Red Wing School Board minutes July-Aug.

Independent School District #256

Red Wing Public Schools

The Red Wing School Board held its monthly meeting on Monday, July 18, 2011 in the Red Wing City Council Chambers. The Board members, Superintendent Karsten Anderson, Board Clerk/Director of Finance Brad Johnson, staff and public were present. Chair Jones called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.

Motion by Porter, second by Anderson to approve the agenda as submitted, motion carried 7-0.

Two sets of minutes were presented for June 20 and the June 27 special meeting. Motion by Anderson to approve both minutes, second by Christensen, motion carried 7-0.

Chair Jones announced we will have a closed session, then will go back into open session and adjourn immediately with no other business. Due to that, she at this time announced upcoming Board Meetings on August 1 at Council Chambers and August 15 at the Little Theatre. The first September meeting will be on Tuesday due to Labor Day. The Board has MSBA training in August. The City is surveying bike and pedestrian information at this time.

3.1Blandin Community Leadership Program: Ms. Janet Dusek presented information on this program. She works with Barb Haley with Steps Up. Steps Up is a 3-year locally funded program to build capacity with training, strategic planning and coaching. The target group has been staff and boards of non-profit agencies. The Blandin mission is sustainability of rural communities. In 1997 and 1999, Red Wing sent groups through Blandin. Applications are available and in the Board packet. Selection committee members will not be disclosed, but they will choose 24 participants, 12 of each gender. They are looking for broad representation. Ms. Dusek further explained the program and the meeting schedules for workshops. The cost is about $3,800 per person; Blandin underwrites the cost. They would be minimal travel costs to the individual. Some funds are available to pay for a substitute teacher. Another information session will occur in the fall.

3.2Superintendent’s Report: Superintendent Karsten Anderson introduced himself to the public. He reported on a few issues not requiring action. There were questions on the Labor Management Committee and Finance Director Johnson and Superintendent Anderson have reviewed it. The Committee functions to study and recommend to the Board regarding specifications and biddings. Significant rights exist that are part of state law, and these prohibit the Board from unilaterally lowering the aggregate value of benefits. Discussions concerning the principal position at Towerview have occurred with Dr. Radmer; a recommendation will be made at next meeting. Regarding overnight field trips, Superintendent has had two requests and is looking for guidance. Chair Jones explained that the form/application must be completed and the costs identified. Board Member Porter explained that the Board may consider dangerous parts of the world in the decision. The final item is the police liaison contract for 2011-12, which is proposed with a nominal increase of $300. Some details are being completed but it will be presented at the August meeting.

Claims & Accounts

June 1-30, 2011

Fund 01-General Funds$1,559,406.75

Fund 02-Food Service 19,561.78

Fund 03-Transportation 294,373.28

Fund 04-Community Services 58,114.19

Fund 05-Capital Expenditures 133,796.44

Fund 06-Building Construction 0.00

Fund 07-Debt Service 0.00

Fund 08-Auxiliary 36,153.13

Fund 09-Trust Agency 6,231.33

Fund 21-Student Activities 11,907.52

Fund 45-OPEB Trust Fund 0.00

Fund 47-OPEB Debt Service 0.00

Fund 50-Student Activities 11,914.24

Total$2,131,458.66

Payroll-June 15, 2011$1,433,171.59

Payroll-June 30, 2011$ 541,642.78

4.2New Hire: Anthony Casci, 0.7 FTE Math Teacher at Twin Bluff Middle School, effective August 2011 (replacement for a transfer); Benjamin Slagle, 0.2 FTE DAPE Teacher Districtwide, effective August 2011; Rachel Sager, 1.0 FTE Language Arts Teacher at RWHS, effective August 26, 2011 (replacement for a transfer).

4.3Additional Assignment: Julie Martin, 0.4 FTE Reading Teacher at Twin Bluff Middle School, effective September 6, 2011.

4.4Resignation: Sandy Flores, Gifted & Talented Program, District Wide, effective June 27, 2011; Ashley Force, 4th Grade Teacher at Burnside Elementary School, effective July 5, 2011; Nicole McQuiston, Assistant Teacher at Kid’s Junction, effective July 8, 2011.

