Grand Rapids Public Schools public meetings in 2020

Board Meeting - Canceled

This meeting is canceled. The Grand Rapids Board of Education is holding only one business meeting per month on the first Monday due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with virtual meetings continuing until further notice.

• Notice of meeting cancellation for December 21, 2020

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 PM

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a virtual special meeting on Dec. 14, 2020. Board members will receive reports on finance, budget and bond updates, as well as an enrollment and facilities audit conducted by Plante Moran. An action item will be considered to approve the district's purchasing agenda. The meeting also includes standard public‑notice items and a public comment period.

• Finance/Budget/Bond Updates – discussion report
• Enrollment and Facilities Audit by Plante Moran – discussion report
• Purchasing Agenda – motion to approve
• Resolution Covid‑19 Board Meeting Rules and Public Participation – informational
• Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Statement – informational

The Board held a work session to discuss three options for spending the remaining $47 million in bond funds. Administration presented plans to address ventilation audits, roof repairs, and HVAC needs, while discussing the financial viability of renovating Innovation Central High School.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Yeas - Carried)

Special Board Meeting/Closed Session (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 PM

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education is holding a virtual special meeting that includes a closed session to discuss the superintendent's evaluation. The meeting will also include public comment, roll call, and agenda approval.

• Closed session for Superintendent evaluation (pursuant to Open Meetings Act)
• Public comment via electronic comment cards due 30 minutes before meeting
• Resolution regarding COVID-19 Board Meeting Rules and public participation
• Roll call and agenda approval by voice vote

The Board of Education convened for a special meeting and voted to enter a closed session to discuss the Superintendent's evaluation. The board reconvened in open session at 6:43 p.m. to begin a regular board meeting.

• Approved motion to enter closed session for Superintendent evaluation (9-0)

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) @ 6:30 p.m. - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will vote to reconfirm its Return to Learn Plan, originally approved in August 2020. The board will also act on the superintendent's evaluation, ratify collective bargaining agreements with three employee groups, and approve several financial resolutions including summer property tax and banking resolutions. Committee chairs and the superintendent will provide updates, and the board will consider a policy on news media relations and a nomination to the MASB board of directors.

• Motion to reconfirm the COVID-19 Preparedness and Response Plan (Return to Learn Plan)
• Superintendent's evaluation rating vote
• Ratification of collective bargaining agreements for GRAEOP, GREOA, and GRACEN
• Approval of purchasing agenda and addendum (specific dollar amounts not listed in agenda text)
• Annual summer property tax resolution for 2021

The Board of Education approved the meeting agenda. Members received reports on the district's virtual learning participation rates, COVID-19 outbreak data from the Kent County Health Department, and the certification of four board members for new four-year terms.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Finance Committee Meeting (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 p.m.

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Finance Committee will consider a motion to approve the Purchasing Agenda and move it to the Board meeting on December 7, 2020. It will also consider motions to approve four Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation grants and a City of GR Neighborhood Match Funds grant with the East Hills Council of Neighbors. The committee will review the October financial statements and receive updates on bond construction projects. A brief discussion about scheduling a December meeting may also occur.

• Motion to approve the Purchasing Agenda for Board consideration on Dec 7, 2020
• Motion to approve four Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation Grants for Board consideration on Dec 7, 2020
• Motion to approve the City of GR Neighborhood Match Funds Grant with East Hills Council of Neighbors
• Review of October Financial Statements
• Discussion of Bond Construction Updates

The Finance Committee approved moving a purchasing agenda, several Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation grants, and a City of Grand Rapids neighborhood grant forward to the December 7 board meeting. The committee also reviewed October financial statements and received updates on bond construction projects.

• Approved moving purchasing agenda to Dec. 7 board meeting
• Approved moving $13,500 in Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation grants to Dec. 7 board meeting
• Approved moving $2,500 City of Grand Rapids Neighborhood Match Funds Grant to Dec. 7 board meeting

Board Meeting - Canceled (NOTE A SPECIAL MEETING WAS SCHEDULED IN PLACE OF THIS MEETING)

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education canceled its regular meeting scheduled for November 16, 2020, and held a special meeting in its place due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The board is currently holding one business meeting per month on the first Monday, with all meetings virtual until further notice.

• Regular board meeting canceled for November 16, 2020
• Special meeting held in place of the regular meeting
• Meetings limited to one per month on first Monday due to COVID-19
• All meetings virtual until governor's emergency order lifted or in-person meetings announced

Special Board Meeting/Closed Session (Virtual Meeting) @ 6:30 PM

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education is meeting virtually for a special meeting and closed session. The board will vote on appointing two Parent Advisors for Special Education and then enter closed session to discuss the superintendent's evaluation. The meeting includes public comment via electronic card submission.

• Appointment of Sarah Szuminski and Megan Wacker to 3-year terms as Parent Advisors for Special Education (Action Item 4.1)
• Closed session for superintendent evaluation under Open Meetings Act Section 8(a) (Item 5.2)
• Resolution on COVID-19 board meeting rules and public participation in electronic meetings (Item 1.4, informational)

The Board of Education approved two appointments to the Parent Advisors for Special Education (PASE) for three-year terms. The board also entered a closed session to discuss the Superintendent's evaluation.

• Approved appointments of Sarah Szuminski and Megan Wacker as Parent Advisors for Special Education (8-0)
• Approved motion to enter closed session for Superintendent evaluation (8-0)

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) @ 6:30 p.m. - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board will consider reconfirming the Return to Learn Plan for COVID-19, originally approved in August. The board will also vote on a purchasing agenda and accept donations including $65,000 in art and school supplies from Meijer and PNC Bank. Several reports and consent agenda items are scheduled for approval.

