Gilbert Unified School District public meetings in 2021

Executive Session at 5:30 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board will hold a regular meeting following an executive session. They are expected to vote on appointing Melinda Murphy as Director of Professional Growth and Development for the 2022-2023 school year. The board will also receive the monthly budget report through November 2021, the FY 2021 annual comprehensive financial report, and approve a consent agenda including personnel, work calendars, donations, and ratification of $27.5 million in November financial vouchers.

• Vote to appoint Melinda Murphy as Director of Professional Growth (Item 9.01)
• Presentation and acceptance of FY 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Single Audit results (Item 7.02)
• Monthly Budget Report through November 30, 2021 (Item 7.01)
• Ratification of $27,544,164.17 in November financial vouchers (Item 8.09)
• Approval of 2022-2023 work calendars for professional and support staff (Item 8.04)

The Governing Board approved a resolution to issue and sell school improvement bonds not to exceed $50 million. The board also accepted the FY 2021 financial reports and appointed a new Director of Professional Growth and Development.

• Authorized issuance and sale of school improvement bonds not to exceed $50M (4-0)
• Approved appointment of Melinda Murphy as Director of Professional Growth and Development for 2022-2023 (4-0)
• Accepted FY 2021 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Single Audit Reporting Package (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (4-0)

Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting, 6:00 p.m.

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board held a work study and brief board business meeting. They discussed the Elementary Acceleration Program and approved several consent agenda items including child care stabilization grant bonuses, parent support organizations, and travel. The board also approved the sale of the former Neely Elementary site at 321 W. Juniper Ave. to the Town of Gilbert for $6.85 million.

• Approved sale of former Neely Elementary property at 321 W. Juniper Ave. to Town of Gilbert for $6.85 million
• Authorized retention bonuses of $1,500–$2,500 for staff in community education programs via Child Care Stabilization Grant
• Approved Parent Support Organizations for FY2022
• Approved overnight/out-of-state student travel and staff travel requests
• Presented information on the Elementary Acceleration Program

The Governing Board approved the sale of real property located at 321 W. Juniper Ave. to the Town of Gilbert for $6.85 million. The property was formerly the site of Neely Elementary.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved sale of real property at 321 W. Juniper Ave. to Town of Gilbert for $6.85 million (5-0)

Regular Board Meeting

The Governing Board approved consent agenda items including four emergency food procurements for Nutrition Services, each up to $150,000, due to supply chain disruptions. The board also received the FY 2022 first-quarter and monthly financial reports and approved revisions to the Audit Committee operating guidelines. Personnel changes and meeting minutes were approved as well.

• Approved emergency food procurement with Sam's Club up to $150,000 due to supply chain issues
• Approved emergency food procurement with Vistar up to $150,000 for a la carte and smart snacks
• Approved emergency food procurement with Costco up to $150,000 for meals and a la carte options
• Approved emergency food procurement with Don Lee Farms up to $150,000 due to USDA commodity processor shortages
• Received FY 2022 first-quarter and monthly financial reports through October 31, 2021

The Governing Board approved the 2022-2023 Course Description Books for high schools, junior highs, and Gilbert Classical Academy. The Board also approved the first reads of four policies regarding board member development, child protection, student discipline, and student suspension.

• Approved 2022-2023 Course Description Books with non-substantive edits (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy BIB - Board Member Development Opportunities (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy JLF - Reporting Child Abuse / Child Protection (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy JK - Student Discipline (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy JKD - Student Suspension (5-0)
• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items with correction to Certified Personnel list (5-0)

Policy Meeting

The Gilbert Unified School District Policy Committee will review first‑read drafts and updates of several policies, including board‑member development opportunities, child‑abuse reporting, student immunization, discipline and suspension. The items are presented for first reading or regulatory updates.

• Review for first read of Policy BIB – Board Member Development Opportunities
• Review for first read of Policy JLF – Reporting Child Abuse / Child Protection
• Update of Policy JLCB‑R – Immunization of Students (Regulation)
• Review for first read of Policy JK – Student Discipline
• Review for first read of Policy JKD – Student Suspension

Executive Sessions (2) beginning at 4:00 p.m.; Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting immediately following Executive Sessions

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board will hold a work study with a communications update, then a second public hearing on the special education preschool instructional time model pursuant to HB 2862. Following that, the board will consider a consent agenda including personnel changes, an emergency food procurement from Don Lee Farms (up to $90,000), furniture purchases exceeding $100,000, and a correction to a prior contract reference. The board also held two executive sessions for superintendent performance standards and legal advice on real property negotiations.

