Des Moines Independent Community School District public meetings in 2021

Guardrails - Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session to discuss guardrails. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, December 28, 2021, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and will be conducted virtually via Teams.

• Work session on guardrails
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• Board of Directors meeting

Board of Directors - Board Development

The Board of Directors is meeting for board development and member orientation. This is a special meeting focused on procedural discussion.

• Board Member Orientation

Audit Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Audit Committee will meet virtually to review financial statements, discuss internal audit updates, and review a 2021/2022 risk assessment.

• Review FY21 Financial Statements
• Internal Audit Update
• Business Update
• 2021/2022 Risk Assessment
• Approval of Agenda

Board of Directors New Member Orientation

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors is holding a special meeting to provide orientation for new members. The session is scheduled for Tuesday, December 14, 2021, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Multi-Purpose Room located at 1800 Grand.

• Board of Directors New Member Orientation
• Meeting: Dec 14, 2021
• Location: 1800 Grand, Multi-Purpose Room
• Time: 5:30-7:30
• Type: Discussion, Procedural

Work Session on Student Outcome Focused Governance

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session on Student Outcome Focused Governance. The meeting is scheduled for Saturday, December 11, 2021, from 9:00am to 5:00pm at 2100 Fleur Drive.

• Work session on Student Outcome Focused Governance
• Board of Directors meeting
• Discussion on Policy Governance

Work Session on Student Outcome Focused Governance

The Des Moines Independent Community School District board of directors will hold a work session on Student Outcome Focused Governance (SOFG). The agenda lists a single discussion item with no specific proposals or votes scheduled. This is a procedural session, not a regular business meeting.

• Discussion of Student Outcome Focused Governance (SOFG)

Board of Directors

The board approved the consent agenda, which includes $7,950,916.38 in previously authorized bills. It also approved a contract amendment with Heartland AEA 11 for special education services, a new student travel policy, a revised board report schedule, and personnel recommendations. Additionally, the board held public hearings and approved plans for HVAC upgrades at Brody, Goodrell, and Stowe schools and flooring renovations at Weeks Middle and Wright Elementary.

• Approval of consent items totaling $7,950,916.38
• Special Education contract amendment with Heartland AEA 11
• Adoption of the Student Travel Policy
• HVAC upgrade plans for Brody Middle, Goodrell Middle, and Stowe Elementary
• Flooring renovation plans for Weeks Middle and Wright Elementary

The Board approved plans for HVAC, flooring, and classroom upgrades across several schools. It also authorized three requests to the School Budget Review Committee for modified allowable growth totaling over $7 million. Additionally, the board approved $7,950,916.38 in previously authorized bills.

• Approved $7,950,916.38 in previously authorized bills (7-0)
• Approved HVAC upgrades for Brody, Goodrell, and Stowe (7-0)
• Approved flooring renovations for Weeks and Wright (7-0)
• Approved classroom casework and grease interceptor upgrades at McKinley (7-0)
• Approved science room upgrades at Lincoln High School (7-0)
• Approved $3,316,788.80 SBRC request for increased open enrollment (7-0)
• Approved $3,704,641.45 SBRC request for ELL students beyond five years (7-0)
• Approved $2,079.98 SBRC request for River Hills Consortium admin costs (7-0)

Board of Directors New Member Orientation

This is a procedural special meeting for new board member orientation. The board officers will provide beginning orientation with other members participating if available. No substantive decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

Board of Directors New Member Orientation

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors convened a special meeting on November 23, 2021 for new member orientation. Board officers presented introductory information, and other board members were invited to participate. The session was scheduled from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. in the 1800 Grand Multi‑Purpose Room.

• Board orientation session for new members (5:30‑7:30 p.m., 1800 Grand Multi‑Purpose Room)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including the payment of $5.6 million in bills and the final acceptance of construction projects. The board also adopted a revised schedule for board reports and accepted monitoring reports on financial conditions and science curriculum.

• Approval of $5,164,850.07 in bills and $408,812.17 in procurement card transactions
• Final acceptance of B8591 Restroom Upgrade project ($608,193.00)
• Final acceptance of B8525 Hillis Roof project ($327,500.00)
• Adoption of revised Board Report Schedule for FY 22
• Acceptance of Monitoring Report: Executive Constraint 2.0

The Board approved several facility renovation plans and a city easement agreement. The Board also canvassed regular election results, administered oaths to new directors, and elected Dwana Bradley as chair and Teree Caldwell-Johnson as vice-chair.

• Approved consent items including $5,164,850.07 in bills and $408,812.17 in procurement card transactions
• Approved plans for North High Gym Fitness Area Renovations
• Approved plans for Merrill, McCombs, Goodrell, and CNC exterior restorations
• Approved permanent and temporary easements for the City of Des Moines at Lincoln High School
• Canvassed election results declaring Jackie Norris, Maria Alozo-Diaz, Kim Martorano, Jenna Knox, and Teree Caldwell-Johnson as directors
• Elected Dwana Bradley as board chair
• Elected Teree Caldwell-Johnson as board vice-chair
• Adopted previous board governance policies, regulations, and rules

Board of Directors

The Des Moines Independent Community School District board will approve a consent agenda that includes $4,054,380.50 in previously authorized payments. It will give final acceptance to the Prospect Support Center exterior restoration and award contracts for the Lincoln Roundhouse chiller replacement ($403,069) and the Smouse Opportunity School exterior restoration ($923,000). The board will also adopt the 3rd Grade Reading Part 1 report and receive several monitoring reports.

