Des Moines Independent Community School District public meetings in 2020

Audit Committee Documents

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Audit Committee posted archived meeting minutes from 2015 through 2018 and final audit reports for those years. The agenda also includes the 2018 Audit Committee Charter and related internal audit resources.

• Posted minutes from 2015-2018 Audit Committee meetings
• Posted 2017 and 2018 final audit reports
• Posted Audit Committee Charter (2018)
• Posted Internal Audit Charter (2018)
• Posted CGCS Internal Audit Report

Special Board of Directors Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors held a special virtual meeting on December 30, 2020. The board considered and voted on a Return to Learn plan for the beginning of 2021. A motion passed to return Pre-K through 12th grade to a hybrid model beginning Monday, January 4. The vote was 4-3 in favor.

• Board voted 4-3 to approve hybrid Return to Learn model for Pre-K-12 starting January 4
• Motion by Teree Caldwell-Johnson, second by Kim Martorano
• Ayes: Teree Caldwell-Johnson, Kelli Soyer, Dwana Bradley, Kim Martorano
• Nays: Kyrstin Delagardelle, Rob Barron, Kalyn Cody

The Board of Directors decided that Pre-K through 12th grade students will return to a hybrid model. This change is scheduled to begin on Monday, January 4, 2021.

• Approved return to hybrid model for Pre-K through 12th grade beginning January 4, 2021 (4-3)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee will approve minutes from November 2020 and discuss a proposed retirement incentive for members. The committee will also review updates regarding active participants and injury compensation.

• Approval of November 10, 2020 minutes
• Discussion of retirement incentive proposal ($50,000 lump sum + $2,500/year for DMTRS members)
• Review of updated mortality tables and increased liability projections
• Updates on active participant plan and injury compensation
• Next meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, 2020

Special Board of Directors Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors met to discuss learning modalities. The board decided to direct Superintendent Dr. Ahart to file a state waiver to keep schools virtual for the following two weeks.

• Motion passed to file a state waiver to remain virtual for two weeks of the school year

The Board of Directors approved a motion to remain in virtual learning for the next two weeks of the school year. The Board also granted the Superintendent authority to file future waivers if community metrics exceed a specific threshold.

• Approved motion to file state waiver to remain virtual for two weeks (6-0)
• Approved authority for Superintendent to file additional waivers based on community metrics (4-2)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including bills totaling $1,935,406.02, architect payments of $5,104.80 for East Auditorium renovation, and contractor payments of $363,004.76 for multiple projects such as East HS Auditorium and DMPS Community Stadium. The board also approved minutes from previous meetings. A public forum was held before the regular meeting.

• Approved consent agenda including $1,935,406.02 in bills
• Authorized architect payment of $5,104.80 for East Auditorium Renovation
• Authorized contractor payments of $363,004.76 for projects including East HS Auditorium and DMPS Community Stadium
• Approved minutes from November 17 and November 22 meetings
• Held public forum for non-agenda items

The Board approved a maximum funding request of $10,969,484 for Dropout Prevention and granted an electrical easement to MidAmerican Energy Company. Two motions to accept 3rd grade reading reports as evidence of policy compliance failed. The Board also approved over $1.9M in consent agenda payments.

• Approved $10,969,484 maximum funding for Dropout Prevention (6-0)
• Approved permanent underground electrical easement to MidAmerican Energy Company (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,935,406.02 in payments (6-0)
• Denied acceptance of 3rd grade reading report for all students as policy compliance (3-3)
• Denied acceptance of 3rd grade reading report for Black males as policy compliance (3-3)
• Approved receipt of COVID-19 monitoring report (6-0)
• Approved agenda and minutes from Nov 17 and Nov 22 (6-0)

Special Board of Directors Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Special Board met virtually on November 22, 2020. The board considered a waiver application to continue remote instruction from November 30 through December 11, as recommended by the superintendent. The board voted to approve the waiver, and the motion passed.

• Waiver application to continue virtual instruction (Nov 30–Dec 11) – motion passed
• Roll call of board members
• Meeting adjourned at 4:27 pm

The Board of Directors voted to apply for a waiver from the Iowa Department of Education. This waiver would allow the district to continue remote instruction from Monday, November 30 through Friday, December 11.

• Approved application for Iowa Department of Education waiver to continue remote instruction Nov 30 to Dec 11 (7-0)

DMPS CLAT - Coffee with Legislators

The Des Moines Independent Community School District's CLAT (Coffee with Legislators) virtual meeting will feature an announcement of the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities, along with a presentation of feedback from listening sessions and a budget presentation by CFO Shashank Aurora. The meeting also includes a Q&A session.

• Announcement of the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities
• Presentation of feedback from CLAT Listening Sessions (held in September 2020) and summary of CLAT Action Summit (October 24)
• Budget Presentation by DMPS CFO Shashank Aurora
• Q&A session

Board of Directors

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board will hold a public forum, approve the meeting agenda and minutes from November 3 and 8, 2020, and then vote on consent items. Consent items include authorizing architect/engineer payments of $124,820.83 and contractor and supplier payments of $910,483.47. All approvals will be made by a single motion of the board.

• Vote on all consent items
• Approve architect/engineer payments totaling $124,820.83
• Approve contractor and supplier payments totaling $910,483.47
• Approve agenda for the meeting
• Approve minutes from November 3 and November 8, 2020

Work Session on Board Development

The Des Moines school board will hold a work session to discuss policy governance. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for board development and training. The meeting is virtual via Teams.

• Discussion of Policy Governance as a board development topic

Special Board of Directors Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Special Board will meet virtually on November 8, 2020. The agenda includes a discussion and possible action on a recommendation from Dr. Ahart regarding learning modality. Public comment will be accepted by signing up in advance or at the meeting. The meeting will conclude with an adjournment.

• Discussion of Dr. Ahart's recommendation on learning modality (Discussion/Action)
• Call to order
• Roll call
• Public comment sign‑up instructions
• Meeting adjournment

The Board of Directors approved a motion to apply for a state waiver to move PK-12th grade to fully virtual instruction. A separate motion to transition preschool, elementary, and middle schools to virtual learning on November 16 and delay high school in-person instruction was denied.

