Davenport Community School District public meetings in 2020

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The Davenport Community School Board will vote on Dr. Kobylski’s retirement and the revised Early Retirement Incentive plan. It will also approve bills covering claims and salaries for the period November 19 to December 9, 2020. Additional discussion items include a water quality project agreement with the City of Davenport and updates to district policies.

• Approve Dr. Kobylski’s retirement, release, and related retirement agreement
• Approve the revised Early Retirement Incentive plan
• Approve bills for claims and salaries for 11/19/20‑12/9/20
• Discuss Water Quality Project Agreement with the City of Davenport
• Discuss new policy process and Policy 907 – District Operation During Public Emergencies

The Board approved a consent agenda including several athletic coaching contracts, a classified staff appointment, and one resignation. The record also lists 30 early retirements for administrators and teachers effective in February 2021, as well as classified staff retirements and resignations.

• Approved additional coaching contracts for Adam Creighton, Denzel Gay, Aryana Sarvestaney, and Grant Webb at $3,932.00 each
• Approved appointment of Martha Gutierrez as FNS Worker at Wood Intermediate ($11.56/hr)
• Accepted resignation of Media Specialist Jason Douglas
• Processed 30 early retirements for administrators and teachers effective February 12 or 26, 2021
• Accepted retirement of Head Custodian Curtis Waterman
• Accepted resignations of Lily Barnes, Casey Dooling, and Katherine Stuhr
• Recorded leave of absence for Para Educator Kelley Moses

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE @ 5:30pm

The Davenport Community School District Board will hold a virtual Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss financial forecasting and planning, presented by Gary Sinclair, and board committee matters. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the agenda is limited to discussion items.

• Financial forecasting and planning presentation by Gary Sinclair
• Discussion of board committees with attached sample tools

The board received a presentation on budget planning software and key financial assumptions, including enrollment and state aid. Staff from the Iowa Association of School Boards provided training on board communication and committee structures. No formal votes were taken during the meeting.

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 5:00PM

This is a special closed meeting of the Davenport Community School District board. The board will immediately move into closed session under Iowa Code to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, or performance is under consideration, at that individual's request. The agenda consists solely of procedural motions to enter and then adjourn the closed session.

• Closed session under Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate professional competency of an individual

The board met in a special call closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual. No public decisions or votes on specific actions were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i)
• Approved motion to adjourn closed session

OPEN MEETING CANCELED-THE EXEMPT SESSION HAS BEEN POSTPONED SO THE OPEN MEETING SCHEDULED FOR 7:30PM HAS BEEN CANCELLED.

The Davenport Community School District announced that the open meeting scheduled for 7:30 PM on November 30, 2020 is canceled. The cancellation is due to the exempt session being postponed. No other business was scheduled for discussion.

• Exempt session postponed
• Open meeting scheduled for 7:30 PM canceled

Regular/Annual Meetings @ 6:00PM via UTUBE

The Davenport Community School District Board will hold a regular board meeting followed by the annual meeting. Items requiring action include approval of contracts with Aercor and Netrix ($85,178.28), and the annual settlement report. The annual meeting includes election of board officers (president, vice president) and designation of financial institutions as depositories with limits up to $65 million.

• Election of board president and vice president
• Approval of Netrix contract for $85,178.28
• Designation of 11 financial institutions as depositories, with Quad City Bank & Trust capped at $65 million
• Approval of Aercor contract (amount not specified)
• Annual settlement report for FY2020

The Board approved a series of $750.00 supplemental contracts for staff serving as TLCS CTT Guides across multiple elementary, intermediate, and high schools. The meeting also included reports on the state board of education and the SRO Task Force.

• Approved $750.00 supplemental contracts for TLCS CTT Guides at various district schools

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 4:30PM

This is a special closed meeting of the Davenport Community School District board. The board will immediately move into closed session under Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, or performance is being considered, at that individual's request. No public decisions are scheduled, only procedural motions to convene and adjourn the closed session.

• Closed session to evaluate professional competency of an individual under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i)

The board met in a special closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i) (All ayes)
• Approved motion to adjourn closed session at 5:40PM (All ayes)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting at 5:40PM

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The Davenport School Board will consider approving three School Budget Review Committee applications, including $795,328 for open enrolled out students and $196,921 for English language learner instruction beyond five years. The board will also vote on an early retirement incentive and discuss a financial update and citation update. Consent agenda items include personnel changes and minutes approval.

• Approval of SBRC application for $795,328 for open enrolled out students
• Approval of SBRC application for $196,921.12 for ELL instruction beyond five years
• Approval of early retirement incentive as presented
• Approval of bills for periods 10-22-20 to 11-4-20
• Open Forum for public input on school district issues

The board approved a consent agenda containing various personnel actions, including supplemental contracts for athletics and several classified staff retirements and resignations. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved supplemental contracts for volleyball and football coaching
• Approved resignations for softball and wrestling assistant positions
• Approved retirements for Sandra Peisch and Helen Schlue
• Approved classified resignations/terminations for Chase Austin, Teresa Droessler, Ellen Reilly, and Talicia Thomas

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE @ 5:30pm

The Committee of the Whole will hold a workshop discussion on defining equity in relation to the district's Crisis Response and Violence Prevention Plan. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Discussion on defining equity in the Crisis Response and Violence Prevention Plan

The Committee of the Whole received a presentation on defining equity within the Crisis Response and Violence Prevention (CRVP) plan. The session focused on disproportionality in discipline and special education referrals, unconscious bias, and systemic district operations. No formal votes or policy changes were decided during the meeting.

