Kenai Peninsula Borough School District public meetings in 2020

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee is holding a hybrid meeting to receive an update from the search firm McPherson & Jacobson, review survey results, and discuss finalist interview questions and the search timeline. The committee will also approve minutes from its November 10 meeting.

• Update from McPherson & Jacobson search firm on superintendent search
• Presentation and discussion of survey results by Mr. Steve Lowder
• Committee discussion on how to determine finalist interview questions
• Discussion of the search timeline

The committee approved the meeting notes from November 10, 2020. Members discussed the current status of superintendent applications, survey results from 158 participants, and potential interview formats for finalists.

• Approved Nov. 10, 2020 notes as printed

Board of Education Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education will review a five-year enrollment projection showing a preliminary FY21 enrollment of 7,753.12, about 820 fewer than originally projected. The board will also consider approving budget transfers over $50,000 for charter school services, and approve district calendars for 2021-2024. The meeting is held virtually due to the pandemic.

• Five Year Enrollment Projection: FY21 preliminary enrollment 7,753.12 (down 819.88 from original 8,573); FY22 projection 7,861
• Budget transfers 243–246 over $50,000 for charter school in-kind services and facility rent
• District calendars for 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24
• October 2020 finance reports
• School reports from Skyview Middle School and Soldotna High School

The Board of Education approved revisions to the Smart Start Plan "Red Operations," specifically expanding the 5-day school week for students in Pre-K through 6th grade. Several other proposed revisions to the plan, including a 5-day week for all grades and pre-approval for school closures, were denied.

• Approved expansion of 5-day school week for Pre-K through 6th grade
• Denied 5-day school week for Pre-K through 12th grade (4-5)
• Denied pre-approval for school closures due to staffing issues (2-7)
• Approved budget transfers exceeding $50,000
• Approved District Calendars for 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24
• Approved amended FY21 contract for Superintendent John O'Brien
• Approved new teacher and long-term substitute teacher contracts
• Approved unpaid leave of absence request for certified staff

Board of Education Policy Review Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Policy Review Committee will review BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct, a Title IX-related policy addressing adult-on-student behavior. The committee has previously discussed the policy at its October and November meetings and now has clean and mark-up copies of suggested changes for further review.

• Review of BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct policy (Title IX adult-on-student behavior)
• Discussion of clean and mark-up copies of proposed policy changes from November 2 meeting
• Policy reviewed by a national expert in child sexual abuse

The Board of Education Policy Review Committee met to review district policies. The committee recommended that policy BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct move forward to a first reading.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved meeting notes as printed
• Recommended BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct move forward to a first reading

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Information Committee meets in a hybrid virtual session to receive updates on the annual report, budget and finance communications, the Smart Start Plan and COVID-19 notification changes, recent surveys, a mental health campaign, and the superintendent search. No votes or formal decisions are listed; the agenda is informational and procedural.

• Approval of notes from the November 2, 2020 meeting
• Update on the status of the annual report
• Discussion of budget and finance communications
• Smart Start Plan updates and COVID-19 positive case notification changes in schools
• Update on the progress of communications for the superintendent search

The committee approved the meeting notes as printed. Members received updates on the annual report, budget communications, and the superintendent search survey.

• Approved meeting notes as printed

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will hold work sessions on policy review, pandemic response, and governance handbook. The main discussion centers on revisions to the Smart Start 2020 plan for 'Red/High Risk' operations, allowing in-person learning for all students during high COVID-19 case counts, with implementation recommended no earlier than January 19, 2021. The revised plan will be voted on at the evening board meeting.

• Discussion of revised 'Red Operations' Smart Start plan to reopen schools during high COVID-19 risk
• Stakeholder surveys and medical consultations informed the revision
• Board Policy Review of new or revised board policies
• Board Governance Handbook Review
• Board Discussion session

The Board of Education conducted a policy review and a work session regarding revisions to the Smart Start Plan "Red Operations." The minutes record no formal votes or substantive decisions.

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee is meeting to discuss the superintendent search timeline presented by Steve Lowder, review and revise a stakeholder list, and plan next steps including brochure development and advertising.

• Committee to review new superintendent search timeline from Steve Lowder
• Discussion of stakeholder recommendations from Oct. 6 work session
• Planning for brochure, advertisement, and stakeholder meetings

The committee approved the notes from the October 5, 2020 meeting. Members discussed the hiring timeline and the use of a Survey Monkey platform to collect stakeholder input.

• Approved notes from Oct. 5, 2020 meeting

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education will swear in newly elected members and elect officers for the 2020-2021 term. The meeting also includes school reports, financial updates, and a consent agenda review.

• Oath of office for Jason Tauriainen, Penny Vadla, Virginia Morgan, and Debbie Cary
• Election of Board President, Vice President, Clerk, and Treasurer
• School report for Aurora Borealis by Mr. Cody McCanna
• School report for Paul Banks Elementary by Mr. Eric Pederson
• Budget transfer 105 of $145,000 to move student activity travel funds to school locations

The Board of Education elected its officers and administered oaths of office to four new members. The board approved several personnel contracts, budget transfers over $50,000, and the FY20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. Two Memorandums of Agreement were passed to address administrator evaluations and sick leave donations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Elected Zen Kelly (President), Debbie Cary (Vice President), Jason Tauriainen (Clerk), and Mike Illg (Treasurer)
• Approved budget transfers in excess of $50,000 (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 New Teacher and Temporary Retired Teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved various unpaid leave of absence requests and one rescission (9-0)
• Approved 2020-2021 Board Member Committee Assignments (9-0)
• Accepted the FY20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (9-0)
• Approved MOA with Kenai Peninsula Administrators Association regarding administrator evaluations (9-0)
• Approved MOA with Kenai Peninsula Educational Support Association for sick leave donations (9-0)

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Information Committee meets to discuss the superintendent search, COVID-19 communications, and budget and finance matters. The meeting also includes procedural items such as roll call, approval of October meeting notes, and adjournment.

• Discussion on superintendent search
• Discussion on COVID-19 communications
• Discussion on budget and finance
• Approval of notes from October 5, 2020 meeting

The committee approved the notes from the October 5, 2020 meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of updates regarding the superintendent search, COVID communications, and the status of the Annual Report.

• Approved Oct. 5, 2020 meeting notes

Board of Education Special Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting to discuss employee contract negotiations in executive session. The board approved the agenda and voted unanimously to enter executive session for this purpose. The meeting is conducted virtually with public call-in access.

• Approval of agenda as presented
• Motion to enter executive session for employee contract negotiations carried unanimously (9-0)
• Adjournment of executive session and full meeting

The Board of Education met in a special session to discuss employee contract bargaining. The meeting consisted of an executive session and no other substantive actions were recorded.

• Approved entering executive session to discuss employee contract bargaining (9-0)
• Approved adjourning the executive session (9-0)

Board of Education Policy Review Committee Meeting

The Policy Review Committee will discuss proposed changes to BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct, a Title IX policy addressing adult-on-student behavior, and consider repealing AR 2121 Superintendents Contract to allow more flexible negotiations. The meeting also includes procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and approval of previous minutes.