• Reconfirm Return to Learn Plan (COVID-19 preparedness)
• Purchasing Agenda approval
• $65,000 in-kind donation from Meijer ($35,000) and PNC Bank ($30,000) for PK-4 student supplies
• Donation for Buchanan Elementary (amount unspecified)
• GO Campaign final report and Building Together Donor Wall celebration

The Board of Education reconfirmed the district's Return to Learn Plan, maintaining a 100 percent virtual learning format. The board also received reports on fundraising successes and upcoming committee schedules.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)
• Reconfirmed the Return to Learn Plan (Carried: Yeas: Ms. Lewis, Rev. Matias, Mr. Ross, Ms. Schottke)

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Virtual Meeting) @ 4:30 PM

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a special virtual meeting/work session to review the district's financial audit. The agenda also includes a resolution on COVID-19 board meeting rules and public participation in electronic meetings. Public comment will be accepted via electronic comment cards submitted 30 minutes before the meeting.

• Financial Audit Review – discussion and informational item
• Resolution on COVID-19 Board Meeting Rules and Public Participation in Electronic Meetings (informational)
• Virtual meeting with public access via Zoom and livestream
• Public comment via electronic comment cards due 30 minutes before meeting

The Board of Education reviewed the 2020 financial audit, which received an unmodified clean opinion. The district's general fund ended the 2019-20 year at $10.7 million, exceeding the required 5 percent minimum fund balance.

• Approved 2020 Financial Audit Report (7-0)

Finance Committee Meeting (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 p.m.

The Finance Committee will vote on approving a purchasing agenda and two donations. They will also receive updates on September financial statements, bond construction, COVID-19 funds, and Dream Fund grants. Public comment is invited before adjournment.

• Motion to approve the purchasing agenda to move forward to the November 2 board meeting.
• In-kind donation from Meijer ($35,000) and PNC Bank ($30,000) for 7,000 cinch sacks of art and school supplies for PK-4 students.
• Donation of approximately $11,000 in school supplies for Buchanan Elementary via Amazon Wish List.
• Report on September 2020 financial statements.
• Discussion on bond construction updates and COVID-19 funds update.

The committee approved moving a purchasing agenda, including a $3.2 million device replacement, and two donations to the November 2 board meeting. Members also reviewed September financial statements and the allocation of COVID-19 relief funds.

• Approved moving purchasing agenda to Nov 2 board meeting (carried)
• Approved moving $65,000 Meijer and PNC Bank donation to Nov 2 board meeting (carried)
• Approved moving $11,000 Buchanan Elementary donation to Nov 2 board meeting (carried)

Board Meeting - Canceled

The October 19, 2020 regular board meeting is canceled. The Grand Rapids Board of Education is currently holding one business meeting per month on the first Monday due to the COVID-19 pandemic. All meetings remain virtual until further notice.

• Meeting canceled; next meeting will be on the first Monday of November

City Board Liaison Committee

The City Board Liaison Committee will hear updates from the mayor, city manager, and Grand Rapids Public Schools, including reports on GRow 1000, COVID‑19, public safety, and the school budget. The committee will also receive a bond update and a Green Schoolyards update. Two action items will be considered: approval of the Our Community's Children Work Plan and acceptance of a Joint Use of Facilities and Maintenance Agreement.

• Approve Our Community's Children Work Plan (Action Item 5.1)
• Accept Joint Use of Facilities and Maintenance Agreement (Action Item 5.2)
• GRow 1000 Summer 2020 Report (Report 3.1)
• COVID‑19 Update (Report 3.2)
• Budget Update from Grand Rapids Public Schools (Report 4.4)

The committee approved the meeting agenda and received reports on the GRow 1000 youth employment program, public safety, and lead poisoning prevention. GRPS leadership provided updates on the Return to Learn plan, budget amendments, and the status of 2015 bond projects.

• Approved the agenda as written (Voice Vote: Carried)

Special Board Meeting/Board Governance Training/Retreat @ 8:30 a.m.

This special board meeting and retreat focuses on board governance training, equity policy updates, and superintendent evaluation. The board will hear bond project updates and vote on a purchasing agenda. Public comment and a self-reflection activity are also scheduled.

• Bond update from Larry Oberst
• Purchasing agenda action item
• Legislative updates from John Helmholdt
• Equity policy updates from Sharron Pitts
• Superintendent evaluation and Domain One updates

The Board approved the purchase of classroom conference cameras to support hybrid and online learning. Members also received updates on bond project expenditures and state legislative changes regarding COVID-19 and education funding.

• Approved $64,048 purchase of classroom conference cameras (9-0)

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) @ 6:30 p.m. - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a virtual meeting on October 5, 2020. The board will consider action items including a purchasing agenda, an easement resolution for Kent Hills, and first readings of Bylaw #1180 on board committees and Policy #8670 on medication administration. The superintendent will provide an update on the Extended COVID-19 Learning Plan and discuss the importance of Count Day. The board is also set to accept donations from Office Depot ($6,155), Accelerate360 (100,000 face masks valued at $20,000), and Fifth Third Bank (Chromebooks).