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The Davenport Community School District Board will vote on a $67,500 contract with IMEG Engineering for the Truman Elementary Drainage and Facade Project. They will also consider approving a list of bills from October 8-21, 2020, and adopt several policies. Discussion items include 3rd grade reading data, a citation update, and an overview of the board's professional development schedule.

• Approval of $67,500 contract with IMEG Engineering for Truman Elementary drainage and facade design
• Approval of bills for periods 10-8-20 to 10-21-20
• Approval of policy updates from the Policy Committee
• Discussion of 3rd grade reading data and K-3 literacy
• Discussion of citation update and board professional development schedule

The board approved a consent agenda including additional contracts, new classified staff appointments, a retirement, and several resignations. The meeting also included a presentation on the DEA Multicultural Committee and reports from student and board members.

• Approved additional contracts for Kristi Couch ($1,638.00), Naomi Elias ($1,966.00), and Alvin Sims ($2,294.00)
• Approved classified appointments for Rebecca Amissah, Regan Callahan, and Courtney Loos
• Approved retirement of Belva Bell effective October 30, 2020
• Approved resignations of Emma Corrouthers, Lindsay Ozmon, and Brenda Sims
• Approved return from leave of absence for Michael Mickelson

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District Board is holding a special closed meeting to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation. The board will meet in open session only long enough to vote to move into closed session, then immediately adjourn. No public business or decisions will be made in open session.

• Closed session under Iowa Code §21.5(1)(c) to discuss litigation strategy with counsel

The board met in a special call closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding current or imminent litigation. No public decisions or votes on specific policy or spending were recorded.

• Moved into closed session to discuss litigation strategy (carried)

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The board will vote on an application to the Iowa School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $1,298,188.50 to cover excess costs of the Limited English Proficient (LEP) program. Other action items include approving contracts for Lexia ($228,237.50), Recover Health of Iowa ($100,000), and Unity Point Health ($55,000), as well as a consent agenda with personnel changes and contracts (Universal Pediatrics $15,000, Legat Architects $47,000). The board will also discuss several policy updates, including anti-bullying, equal opportunity, and sex-based discrimination policies.

• Application to SBRC for $1,298,188.50 for LEP program excess costs
• Lexia contract approval for $228,237.50
• Recover Health of Iowa contract for $100,000
• Unity Point Health contract for $55,000
• Consent agenda includes Universal Pediatrics ($15,000) and Legat Architects ($47,000)

The board approved a series of personnel actions, including additional contracts for department and athletic staff and several new classified employee appointments. The meeting also included reports on board priorities and the development of a year-long meeting agenda.

• Approved additional contract for Angela Reaves (Department Head, North High) for $1,966.00
• Approved additional contract for Ramsey Vens (Boys' Swimming Assistant, Central High) for $3,932.00
• Approved additional contract for Jacob Wehr (Football Assistant, West High) for $1,048.53
• Approved appointment of Austin Baker as Student Support Liaison at Harrison Elementary ($18.60/hr)
• Approved appointment of Pamela Foland as Para Educator at Central High ($15.49/hr)
• Approved appointment of Emily Goldsberry as Para Educator at Williams Intermediate ($16.33/hr)
• Approved appointment of Douglas Guy as LIS Tech Support at ASC ($20.73/hr)
• Approved appointment of Taylor Jensen as Para Educator at Wood Intermediate ($16.68/hr)

ANNOUNCEMENT-MEETING CANCELLED. THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE MEETING SCHEDULED FOR MONDAY 10/5 IS CANCELLED

The Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for Monday, October 5, 2020, has been cancelled. No business was conducted or discussed.

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 4:30PM

This is a special call closed meeting of the Davenport Community School District board. The board will meet in open session only to immediately move into closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation, as permitted by Iowa law. No public business or decisions are on the agenda.

• Motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c) for litigation strategy discussion

The board met in a special call closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding present or imminent litigation. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Moved into closed session per Section 21.5(1)(c) of open meeting law

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The Davenport Community School Board will consider routine consent items including personnel changes and meeting minutes, then vote on a $143,861.92 Transition Alliance Program contract and a Code of Ethics Policy. They will also approve bills for two periods (9/10-9/23 and 9/25) and void 15 incorrect checks. Discussion items include updates from the Iowa Department of Education, student assessment, and the Return to Learn plan. The meeting is open to the public with a 30-person in-person capacity and remote viewing available.

• Approval of TAP contract for $143,861.92
• Approval of bill listing for 9/10-9/23 and 9/25 with 15 voided checks (e.g., Alston Cleary $400, Andrea Kelley $257.08)
• Adoption of a new Code of Ethics Policy
• Consent agenda includes personnel appointments/resignations and minutes from prior meetings
• Discussion of Return to Learn/Platforms update

The board approved a series of personnel actions, including certificated and classified staff appointments. The meeting also included reports from student representatives and public comments on district support and online learning.

• Approved certificated appointment of Richard Gooch to Adams Elementary
• Approved additional contract for Kimberly Finkeldei for Student Council
• Approved classified appointments for six Para Educators
• Approved appointment of Amy Long as Professional Secretary II
• Approved appointment of Jessica McGinnis as Chromebook Tech

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The Davenport Community School District Board will consider approving multiple contracts and personnel items, including a $1,106,500 hearing interpreter services contract and a $254,340 data cooling project bid. The board will also vote on a consent agenda with contracts for ACT, security, and network infrastructure, as well as personnel changes. Discussion items include a financial update and a code of ethics policy.