• Review of BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct, with markup and clean copies provided
• Discussion on repealing AR 2121 Superintendents Contract to streamline salary negotiations
• Approval of notes from the Oct. 6, 2020 meeting

The Board of Education Policy Review Committee approved the meeting agenda and the notes from October 6, 2020. The committee agreed to move the removal of AR 2121 Superintendent Contract to a first reading.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved October 6, 2020 meeting notes as printed
• Agreed to move removal of AR 2121 Superintendent Contract to first reading

Board of Education Work Sessions

The board will receive updates on COVID-19 risk levels, vulnerable student services, and case/quarantine data. It will discuss possibly expanding red operations to include 1st and 2nd graders, with surveys and medical advisory input. The board also reviews FY22 budget calendar, FY20 financial report with unqualified audit, and superintendent search progress.

• Update on COVID-19 risk levels and impact on KPBSD schools, including positive cases and quarantines
• Discussion of expanding red/high-risk operations to potentially include 1st and 2nd grade students
• Review of FY22 Preliminary Budget Development Calendar
• Presentation of FY20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report with unqualified opinion and no audit findings
• Update on Superintendent Search Committee progress

The Board of Education conducted work sessions to review the Fall 2020 Pandemic Response Plan, the FY22 budget development calendar, and the FY20 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report. The board also received an update on the Superintendent search. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Board of Education Finance Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Finance Committee will discuss FY21 foundation formula revenue based on student counts as of October 22, 2020, and review fund balances from FY12 through unaudited FY20. The committee will also examine Kenai Peninsula Borough sales tax effects on funding and compare FY19–FY20 costs for pools, room use, theaters, and utilities. No votes are scheduled; this is a discussion-only meeting.

• Review of FY21 Foundation Revenue with student counts as of 10/22/20
• Fund balance review from FY12 through unaudited FY20 (audit expected later that evening)
• Discussion of Kenai Peninsula Borough sales tax impact on school funding
• Comparison of FY19–FY20 costs for pools, room use, theaters, and utilities

The committee approved the notes from the October 5, 2020 meeting. The remainder of the meeting consisted of administrative presentations and requests for further information regarding budget reductions and intensive needs funding.

• Approved October 5, 2020 meeting notes

Board of Education Policy Review Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Policy Review Committee will discuss and consider two new policies: BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct, addressing Title IX adult-on-student behaviors, and AR 3311 Bids, which proposes raising the formal bid threshold from $15,000 to $50,000 to match board policy. The meeting is open to the public via in-person attendance or remote participation.

• Review of BP 4119.15 Sexual Misconduct, a Title IX policy addressing adult-on-student behaviors
• Discussion of AR 3311 Bids, proposing to increase the formal bid threshold to $50,000
• Approval of previous meeting notes from September 14, 2020
• Committee members include Chair Debbie Cary, Mike Illg, Matt Morse, Virginia Morgan, Dave Jones, and Sarge Truesdell

The Policy Review Committee discussed updates to sexual misconduct policies and bid requirements. The committee recommended a first reading of the updated bid requirements at the November meeting.

• Approved agenda
• Approved notes
• Recommended first reading of AR 3311 Bids (increasing bid requirement from $15,000 to $50,000) for November meeting

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will hold two work sessions: first, receiving updates on the district's COVID-19 pandemic response plan, including Smart Start plan revisions, contact tracing, enrollment numbers, and risk level guidance. Second, they will meet with the firm McPherson & Jacobson, LLC regarding the superintendent search.

• Fall 2020 COVID-19 pandemic response updates, including Smart Start plan revisions
• Discussion of contact tracing collaboration with public health and symptom-free protocols
• Update on Eastern Peninsula/Seward positive student cases and remote learning
• Updated enrollment numbers presented by Assistant Superintendent Dave Jones
• Board to meet superintendent search firm McPherson & Jacobson, LLC

The Board of Education held work sessions to review COVID-19 pandemic response updates and define the desired characteristics for a new superintendent. Members identified key leadership qualities and listed community stakeholder groups for outreach. No formal votes were taken.

Board of Education Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education will hold a regular meeting on October 5, 2020. The board will consider approval of a budget transfer exceeding $50,000 for Middle College supplies and professional services, as well as a consent agenda including unpaid leave of absence requests for two teachers and a resolution designating primary and alternate members for school gaming permits. Public comments and a school report from Susan B. English are also scheduled.

• Budget transfer 117 over $50,000 for Middle College supplies and pro/tech services
• Unpaid leave of absence for Kimberly Hays (Ninilchik School) through end of 2020-21 school year
• Unpaid leave of absence for Effimia Reutov (Kachemak-Selo School) through first semester 2020-21
• Resolution 20-21-2 designating primary and alternate members for school gaming permits
• School report from Susan B. English presented by Mr. Jeff Ambrosier

The Board of Education approved the 2021 State and Federal Legislative Priorities and two Memoranda of Agreement regarding employee evaluations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The board also approved several personnel contracts and budget transfers via a consent agenda.

• Approved 2021 State and Federal Legislative Priorities (9-0)
• Approved teacher evaluation agreement with Kenai Peninsula Education Association (9-0)
• Approved classified employee evaluation agreement with Kenai Peninsula Educational Support Association (9-0)
• Approved budget transfers exceeding $50,000 (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 20-21-1 designating Gaming Permit members (9-0)
• Approved Tegan Retzer and Olivia Davis as student representatives (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 new, long-term substitute, and temporary retired teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved nomination of Penny Vadla to the Association of Alaska School Boards Board of Directors (9-0)

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board reviewed FY20 health‑care finances, including reserve fund balances and the decision to keep the current self‑funded plan after a 9‑0 advisory vote. It set the FY21 employee contribution at $392.44 per month, a 6.15% increase. The session also provided updates on the science curriculum revision, 2021 legislative priorities, and the SIT and RISE student programs.

• Advisory 9‑0 vote to remain on the current self‑funded health‑care plan
• FY21 employee health‑care contribution set at $392.44 per month (6.15% increase)
• Science curriculum revision to align with new Alaska State Science Standards
• Board to finalize 2021 State and Federal Legislative Priorities
• Updates on SIT (Students in Transition) and RISE programs serving homeless and at‑risk students

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee

The committee will review its task and move forward with a planning session with McPherson & Jacobson LLC. to develop a superintendent search plan. It will also approve minutes from a prior meeting and consider an information request.

• Planning session with McPherson & Jacobson LLC. for the superintendent search
• Approval of notes from September 29, 2020 meeting
• Discussion of an information request

The committee approved the notes from the September 29, 2020 meeting. Members reviewed a superintendent salary comparison and discussed the search timeline with McPherson & Jacobson LLC.

• Approved Sept 29, 2020 notes as presented

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Information Committee will approve the September 14, 2020 meeting notes. It will discuss communication plans for the 2020‑2021 fall school restart amid COVID‑19. The committee will review proposed 2021 state and federal legislative priorities for public education, funding, and pandemic response. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment.

• Approval of notes from the September 14, 2020 meeting
• Fall communications discussion for the 2020‑2021 school restart
• Review of 2021 state legislative priorities (education funding, hold‑harmless funding, school climate)
• Review of 2021 federal legislative priorities (COVID‑19 response, Title program funding, school climate)
• Adjournment of the meeting

The committee approved the notes from the September 14, 2020 meeting. Members discussed fall communications and the need to edit state and federal legislative priorities during a subsequent work session.

• Approved September 14, 2020 notes as presented

Board of Education Charter School Oversight Committee Meeting

The Charter School Oversight Committee will approve notes from the October 7, 2019 meeting and discuss how charter schools are funded through the Foundation Formula, the reserves they may retain, and how student enrollment numbers could affect their budgets.

