May 14, 2007
Board approves preliminary drawings

Preliminary drawings for the two fastest-growing elementary schools in USD 308 as well as the new Hutchinson High School Vocational Center were approved Monday (May 14, 2007) by the Board of Education. Additionally, the Board was updated on the status of preliminary plans for renovations and additions at Hutchinson High School.

Since January, the DLR Group has been meeting with community groups and staff about improvements and new construction at the facilities. Charettes, meetings between the architects, staff and community, have been conducted to fine tune concept drawings that were used in the bond issue.

Monday's motions also allow the projects at the Vocational Center, Wiley Elementary School and Morgan Elementary School to move to the design phase.

Hutchinson USD 308 voters approved the $78.8 million bond issue Nov. 7, 2006.

The first physical changes will occur west of the North Gym at HHS in July when demolition occurs on apartments the district has purchased for the new Vocational Academy. Actual construction will begin in the third quarter of 2007.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board approved a new counseling program for the district's eight elementary schools. The counseling program is based on state and national guidelines and mirrors the program offered at Hutchinson High School and Hutchinson Middle School.

In another student well-being move, the district approved the new wellness policy implementation plan. The plan, driven by federal guidelines, provides a road map for healthy foods, nutrition education and exercise within the district.

In other action, the Board:

• Heard a Baldrige Moment from Avenue A Elementary School.
• Approved instrumental music purchases totaling $14,995.
• Approved bids for the following district projects and purchases: two pickup trucks, one mower, six mini-vans, concrete and carpet.
• Approved summer maintenance projects.
• Approved changes to the district health insurance plan.
• Declared a shrink wrap machine in the Printing Department at HHS Vocational Center as surplus property and approved it for sale.
• Approved Resolution No. 2007-037 to allow the district to participate in the Medora Day School for special needs students next fall. The resolution is an update of one signed earlier but was altered at the request of the Kansas Attorney General's office.
• Held executive sessions, totaling 30 minutes, to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations.
• Approved Resolution No. 2007-35 that reversed a previous resolution that non-renewed the contract of Norma Exposito as a district teacher.

Personnel

The district approved the following personnel changes.

Certified

Hired

• Phil Anderson, Head Coach Boys' Basketball, Hutchinson Middle School
• Tina Beeghly, Kindergarten, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen
• Bradley Binns, Social Studies, Hutchinson High School
• Daniel Cocking, Special Education - LD, Hutchinson Middle School - 8
• Kay Gilmore, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Vickie Sorenson, Special Education, Hutchinson High School
• Brenda Stegman  , Math, Hutchinson High School
• Carol Stockton, Grade 2, Wiley Elementary School
• Shannon Stuckert, Summer Scholars Principal, Faris Elementary School
• Andrea Urban, Science, Hutchinson Middle School – 7
• Nancy Birgen, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Kimberly Perrone, Grade 3, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen
• Verna Ploutz, School Counselor, Wiley and Faris Elementary Schools
• Amy Tolle, Vocal Music, Wiley Elementary School

Resignations

• Chris Allen, Math, Hutchinson High School
• Chris Allen, Assistant Coach Football, Hutchinson High School
• Chris Allen, Assistant Coach Wrestling, Hutchinson High School
• Chris Allen, Assistant Coach Track, Hutchinson Middle School
• Paul Erickson, Grade 3, Lincoln Elementary School
• Paul Erickson, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Don Wilkins, Rule X - Assistant Coach Boys' Basketball, Hutchinson High School
• Teresa Witt, Special Education, Hutchinson High School
• Terrilyn Justice, Head Start Teacher, Hutcherson Center
• Lana Vogts, English, Hutchinson High School
• Letha Warner, Assistant Prinicipal, McCandless Elementary School
• Tayle Wilson, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School

Position Changes, From, To

• Ted Webster, Head Coach Boys' Basketball/HMS, Assistant Coach Boys' Basketball/HHS
• Clint Rodriguez, Grade 3/Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen, Science/HMS-8
• Jean Gaeddert, Grade 3/Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen, Title I/Avenue A

Classified

Hired

• Marlene Castor, Title 1 Educational Aide, Lincoln
• Laurie Woelk, Elementary Secretary, Faris Elementary, effective 2007-08 School Year
• Janice Allen, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, Head Start
• Rae Cuda, Para Substitute, Faris Elementary School
• Tabetha Gray, Educational Aide, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen
• Jessica Howard, Day Care Substitute, HHS Day Care
• Gary Johanning, Custodian, HHS
• Kevin Moss, Custodian, HHS

Resignations

• Charlene "Vikki" Smith, Food Service Bookkeeper, Warehouse, effective 5/18/07
• Tammy Leckliter, Head Start Teacher/Bus Aide, Hutcherson Center/Nickerson, effective 5/25/07

Termination

• Leesa Bedoe, Hearing Impaired Para, Wiley, effective 5/10/07

Retirement

• Verna Rickett, Middle School Secretary, HMS-7, effective 6/07/07
• Patricia Story, Educational Aide, Avenue A, effective 6/1/07

Gifts to Schools

The Board formally accepted the following gifts to schools.