• Contract for Hearing Interpreter Services with Mississippi Bend AEA for $1,106,500
• Bid for LIS Data Cooling Project from Tri City Electric at $254,340
• Contract with Power School for $135,049.09
• Contract with Eastern Iowa Community College for concurrent enrollment estimated at $400,000
• Approval of policy 502.18 Animals on District Property

The Board approved a series of service contracts and a change order for plumbing. Additionally, the Board approved several certificated personnel appointments for various elementary and intermediate schools.

• Approved contract for ACT, Inc. ($43,284.50)
• Approved contract for Milestone Security ($34,680)
• Approved contract for DW Network Infrastructure ($28,169)
• Approved change order for Hometown Plumbing ($24,772.06)
• Approved certificated personnel appointments for multiple staff members

BOARD WORKSHOP @ 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District Board will hold a workshop conducted by the Iowa Association of School Board Staff. The workshop replaces the regular Committee of the Whole meeting for the month and will be conducted virtually for staff while board members attend in person. The meeting is open to the public.

• Board workshop conducted by Iowa Association of School Board Staff (IASB)
• Workshop replaces the Committee of the Whole meeting for this month
• IASB staff will conduct the workshop virtually; board members will be in person
• Public is welcome to attend the open meeting

The board and IASB staff discussed superintendent goals and Department of Education reporting tools. The board identified five next steps to establish a monitoring routine and suggested two actions for the superintendent to enhance monthly updates.

• Identified five next steps to establish a monitoring routine
• Suggested two superintendent actions to enhance monthly progress updates

SUPERINTENDENT EVALUATION / CLOSED MEETING @ 4:30PM

The Davenport Community School District board will vote to enter a closed session to evaluate the superintendent's performance under Iowa Code. No other business is scheduled for this meeting.

• Motion to close meeting for superintendent evaluation under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i)

The board met in a special call closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual. No substantive decisions or outcomes were recorded in the public minutes.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i) (All ayes)
• Approved motion to adjourn closed session (All ayes)

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM

The Davenport Community School Board will recognize outgoing Director Mayfield, swear in Jamie Snyder to fill the remainder of his term, and vote on revised school calendars for the 2020-21 year starting September 8. The board will also approve bills for two periods, a revised board calendar adding a regular meeting, and the Department of Education report.

• Recognition of Director Mayfield's service to the district
• Swearing in of Jamie Snyder to fill the remaining term expiring November 2021
• Approval of bills for periods 7-23-20 to 8-5-20 and 8-6-20 to 8-19-20
• Approval of revised K-8 and 9-12 academic calendars starting September 8, 2020
• Approval of revised board calendar adding one regular meeting starting September 2020

The board swore in Jamie Snyder to complete the term of Director Clyde Mayfield. The board also recognized Director Mayfield for his lifetime of contributions to the district. Several residents spoke during the open forum against the use of School Resource Officers in schools.

• Sworn in Jamie Snyder to the School Board (term expires November 2021)
• Recognized Director Clyde Mayfield with a Recognition of Service plaque

Special Call Open Meeting @ 5:00pm

The Davenport Community School District Board is holding a special call open meeting to interview 12 candidates to fill the remaining term of Director Mayfield, which ends in November 2021. The board will then vote to select and appoint a candidate. The meeting is remote via YouTube.

• Candidate interviews scheduled from 5:00 to 8:55 PM
• Board to select a candidate via motion to fill the vacancy
• Board to appoint the selected candidate to fill term ending November 2021
• Candidates asked five predetermined questions on motivation, goals, challenges, financial status, and board priorities
• Letters of interest attached for all 12 candidates

The board interviewed 11 candidates to fill the remaining term of Director Clyde Mayfield. After narrowing the field to two finalists, the board voted to appoint Jamie Snyder to the position.

• Approved selecting a candidate to fill Director Mayfield's remaining term (All Ayes)
• Appointed Jamie Snyder to fill the remaining term of Director Mayfield expiring November 2021 (All Ayes)

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE 5:30PM

The Davenport Community School District Committee of the Whole will hold a virtual meeting due to COVID-19. The board will discuss a Special Education Update and receive an introduction to the Strategic Teaching and Learning Plan. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion and information only.

• Special Education Update discussion
• Introduction of Strategic Teaching and Learning Plan (MTSS 2016-2021)

The board received updates on special education citations and the 'Return to Learn' plan for COVID-19. Superintendent Dr. Kobylski proposed developing a new strategic teaching and learning plan to replace the 2016 version.

• No formal votes were recorded; the meeting served as a Committee of the Whole for reports and discussion

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING @ 4:30PM

The Davenport Community School District Board will hold a special virtual meeting to hear public comment, discuss an update on the Return to Learn Plan for the upcoming school year during COVID-19, and vote on several contracts including School Resource Officer agreements, a contract with Gary Sinclair, and a contract for the School Administrator Manager project.