• Approve consent items totaling $4,054,380.50
• Final acceptance of B8570 Prospect Support Center Exterior Restoration ($210,500 contract, $10,525 balance)
• Award B8712 Lincoln Roundhouse Chiller Replacement to Central Iowa Mechanical for $403,069
• Award B8717 Smouse Exterior Restoration to Henkel Construction for $923,000
• Adopt 3rd Grade Reading – Part 1 report (no fiscal impact)

The Board approved a consent agenda including $4,054,380.50 in bills and several facility awards. Members also approved plans for restroom upgrades at eight locations and a request for a budget hearing regarding asbestos abatement funding.

• Approved consent agenda including $4,054,380.50 in bills (7-0)
• Approved 3rd Grade Reading – Part 1 report as evidence for policy 4.1 (7-0)
• Approved plans for restroom upgrades at Hanawalt, Hoover, Hubbell, Lovejoy, North High, Oak Park, Pleasant Hill and Woodlawn (7-0)
• Approved request for SBRC hearing for $191,928.42 modified supplemental amount for asbestos abatement projects (7-0)
• Approved appointment of Paying Agent and terms for School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2021 (7-0)
• Awarded B8712 Lincoln Roundhouse Chiller Replacement (via consent agenda)
• Awarded B8717 Smouse Exterior Restoration (via consent agenda)

Special Board Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board approved the sale of approximately $80,700,000 in bonds to fund infrastructure projects. The board also authorized the redemption of previous bond series.

• Approved $80,700,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2021
• Authorized redemption of Series 2012, 2013, and 2016 bonds
• Passed agenda with a 6-0 vote
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• Public hearing held on October 5, 2021

The board approved the Superintendent's recommendation regarding the sale and redemption of school infrastructure sales, services and use tax revenue refunding bonds. The action covers Series 2012, 2013, and 2016 bonds.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved $80,700,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series 2021 (6-0)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Annual Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) will hold its annual meeting on October 20, 2021, via a virtual Teams platform. The agenda includes a review of the annual report, financials, and a discussion with BTC Capital Management. The meeting will conclude with a procedural adjournment.

• Annual Report review
• Financials presentation
• Discussion with BTC Capital Management
• Next meeting date announcement
• Adjournment of the meeting

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including $4.36 million in bills and textbook purchases for nonpublic schools. The board also approved a resolution to transfer Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds to the Child Care Fund.

• Approval of $3,967,792.10 in bills and $394,959.66 in procurement card transactions
• Approval of $5,564.88 for textbooks at St. Theresa's Catholic School and Mt. Olive Lutheran School
• Approval to transfer ESSER funds to the Child Care Fund
• Acceptance of a report on Black male third grade reading progress
• Approval of financial monitoring reports for FY 2021 Q4 and FY 2022

The Board approved a request for $4,399,445.81 in modified allowable growth to address the FY 2021 special education deficit. The Board also approved several personnel terminations and a large consent agenda including nearly $4.4M in payments.

• Approved $4,399,445.81 request for Special Education Deficit FY 2021 (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $3,967,792.10 in bills and $394,959.66 in procurement card transactions (6-0)
• Accepted Board Policy 4.1.1 Black Males 3rd Grade Reading - Part 1 report (5-1)
• Approved termination of continuing teaching contract for D.H. (6-0)
• Approved termination of continuing teaching contract for E.S. (6-0)
• Approved termination of continuing teaching contract for K.VB. (6-0)
• Approved transfer of ESSER funds to Child Care and Nutrition funds (6-0)
• Approved Student Travel and Competency Based Education policies (6-0)

School Board Candidate Workshop

The Des Moines Independent Community School District is conducting a candidate workshop. The session consists of discussions regarding board operational documents and goal-setting frameworks.

• Discussion of SOFG Manual
• Discussion of Inputs, Outputs, Outcomes
• Discussion of SMART Goal MR
• Discussion of Progress Monitoring Document
• Discussion of Guardrails

Closed Session

The Board of Directors is meeting in a closed session not open to the public. The body will discuss strategy with counsel regarding matters in litigation or where litigation is imminent.

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

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved the consent agenda, which included final payments for construction projects and a contract for Title 1 services. The board also approved minutes from previous meetings.

• Approval of $12,184,976.90 in bills
• Final acceptance of Brody Chiller Replacement project ($305,400)
• Final acceptance of Central Academy Ramp Restoration ($397,800)
• Renewal of FACTS Education Solutions Title 1 contract ($480,400)
• Approval of Community and Family Support Program ($400,000)

The Board approved the issuance of approximately $80.7 million in school infrastructure refunding bonds and authorized HVAC upgrades for Callanan Middle, Greenwood Elementary, and Hubbell Elementary. Additionally, the Board approved over $12 million in consent agenda payments and voted to terminate a continuing teaching contract.

• Approved approximately $80.7M School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds (7-0)
• Approved HVAC upgrades for Callanan Middle, Greenwood Elementary, and Hubbell Elementary (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $12,184,976.90 in payments (6-1)
• Approved deposit of moneys from property sale into the General Fund (7-0)
• Approved termination of a continuing teaching contract (7-0)
• Approved minutes from August 17, August 26, September 9, and September 21 meetings

School Board Candidate Workshop

The Des Moines school board holds a candidate workshop to discuss governance documents, including the SOFG Manual, inputs/outputs/outcomes, SMART goals, progress monitoring, and guardrails. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the session is for candidate orientation and discussion.

• Discussion of SOFG Manual (governance framework)
• Discussion of Inputs, Outputs, Outcomes
• Discussion of SMART Goal MR
• Discussion of Progress Monitoring Document
• Discussion of Guardrails (policy limits)

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including significant payments and software contracts. The board also held a public hearing regarding a City of Des Moines easement agreement at South Union Elementary.

