Janesville School District public meetings in 2020

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee reviewed and approved September–November 2020 financial summaries to move to the full board. The main discussion item was authorizing a parameters resolution for the district's voter-approved $22.5 million bond issuance. Members also reviewed first-quarter energy usage and an update on capital maintenance projects.

• Discussion on authorizing a parameters resolution for the $22.5 million bond issuance from a prior referendum
• Approval of September, October, and November 2020 year-to-date financial summaries to advance to the full board
• Review of first-quarter fiscal 2020-2021 energy usage results with comparative data from prior year
• Update on 2020 capital maintenance projects and future capital improvement plans

The committee approved moving the Fiscal 2020-2021 year-to-date financial summaries for September through November to the Full Board. A proposed parameters resolution for a $22.5 million bond issuance was rescinded and sent back for further review. The committee also reviewed first-quarter energy usage and 2020 capital maintenance project updates.

• Approved moving Fiscal 2020-2021 Year-To-Date Financial Summaries to the Full Board
• Rescinded motion to move Parameters Resolution for $22.5 Million Bond Issuance to the Full Board
• Directed Baird Financial to bring parameters resolution back to committee for review

Board of Education Meeting

The Janesville School Board met on December 8, 2020, approving a consent agenda that extended mandatory face coverings through March 19, 2021, and approved new course proposals and certified staff salary schedule changes. The board discussed updates on safety protocols and staff reallocation, and received a presentation on distance learning at Franklin Middle School. Two motions to pivot elementary grades (3-5 and all elementary) to distance learning from December 14 through January 15 were voted down.

• Approved extension of mandatory face covering resolution through March 19, 2021
• Approved new course proposals for 2020-2021
• Approved certified staff salary schedule changes
• Rejected motion to pivot grades 3-5 to distance learning (Dec 14-Jan 15)
• Rejected motion to pivot all elementary schools to distance learning (same period)

The Board of Education voted down two proposals to move elementary students to distance learning from December 14, 2020, to January 15, 2021. The Board approved several new high school courses and a salary schedule change for certified staff.

• Approved new course proposals including Biomedical Intervention and AP Spanish Literature (9-0)
• Approved Certified Staff Salary Schedule Changes including a 15-hour professional development credit (9-0)
• Approved extending resolution requiring mandatory face coverings with an amendment to be submitted Jan 12, 2021 (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Denise Jensen as Acting Assistant District Clerk and Board Secretary (9-0)
• Approved November 12 and November 18, 2020 meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved resignation of certified staff member Jeanne Gulliksen (9-0)
• Denied pivot of all Elementary Schools to distance learning Dec 14, 2020 – Jan 15, 2021 (4-5)
• Denied pivot of Elementary Grades 3, 4, and 5 to distance learning Dec 14, 2020 – Jan 15, 2021 (4-5)

Special Board of Education Meeting

The School Board reviewed COVID-19 data and approved moving Craig and Parker high schools to distance learning from November 30, 2020 to January 15, 2021. It also approved distance learning for middle schools and rescheduled November 23-24 for planning and deep cleaning. Athletic activities were allowed to continue with spectator limits. A proposal for elementary schools was discussed but no vote recorded.

• Approved pivot of Craig and Parker high schools to distance learning Nov 30 – Jan 15
• Approved pivot of middle schools (Franklin, Edison, Marshall) to distance learning Nov 30 – Jan 15
• Rescheduled Nov 23-24 as non-instructional days for planning and deep cleaning
• Approved continuing athletic activities with up to 2 spectators per home athlete, no away spectators
• Discussed COVID-19 data and district metrics

The Board of Education approved moving high schools and middle schools to distance learning from November 30, 2020, through January 15, 2021. Elementary schools will maintain their current instructional delivery. The Board also approved non-instructional days for cleaning and the continuation of athletic activities.

• Approved pivoting Craig and Parker High Schools to distance learning Nov 30, 2020 – Jan 15, 2021 (8-1)
• Approved moving Middle Schools to distance learning Nov 30, 2020 – Jan 15, 2021 (5-4)
• Directed Administration to maintain current instructional delivery at Elementary Schools
• Approved Nov 23-24, 2020 as non-instructional days for transitional planning and deep cleaning (9-0)
• Approved continuing athletic activities regardless of instructional delivery model (6-3)
• Approved allowing up to 2 spectators per athlete at home games, with no away team spectators (6-3)

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education took action on several items including approving a $3,000,000 tax and revenue anticipation promissory note for cash flow, adopting new NEOLA policies and retiring old ones, and deciding to postpone the start of the winter sports season to December 1 under Tier 2 B guidelines. The board also discussed a referendum update, inclement weather plan, and high school English resource adoption.

• Approved resolution for $3,000,000 taxable promissory note for cash flow.
• Postponed winter athletic competitions to December 1, following Tier 2 B guidelines; a motion to continue regardless of instructional model failed.
• Adopted 18 NEOLA draft policies (e.g., Board member ethics, Title I services) and retired 11 old board policies.
• Discussed 2020-21 inclement weather plan and winter sports update.
• Received benefits committee report on medical/dental cost projections.

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education's regular meeting scheduled for November 10, 2020 was cancelled due to an electrical outage at the Educational Services Center. It has been rescheduled for Thursday, November 12, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. at the ESC. Planned agenda items, including a referendum update, a $3,000,000 promissory note, winter sports discussion, and approval of NEOLA policies, will be taken up at the rescheduled meeting.