• Approval of 28D Agreements (School Resource Officer agreements with police)
• Approval of contract with Gary Sinclair
• Approval of contract for SAM (School Administrator Manager) project
• Update on Return to Learn Plan
• Open forum for public comment via phone and video

The board approved 28D Agreements, a budget development contract with Gary Sinclair, and a contract for the School Administrator Manager (SAM) project. Dr. Kobylski provided updates on the Return to Learn Plan and the school start date of September 8th.

• Approved 28D Agreements (All Ayes)
• Approved contract with Gary Sinclair for budget development and review (All Ayes)
• Approved contract for SAM (School Administrative Manager) project (All Ayes)

THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELLED.. WILL RESCHEDULE SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING

This special call open meeting of the Davenport Community School District board, scheduled for August 10, 2020, has been cancelled and will be rescheduled. The agenda included items such as approval of 28D agreements, contracts with Tom Lane and Gary Sinclair, a contract for the SAM project, and an update on the Return to Learn Plan, but no action was taken due to the cancellation.

• Approval of 28D Agreements (agenda item, cancelled)
• Approval of contract with Tom Lane (agenda item, cancelled)
• Approval of contract with Gary Sinclair (agenda item, cancelled)
• Approval of contract for SAM project (agenda item, cancelled)
• Update on Return to Learn Plan (agenda item, cancelled)

THIS MEETING HAS BEEN CANCELLED WILL RESCHEDULE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE

This Committee of the Whole meeting for August 10, 2020, has been cancelled and will be rescheduled. The agenda included a Special Education Update discussion and an introduction of the Strategic Teaching and Learning Plan, but no decisions or discussions occurred.

• Meeting cancelled; rescheduling pending
• Special Education Update was on agenda as a discussion item
• Introduction of Strategic Teaching and Learning Plan was on agenda as a discussion item

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 5:30PM

The Davenport Community School District is holding a special closed meeting, solely to enter a closed session under Iowa Code to discuss records that must be kept confidential. No public business or decisions are on the agenda.

• Motion to go into closed session under Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a) to review or discuss confidential records

The board met in a special closed session to discuss records required by state or federal law to be kept confidential. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a) (All ayes)
• Approved motion to adjourn closed session at 6:10PM (All ayes)

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM VIA YOUTUBE

The Davenport Community School District board will hold a public hearing and vote on plans for a data cooling project, approve multiple contracts, and adopt a COVID-19 leave policy. They will also discuss the district's Return to Learn plan and receive a special education update.

• Public hearing and approval of plans for DSCD LIS Data Closet Cooling Project
• Approval of SU Insurance Contract for $282,867
• Approval of Rock Valley Physical Therapy Contract for $81,004
• Approval of Lexia Contract for $67,360.50
• Adoption of Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) Policy

The Board approved a consent agenda including two service contracts and multiple staff appointments. A special education update was postponed to the August 10th meeting.

• Approved Century Link contract for $26,400
• Approved Institute for Multi-Sensory Education contract for $29,830
• Approved personnel appointments including Director of Operations Joshua Urmanski
• Postponed Special Education Update to August 10th

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING VIA UTUBE 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School Board will hold a special virtual meeting to vote on approving four AFSCME collective bargaining agreements covering custodial, food service, para-educators, and secretarial staff for 2020-2023, and to approve a contract with Xello. The meeting is conducted online due to COVID-19.

• Approval of AFSCME collective bargaining agreements for Custodial/Warehouse/Security/Copy Center, Food & Nutrition Service, Para-Educators, and Secretarial (7/1/20-6/30/23)
• Approval of Xello Contract (software/service contract, amount not specified in agenda)
• Meeting held virtually via YouTube due to COVID-19 pandemic

The board approved negotiated collective bargaining agreements for several AFSCME employee groups. Additionally, the board approved a contract with Xello to meet a state unfunded mandate.

• Approved AFSCME contracts for Custodial/Warehouse/Security/Copy Center, Food & Nutrition Service, Para-Educators, and Secretarial (All Ayes)
• Approved Xello Contract (All Ayes)

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE VIA UTUBE 5:30PM

The Davenport Community School District Board holds a virtual Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: an update on the Return to Learn plan for the upcoming school year during the COVID-19 pandemic, and a dialogue on School Resource Officers. No votes or decisions are scheduled; both items are listed as discussions.

• Return to Learn Update – discussion of district's plan for reopening schools amid COVID-19
• School Resource Officers Dialogue – discussion of the role and presence of police in schools

The district announced that schools will resume on August 24, 2020, using either a hybrid model or a strictly online-only environment due to COVID-19 transmission rates. The board also held a dialogue regarding the role and evaluation of School Resource Officers (SROs). No formal votes were recorded.

• Announced school resumption date of August 24, 2020
• Proposed hybrid model: students attend in person one day per week and online for remaining days
• Proposed online-only learning environment as an alternative to hybrid model
• Deferred opening of weight rooms and sports activities

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 5PM

The Davenport Community School District board is holding a special closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, or performance is being considered. The meeting includes a motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code and adjournment. No public action is expected.

• Motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate professional competency of an individual

The board met in a special call closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual. No other substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(i) (All ayes)

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @ 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District board is holding a special closed meeting. The only action is a motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(a) to discuss records required to be kept confidential by state or federal law.