• Easement Resolution Agreement for Kent Hills with Michael and Erica Spalding
• First reading of Bylaw #1180 - Board Committees
• First reading of Policy #8670 - Administration of Medication by School Personnel
• Donation of $6,155 from Office Depot for Cesar E. Chavez Elementary
• Donation of 100,000 face masks ($20,000 value) from Accelerate360 and Chromebooks from Fifth Third Bank

The Board approved the meeting agenda. District leadership provided updates on the Extended COVID-19 Learning Plan, including student preference data and a revised implementation timeline for hybrid and virtual models.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 PM

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a virtual special meeting and work session. The main agenda item is a discussion of the superintendent's evaluation. The meeting also includes a resolution on COVID-19 board meeting rules and public participation.

• Superintendent evaluation discussion (work session)
• Resolution on COVID-19 board meeting rules and public participation
• Virtual meeting with public comment via electronic card

The Board approved the meeting agenda and received updates on the district's COVID-19 learning plans. The district will implement hybrid in-person and 100% virtual models starting October 26, following a parent communication period beginning October 9.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Finance Committee Meeting (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 p.m.

The Finance Committee will vote on the Purchasing Agenda to move it to the Board meeting on October 5, 2020. It will consider three donations: Office Depot's $6,155 contribution for Cesar E. Chavez schools, Accelerate360's $20,000 donation of 100,000 three‑ply masks, and Fifth Third Bank's $22,000 donation of 50 Chromebooks. The committee will also review August financial statements, bond construction updates, and a COVID‑19 funds update, and discuss the 2020‑21 State School Aid Budget.

• Motion to approve the Purchasing Agenda for the October 5 Board meeting
• Office Depot donation valued at $6,155 for school/office supplies
• Accelerate360 donation of 100,000 three‑ply masks valued at $20,000
• Fifth Third Bank donation of 50 Chromebooks valued at $22,000
• Easement Resolution Agreement Kent Hills with Michael Spalding and Erica Spalding

The committee approved moving a purchasing agenda, three donations, and an easement resolution to the October 5 board meeting. Members also received updates on COVID-19 relief funding and ongoing school construction projects.

• Advanced purchasing agenda for technology, curriculum, and security to Oct 5 board meeting
• Advanced approx. $6,155 Office Depot donation for Cesar E. Chaves to Oct 5 board meeting
• Advanced donation of 100,000 face masks from Accelerate360 to Oct 5 board meeting
• Advanced donation of 50 Chromebooks (approx. $22,000) from Fifth Third Bank to Oct 5 board meeting
• Advanced easement resolution for Michael and Erica Spalding at Kent Hills to Oct 5 board meeting

Board Meeting - Canceled

The regular board meeting scheduled for September 21, 2020, has been canceled. The Board of Education is currently holding one business meeting per month due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) @ 6:30 p.m. - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a virtual meeting on September 8, 2020. The board will vote on a $1.39 million donation from the Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation and CDV5 Foundation to fund the Great Sports Program for elementary and middle schools. Other action items include a resolution declaring Peace Education Week (September 21-25) and approval of the purchasing agenda. The meeting also includes public comment and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Donation of $1.39 million from Doug and Maria DeVos Foundation and CDV5 Foundation for the Great Sports Program (July 2020–July 2026)
• Resolution to recognize Peace Education Week, September 21–25, 2020
• Approval of the purchasing agenda and purchasing agenda addendum
• Personnel transactions and approval of minutes from August 2020 board meetings
• Virtual public meeting with Zoom access and public comment via electronic cards

The Board of Education met virtually to receive reports on the opening of the school year and the status of fall sports. The board approved the meeting agenda; no other substantive votes were recorded in the provided text.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Finance Committee Meeting (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 p.m.

The committee will discuss and vote on approving a $1.39 million donation from Great Sports, funded by the Doug and Maria Devos Foundation ($695,000) and the CDV5 Foundation ($695,000), to support elementary and middle school sports through July 2026. They will also consider the purchasing agenda to move forward to the Board meeting on September 8, 2020. Additionally, there will be updates on the budget and bond construction.

• Donation from Great Sports: $1.39 million for elementary and middle school sports, July 2020–July 2026
• Purchasing agenda to be recommended for approval and forwarded to the Board on September 8, 2020
• Budget update discussion
• Bond construction updates

The committee approved a purchasing agenda and a multi-year donation for the Great Sports Program to move forward to the September 8 board meeting. Staff provided updates on budget deficits, COVID-19 funding, and the status of various school construction projects.

• Approved purchasing agenda for board meeting (carried)
• Approved $1.39 million donation for Great Sports Program (carried)

Special Board Meeting (Virtual Meeting) @ 4:30 PM

This is a special virtual meeting of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education. The only action item is approval of administrative appointments for Aberdeen and Buchanan schools. The meeting also includes public comment and procedural items.

• Approval of administrative appointments for Aberdeen and Buchanan schools (action item 3.1)
• Resolution on COVID-19 board meeting rules and public participation (informational only)
• Public comment period available via electronic submission

The Board of Education approved two administrative appointments for elementary school principals. The decision followed the presentation of biographies for the recommended candidates.

• Approved Adam High Gutierrez as Principal of Buchanan Elementary (6-0)
• Approved Victoria H. Simon as Principal of Aberdeen Elementary (6-0)

Board Meeting - Canceled

The regular board meeting scheduled for August 17, 2020 is canceled. The board is holding one business meeting per month on the first Monday due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Meetings will be virtual until further notice.