• Approved application for state waiver to move PK-12th grade to fully virtual (6-1)
• Denied transition of preschool, elementary, and middle schools to virtual on Nov 16 and delay of high school in-person instruction (3-4)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved the agenda, minutes from October 20, and a consent agenda including $6,637,254.14 in bills and final acceptance of construction projects at North High School, Lincoln High School, Weeks Middle School, and Monroe Elementary.

• Approval of $6,637,254.14 in bills
• Final acceptance of North High School Band Room Storage Upgrade ($71,866)
• Final acceptance of Lincoln High School Classrooms in Library and Small Gym Upgrade ($241,741)
• Final acceptance of Weeks Middle School Auditorium Upgrades ($447,000)
• Final acceptance of Monroe Elementary Community Room Renovation ($293,396.40)

The Board approved a consent agenda including $6,637,254.14 in authorized payments and personnel recommendations. The board also accepted the ML 2.11 report. Legislative priorities for the 2021 session were presented for consideration.

• Approved consent agenda including $6,637,254.14 in bills (6-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (6-0)
• Accepted ML 2.11 report as evidence of substantial compliance (6-0)
• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved October 20, 2020 meeting minutes (6-0)

Board of Directors - Work Session

The Des Moines School Board will hold a work session with a single substantive item: a discussion on metrics for COVID-19 instructional modalities. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion on metrics for deciding instructional modalities during the COVID-19 pandemic

DMPS Community Legislative Action Summit

The Des Moines Independent Community School District held a virtual Community Legislative Action Summit on October 24, 2020. The agenda contains only one item: discussion of archived agenda and minutes under category 'A. Archived Agenda and Minutes'. No other business or public hearings are listed; the meeting appears to be procedural or informational.

• Discussion of archived agenda and minutes (DMPS CLAT)

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will meet in open session only to vote on a motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose appointment, hiring, performance, or discharge is being considered, at that individual's request. No public access will be allowed during the closed session. The board will reconvene in open session solely to adjourn.

• Motion to enter closed session for personnel evaluation (Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i))
• No public access during closed session

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board will hold a public forum and regular meeting on October 20, 2020. Action items include approval of minutes from previous meetings and a consent agenda containing multiple payment authorizations. The consent agenda covers $3,142,672.37 in bills, $394,980.74 in procurement card transactions, $125,365.32 in architect payments, and $1,288,530.51 in contractor payments for various district projects.

• Consent agenda approving $3,142,672.37 in bills and $394,980.74 in procurement card transactions
• Architect payments of $125,365.32 including East Auditorium Renovation ($5,955.60) and Community Stadium ($89,310.45)
• Contractor payments of $1,288,530.51 including Callanan Auditorium Upgrade ($171,440.80) and Park Avenue Restroom ($13,622.40)
• Approval of minutes from September 21, September 30, and October 6, 2020 meetings
• Public forum at 5:45 p.m. for speakers on non-agenda items

The Board approved the sale of bus cameras and infrastructure and the sale of a portion of the Fremont Street right-of-way to University Group, LLC for $1.00. The Board also approved plans for the Brody Chiller Project and accepted a monitoring report on the treatment of employees.

• Approved sale of transportation equipment (bus cameras and infrastructure)
• Approved sale of vacated Fremont Street ROW to University Group, LLC for $1.00
• Approved plans and specifications for B8568 Brody Chiller Replacement
• Approved $3,142,672.37 in authorized bills and $394,980.74 in procurement card transactions
• Accepted Monitoring Report 2.3: Treatment of Employees 2020
• Approved award of contract for excavation and grading for Community Stadium Project
• Approved minutes from September 21, September 30, and October 6, 2020

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

This is a largely procedural meeting of the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Advisory Committee. The committee will approve the agenda and minutes from June 30, 2020, then discuss the DMTRS Annual Report and an update on proposals from June. No binding votes on benefits or investments are scheduled.

• Approval of agenda and minutes from June 30, 2020
• Discussion: Review of DMTRS Annual Report
• Discussion: Update on June proposals
• Set next meeting date and adjourn

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from June 30, 2020. Members discussed the need for an updated mortality table and a proposal for increased employer contributions. The committee identified specific deliverables required from Gallagher regarding assets, liability, and service compensation.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved June 30, 2020 minutes

Closed Session

The Des Moines School Board will hold a closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual whose hiring or performance is being considered. The meeting is scheduled for Sunday, October 18, 2020, at 1:30 p.m. and will be held virtually.

• Closed session for personnel evaluation
• Meeting held virtually
• No public access during closed session

The Board met in a closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i). No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session
• Approved motion to return to open session

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including $7.5 million in bills and resolutions to hold public hearings on selling transportation equipment and vacated street property. The meetings will be held electronically on October 20.

• Approval of $7,523,008.55 in bills
• Resolution to sell bus cameras to Bankers Trust for $444,270.77
• Resolution to sell vacated Fremont Street ROW for $1.00
• Public hearing on bus camera sale set for Oct 20, 2020
• Public hearing on street property sale set for Oct 20, 2020

Closed Session

The board will meet in open session to vote on a motion to go into closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the professional competency of an individual. Following the closed session, the board will reconvene in open session to adjourn. The public cannot access the closed session. No other business is on the agenda.

• Motion to enter closed session pursuant to Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) for evaluation of an individual's professional competency

The Board met in a closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i). No substantive decisions were recorded in the open session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session
• Approved motion to return to open session

Board of Directors - Special Meeting

The Des Moines school board holds a virtual special meeting. The main item is a discussion and possible action on metrics for the Return to Learn plan, with two template documents attached. The rest of the agenda is procedural.

• Metrics for Return to Learn Discussion (Discussion/Action) with two attached template documents

The Board of Directors voted to return to school using a hybrid model. The board also established specific metrics regarding positive case rates, positivity averages, and student and staff absenteeism to guide future changes in learning modality.

• Approved return to school using the hybrid model (6-1)

DMPS Community Legislative Action Team Listening Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District is holding a virtual listening session for its Community Legislative Action Team. The meeting is scheduled for September 26, 2020, at 9:00 am via Zoom.

