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