• $300 from the Hutchinson Community Foundation to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen for its Reading is Fundamental Program.
• 45 dictionaries, valued at $89.55, from the Noon Optimists Club to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen for its fourth graders.
• $300 from the Hutchinson Community Foundation to Avenue A Elementary Schoolfor its Reading is Fundamental Program.
• $1,500 from the Rotary Club of Hutchinson for the USD 308 Dental Fund to help students who cannot afford dental care.
• $191.72 from Target to Lincoln Elementary School from Target's Take Charge of Education Program.
• $399.40 from Kiwanis Club to Lincoln Elementary School for a Bal-a-vis-x starter kit for fourth grade.
• 34 dictionaries, valued at $34, from the Hutchinson Noon Optimists Club for the fourth grade class at Lincoln Elementary School.
• $300 from the Charles E. Carey Memorial Fund for the Reading is Fundamental Program at Lincoln Elementary School.
• $192.50 from Lifetouch National School Studios for student activities at Lincoln Elementary School.

Next Meeting

The next special meeting of the Board will be at 7 p.m. May 21 in the Administration Center to consider a replacement for David Hindman, a Board member who died in a home accident earlier this year. The next regular meeting of the Board will be June 11.

April 23, 2007
Board approves succession plan

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (April 23, 2007) approved a plan designed to provide continuous, quality leadership and staffing into the future.

Known as a succession plan, the plan takes a look at the desirable qualities of leadership in the district and all staff. Staffing changes annually because of retirements and individuals leaving the district for other employment.

In 2007, for example, 10 district administrators would qualify for retirement under the state's KPERS system. Of those four will retire. Additionally, a total of 47 district staff have reached retirement eligibility in 2007 with another 49 eligible to retire by 2010.

The Board also set into motion the process for appointing an individual to fill out the final two years of David Hindman's tenure on the Board. Hindman died Feb. 24 in an accident at his home.

The Board will publish a notice of the vacancy in The Hutchinson News, requesting individuals who are interested in filling the unexpired term to make an application for the position. Applications mailed into the district must be received in the district's Administration Center by 5 p.m. May 14. Applications that are brought into the Administration Center must be delivered by noon May 15. Board members will interview individuals interested in the position at a special Board meeting at 7 p.m. on May 21.

Applicants must be 18 years of age, be registered voters and live in USD 308.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

• Received a report on the supplementary salary schedule for 2007-08.
• Received a report on suggested improvements from the district's Purchasing Committee.
• Approved a summer food service program agreement with the Kansas State Department of Education.
• Approved renewal of memberships in the Kansas Association of School Boards and in KASB's Legal Assistance Fund.
• Approved bids from Kansas Contract Design for lunchroom tables at Avenue A and Morgan Elementary schools.
• Approved a contract for services with Mary Ann Brennan, a certified Baldrige examiner, to work with the USD 308 Baldrige writing team as it prepares the final draft of the district's Baldrige application.
• Approved the purchase of an additional six-plex apartment complex near the new Vocational Academy to provide for more room for parking and a fire lane.
• Approved Resolution 2007-035 to non-renew the contract of Norma Exposito, a non-tenured teacher.
• Accepted a letter of resignation from the Board from Member Betty Garcia so that she may apply for Hindman's unexpired term.
• Approved allowing Garcia to sit with the Board at Hutchinson High School graduation to give her daughter her high school diploma.
• Held an executive session for 15 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel.