• Approval of notes from the October 7, 2019 meeting
• Discussion of charter school funding via the Foundation Formula
• Review of reserve policies for charter schools
• Examination of enrollment numbers and potential budget effects

The committee reviewed a presentation on estimated funding for KPBSD Charter Schools. No substantive policy or budget decisions were made during the meeting.

• Approved previous meeting notes as presented

Board of Education Finance Committee Meeting

The Finance Committee of the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education discussed the FY21 estimated student count, which shows a loss of $1,813,855 in projected foundation funding due to enrollment declines. They also reviewed a Budget Cut Tier List from FY20 to address the current year deficit and discussed the Fund Balance policy. No votes were taken; these items were for discussion only.

• FY21 student count of 6,041 in-person/remote and 1,771 homeschool students results in $1,813,855 foundation funding loss
• Student count is 21.55% below last year, potentially activating the Hold Harmless provision (AS 14.17.410)
• Review of Budget Cut Tier List from FY20 to identify possible reductions for current year deficit
• Discussion of Fund Balance policy
• Committee members requested information for next meeting

The committee reviewed the FY21 Estimated Student Count and the FY20 budget cut tier list. No substantive policy changes or funding allocations were decided during the meeting.

• Approved previous meeting notes

Board of Education Special Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education is holding a special meeting solely to convene an executive session under Alaska Statute 44.62.310(c) to discuss employee contract negotiations. No other business is scheduled; the public may attend the open portion but the substantive discussion will be closed.

• Motion to enter executive session to discuss employee contract negotiations, citing potential adverse financial impact if discussed publicly

The Board of Education held a special meeting to enter an executive session. The session was used to discuss preparations for employee contract bargaining.

• Approved motion to enter executive session for employee contract bargaining (9-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn executive session (9-0)

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee is meeting with the executive search firm McPherson & Jacobson, LLC to discuss the timeline for hiring a new superintendent and the format of upcoming October 5 and 6 meetings. The committee will also review recent search history and approve meeting notes from earlier sessions.

• Meeting with search firm McPherson & Jacobson, LLC for superintendent hiring process
• Discussion of timeline for hiring a new superintendent
• Planning format for October 5 and 6 meetings
• Review of recent superintendent search history by the district
• Approval of notes from September 2 and September 10, 2020 meetings

The committee approved the notes from September 2 and September 10, 2020. Members met with representatives from McPherson & Jacobson, LLC to discuss search timelines and meeting formats. The committee requested superintendent compensation parameters.

• Approved notes from 9-2-2020 and 9-10-2020

Board of Education Meeting *REVISED

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education voted to approve a consent agenda including unpaid leaves for a teacher and two custodians, and a long-term substitute contract. They also received presentations on school reports and July finance reports.

• Approved unpaid leave for Jennifer Booz, science teacher at Homer Middle School, effective Jan 1, 2021 through remainder of 2020-21 school year
• Approved unpaid leave for April Hayes, Head Custodian I at Sterling Elementary, effective Aug 17, 2020 to end of 2020-21
• Approved unpaid leave for David Hernandez, Head Custodian III at Nikiski Middle/High School, effective Aug 24, 2020 to June 1, 2021
• Approved long-term substitute teacher contract for Sherry Pederson at West Homer Elementary
• Received July Finance Reports for 2020-21 fiscal year

The Board approved the McPherson & Jacobson proposal to conduct a search for a new superintendent. Additionally, the Board approved Memorandums of Agreement with KPEA and KPESA to allow employees more flexibility to access unpaid leave during the pandemic. The Board also approved several teacher contracts and leave requests.

• Approved McPherson & Jacobson executive search proposal for Superintendent search (9-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Kenai Peninsula Educational Support Association for unpaid leave flexibility (9-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Kenai Peninsula Education Association for unpaid leave flexibility (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 New Teacher Contract(s) (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 Long-Term Substitute Teacher Contract(s) (9-0)
• Approved unpaid leave of absence requests for certified and support staff (9-0)
• Approved August 3, 2020 meeting minutes

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Information Committee met on September 14, 2020. The committee discussed fall communications for the 2020‑21 restart, received a briefing on the 2019‑2020 annual report, and reviewed draft state and federal legislative priorities for 2021. Those legislative priorities will be presented to the full board for action at the October 5, 2020 meeting.

• Fall Communications Discussion – risk levels, Smart Start plan, and 2020‑21 Fall Restart communication
• 2019‑2020 Annual Report Update – briefing by Ms. Erkeneff
• Review of 2021 State and Federal Legislative Priorities – education funding, hold‑harmless funding, SEL, COVID‑19 response, Title program funding
• Approval of notes from the November 15, 2018 meeting

The committee approved the notes from the August 3, 2020 meeting. Members discussed fall communications, the 2019-2020 Annual Report, and 2021 state and federal legislative priorities.

• Approved August 3, 2020 meeting notes

Board of Education Finance Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Finance Committee will discuss the first 10-day student enrollment count for 2020, which affects state funding. Members will review Alaska Statute 14.17.410 on public school funding, the FY21 foundation formula with a hold harmless calculation, and the Kenai Peninsula Borough's estimated minimum and maximum funding caps. The committee will also examine the unaudited fund balance from FY12 through FY20.

• First 10-day student count for 2020 affecting enrollment-based funding
• Review of Alaska Statute 14.17.410 on public school funding
• FY21 foundation formula with hold harmless calculation
• FY21 revised minimum and maximum funding cap amounts from the borough
• Fund balance from FY12 through FY20 (unaudited)

The committee approved the notes from the May 6, 2020 meeting. Members received presentations on student counts, public school funding, and fund balances, and requested information regarding committed fund balances and mid-year reductions.

• Approved May 6, 2020 meeting notes

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board will discuss new or revised board policies. It will receive updates on the fall 2020 pandemic school start‑up, including instructional plans, COVID‑19 data, pool and facility status, and CARES Act funding. The board will also consider AASB resolutions, 2021 state and federal legislative priorities, the Kachemak‑Selo school grant fund request, and an update on the superintendent search.

• Board Policy Review – discussion of new or revised policies
• Fall 2020 Pandemic School Start‑Up and Pools and Facilities Updates – instructional updates, COVID‑19 risk data, pool status, CARES Act funding plan
• AASB Resolutions – final discussion of 2020‑21 Association of Alaska School Boards resolutions
• State and Federal Legislative Priorities – presentation of 2021 education‑related priorities
• Kachemak‑Selo School Grant Funds – possible legislative transfer of grant funds to DCCED and related bond package timing

The Board of Education conducted a work session to discuss COVID-19 mitigation plans, facility usage, and legislative priorities. No formal votes or decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Education Special Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education held a special meeting primarily to enter executive session. The board voted unanimously to discuss employee contract negotiations in private, citing Alaska statute for matters affecting district finances. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Board voted 9-0 to enter executive session for employee contract negotiations

The Board of Education convened for a special meeting to enter an executive session. The session was held to discuss employee contract negotiations.

• Approved motion to enter executive session for employee contract negotiations (9-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn executive session (9-0)

Board of Education Policy Review Committee Meeting

The Policy Review Committee will meet to review and potentially revise several district policies. Items include a recommendation to remove 'as required by law' from the health examinations regulation due to a repealed state statute, as well as reviews of Policy Section 0000 (Philosophy-Goals-Objectives) and Section 6000 (Instruction). The meeting is open to the public via phone or Zoom.