• Second public hearing on GPS Instructional Time Model for Special Education Preschool
• Emergency procurement from Don Lee Farms for beef patties, up to $90,000
• Districtwide furniture purchases with Arizona Furnishings exceeding $100,000 via state contract ADSPO18-211723
• Educational Field Trips RFP award to Phoenix Zoo, Challenge Island, Conquer Ninja Gyms (est. $50,000/yr)
• Correction to DRHS Foul Ball Netting cooperative contract reference to SAVE JOC 17-003

The Governing Board approved a remote instructional time model for Special Education Preschool students at Settler’s Point Elementary. The Board also approved the Superintendent's evaluation instruments and performance pay measures.

• Approved Instructional Time Model for Special Education Preschool Remote Learning (5-0)
• Approved Superintendent evaluation instruments and performance pay measures and weights (5-0)
• Authorized attorney or representatives to act as instructed in Executive Session regarding real property negotiations (5-0)
• Approved the evening's agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)

Executive Session at 5:00 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session - REVISED

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board will hold an executive session to discuss legal advice on bids for baseball field enhancements at Desert Ridge High School and a cost-sharing agreement with Blandford Homes. The regular meeting includes a public hearing on the Special Education Preschool instructional time model, financial reports, and consent agenda items such as an adult education MOU with Mesa Public Schools and policy adoptions on class size and advisory committees.

• Executive session on backstop and netting bid at Desert Ridge High School baseball field with Blandford Homes cost-sharing
• Public hearing on GPS Instructional Time Model for Special Education Preschool
• FY 2022 Monthly Financial Report through September 30, 2021
• Memorandum of Understanding between Gilbert Adult Learning Program and Mesa Adult Education Program
• Second read and adoption of Policy IIB (Class Size) and Policy BDF (Advisory Committees)

The Governing Board approved a cost-sharing agreement with Blandford Homes for baseball field enhancements at Desert Ridge High School. The board also adopted two policies regarding rules of order and public participation at meetings. A first public hearing was held regarding the instructional time model for Special Education Preschool.

• Approved cost-sharing agreement with Blandford Homes for Desert Ridge High baseball field backstop and netting (4-0)
• Approved adoption of Policy BEDD - Rules of Order (3-1)
• Approved adoption of Policy BEDH - Public Participation at Board Meetings (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items minus 10.07 and 10.08 (4-0)
• Held first public hearing for Special Education Preschool Instructional Time Model

Policy Meeting at 11:30 a.m.

The Gilbert Unified School District Policy Committee meeting on Oct 19, 2021 will review and conduct a second reading of four policies: IIB on class size, BDF on advisory committees, BEDD on rules of order, and BEDH on public participation at board meetings. The committee will consider adopting or amending these policies.

• Second read of Policy IIB – Class Size
• Second read of Policy BDF – Advisory Committees
• Second read of Policy BEDD – Rules of Order
• Second read of Policy BEDH – Public Participation at Board Meetings

Executive Session at 5:15 p.m.; Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board held an executive session for legal advice regarding a baseball field bid, followed by a work study and brief business meeting. The board accepted the FY 2021 Annual Financial Report and approved several consent agenda items, including personnel changes, a $119,409 carpet upgrade for Building B, six new activity buses for $417,955, and $223,283 in fencing for Gilbert High School. The provided agenda text ends before detailing a final discussion item.

• Acceptance of the FY 2021 Annual Financial Report and School Level Reporting Form
• Approval of a $119,409 carpet replacement for Building B at the District Office Complex
• Purchase of six Multi-Function School Activity Buses from Auto Safety House, LLC for $417,955
• Installation of ornamental iron fencing at Gilbert High School for $223,283
• Executive session on legal advice regarding bids for Desert Ridge High School baseball field netting and a cost-sharing agreement with Blandford Homes

The Governing Board approved the FY 2021 Annual Financial Report and School Level Reporting Form. Two items regarding baseball field netting at Desert Ridge High School were tabled. Mrs. Jill Humpherys was appointed as the board delegate for the Arizona School Boards Association County Meeting.