• Approved bills totaling $1,911,238.57 and procurement card transactions of $421,328.77
• Approved $109,250 contract with Panorama Education for staff, student, and family surveys
• Approved FY 2021-2022 Des Moines Teachers Retirement System interest rate of 5.22%
• Approved student practicum contracts for Creighton, Drake University, Eastern Washington University, and Northern Arizona University
• Public hearing and recommended approval of permanent and temporary easements for the City of Des Moines at South Union Elementary

The Board approved the consent agenda, which included the payment of previously authorized bills and procurement card transactions. Other approved items included the agenda and minutes from the September 14, 2021 meeting.

• Approved bills for payment in the amount of $1,911,238.57
• Approved procurement card transactions in the amount of $421,328.77
• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved minutes from September 14, 2021 board meeting

Rescheduled Board of Directors (Original meeting date 9.7.21)

The Des Moines school board held a rescheduled regular meeting and voted on a consent agenda that included approval of $23,454,507.24 in bills and $405,253.80 in procurement card transactions. The board also approved a FY2022 legal services agreement with Ahlers & Cooney, P.C. for an estimated $300,000, final acceptance of a solar project at Jefferson (contract amount $265,800), a temporary construction easement for Indianola Avenue reconstruction, and a 28E agreement allowing Murray CSD students to attend Central Campus. The meeting was closed to the public but viewable on YouTube, and included procedural items such as approval of minutes from August 3, 2021.

• Approval of bills and procurement card transactions totaling $23,859,761.04
• Final acceptance of Solar Project at Jefferson (Simpleray, contract $265,800)
• FY2022 legal services with Ahlers & Cooney, P.C., estimated $300,000
• Granting temporary construction easement (1,802 sq ft) to City of Des Moines for Indianola Ave reconstruction
• Approval of 28E agreement between DMPS and Murray CSD for Central Campus attendance

The Board approved a consent agenda including over $23.8 million in payments and various contracts. It also passed a resolution to fix a hearing date for the issuance of approximately $80.7 million in school infrastructure refunding bonds.

• Approved consent items including $23,454,507.24 in authorized bills and $405,253.80 in procurement card transactions
• Approved resolution to fix hearing date for approximately $80,700,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds
• Approved agenda
• Approved August 3, 2021 meeting minutes

Special Board Meeting

The Des Moines School Board approved a motion to waive conflicts of interest and authorize joint representation with the law firm Ahlers & Cooney. The meeting was called to order and adjourned within minutes.

• Approval of agenda
• Waiver of conflict of interest with Ahlers & Cooney
• Meeting adjourned at 5:04pm

The Board of Directors met for a special session to address a personnel recommendation. The board approved a request for joint representation and a waiver of conflict of interest with the firm Ahlers & Cooney.

• Approved agenda (6-0)
• Approved joint representation and waiver of conflict of interest with Ahlers & Cooney (6-0)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Advisory Committee will meet virtually to discuss the BTC Capital 2Q Investment Report, a 457/employer contribution proposal, and excess earnings. No formal votes are scheduled; all substantive items are listed as discussion topics.

• BTC Capital 2Q Investment Report (discussion)
• 457 / Employer Contribution Proposal (discussion)
• Excess Earnings (discussion)
• Next meeting date (information)

Closed Session

The Board of Directors will meet in a closed session via Microsoft Teams. The discussion involves joint representation and a waiver of conflict of interest with Ahlers & Cooney.

• Discussion and/or approval of joint representation and waiver of conflict of interest with Ahlers & Cooney

Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors held a special meeting to review and act on staffing matters. The board voted to approve a list of personnel recommendations presented by the Superintendent.

• Approval of personnel recommendations

The Board of Directors met for a special session to review staffing matters. The board approved the list of personnel recommendations as presented by the superintendent.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (4-0)

DMPS Town Hall on School & COVID

Superintendent Ahart and district leaders will discuss how the district is preparing for the upcoming school year during the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting is a discussion-based town hall held virtually via Microsoft Teams.

• Discussion on school year preparation and COVID-19 response

Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board held a special meeting on August 17, 2021. The board approved the meeting agenda and adopted the superintendent’s list of personnel recommendations. The meeting also provided a public forum where community members could sign up to speak. The session was conducted virtually via Teams and adjourned shortly after.

• Approval of meeting agenda (motion passed)
• Adoption of superintendent’s personnel recommendations (motion passed)
• Public forum sign‑up procedures for community comments
• Roll call of board members
• Adjournment of the special meeting

The Board of Directors met for a special session to review staffing changes. The board approved the list of personnel recommendations as presented by the superintendent.

• Approved personnel recommendations (6-0)

Pre-Boarding: Workshop for 2021 School Board Candidates

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board held a pre‑boarding workshop on August 7, 2021 for individuals planning to run for the 2021 school board. The session, held in the Central Campus Multi‑Purpose Room at 1800 Grand Ave, provided free information on board duties, budget approval, and student achievement. Attendees could register via email to [email protected] or the district website. Video recordings of the morning and afternoon sessions were made available online.

• Pre‑Boarding Workshop for 2021 School Board Candidates (discussion session, 9 am‑2 pm)
• Key Measures of School Financial Health 2021‑22.docx (43 KB attachment)
• Iowa K‑12 Public School Finance 6.15.2021.pptx (5,095 KB attachment)
• Board Financial Roles and Responsibilities August 2021.pptx (3,730 KB attachment)
• Finance Diagram Pipes full size.pdf (937 KB attachment)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss recommendations for employer contribution increases. The committee will also discuss the Gallagher Report and the process for getting recommendations to the school board.

• Update on Employer Contribution Increase Recommendation
• Discussion on the process for bringing decision makers to DMTRS work
• Discussion of the Gallagher Report

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including $11.8 million in bills, final acceptance of the Community Stadium excavation package, and a resolution to hold a public hearing for a City of Des Moines easement at South Union Elementary.