• AR 4112.4 Health Examinations: recommendation to remove 'as required by law' because Alaska Statute 4 AAC 06.050 was repealed in August 2017
• 2020-21 Board Policy Revision Section 0000: Philosophy-Goals-Objectives and Comprehensive Plans
• 2020-21 Board Policy Revision Section 6000: Instruction

The Board of Education Policy Review Committee met to review the policy revision schedule and one specific administrative regulation. The committee recommended a change to the language regarding health examinations.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved June 1, 2020 meeting notes
• Recommended removing 'required by law' from AR 4112.4 - Health Examinations

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee Meeting

The Superintendent Search Oversight Committee will review submitted proposals from firms interested in conducting the search for a new KPBSD superintendent. The committee has been developing the search timeline and criteria over prior meetings. This meeting includes approval of previous notes and discussion of information requests, but the primary business is evaluating the search firm proposals.

• Review of submitted search firm proposals for superintendent selection
• Discussion of the RFP process and criteria for selecting a search firm (previously covered)
• Approval of meeting notes from August 3, 2020

The Superintendent Search Oversight Committee reviewed proposals and scored responses to additional questions. Based on these scores, the committee recommended McPherson and Jacobson, LLC as the highest scoring proposer.

• Approved notes from 8-3-2020
• Recommended McPherson and Jacobson, LLC as the search firm

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

This meeting of the Board of Education Information Committee will discuss communication strategies for the 2020-2021 fall restart, review the 2019-2020 annual report, and consider the 2020-2021 communication plan. No binding votes are taken; the committee focuses on information and recommendations.

• Discussion of 2020-2021 Fall Restart communication update
• Briefing on the 2019-2020 Annual Report by Ms. Erkeneff
• Discussion of the 2020-2021 Communication Plan

The meeting scheduled for August 3, 2020, was canceled due to lack of time. No decisions were made.

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee is meeting to finalize the Request for Proposals (RFP) for selecting a superintendent search firm. The committee will also review AR 2122 (Superintendent Job Description) and AR 2121 (Superintendent's Contract). Previous meeting notes from July 21, 2020, are slated for approval.

• Review and finalize RFQ for superintendent search firm
• Discuss AR 2122: Superintendent of Schools Job Description
• Discuss AR 2121: Superintendent's Contract language
• Approve notes from July 21, 2020 meeting
• Update on search timeline and community survey

The committee approved the notes from the July 21, 2020 meeting. Members discussed planning for the superintendent search, including potential search firms and a date change for agency notifications.

• Approved notes from 7-21-2020 meeting

Board of Education Special Meeting

The board approved its agenda and then moved into a closed executive session to discuss preparation for employee contract bargaining, a matter that could affect district finances. The executive session was later adjourned and the meeting was formally closed.

• Approve agenda as presented
• Executive session to discuss employee contract bargaining
• Adjourn executive session
• Adjourn meeting

The Board of Education held a special meeting to enter an executive session. The session was used to discuss preparations for employee contract bargaining.

• Approved motion to enter executive session for employee contract bargaining (9-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn executive session (9-0)

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will discuss updates regarding the KPBSD Smart Start 2020 Plan, including face covering requirements and school nurse coverage. Members will also review various resolutions and discuss how to format future public meetings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• KPBSD Smart Start 2020 Plan updates
• School nurse vacancies and building coverage plans
• Review of multiple resolution documents
• Discussion on future in-person meeting options per CDC guidelines

The Board of Education held work sessions to review policies, the superintendent search process, and COVID-19 mitigation plans for school reopening. No formal votes were recorded during these work sessions.

• Discussed revisions to Board policies including Suicide Prevention
• Reviewed RFQ and timeline for superintendent search
• Discussed nursing MOA rate of pay increase funded by Cares funding
• Reviewed hold harmless funding resolution
• Discussed face covering requirements based on DHSS and DEED input
• Reviewed school start-up poll results showing 63.95% in-school preference
• Discussed COVID-19 liability insurance and athletics status
• Proposed moving September board meeting to Kenai Central High School

Board of Education Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board met to approve new and retired teacher contracts for the 2020-21 school year. The board also considered a proposed agreement to increase licensed nurse wages by $5.00 per hour to address staffing shortages during the pandemic. Routine budget transfers and school reports were reviewed for informational purposes.

• Approval of nine 2020-21 new teacher contracts for district positions
• Approval of one 2020-21 temporary contract for retired teacher Steven Evans
• Proposed MOA to increase licensed nurse wages by $5.00 per hour for 2020-21
• Review of the Fourth Quarter 2020 budget transfer report
• Public comment protocols and hybrid meeting logistics

The Board of Education approved a $5.00 per hour wage increase for school nurses and a Memorandum of Agreement to maintain health and safety during the pandemic. The board also approved several policy updates and relocated future meetings to Kenai Central High School.

• Approved $5.00 per hour nurse wage increase for 2020-2021 (9-0)
• Approved MOA with KPESA to prioritize health, safety and welfare during pandemic (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 New Teacher and Temporary Retired Teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved AR 4111.3 School Attendance-Staff Dependents (9-0)
• Approved BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention (9-0)
• Approved BP 3510 Business & Instructional Support Operations (9-0)
• Approved Resolution 20-21-1 FY 21 Hold Harmless Funding (9-0)
• Approved moving future board meetings to Kenai Central High School (9-0)

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee

The Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee will review the RFP process for selecting a search firm, discuss superintendent qualities and characteristics, and develop a tentative hiring timeline. The committee will also hear an overview from KPBSD Human Resources Director Nate Crabtree and consider community survey feedback.

• Overview of RFP process and criteria for selecting a search firm (BP 3311, AR 3311)
• Discussion of superintendent qualities and community survey draft
• Development of tentative hiring timeline for superintendent
• Approval of notes from July 14, 2020 meeting
• Review of questions and criteria for selecting a search firm

The committee approved the meeting notes from July 14, 2020. Members discussed the RFP process, potential budget thresholds for quotes, and updates to the community survey and search brochure. No final decisions were made on the hiring timeline or contract recommendations.

• Approved notes from 7-14-2020

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee

The Superintendent Search Oversight Committee will discuss revised plans for the superintendent search, including strategies and next steps. The committee will also approve minutes from the June 30 meeting and review policy documents and a previous search brochure.

• Approval of notes from June 30, 2020 meeting
• Discussion of revised superintendent search planning
• Review of BP 2120 Superintendent of Schools and AR 2122 Superintendent Job Description
• Reference to 2019 Kenai superintendent search brochure

The committee approved the meeting notes from June 30, 2020. Members discussed the potential use of an outside firm for the superintendent search. Mr. Crabtree will provide information on the RFP process and interested firms at the next meeting.

• Approved notes from 6-30-2020 meeting

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Information Committee is meeting on July 13, 2020. Items include approval of previous meeting notes, discussion of the 2020-2021 Fall Restart communication, a briefing on the 2019-2020 Annual Report, and discussion of the 2020-2021 Communication Plan.

• Approval of notes from June 1, 2020 meeting
• Discussion of 2020-2021 Fall Restart communication
• Briefing on 2019-2020 Annual Report by Ms. Erkeneff
• Discussion of 2020-2021 Communication Plan

The committee approved the notes from the June 1, 2020 meeting. Members discussed the 2020-2021 fall restart, the status of the annual report, and communication plans for parents regarding education methods.

• Approved notes from June 1, 2020 meeting

Board of Education Meeting

The board will vote on consent agenda items including budget transfers over $50,000 for Fireweed Academy and Kaleidoscope School, as well as tentative tenure and new teacher contracts for the 2020-21 school year. They will also receive May finance reports and hear committee and board reports.