• Approved evening agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items, including staff travel for U.S. Department of Education updates (5-0)
• Approved FY 2021 Annual Financial Report and School Level Reporting Form (5-0)
• Tabled agreement with Blandford Homes for Desert Ridge High School baseball field enhancements (5-0)
• Tabled bids for Desert Ridge High School varsity baseball field netting enhancements (5-0)
• Appointed Mrs. Jill Humpherys as board delegate to the ASBA County Meeting on October 18, 2021 (5-0)

Regular Board Meeting

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board approved a consent agenda covering roof replacement, temporary custodial staffing, personnel changes, donations, a new health policy, and travel. They also received the FY2022 monthly budget report and spring 2021 assessment report.

• Approved $229,089 roof removal and replacement at District Office Building A
• Approved up to $200,000 for temporary custodial staffing via Delta-T Group
• Adopted Policy JHD on exclusions and exemptions for chronic health conditions
• Heard FY2022 monthly budget report through August 31, 2021
• Ratified FY2021 and FY2022 financial vouchers totaling over $32 million

The Governing Board approved the first read of policies regarding class size, advisory committees, rules of order, and public participation. The board also approved the meeting agenda and all consent agenda items. Staff members were recognized for achievements, and the board reviewed budget and student assessment reports.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved all consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy IIB - Class Size (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy BDF - Advisory Committees (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy BEDD - Rules of Order (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy BEDH - Public Participation at Board Meetings (5-0)

Policy Meeting

The Gilbert Unified School District Policy Committee will discuss several proposed policy changes, including a first read of class size policy IIB and an update to its special education regulation. Also on the agenda are a second read of exclusions for chronic health conditions, an update on booster organization relations, and first reads for advisory committees, rules of order, and public participation at board meetings.

• First read of Policy IIB - Class Size
• Update of Policy IIB-R (Regulation) - Class Size (Special Education)
• Second read of Policy JHD - Exclusions and Exemptions from School Attendance (Chronic Health Conditions)
• Update of Policy KJA-R - Relations with Booster Organizations
• First read of Policy BEDH - Public Participation at Board Meetings

Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting, 6:00 p.m.

This work study and brief business meeting includes a presentation on allocation of ESSER III federal funds and a consent agenda with multiple actions. The board will consider approving emergency food procurements from Sysco Foods ($100,000), Don Lee Farms ($60,000), and JTM Food Group ($60,000) due to labor shortages affecting supply chains. Other consent items include personnel, base rates and stipend schedules, educational field trip contracts, an intergovernmental agreement with Apache Junction USD, and sole source vendors.

• Presentation on allocation of ESSER III money
• Emergency procurement from Sysco Foods ($100,000) for meal side items
• Emergency procurement from Don Lee Farms ($60,000) for beef patties
• Emergency procurement from JTM Food Group ($60,000) for taco meat and cheese sauce
• Intergovernmental agreement renewal with Apache Junction USD for special education services

The Governing Board approved a $1.50 hourly wage increase for current hourly staff and a $1,500 one-time supplemental payment for exempt staff. The Board also approved a paid sick leave benefit of up to eight days for employees with a positive COVID-19 test. Both measures were passed by unanimous vote.

• Approved $1.50 hourly wage increase for current hourly employees (5-0)
• Approved $0.70 hourly inflationary increase to base rates for hourly support staff (5-0)
• Approved $1,500 one-time supplemental pay for exempt positions, prorated by FTE (5-0)
• Approved up to 8 work days of paid sick leave for employees with positive COVID tests (5-0)
• Approved the evening's agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items, including emergency procurements for food shortages (5-0)

Executive Sessions (2) beginning at 5:00 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Sessions

The board held two closed executive sessions to discuss school safety operations and legal advice on COVID-19 mitigations. In the open regular meeting, they received a presentation on the FY2022 revised budget and approved a consent agenda that included personnel actions, intergovernmental agreements for waste collection with Gilbert and Mesa, a Title I paraprofessional incentive of up to $300, and second-read adoptions of policies on public participation, sick leave transfer, and transfer student admission.

• Executive session on school safety and COVID-19 mitigations
• FY2022 Revised Budget #1 presentation
• Intergovernmental agreement with Town of Gilbert for solid waste collection
• Intergovernmental agreement with City of Mesa for solid waste collection
• Title I paraprofessional incentive up to $300

Policy Meeting

The Gilbert Unified School District Policy Committee will review several policies for a second reading, including BEDH on public participation at board meetings, GCCG on voluntary sick leave transfers, and JFABC on admission of transfer students. They will also have a first reading of Policy JHD on exclusions and exemptions for chronic health conditions, along with associated updates to regulations and a discussion on gifts and solicitations by staff.