• Approval of $11.8M in bills and procurement card transactions
• Final acceptance of Community Stadium excavation package ($648,448.51)
• Resolution to hold public hearing for South Union Elementary easement
• Award of Biometric Screening renewal contract ($180,000)
• Award of Preconstruction Management Services contract ($1,000,000)

The Board approved a consent agenda including over $11 million in bills and various service contracts. It also passed resolutions to hold public hearings regarding the issuance of approximately $80.7 million in refunding bonds and the deposit of property sale funds into the General Fund.

• Approved consent agenda including $11,003,678.01 in bills and $818,033.97 in procurement card transactions
• Approved Resolution to hold public hearing for City of Des Moines Easement Agreement at South Union Elementary
• Approved Biometric Screening Renewal (RFP8195-2)
• Approved Preconstruction Management Services for Community Stadium @ Drake University (RFP8705)
• Approved renewal of Floor Finishing Services (Q8517)
• Approved Edgenuity, Inc. contract
• Approved Resolution to fix hearing date for approximately $80,700,000 School Infrastructure Sales, Services and Use Tax Revenue Refunding Bonds
• Approved Resolution to fix hearing date for the proposed deposit of moneys from property sale into the General Fund

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System committee will discuss an employer contribution increase recommendation and review investment performance reports. The meeting also covers the Gallagher report and end-of-fiscal-year updates.

• Discussion on employer contribution increase recommendation
• Review of investment performance and bond market outlook
• Analysis of Gallagher report trends and opportunities
• End-of-fiscal-year updates and monthly retirement projections
• Discussion on including decision makers in advisory work

Guardrails - Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a virtual work session on July 21, 2021, to discuss the topic of 'Guardrails'.

• Work session on 'Guardrails' topic
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• Scheduled for 7:00 - 8:30pm

The Board conducted a work session from 5:35pm to 7:52pm. The session was used to discuss guardrails; no formal decisions were recorded.

Summer 2021 SEAC (Stakeholder Engagement Advisory Committee) Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District's Stakeholder Engagement Advisory Committee will meet virtually to review ESSER funds and discuss unfinished learning, facilities, technology, and social-emotional learning.

• Review of ESSER Funds Overview
• Break-out sessions on unfinished learning
• Break-out sessions on facilities
• Break-out sessions on technology
• Break-out sessions on social-emotional learning/mental health services

Board of Directors

The Des Moines school board approved a consent agenda including $14,062,972.64 in bills and $46,290.36 in architect payments. The board also accepted a final monitoring report on a Black Male Algebra goal.

• Approval of $14,062,972.64 in bills
• Approval of $46,290.36 in architect payments
• Acceptance of Black Male Algebra Monitoring Report
• Approval of $4,816,589.48 in contractor payments
• Approval of HVAC upgrades at Central Campus and Community Stadium

Guardrails - Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors held a work session to discuss guardrails, with no decisions expected. The agenda contained only this single discussion item.

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

The board conducted a work session from 4:05pm to 5:28pm. The session was used to discuss guardrails; no formal decisions were recorded.

Board of Directors

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board approved the meeting agenda and minutes, and accepted two reading monitoring reports for 2020‑21. It then approved consent items, authorizing $15,985,363.33 in previously certified bills, $85,373.73 in architect/engineer payments, and $1,081,884.41 in contractor and supplier payments.

• Approval of the meeting agenda
• Acceptance of the 3rd Grade Reading Monitoring Report
• Acceptance of the Black Male 3rd Grade Reading Monitoring Report
• Consent items payment of $15,985,363.33 approved
• Architect payments of $85,373.73 for projects such as East Auditorium Renovation and Community Stadium

The Board approved a budget amendment for FY 2021 and a consent agenda including $15,985,363.33 in authorized payments. The Board also accepted reading monitoring reports for 3rd grade and Black male students to demonstrate policy compliance.

• Approved FY 2021 budget amendment (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $15,985,363.33 in payments (6-0)
• Accepted 3rd Grade Reading Monitoring Report (6-0)
• Accepted Black Male 3rd Grade Reading Monitoring Report (6-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved June 1, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Committee is meeting to discuss the first quarter investment report. The committee will also review potential ways to improve pension outcomes for plan members based on a report from an actuary.

• Q1 Investment Report review by Allen Goody and Jon Augustine from BTC
• Discussion of pension outcome improvement levers with actuary Brad Becker

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including $2.58 million in bills and a contract for 17 new school buses. The board also accepted a presentation on social-emotional learning compliance.

• Approved $2,582,337.31 in bills
• Authorized $24,814.69 in architect payments
• Awarded $1,999,850 contract for 17 new school buses
• Accepted presentation on social-emotional learning compliance
• Approved minutes from May 18, 2021

The Board approved a consent agenda including $2,582,337.31 in authorized payments and various contracts. Members also accepted a presentation on Management Limitation 2.10 regarding social and emotional learning (SEL) as evidence of compliance.

• Approved Management Limitation 2.10 SEL compliance presentation (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $2,582,337.31 in payments (6-0)
• Approved architect payment (via consent agenda)
• Approved RFP8651 for new student school buses FY22 (via consent agenda)
• Rejected all bids for B8656 and B8657 for DMPS Community Stadium at Drake University (via consent agenda)
• Approved student practicum and teaching contract (via consent agenda)
• Approved design service awards for projects at various schools (via consent agenda)
• Approved board room audio visual upgrade (via consent agenda)

Board of Directors - Special Meeting

The Des Moines School Board accepted the resignation of a non-probationary teacher during a special meeting held virtually on May 21, 2021. The board voted unanimously to approve the superintendent's recommendation.