• Referendum update (discussion/information)
• Resolution authorizing up to $3,000,000 taxable tax and revenue anticipation promissory note for cash flow
• 2020-2021 inclement weather plan discussion
• Winter sports update and possible action
• Approval of multiple NEOLA draft policies and retirement of existing board policies

Benefits Committee Meeting

The School District of Janesville Benefits Committee will discuss medical cost projections, dental network insights, substitute teacher ACA benefits, and sick leave payout. No final decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion or information only.

• Medical overview and cost projection presentation by Tina Johnson and Cottingham & Butler
• Dental network insights discussion
• Substitute teacher ACA (benefits) review
• Sick leave payout discussion
• Adoption of meeting agenda (procedural)

The committee reviewed a projected 2021 health insurance cost increase of approximately $731,000. Members discussed the possibility of offering benefits to substitute teachers, but no formal action was taken on the proposal.

• Approved November 5, 2020 agenda

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education held a public hearing on the proposed 2020-2021 budget, then adopted it along with a $42,373,295 tax levy, including $9,683,688 for debt service. The board also approved the consent agenda and entered closed session to discuss contract negotiations with the Janesville Education Association.

• Public hearing on the 2020-2021 proposed district budget
• Adoption of $42,373,295 tax levy with $9,683,688 for debt service
• Relaxed board policy to allow unassigned fund balance at 16.9% (below 17%)
• Closed session for status update on Janesville Education Association contract negotiations
• Consent agenda items: resignations, appointments, early college credit applications, and annual Fund 73 report

The Board of Education adopted the 2020-2021 school district budget and the corresponding tax levy. This included a decision to relax Board Policy 3320 to allow a general fund balance of 16.9%, which is slightly below the required 17-23% range.

• Approved 2020-2021 School District budget and relaxation of Board Policy 3320 (9-0)
• Adopted 2020-2021 school tax levy of $42,373,295 (9-0)
• Specified $9,683,688 of the tax levy for long-term debt obligations (9-0)
• Approved October 27, 2020 Board of Education agenda
• Approved October 27, 2020 Consent agenda
• Approved Annual Fund 73 Report

PPC Committee Meeting

The PPC Committee will discuss and potentially recommend adoption of numerous NEOLA draft policies covering board governance, Title I services, student assessment, and more. They will also discuss the resource adoption process and the implementation of a new high school English resource.

• Review of 18 NEOLA draft policies and a Title I Parent and Family Engagement Policy for potential recommendation to full board
• Discussion on Resource Adoption Process for curriculum materials
• Discussion on Implementation of New High School English Resource
• Motion to adopt the October 26, 2020 agenda
• Safety message and announcements

The committee approved moving several NEOLA draft policies to the full Board for adoption. The meeting also included presentations on the district's resource adoption process and the implementation of new high school English resources.

• Adopted October 26, 2020 agenda (carried)
• Approved moving NEOLA Draft Policies (po0112, po0132.2, po0133, po0142.2, po0142.7, po0144.2, po144.4, po0172, po1210, po2261, po2261.01, po2261.02, po2623, po9140, and New Title I Parent and Family Engagement Policy) to the Board for adoption (carried)

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee will review the 2020-2021 school district budget and consider a motion to recommend it for approval by the full Board of Education. The agenda also includes a presentation on boiler maintenance protocols and routine procedural items.

• Review of the 2020-2021 SDJ Budget and vote on moving it to the full board for approval
• Presentation on boiler maintenance protocols by Dave Leeder
• Safety message from committee chair Greg Ardrey
• Motion to adopt the October 20, 2020 committee agenda
• Discussion of future committee meeting items and times

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee reviewed the 2020-2021 budget, which includes $6.1 million in COVID-19 grant funding. The committee voted to move the budget to the full board for final approval.

• Adopted October 20, 2020 meeting agenda (Motion Carries)
• Moved 2020-2021 Budget to the full board as presented (Motion Carries)

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education approved raising substitute teacher pay to $140 per day ($200 for assignments of 5+ consecutive days), effective October 19. They also heard a presentation on the preliminary 2020-2021 district budget, an update on equity actions, and the third Friday student count. The meeting included a closed session to discuss contract negotiations with the Janesville Education Association and personnel matters.

• Approved increase in substitute teacher pay to $140/day ($200 long-term) effective Oct 19
• Presentation of preliminary 2020-2021 district budget
• Equity actions update from Angela Lynch
• Update on 2020 Third Friday Count (student enrollment)
• Referendum update from Dan McCrea

Board of Education Meeting - REVISED

The Janesville School Board approved a resolution requiring face coverings through December 22, 2020, and approved an Early Literacy Grant. They also discussed a 2020 summer school presentation, district improvement plan targets for 2020-2021, and a referendum update. The consent agenda included resignations, appointments, a seclusion and restraint report, and financial summaries.

• Adopted resolution mandating face coverings effective Sep 22 to Dec 22, 2020
• Approved Early Literacy Grant as presented
• Presentation on 2020 Summer School by Paul Stengel
• District Improvement Plan targets for 2020-2021 school year discussed
• Updated on November 2020 referendum

The Board of Education adopted a resolution requiring mandatory face coverings for a three-month period. The Board also approved an Early Literacy Task Force Grant and several personnel appointments.