• Budget transfers over $50,000: transfer 874 for Fireweed Academy salaries and benefits, transfer 927 for carpet installation at Kaleidoscope School
• Approval of 2020-21 tentative tenure teacher contract for George Skraba Reising (Connections Program)
• Approval of 2020-21 new teacher contracts for six teachers including Gia Baker, Rene Benner, Alexandra Bergholtz, and Bailey Bremner
• May finance reports presented for review

The Board of Education approved a preliminary budget revision for FY21 and established goals for the 2020-2021 period. The board also approved teacher contracts and budget transfers via a consent agenda. District leadership provided updates on the Smart Start 2020 plan for school reopening.

• Approved FY21 Preliminary Budget Revision for $145,535,841 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2020-2021 Board Goals (Unanimous)
• Approved budget transfers over $50,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2020-21 Tentative Tenure Teacher Contracts (Unanimous)
• Approved 2020-21 New Teacher Contracts (Unanimous)
• Approved June 1, 2020 meeting minutes

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education will hold a work session to review several policies, discuss 2020-2021 board goals, and consider the Fall 2020 Smart Start plan for school reopening amid COVID-19. The board will also review a revised FY21 budget that projects a $5.8 million use of fund balance due to reduced state and borough revenue. Additionally, they will receive an update on the superintendent search.

• FY21 budget revision: $139.7M revenue, $145.5M expenditures, requiring $5.8M from fund balance
• Fall 2020 Smart Start plan for school reopening under low, medium, high COVID-19 transmission scenarios
• Review of policies: AR 4111.3 (staff dependents attendance), BP 5141.52 (suicide prevention), BP 3510 (business & instruction support)
• Discussion of 2020-2021 board goals
• Superintendent search committee update

The Board held a work session to review draft goals for 2020-2021, the revised 2020 Fall Smart Start Plan, and preliminary FY21 budget revisions. Members discussed the possibility of a four-day work week and the use of remote meeting technology. No formal votes were recorded.

Board of Education Superintendent Search Oversight Committee

The Superintendent Search Oversight Committee will meet to begin developing a plan for the search for the next superintendent. This is the initial planning meeting. The meeting is hybrid virtual with public listen-only access.

• Developing a plan for superintendent search

The Superintendent Search Oversight Committee unanimously supported using Human Resources to search for an outside firm to lead the superintendent search. The committee discussed using RFPs for firms both within and outside of Alaska. Members will work on a job description and search criteria to refine the process.

• Unanimously supported Human Resources moving forward to search for an outside firm

June 2, 2020 Board of Education Planning Session

The Board will discuss an administrative update on the district's strategic plan implementation. Members will complete a self‑evaluation for the 2019‑2020 year. The board will review its 2019‑2020 goals and develop new goals for the 2020‑2021 school year, including topics such as COVID‑19 response, superintendent hiring, and bargaining agreements.

• Administrative update on strategic plan progress (Ready, Rigor, Relevance, Responsiveness)
• Board self‑evaluation for 2019‑2020 (completed by eight board members)
• Review of 2019‑2020 board goals
• Development of 2020‑2021 board goals (COVID‑19 response, superintendent search, bargaining agreements)

The board held a planning session to discuss the district's strategic plan, review progress on 2019-2020 goals, and refine draft goals for the upcoming school year. No formal votes were recorded; the session focused on discussion regarding personalized learning, facility partnerships, and pandemic response.

• Discussed postponing the bond package until fall 2021
• Proposed adding partnerships, communication, and research-based decisions to 2020-2021 Goal 1
• Proposed adding community survey as a priority bullet to 2020-2021 Goal 2
• Discussed establishing a district team for less contentious contract bargaining for 2020-2021 Goal 3

June 1, 2020 Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education is meeting to consider consent agenda items including a long-term substitute teacher contract and two new administrator contracts. They will also receive reports on April finances and current lease agreements, and present Golden Apple Awards. The meeting is held virtually due to COVID-19.

• Approval of long-term substitute teacher contract for Sherry Pederson at West Homer Elementary
• Approval of 2020-21 new administrator contracts: Amy Hagen (Director, Student Support Services) and Jessica Scogin (Coordinator, Federal Programs & Assessment)
• Report on lease agreements: Boys & Girls Club ($850/month), Kachemak Selo School ($2,790 and $1,350/month), Razdolna School ($4,469.70/month), Voznesenka School ($7,035.21/month)
• April finance reports presented to board
• Golden Apple Awards presented to Margaret Griffin, Sharon Hale, and Red Asselin Martin

The Board of Education approved the Six Year Plan for 2022 to 2027 and the 2020-2021 KPSAA High School and Middle School handbooks. Through a consent agenda, the board also approved several teacher and administrator contracts, a budget revision for FY20, and a pay schedule for temporary employees.

• Approved Six Year Plan for the Years 2022 to 2027 (7-1)
• Approved KPSAA High School and Middle School handbooks for SY 2020-2021 (8-0)
• Approved 2019-20 Long-Term Substitute Teacher Contract(s) (8-0)
• Approved 2020-21 New Administrator Contract(s) (8-0)
• Approved 2020-21 New Teacher Contract(s) (8-0)
• Approved 2020-21 Tentative Non-Tenure Teacher Contract(s) (8-0)
• Approved requests for unpaid leave of absence (8-0)
• Approved FY20 Budget Revision (8-0)

Board of Education Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee will continue its ongoing review of several policies, including BP 5141.42 on professional boundaries between staff and students, AR 4111.3 on staff dependents' school attendance, and BP 5141.51/5141.52 on at-risk students and suicide prevention. These items have been postponed from previous meetings and returned for additional work. The meeting is held virtually due to COVID-19.

• Continue review of BP 5141.42, AR 5141.42, E 5141.42a and E 5141.42b on professional boundaries of staff with students
• Consider proposed AR 4111.3 School Attendance-Staff Dependents (tabled for legal opinion regarding charter schools)
• Discuss developing KPBSD policies on suicide prevention (BP 5141.52) and at-risk students (BP 5141.51) using AASB model policies
• Review BP 3510 Business and Noninstructional Operations Maintenance

The committee recommended moving the School Attendance-Staff Dependents policy forward to a July 13, 2020 board meeting. Other policies regarding suicide prevention and maintenance were moved to work sessions, while the at-risk students policy was tabled.

• Recommended AR 4111.3 School Attendance-Staff Dependents move to July 13, 2020 board meeting
• Moved BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention to work session
• Tabled BP 5141.51 At-Risk Students
• Recommended BP 3510 Business and Noninstructional Operations MAINTENANCE move to work session
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved May 6, 2020 meeting notes as printed

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Information Committee will approve the notes from the March 3, 2020 meeting. It will receive an update on the 2020‑2021 Fall Restart communication. The committee will be briefed on the 2019‑2020 Annual Report and discuss the 2020‑2021 Communication Plan.

• Approve notes from the March 3, 2020 meeting
• Discuss 2020‑2021 Fall Restart communication update
• Briefing on the 2019‑2020 Annual Report
• Discuss the 2020‑2021 Communication Plan

The committee approved the notes from the March 3, 2020 meeting. Members discussed the 2020-2021 Fall Restart planning, the 2019-2020 Annual Report, and the 2020-2021 Communication Plan.

• Approved March 3, 2020 meeting notes with attendance changes

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will discuss the 2020-2021 fall restart progress using the Alaska Smart Start Framework. Discussion items also include substitute pay rates, board policy reviews, and proposed KPSAA handbook changes.