• Acceptance of resignation for a non-probationary teacher
• Motion by Teree Caldwell-Johnson, second by Kelli Soyer
• Meeting held virtually via Teams

The Board of Directors met for a special meeting to act on a personnel recommendation. The board voted to accept the resignation of a non-probationary teacher.

• Accepted resignation of non-probationary teacher (7-0)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved the consent agenda, which included bills totaling $6,721,755.69 and contractor payments of $515,218.59. The board also approved the minutes from the May 4 and May 13 meetings.

• Approval of $6,241,533.02 in bills and $480,222.67 in procurement card transactions
• Approval of $515,218.59 in contractor payments
• Approval of May 4, 2021 Board meeting minutes
• Approval of May 13, 2021 Special meeting minutes
• Final Acceptance of Various Projects

The Board approved a consent agenda including $6,241,533.02 in authorized bills and $480,222.67 in procurement card transactions. Several contracts, personnel recommendations, and facility upgrades were also approved via the consent agenda.

• Approved $6,241,533.02 in authorized bills
• Approved $480,222.67 in procurement card transactions
• Approved contract for B8629 Central Academy Ramp Restoration
• Approved design service for restroom upgrades at various schools
• Approved revised comprehensive agreement between DMPS and AFSCME
• Approved amendment to 28E Agreement with Drake University
• Approved personnel recommendations
• Approved purchase of textbooks for nonpublic schools

Student Outcome Focused Governance - Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a virtual work session to discuss Student Outcome Focused Governance. The meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 17, 2021, at 6:00pm.

• Student Outcome Focused Governance discussion
• Virtually via Teams meeting format
• Board of Directors meeting

Board of Directors Special Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors approved a two-year contract for the Superintendent through June 30, 2023, with no change in compensation or benefits.

• Superintendent contract approved through June 30, 2023
• Motion passed with 4 ayes and 3 nays
• Contract details: 2-year term, no change in compensation or benefits

The Board of Directors approved a two-year contract for the Superintendent extending through June 30, 2023. The agreement includes no changes to compensation or benefits.

• Approved 2-year Superintendent contract through June 30, 2023 with no change in compensation or benefits (4-3)

Closed Session - Superintendent Contract

The Des Moines board is meeting in closed session to discuss the superintendent's contract under Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i). After the closed session, they will hold an open session only to adjourn. No public access during the closed portion.

• Closed session to evaluate superintendent's performance and contract

Board of Directors

The Des Moines Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including $2.45 million in bills, a $288,207 contract for district-wide exterior lighting, and a $1.34 million dairy supply contract. The meeting also approved the April 20, 2021 board minutes.

• Approval of $2,454,305.84 in bills
• Contract for district-wide exterior lighting to Van Maanen Electric ($288,207)
• Dairy items contract for school meal program to Hiland Dairy ($1,339,457.50)
• Approval of April 20, 2021 board minutes
• Approval of Employee Benefits FY 2022 rates

The Board approved the sale of the administrative building at 2323 Grand Ave to 2015 Grand, L.L.C. for $2,650,000.00. Members also approved plans to relocate the dental and medical lab from Central Campus to Kurtz.

• Approved sale of 2323 Grand Ave to 2015 Grand, L.L.C. for $2,650,000.00
• Approved plans for relocation of dental/medical lab from Central Campus to Kurtz
• Approved consent agenda including $2,454,305.84 in authorized payments
• Approved FY 2021-2022 dairy items for School Meal Program
• Approved contract for district-wide exterior lighting
• Approved FY 2022 employee benefits and substitute rates
• Approved Mini-Pitch donation and construction agreement at Meredith Middle School
• Approved MOU between DMPS and DMEA for PD Day before the first day of school

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Committee will discuss an 11% increase to the school board and explore ways to improve member access to account information. The meeting will also cover establishing a targeted interest rate of return.

• Discussion of 11% increase to school board
• Review of actuary reports
• Improving member access to account information
• Discussion of targeted interest rate of return

Work Session - Board 360 Evaluation Presentation

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session to discuss the Board 360 evaluation process with AJ Crabill. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 27, 2021, at 5:00 p.m. via a virtual Teams meeting.

• Work session on Board 360 evaluation process
• Presentation by AJ Crabill
• Virtual Teams meeting
• Public comment available via online form or phone

Board of Directors

The Des Moines school board held a public forum and regular meeting, approving the consent agenda which included bills of $3,094,807.95 and procurement card transactions of $421,371.13. The board also authorized architect payments of $44,801.39 and contractor payments of $883,358.99 for various school projects.

• Approved consent agenda with $3,094,807.95 in bills and $421,371.13 in procurement card transactions
• Authorized architect payments totaling $44,801.39 for projects at Central Campus, East Auditorium, Community Stadium, and North Science Renovation
• Authorized contractor payments totaling $883,358.99 for HVAC upgrades at Brubaker, Hoyt, and Walnut Street, restroom upgrades at Jackson, Morris, Weeks, and Willard, and other projects
• Approved meeting minutes from April 6, 2021
• Public forum held for comments not on the agenda

The Board approved $3,094,807.95 in authorized bills and $421,371.13 in procurement card transactions. Members also approved plans for a community stadium at Drake University and lighting upgrades at five schools. A recommendation to terminate an employee contract was approved.