• Adopted Resolution Requiring Mandatory Face Coverings effective Sept 22 through Dec 22, 2020
• Approved Early Literacy Task Force Grant
• Approved September 22, 2020 Consent Agenda
• Approved Fiscal 2020-2021 Year-to-Date financial summaries for July and August 2020
• Approved appointments for Richard Russell, Hunter Salmon, Denise Wimann, Sharon Coogan, Jordan Koester, Joan Gard, Wesley Kutzke, Eric Randall-Clark, Kelli Schilz, Jennifer Buck, Michelle Hiteman, Kristin Rock, and Opal Hoffman

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee will discuss and vote on moving the Fiscal 2020-2021 year-to-date financial summaries (July and August 2020) to the full Board of Education for approval. They will also review energy usage, summer capital projects, a line of credit for cash flow, and budget development. A tour of the Adams Elementary School cafeteria renovation (total cost $425,000) follows the meeting.

• Action on moving July and August 2020 financial summaries to full board for approval
• Discussion on establishing a line of credit as a cash-flow backstop for lean months like November
• Update on summer 2020 capital projects and the 2020-2021 capital budget
• Tour of Adams Elementary School cafeteria renovation, bid secured by Gilbank Construction for $425,000
• Review of fourth quarter Fiscal 2019-2020 energy usage compared to 2018-19

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee approved moving the fiscal 2020-2021 year-to-date financial summaries to the Full Board for approval. The committee also reviewed energy usage reductions and the status of summer maintenance projects.

• Adopted September 16, 2020 agenda (Motion Carries)
• Approved moving July and August 2020 Financial Summaries to Full Board (Motion Carries)

Board of Education Meeting

The Janesville School Board will consider approving a contract amendment with Van Galder transportation. The board will also receive updates on DPI waivers and food service, an overview of distance learning, and a referendum update. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, resignations, appointments, and the annual emergency nursing services report.

• Consider approval of contract amendment with Van Galder (transportation)
• Overview of distance learning expectations
• Superintendent update on 2020-21 DPI waivers and food service
• Referendum update on project list
• Consent agenda items: minutes, resignations, appointments, emergency nursing report

The Board of Education approved a contract amendment with the Van Galder transportation company. The board also approved the August 11 consent agenda, including several staff appointments and the 2019-2020 Annual Emergency Nursing Services Report.

• Approved Van Galder Contract Amendment (9-0)
• Approved August 11, 2020 Consent Agenda
• Approved August 25, 2020 Regular Board Meeting minutes
• Approved 2019-2020 Annual Emergency Nursing Services Report (9-0)
• Accepted resignation of Melissa Matzke effective September 16, 2020
• Approved 33 certified staff appointments effective between August 20 and September 2, 2020

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education will discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the 2020-2021 operating budget, an update on fall athletics, and a referendum update. They will also approve a consent agenda including resignations, appointments, and financial summaries. A closed session is scheduled for personnel and litigation matters.

• Presentation on COVID-19's impact on 2020-2021 operating budget
• Update on 2020 fall athletics
• Referendum update
• Approval of resignations and retirements
• Approval of fiscal 2019-2020 year-to-date financial summaries

The Board of Education approved the consent agenda, which included several certified staff appointments and the resignation of one employee. The board also approved the fiscal 2019-2020 year-to-date financial summaries through June 2020.

• Approved August 25, 2020 Board of Education agenda
• Approved August 11, 2020 Regular Board Meeting minutes
• Accepted certified staff resignation of Alissa Shere
• Approved certified staff appointments for 18 individuals
• Approved June 2020 financial summaries (Revenues: $43,422,865; Expenditures: $30,703,169)

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education approved issuing up to $22.5 million in general obligation bonds and a resolution to exceed the state revenue cap for four years, reaching $14.5 million by 2024-25. They also adopted several NEOLA draft policies including a new Equity Non-Negotiables Policy, approved staff resignations and appointments, and discussed a financial forecast and facilities needs. An item on a referendum election was listed but no action is recorded in the provided agenda.

• Approved initial resolution for $22.5 million in general obligation bonds (4.2)
• Approved resolution to exceed revenue cap: $3.5M (2021-22) to $14.5M (2024-25) (4.3)
• Adopted NEOLA draft policies including Title IX, conflict of interest, staff ethics, and a new Equity Non-Negotiables Policy (2.5, 3.3, 3.4)
• Approved staff resignations, retirements, and appointments (2.3, 2.4)
• Discussed financial forecast and facilities needs review with referendum considerations (4.1)

The Board of Education approved a referendum election regarding the issuance of general obligation bonds and a resolution to exceed the district's revenue cap. The board also approved several NEOLA draft policies and the August 11, 2020 agenda.

• Approved issuance of General Obligation Bonds not to exceed $22,500,000 (9-0)
• Approved resolution to exceed revenue cap for four years from 2021-22 to 2024-25 (9-0)
• Approved referendum election for the $22.5M bond issuance and revenue cap increase (9-0)
• Approved August 11, 2020 Board of Education agenda
• Approved August 4, 2020 Special Board Meeting minutes
• Approved NEOLA Draft Policies including Conflict of Interest, Title IX, and Staff Ethics
• Approved retiring Board Policies BP 4120 and BP 4150

PPC Committee Meeting

The PPC Committee will hold a meeting to discuss and potentially advance several draft policies to the full School Board. Key items include a presentation on a draft Equity Non-Negotiables Policy and a review of eight NEOLA policies covering conflict of interest, Title IX, staff ethics, and personnel records. The committee may vote to move these policies to the full board for adoption.

• Presentation on draft Equity Non-Negotiables Policy
• Review and possible action on eight NEOLA draft policies including Title IX, conflict of interest, and personnel records
• Motion to adopt meeting agenda

Special Board of Education Meeting

The School District of Janesville Board of Education is holding a special meeting to review community survey results regarding a possible referendum. The board will also consider consent agenda items including approval of previous meeting minutes, resignations/retirements, and appointments.