• Second read of Policy BEDH - Public Participation at Board Meetings
• Second read of Policy GCCG - Professional Staff Voluntary Transfer of Accrued Sick Leave
• Second read of Policy JFABC - Admission of Transfer Students
• First read of Policy JHD - Exclusions and Exemptions from School Attendance (Chronic Health Conditions)
• Discussion of Policy GBEBC-R - Gifts to and Solicitations by Staff Members

Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting, 6:00 p.m.

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board met to adopt an Instructional Time Model for secondary synchronous online learning and to consider several consent agenda items. The board approved contracts with BetterLesson for staff development ($172,800 over two years) and Hanover Research for research services ($154,500 total). Additional actions included appointing Reed Carr to the Audit Committee and approving sole‑source vendors for FY 2022. The meeting also called for a public hearing under HB 2862.

• Approve Instructional Time Model for 7‑12 synchronous online learning
• Approve BetterLesson training contract, $172,800 over two years (Instructional Improvement fund)
• Approve Hanover Research services contract, $51,500 annually, total $154,500 (Maintenance & Operations fund)
• Approve sole‑source vendors for FY 2022: Blackboard Inc., Integrated Register Systems, Gordon Darby
• Appoint Reed Carr as community member of the Audit Committee

The Governing Board approved the Instructional Time Model for 7-12 Synchronous Learning and appointed a community member to the Audit Committee. The board also held a public hearing regarding House Bill 2862 and approved the consent agenda.

• Approved Instructional Time Model for 7-12 Synchronous Learning (5-0)
• Appointed Reed Carr to the Audit Committee as a community member (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Called for and subsequently adjourned a second public hearing pursuant to HB 2862 (5-0)

Executive Session at 5:15 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board convened an executive session to receive legal advice on real property sale or lease negotiations. In the public meeting, they held a public hearing on the FY2022 instructional time model for grades 7-12 (synchronous learning), received reports on COVID-19 mitigation strategies and the monthly budget, and approved a consent agenda including personnel actions, a substitute pay schedule, and a contract for glass replacement services.

• Public hearing on FY2022 instructional time model: secondary synchronous learning
• Executive session for legal advice on real property sale/lease negotiations
• Report on 2021-2022 COVID-19 mitigation strategies
• Monthly budget report as of June 30, 2021
• Consent agenda includes Wheeler Glass contract for glass repair/replacement (est. $35,000 annually)

The Governing Board conducted a public hearing regarding the FY 2022 Instructional Time Model for secondary synchronous learning. No vote was taken on the model during this meeting; a decision is scheduled for August 10, 2021. The Board also approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items.

• Approved to convene Executive Session for real property negotiations (4-0)
• Approved to call for public hearing pursuant to HB2862 (4-0)
• Approved to adjourn public hearing (4-0)
• Approved to reconvene Regular Board Meeting (4-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved all consent agenda items (4-0)
• Approved to adjourn meeting (4-0)

Executive Session at 5:30 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The board convened in executive session to discuss appointing Natalie Tenney as Director of Nutrition Services, then held a public hearing and presentation on the FY 2022 proposed budget. Consent agenda items included personnel actions and contracts for signs, banners, trophies, and yearbook publishing services with annual expenditures totaling $275,700.

• Executive session to discuss potential appointment of Natalie Tenney as Director of Nutrition Services
• Public hearing and presentation of FY 2022 proposed budget
• Award of RFP for signs, banners, trophies, vinyl wraps and decals to nine vendors (annual $125,000)
• Renewal of yearbook publishing and design services contracts to six vendors (annual $150,700)
• Approval of certified and classified personnel actions, and meeting minutes

The Governing Board adopted the fiscal year 2022 proposed budget and approved pay increases for bus drivers and hard-to-fill hourly positions. The board also appointed a new Director of Nutrition Services and approved the first read of two district policies.

• Adopted FY 2022 Proposed Budget (5-0)
• Appointed Natalie Tenney as Director of Nutrition Services (5-0)
• Approved $1/hr base rate increase for new hire bus drivers with CDL (5-0)
• Approved wage increase up to $2/hr for hard-to-fill hourly positions (5-0)
• Approved advertisement for FY 2022 Instructional Time Model public hearings (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy BEDH regarding public participation at board meetings (5-0)
• Approved first read of Policy GCCG regarding voluntary transfer of accrued sick leave (5-0)
• Approved all consent agenda items (5-0)

Executive Sessions (3) beginning at 4:00 p.m.; Brief Board Business & Work Study immediately following Executive Sessions

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board held executive sessions to discuss superintendent evaluation and principal appointments, then voted to approve Amber Bickes as principal of Playa del Rey Elementary and Jonathan Schley as principal of South Valley Junior. The board also approved a consent agenda including a $5.19M contract with Benson Systems for a district-wide security surveillance system, and received presentations on the proposed FY 2022 budget, ESSER III spending, and a new instructional time model.