• Virtual meeting via Zoom
• Community Legislative Action Team Listening Session
• Registration available online
• Contact: Kelli Soyer

Closed Session

The Board of Directors will meet in a virtual closed session to discuss legal strategy with counsel. This discussion pertains to matters currently in litigation or where litigation is imminent under Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c).

• Closed session regarding litigation strategy per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c)

The Board met in a closed session from 4:34pm to 5:58pm. The session was held per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c) to discuss strategy with counsel regarding present or imminent litigation.

• Approved motion to enter closed session
• Approved motion to return to open session

DMPS Community Legislative Action Team Listening Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District's Community Legislative Action Team is holding a virtual listening session. The agenda contains only a discussion item with no specific proposals or topics listed. This appears to be a procedural meeting for community input on legislative matters.

• Agenda contains only a general discussion item with no details.

Board of Directors - Special Meeting

The Board of Directors decided on a phased hybrid return to learn schedule for students. They also adopted metrics to guide future recommendations regarding instructional modes related to COVID-19 for the 2020-2021 school year.

• Approved hybrid return dates: PK October 12, K-5 October 19, 6-8 October 26, and 9-12 November 10
• Approved plans for Policy 2.11 and its monitoring calendar
• Adopted metrics for superintendent recommendations on COVID-19 instructional modes

The Board of Directors approved a hybrid return to learn plan with specific transition dates for different grade levels. The plan allows families to choose between hybrid and fully virtual options, with specific instructional models for high school, middle school, elementary, and pre-school.

• Approved hybrid return to learn plan for PK starting Oct 12 (6-1)
• Approved hybrid return to learn plan for K-5 starting Oct 19 (6-1)
• Approved hybrid return to learn plan for 6-8 starting Oct 26 (6-1)
• Approved hybrid return to learn plan for 9-12 starting Nov 10 (6-1)
• Approved meeting agenda (6-0, 1 abstain)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines school board approved the meeting agenda and minutes from the previous meeting. The board also approved a consent agenda authorizing payments of $8.68 million for bills and $124,723 for architect services.

• Approval of September 1, 2020 minutes
• Approval of $8,342,694.71 in bills
• Approval of $124,723.13 in architect payments
• Approval of $4,182,097.69 in contractor payments
• Public forum for non-agenda items

The Board of Directors approved a directive for the District to implement a compliant hybrid learning model in addition to virtual instruction, contingent upon public health metrics. The board also approved the sale of property at 230 37th Street and several consent items including millions in payments.

• Approved implementation of a compliant hybrid learning model based on public health metrics (4-3)
• Approved sale of property at 230 37th Street
• Approved $8,342,694.71 in previously authorized bills
• Approved $342,335.09 in procurement card transactions
• Approved Imagine Learning purchase for high-need ELL students
• Approved revisions to Board Policy 407 and Board Policy 490
• Approved personnel recommendations
• Approved minutes from September 1, 2020

Return to Learn Work Session

This is a work session of the Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors. The only agenda item is a discussion on the Return to Learn update. No decisions or votes are scheduled.

• Return to Learn Update (discussion only)

Closed Session

The Board of Directors will vote to go into a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel on matters currently in litigation or where litigation is imminent. The discussion is intended to avoid disclosing information that could prejudice the district's position. After the closed session, the board will reconvene in open session to adjourn.

• Motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c) to discuss litigation strategy with counsel

The Board moved into a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding current or imminent litigation. The meeting then returned to open session and adjourned.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c)
• Approved motion to return to open session

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including over $10 million in bills and several educational contracts. The board also scheduled a public hearing for the sale of a district property.

• Approval of bills previously authorized for payment in the amount of $10,440,853.97
• Resolution to hold a public hearing on September 15, 2020, for the sale of 230 37th St to Tanner and Emily Kinzler for $405,000.00
• Contract renewal with FACTS Education Solutions for Title I program services for FY21 up to $456,483.00
• Purchase of digital texts from Mackin Educational Resources for K-8 English Language Arts for $222,989.62

The Board approved a consent agenda including $10,440,853.97 in authorized payments and several operational items. The Board also voted to hold a public hearing regarding the issuance of approximately $45,960,000 in school infrastructure refunding bonds.

• Approved consent agenda including bills for $10,440,853.97
• Approved resolution to hold public hearing for the sale of 230 37th Street
• Approved RFP7554-3 Title I third party provider renewal
• Approved purchase of digital texts for K-8 English Language Arts
• Approved K-8 English Language Arts curriculum implementation services
• Approved denial of open enrollment late applications
• Approved denial of open enrollment appeal
• Approved proposed issuance of approximately $45,960,000 school infrastructure sales, services and use tax revenue refunding bonds

School Resource Officer - Workshop

The Board of Directors is holding a workshop focused on School Resource Officers (SRO). This meeting is designated as a discussion session.

• School Resource Officer (SRO) discussion

Audit Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Public Schools Audit Committee will meet virtually to approve the previous meeting's minutes and receive reports on business and finance, COVID-19 activity, internal audit updates, and the 2021 audit plan and risk assessment. The agenda is largely procedural with no specific action items listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 24, 2020
• Business and Finance update (likely covering a $24 million budget reduction discussed previously)
• COVID-19 activity report
• Internal audit update and 2021 plan / risk assessment status

Closed Session

The Des Moines School Board will meet in closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation. No public access is permitted during this session.

• Closed session for litigation strategy
• Discussion with counsel
• No public access during closed session

New Board Member Orientation

The board is conducting an orientation for the appointee filling the District 3 vacancy. This is a procedural special meeting.

• Orientation for District 3 vacancy appointee

Board of Directors - RESCHEDULED TO MONDAY

The board approved a consent agenda including $22,328,604.59 in bills and $733,073.19 in procurement card transactions. It also authorized architect/engineer payments of $98,212.30 and contractor payments of $3,821,369.06. Kim Martorano was sworn in to fill the vacant District 1 director seat.

• Consent agenda approved: $22,328,604.59 in bills and $733,073.19 in procurement card transactions
• Swearing in of Kim Martorano as new director for District 1
• Architect/engineer payments of $98,212.30 for multiple school projects
• Contractor payments of $3,821,369.06
• Open enrollment appeal items moved to 'Other' for separate consideration

The Board of Directors decided to begin the school year with 100% virtual instruction and will apply for a waiver from the Iowa Department of Education to do so. The district will transition to the Return to Learn plan once COVID-19 conditions in Polk County allow for safe in-person instruction.