4.5Terminations: Todd Everson, Custodian for Montessori School, effective June 6, 2011.

4.6Transfer: Kathy Gustafson, Level I Cook at Sunnyside Elementary School, effective September 6, 2011.

4.7Retirement: Kathy Radmer, Director of Instructional Services, effective June 30, 2012.

4.8Change of FTE: Kristin Thum, 0.68 FTE Teacher for FACS at RWHS.

Motion by Kramp, second by Anderson to approve the Consent Agenda, motion carried 7-0.

5.1 Contract with Director of Instructional Services: Superintendent Anderson handed out supplemental materials, including last fall’s recommendation and approval of salary increase for this group, and the flow chart for the position’s responsibilities. Recommendation from the Personnel Committee is to table and enact the increases granted to other administrators. Kramp moved approval of contract as presented and to table further action indefinitely, Christensen seconded. Board Member Anderson pointed out that the flowchart shows how much Dr. Radmer has been doing and he recognizes her for that, and it will be a huge challenge with her retirement to replace everything she does. Motion carried 7-0.

6.1Electronic Fund Transfers: Chair Jones and Finance Director Johnson explained that this was the only motion that was passed with a name attached, so with the change in superintendent, it needs correction. Christensen moved, Anderson seconded the motion to approve Superintendent Anderson and Finance Director Johnson as initiators of electronic fund transfers, motion carried 7-0.

6.2Annual Health & Safety Review: Mr. Kevin Johnson, Building and Grounds Director, presented the review. Regarding workman’s comp, our mode point jumped from 1.27 to 1.38, primarily due to one large case. He explained other activities including the mock OSHA inspections, asbestos inspections, and chemical cleanout of dated materials. Separate request forms have been created for food, animals, etc. He recommends changing the policy to limit food in classrooms. The recommissioning of Red Wing High School is halfway completed and hopes to achieve a 10% reduction on energy. He stated that the Board past policy has set temperatures for heating and cooling season, which is estimated to save $50,000 a year. Anderson moved approval of the policy, Boldt seconded, motion carried 7-0.

6.3Resolution to Allow Director to Obtain Line of Credit: Finance Director Brad Johnson presented a resolution allowing borrowing on a line of credit for cash flow if so needed with the State shutdown. He indicated in such a case he would notify the Chair and Finance Committee; Board member Boldt recommended this as policy. Kramp moved the resolution as spelled out in the attachment, Christensen seconded; the resolution was approved by roll call: voting aye: Anderson, Christensen, Boldt, Porter, Kramp, Baldwin, Jones; voting nay: none.

6.4Call for Nominations for the MSBA Delegate Assembly: Chair Jones explained the work of the delegate assembly; it is the platform building arm of the MSBA. Chair Jones has served in that capacity for two years and is willing to again, but would need the nomination. Porter moved the nomination of Chair Jones, Kramp seconded, motion carried 7-0.

6.5Closed Session Pursuant to M.S. 13D.05 Subd. 3(b): Motion by Christensen, second by Anderson to close the meeting pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13D.05 Subd. 3(b) to have discussion with the legal counsel regarding pending or threatening litigation protected by attorney-client privilege. The subject to be discussed concerns the status of a matter for civil litigation, motion carried 7-0. Chair Jones closed the meeting at 6:30PM. Attorney Morgan Godfrey presented information to the Board.

Motion by Christensen, second by Anderson to re-open the meeting at 7:58 PM, motion carried 7-0. Motion by Kramp, second by Porter to adjourn, motion carried 7-0. Chair Jones adjourned the meeting at 7:58 PM.

Respectfully Submitted,

Brad Johnson

Board Clerk

Sept. 21

Independent School District #256

Red Wing Public Schools

The Red Wing School Board held its first monthly meeting on Monday, August 1, 2011 in the Red Wing City Council Chambers. The Board members, Superintendent Karsten Anderson, Board Clerk/Director of Finance Brad Johnson, staff and public were present. Vice Chair Porter was absent. Chair Jones called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.

Superintendent Anderson explained the Disclosure of Interest section in the agenda. Motion by Christensen, second by Anderson to approve the agenda, motion carried 6-0.