• Meeting of August 17, 2020 canceled due to COVID-19

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Virtual Meeting) @ 5:30 p.m.(Time Adjusted) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a virtual special meeting to vote on a COVID-19 Preparedness Response Plan Resolution and a purchasing agenda for the Schoology Learning Management System. The meeting also includes procedural items such as roll call, agenda approval, and public comment.

• COVID-19 Preparedness Response Plan Resolution (action item with proposed motion to approve purchasing addendum)
• Purchasing agenda for Schoology Learning Management System (action item with proposed motion to approve)
• Resolution on COVID-19 Board Meeting Rules and Public Participation in Electronic Meetings (informational item)
• Virtual public comment period for agenda and non-agenda items (comment cards due 30 minutes before meeting)

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) @ 6:30 p.m. - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hear a report on the back-to-school distance learning plan and consider action items including a $10,000 Dream Fund grant for Union High School soccer uniforms and equipment. The board will also adopt policies regarding communicable diseases (employees and students) and sexual harassment. Several purchasing agendas and a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant are up for approval.

• Back-to-school distance learning plan presented in Superintendent's Report
• Dream Fund grant of $10,000 from Grand Rapids Community Foundation for Union High School soccer program
• W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant approval
• Final adoption of Policy #5350 (Communicable Diseases – Employees) and Policy #8510 (Communicable Diseases – Students)
• Final adoption of Policy #5037 (Sexual Harassment of Employees or Other Persons)

The Board approved a purchasing agenda including meal support and food supply contracts. Superintendent Roby announced that the Schoology learning management system will now be implemented as a pilot at select sites rather than a full district rollout.

• Approved agenda as written (Voice Vote: Carried)
• Approved $1.1M contract for meal support staff with West Michigan Janitorial
• Approved estimated $700,000 milk purchase from Cedar Crest Dairy
• Approved $138,350 contract for athletic officials with RefPay
• Approved $110,000 bread products purchase from Aunt Millie’s Bakeries and Gordon Food Service
• Approved $57,628 software renewal with Frontline Technologies Group, LLC
• Approved $37,060 lease for Zoo School classroom space from John Ball Zoological Gardens
• Approved $34,603 athletic insurance payment to First Agency

Finance Committee Meeting (5:30 p.m.)

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Finance Committee meets virtually to discuss and vote on several financial action items. The committee will consider approving the Purchasing Agenda, Blanket Purchases for 2020-2021, and a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant, all recommended to move forward to the full Board meeting on August 3, 2020. No other reports or policy items are scheduled.

• Motion to approve the Purchasing Agenda for the August 3 board meeting
• Motion to approve Blanket Purchases for the 2020-2021 school year
• Motion to approve a W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant
• Public comment period for agenda and non-agenda items
• Virtual meeting with Zoom access and live webstream

The Finance Committee approved three items to move forward to the August 3 board meeting: the purchasing agenda, the 2020-21 blanket purchases, and a W.K. Kellogg Foundation grant. The committee also discussed potential COVID-19 funding sources and the timeline for the school reopening plan.

• Approved purchasing agenda to move to August 3 board meeting
• Approved 2020-21 Blanket Purchases to move to August 3 board meeting
• Approved $900,000 W.K. Kellogg Foundation Grant for literacy summer school to move to August 3 board meeting

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The board will vote on first readings of several policies: two on communicable diseases (employees and students), four on sexual and discriminatory harassment (employees and students), and a revised 2020 board meeting schedule. The consent agenda includes approval of previous meeting minutes and personnel transactions. The meeting is conducted virtually due to COVID-19.

• First reading of Policy #5350 Communicable Diseases for Employees
• First reading of Policy #8510 Communicable Diseases for Students
• First reading of Policy #5037 Sexual Harassment of Employees or Other Persons
• First reading of Policy #8265 Sexual Harassment of Students
• Revised 2020 board meeting schedule (includes virtual meetings)

The Board approved the meeting agenda. Superintendent Dr. Roby and staff presented results from a distance learning survey of 1,170 employees, noting high overall satisfaction but significant challenges regarding student engagement and technology access for families.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Notice of a Special Board Meeting @ 6:30 PM

This special board meeting will consider and vote on the adoption of the 2020-2021 budgets for the General Operating, Special Revenue, and Debt Service funds, as well as second amendments to the 2019-2020 budgets for those funds. The board will also act on a change to Policy #3150 (Budget Fund Policy) and approve a purchasing agenda. Public comment is invited before board discussion.

• 2019-2020 Budget Amendment II (General Operating Fund) resolution
• Adoption of 2020-2021 General Operating Fund budget
• Adoption of 2020-2021 Special Revenue Fund budget
• Adoption of 2020-2021 Debt Service Fund budget
• Change to Policy #3150 - Budget Fund Policy

The Board approved a temporary change to the Budget Fund Policy to allow the fund balance to drop below 5% during emergencies, citing the Covid-19 pandemic. The Board also approved the Purchasing Agenda and budget amendments for the General Operating Fund and Special Revenue Fund.

• Approved Purchasing Agenda including $134,822 for security entrances (9-0)
• Approved $37,487 for PSAT/NMSQT test fees (9-0)
• Approved $35,000 for cafeteria tables at Southwest Community Campus High School (9-0)
• Approved $27,778 for student computing devices for San Juan Diego Academy (9-0)
• Adopted revised Policy #3510 Budget Fund Policy allowing fund balance to drop to 0% during emergencies (9-0)
• Approved 2019-2020 Budget Amendment II for General Operating Fund (9-0)
• Approved 2019-2020 Budget Amendment II for Special Revenue Fund (9-0)

Notice of a Public Hearing @ 6:00 PM

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education holds a virtual public hearing on the proposed 2020-2021 budget and the property tax millage rate to support it. The meeting includes an overview of the proposed budget and invites public comment. The meeting is conducted remotely under Governor Whitmer's Executive Order 2020-75 due to COVID-19.