• Community survey results on a possible referendum presented by Donovan Group
• Approval of consent agenda including minutes from July 14 regular meeting
• Resignations/retirements and appointments of staff
• Safety message related to COVID-19 precautions
• Adoption of meeting agenda and adjournment

The Board of Education reviewed survey results from 1,870 community members regarding district needs and a proposed tax increase. No final decision on the referendum was made; the board will address referendum resolutions at the August 11, 2020 meeting.

• Approved August 4, 2020 meeting agenda
• Approved Consent Agenda, including July 14, 2020 meeting minutes
• Accepted certified staff resignation of Alison Ewing effective July 16, 2020
• Approved certified staff appointments of Sarah Bleicher, Marley Campbell, Brooke Maunane, Alyssa Peterson, and Emma Ryan effective August 18, 2020

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education approved the 2020-2021 Re-Entry to School Plan and fall sports programming for the upcoming school year. They also discussed the District Improvement Plan results, an update on CARES Act funding, and district-wide facilities planning. Consent agenda items included approval of minutes, resignations/retirements, appointments, academic standards, a technology lease for Chromebooks, and end-of-year budget transfers.

• Approved 2020-2021 Re-Entry to School Plan (Fall 2020)
• Approved offering Fall Sports for 2020-2021 school year
• Approved technology lease for Chromebooks and PCs
• Approved end-of-year (2019-2020) budget transfers and amendments
• Discussed CARES Act funding update

The Board approved a re-entry plan for the 2020-2021 school year offering face-to-face, virtual, and hybrid learning options. The Board also approved the offering of Fall 2020 sports programming. Additionally, the consent agenda was approved, covering personnel changes and budget transfers.

• Approved 2020-2021 Re-Entry to School Plan (8-0)
• Approved offering Fall Sports Programming for 2020-2021 school year (8-0)
• Approved July 14, 2020 Consent Agenda (9-0)
• Approved June 23, 2020 Regular Board Meeting minutes (9-0)
• Approved certified staff retirement of Sara Ganyard and resignations of Amber Buxton, Jing Gao, and Nicole Hilbelink (9-0)
• Approved certified staff appointments for 11 individuals (9-0)
• Approved Annual Declaration and Parent Notice of Student Academic Standards for 2020-2021 (9-0)
• Approved technology lease for Chromebooks and PCs and end-of-year budget transfers (9-0)

Board of Education Meeting

The Board will consider a consent agenda including approval of the superintendent's 2020-2021 contract, adoption of NEOLA policies, and renewal of insurance carriers. The main item is a presentation and discussion on the Health and Safety Reopening Draft Plan for returning to school during COVID-19. Reports from the Personnel/Policy/Curriculum Committee include a central athletic coordinator proposal, annual academic & career plan review, and elementary math adoption update.

• Approve Superintendent's 2020-2021 contract
• Adopt NEOLA draft policies (14 policies covering board governance, meetings, student government, insurance)
• Approve property, liability, and workers compensation insurance carriers for FY 2020-2021
• Presentation: Health and Safety Reopening Draft Plan (15 min.)
• Review Central Athletic Coordinator proposal

The Board approved over $1.25 million for capital maintenance projects and allocated year-end funds to specific accounts. The Board also appointed an Independent Hearing Officer and approved several new district policies. A draft plan for reopening schools in the fall was presented, with a final decision expected by July 14.

• Approved $1,255,000 for Capital Maintenance Projects
• Approved contributing $2M to Fund 73 and $1.6M to Fund 46
• Appointed Sara Gehrig-Woodman as Independent Hearing Officer for 2020-2021
• Approved Resolution authorizing an Independent Hearing Officer (IHO)
• Approved Superintendent's 2020-2021 Contract
• Adopted NEOLA Draft Policies (po0111 through po8760)
• Retired Board Policies (BP 8200 through BP 5410)
• Approved Property, Liability and Workers Compensation Carriers for 2020-2021

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee reviewed year-to-date financial summaries, insurance rates, capital maintenance plans, and fund balance allocations. The committee voted to move the May financials, insurance rates, and year-end fund balance allocations to the full school board for approval. Also discussed were a proposed remodel of Adams Elementary cafeteria and kitchen, and an update on the Community Financial Advisory Committee exploring a potential operating or capital referendum.

• Motion carried to move Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date (May 2020) financial summaries to the full board.
• Motion carried to move 2020-2021 property, liability and workers compensation insurance rates to the full board.
• Motion carried to move administration's recommended year-end fund balance allocations to the full board.
• Presentation and review of proposed Adams Elementary cafeteria and kitchen remodel, with costs split between Fund 10 (one third) and Fund 50 (two thirds).
• Update on Community Financial Advisory Committee (CFAC), the first step in community engagement for a potential operating or capital referendum.

The committee approved moving several financial recommendations to the full board, including a new insurance plan with projected net savings of $66,000. Members also recommended allocating year-end funds to OPEB and capital maintenance accounts. A $1.5M capital improvement plan and a $300,000 cafeteria remodel were reviewed for upcoming board approval.

