Wendy Zustiak, Haley Hembree, Amber Helwig and Daryl Eagon.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Casey Eaton led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance.

The board observed a moment of silence in honor of Nancy Roberts, former elementary teacher.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from February 8 and 22 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Daryl Eagon, CPA of Diehl, Banwort & Bolton, presented the audit findings for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2020. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the audit report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2020 as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

President Deringer discussed legislative updates and touring the buildings.

Superintendent Pendergraft discussed negotiations and facility updates.

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 6-0.

6:40 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:10 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 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

7:10 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:25 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 6-0.

7:25 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:30 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 6-0.

7:30 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:35 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a resignation from Nikki Williams for HS FACS teacher at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Cory White expressed his thanks for all the hard work that Mrs. Williams has done for the HS FACS program.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Kevin Wade for Central Elementary School Principal with the contract extending to the 2022-2023 school year. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 5-1, with DeAnne Binns abstaining.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for HS Principal to Cory White through the 2022-2023 school year. Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for HS Assistant Principal to Kyle Baldridge through the 2022-2023 school year. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for MS Principal to Jason Walker through the 2022-2023 school year. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for LS Principal to Kenny Boeckman through the 2022-2023 school year. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the recommendation. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for Alternative Learning Director to Arthur Roberts through the 2022-2023 school year. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for Curriculum Coordinator to Arthur Commons through the 2022-2023 school year. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the recommendation. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft made a recommendation to extend the contract for Technology Director to Ross Davis through the 2022-2023 school year. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 6-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

7:43 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                                                   Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                                                President/Board of Education

The board of Education of USD 508 held a special meeting on Monday, February 22, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director and Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the agenda as printed. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a retirement letter from Daymon McCorkle as Director of Buildings and Grounds as of February 28, 2021. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the retirement as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

The District Strategic Plan was discussed.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

8:03 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                 Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education              President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, February 8, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 801 Lincoln. Members present were: DeAnne Binns, Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick (Zoom), Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal (Zoom), Jason Walker, MS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Director, Daymon McCorkle, Maintenance Director (Zoom), Waylon and Lacey Schultz and Glenn Oakes.

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 7-0.

Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from January 11 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

President Deringer reported on recent legislative updates and an upcoming strategic planning meeting.

Superintendent Pendergraft reported on FFCRA leave time.

Brandon Williams made a motion to extend FFCRA time through June 30, 2021. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft reported on upcoming transportation purchases.

Brandon Williams made a motion to allow Superintendent Pendergraft to proceed with the purchase of a bus up to $70,000. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergaft introduced Waylon and Lacey Schultz with Studio 951 in Carthage, MO.

Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the services of Studio 951 as school photographers. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft continued discussion on upcoming transportation purchases.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to allow Superintendent Pendergraft to purchase a vehicle for food service up to $14,300. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

Casey Eaton made a motion to allow Superintendent Pendergraft to purchase a Transit van up to $31,066. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented the proposed 2021-2022 school calendar for consideration.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to approve the 2021-2022 school calendar. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Brandon Williams 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:46 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:16 p.m. Resume regular session.

DeAnne Binns left the room at 7:07 and returned at 7:10. Brandon Williams 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:16 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:46 p.m. Resume regular session.

Casey Eaton left the room at 7:46 and returned at 7:48.

Brandon Williams 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:46 p.m. Enter executive session.

8:16 p.m. Resume regular session.

Brandon Williams 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 7-0.

8:16 p.m. Enter executive session.

8:31 p.m. Resume regular session.

Brandon Williams 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

8:31 p.m. Enter executive session.

8:36 p.m. Resume regular session.

Brandon Williams 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

8:36 p.m. Enter executive session.

8:46 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a resignation from Matt Mims for HS Strength and Conditioning Para, Head Football and Head Softball.

Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the resignation from Matt Mims  for Head Football and Head Softball immediately and for HS Strength and Conditioning Para at the conclusion of the 2020-2021 school year. Casey

Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Anthony Roberts forHead Softball.

Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended reassigning Russell Burr from HS Assistant Foootball to HS Head Football for the 2021-2022 School year.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Chase Johnston and Tyler Underhill for Assistant Baseball for the 2020-2021 school year.

Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the contract of Superintendent Pendergraft with Appendix A as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.

8:53 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                  Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education               President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, January 11, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were:DeAnne Binns (Zoom), Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick,Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were:David Pendergraft, Superintendent (Zoom), Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk,Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, RobertWomack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts,Alternative Learning Director, Ross Davis, Technology Director, AmberHellwig, Cherokee County Advocate and Jeff Street, Pastor of the FirstBaptist Church.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and

Jeff Street led in prayer.

Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.

President Deringer opened the floor for election of officers. DeAnne Binns made a motion to elect Dusty Deringer as president. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to elect Brandon Williams as vice president. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to elect Dusty Deringer as governmental relation contact. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

Josh Sweaney made a motion to elect Jami Thiessen as the representative to the SEK Interlocal 637 board. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 7-0.

Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from December 14 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.

President Deringer discussed how the district would handle situations due to incapacitated employees. He also reported on committee assignments,bond refinancing, future stimulus funds and the superintendent evaluation. Last, he updated the board on recent legislative updates and acknowledged First Assembly of God Church for providing shoes for every student in the district at Christmas.

Superintendent Pendergraft reported on FFCRA leave time, a change to the school photography company and additional stimulus funding.

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. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.

6:31 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:01 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 15 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 7-0.

7:01 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:16 p.m. Resume regular session.

Jami Thiessen discussed possible solutions for prom. She also confirmed website links for travelling basketball games, which are included on the school website.