• Approved $3,094,807.95 in authorized bills (7-0)
• Approved $421,371.13 in procurement card transactions (7-0)
• Approved plans for Community Stadium at Drake University (7-0)
• Approved parking lot lighting upgrades at East, Hoover, Lincoln, Mitchell, and Weeks schools (7-0)
• Approved recommendation to terminate employee contract (7-0)
• Approved contract for North Science Room Renovations (7-0)
• Approved contract for Hoover High School locker room renovations (7-0)
• Approved contract for Moulton Elementary School walk-in cooler/freezer (7-0)

DMPS CLAT - Coffee with Legislators

The DMPS CLAT meeting includes the announcement of the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities. The agenda also includes a scheduled question and answer session.

• Announcement of the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities
• Question and Answer session

Board of Directors

The Des Moines school board approved a consent agenda including $17.9 million in bills and $375k in procurement card transactions. The board also approved payments to contractors and renewed two service contracts for mowing and field maintenance.

• Approval of $17,549,374.04 in bills and $375,307.02 in procurement card transactions
• Contractor payments totaling $150,916.05
• Renewal of RFP8464 Mowing and Trimming Services with Reliable Property Services for $415,886.52
• Renewal of RFP8471 Athletic Field Mowing and Game Line Painting Services with Iowa Sports Turf for $211,648.00

The Board of Directors adopted the proposed FY 2022 budget and approved an amendment to the FY 2021 budget. Other key actions included approving the sale of a portion of the Fremont Street right-of-way and authorizing various school facility upgrades.

• Adopted FY 2022 budget (6-0)
• Approved FY 2021 budget amendment (6-0)
• Approved sale of vacated Fremont Street ROW to University Group, LLC for $1.00 (6-0)
• Approved North High School science room renovation plans (6-0)
• Approved $17,549,374.04 in previously authorized bills and $375,307.02 in procurement card transactions (6-0)
• Approved consent items including HVAC/flooring upgrades at Garton and Hanawalt Elementary and Central Nutrition Center (6-0)
• Appointed Andrew Broesder as secondary Board Treasurer and Board Secretary (6-0)
• Accepted 3rd Grade Reading - Part 2 (Black Males) report (6-0)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee will hold a virtual meeting to review contributions and miscellaneous items. The agenda lists updates on retirement system matters and sets the next meeting date.

• Review of retirement system contributions
• Discussion of miscellaneous items
• Next meeting date to be set

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board will meet in open session to vote on a motion to enter closed session under Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i) to evaluate the competency of an individual employee who has requested the closed session. No other business is scheduled; the board will adjourn after the closed session.

• Motion to go into closed session to evaluate an individual employee's competency per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i)

The Board met in a closed session to review the performance evaluation of the Superintendent. No public votes on the evaluation results were recorded.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for employee competency evaluation (7-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (7-0)

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee is meeting to discuss retirement system updates. The agenda includes reviews of investment performance, guaranteed earnings, and the legalities of changing employer or employee contributions.

• BTC - Investment Performance Report 4Q
• Discussion of Guaranteed Earnings
• Discussion of legalities regarding increasing employer and/or employee contributions

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will meet virtually to discuss a specific employee evaluation in closed session. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 23, 2021, at 5:00 p.m.

• Closed session for employee evaluation
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• No public access during closed session

The Board met in a closed session to evaluate the competency of the Superintendent. No further actions or decisions were recorded in the open session before adjournment.

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

Closed Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will meet in closed session to evaluate an employee's competency, as permitted by Iowa law to protect the individual's reputation. The meeting will be held virtually via Teams on March 18, 2021.

• Closed session to evaluate employee competency
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• No public access during closed session

The Board met in a closed session to evaluate the competency of the Superintendent. No public votes or policy decisions were recorded during the session.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for employee evaluation (6-0)
• Approved motion to return to open session (7-0)

DMPS CLAT - Coffee with Legislators

The Des Moines Independent Community School District's CLAT (Coffee with Legislators) is a discussion session. The board will announce the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities and then hold a Q&A period. No formal decisions are being made at this meeting.

• Announcement of the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities
• Time for questions and answers with legislators

Superintendent Compensation Committee Meeting

The Superintendent Compensation Committee will meet to develop recommendations for the annual superintendent compensation package for the Board's consideration. The meeting is scheduled for March 10, 2021, and will be held virtually via Teams.

• Superintendent compensation package discussion
• Board Chair and three members to attend
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• Purpose: develop recommendations for Board consideration

Closed Session - CANCELLED - Not needed

The Des Moines Independent Community School District cancelled its scheduled closed session on March 9, 2021. The meeting was originally intended to evaluate an employee's competency.

• Cancelled closed session for employee evaluation
• Meeting location: 2100 Fleur Drive, Conf Room B
• Contact: Erin Jenkins at 779-0499

Closed Session

The board will vote to enter closed session under Iowa Code to evaluate an individual employee's performance at the employee's request. No public access during the closed session. Afterward, the board will reconvene in open session to adjourn.

• Motion to enter closed session per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) for employee performance evaluation

Superintendent Compensation Committee Meeting

This is a discussion meeting of the Superintendent Compensation Committee. The committee's purpose is to develop recommendations for the annual Superintendent compensation package for Board consideration. The committee has authority to incur costs for compensation surveys and outside counsel to draft the contract. No specific proposals or dollar amounts are mentioned in this agenda.

• Purpose: develop annual Superintendent compensation recommendations
• Authority to hire compensation survey firms and outside counsel
• Committee composition: Board Chair plus three Board Members
• Meeting held virtually on March 5, 2021

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board approved a consent agenda including $4.38 million in bills, $55,489 in architect payments, and $216,048 in contractor payments. The board also approved final acceptance for the Moore Elementary re-roofing project and awarded a $270,500 contract for a solar panel system at Jefferson.