• Approved moving Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date Financial Summaries to Full Board
• Approved moving insurance recommendations (Tricor/EMC and Gallagher/RAS) to Full Board
• Approved moving Year-End Fund Balance Allocations to Full Board
• Proposed $2M contribution to Fund 73 and $1.6M to Fund 46 from unspent funds
• Reviewed $1.5M Capital Maintenance and Improvement Plan for June 23 board meeting
• Reviewed $300,000 Adams Cafeteria and Kitchen Remodel for June 23 board meeting

PPC Committee Meeting

The PPC Committee will discuss several district initiatives, including a proposal for a Central Athletic Coordinator and updates to the Academic & Career Plan and Elementary Math adoption. Committee members will review draft NEOLA policies and decide whether to move two items—authorizing an Independent Hearing Officer and recommending Sara Gehrig‑Woodman for that role—to the full Board for approval. All items are presented for discussion and possible action at the June 15, 2020 meeting.

• Review Central Athletic Coordinator proposal (job description attached)
• Review Annual Academic & Career Plan (multiple reports attached)
• Update on Elementary Math adoption (resource adoption document attached)
• Review NEOLA draft policies (various board policy drafts attached)
• Consider moving resolution to authorize an Independent Hearing Officer for 2020‑21 to the full Board

The committee approved moving 15 NEOLA draft policies and a resolution for an Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) to the full board for adoption. It also recommended the appointment of Sara Gehrig-Woodman as the IHO for the 2020-2021 school year. A proposal for a centralized Athletic Coordinator remains on hold due to budget constraints.

• Approved moving 15 NEOLA draft policies to the full board for adoption
• Approved moving resolution for an Independent Hearing Officer (IHO) for 2020-2021 to the full board
• Approved moving recommendation to appoint Sara Gehrig-Woodman as IHO to the full board
• Adopted June 15, 2020 agenda
• Centralized Athletic Coordinator position placed on hold due to budgetary unknowns

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education met to discuss a framework for Fall 2020 and district facilities planning. The meeting included the adoption of a resolution regarding school district bonds and the welcome of a new principal.

• Resolution authorizing the defeasance of $37,735,000 in General Obligation Refunding Bonds
• Presentation of the Framework for Fall 2020
• Welcome of Scott Garner as the new Marshall Middle School Principal
• Update on District-Wide Facilities Planning

The Board of Education approved a resolution regarding the defeasance of a portion of $37,735,000 in general obligation refunding bonds. The Board also approved a consent agenda including staff resignations and appointments. Discussions were held regarding fall 2020 school re-entry scenarios and district-wide facilities planning.

• Adopted Defeasance Resolution for $37,735,000 General Obligation Refunding Bonds (8-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including May 26, 2020 meeting minutes
• Approved certified staff resignations of Callie Johnson, Jillian Malkow, Amanda Rogers, Abigail Roth, Alyson Sieger, and Greg Doyle
• Approved certified staff appointments of Sarah Austin, McKenna Hemker, Jessica Kenny, Maggie Knutson, Matthew Knutson, Brooke Schwartz, Katie Severson, Laura Suiter, Jessica Severance, and Nathan Wallman

Board of Education Meeting

The Board of Education is reviewing several Neola draft policies and discussing updates to student cell phone use and digital classroom language. The meeting also includes a review of distance learning survey results and a co-curricular study update.

• Adoption of various Neola policies regarding virtual meetings, employment, and weapons
• Retirement of board policies BP 2120, BP 4131, BP 4139, BP 4211, and BP 6311
• Review of 2020-2021 Parent/Student Handbooks
• Discussion of distance learning survey results
• Review of Fiscal 2019-2020 year-to-date financial summaries

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting

The committee voted to advance year-to-date April 2020 financial summaries to the full board for approval. Members also reviewed third-quarter energy usage, discussed a plan to defease debt to capture state aid, and examined the district's financial forecast model in light of COVID-19.

• Approved moving April 2020 financial summaries to full board for approval
• Reviewed third-quarter energy usage results for district facilities
• Discussed debt defeasance plan to prepay debt and capture state aid
• Reviewed district's financial forecast model and WI Policy Forum article on COVID-19 impact

The committee approved moving the Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date financial summaries to the full board for approval. Members discussed projected budget shortfalls ranging from $700K in 2020-21 to $14.7M by 2024-2025. The committee also reviewed energy usage and debt defeasance.

• Adopted May 19, 2020 agenda (3-0)
• Approved moving Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date (April 2020) Financial Summaries to full board (3-0)

PPC Committee Meeting - Virtual Meeting

The School District of Janesville PPC Committee met virtually on May 18, 2020. Members authorized the virtual meeting format, approved the Student Cellphone Use language for the 2020‑2021 Parent/Student Handbook, and moved multiple draft policies, a revised School Improvement Plan, and revised Standards of Professional Behavior to the full board for approval. All motions carried with unanimous votes.

• Motion to authorize the virtual meeting, virtual voting, and adopt the agenda (passed).
• Approve moving Student Cellphone Use/Digital Classroom language to the full board for the 2020‑2021 handbook (passed).
• Approve moving NEOLA draft policies (including virtual meetings/voting, employment, nondiscrimination, weapons, etc.) to the full board for consent agenda (passed).
• Approve moving the revised School Improvement Plan/District Improvement Plan allocation plan for 2019‑2020 to the full board (motion presented).
• Approve moving the revised Standards of Professional Behavior to the full board for approval (passed).

The PPC Committee approved moving several items to the full board, including student cellphone use language for the 2020-2021 handbook and various NEOLA draft policies. The committee also advanced the 2019-2020 SIP/DIP Allocation Plan and revised Standards of Professional Behavior for board approval.