• Awarded Benson Systems the District-wide Security Surveillance System RFP#21-04-09-25 for $5.19M total cost of ownership over 3-5 years, funded by bonds
• Approved appointment of Amber Bickes as Principal of Playa del Rey Elementary for 2021-2022
• Approved appointment of Jonathan Schley as Principal of South Valley Junior for 2021-2022
• Received presentation on Technology Services Cybersecurity and Security Camera
• Received presentation on Proposed FY 2022 Budget and ESSER III spending plan

The Governing Board appointed Amber Bickes and Jonathan Schley as principals for the 2021-2022 school year. The Board also approved performance-based compensation for Superintendent Dr. Shane McCord and the advertisement for the FY 2022 Proposed Budget Summary.

• Appointed Amber Bickes as Principal of Playa del Rey Elementary (5-0)
• Appointed Jonathan Schley as Principal of South Valley Junior (5-0)
• Approved performance-based compensation for Superintendent Dr. Shane McCord (5-0)
• Approved advertisement for FY 2022 Proposed Budget Summary and Public Hearing Notice (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved agenda with removal of Items 9.03 and 9.04 (5-0)

Policy Meeting at 11:30 a.m.

The Gilbert Unified School District Policy Committee will discuss updates to several policies, including relations with booster organizations, public participation at board meetings, voluntary sick leave transfers, admission of transfer students, and exclusions for chronic health conditions. These are discussions and first-read reviews; no final votes are scheduled at this committee meeting.

• Discussion of Policy KJA - Relations with Booster Organizations
• Discussion of Policy KJA-R (Regulation) - Relations with Booster Organizations
• Review for First Read of Policy BEDH - Public Participation at Board Meetings
• Review for First Read of Policy GCCG - Professional Staff Voluntary Transfer of Accrued Sick Leave
• Review for First Read of Policy JHD - Exclusions and Exemptions from School Attendance (Chronic Health Conditions)

Executive Session at 10:30 a.m.; Brief Board Business Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The governing board held an executive session to discuss the potential appointment of Tyler Dumas as Principal of Campo Verde High School. Following the session, the board voted unanimously to approve his appointment for the 2021-2022 school year. The board also approved a consent agenda covering routine personnel actions for certified, support, and substitute staff.

• Appointment of Tyler Dumas as Principal of Campo Verde High School for 2021-2022
• Executive session under A.R.S. 38-431.03(A)(1) to discuss the appointment
• Approval of consent agenda covering certified personnel changes
• Approval of consent agenda covering support staff and substitute personnel changes
• Renewal of 2021-2022 support staff notices of appointment

The Governing Board appointed Tyler Dumas as the Principal of Campo Verde High School for the 2021-2022 school year. The board also approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items.

• Approved appointment of Tyler Dumas as Principal of Campo Verde High School for 2021-2022
• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved consent agenda items

Executive Session at 5:30 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board will hold an executive session to discuss the potential appointment of Dr. Krista Cox as Director of Curriculum. In the regular meeting, the board will consider consent agenda items including $205,982 for athletic grounds equipment, $340,002 for audio visual equipment for Neely Traditional Academy and distance learning classrooms, and $311,724 to remodel computer labs at three elementary schools.

• Executive session to discuss appointment of Dr. Krista Cox as Director of Curriculum
• Purchase of athletic grounds equipment from Deere and Company for $205,982.54
• Audio visual equipment for Neely Traditional Academy and secondary distance learning classrooms for $340,002.87
• Computer lab remodels at Towne Meadows, Sonoma Ranch, and Harris Elementary for $311,724
• Approval of certified, support staff, and substitute personnel actions

The Governing Board appointed Dr. Krista Cox as the Director of Curriculum for 2021-2022 and approved a set of priorities for the 2022 ASBA Political Agenda. The board also approved the meeting agenda and all consent agenda items.