Chair Jones corrected the spelling of SteppsUp organization in last meeting's minutes. Motion by Jones, second by Christensen to approve the minutes as amended, motion carried, 6-0.

Board members received an email from Ms. Stacy Wegner with the Red Wing Collectors' Society complimentary to staff for their assistance with convention arrangements. Ms. Wegner commented on custodian Al Harteneck's dedication. The Society celebrates its 35th anniversary next year.

3.1Presentation of City Strategic Plan: Red Wing Council President Ralph Rauterkus appeared to present the City's Strategic Plan Framework to the School Board. He explained the process used to obtain feedback, and to reaffirm the community vision and city mission. Action steps are not yet developed until feedback is complete. Four strategies have been developed: regional center, community connections, community vitality, and organizational culture.

3.2School District Strategic Plan Status Report: Dr. Kathy Radmer and Mr. Brian Cashman presented the update. Dr. Radmer presented the timeline for implementing the strategic plan from its summer 2010 beginning to the present. Monitoring processes were also explained. During 2010-11, 17 of 23 action steps were completed and the remainder will move to the next year. Mr. Cashman presented building assessment data and average scores of progress to the goals. Dr Radmer stated that the results are reasonable and no big surprises. Professional development days were much more targeted. Dr. Radmer explained goals for 2011-12. Challenges were also listed and explained.

3.3Legislative Update: Finance Director Brad Johnson reported on financial impacts of the 2011 Education bill: a $50 per ADM increase each year or about 1%. The 60-40 aid shift may have cash flow and borrowing implications. Dr. Radmer reported on the new evaluation language, which allows a 3 year cycle. It requires a growth plan and is consistent with our new protocol. The Literacy piece including incentive aid for grade 3 involves notification on testings and processes.

3.4Superintendent's Report: Superintendent Anderson reported that work continues on the sale of Bergwall to Southeast Tech. The MSBA summer seminar for Board members is upcoming. He included a recap of tasks for the next year, with some prioritization. There was a lawsuit filed in Federal District court, and a statement has been sent to the local news.

4.1. Claims & Accounts

July 1-15, 2011

Fund 01-General Funds$ 763,629.34

Fund 02-Food Service 9,860.63

Fund 03-Transportation 0.00

Fund 04-Community Services 10,418.92

Fund 05-Capital Expenditures 97,112.02

Fund 06-Building Construction 0.00

Fund 07-Debt Service 0.00

Fund 08-Auxiliary 0.00

Fund 09-Trust Agency 16,135.87

Fund 21-Student Activities 145.00

Fund 45-OPEB Trust Fund 0.00

Fund 47-OPEB Debt Service 0.00

Fund 50-Student Activities 2,501.83

Total$ 899,803.61

Payroll-July 15, 2011$ 479,342.17

4.2New Hire: Joanna Milo, 4th Grade Teacher at Burnside Elementary School, effective August 26, 2011 (due to a resignation); Michelle Kelly, Kindergarten Teacher at Sunnyside Elementary School, effective August 2011 (new position).

4.3Resignation: Dena Bing, Special Ed. Assistant at Burnside Elementary School, effective July 21, 2011.

4.4Retirement: Mary Lorraine Winkels, Cook at Sunnyside Elementary School, effective June 30, 2012; Boyd Olson, ABE Program, effective July 15, 2011.

4.5Reassignment: Lisa Adams, Level I Cook at Twin Bluff Middle School, effective September 6, 2011 (reassignment).

4.6Transfer: Kathy Gustafson, Level I Cook at Sunnyside Elementary School, effective September 6, 2011.

4.7Retirement: Kathy Radmer, Director of Instructional Services, effective June 30, 2012.

4.8Change of FTE: Kristin Thum, 0.68 FTE Teacher for FACS at RWHS.

Motion by Anderson, second by Boldt to approve Consent Agenda, motion carried 6-0.

There was no Unfinished Business.

6.1Restrictive Procedures Plan: Director Cherie Johnson of GCED presented information on Restraint and Seclusion procedures. MS 125A.094 becomes effective 8-1-11 but had two years since its passage to implement. It promoted use of positive behavior interventions, and skill acquisition rather than behavior reduction. Only one seclusion room exists in ISD 256 and two in the county. When these events occur, staff must have considerable documentation. Ms. Johnson presented the procedure document and explained training processes. Anderson moved approval of the restrictive procedures plan, second by Christensen, motion carried 6-0.