• Approved starting school year with fully virtual instruction (7-0)
• Approved application for Iowa Department of Education waiver to start 100% virtual (7-0)
• Approved $22,328,604.59 in previously authorized bills (7-0)
• Approved $733,073.19 in procurement card transactions (7-0)
• Denied Open Enrollment Appeal for Denial (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Denied Open Enrollment Late Applications for Denial (6-0, 1 abstain)
• Accepted Management Limitations 2.11 Emergency Covid-19 Pandemic language (7-0)
• Approved July 7, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)

Closed Session

The Board of Directors will move to a closed session to discuss strategy with legal counsel regarding matters that are currently in litigation or where litigation is imminent, as permitted by Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c). The discussion is intended to avoid disclosing information that could prejudice the district’s position. After the closed session, the board will reconvene in open session to adjourn.

• Motion to enter closed session to discuss litigation strategy per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c)

The board voted to enter a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding current or imminent litigation. The board subsequently voted to return to open session and adjourned.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c) (6-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (6-0)

Closed Session

The Des Moines School Board will meet in closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 4, 2020, at 12:00 p.m. via a virtual platform.

• Closed session to discuss litigation strategy with counsel
• Meeting held virtually on August 4, 2020
• No public access during the closed session

The board voted to enter a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding current or imminent litigation. The board subsequently voted to return to open session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c) (6-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (6-0)

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding pending or imminent litigation. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 3, 2020, at 12:00 p.m. via a virtual platform. No public access will be permitted during this session.

• Closed session to discuss litigation strategy with counsel
• Meeting to be held virtually on August 3, 2020
• No public access during the closed session

The board voted to enter a closed session per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c) to discuss strategy with counsel regarding present or imminent litigation. The board later voted to return to open session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session to discuss litigation strategy
• Approved motion to move into open session

Return to Learn Workshop

The Board of Directors is meeting for a workshop to discuss a Return to Learn update. This is a discussion-based meeting held via virtual Teams.

• Discussion of Return to Learn Update

The board met for a Return to Learn Workshop. The session consisted of a discussion regarding the submission of a new return to learn plan to the state.

SEL Workshop

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board held a SEL (Social Emotional Learning) workshop on July 21, 2020. The agenda listed only one discussion item: SEL, with no further details provided. This was a virtual meeting with call-in options.

• Discussion of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) — no specific proposals or decisions listed

Return to Learn Workshop

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board will hold a virtual Return to Learn workshop on July 19, 2020. The meeting is a discussion of the Return to Learn topic, with opportunities for participants to sign up to speak. No specific decisions or proposals are listed in the agenda.

The Board met to discuss a new proclamation announced on Friday. The discussion focused on how this proclamation would affect the current DMPS Return to Learn plan.

Anti-Racism Workshop

The Board of Directors will conduct an Anti-Racism Workshop. This meeting is scheduled as a discussion session.

• Anti-Racism Workshop discussion

Board of Directors

The board voted to approve the consent agenda, which included authorizing bills previously approved for payment totaling $10,615,746.69. Additionally, the board approved architect payments of $26,352.35 and contractor payments of $2,608,909.94 for various school renovation and construction projects. The meeting also included a public forum and approval of minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approval of consent agenda with $10,615,746.69 in bills
• Architect payments: East Auditorium Renovation ($8,912.15), Pleasant Hill Addition ($4,375.80), and more totaling $26,352.35
• Contractor payments: Park Avenue Restroom Upgrade ($88,819.76), Central Academy Art ($191,318.60), and others totaling $2,608,909.94
• Preschool contracts moved from consent for separate vote

The Board approved a consent agenda including a 28E agreement with Drake University for community stadium use and payments totaling $10,615,746.69. The Board also adopted a resolution to continue participation in the Instructional Support System and approved preschool 28E agreements.

• Approved consent agenda including $10,615,746.69 in bills (7-0)
• Approved Drake 28E Agreement for Community Stadium (7-0)
• Approved award of design services for Drake University stadium project (7-0)
• Approved Instructional Support Levy (ISL) reauthorization (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved Preschool 28E Agreements (5-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved June 16, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will meet in open session to vote on a motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c). The closed session is to discuss strategy with counsel in litigation or imminent litigation matters. Following the closed session, the board will reconvene in open session to adjourn. The meeting is virtual and there will be no public access during the closed session.

• Motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(c) for litigation strategy discussion
• Virtual meeting via Teams
• No public access during closed session

Board Deliberation on applicants

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board will deliberate on candidates to fill the District 1 vacancy. The meeting is a virtual Teams session scheduled for July 1, 2020.

• Board deliberation on District 1 director applicants
• Approval of the agenda
• Roll call
• Public comment sign-up available online or by phone
• Virtual Teams meeting

Applicant Interviews for Board Vacancy

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will interview four candidates to fill a board vacancy. The meeting is scheduled for June 30, 2020, via virtual format. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Interview schedule: Kim Martorano at 5:30 PM, Kim Boggus at 6:00 PM, Lanon Baccam at 6:30 PM, Z-Shan Bhaidani at 7:00 PM
• Public may sign up to speak in advance or at the meeting

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee will meet virtually to approve prior minutes and review current proposals for the retirement system. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 30, 2020.

• Approval of minutes from May 13, 2020
• Review of current DMTRS proposals
• Next meeting date to be set

The committee reviewed three proposals to address the financial gap between the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) and IPERS. The proposals include options for early retirement incentives, partial plan termination, and merging active members into IPERS. No final decision on the proposals was recorded.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved May 13, 2020 minutes

Applicant Interviews for Board Vacancy

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will interview five candidates to fill a board vacancy. Interviews are scheduled from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM on June 29, 2020.

• 5:30 PM: Nina Richtman
• 6:00 PM: Mazie Stilwell
• 6:30 PM: Jackie Norris
• 7:00 PM: Lloyd Elam
• 7:30 PM: Emily Westergaard

Work Session - Board Member Vacancy Deliberation

The Des Moines school board holds a work session to deliberate on applicants for a board member vacancy and decide on interviews. No other business is on the agenda.