• Motion to move into closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(a) for review of confidential records

The board met for a special closed session to discuss records required by state or federal law to be kept confidential. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (All Ayes)
• Approved motion to adjourn meeting at 5:57 PM (All Ayes)

REGULAR MEETING @ 6:00PM VIA YOUTUBE

The Davenport Community School District board holds a regular meeting virtually via YouTube due to COVID-19. The board will vote on the 2020-21 academic calendars, contracts with Mediacom ($119,400) and PowerSchool ($59,510), collective bargaining agreements with the Davenport Education Association and Maintenance Employees, and memberships in the Iowa Association of School Boards ($12,200) and Urban Education Network ($10,000). A public hearing and approval of the Return to Learn Plan is also scheduled, along with a presentation from TAG Communications and discussion of a letter from the Equity Committee.

• Public hearing and approval of 2020-21 academic calendars (K-8 and 9-12)
• Approval of Mediacom contract for $119,400
• Approval of PowerSchool contract for $59,510.04
• Approval of three-year collective bargaining agreements with Davenport Education Association and Maintenance Employees (effective 7/1/20–6/30/23)
• Approval of Return to Learn Plan for COVID-19 response

The Board approved a consent agenda including several personnel appointments, resignations, and retirements. The meeting also featured a report on the district's social media growth and digital communications metrics.

• Approved $2,025/mo administrative stipend for Lisa Crews as Interim CFO
• Approved appointment of Krysta Smith as Special Education Consultant ($72,387.53)
• Approved appointment of Petra Erskine as Student Support Liaison: Sp Ed
• Approved appointment of Tony Gates as Custodian ($15.59/hr)
• Approved appointment of Jose Perez as Custodian ($15.59/hr)
• Accepted resignation of Daniel Burlingame, Associate Director of Operations
• Accepted retirement of Theresa Johnson, Orchestra
• Accepted resignations of Thomas Alger Jr., John Brosius, and Ashley Felts

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING VIA UTUBE 5:00pm

The Davenport Community School District held a special call open meeting via YouTube on June 16, 2020. The agenda included a discussion item to debrief the State Board of Education meeting, along with procedural items to call the meeting to order and adjourn.

• Discussion item: State Board of Education Meeting Debrief

The Committee of the Whole met to discuss a debrief of the State Board of Education meeting. The discussion focused on state expectations for results regarding disproportionality and the cost of hiring experts. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @5:00

This is a special call closed meeting of the Davenport Community School District board. The board will move into closed session under Iowa Code to review confidential records. No public votes or decisions are scheduled. The meeting is conducted remotely due to COVID-19.

• Motion to move into closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(a) to review confidential records

The Board conducted a special closed meeting to discuss records required by state or federal law to be kept confidential. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Entered closed session per Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a) (All ayes)
• Adjourned closed session at 5:20PM (All ayes)

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE VIA UTUBE 5:30PM

The Davenport Community School District Board holds a Committee of the Whole meeting via YouTube to discuss two items: an update from the Iowa Department of Education on conditional accreditation for the 2020-2021 school year, and board reports from the Return to Learn Committee. The meeting is held remotely due to COVID-19, with no public in-person access.

• Update from Department of Education on Davenport CSD Conditional Accreditation Plan for 2020-2021
• Board reports from the Return to Learn Committee on school reopening plans
• Meeting conducted via YouTube due to COVID-19 closure of Achievement Service Center

The Committee of the Whole reviewed a state-directed corrective action plan addressing special education citations, finances, and bullying policies. Board members also reported on Return to Learn subcommittees, with plans scheduled for approval at the June 22 meeting.

• Reviewed state corrective action plan for special education and administration citations
• Scheduled Return to Learn Plans for board approval on June 22

REGULAR MEETING (TUESDAY) @ 6PM VIA YOUTUBE

The board will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of minutes from recent meetings, an IMSE contract for $43,780, and personnel actions. It will vote on bill payments covering claims and salaries for the periods April 23–May 6 and May 7–May 20, 2020. The board will decide whether to uphold a denial of an open‑enrollment appeal and whether to approve a $237,150 bid from Davenport Electric Contracting for Phase 2 LED lighting at Central High School. Additional items include adoption of an elections policy and discussion of current school‑year feedback and Return‑to‑Learn planning.

• IMSE Contract – $43,780 (Consent agenda)
• Approval of bid for Central High Phase 2 LED Lighting Project – $237,150 (Davenport Electric Contracting)
• Approval of bill payments for claims and salaries for 4/23‑5/6 and 5/7‑5/20, 2020
• Open enrollment denial appeal for student John Powell
• Adoption of elections policy (904.01)

The Board approved a $43,780 IMSE contract and several personnel changes, including the appointment of a Director of Human Resources & Equity and a Principal. The Director of Operations position was removed from the consent agenda prior to the vote.

• Approved IMSE Contract for $43,780
• Appointed Jami Weinzerl as Director of Human Resources & Equity ($143,000.00)
• Appointed Tammy Conrad as Principal of Washington Elementary ($110,031.99)
• Appointed Daniel Burlingame as Director of Operations ($127,258.00)
• Accepted resignation of Tammy Conrad as Interim Principal
• Accepted retirement of Randi Barnes, Media Specialist
• Accepted resignations of seven certificated staff members

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District will hold a special call open meeting streamed publicly on YouTube. The board will consider approving Alternate 2 of the medical insurance plan presented by True North. The proposed plan includes a $1,000 single deductible and 80% coinsurance, effective July 1, 2020.

• Approve Alternate 2 medical insurance plan – $1,000 deductible, 80% coinsurance, effective July 1 2020

The board approved the Alternate 2 medical insurance plan design presented by True North. The plan includes a $1,000 single deductible with 80% coinsurance and becomes effective July 1, 2020.