• Approval of $4,379,978 in bills
• Architect payments of $55,488.82
• Contractor payments of $216,048.05
• Final acceptance of Moore Elementary re-roofing project
• Award of $270,500 contract for Jefferson solar project

The Board approved a consent agenda including $4,379,978.00 in authorized payments and various facility and technology contracts. The Board also accepted a 3rd Grade Reading monitoring report for policy compliance. A work session was held to review the FY22 budget.

• Approved consent agenda including $4,379,978.00 in payments (6-0)
• Approved contract for B8566 Solar Project - Jefferson (6-0)
• Approved student computer refresh B8636 (6-0)
• Approved replacement of staff devices with Microsoft Surfaces (6-0)
• Approved HVAC upgrades for Central Campus Auditorium, Central Academy, Hillis and Morris Elementary Schools (6-0)
• Approved restroom updates for Perkins, Phillips, Windsor, and Weeks (6-0)
• Rejected all bids for the DMPS Community Stadium at Drake University (6-0)
• Accepted 3rd Grade Reading Monitoring Report (5-0, 1 abstain)

Board Governance & Monitoring Report - Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors will hold a work session to discuss Board Governance and Monitoring Reports. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 23, 2021, at 6:00pm in Conf Room B at 2100 Fleur Drive.

• Work session on Board Governance and Monitoring Reports
• Meeting location: 2100 Fleur Drive, Conf Room B
• Meeting date: Tuesday, February 23, 2021
• Contact: Erin Jenkins at 779-0499 for information
• Accessibility: Call 242-7713 for sign or language interpreters

The Board met for a work session to discuss a monitoring report regarding 3rd grade reading. No formal decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

Closed Session

The Board of Directors will meet in a closed session to evaluate the competency of an individual employee. Following this discussion, the board will reconvene in open session to adjourn.

• Closed session to evaluate individual employee performance per Iowa Code section 21.5(1)(i)

The Board of Directors met in a closed session to evaluate the competency of an individual employee. The session was conducted per Iowa Code 21.5(1)(i) to protect the individual's reputation at their request.

• Approved move into closed session (7-0)
• Approved move into open session (7-0)

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board held a public forum and regular meeting on February 16, 2021. They approved the meeting agenda and minutes from February 2. The board then voted unanimously to approve the consent agenda, which included bills of $4,140,038.37, procurement card transactions of $239,112.55, architect payments of $153,932.99, and contractor payments of $580,738.90 for various school construction projects.

• Approved $4,140,038.37 in previously authorized bills and $239,112.55 in procurement card transactions
• Architect payments: East Auditorium Renovation ($5,104.80), Community Stadium ($145,588.19), Jefferson Addition ($3,240.00) — total $153,932.99
• Contractor payments: Walnut Street Chiller Replacement ($52,427.79), Callanan Auditorium Upgrade ($34,748.49), Harding Exterior ($117,769.60), East HS Auditorium ($183,747.34), DMPS Community Stadium ($43,193.33), Hoover Family & Consumer Science ($9,180.80), Jefferson Addition ($139,671.55) — total $580,738.90

The Board approved several facility projects, including ADA upgrades at Roosevelt High School and a new drop-off lane at Capitol View Elementary. Members also approved a consent agenda covering various payments and contracts. The Board discussed the discontinuation of the School Resource Officer (SRO) program but took no formal vote on the plan.

• Approved $4,140,038.37 in authorized bills and $239,112.55 in procurement card transactions
• Approved ADA upgrades to the Roosevelt High School Natatorium
• Approved student drop-off lane plans for Capitol View Elementary School
• Approved structural repair for the Central Academy vehicular exit ramp
• Approved agenda and February 2, 2021 meeting minutes
• Approved consent items including HVAC renovations, restroom upgrades, and technology services

DMPS CLAT - Coffee with Legislators

The Des Moines Independent Community School District will discuss and announce its legislative priorities for 2021 and hold a question-and-answer session.

• Announcement of 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities
• Q&A session with legislators

Board Governance & Monitoring Report - 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 of Board Governance and Monitoring Reports. No votes or decisions are scheduled; it is a discussion-only meeting.

• Discussion of Board Governance and Monitoring Reports (no action expected)

The board conducted a work session to practice asking appropriate questions regarding monitoring reports. This practice utilized data concerning Black Males in Algebra 2.

Board of Directors

The Des Moines School Board will meet to approve several capital improvement contracts, including roof repairs and exterior restorations for multiple schools, and to approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Approval of AED equipment upgrades ($145,000)
• Award of Contract B8525 Hillis Roof ($327,500)
• Award of Contract B8535 Callanan Roof ($322,500)
• Award of Contract B8570 Prospect Exterior ($210,500)
• Award of Contract B8571 Roosevelt High School Exterior ($336,061)

The Board of Directors approved a consent agenda including $6,12,295.38 in bills and various facility contracts. A $500,000 Community Development Block Grant for CV Metro Kids was also approved. The board received presentations on social-emotional learning and School Resource Officers, with a vote on the SRO proposal scheduled for February 16.

• Approved consent agenda including $6,12,295.38 in bills (7-0)
• Approved AED upgrade B8608 (7-0)
• Awarded roof contract B8525 for Hillis (7-0)
• Awarded roof contract B8535 for Callanan (7-0)
• Awarded exterior contract B8570 for Prospect (7-0)
• Awarded exterior restoration contract B8671 for Roosevelt High School (7-0)
• Awarded acoustical ceilings and marker boards contract for Harding Middle School (7-0)
• Approved $500,000 City of Des Moines grant for CV Metro Kids (7-0)

Board Governance & Monitoring Report - Work Session

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors is holding a work session to discuss board governance and monitoring reports. The agenda includes only this discussion item, with no specific proposals or decisions listed.

• Discussion of Board Governance and Monitoring Reports

The board held a work session to discuss how to compile, read, and ask questions regarding monitoring reports. No formal actions were taken.