• Board members will deliberate applicants and decide interviews for the board vacancy

Return to Learn Workshop

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors is holding a virtual workshop to discuss the Return to Learn plan for the 2020-2021 school year. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at 12:00pm.

• Return to Learn Workshop
• Virtual Teams Meeting
• Call-in access available
• Public comment sign-up required

Community Board Governance / Role of Board Workshop

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors is meeting for a workshop focused on board governance and the role of the board. The agenda contains only a single new agenda item with no specific proposals or decisions listed. This appears to be a procedural or educational session rather than a meeting with actionable items.

• Workshop on Community Board Governance and Role of Board
• Virtual meeting with call-in option

Board of Directors

The board is considering a consent agenda that includes authorizing $2,061,956.25 in contractor payments for projects at schools such as East HS, Lincoln, Harding, and others, plus $22,625.65 in architect payments. The meeting also includes a public forum and approval of minutes from June 2, 2020.

• Contractor payments totaling $2,061,956.25 for projects including East HS Auditorium, Lincoln Pool HVAC, Harding Science Room, and others
• Architect payments of $22,625.65 for projects at Kurtz, Lincoln, Harding, Hoover, Meredith, Roosevelt, and Jefferson
• Approval of revised agenda and minutes from June 2, 2020

The Board approved a consent agenda including $4,140,744.91 in bills and $174,696.51 in procurement card transactions. Members also approved several FY21 compensation plans and a monitoring report regarding Black male students in Algebra I.

• Approved $4,140,744.91 in bills and $174,696.51 in procurement card transactions
• Approved FY21 compensation for substitute staff, DMEA teachers, and AFSCME
• Approved FY21 compensation election lists for administrators and teachers/specialists
• Approved FY20-21 high-volume technology purchases
• Approved FY20-21 contract renewals and cooperative procurement programs
• Approved Superintendent contract and RSM US LLP audit services
• Approved monitoring report for Algebra I, Part 4 – Black Male Students
• Approved FY 20-21 Board meeting dates

Work Session - Panorama Training: Board Goal-Setting

This is a work session of the Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors for Panorama Training focused on board goal-setting. The agenda contains only one new agenda item with no specific details provided. No decisions or concrete actions are scheduled.

• Single agenda item: 'New Agenda Item' with no description

The Board held a work session to review Social Emotional Learning (SEL) data and discuss goal setting with Panorama. No formal votes or policy decisions were recorded.

Work Session on School Board Appointment Process

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a virtual work session to discuss the process for appointing board members. The meeting will be held via Teams and phone call on June 8, 2020.

• Work session on School Board Appointment Process
• Virtual Teams Meeting and phone access available
• Call in #: 319-359-6302
• Access#: 943 038 577#
• Sign up to speak via online form or call 242-7713

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including $4.76 million in bills and three facility service contracts totaling $1.73 million. The board also approved software for grammar support.

• Approval of $4,763,904.10 in bills
• Construction services contract for $750,000
• Electrical services contract for $850,000
• Fueling station upgrade for $125,456.39
• Grammar support software for $130,528.80

The Board approved a consent agenda including $4,763,904.10 in bills and various service contracts. Members also voted to continue participation in the Instructional Support Program and schedule a public hearing. Board member Heather Anderson announced her resignation effective July 31.

• Approved consent agenda including $4,763,904.10 in bills (7-0)
• Approved RFP8509 Construction Services (7-0)
• Approved RFP8510 Electrical Services (7-0)
• Approved RFP8511 Fueling Station Upgrade & Maintenance Service (7-0)
• Approved B8226 Grammar Support Software System (7-0)
• Approved textbooks for Bergman Academy (7-0)
• Approved award of Architectural Design Service for Restroom/Locker Room Upgrades (7-0)
• Approved continuation of Instructional Support Program and public hearing (7-0)

Work Session - DMTRS and Committee Facilitators Proposals

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session to discuss proposals for DMTRS and Committee Facilitators. The meeting will be held virtually.

• Discussion of DMTRS proposals
• Discussion of Committee Facilitators proposals
• Work session open to public observation

The Board held a work session to discuss the DMTRS plan and proposals for committee facilitators regarding the facilities advisory committee. No formal decisions were recorded in the minutes.

Closed Session

The Board of Directors will meet in a closed session to discuss strategy with counsel. This session concerns matters currently in litigation or where litigation is imminent.

• Discussion of legal strategy per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(c)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved the agenda, minutes from the previous meeting, and a consent agenda that included $4.7 million in bills and $1.7 million in contractor payments for various construction projects. The meeting was held virtually.

• Approval of May 5, 2020 Board minutes
• Consent agenda: $4,557,012.73 in bills
• Consent agenda: $1,688,606.45 in contractor payments
• Architect payments: $18,242.25
• Consent agenda: $130,167.29 in procurement card transactions

The Board of Directors approved the FY2021 budget and a budget amendment for FY2020. Members also voted to use SAVE revenue for an athletic facility infrastructure project. Additionally, the board approved a series of consent items including bills and procurement transactions.

• Approved FY 2021 Budget Hearing and Adoption (7-0)
• Approved FY 2020 Budget Amendment and Hearing (7-0)
• Approved use of SAVE revenue for Athletic Facility Infrastructure Project (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $4,557,012.73 in bills and $130,167.29 in procurement card transactions (7-0)
• Approved report on Algebra I, Part 3 – Black Male Students (7-0)
• Approved May 5, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee will consider approving the agenda and minutes from March 11, 2020. The main business is receiving a first-quarter 2020 performance report from BTC and an update from investment consultant Ahlers, followed by a discussion on ERS (state retirement system).