• Approved Alternate 2 medical insurance plan (6-1 abstention)

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING VIA UTUBE 5:30pm

This special meeting includes a vote on a $865,475 contract with Aercor for wireless access points under the E-Rate program. The board will also discuss a Mediacom contract for student internet connectivity through the Connect to Compete program. The meeting is held virtually via YouTube due to the COVID-19 closure of the Achievement Service Center.

• Approval of E-Rate contract with Aercor for $865,475 for wireless access points
• Discussion of Mediacom Student Connect to Compete Program contract
• Meeting held virtually via YouTube due to COVID-19 building closure
• Only action item is the WAP contract; other items are procedural or discussion
• Public viewing link provided: https://youtu.be/o8zTvsjb92Q

The board approved a contract with Aercor for Wireless Access Point (WAP) E-rate services. The board also discussed a proposal to contract with Mediacom to provide internet access to students, though no vote was taken on that item.

• Approved $865,475 E-rate contract from Aercor for Wireless Access Points (5-1)

COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE VIA UTUBE 6:30PM

The Davenport Community School District Committee of the Whole will hold a virtual meeting to discuss four topics: an update from the State Board of Education, plans for graduation, a digital learning update, and planning for the 2020-21 school year. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are listed as discussions.

• Update on State Board of Education meeting
• Discussion of graduation plans
• Digital learning update
• 2020-21 school year planning

The Committee of the Whole reviewed plans for virtual graduations and digital learning transitions. Officials discussed a proposed 5-quarter system for the next school year to recover learning loss. No formal votes were taken during this meeting.

• Planned virtual graduations for June 6th via KWQC Channel 6
• Reserved July 19th at Tax Slayer Center for potential in-person graduations
• Proposed 5-quarter system for high schools to recover 4th quarter credits
• Proposed 20-week first semester and 16-week second semester for middle schools
• Discussed potential August 24th school start date

EXEMPT SESSION OF THE BOARD @4:30PM

This is an exempt session of the Davenport Community School District Board, held under Iowa Code 20.17(3) for negotiation/strategy regarding collective bargaining. Exempt sessions do not require public notice, agenda, or minutes, so no public business is conducted.

• 1.01 Strategy Session regarding negotiations with a collective bargaining unit

REGULAR MEETING @ 6PM VIA YOUTUBE

The Davenport Community School District board will vote on adjusting graduation requirements for the class of 2020 to 20 credits due to COVID-19 closures. Other actions include approving contracts for the Central LED Lighting Project, Brady Street Stadium Security Project ($186,580), ASC Tuckpointing Project ($383,750), and a Juvenile Court Liaison Contract ($194,693). The board will also consider open enrollment denial appeals and a revised pandemic response resolution.

• Vote to adjust 2020 graduation requirements to 20 credits and waive certain course requirements due to COVID-19
• Public hearing and approval of plans for Central Phase II LED Lighting Project
• Approval of bid for Brady Street Stadium Security Project for $186,580 from Tri-City Electric
• Approval of bid for ASC Tuckpointing Project for $383,750 from TNT Tuckpointing & Restoration
• Approval of Juvenile Court Liaison Contract for $194,693 for 2020-2021 school year

The board met via YouTube to conduct business during the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting focused on the consent agenda, which included the reading of previous meeting minutes and a list of personnel resignations and retirements.

• Read minutes for 3-23-20 Regular Meeting
• Read minutes for 4-8-20 Special Call Open Meeting
• Read minutes for 4-13-30 Special Call Closed Meeting
• Read minutes for 4-13-30 Special Call Open Meeting
• Processed administrative resignations for Daniel Burlingame and Patricia Whitmarsh
• Processed retirement for Constance Hamilton
• Processed certificated resignations/terminations for 13 staff members

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING @5:30

The Davenport Community School District Board is holding a special closed meeting to review or discuss records that are required by state or federal law to be kept confidential. The meeting consists of an open session, a motion to move into closed session, the closed session itself, and adjournment. No other business is scheduled.

• Motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(a) for review of confidential records or records required for federal funding

The board met in a special closed session to discuss records required by law to be kept confidential. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Moved into closed session at 5:30 PM (All ayes)
• Adjourned closed session at 5:50 PM (All ayes)

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING VIA UTUBE 5:30pm

The Davenport Community School District board will hold public hearings and vote on two budget items: an amendment to the 2019-20 budget and adoption of the 2020-21 budget with a proposed property tax levy rate of $15.27812 per $1,000 valuation. The meeting is virtual due to COVID-19, with public participation via phone.

• Public hearing on amended 2019-20 budget
• Public hearing on proposed 2020-21 budget
• Approval of amended 2019-20 budget: Instruction $120,423,323; Support Services $64,824,067; Non-Instructional $7,718,751; Other $24,844,750
• Approval of 2020-21 budget with total resources and requirements estimated at $261,845,782
• Proposed property tax levy rate of $15.27812 per $1,000 taxable valuation

The board approved an amendment to the 2019-20 certified budget and adopted the 2020-21 budget and tax levy rate. Public hearings were held for both items, but no one spoke. The meeting was conducted via YouTube to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

• Approved amended 2019-20 certified budget (All ayes)
• Adopted and certified 2020-21 Budget and Tax Levy Rate (All ayes)

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWING OPEN MEETING

The Davenport Community School District Board held a special closed meeting on April 13, 2020, to discuss records required to be kept confidential or as a condition for receiving federal funds. The meeting was held remotely due to the COVID-19 closure of the Achievement Service Center.

• Motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(a) for confidential records
• Meeting conducted remotely due to COVID-19 building closure

The Board met in a special closed session to discuss records required by state or federal law to be kept confidential. No substantive public decisions were recorded.

• Moved into closed session at 5:46PM (All ayes)
• Adjourned closed session at 6:35PM (All ayes)

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING 5:00PM VIA YOUTUBE

The Davenport Community School Board is holding a special virtual meeting to consider an amended resolution for pandemic response and emergency suspension of policy, as well as to vote on a contract with U.S. Cellular worth $29,760. The meeting is being streamed via YouTube due to the coronavirus closure of the Achievement Service Center.

• Approval of amended resolution for pandemic response and emergency suspension of policy
• Approval of contract with U.S. Cellular for $29,760
• Superintendent update on district operations

The Board approved an amended resolution for pandemic response, electing a voluntary online instruction model to ensure equity for students without internet access. The Board also approved a contract for student hotspots and committed to paying all staff through April 30th.

• Approved Amended Resolution – Pandemic Response and Emergency Suspension of Policy (All Ayes)
• Approved voluntary (rather than required) online instruction model (All Ayes)
• Approved payment of all staff through April 30th (All Ayes)
• Approved $29,760 contract with U.S. Cellular for hotspots (All Ayes)

REGULAR MEETING @ 6PM VIA YOUTUBE

The Davenport Community School District Board will consider a consent agenda that includes reading minutes from recent meetings, a contract for design engineers costing $31,500, and personnel actions. It will approve bills covering the periods 2/20/20‑3/4/20 and 3/5/20‑3/18/20. The board will also vote on a budget guarantee resolution to levy property taxes for fiscal year 2020‑2021 and on a pandemic response resolution that suspends certain policies. Additional discussion items include a bargaining policy.

• Contract for design engineers – $31,500
• Approval of FY21 property tax levy (budget guarantee resolution)
• Resolution for pandemic response and emergency suspension of policy
• Approval of bills for periods 2/20/20‑3/4/20 and 3/5/20‑3/18/20
• Reading and approval of minutes from prior meetings (consent agenda)

The board met via YouTube to prevent the spread of coronavirus. The board approved a consent agenda including a contract for design engineers and various certificated, supplemental, and classified personnel appointments.

• Approved contract for Design Engineers
• Approved certificated appointments for Casandra Aigbogun, Brandon Krusey, Denise Martin, and Amy Saskowski
• Approved supplemental contracts for Yolanda Bushong, Adam Creighton, Erin Hunter, Brandon Krusey, and Amy Saskowski
• Approved classified appointments for Ieashea Armstrong, Shannon Arnold, and Brittany Christenson

THIS WORKSHOP HAS BEEN CANCELLED AND WILL BE RE-SCHEDULED

The Davenport Community School District Board Workshop scheduled for March 16, 2020, has been cancelled. The meeting was intended to include a workshop for the Board and Superintendent conducted by the Iowa Association of School Board Staff.

• Workshop for Board and Superintendent conducted by Iowa Association of School Board Staff

SPECIAL CALL CLOSED MEETING AT 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District board will meet in open session, immediately move into closed session under Iowa law to conduct a hearing regarding suspension, expulsion, or exclusion of a student. Following the closed session, the board will return to open session to consider a recommendation concerning Student #1220.

• Closed session hearing under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(e) for student discipline
• Board recommendation regarding Student #1220

The Board held a closed session to determine the status of Student #1220. After reviewing evidence, the Board found the student violated regulations by possessing a loaded gun at school and vaping in class. The Board voted to expel the student until the start of the 3rd Quarter of the 2020-2021 school year.

• Expelled Student #1220 until the start of the 3rd Quarter of the 2020-2021 school year without services (3-1)
• Banned Student #1220 from all district property and school events (3-1)
• Required a recommendation from a District Hearing Officer for the readmission of Student #1220 (3-1)

Committee of the Whole Meeting @ 5:30

This Committee of the Whole meeting is for board discussion only, with no formal votes scheduled. The board will discuss the Iowa School Performance Report and the certified budget for fiscal year 2020-21.

• Discussion of Iowa School Performance Report data presented by Dr. Kobylski and Corri Guy
• Discussion of certified budget for FY 2020-21

The board received presentations on ESSA accountability data and the proposed certified budget for fiscal year 2020-21. No formal votes were taken; the budget guarantee and current year budget amendments were scheduled for the March 23rd meeting.

Exempt Session @ 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District Board will meet in an exempt (closed) session to discuss strategy for negotiations with a collective bargaining unit, as permitted under Iowa Code 20.17(3). No public decisions or votes will be taken during this session.

• Closed strategy session regarding collective bargaining negotiations (Iowa Code 20.17(3))

Regular Meeting

The Davenport Community School District Board will hold public hearings and vote on the Brady Street Security Camera Project plans, the 2020-21 school year start date of August 24, and a schedule of 1080 instructional hours. These decisions set the academic calendar and security upgrades for district students. The board will also consider an open enrollment request for student AW, which administration recommends denying. Routine actions include approving January and February bills and receiving a Phase II update.