• Approved moving Student Cellphone Use / Digital Classroom Language to full board (3-0)
• Approved moving 16 NEOLA Draft Policies to full board for May 26, 2020 consent agenda (3-0)
• Approved moving 2019-2020 SIP/DIP Allocation Plan recommendation to full board (3-0)
• Approved moving revised Standards of Professional Behavior to full board (3-0)
• Authorized virtual meeting and voting and adopted May 18, 2020 agenda (3-0)

Board of Education Meeting - Virtual Meeting

The School District of Janesville Board of Education held a virtual meeting on May 12, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The board approved a consent agenda including resignations, appointments, and two recurring grants for transition readiness and homeless youth. They also approved the 2020-2021 student fees, the 2019-2020 end-of-year schedule, and the board meeting schedule for the next school year. Updates were given on virtual summer school, the International Education Program, athletic director position, and staffing.

• Approved Recurring Transition Readiness Grant
• Approved Recurring Education for Homeless Children and Youth Grant
• Update on 2020 Virtual Summer School
• Approved 2020-2021 Student Fees
• Approved 2019-2020 End-of-Year Schedule

The Board of Education approved the student fee structure and meeting schedule for the 2020-2021 school year. The board also approved the 2019-2020 end-of-year schedule and two recurring grants.

• Approved 2020-2021 Student Fees (8-0)
• Approved 2020-2021 Board of Education meeting schedule (9-0)
• Approved 2019-2020 End-of-Year schedule (9-0)
• Approved April 12, 2020 Consent Agenda (9-0)
• Approved Recurring Transition Readiness Grant (9-0)
• Approved Recurring Education for Homeless Children and Youth Grant (9-0)
• Approved remote participation and voting authority for May 12 meeting (9-0)

Board of Education Meeting - Virtual Meeting

The School District of Janesville Board of Education will hold a public hearing on a request to the Wisconsin DPI to waive required instructional hours for the 2019-2020 school year because of the COVID-19 public health emergency. The regular meeting includes reorganization of board officers and approval of a consent agenda with staff resignations, appointments, and non-renewal notices.

• Public hearing on DPI waiver for instructional hours due to COVID-19
• Reorganization of Board of Education to elect officers
• Consider approval of consent agenda including resignations, retirements, and appointments of certified staff
• Authorization to send final non-renewal notices to certified staff (not performance related)
• Approve appointment of Dan McCrea as Assistant Board Treasurer and Debra Weston as Assistant District Clerk

The Board of Education approved a request to the DPI to waive required instructional hours for the 2019-2020 school year due to the COVID-19 emergency. The board also elected its officers and approved new healthcare and dental plans. Personnel changes and financial summaries were approved via the consent agenda.

• Authorized application to DPI for 2019-2020 instructional hours waiver (8-0)
• Elected Steve Huth as President, Jim Millard as Vice President, Michelle Haworth as Clerk, and Greg Ardrey as Treasurer
• Approved Healthcare Plan effective July 1, 2020 (8-0)
• Approved Dental Plan effective July 1, 2020 (8-0)
• Approved February and March 2020 financial summaries (8-0)
• Approved resignation of Colleen Kaspar effective June 5, 2020 (8-0)
• Approved non-renewal of Kelly Hausknecht, Matthew Message, and Rebecca Mills effective June 5, 2020 (8-0)
• Approved JPMorgan Chase, N.A., Wisconsin Local Government Investment Pool, and Wisconsin Investment Services Cooperative as official depositories (8-0)

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting - VIRTUAL MEETING

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee of the School District of Janesville held a virtual meeting on April 23, 2020. They approved moving the Fiscal 2019-2020 year-to-date financial summaries (February and March 2020) to the full board for approval. The committee also received an update on district-wide facilities planning, reviewed the district's financial forecast model, and discussed aspects of a potential operational referendum.

• Approved moving Fiscal 2019-2020 YTD financial summaries (Feb/Mar 2020) to full board
• Discussion on district-wide facilities planning update
• Review of district's financial forecast model
• Presentation on understanding operational referendum aspects
• Virtual meeting held under COVID-19 emergency procedures

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee approved the Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date financial summaries for February and March 2020 for full board approval. Members also discussed district-wide facilities security planning and the potential for a future operational referendum to address projected budget deficits.

• Approved remote meeting participation and voting authority (3-0)
• Approved moving Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date (February and March 2020) Financial Summaries to the full board (3-0)

Board of Education Meeting - Virtual Meeting

The Janesville School Board met virtually on April 14, 2020, to approve several consent agenda items, including staff resignations and non-renewals, and to discuss or vote on multiple board items. Key actions included approving a new Marshall Middle School principal, a lease for iPads for elementary students, and the 2020-2021 staffing plan. The board also received an update on virtual learning and budget projections, but a resolution granting emergency decision-making authority to the superintendent failed.

• Approved Henry Schmelz as Marshall Middle School principal effective July 1, 2020
• Approved four-year iPad lease with Providence Capital Network for elementary students
• Approved the 2020-2021 enrollment-driven staffing plan
• Discussed virtual learning and 2020-2021 budget projections
• Resolution granting emergency decision-making authority to superintendent (April 14 – June 8) failed

The Board of Education approved the 2020-2021 Enrollment Driven Staffing Plan and a four-year lease for elementary student iPads. The board also appointed a new principal for Marshall Middle School and processed several staff resignations and non-renewals. A resolution to grant emergency decision-making authority was denied.