6.2Police-School Liaison Contract: Superintendent Anderson explained the contract renewal with a 1% increase in cost. Tom Rikli is the current officer assigned. Board Member Christensen asked about enforcement of laws versus school policies. He understood that Officer Rikli hasn't always been available to answer calls. Motion by Kramp, second by Boldt to approve the 2011-12 contract; motion carried 6-0. Board Member Christensen requested follow-up on how the officer's time is spent.

6.3School Calendar Changes: Superintendent Anderson recommended a few changes in the 2011-12 calendar, including the school open house, a change in the curriculum showcase, and the primary reason is due to a typographical error that listed a half-work day instead of a full day. Motion by Christensen, second by Anderson to approve the recommended calendar changes, motion carried 6-0.

6.4Tower View Administrative Duties: Superintendent Anderson presented background. Superintendent Slessor had been acting principal there and the District needed to change that. The short-term issue is for 2011-12, with a longer term in the years following. The one year solution is presented with more study needed for the long-term. The recommendation is to assign administrative duties to Brian Cashman as 90% teacher and 10% administrative under the Superintendent's supervision. Mr. Cashman has more flexibility with his RTI assignment. Mr. Cashman will get 90% of his teacher's salary and 10% of an assistant principal's salary which will be negotiated. The cost estimate is $0-$4,000. Board Member Christensen commented that he originally opposed the idea due to Mr. Cashman's workload, but as he is out there once a week, it is a good idea. Motion by Christensen to approve the assignment of Mr. Cashman to Towerview, second by Kramp, motion carried 6-0.

6.5Health Insurance: Board Member Boldt had talked with Insurance Committee co-chair Kirby Hanson, and due to the arrival of additional information and additional clarification, it may be best to table this action and present the information to the insurance committee. Motion by Boldt, second by Christensen to table action on the health insurance recommendation, motion carried 6-0.

Personnel committee notes were included in the packet from the last meeting.

Chair Jones reported upcoming meetings: August 15 at Little Theater, September 6 at the Little Theatre, and September 19 at City Council. There will be a Board Workshop on October 3. Motion by Christensen, second by Kramp to adjourn, motion carried 6-0. Chair Jones adjourned the meeting at 7:13PM.

Respectfully Submitted,

Brad Johnson

Board Clerk

Sept. 21

Independent School District #256

Red Wing Public Schools

The Red Wing School Board held its second monthly meeting on Monday, August 15, 2011 in the Little Theatre at Red Wing High School. The Board members, Superintendent Karsten Anderson, Board Clerk/Director of Finance Brad Johnson, staff and public were present. Board Member Boldt was absent. Chair Jones called the meeting to order at 5:30 P.M.

Motion by Anderson, second by Christensen to approve the agenda, motion carried 6-0.

Motion by Kramp, second by Porter to approve the minutes, motion carried 6-0.

3.1Recognition: Chair Jones recognized Megan Jensen and Kelli Ann O’Leary who each donated $100 worth of school supplies and backpacks to United Way. Three Board members attended the MSBA meetings, including Chair Jones, Board Member Baldwin, and Board Member Christensen. Board member Christensen stated it was important to promote service from mediocre to majestic. Building relationships is important. Board Member Baldwin described the session as a great opportunity to network with other Board members and learn about resources. Chair Jones related some of the legislative session, including the tax shift and its timeline. At this point, 133 districts are running referendums for 2011. Staff from the Byron district presented information on using online resources, including videos that are accessible at all hours and fill the need for textbooks.

3.2Public Comment: None.

3.3Superintendent’s Report. Superintendent Anderson reported that to deal with the Board’s request for process in short-term line-of-credit borrowing, the Board members would be notified of intent with the rationale by email. He asked if the tentative 2012 calendar is satisfactory with current meeting times, though final approval won’t occur until January; Board members are satisfied. Board agenda packets are now online and can be accessed by public. Chair Jones asked about an earlier reference to an Administrative handbook; the goal is to compile administrative procedures, something of a procedural manual by year-end.