• Public hearing on proposed 2020-2021 budget and property tax millage rate
• Virtual meeting via Zoom due to COVID-19 (Executive Order 2020-75)
• Overview of the 2020-2021 operating budget presented as a report
• Public comment period on the proposed budget

The Board of Education held a public hearing to receive input on the 2020-2021 proposed budget and the summer tax levy for Kent County. The chief financial officer reported budget cuts not seen in the district for over 40 years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. No public comment was submitted.

Notice Title VI Virtual Public Hearing @ 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm (Not a GRPS BOE MEETING)

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Native American Education Program (NAEP) is holding a Title VI virtual public hearing. This is a procedural meeting, not a regular board meeting, to gather public input on the program. No decisions or actions are listed on this agenda.

• Notice of Title VI virtual public hearing for the Native American Education Program (NAEP) on June 16, 2020, from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm.

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Virtual Board Meeting) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a special virtual meeting. Action items include approving the Michigan High School Athletic Association membership for 2020-21 and a purchasing agenda. The board will also receive reports on budget amendments to the General Operating Fund and Special Revenue Fund, as well as a 2020-2021 budget update. Public comment is accepted via electronic cards submitted 30 minutes before the meeting.

• Michigan High School Athletic Association Membership Resolution for 2020-21
• Purchasing Agenda approval
• Budget Amendment 2 - General Operating Fund (report)
• Budget Amendment 2 - Special Revenue Fund (report)
• 2020-2021 Budget Update

The Board approved the list of high schools and middle schools for Michigan High School Athletic Association membership for 2020-2021. It also accepted the purchasing agenda for instructional supplies and building projects. Board members reviewed a proposed budget amendment and state-level funding shortfalls, with a vote scheduled for June 29, 2020.

• Approved Michigan High School Athletic Association memberships for 2020-2021 (8-0)
• Approved $26,588 for WMCAT Teen Arts & Tech Afterschool Program (8-0)
• Approved $742,675 for MCEA membership dues for Business Services Department (8-0)
• Approved $29,880 for security keying at Southwest MS/HS (8-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education meets virtually on June 1. Action items include a layoff resolution, re-authorization of the Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center charter school, approval of its board, and a We Rise Together resolution. The board will also consider the Our Community's Children FY2021 budget and a purchasing agenda.

• Layoff Resolution (8.3)
• Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center re-authorization for 2020-2023 (8.1)
• We Rise Together Resolution (8.5)
• Asbestos Designated Person Immunity Resolution (8.4)
• Our Community's Children Fiscal Year 2021 Budget (8.6)

The Board of Education approved the reauthorization of the Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center Public School Academy and established its Board of Directors. The board also recognized several employees and community partners for their service and support of distance learning.

• Approved reauthorization of Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center charter through June 30, 2023 (9-0)
• Approved the Grand Rapids Child Discovery Center Board of Directors and established term and selection requirements (9-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

City Board Liaison Committee

The Grand Rapids Public Schools City Board Liaison Committee will meet virtually to discuss COVID-19 response, including continuity of learning, meal sites, technology access, and summer school planning. The board will introduce new superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby and hear budget updates for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021. A motion to approve the Fiscal Year 2021 budget for Our Community's Children is on the agenda.

• Introduction of new superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby
• COVID-19 update and continuity of learning plan
• Budget update for 2019-2020 and 2020-2021
• Motion to approve Fiscal Year 2021 budget for Our Community's Children
• Discussion on joint legislative agenda and parks tobacco/alcohol policy

The committee approved the Our Community’s Children budget to support afterschool programs and youth employment. Members also received updates on COVID-19 learning plans, city budget cuts, and the introduction of new Superintendent Dr. Leadriane Roby.

• Approved the Our Community’s Children 2020-2021 Budget (6-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (6-0)

Board Meeting - Canceled

This meeting of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education was cancelled. The only agenda item is a notice of the cancellation. No business was conducted.

• Notice of meeting cancellation for May 18, 2020

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Virtual Board Meeting) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The board will consider approving renewal of executive exempt contracts for the upcoming year. They will also receive reports on equity and inclusion and a financial update, including the ending fund balance. The meeting is conducted virtually due to COVID-19, with public comment accepted via electronic cards submitted 30 minutes prior.

• Action item: Executive Exempt Contracts Renewal (recommended for approval)
• Acknowledgment of Resolution for COVID-19 board meeting rules and public participation in electronic meetings
• Report on Equity and Inclusion
• Financial update with ending fund balance and Consensus Revenue Agreement Executive Summary
• Public comment process for agenda and non-agenda items via virtual cards

The Board of Education approved one-year contract renewals for executive exempt staff, excluding the Executive Director of Special Education. The board also approved the meeting agenda and received updates on distance learning and meal distributions.

• Approved agenda as written (Voice Vote: Carried)
• Approved all executive exempt contract renewals except for the Executive Director of Special Education (7-0)

Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a virtual meeting on May 4, 2020. Key actions include voting on a resolution to temporarily amend graduation credit requirements due to COVID-19, approving a revised 2020 board meeting schedule, and considering the Kent Intermediate School District's 2020-21 operating budget. The meeting also includes a distance learning plan update from the superintendent and a celebration of staff, parents, and students.