Board of Directors

The Des Moines school board held a public forum and regular meeting, approving minutes from previous meetings and passing a consent agenda. The consent agenda authorized $3,613,009.42 in bills, $253,923.63 in procurement card transactions, $95,000.04 in architect payments, and $667,315.78 in contractor payments for various school construction and renovation projects.

• Approved $3.6M in previously authorized bills and $254K in procurement card transactions
• Authorized $95,000.04 in architect payments for East Auditorium Renovation, Pleasant Hill Addition, Community Stadium, and Jefferson Addition
• Authorized $667,315.78 in contractor payments for projects including Callanan Auditorium Upgrade, East HS Auditorium, DMPS Community Stadium, and family & consumer science renovations at Hoover, Lincoln, Meredith, and Roosevelt
• Approved minutes from the Dec 30, 2020 special meeting and Jan 5, 2021 regular meeting
• Board members present: Rob Barron, Teree Caldwell-Johnson, Kalyn Cody, Kelli Soyer, Dwana Bradley, Kim Martorano (Kyrstin Delagardelle absent)

The Board approved the sale of the Mann Education Center to Joshua Christian Academy, Inc. and authorized numerous facility upgrade plans for various schools. The Board also accepted the 2020 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and approved over $3.8 million in payments.

• Approved sale of Mann Education Center to Joshua Christian Academy, Inc. for $1,500,000.00
• Approved $3,613,009.42 in authorized bills and $253,923.63 in procurement card transactions
• Approved HVAC upgrade plans for Brubaker Elementary, Hoyt Middle, Hillis Elementary, Morris Elementary, King Elementary, Samuelson Elementary, Central Campus Auditorium, and Central Nutrition Center
• Approved restroom upgrade plans for Jackson, Morris, Willard, Weeks, Perkins, Phillips, Windsor, Merrill, East High, Harding Middle, Lincoln High, and Callanan Middle schools
• Approved flooring upgrade plans for Garton Elementary, Hanawalt Elementary, Weeks Middle, Callanan Middle, East High, and North High schools
• Approved construction plans for DMPS Community Stadium at Drake Stadium
• Approved purchase and installation of walk-in cooler and freezer at Moulton Elementary School
• Accepted the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2020

Des Moines Teachers Retirement System (DMTRS) Annual Meeting

This is a routine annual meeting of the Des Moines Teachers Retirement System Advisory Committee. The committee will receive updates on the annual report, financials, and a presentation from BTC Capital Management. No votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Review of the annual report for the retirement system
• Financial update including investment performance
• Presentation from BTC Capital Management
• Discussion of next meeting date

The Des Moines Teachers Retirement System provided a financial summary showing a decrease in plan assets and a rise in pension liability. The meeting included updates on the investment portfolio and the status of the plan's membership.

• Reported plan assets decreased by 4.2 million
• Reported pension liability increased from 3.5 million to 17.8 million
• Confirmed plan is closed to new membership
• Reported funded ratio of 92.9%
• Reported investment portfolio market value of $236 million as of June 30, 2020

Board Governance & Monitoring Report - Work Session - CANCELLED

This meeting of the Des Moines Independent Community School District Board of Directors was cancelled. No decisions or discussions took place.

• Meeting cancelled; no business conducted

Audit Committee Meeting

The Des Moines Independent Community School District Audit Committee will meet virtually to review draft reports for the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report and the Internal Audit, and discuss the 2021/2022 risk assessment.

• Review of draft Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR)
• Review of draft Internal Audit (IA) Report Update
• Discussion of 2021/2022 Risk Assessment
• Meeting held virtually via Teams
• Next meetings scheduled for conference call and quarterly sessions

The committee reviewed the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) presentation and received updates on internal investigations and the 2021-2022 risk assessment. No formal votes were taken as a quorum was not reached.

• Delayed vote for agenda approval due to lack of quorum
• Proposed plan of 9 audit projects for committee review in a future working session

DMPS CLAT - Coffee with Legislators

The Des Moines Independent Community School District's CLAT (Coffee with Legislators) is meeting virtually to announce the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities and hold a Q&A session. This is a discussion-only meeting, not a decision-making or voting session.

• Announcement of the 2021 DMPS Legislative Priorities
• Q&A session for attendees to ask questions

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors met to approve a consent agenda including significant software and hardware expenditures. The board also authorized various contractor payments for school facility upgrades.

• Microsoft products contract with Zones in Auburn, WA for $1,964,039.18
• Computer lease buy out for $730,947.00
• Contractor payments totaling $128,811.09 for projects including Lovejoy Gym, Harding, North, and Weeks science rooms
• Payment of $66,793.09 to Mid-America Golf & Landscape for East High Football Field & Running Track
• Approval of bills for $13,770,122.20 and procurement card transactions for $340,647.45

The Board approved plans for the Jefferson Solar PV Project and acoustical ceiling and markerboard installations at Harding Middle School. It also approved a permanent and temporary easement for the City of Des Moines at Perkins Elementary School. Additionally, the Board approved consent items including $13,770,122.20 in bills and $340,647.45 in procurement card transactions.

• Approved Jefferson Solar PV Project plans (6-0)
• Approved acoustical ceilings and markerboard installation at Harding Middle School (6-0)
• Approved City of Des Moines easement agreement at Perkins Elementary (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including $13,770,122.20 in bills and $340,647.45 in procurement card transactions (6-0)
• Approved resolution to hold public hearing for sale of Mann Education Center (6-0)
• Approved Microsoft Agreement B8582 (6-0)
• Approved personnel recommendations (6-0)
• Tabled vote on MR 4.1.1 Black Males Algebra monitoring report