• Approval of minutes from March 11, 2020
• Review of BTC first quarter 2020 report
• Update from Ahlers (investment consultant)
• Discussion on ERS (state retirement system)

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the March 11, 2020, minutes. Members reviewed the Investment Policy Statement as of March 31, 2020, and discussed potential plan amendments and the creation of an Employment Retirement Scheme. A small group was formed to evaluate options regarding employer contributions and IPERS transfers.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved March 11, 2020 minutes
• Formed small group to discuss retirement options, timeline, and contributions

Work Session on Community Stadium and Ad Hoc Athletic Committee

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session to discuss the Community Stadium, including a topic noted as “Scavo.” The session also includes a new agenda item that allows the public to sign up in advance to speak. The meeting will be conducted via a virtual Teams platform and is open for public observation. No decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Discussion of Community Stadium (including Scavo)
• New agenda item – public sign‑up to speak at the meeting

The board conducted a work session to discuss the Community Stadium and the Ad Hoc Athletic Committee. No substantive decisions were recorded during this session.

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda that included the payment of $4,254,949.62 in bills and a resolution to hold a public hearing on May 19, 2020, regarding the proposed use of $15,000,000 in SAVE revenue for an athletic facility project in cooperation with Drake University.

• Approval of $4,254,949.62 in bills
• Resolution to hold public hearing on May 19, 2020, for Drake University stadium project
• Formation of Board Ad Hoc Athletic Facilities Committee
• Approval of legal representation agreement for Drake and DMPS
• Approval of April 21, 2020, board minutes

The Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including $4,254,949.62 in bills and various administrative resolutions. The board also accepted a monitoring report on 3rd grade reading progress. Discussions were held regarding potential in-person graduation ceremonies and COVID-19 safety.

• Approved consent agenda including $4,254,949.62 in bills (7-0)
• Approved resolution for hearing on SAVE revenue for Athletic Facility Infrastructure project (7-0)
• Approved RFD8484 EL Education Language Arts and Illustrative Math Curriculum Materials (7-0)
• Approved resolution on Congressional COVID-19 education relief (7-0)
• Approved denial of late open enrollment applications (7-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (7-0)
• Accepted 3rd grade reading monitoring report 4.1.1 (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda and April 21, 2020 minutes (7-0)

Work Session on Community Stadium

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a virtual work session to discuss the Community Stadium project. The meeting is open to the public and will be held via Teams or phone call.

• Work session on Community Stadium
• Discussion on Scavo project
• Virtual meeting via Teams or phone
• Public observation allowed

Closed Session

The Des Moines School Board will meet in closed session to evaluate the competency of an individual employee who requested the session, as permitted by Iowa Code. Following the closed session, the board will reconvene in open session only to adjourn. No other business is on the agenda.

• Motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate employee competency

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

• Approved motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i)
• Approved motion to return to open session

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting. The board also approved a consent agenda that included $2.6 million in bills and $736,000 in contractor payments for various construction projects.

• Approval of April 7, 2020 minutes
• Approval of $2,631,760.90 in bills
• Approval of $736,454.66 in procurement cards
• Approval of $42,170.15 in architect payments
• Approval of $736,378.56 in contractor payments

The Board approved a consent agenda including $2,631,760.90 in authorized bills and $736,454.66 in procurement card payments. The board also accepted a progress report on 3rd grade reading benchmarks for black male students.

• Approved consent agenda including $2,631,760.90 in bills and $736,454.66 in procurement cards (7-0)
• Approved contract for Callanan Middle School Auditorium Upgrade (7-0)
• Approved purchase of an additional bus via RFP8470 (7-0)
• Approved final acceptance of BB401 subcontractors Central Iowa Mechanical and Trinity Construction Group (7-0)
• Approved final acceptance of Hoover High School exterior doors and window repair Q8356 (7-0)
• Accepted report on black male 3rd grade reading, part 3 (7-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (7-0)
• Approved April 7, 2020 meeting minutes (7-0)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a budget adjustment guarantee and voted on consent items including $894,000 in bus contracts and $226,200 in computer leasing fees.

• Approval of Budget Adjustment Guarantee resolution
• Award of $894,000 contract to Hoglund Bus Company for eight new buses
• Approval of $226,200 computer leasing schedule increase
• Approval of $140,375 contract to Street Smarts for driver education
• Approval of $12.6 million in bills and procurement cards

The Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including over $12.6 million in bills and procurement card transactions. The board also accepted a report on social and emotional learning (SEL) and discussed the transition to distance learning.

• Approved bills previously authorized for payment in the amount of $11,941,719.78
• Approved procurement cards transactions in the amount of $677,942.75
• Approved budget adjustment (guarantee) resolution
• Approved computer leasing schedule (RFP7424)
• Approved student driver education instruction (RFP8412)
• Approved new student school buses FY21 (RFP8479)
• Approved ready mix products and services (B8487)
• Approved Walnut Street Chiller (B8456)

Des Moines Public Schools Foundation

The Des Moines Public Schools Foundation board will approve the meeting agenda and February minutes, then nominate and elect a Vice Chair. It will also discuss a library funds transfer, the OneRun program, Polk County grant opportunities, and review the financial report and budget. Committee reports from the Development and Executive Committees will be presented before adjourning.

• Nominate and elect Vice Chair
• Library Funds Transfer
• OneRun discussion
• Polk County Grants and Community Foundation Leadership Grant
• Financial Report and budget

Work Session on COVID-19

The Des Moines School Board will hold a work session to discuss the current community COVID-19 reality and the district's plans to serve students and families. The meeting is open to the public and will be conducted via conference call.

• Discussion on district response to COVID-19
• Presentation by a medical expert
• Public observation of board discussion

Closed Session - Canceled

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors had scheduled a closed‑session meeting for March 18, 2020 to consider a motion to evaluate the competency of an individual employee in a closed session. The meeting was canceled, so the board will not take any action on that motion.

• Meeting canceled – no motion on employee competency will be considered

Closed Session - Cancelled

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors cancelled its scheduled closed session on March 16, 2020. The agenda listed a motion to enter closed session to evaluate the professional competency of an individual, as permitted by Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i).

• Closed session cancelled
• Motion to evaluate professional competency
• Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i) cited

Superintendent Compensation Committee Conference Call

The Superintendent Compensation Committee is meeting via conference call to discuss recommendations for the annual superintendent compensation package. The committee has authority to incur costs for compensation surveys and outside legal counsel. This is a discussion session with no scheduled votes, open for public observation.