• Approved 2020-2021 Enrollment Driven Staffing Plan (9-0)
• Approved four-year lease for iPads and equipment with Providence Capital Network (9-0)
• Approved appointment of Henry Schmelz as Marshall Middle School Principal (9-0)
• Approved preliminary non-renewal notices for Kelly Hausknecht, Matthew Message, and Rebecca Mills (9-0)
• Approved final non-renewal notices for Katherine Casler, Amer Feible, Joseph Liberman, Amy Pakes, Kristin Rock, and Fawn Straus (9-0)
• Approved resignations of 10 certified staff members (9-0)
• Denied resolution granting emergency decision-making authority (1-7-1)
• Approved remote meeting participation and voting authority (9-0)

Board of Education Meeting

The Janesville School Board will consider approving a finalized Referendum Principles Document for district-wide facilities planning, and also vote on creating an Operations Manager position in the School Nutrition Department effective 2020-2021. The board will also accept a Hendricks Family Foundation Grant and receive a presentation on the Early Literacy Task Force. A closed session is scheduled for healthcare negotiations.

• Consider approval of finalized Referendum Principles Document for district-wide facilities planning
• Consider approval of Operations Manager position in School Nutrition Department (2020-2021)
• Consider acceptance of Hendricks Family Foundation Grant
• Presentation: Early Literacy Task Force
• Closed session for healthcare negotiations

The Board of Education approved the addition of an Operations Manager position for the School Nutrition Department for the 2020-2021 school year. The board also approved a grant from the Hendricks Family Foundation and a finalized referendum principles document.

• Approved addition of Operations Manager Position (School Nutrition Department) for 2020-2021
• Approved Hendricks Family Foundation Grant
• Approved Finalized Referendum Principles Document dated March 3, 2020
• Approved March 10, 2020 Board of Education agenda
• Approved January 14, 2020 Consent agenda

Board of Education Workshop

The Janesville Board of Education will hold a workshop at Adams Elementary School. After opening procedures, the board will tour school facilities and participate in a guided workshop on guiding principles. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled.

• Facilities tour (discussion, 60 min)
• Guiding principles workshop (discussion, 60 min)
• Consider adoption of the March 3, 2020 agenda (action)
• Meet/greet from 5:00-5:30 p.m.
• Adjournment

Board of Education Meeting

The Janesville School Board approved the consent agenda, which included implementation of Compensation Study Phase 3, preliminary non-renewal notices for administrators, and adoption of new NEOLA policies. The board also discussed an enrollment study report and the instructional technology program. Action was taken to approve the 2020-2021 high school bell schedule and the 2020 summer school program.

• Approved 2020-2021 high school bell schedule
• Approved implementation of Compensation Study Phase 3
• Authorized preliminary notice of non-renewal for administrators (not related to performance)
• Adopted NEOLA policies on conflict of interest, FMLA, and controversial issues
• Approved 2020 summer school program

The Board of Education approved the high school bell schedule for the 2020-2021 school year. A consent agenda was passed covering personnel appointments, policy updates, and financial summaries. The board also received presentations on student programs and a district enrollment study.

• Approved 2020-2021 high school bell schedule
• Approved February 25, 2020 Consent Agenda (7-0)
• Appointed Katherine Casler to certified staff position effective February 17, 2020
• Approved NEOLA policies regarding Conflict of Interest, FMLA, and Classroom Issues
• Retired Board Policies BP 8261 and BP 6021
• Approved implementation of Compensation Study Phase 3 Recommendation
• Authorized preliminary non-renewal notices for six certified staff limited-term positions effective June 5, 2020
• Approved 2020 Summer School

Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee Meeting

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee will review the district's financial summaries through January 2020 and consider approving them for full board action. They will also discuss budget transfers and amendments, debt service payments, energy usage, facility maintenance projects, and a revenue/expenditure forecast model. No final board decisions are made at this committee meeting.

• Presentation of fiscal 2019-2020 year-to-date financial summaries (December 2019 and January 2020) and consideration of approval to move to full board
• Review of 2019-2020 budget transfers and amendments to date and consideration of approval to move to full board
• Update on March 1, 2020 debt service payments for refinanced Fund 38 debt and regularly scheduled Fund 39 debt
• Review of first and second quarter fiscal 2019-2020 energy usage results by facility
• Review of facility maintenance project listing developed by Sitelogic (formerly Unesco) with cost analysis

The Finance/Buildings & Grounds Committee approved moving the fiscal 2019-2020 year-to-date financial summaries and budget transfers/amendments to the full board for final approval. The committee also reviewed energy usage, fund balances, and a facility maintenance report.

• Approved moving fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date Financial Summaries to full board (Motion Carries)
• Approved moving 2019-2020 Budget Transfers and Amendments to full board (Motion Carries)
• Adopted February 20, 2020 meeting agenda (Motion Carries)

Board of Education Meeting

The board approved consent agenda items including resignations and early college credit, and approved employee handbook language on reductions/elimination of positions. A 60-minute presentation on district-wide facilities history and projected needs was discussed. The board also reviewed the proposed 2020-2021 high school bell schedule and draft NEOLA policies.

• Approved employee handbook Section 5 on reductions/elimination of positions (effective immediately)
• Discussed proposed 2020-2021 high school bell schedule
• Heard presentation on district facilities history and projected needs (60 min)
• Reviewed draft NEOLA policies (Conflict of Interest, FMLA, Controversial Issues, etc.)
• Discussed health and dental trends from Benefits Committee

The Board of Education approved updated language for Section 5 of the Employee Handbook regarding the reduction or elimination of positions. The board also approved the consent agenda, which included staff retirements and appointments. A presentation was given on the age and maintenance needs of the district's 19 buildings.