President Deringer discussed graduation.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried

7-0.

7:27 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                                        Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                                     President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, November 9, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at 1108 Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns (via Zoom), Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, and Mary Kirkpatrick. Members absent were: Josh Sweaney, Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, Robert Womack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Daymon McCorkle, Maintenance Director, Holly High, District Nurse and Pastor Jeff Street, First Baptist Church.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Casey Eaton led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Jeff Street led in prayer.

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 4-0.

Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from October 12th and approval of the treasurer’s report. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 4-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the board on maintenance projects, a meeting with the awards committee and a donation of turkeys and clothing from Jake LaTurner.

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 25 minutes in the boardroom. This meeting is to include the board, Superintendent and administrators as needed. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 4-0.

6:31 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:56 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 4-0.

6:56 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:11 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. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 4-0.

7:11 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:16 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented resignations from Kristi Ackerson from MS Language Arts, Bob Dinger from Maintenance and Charles Rector from MS Head Football. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the resignations as presented. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 4-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Kristina Emerson for medical assistant. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 4-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Cameron Woodring for HS Assistant Boys Basketball. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 4-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended entering into a contract with Cherokee County Sherrif Department for the School Resource Officer. Casey Eaton made a motion to accept the recommendation. Dusty Deringer seconded. Carried 4-0.

Casey Eaton made a motion to adjourn. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 4-0.

7:21 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                                         Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                                      President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, October 12, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at 100 N Military. Members present were: Dusty Deringer, Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney (6:05 pm), Jami Thiessen and Brandon Williams. Members absent were: DeAnne Binns. Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MSPrincipal, Robert Womack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Art Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Coordinator, Holly High, District Nurse, Tyler Ludwig, School Resource Officer, Amber Helwig, Cherokee County Advocate and Pastor Jeff Street, First Baptist Church.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Brandon Williams led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and Jeff Street led in prayer.

Casey Eaton made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Mary Kirkpatrick seconded. Carried 5-0.

Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from September 14 and 21, 2020 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 5-0.

President Deringer thanked Arthur Commons for providing remote learning help for parents on the USD 508 website. He also talked about evaluations for staff.

Superintendent Pendergraft reported current COVID cases and enrollment numbers.

Art Roberts commended Lindi Schmelzer on qualifying for state golf. 

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. Brandon Williams seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:14 p.m. Enter executive session.

6:29 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Jenny Hagen for medical assistant. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendation as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 6-0.

Brandon Williams made a motion to adjourn. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 6-0.

6:31 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                                    Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                                 President/Board of Education

The USD 508 board of education held a regular meeting on Monday, September 14, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at 100 N Military. Members present were: DeAnne Binns (via Zoom), Dusty Deringer (via Zoom), Casey Eaton, Mary Kirkpatrick, Josh Sweaney (via Zoom), Jami Thiessen (via Zoom) and Brandon Williams (via Zoom). Also present were: David Pendergraft, Superintendent, Carrie Oakes, Board Clerk, Cory White, HS Principal, Kyle Baldridge, HS Assistant Principal, Jason Walker, MS Principal, Robert Womack, CS Principal, Kenny Boeckman, LS Principal, Arthur Roberts, Alternative Learning Director, Arthur Commons, Curriculum Director, Courtney Buck, Technology Integration, Daymon McCorkle, Maintenance Supervisor, Misha Himes, BOE Secretary, Patricia Braden, OPAA Director and Amber Helwig, Cherokee County Advocate.

President Deringer called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.

Casey Eaton led the board and guests in the pledge of allegiance and President Deringer led in prayer.

President Deringer extended condolences to the family of L.E. “Bud” Johnson and led the board in a moment of silence.

DeAnne Binns made a motion to approve the agenda as presented. Josh Sweaney seconded. Carried 7-0.

Brandon Williams made a motion to approve the consent agenda which included approval of the bills, approval of minutes from August 10 and 14, 2020 and approval of the treasurer’s report. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

President Deringer reported on resources that will be made available to parents in regards to remote learning. He also reported on staff recognition. Last, he spoke about gating criteria.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended raising the substitute teacher rate of pay to $100/day. Mary Kirkpatrick made a motion to accept the recommendation. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented changing the sick leave pool policy in the Classified Handbook. President Deringer made a motion  to accept the changes to the 2020-2021 Classified Handbook and to eliminate #12 in the sick pool guidelines. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented information on the Payroll Tax Holiday. Casey Eaton recommended not participating in the Payroll Tax Holiday. DeAnne Binns seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft updated the school board on enrollment numbers and the recent Spark grant distributed by the county.

Casey Eaton 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.

7:27 p.m. Enter executive session.

7:42 p.m. Resume regular session.

Superintendent Pendergraft presented a resignation from Carolyn Ward as MS Yearbook Sponsor. Jami Thiessen made a motion to accept the resignation as presented. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

Superintendent Pendergraft recommended hiring Caitlin Roberts for HS Assistant Volleyball, Ali Sneed as HS STUCO sponsor and Nicole Conner and Lori Kellum as MS Yearbook sponsors. Brandon Williams made a motion to accept the recommendations as presented. Jami Thiessen seconded. Carried 7-0.

Jami Thiessen commended Holly High for her hard work as school nurse since school began. She also noticed Ross Davis, Courtney Buck and Jared Miller for getting technology into the hands of every student.

Jami Thiessen made a motion to adjourn. Casey Eaton seconded. Carried 7-0.

8:03 p.m. Meeting adjourned.

Carrie Oakes                                                                        Dusty Deringer

Clerk/Board of Education                                                     President/Board of Education