• Approved appointment of Dr. Krista Cox as Director of Curriculum (5-0)
• Approved 2022 ASBA Political Agenda priorities including full-day kindergarten funding and local control (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved all consent agenda items (5-0)

Policy Meeting, 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board Policy Committee is meeting to discuss proposed revisions to Policy JFABC (Admission of Transfer Students) and its accompanying regulation JFABC-R. The committee will also discuss practices related to Policy BEDH on public participation at board meetings. No votes or decisions are scheduled; this is a discussion-only meeting.

• Discussion of Policy JFABC – Admission of Transfer Students
• Discussion of Policy JFABC-R (Regulation) – Admission of Transfer Students
• Discussion on Practices Associated with Policy BEDH – Public Participation at Board Meetings

Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting, 6:00 p.m.

The work study session discussed the ASBA Proposed 2022 Political Agenda, FY 2021 Budget Revision #3, 3rd Quarter Financial Report, and Summer Bond & Capital Projects. The brief board business meeting approved the consent agenda (certified and support staff personnel, college credit exam incentive bonuses, parent support organization) and the Final FY 2021 Revised Budget #3, which includes about $2 million in ESSER III monies.

• Approved Final FY 2021 Revised Budget #3, including ~$2M in ESSER III monies
• Discussed FY 2021 Summer Bond & Capital Projects
• Approved routine certified and support staff personnel changes
• Approved College Credit Examination Incentive Program bonuses for teachers
• Approved FY 2021 Parent Support Organization

The Governing Board approved the final FY 2021 Revised Budget #3. The board also approved the meeting agenda and the consent agenda items.

• Approved the evening's agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved final FY 2021 Revised Budget #3 (5-0)

Executive Meeting at 4:30 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Board will first hold an executive session to discuss legal advice regarding reduction in force matters. The regular meeting will then consider approving consent agenda items including routine personnel changes, renewal of certified staff contracts, a $112,435 elevator modernization at Highland High School, and awarding a five-year external audit services contract starting at $58,500. The Board will also receive the monthly budget report and final FY 2020 audit report.

• Executive session for discussion of reduction in force legal advice
• Elevator modernization upgrade at Highland High School for $112,435
• Award of external financial audit services to Heinfeld, Meech & Co., P.C. starting at $58,500
• Renewal of 2021-2022 contracts for certified staff
• Final FY 2020 audit report presentation

The Governing Board approved an amended policy regarding graduation exercises and formally confirmed that its previous approval of staff reduction recommendations included approval of the rubric used. The board also received a clean FY 2020 audit report.

• Approved the agenda (5-0)
• Approved all consent agenda items (5-0)
• Adopted amended Policy IKFB - Graduation Exercises (5-0)
• Confirmed March 30, 2021 approval of Reduction in Force recommendations included approval of the rubric used (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Special Board Meeting at 6:00 p.m.

This special board meeting of Gilbert Public Schools includes a discussion and vote on modifying the district's face mask requirement. The board voted to maintain the current face covering requirement until May 28, 2021, in line with CDC and ADHS guidelines. The meeting also includes procedural items and public comment.

• Board voted 5-0 to keep face mask requirement through May 28, 2021
• Public comment period under A.R.S. 38-431.02.H
• Approval of the evening's agenda

The Governing Board decided to keep the current face covering requirements in place until May 28, 2021, in adherence with CDC and ADHS guidelines. A separate proposal to make face coverings recommended and encouraged rather than required was defeated.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Denied motion to change face coverings to 'recommended and encouraged' (2-3)
• Approved maintaining current face covering requirements until May 28, 2021 (5-0)

Executive Session at 5:30 p.m.; Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Governing Board held an executive session to discuss the potential appointment of Rod Huston as Mesquite High School principal, then heard a presentation on the preliminary FY2022 budget during the work study. During the subsequent board meeting, the board approved a consent agenda including personnel actions, facility upgrades, and contract renewals.

• Executive session to discuss appointing Rod Huston as Mesquite High School principal
• Presentation on preliminary FY 2022 budget
• Approved $112,533.71 for asphalt and parking lot upgrades at Gilbert High School (Bond Fund 630)
• Approved $206,794.14 for interior/exterior paint at Houston Elementary (future Neely Traditional Academy) (Bond Fund 630)
• Approved $283,538.46 for flooring replacement at Houston Elementary (Bond Fund 630)

The Governing Board approved a 2% ongoing compensation increase and a 3% stipend for most employees. The Board also voted to suspend performance evaluations for the 2020-2021 school year and approved the buyback of accrued time for staff impacted by a reduction in force.