4.1. Claims & Accounts

July 16-31, 2011

Fund 01-General Funds$ 555,938.35

Fund 02-Food Service 1,675.15

Fund 03-Transportation 1,919.35

Fund 04-Community Services 56,479.12

Fund 05-Capital Expenditures 193,773.97

Fund 06-Building Construction 0.00

Fund 07-Debt Service 1 ,150.00

Fund 08-Auxiliary 2,381.27

Fund 09-Trust Agency 3,432.65

Fund 21-Student Activities 1,271.45

Fund 45-OPEB Trust Fund 0.00

Fund 47-OPEB Debt Service 0.00

Fund 50-Student Activities 745.54

Total$ 818,766.85

Payroll-July 29, 2011$ 467,596.13

4.2New Hire: Tricia Kohner, 0.4 FTE Science 7th Grade & 0.2 FTE Computer 5th Grade at Twin Bluff Middle School, effective August 2011 (substitute and reduction of overload).

4.3Parental Leave: Hattie Ekholm, Math Teacher at RWHS, effective November 14, 2011 thru February 6, 2012.

4.4Reassignment: Amy Sarnstrom, Level I Cook at Twin Bluff Middle School, effective September 6, 2011; Heidi Miller, Level I Cook at Twin Bluff Middle School, effective September 6, 2011; Sandy Jensen, Level I Cook at Sunnyside Elementary School, effective September 6, 2011.

4.5Resignation: Jodie Bray, Industrial Technology Teacher at RWHS, effective August 5, 2011; Clark Fjelsted, Part-time Custodian at Sunnyside Elementary School, effective June 3, 2011; Amy Grainger, Sign Language Interpreter at Burnside Elementary School, effective July 28, 2011.

Motion by Porter, second by Anderson, to approve the Consent Agenda, motion carried 6-0.

5.1Health Insurance: Superintendent Anderson announced that we are hoping for a recommendation for the September meeting. The matter remains tabled.

6.1Tower View Program of Studies: Dr. Radmer presented information on the Towerview studies and graduation requirements. This year, the language arts standard was adjusted. Courses must be linked with high school and Towerview. The studies had to deal with issues with waivers allowing teachers to teach certain courses. Board Member Porter asked if the Governor looking for a waiver for NCLB affect this; it may take some burden off consequences but not known for certain. Motion by Anderson, second by Kramp to approve the program of studies, motion carried 6-0.

6.2Workers Compensation Policy: Finance Director Brad Johnson presented a Workman’s Compensation Light Duty Policy. Insurance carriers have requested the Board formalize existing practice. Mr. Johnson explained the points of the policy. Motion by Christensen, second by Porter to approve the policy; motion carried 6-0.

6.3Truth-in-Taxation Hearing Meeting and Location: Finance Director Brad Johnson presented information on required Truth-in-Taxation meetings and recommended a date of December 5, 2011 at 6pm for the hearing concerning the 2012 levy. Motion by Christensen, second by Baldwin to approve the recommendation, motion carried 6-0.

6.4Closed Session: The meeting was recessed at 6:20 PM to await Attorney Morgan Godfrey; it was reconvened at 6:30 PM. Motion by Anderson that meeting be closed pursuant to Minnesota Statute 13D.05 Subd. 3(b) to have discussions with legal counsel regarding a pending or threatened litigation protected by attorney-client privilege, second by Christensen, motion carried 6-0. The meeting was closed at 6:32pm. Motion by Christensen, second by Anderson to reopen the meeting, motion carried 6-0. Chair Jones reopened the meeting at 7:51 PM.

There were no Committee reports.

Chair Jones reported upcoming meetings: September 6 at Little Theatre, September 19 at City Council, and a workshop on October 3 at TBMS IMC. The new teacher luncheon will be on August 26. The Red Wing mayor has an upcoming workshop this week. Board Member Baldwin announced the upcoming Walking the Talk program, $15 a person or $10 a student, on September 24, 9:15-2:30.

There being no further business after the closed session the meeting adjourned: Motion by Anderson, second by Christensen to adjourn the meeting, motion carried 6-0. Chair Jones adjourned the meeting at 7:52PM.

Respectfully Submitted,

Brad Johnson

Board Clerk

Sept. 21

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