• Resolution to temporarily amend GRPS graduation credit requirements
• Distance Learning Plan Update from Superintendent
• Kent Intermediate School District 2020-21 Operating Budget Resolution
• Purchasing Agenda approval
• Revised 2020 Board Meeting Schedule approval

The Board held a virtual meeting and approved the agenda. The Superintendent provided updates on distance learning device distribution, meal sites, and the transition to virtual graduations for the Class of 2020.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Board Meeting - Canceled

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education meeting scheduled for April 20, 2020, has been canceled. No substantive business was conducted or discussed. The agenda consists solely of a notice of cancellation.

• Notice of Meeting Cancellation for the April 20, 2020 board meeting

Special Board Meeting (Virtual Board Meeting) - Click "View the Agenda" icon to access the Notice & Meeting Agenda

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board will consider several action items, including a resolution for a Continuity of Learning Plan and approval of the superintendent transition contract. The board will also vote on the superintendent contract covering July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2022 for Dr. Leadriane Roby. Additional items include a purchasing agenda, consent agenda approvals, and adoption of Bylaw #1180 for board committees.

• Resolution for Continuity of Learning Plan
• Superintendent Transition Contract
• Superintendent Contract (July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2022) Dr. Leadriane Roby
• Purchasing Agenda
• Bylaw #1180 – Board Committees (Final Reading – Adoption)

The Board of Education approved a Continuity of Learning Plan for students and established new rules for public participation in electronic meetings during the Covid-19 pandemic. The learning plan utilizes Seesaw for grades K-5 and Google Classroom for grades 6-12.

• Approved Covid-19 Board Meeting Rules and Public Participation in Electronic Meetings (9-0)
• Approved Resolution for Continuity Learning Plan (9-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (Voice Vote: Carried)

Board Meeting - Canceled

This meeting was canceled. The agenda included procedural items, a COVID-19 update, and proposed action on superintendent contracts, but no business was conducted.

• COVID-19 update (canceled)
• Superintendent transition contract for Dr. Leadriane Roby (canceled)
• Superintendent contract for Dr. Leadriane Roby (canceled)
• Policy adoption on Board Committees (Bylaw #1180) and Medication Administration (Policy #8670) (canceled)
• Approval of minutes from March 2, 2020 (canceled)

Special Meeting - Review of Goal Attainment Structured Conference Meeting - Administrative Meeting (Not a Board Meeting)

This is a special administrative meeting (not a board meeting) of the Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education to review goal attainment. The agenda includes only procedural items: public notice, call to order, approval of agenda, public comment, and adjournment. No votes, proposals, or public hearings are listed.

• No substantive items on the agenda; meeting is purely procedural.

Special Board Meeting/Work Session

This special board meeting/work session includes discussions on onboarding a new superintendent, an equity audit update, a report from the equity symposium, and planning for a board retreat. The agenda is primarily procedural and discussion-focused with no votes on specific policies or contracts.

• Onboarding New Superintendent Discussion
• Equity Audit Update
• Equity Symposium Report Out
• Board Retreat planning

The board discussed an upcoming equity audit by Eschbacher Consulting to streamline theme and neighborhood school enrollment. Members reviewed a draft contract and onboarding schedule for the new superintendent. The board also agreed to schedule a retreat for either April 13 or April 27.

• Approved agenda as written
• Agreed to hold board retreat on April 13 or April 27

Board Meeting

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will consider several action items, including approving an equity audit contract, a lease with Ferris State University for Southwest Middle/High School, and purchases. First readings of Bylaw #1180 on board committees and Policy #8670 on medication administration will be presented. The board will also adopt resolutions for Employee Appreciation Day, Cesar E. Chavez Day, National School Breakfast Week, Women's History Month, March is Reading Month, and Music in Our Schools Month.

• Equity Audit Contract approval
• Southwest Middle/High School lease with Ferris State University
• Purchases agenda approval
• First reading of Bylaw #1180 (Board Committees)
• First reading of Policy #8670 (Administration of Medication by School Personnel)

The Board of Education approved a purchasing agenda including a new K-5 ELA curriculum and various instructional and facility services. The board also received updates on the GR Promise Zone scholarship and upcoming district events.

• Approved Purchasing Agenda (6-0)
• Approved $1,596,353.00 for ReadyGEN ELA curriculum for grades K-5 (Pearson)
• Approved $1,050,000.00 for emotionally impaired student programs (Kent Intermediate School District)
• Approved $411,049.00 for Service Building/bus depot parking lot pavement (Dean Transportation)
• Approved $380,000.00 for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Center Program (Northview Public Schools)
• Approved $199,735.00 for asbestos removal at Union High School (Global Green Services Group, Trust Thermal Abatement)
• Approved $58,000.00 for enrollment process equity audit (Eschbacher Consulting LLC)
• Approved $50,400.00 for students attending Davenport University

Finance Committee Meeting (4:30 p.m.)

The Finance Committee will vote on a lease agreement for Southwest Middle/High School with Ferris State University, approve a purchasing agenda, and approve an equity audit contract. Members will also discuss January financial statements, a bond construction update, and Dream Fund projects, and receive a presentation on Governor Whitmer's proposed school aid budget for FY 2020-21.