• 2020-21 Pay Rates for Substitutes and Temporary Employees
• 2020 Fall Smart Start Work Group update regarding school restart scenarios
• KPSAA Handbook 2020-2021 updates for final approval
• Board Policy Review

The Board held work sessions to review recommended pay rate increases for substitutes and temporary employees and received an update on the 2020 Fall Smart Start Work group. No formal votes were taken during this session.

• Discussed recommended 2020-21 pay rate increases for substitutes and temporary employees
• Reviewed 2020 Fall Smart Start Work group update regarding school reopening
• Reviewed KPSAA Handbook updates

Board of Education Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will receive updates on bond proposals, CARES Act funding, and the FY21 budget. The updated FY21 budget shows a $5.685 million deficit, requiring the use of all unassigned fund balance. The committee will also discuss CARES Act estimated revenues of $2.3 million for the district and $13.17 million for the Kenai Peninsula Borough in Community Assistance Payments.

• Bond Proposals Update as preparation for a work session
• CARES Act estimated revenue: $2,295,953 for KPBSD; $13,167,154 for KPB Community Assistance Payments
• FY21 preliminary budget with $50,000,000 from Kenai Peninsula Borough (Resolution 2020-027)
• FY21 budget deficit of $5,685,911 requiring use of all unassigned fund balance
• Revised revenue total $139,744,457; expenditures total $145,430,368

Board of Education Hearing REVISED

The Board of Education is holding a confidential informal hearing on the non-retention of a nontenured teacher. The hearing is closed to the public and follows a structured format with presentations and rebuttals from the district and the teacher.

• Confidential hearing regarding non-retention of a nontenured teacher
• Hearing closed to the public

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will hold a work session covering multiple topics: the FY21 budget update showing a $5.7 million deficit that would deplete all unassigned fund balance; the start of a superintendent search as John O'Brien intends to retire in June 2021; the six-year capital plan requiring a 35% local match; proposed handbook changes for middle and high school athletics; and an update on homeschooling trends. The board is also set to discuss bond proposals and general board discussion.

• FY21 budget deficit of $5,685,911, requiring use of all unassigned fund balance; borough funding set at $50 million
• Superintendent search oversight committee appointed; board to guide salary and timeline for 2021-2022
• Six-year capital plan priorities (FY2022-2027) discussed; 35% local match needed for state grants
• Proposed KPSAA handbook changes: middle school track medals reduced from 6 to 3 places, volleyball rules updated
• CARES Act funding estimated at $2,295,953 for KPBSD; $30 million state one-time funding vetoed by governor

Board of Education Policy Review Committee

The Board of Education Policy Review Committee will handle routine items such as call to order, roll call, agenda approval, and approval of March 2, 2020 notes. It will continue work on BP 5141.42 and related attachments that address professional boundaries between staff and students. The committee will also review the proposed AR 4111.3 school attendance‑staff dependents policy and examine model policies for at‑risk students (BP 5141.51) and suicide prevention (BP 5141.52). No final decisions are indicated; the meeting focuses on discussion and further development of these policies.

• Review of BP 5141.42, AR 5141.42, E 5141.42a, E 5141.42b professional boundaries policies
• Review of AR 4111.3 school attendance‑staff dependents policy
• Review of BP 5141.51 at‑risk students and BP 5141.52 suicide prevention model policies
• Approval of agenda
• Approval of March 2, 2020 meeting notes

Board of Education Meeting

The Board will act on consent agenda items including long-term substitute and non-tenure teacher contracts for 2020-21, and review February and March finance reports and third-quarter budget transfers. The meeting is held virtually due to the pandemic.

• Approval of long-term substitute teacher contracts for Steven Evans (Soldotna Elementary) and Judith Shields (Soldotna Montessori)
• Approval of tentative non-tenure teacher contracts for 2020-21
• Review of February and March Finance Reports
• Third Quarter Budget Transfer Report
• Meeting conducted as hybrid virtual meeting only

KPBSD Board of Education and KPB Joint Budget Work Session

The KPBSD Board of Education and Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly will hold a joint work session to discuss the FY21 Budget and Bond Proposals. No formal decisions are expected; this is a discussion-only meeting.

• Joint discussion of the FY21 Budget and Bond Proposals

Board of Education Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education approved a consent agenda that includes a revised administrative regulation on student assessment (AR 5121), new administrator and teacher contracts, long-term substitute teacher contracts, and unpaid leave requests. The board also approved the 2020-2021 tentative board meeting dates. A report from the state Commissioner of Education was presented telephonically.

• Approved AR 5121 Assessment (Evaluation of Student Achievement) after policy review committee revisions
• Approved 2020-21 new administrator contract for Tabitha Blades as Assistant Principal at Soldotna High School
• Approved 2020-21 new teacher contracts for Sarah Boss (Homer High) and Karen Ruchti (Nikolaevsk School)
• Approved unpaid leaves of absence for two certified teachers for the 2020-21 school year
• Approved long-term substitute teacher contracts for five positions across the district

The Board of Education approved several personnel contracts, a student achievement assessment policy, and the 2020-2021 meeting schedule. The board also authorized a letter to Governor Dunleavy requesting he not veto FY21 one-time educational funding and bond debt reimbursement.

• Approved 2019-20 long-term substitute teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 new administrator contracts (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 new teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved unpaid leave of absence request for certified staff (9-0)
• Approved AR 5121 Assessment for Evaluation of Student Achievement (9-0)
• Approved 2020-2021 tentative board meeting dates (9-0)
• Approved change of date and location for May 2020 board meeting (9-0)
• Authorized letter to Governor Dunleavy regarding FY21 funding and bond debt reimbursement (9-0)

Board of Education and Borough Joint Budget Work Session

The Board of Education and Borough Assembly will hold a joint work session to discuss the Fiscal Year 2021 budget. Attached documents include a budget reductions history, a presentation, and special education enrollment data.

• Discussion of FY21 Budget with attached budget reductions history (83 KB)
• Joint Work Session Presentation (351 KB)
• Special Education Historical Enrollment Information (43 KB)

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Information Committee will discuss the 2020 bond proposal, review legislative priorities and current bills, and prepare for the upcoming AASB March Fly-In. They will also approve notes from the previous meeting and hear a recap of the February Fly-In.

• 2020 Bond Proposal discussion
• Legislative Priorities and Current Bills review
• AASB February Fly-In Recap
• Approval of minutes from 2-3-20
• AASB March Fly-In Preparation

The committee approved the notes from the February 3, 2020, meeting. Members discussed legislative priorities, the 2020 bond proposal, and preparations for the March AASB Fly-In.

• Approved Feb. 3, 2020, meeting notes

Board of Education Work Session

The Board will discuss solutions to the substitute teacher shortage, review outstanding agenda requests, receive information on Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and trauma-informed practices, and prepare for the AASB March Legislative Fly-In. The SEL discussion includes plans for elementary counselor positions starting Fall 2020 and partnerships with community mental health providers.

• Discuss possible solutions to increase substitute availability and decrease unfilled vacancies (includes revised pay schedule for subs/temps).
• Review and update the list of outstanding agenda items requested by board members.
• Focus on SEL and trauma-informed practices, including staff professional development and student trainings.
• Implementation of elementary school counselor positions in Fall 2020.
• Prepare for AASB March Legislative Fly-In (March 28-31, 2020).

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will discuss a preliminary FY21 budget showing $144.8 million in expenditures and a $2.26 million deficit, requiring use of fund balance. Other items include a proposed five-year lease extension for Voznesenka School at $6,897.26 per month, a revised social studies curriculum, and an administrative regulation on student assessment. All items are for discussion only; no votes are scheduled.