• Approved 2% ongoing pay increase for regular scheduled positions, excluding minimum wage, temporary, supplemental pay, and substitute employees (5-0)
• Approved 3% stipend for all regular scheduled employees, including minimum wage but excluding supplemental, temporary, and substitute employees (5-0)
• Approved inflationary increase for all starting non-minimum wage hourly and salaried positions (5-0)
• Suspended performance evaluations for the 2020-2021 school year (5-0)
• Approved buyback of all accrued time for employees impacted by the Student Centered Reduction in Force (5-0)
• Approved the evening's agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)

Regular Board Meeting

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board approved its agenda and reviewed the February financial report. It adopted routine personnel actions and work calendars. The board approved several consent agenda items, including a $151,645 portable classroom renovation and major HVAC replacement contracts totaling over $2.3 million for Meridian, Patterson and Islands elementary schools. It also approved contract language for all employee groups for the 2021‑2022 school year.

• Approve $151,645 Canyon Valley portable classroom interior and exterior renovations (Fund: 630 Bond)
• Approve $1,022,133 HVAC system replacement at Meridian Elementary (Fund: 630 Bond)
• Approve $626,734.86 HVAC replacement at Islands Elementary and $702,787.15 at Patterson Elementary (Fund: 630 Bond)
• Approve contract and notice of appointment language for all employee groups for 2021‑2022
• Approve 2021‑2022 work calendars for professional and support staff

The Governing Board approved the closure of Houston Elementary at the end of the 2020-2021 school year. The board also discussed a reduction in force (RIF) affecting 152 teachers due to declining student enrollment and budget losses.

• Approved closure of Houston Elementary (Motion carried)
• Approved all consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting, 6:00 p.m.

The board discussed proposed school changes for 2021-2022, calendar revisions, high school graduation celebrations, cybersecurity upgrades, and financial reports. During the business meeting, the board approved consent agenda items including personnel changes and a self-insured dental insurance contract with Delta Dental worth $1,284,322. The board also approved a health insurance rate increase with two premium holidays for employees and FY 2021 Budget Revision #2 reflecting changes in student membership and ESSER II funding.

• Proposed school changes for 2021-2022 school year discussed
• School calendar revisions for 2021-2024 presented
• Cybersecurity/security camera update presented
• Delta Dental self-insured dental insurance awarded, $1,284,322 annual cost
• Health benefit rate increases approved with two premium holidays, returning ~$2.5M to employees and district funds

The Governing Board approved medical insurance rate recommendations for the 2021-2022 school year and the FY 2021 Budget Revision #2. The board also approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda items.

• Approved Employee Benefits Trust Medical Insurance Rates for 2021-2022, including two 'Premium Holidays' (4-0)
• Approved FY 2021 Budget Revision #2 (4-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (4-0)

Governing Board Retreat at 9:00 a.m.

The Governing Board is holding a retreat to discuss an update on the district's Strategic Operating Plan. No votes or formal decisions are expected at this meeting.

• Update on Strategic Operating Plan

The Governing Board held a retreat to receive updates on the Strategic Operating Plan. District leadership presented reports on student success, employee excellence, community engagement, operational efficiency, and school safety. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Executive Session at 5:00 p.m.; Regular Board Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board will meet in executive session for legal advice, then hold a regular meeting. The board is scheduled to approve a consent agenda including routine personnel items, a $620,877.06 door hardware replacement/upgrade at Gilbert High School, and an $824,466.36 eRate infrastructure equipment contract. A monthly budget report will also be presented.

• Door hardware replacement/upgrade at Gilbert High School ($620,877.06)
• eRate eligible infrastructure equipment, cabling and services ($824,466.36)
• Revised FY2021 Assistant Superintendent and Executive Director contracts
• Approval of minutes from January 26 and February 2, 2021 meetings
• Monthly budget report for January 2021

Governing Board Retreat at 9:00 - 11:30 a.m.

This is a retreat session, not a voting meeting. The board will discuss extending the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA), receive an update on the Strategic Operating Plan, and hear a presentation on the 2021-2022 budget.

• Extension of Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA)
• Update on Strategic Operating Plan
• 2021-2022 Budget presentation
• Call to order and adjournment

The Governing Board reviewed the costs of extending the Families First Coronavirus Response Act and the 2021-2022 budget timeline. Discussions included a loss of 1,563 students in enrollment since FY 2020 and the cost of potential salary increases. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Policy Meeting at 11:30 a.m.