• Southwest Middle/High School Lease with Ferris State University
• Approval of Purchases (purchasing agenda)
• Equity Audit Contract
• January Financial Statements discussion
• Bond Construction Update discussion

The Finance Committee approved a purchasing agenda including a new K-5 ELA curriculum and a lease agreement with Ferris State University. The committee also approved a contract with Eschbacher Consulting LLC for an equity audit. Both the purchasing agenda and the equity audit contract were recommended for Board of Education action on March 2, 2020.

• Approved Southwest Middle/High School lease with Ferris State University ($24,000 base rent)
• Approved purchasing agenda including Ready GEN ELA curriculum ($1,596,353)
• Approved asbestos removal project purchase from Global Green Services ($199,735)
• Approved Equity Audit Contract with Eschbacher Consulting LLC
• Recommended Equity Audit Contract for Board action on March 2, 2020
• Recommended Purchasing Agenda for Board action on March 2, 2020

Special Board Meeting/Superintendent Search (5:30 p.m.)

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special meeting focused on the superintendent search. The board will deliberate on finalists using a matrix from Ray & Associates and then take action to select the next superintendent.

• Deliberation on superintendent search finalists with matrix from Ray & Associates
• Action item to vote on superintendent selection

The Board of Education selected a new superintendent from three candidates provided by the search firm Ray and Associates. Dr. Leadriane Roby was approved for the position in a 7-2 vote.

• Approved the hiring of Dr. Leadriane Roby as superintendent (7-2)

CANCELED - Board Meeting (Regular Business Meeting) A Special Board Meeting has been Scheduled in its place

The regular Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education meeting scheduled for February 17, 2020, has been canceled. A Special Board Meeting has been scheduled in its place.

Special Board Meeting/Business Item & Superintendent Search Second Round Interviews (Meeting Begins at 5:00 p.m.) - Doors Open at 4:30 p.m.

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will hold a special meeting to conduct second-round interviews with three superintendent candidates: Dr. Darrin Slade, Dr. Erick D. Pruitt, and Dr. Leadriane Roby. The board will also vote on a resolution to ratify the Grand Rapids Educational Officers Association contract. Public comment will be heard on agenda and non-agenda items.

• Resolution to ratify the Grand Rapids Educational Officers Association contract (action item)
• Interview with Dr. Darrin Slade at 5:00-6:15 p.m.
• Interview with Dr. Erick D. Pruitt at 6:30-7:45 p.m.
• Interview with Dr. Leadriane Roby at 8:00-9:15 p.m.
• Board meeting scheduled for Feb 24, 2020 at 5:30 p.m. for next steps

The Board of Education approved a two-year collective bargaining agreement with the Grand Rapids Educational Officers Association. The meeting also included second-round interviews for the superintendent position.

• Approved resolution to ratify Grand Rapids Educational Officers Association Contract (9-0)

Special Board Meeting/Superintendent Search (Meeting Begins at 4:30 p.m.)

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special meeting to advance the superintendent search. After first-round interviews, the board will work with search firm Ray & Associates to reach consensus and select candidates for second-round interviews, finalize interview questions, and set next steps including focus groups and a public interview session on February 17.

• Ray & Associates to facilitate board consensus on candidate selections using a matrix
• Selection of candidates for second-round superintendent interviews (action item)
• Finalize second-round interview questions
• Next steps: focus groups and second-round interviews scheduled for February 17, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in Board Chambers

Special Board Meeting/Superintendent Search Round One Interviews (Meeting Begins at 8:30 a.m.) - Doors Open at 8:00 a.m.

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special meeting on February 8, 2020, to conduct round-one interviews for the superintendent position. Five candidates are scheduled to be interviewed: Dr. Leadriane Roby, Dr. Harold Yearwood, Dr. Yvonne Stokes, Dr. Darrin Slade, and Dr. Erick Pruitt. The board will also take public comment and plans to discuss next steps and second-round selections at a work session on February 10.

• 8:45 a.m. – Interview with Dr. Leadriane Roby
• 10:15 a.m. – Interview with Dr. Harold Yearwood
• 12:15 p.m. – Interview with Dr. Yvonne Stokes
• 1:45 p.m. – Interview with Dr. Darrin Slade
• 3:15 p.m. – Interview with Dr. Erick Pruitt; next steps work session scheduled Feb 10 at 4:30 p.m.

The Board of Education held first-round interviews with five candidates for the superintendent position. No selection was made during this meeting; the board will decide on second-round candidates at a meeting on February 10, 2020.

• Approved the meeting agenda (9-0)
• Interviewed Dr. Leadriane Roby
• Interviewed Dr. Harold Yearwood
• Interviewed Dr. Yvonne Stokes
• Interviewed Dr. Darrin Slade
• Interviewed Dr. Erick Pruitt

Board Meeting

The Board of Education will consider several action items including budget amendments for the General, Special Revenue, and Debt Retirement funds. The meeting also includes an update on the superintendent search process regarding upcoming candidate interviews.

• Adoption of Budget Amendment One - General Fund Resolution
• Adoption of Budget Amendment One - Special Revenue Fund Resolution
• Adoption of Budget Amendment One - Debt Retirement Fund Resolution
• KISD Schools of Choice Resolution
• Anonymous donation for East Leonard Elementary School

The Board of Education ratified a two-year collective bargaining agreement with the Grand Rapids Association of Educational Office Personnel (GRAEOP). Members also approved a purchasing agenda for instructional supplies and the Kent Intermediate School District Schools of Choice Resolution.