• FY21 preliminary budget: $144.8M expenditures, $2.26M deficit, use of $2.26M from fund balance
• Bond proposals for 2020 presented as laydown documents
• Voznesenka School five-year lease extension at $6,897.26/month with 2% annual increase plus water fee
• Social Studies Curriculum K-12 final draft revision for discussion
• AR 5121 Assessment (Evaluation of Student Achievement) revision recommended for approval

The Board reached a consensus to update the third paragraph of AR 5121 Assessment regarding parent contact. Other items including the social studies curriculum, Voznesenka School lease, and FY21 budget were listed as work sessions without recorded outcomes.

• Reached consensus to update AR 5121 Assessment (Evaluation of Student Achievement) 3rd paragraph regarding parent contact

Board of Education Policy Review Committee

The Board of Education Policy Review Committee will discuss several policies, including revisiting BP 5141.42 on professional boundaries of staff with students after it was returned for additional work. They will also consider a new policy on staff dependents' school attendance and review model policies on at-risk students and suicide prevention. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and an informational exhibit update.

• Revisiting BP 5141.42 Professional Boundaries of Staff with Students (previously recommended for approval but returned for additional work)
• Proposed AR 4111.3 School Attendance-Staff Dependents to create consistent practices and support employee recruitment
• Reviewing model policies for BP 5141.51 At-Risk Students and BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention from AASB and Anchorage School District
• Informational update: Exhibit 9000b Administrator Selection Process revised to update superintendent contact info

The committee accepted a revision to Exhibit 9000b regarding the Administrator Selection Process. Members began reviewing policies on professional boundaries between staff and students, with further research and a potential meeting on April 7. Two other policy items were postponed due to time constraints.

• Accepted revision to Exhibit 9000b Administrator Selection Process
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved Feb. 3, 2020 meeting notes as printed
• Postponed AR 4111.3 School Attendance-Staff Dependents
• Postponed BP 5141.51 At-Risk Students and BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention

Board of Education Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education is reviewing the FY21 preliminary budget, which projects a $2.26 million deficit requiring use of fund balance. Revenues total $142.5 million from state and local sources, while expenditures total $144.8 million. The board also discusses monthly finance reports, a school report from Sterling Elementary, and consent agenda items including budget transfers over $50,000.

• FY21 preliminary budget: $2,255,900 deficit, $144.8M total expenditures, requires $2.26M from fund balance
• Budget transfers over $50,000 on consent agenda (items 10.B–I)
• Golden Apple Award presentation to Mrs. Lynn Rickert
• Sterling Elementary school report by Ms. Denise Kelly
• January 2020 finance reports presented for review

The Board of Education approved a resolution to place an educational capital improvements bond on the October 2020 ballot. Other key actions included approving the 2020 Social Studies Curriculum Revision and extending the Voznesenka School lease. The board also approved various teacher contracts and budget transfers via a consent agenda.

• Adopted Resolution 19-20-3 to place educational capital improvements bond on October 2020 ballot (9-0)
• Approved 2020 Social Studies Curriculum Revision (9-0)
• Approved 5-year lease extension for Voznesenka School through June 30, 2025 (9-0)
• Approved budget transfers over $50,000 (9-0)
• Approved 2019-20 long-term substitute and new teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 new and tentative non-tenure teacher contracts (9-0)
• Approved requests for unpaid leave of absence and extension (9-0)
• Approved 2020-21 tentative non-tenure teacher contracts and tenure (8-0, 1 abstain)

Board of Education Finance Committee

The Board of Education Finance Committee will review the FY21 preliminary budget with comparisons to FY19 actuals, including bond schedules and a request for an additional special education teacher FTE. The meeting also includes procedural items such as roll call and approval of notes.

• Review FY21 Preliminary Budget by Category with Comparisons to FY19 Actuals (revised with LAYDOWN documents)
• Review of Bond 2020 Schedule and KPB/KPBSD bond documents
• Request for additional special education teacher FTE (full-time equivalent)
• Approval of notes from previous meeting

The committee reviewed the FY21 Preliminary Budget, including the addition of 3.5 FTE positions and a $2.5 million increase in fund balance usage. Members discussed the bond proposal list, which will be revised for a future business meeting.

• Approved Feb. 4, 2020 meeting notes

Board of Education Finance Committee

The Board of Education Finance Committee will meet to discuss alternative school schedules and receive an FY21 budget update on revenue, expenditures, and fund balance. The meeting also includes procedural items like roll call and approval of notes, as well as a segment for members to request information from administration.

• Discussion of alternative school schedules
• FY21 Budget Update on Revenue, Expenditures and Fund Balance (file attached)
• Information Requests to Administration for future meetings

The committee discussed alternative school schedules and requested a cost analysis from administration regarding a four-day school week. Members also reviewed updated FY21 budget information including elementary school counselor positions.

• Approved Jan. 13, 2020 meeting notes
• Requested administration compile cost analysis for four-day school week option

Board of Education and Borough Joint Budget Work Session

The Board of Education and Borough Assembly will hold a joint work session to discuss FY21 borough funding for education and a proposed fall 2020 school facilities bond package. No formal decisions are expected; this is a discussion to align priorities.

• Discussion of FY21 borough funding for education
• Proposed fall 2020 school facilities bond package
• Attached bond project list from KPB and KPBSD

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Board of Education Information Committee will meet to prepare for the AASB Legislative Fly-In, including planning communications with legislators. The committee will also discuss current education-related legislation. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily discussion and procedural.

• Prep for AASB Legislative Fly-In, including legislator communications
• Discussion of current education-related legislative bills

The committee approved the notes from the January 13, 2020, meeting. Members discussed preparations for the AASB Legislative Fly-In and reviewed education-related legislative bills. The committee recommended that the board support SB6 without the mandatory retention requirement.

• Approved January 13, 2020, meeting notes
• Recommended board support for SB6 without mandatory retention requirement

Board of Education Policy Review Committee

The Policy Review Committee will discuss revisions to AR 5121 on student assessment, review professional boundaries policies returned from a work session, consider a new policy on staff dependents' school attendance, and begin discussion on at-risk students and suicide prevention policies. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Review of AR 5121 Assessment to clarify grade-level applicability
• Four policies on professional boundaries of staff and students (BP 5141.42, AR 5141.42, E 5141.42a, E 5141.42b)
• Proposed AR 4111.3 School Attendance for staff dependents
• Discussion of model policies for at-risk students (BP 5141.51) and suicide prevention (BP 5141.52)
• Revision of Exhibit 9130c Information Committee to allow four board members

The committee accepted Exhibit 9130c without revision. AR 5121 regarding student achievement assessment was revised and moved to a March work session. Several other policy items were postponed due to lack of time.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved January 13, 2020 meeting notes as printed
• Accepted Exhibit 9130c Information Committee without revision
• Moved AR 5121 Assessment to March work session with revisions
• Postponed BP 5141.42, AR 5141.42, E 5141.42a and E 5141.42b
• Postponed AR 4111.3 School Attendance-Staff Dependents
• Postponed BP 5141.51 At-Risk Students and BP 5141.52 Suicide Prevention

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education holds a work session discussing a draft school bond proposal for fall 2020 to address deferred maintenance and capital repairs. Also on the agenda: policy review of facility use and student activity groups, an update on the healthcare plan effective January 1, 2020, training on board social media use by the borough attorney, and preparation for the AASB Legislative Fly-In. The policy revision (AR 1330 and E 1240) is scheduled for a first reading and action at the evening business meeting.