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board Policy Committee is meeting for a second read of two policies: Policy GBGB on Staff Personal Security and Safety, and Policy GCD on Professional Staff Vacations and Holidays. No decisions are being made at this meeting; these are policy reviews only.

• Review for second read of Policy GBGB - Staff Personal Security and Safety
• Review for second read of Policy GCD - Professional Staff Vacations and Holidays

Work Study & Brief Board Business Meeting, 6:00 p.m. REVISED

The governing board will discuss the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2020, and review school calendar options for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 based on survey results. An update on Gilbert Global Academy is also scheduled. During the brief business meeting, the board approved proclamations for School Counselors Week and Career and Technical Education Month, and approved consent agenda items for certified, support staff, and substitute personnel.

• Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for FY ended June 30, 2020
• School calendar options for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 with survey result
• Update on Gilbert Global Academy
• Proclamation for School Counselors Week (Feb 1-5, 2021)
• Proclamation for Career and Technical Education Month (February 2021)

The Governing Board met for a Brief Board Business Meeting and approved the evening's agenda and the consent agenda items. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved the evening's agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (5-0)

Regular Board Meeting

The Gilbert Unified School District Governing Board will hold a regular meeting with reports on COVID metrics and the monthly budget. The consent agenda includes approval of personnel actions, minutes, and several capital projects funded by bonds.

• Approval of 9,000 Dell 3100 Chromebooks for FY2022 9th grade and elementary device refresh at $3,467,214 from CDWG
• Exterior painting, coating, weatherization and interior painting at Mesquite Jr. High for $452,507.50
• Floor replacement/upgrades at Highland High, Highland Jr. High, Quartz Hill, and Finley Farms for $1,662,698
• Floor replacement/upgrades at Desert Ridge High, Gilbert Classical Academy, Harris, Gilbert, and Sonoma Ranch for $1,795,891.40
• Restroom renovation/upgrades at Gilbert High School and five other schools (Gilbert High portion $1,870,035)

The Governing Board approved the meeting agenda. Superintendent Dr. Shane McCord announced that students and staff will return to full-time in-person learning starting February 1, 2021, while continuing to follow mitigation strategies.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Policy Meeting

This is a policy committee meeting of the Gilbert Unified School District. The committee will discuss second reads of policies on professional and support staff reduction in force, first reads of policies on staff vacations/holidays and personal security/safety, an update to the safety regulation, a review of the interscholastic sports policy, and a discussion on public participation at board meetings. These items are recommendations to the full board.

• Second read of Policy GCQA – Professional Staff Reduction in Force
• Second read of Policy GDQA – Support Staff Reduction in Force
• First read of Policy GCD – Professional Staff Vacations and Holidays
• First read of Policy GBGB – Staff Personal Security and Safety and its regulation update
• Review of Policy JJIB – Interscholastic Sports and discussion on Policy BEDH – Public Participation at Board Meetings

Executive Session at 5:00 p.m.; Special Organizational Meeting & Brief Board Business Meeting immediately following Executive Session

The board convened in executive session for legal advice on open meeting law, then held a special organizational meeting. They elected Dr. Charles Santa Cruz as President and Lori Wood as Clerk for the 2021 calendar year, approved meeting times and rules of order, and appointed committee members. In the board business meeting they approved a consent agenda including personnel changes and new check signers for district payroll and bank accounts.

• Election of Dr. Charles Santa Cruz as Board President for 2021
• Election of Lori Wood as Board Clerk for 2021
• Approval of committee appointments: policy, enrollment management, legislative representative (Dr. Santa Cruz), town liaisons, and insurance trust representative
• Appointment of Superintendent Dr. Shane McCord and Director of Finance Jackie Mattinen as check signers for payroll and accounts payable
• Approval of routine personnel changes for certified, support, and substitute staff

The Governing Board elected its 2021 officers and approved internal organizational rules. The Board decided that K-12 schools will operate in a hybrid delivery mode until January 29 or until vaccines are available to educators.

• Elected Dr. Charles Santa Cruz as Board President (5-0)
• Elected Mrs. Lori Wood as Board Clerk (5-0)
• Approved continuation of current meeting times (5-0)
• Approved Rules of Order under Policy BEDD (5-0)
• Reappointed 2020 Board committee representatives (5-0)
• Approved all consent agenda items (5-0)
• Approved hybrid delivery mode for K-8 schools until Jan 29 or educator vaccine availability (3-2)
• Approved hybrid delivery mode for grades 9-12 until Jan 29 or educator vaccine availability (3-2)