• Approved Kent Intermediate School District Schools of Choice Resolution (7-0)
• Approved Purchasing Agenda including $30,934 for Early Childhood Bright Beginnings, $42,000 for YMCA PE programming, and $79,545 for IB exam fees (7-0)
• Approved $32,862 for ESL instructional materials via Benchmark Education Company (7-0)
• Approved $50,321 for ELL literature libraries via Scholastic Teacher Store (7-0)
• Approved $6,333 for National Geographic/Cengage Learning bilingual literacy materials (7-0)
• Approved $9,887 for ELL materials for nonpublic schools via National Geographic/Cengage Learning (7-0)
• Approved $36,252 for ELL materials for non-cultural centers via National Geographic/Cengage Learning (7-0)
• Ratified GRAEOP collective bargaining agreement (7-0)

Special Board Meeting/Work Session - Superintendent Search

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education is holding a special meeting/work session focused on the superintendent search. The board will review candidates' applications, select which candidates will advance to first-round interviews, and discuss the interview process including scheduling and question format.

• Review and discuss superintendent candidates' applications
• Action item: select candidates for first-round interviews
• Discuss process for notifying candidates and scheduling interviews
• Review and discuss interview questions/format

The Board of Education reviewed a candidate matrix and ranking to determine which applicants to move forward for interviews. The board approved a motion to interview the top five candidates on February 8, 2020, and developed a list of 25 interview questions.

• Approved motion to interview the top 5 candidates (8-1)
• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote)

Finance Committee Meeting

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Finance Committee will consider three budget amendments (General Fund, Special Revenue Fund, and Debt Retirement Fund) and a purchasing agenda for approval. They will also discuss December financial statements, bond construction updates, and the January Revenue Estimating Consensus. The agenda contains no specific dollar amounts or project details.

• Motion to approve Budget Amendment One for the General Fund
• Motion to approve Budget Amendment One for the Special Revenue Fund
• Motion to approve Budget Amendment One for the Debt Retirement Fund
• Motion to approve the Purchasing Agenda for February 3, 2020
• Discussion of December Financial Statements and bond construction updates

The committee approved moving the purchasing agenda and Budget Amendment I for the General Fund, Special Revenue Fund, and Debt Retirement Fund to the February 4, 2020 board meeting. The budget adjustments include a per pupil allowance increase of $60 and updated enrollment projections.

• Approved purchasing agenda to move to Feb 4 board meeting
• Approved Budget Amendment One – General Fund to move to Feb 4 board meeting
• Approved Budget Amendment One – Special Revenue Fund to move to Feb 4 board meeting
• Approved Budget Amendment One – Debt Retirement Fund to move to Feb 4 board meeting

Special Board Meeting/Work Session (Closed) - Superintendent Search

This special board meeting/work session is primarily a closed session to review applications for the superintendent position, facilitated by Ray & Associates. The board will also schedule the next search meeting in open session. Public comment on agenda and non-agenda items will be heard before the closed session.

• Review of superintendent candidates' applications in closed session with Ray & Associates
• Scheduling of next search meeting in open session
• Public comment period for agenda and non-agenda items

The Board of Education reviewed superintendent candidate applications in a closed session. A motion to expand the list of candidates for interviews beyond those recommended by Ray and Associates, Inc. was defeated. The Board scheduled a follow-up work session for January 27, 2020.

• Approved motion to enter closed session to review employment applications (8-0)
• Denied motion to expand the list of candidates from the application pool for interviews (4-3)
• Scheduled work session for January 27, 2020, to determine interview candidates and questions

Board Meeting

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education will discuss an update on the superintendent search process and a planned work session on January 23, 2020. The meeting also includes a consent agenda with approval of minutes, finance committee minutes, and administrative appointments. No action items are on the docket beyond the consent agenda.

• Superintendent search update discussion with special board meeting set for Jan. 23, 2020
• Celebration for Grand Rapids Public Schools Robotics
• Approval of minutes from Jan. 6, 2020 special board/organizational meeting
• Approval of Finance Committee minutes from Nov. 25 and Dec. 16, 2019
• Administrative appointments as part of consent agenda

The Board approved a consent agenda that included the minutes from previous meetings and three administrative appointments. The meeting also included updates on the GR Promise Zone Authority's scholarship plan and theme school enrollment.

• Approved the meeting agenda (Voice Vote)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Jan 6, 2020 Special Board Meeting minutes (Voice Vote)
• Approved Finance Committee meeting minutes from Nov 25 and Dec 16, 2019 (Voice Vote)
• Approved appointment of Cathy Walter as Supervisor of Food & Nutrition Services/Dietician
• Approved appointment of Natasa Karic as Dean of Students at Innovation Central High School
• Approved appointment of Zachary Knaus as Hearing Officer at Franklin Campus

Special Board Meeting/Annual Organizational Meeting

The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education holds its annual organizational meeting. The board will elect officers for 2020, approve the regular board meeting schedule, and discuss an update on the superintendent search. A resolution declaring the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday is also on the consent agenda.

• Election of board officers for 2020
• Approval of Regular Board Meeting Schedule 2020
• Approval of Purchasing Agenda
• Resolution declaring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday
• Discussion of Superintendent Search Update

The Board of Education held its annual organizational meeting to elect leadership for the 2020 calendar year. The board appointed a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. The 2020 regular board meeting schedule was also presented.

• Appointed Ms. Grant as President (9-0)
• Appointed Ms. Schottke as Vice President (9-0)
• Appointed Ms. Lewis as Secretary (9-0)
• Appointed Ms. Williams as Treasurer (9-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda (9-0)