• Discussion of annual superintendent compensation package recommendations
• Authority to incur costs for compensation surveys and outside counsel

DMPS Community Legislative Action Team - Canceled

The Des Moines Community Legislative Action Team meeting scheduled for March 14, 2020, was canceled. The agenda included discussion topics such as Board SMART Goals, social emotional limitations, and funding needs.

• Meeting canceled
• Topic: Board SMART Goals
• Topic: Board Limitations on Social Emotional
• Topic: DMPS Funding Needs

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee will review BTC and financial reports. The meeting includes a discussion of a revised Investment Policy Statement and an update regarding Ahlers Law.

• Revised Investment Policy Statement including changes to Fixed Income, Equity, and US Large-Cap/Mid-Cap allocation ranges
• Changes to investment benchmarks for US Large-Cap/Mid-Cap and US Small Cap equity
• Ahlers Law plan update and amendment regarding plan participation

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the February 13, 2020, minutes. Members discussed a potential early retirement scheme for FY21 and the possibility of closing the plan to active employees. No final decisions were made regarding the retirement scheme or plan termination.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved February 13, 2020 minutes

Superintendent Compensation Committee Conference Call

The Superintendent Compensation Committee is holding a conference call to discuss the annual compensation package for the Superintendent. This process is intended to provide recommendations for Board consideration alongside the Superintendent's review.

• Development of annual Superintendent compensation package recommendations
• Authority to incur costs for compensation surveys
• Authority to use outside counsel to draft the contract

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors met to approve several financial items including large-scale district bills and specific architect and contractor payments. The meeting included a public forum and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Approval of $8,975,087.82 in authorized bills
• Approval of $350,970.72 in procurement card transactions
• Architect payments totaling $47,917.48 for various school projects
• Contractor payments totaling $189,700.62 for several renovations
• Proposed contract award of $465,000.00 for Central Academy Pottery Studio renovation

The Board approved the sale of property at Pleasant Hill Elementary School to the City of Pleasant Hill. Members also approved a consent agenda including several construction contracts and over $9.3 million in payments. The Board accepted a monitoring report regarding Algebra I performance for Black male students.

• Approved sale of Pleasant Hill Elementary property to City of Pleasant Hill for $1.00
• Approved $8,975,087.82 in previously authorized bills
• Approved $350,970.72 in procurement card transactions
• Awarded contract for Central Academy Pottery Studio renovation
• Awarded contract for FCS and/or Science Room upgrades at four schools
• Awarded contract for new concession/restroom utility building at East HS Williams Field
• Accepted monitoring report for Algebra I, Part 2 – Black Males
• Approved agenda and February 18, 2020 minutes

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will meet in closed session to discuss strategy with counsel regarding imminent or ongoing litigation. The meeting is scheduled for 5:00-6:00 p.m. on February 26, 2020, at 2100 Fleur Drive.

• Closed session for litigation strategy
• Meeting location: 2100 Fleur Drive
• Meeting time: 5:00-6:00 p.m.

The Board of Directors met in a closed session. No substantive decisions or actions were recorded in the minutes.

• Approved motion to enter closed session (7-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (7-0)

SEAC

The SEAC meeting will discuss board goals for community collaborative problem‑solving, receive updates from task forces on early literacy, social‑emotional learning and Algebra I, and present information on the 2020‑2021 budget and legislative priorities. The committee will also set the date for the next meeting on June 18, 2020. No formal decisions are recorded for this session.

• Discussion of Board Goals Community Collaborative Problem‑Solving
• Updates from Early Literacy, Social‑Emotional Learning, and Algebra I task forces
• Information presentation on the 2020‑2021 Budget
• Information presentation on Legislative Priorities
• Scheduling of next meeting for June 18, 2020

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda that included the payment of $4,844,005.35 in bills and $61,988.37 in architect/engineer payments for various district projects. The meeting also included a presentation from Polk County Supervisors regarding an annual contribution to the district.

• Approval of $4,844,005.35 in bills
• Approval of $61,988.37 in architect/engineer payments
• Approval of $190,182.82 in contractor payments
• Presentation by Polk County Supervisors
• Approval of February 4, 2020 board minutes

The Board approved a consent agenda including $4,844,005.35 in bills and various facility upgrades. The district also received a $517,000 unrestricted contribution from Prairie Meadows for students. Additionally, the Board accepted monitoring reports regarding 3rd grade reading progress.

• Approved consent agenda including $4,844,005.35 in bills
• Approved contract for Lincoln High School library and small gym classrooms
• Approved contract for Stowe Elementary School staff parking lot
• Approved contract for science room upgrades at Harding, Weeks, and North
• Approved application for Community Betterment Grants from Prairie Meadows
• Approved transition of Scavo from a comprehensive school to a program
• Accepted monitoring reports for All Students 3rd Grade Reading and Black Males Reading
• Approved February 4, 2020 meeting minutes

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

The Advisory Committee will approve the agenda and the minutes from the January 8, 2020 meeting. It will receive updates on quarterly financial results, actuarial analysis, and the status of the retirement plan, including options being explored, language to close the plan to new entrants, and an amendment on excess earnings. The meeting will end with setting the next meeting date and adjournment.

• Agenda approval
• Minutes approval from Jan 8 2020 meeting
• BTC report on previous quarterly financial results
• Gallagher update on actuarial analysis of the plan
• Ahlers updates: plan status, options, language to close to new entrants, and excess earnings amendment

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from January 8, 2020. The session primarily consisted of financial reports on portfolio performance and updates regarding plan liabilities and potential amendments.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved January 8, 2020 minutes

Superintendent Compensation Committee Meeting

The Superintendent Compensation Committee will meet to develop recommendations for the annual Superintendent compensation package for Board consideration. The meeting is a work session open to the public.

• Discussion of superintendent compensation package
• Review of compensation surveys
• Use of outside counsel for contract drafting

Work Session on Scavo

The Des Moines school board will hold a work session to discuss Scavo. No specific proposals or decisions are listed; the session is for discussion only and is open to public observation.

• Discussion of Scavo (no further details provided in agenda)

Des Moines Public Schools Foundation

The Des Moines Public Schools Foundation is meeting to approve the agenda and previous minutes. The board will discuss financial reports and receive updates from various committees regarding grants and strategic planning.