• Draft school bond project list for fall 2020 to address deferred maintenance, safety, and energy savings
• Update on healthcare plan changes as of January 1, 2020
• Borough attorney training on board social media use and open meetings act
• Revision of AR 1330 Use of School Facilities and Properties and E 1240 Organizations Supporting Student Activities
• Preparation for AASB Legislative Fly-In with talking points and materials

The Board of Education conducted a work session to review school facility use policies and discuss various administrative topics. No formal votes or final decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Education Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education approved a revised high school graduation requirement defining full-time as four courses per semester. The board also approved the 2020-2021 district organizational chart, a teacher-in-charge policy, facility use regulations, and a charter school administrator evaluation process. Several other routine items were passed as part of the consent agenda.

• Approval of 2020-2021 District Organizational Chart
• Revision of AR 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements (full-time defined as 4 courses per semester)
• Approval of AR 4319.26 Teacher-In-Charge
• Approval of AR 1330 Use of School Facilities and Properties with E 1240
• Approval of AR 6187.1 Charter School Administrator Evaluation

The Board of Education approved several administrative regulations regarding school facilities and graduation requirements. The board also approved budget transfers over $50,000 and multiple teacher and administrator contracts.

• Approved AR 4319.26 Teacher-In-Charge
• Approved AR 1330 Use of School Facilities and Properties and E 1240 Organizations Support Student Activities
• Approved AR 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements
• Approved assignment of Virginia Morgan to the Board Information Committee
• Approved budget transfers in excess of $50,000
• Approved 2020-21 Tentative Administrator, Non-Tenure Teacher, and Long-Term Substitute contracts
• Approved 2020-2021 District Organizational Chart
• Approved AR 6187.1 Charter School Administrator Evaluation

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education is reviewing the preliminary general fund budget for fiscal year 2021. Discussions also include a draft list of potential school capital projects for a possible fall 2020 bond election.

• FY21 Preliminary General Fund Revenue estimated at $142,520,930
• FY21 Preliminary General Fund Expenditures and transfers totaling $144,183,314
• Proposed use of $1,662,384 from the fund balance to cover budget gaps
• Draft list of potential school capital projects for discussion
• Annual Assessment Report presentation including student data

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education met on January 13, 2020, to handle routine business including approval of minutes, a school report from Homer Middle School, and public presentations. The consent agenda was approved, which included revised gaming permits for Cooper Landing, long-term substitute teacher contracts for Soldotna High School, and new teacher contracts. The board also received the November and December 2019 finance reports and the second quarter budget transfer report.

• Approved revised gaming permits for Cooper Landing (FY20)
• Approved long-term substitute teacher contracts for Amy Burton and Terri Zopf-Schoessler at Soldotna High School
• Approved new teacher contracts (details not specified)
• Received November and December 2019 finance reports
• Received second quarter budget transfer report

The Board of Education approved the FY20 budget revision and several personnel contracts. The board also approved revised gaming permits and new committee assignments for member Virginia Morgan.

• Approved FY20 Budget Revision (9-0)
• Approved 2019-20 New Teacher Contract(s) (9-0)
• Approved 2019-20 Long-Term Substitute Teacher Contract(s) (9-0)
• Approved revised Gaming Permits - Primary members in charge of gaming (9-0)
• Approved assignment of Virginia Morgan to Board Policy Review and District P.E. Curriculum Committees (9-0)
• Approved December 9, 2019 meeting minutes

Board of Education Finance Committee

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Finance Committee will review the revised FY20 revenue update and the revised FY21 revenue estimate. It will also discuss elementary school counselors and gather information requests for the next meeting. The meeting includes routine procedural items such as call to order, roll call, and approval of previous notes.

• FY20 Revenue Update – revised documents: Min Max Cap Amt FY20 Budget Estimate Revised and FY20 Revised Foundation Revenue
• FY21 Revenue – revised documents: Min Max Cap Amt FY21 Budget Estimate and FY21 Foundation Revenue Estimate
• Elementary School Counselors
• Information Requests to Administration for the next committee meeting
• Approval of Notes from Dec. 18, 2019

The committee reached a consensus to support adding six elementary school counselors to the FY21 budget to address social and emotional needs. Members also reviewed FY20 and FY21 revenue updates regarding a state calculation error. The committee approved the meeting notes from December 18, 2019.

• Approved Dec. 18, 2019 meeting notes
• Reached consensus to support adding 6 elementary school counselors to FY21 budget

Board of Education Information Committee Meeting

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Information Committee will hold a procedural meeting to approve previous meeting notes and discuss upcoming Association of Alaska School Boards legislative fly-ins, key communicator events, and budget and finance communications. No votes or binding decisions are scheduled.

• Approval of notes from Dec. 18, 2019 meeting
• Discussion of AASB Legislative Fly-Ins
• Discussion of Key Communicator Events
• Discussion of Budget and Finance Communications

The committee approved the notes from the December 18, 2019, meeting. Members discussed preparations for the Association of Alaska School Boards Legislative Fly-In and upcoming Key Communicator events. The committee also reviewed a per pupil expenditure report.

• Approved Dec. 18, 2019 meeting notes

Board of Education Policy Review Committee

The Kenai Peninsula Borough School District Board of Education Policy Review Committee will meet to review several proposed policy and administrative regulation changes. Items include a new form for art donations, a revision to the use of school facilities policy, and clarification of the assessment policy for student achievement.

• Review of new Exhibit 3290.1 Donation of Art for School form
• Revision to AR 1330 Use of School Facilities and Properties to reference a list of organizations
• New draft E 1240 List of Groups supporting student activities
• Review of AR 5121 Assessment to clarify whether it applies to all grades or only secondary grades

The committee accepted Exhibit 3290.1 regarding art donations with minor revisions. Revisions to AR 1330 concerning the use of school facilities and properties were moved forward for a February work session and first reading.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved December 9, 2019 meeting notes as printed
• Accepted Exhibit 3290.1 Donation of Art for School with minor revisions
• Moved AR 1330 Use of School Facilities and Properties and Exhibit 1240 to February work session and first reading

Board of Education Work Sessions

The Board of Education will hold work sessions to discuss several policy revisions, a per-pupil expenditure report, and a $870,000 grant for six new activity buses from the Volkswagen settlement. They will also meet with Kenai Peninsula legislators to discuss education priorities. No final decisions will be made at this work session; items are for discussion and future action.

• Review of AR 6187.1 Charter School Administrator Evaluation
• Proposed revision to AR 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements to define full-time as 4 courses per semester
• Revision of AR 4319.26 Teacher-In-Charge to align with updated board policy
• Discussion of new policies on professional boundaries between staff and students (BP/AR/E 5141.42)
• Award of $870,000 from Volkswagen Diesel Settlement for six activity buses; RFP to follow

The Board moved three administrative recommendations to first reading on February 3. One policy regarding professional boundaries of staff with students was returned to the Policy Review Committee for clarification of terms.

• Moved Administrative Recommendation 6187.1 Charter School Administrator Evaluation to 1st reading Feb. 3
• Moved AR 6146.1 High School Graduation Requirements to 1st reading Feb. 3
• Moved AR 4319.26 Teacher-In-Charge to 1st reading Feb. 3
• Returned BP, AR, E 5141.42-1 and E 5141.42-2 Professional Boundaries of Staff with Students to Policy Review Committee