• Approved Employee Handbook Language Section 5: Reductions and/or Elimination of Positions as presented in the February 3, 2020 draft
• Denied original motion to approve November 2019 draft of Employee Handbook Section 5 (0-8)
• Denied amendment to replace section 5.04 with Recall Process document (0-8)
• Approved February 11, 2020 Consent Agenda
• Approved certified staff retirements of 11 employees effective June 5, 2020
• Approved certified staff appointments of Renita Garner, Amber Feibel, and Fawn Straus
• Approved early college credit for summer classes

PPC Committee Meeting

The PPC Committee will review a proposed high school bell schedule for the 2020‑2021 school year. The meeting also includes a Human Growth & Development Committee report, a discussion on remote and board member meeting attendance policies, a review of draft language in the employee handbook regarding position reductions, and a review of NEOLA draft policies. No final decisions are recorded in the agenda.

• Proposed 2020‑2021 High School Bell Schedule (discussion)
• Human Growth & Development Committee Report (information)
• Discussion of remote meeting attendance and board member attendance policies (possible action)
• Review of Employee Handbook draft Section 5 on reductions or elimination of positions (action)
• Review of NEOLA draft policies (conflict of interest, FMLA, classroom issues, employee expression) (action)

The committee recommended moving draft language for employee position reductions and six NEOLA policies to the full board for approval. Members also agreed that a proposed eight-period high school bell schedule for 2020-21 is appropriate and directed administration to research remote meeting attendance options.

• Recommended Employee Handbook Section 5 (Reductions/Elimination of Positions) for full board approval
• Recommended NEOLA policies po0144.3, po1630.01, po2240, po3430.01, po3310, and po4430.01 for full board approval
• Agreed that the proposed 2020-21 eight-period high school bell schedule makes sense
• Directed administration to develop language and options for remote board meeting attendance
• Adopted February 4, 2020 PPC Committee Meeting Agenda

Benefits Committee Meeting

The Benefits Committee will meet to discuss a presentation on health and dental insurance trends from Cottingham & Butler. The committee will also handle procedural items including adopting the agenda, a safety message, and announcements. No decisions are scheduled; the meeting is primarily informational.

• Discussion: Health and Dental Trends presentation by Cottingham & Butler
• Motion to adopt the January 29, 2020 Benefits Committee meeting agenda
• Safety message
• Announcements and updates
• Next meeting and adjournment

The committee reviewed healthcare cost scenarios and dental plan data for upcoming contract renewals. Members discussed various marketing strategies to manage costs, including H.S.A. seeding and premium shares. No formal votes were taken on benefit changes.

• Adopted the January 29, 2020 meeting agenda

Board of Education Meeting

The board will consider and approve several action items, including the adoption of budget assumptions for the 2020-2021 school year and the approval of audited financial statements for fiscal 2018-2019. They will also set open enrollment spaces for the upcoming year, discuss an attendance pilot at Jackson Elementary, and go into closed session for expulsion, personnel, and contract negotiations.

• Approval of fiscal 2018-2019 audited financial statements
• Adoption of 2020-2021 budget assumptions
• Approval of space available for open enrollment applicants (2020-2021)
• Consent agenda includes resignations/retirements and appointments
• Approval of David Adler as Franklin Middle School assistant principal

The Board of Education approved the 2018-2019 audited financial statements and the budget development assumptions for 2020-2021. The board also made decisions regarding open enrollment capacity and administrative staffing.

• Approved Fiscal 2018-2019 Audited Financial Statements (Motion Carries)
• Approved 2020-2021 Budget Development Assumptions (Motion Carries)
• Approved all regular education open enrollment space for 2020-2021; denied special education space except for speech and language only students
• Approved David Adler as Franklin Middle School Assistant Principal effective January 21, 2020 (Motion Carries)
• Approved suspending the two-reading requirement of Board Policy 8530 specifically for the initial adoption of NEOLA Policies (Motion Carries)
• Approved January 28, 2020 Consent Agenda including staff resignations and appointments (Motion Carries)
• Approved January 14, 2020 Closed Session Minutes

Board of Education Meeting

The Janesville School Board will hold a 60-minute discussion on district-wide facilities planning, review 2020-21 budget assumptions, and consider boundary line enrollment trends. The board voted to postpone action on employee handbook language regarding position reductions to February 11, 2020. A closed session is scheduled to review an expulsion decision and approve previous closed session minutes.

• 60-minute discussion on district-wide facilities planning with Donovan Group presentation
• Discussion of 2020-21 budget assumptions
• Review of boundary line committee status: enrollment trends and transportation impact
• Postponed approval of Employee Handbook Section 5 on reductions/elimination of positions to February 11, 2020
• Board voted to send delegate Ardrey unencumbered to 2020 WASB Convention

The Board of Education postponed a decision on updating the Employee Handbook's section on position reductions and recalls to allow for further language revisions. The board also approved a consent agenda including staff changes and financial summaries.

• Approved January 14, 2020 agenda
• Approved Consent Agenda including resignations of Robyn Droessler, Nicole Walter, and Brett Berg
• Approved appointments of Jessica Alami, Ebony Dunkin, and Renita Garner
• Approved December 10 and December 17, 2019 meeting minutes
• Approved Fiscal 2019-2020 Year-to-Date (November 2019) Financial Summaries
• Postponed vote on Employee Handbook Language Section 5 until February 11, 2020
• Approved sending delegate Greg Ardrey unencumbered to the 2020 WASB State Education Convention