• Public hearing and approval of plans for the Brady Street Security Camera Project
• Vote on a 1080-hour instructional schedule for the 2020-21 school year
• Vote on the August 24, 2020 start date for the 2020-21 school year
• Decision on an open enrollment request for student AW (recommended for denial)
• Approval of bill listings for January 23–February 19, 2020

The Board approved a consent agenda including the minutes from three previous meetings and various personnel appointments. These appointments included certificated teachers, supplemental athletic contracts, and classified staff. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved minutes for 1-20-20 Board Workshop
• Approved minutes for 1-27-20 Regular Meeting
• Approved minutes for 2-10-20 Board Workshop
• Approved certificated appointments for Jessica Ebener, Pamela Hayes Davis, and Eric Krogman
• Approved supplemental contracts for Shannon Buckley, Meghan McHugh, Anwar Muhammad, Dominique Nunn, Jaime Ragins, Brian Schutte, Alvin Sims, Ellery Stewart, and Julia Valleroy
• Approved classified appointments for Joan Aust, Lily Barnes, and Alemaris Castaneda

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING 5:00PM

The Davenport Community School District board will consider approving the progress report and SBRC exhibits for a March 10, 2020 School Budget Review Committee hearing. The meeting also includes an open forum for public input, though no action will be taken on issues not on the agenda. The agenda is limited to these two items and adjournment.

• Approval of SBRC exhibits and progress report for March 10 hearing

The board approved the progress report and SBRC exhibits for an upcoming hearing on March 10, 2020. The meeting primarily consisted of a presentation and discussion regarding an amended budget proposal to reduce $4.7 million, though no vote was taken on the budget cuts themselves.

• Approved progress report and SBRC exhibits for March 10, 2020 hearing (All ayes)

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING 5:00PM

This is a special call meeting of the Davenport Community School District board. The board will hear public comments during Open Forum and then discuss an update on district finances and planning for the FY2021 budget. No decisions will be made on items not on the agenda.

• Public Open Forum for community input on district issues
• Discussion of district finances and FY2021 budget planning

The board reviewed recommended budget cuts to reach a $4.7 million target due to declining student enrollment. No formal votes were taken on the specific proposals during this meeting.

BOARD WORKSHOP @ 5:00PM NOTE ALTERNATE LOCATION OF WORKSHOP

The board is holding a workshop conducted by Iowa Association of School Board Staff for the Board and Superintendent. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is a training/discussion session open for public observation.

• Workshop for Board and Superintendent led by Iowa Association of School Board Staff

Regular Meeting

The board will vote on several contracts and projects, including a $1.9 million boiler replacement at Hayes, a $241,100 security camera upgrade, and a $5.1 million state request for dropout prevention. Also up for approval are the comprehensive annual financial report and multiple policy changes.

• Approval of bid for Hayes Boiler Replacement Project: $1,919,500 to Hometown Plumbing and Heating
• Approval of bid for Security Camera Installation Upgrade Phase I: $241,100 to Tri-City Electric
• Approval of Modified Supplemental Amount for Dropout Prevention Program: $5,136,092 request to SBRC
• Approval of contract with BLDD Architects for restroom remodel: $102,500
• Approval to extend auditing contract with Bohnsack & Frommelt LLP: $162,075 for three years

The board approved two engineering contracts and a series of certificated personnel appointments. The meeting also included reports from students and board members, as well as public comments regarding class sizes.

• Approved Design Engineers contract for $25,000
• Approved IMEG contract for $31,900
• Approved certificated personnel appointments for multiple schools

BOARD WORKSHOP @ 5:00PM NOTE ALTERNATE LOCATION OF WORKSHOP

This is a board workshop meeting, not a regular business meeting. The only item is a workshop conducted by Iowa Association of School Board Staff for the board and superintendent. No decisions or votes are scheduled.

• Workshop for Board and Superintendent conducted by Iowa Association of School Board Staff

The board participated in a workshop led by the Iowa Association of School Boards regarding the district's mission statement and board roles. Members engaged in exercises to align decision-making processes with student achievement and financial stability. No formal votes or policy changes were decided.

• Discussed integration of district mission into board agendas and decision-making
• Conducted visioning exercise on goals for student achievement and financial stability

CANCELLED: Committee of the Whole Meeting scheduled for Monday 1/13 IS CANCELLED.

The Committee of the Whole meeting scheduled for Monday, January 13, 2020, has been cancelled. No business was conducted. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, January 27 at 6 PM.

SPECIAL CALL OPEN MEETING 5:30PM

The board will consider approving a request to the School Budget Review Committee for a modified supplemental amount of $9,275,489 to cover a negative unspent balance. They will also approve a corrective action plan to reduce expenditures and achieve a positive unspent balance by June 30, 2021.

• Approval of modified supplemental amount of $9,275,489 for SBRC hearing on 1/28/2020
• Negative unspent balance of $12,044,567 as of June 30, 2019, reduced by FY16 intentional overspending of $2,769,078
• Approval of corrective action plan to cut expenditures and achieve positive unspent balance by June 30, 2021

The board approved attending a School Budget Review Committee (SBRC) hearing on January 28, 2020. The board will request a modified supplemental amount of $9,275,489 and a corrective action plan to reduce expenditures.

• Approved request for modified supplemental amount of $9,275,489 (All ayes)
• Approved district corrective action plan to achieve positive unspent balance by June 30, 2021 (All ayes)