• Discussion of EOY Donors, IRS 990, and IRS 1099
• Executive Committee report on Executive Director Contract and Capital Campaign
• Development Committee report on Project S.T.A.G.E. and Turnaround Arts Friends and Supporters Night
• Giving Committee report on DMPS Science Fair Grant
• Discussion of Strategic Plan presented by Jackie Romp

DMPS Community Legislative Action Team

The DMPS Community Legislative Action Team will meet to discuss plans for the upcoming legislative session and the district's legislative priorities. The meeting is open to parents, community members, staff, and students interested in learning how to become involved.

• Discussion of plans for the upcoming legislative session
• Review of the District's legislative priorities
• Information session on how to become involved

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including millions in bills and procurement card transactions. The board also awarded several contracts for roofing and masonry repairs at district elementary schools.

• Approved bills of $5,881,861.68 and procurement card transactions of $469,758.03
• Awarded Studebaker Elementary Roofing Project to For Sure Roofing for $384,961
• Awarded Hanawalt Elementary Roofing Project to For Sure Roofing for $129,961
• Awarded Phillips Elementary Masonry Project to Bi-State Masonry for $268,348
• Adopted resolution for Prairie Meadows Youth Sports and Recreation Grant rankings

The Board approved the sale of King Elementary property to the City of Des Moines for $1.00. Members also approved renovation plans for science and FCS rooms at four schools and accepted a social emotional learning progress report.

• Approved sale of King Elementary property to City of Des Moines for $1.00 (6-0)
• Approved renovation plans for FCS and science rooms at Lincoln, Roosevelt, Hoover High Schools and Meredith Middle School (6-0)
• Approved $5,881,861.68 in bills and $469,758.03 in procurement card transactions (6-0)
• Approved roofing projects for Studebaker and Hanawalt Elementary (6-0)
• Approved masonry projects for Phillips Elementary and Central Academy Ramp (6-0)
• Approved nurse's office renovation and ADA upgrades at Harding Middle School (6-0)
• Approved restroom upgrades at Park Avenue Elementary (6-0)
• Accepted Social Emotional Learning Policy Compliance Progress Report (6-0)

Audit Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Public Schools Audit Committee will meet to approve minutes from the previous meeting and receive informational reports on IT/cyber security, risk management, internal audit (including a draft preliminary FY20 audit plan), risk assessment, business and finance, and review of committee charters. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions expected.

• Approval of minutes from Oct. 25, 2019 meeting
• Internal Audit Update with draft preliminary FY20 Audit Plan
• Risk Assessment discussion
• IT/Cyber Security Update
• Charters Review (Audit Committee and Internal Audit Charters)

The committee received updates on IT security, risk management, and internal audits. Discussion focused on a proposed $24 million gross budget reduction based on solvency ratios and unspent spending authority, which was noted as not currently achievable.

• Approved agenda
• Approved minutes from 10.25.19

Board of Directors

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors met to approve a consent agenda. This included the authorization of millions of dollars in bills and specific payments to contractors and architects for various school projects.

• Approved bills previously authorized for payment in the amount of $3,705,822.11
• Approved contractor payments totaling $779,575.08 for projects including Hoover Emergency Roof Repairs and Studebaker Addition and Renovation
• Approved architect and engineer payments totaling $169,756.13 for projects including East Auditorium Renovation and Pleasant Hill Addition
• Approved minutes from the January 7, 2020 meeting

The Board approved several facility projects, including a pottery studio at Central Academy and fuel tank replacements. It also approved a consent agenda containing $3,705,822.11 in bills and various contracts. Additionally, the board accepted a baseline monitoring report regarding Algebra I performance for Black male students.

• Approved consent agenda including $3,705,822.11 in bills (7-0)
• Approved Pottery Studio project at Central Academy (7-0)
• Approved fuel storage tank replacement at Prospect Support Facility (7-0)
• Approved baseline monitoring report for Algebra Part I - Black Male Students (7-0)
• Approved agenda (6-1)
• Approved minutes from January 7, 2020 (7-0)
• Awarded contract for B8440 East High School Auditorium Upgrade (via consent)
• Approved resolution for public hearing on sale of property at King Elementary (via consent)

Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session to discuss facilities. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for board discussion and public observation only.

• Facilities discussion (no specific projects or proposals listed)

DMPS Community Legislative Action Team - CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER

This meeting of the Des Moines Independent Community School District's Community Legislative Action Team was cancelled due to weather. No decisions or discussions took place. The meeting was originally scheduled to discuss plans for the upcoming legislative session, the district's legislative priorities, and how to become involved.

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS)

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee will convene to approve minutes from a prior meeting and discuss financial and business transactions reports. The session is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. on January 8, 2020, at 2100 Fleur Drive.

• Approval of minutes from November 20, 2019
• Review of Business Transactions Committee (BTC) reports
• Review of financial reports
• Discussion of next meeting date

The committee discussed three proposed options for the future of the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System, including transferring members to IPERS, terminating the plan with early retirement incentives, or increasing district contributions. No final decision was made on these options; the committee determined that actual cost figures are needed before a work session with the School Board.

• Approved agenda as amended
• Approved minutes from November 20, 2019

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a $3.36 million contract to build a gymnasium at Jefferson Elementary and authorized the purchase of a $109,300 chiller unit for Walnut Street. The board also renewed a managed print service contract and approved a computer leasing schedule.

• Approval of $3,356,000 contract for Jefferson Elementary School Addition
• Approval of $109,300 purchase for Walnut Street Chiller Upgrade
• Approval of Managed Print Services renewal with Marco
• Approval of Computer Leasing Schedule 20 for $4,779,900
• Approval of bills totaling $9,925,577.20

Work Session on Board Development

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session on January 5, 2020, to discuss board goals and Policy Governance with Nextbd.

• Work session on Board Development
• Policy Governance discussion
• Board goals discussion with Nextbd

Work Session on Board Development

The Des Moines school board is holding a work session focused on board development, specifically discussing policy governance with Nextbd. No votes or public hearings are scheduled; this is a discussion-only session.

• Discussion on policy governance and board goals with Nextbd