Personnel Report

Certified

Hired

• Mary Brillhart, Summer Scholars Substitute, Faris Elementary School
• Kelly Curry, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Yvonne Danyluk, Summer Scholars Substitute, Faris Elementary School
• Pam Downing, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Sarah Ellegood, Physical Education, Hutchinson Middle School – 7, effective 2007-08 school year
• Paul Erickson, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Kristy Farley, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Julie Foster, Summer Scholars Substitute, Faris Elementary School
• Pat Lillard, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Peggy Miller, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Glenn Owen, Principal, McCandless Elementary School, effective 2007-08 school year
• Stacy Perry, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Clint Rodriguez, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Tonya Saiz, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Suzann Shea, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Becky Stiles, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Martin Vieyra, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Gayle Wilson, Summer Scholars Teacher, Faris Elementary School
• Jodi Lambert, Language Arts, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective 2007-08 school year
• Sheila Meggers, Math, Hutchinson High School, effective 2007-08 school year
• Jennifer Mendenhall, 4-Year-Olds At-Risk, McCandless Elementary School, effective 2007-08 school year

Resignations

• Sue Brax, Grade 2, Wiley Elementary School, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Scott Bruning, Science, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Jessica Estes, Grade 6, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Erica Meadows, Briny Birds, Hutchinson High School, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Cleta Sandlin, FACS, Vocational Center, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Bruce Bingham, Head Coach Soccer, Hutchinson Middle School, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Scott Bruning, Head Coach Volleyball, Hutchinson Middle School – 8, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Tyson Meyers, Assistant Coach Football, Hutchinson Middle School – 7, effective end of 2006-07 school year
• Janine Owens, School Counselor, Wiley and Faris Elementary Schools, effective end of 2006-07 school year

Position Changes, From, To

• Bruce Bingham, Science/HMS-7, Assistant Principal/McCandless, effective 2007-08 school year
• Andrea Fisher, Principal/McCandless, Coordinator of Federal Programs/Ad Center, effective 2007-08 school year
• Antoinette Root, Social Studies/HHS, Interdisciplinary Team Teacher/BJ's, effective 2007-08 school year
• Letha Warner, Asst Principal/McCandless, Teacher/To be determined, effective 2007-08 school year

Classified

Hired

• Herminia Benitez, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, Hutcherson Center
• James Parker, LD Para, Lincoln

Resignations

• Jessica Collins, Head Main Dish, HMS-7, effective April 5, 2007
• Sarah Fast, MR Para, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen, effective May 24, 2007
• Crystal Perry, LD Para, Morgan, effective Feb. 27, 2007
• Barbara Youngblood, Cafeteria Aide, HMS-8, effective April 13, 2007
• Judy McReynolds, Custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective March 30, 2007

Retirement

• Kyle Zumalt, custodian, Hutchinson High School, effective July 30, 2007

Position Change, From, To

• Noel Burger, Para Substitute/Morgan, LD Para/Morgan
• Jeanne Ewing, Head Start Food Service Assistant, Food Service Substitute, effective March 1, 2007
• Lucy Tracy, Cook/Server/Hutchinson High School, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, effective April 16, 2007
• Bonnie Pollock, Assistant Main Dish/HMS-7, Head Main Dish/HMS-7

Gifts to Schools

• $275 from the Charles E. Carey Memorial Fund for the Faris Reading is Fundamental program.
• School supplies valued at $80 from Lloyd Huber of Huber Inc. to be used by McCandless Elementary School.
• Seven school bags, valued at $209.93, from Lloyd Huber of Huber Inc., to be used by McCandless Elementary School students without a school bag.
• $300 from the Charles E. Carey Memorial Fund for the McCandless Reading is Fundamental program.
• $300 from the James A. and Juliet L. Davis Foundation for the McCandless Reading is Fundamental program.
• $164.40 from Target to be used in the McCandless Elementary School Revolving Gift Program.

Next Meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. May 14.

March 12, 2007
Special day school to move to Medora

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (March 12, 2007) formally approved moving a special education program to a facility in Medora.

The district has hosted a day school for seriously emotionally disturbed students at Grandview School the past several years. Beginning with the 2007-08 school year, the program will move to a Buhler USD 313 facility in Medora. In addition to educating USD 308 students, the program has educated students from other area school districts.

USD 308 closed Grandview as a regular school site because of structural problems in the older part of the building in the mid 1990s. The day school was held in the newer portion of the building. The district would like to close the facility entirely.

By moving the program to Medora, the McPherson County Special Education Cooperative will join the effort, sending its seriously emotionally disturbed students to the facility as well.

The Board approved two motions – the first to approve the Medora Interagency Agreement and the second to approve the interlocal agreement between the district and the two county special education cooperatives.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

• Approved the purchase of K-4 music textbooks and materials from Scott Foresman for $76,083.43.
• Approved a letter of agreement with the American Society for Quality to offer advanced Koality Kid/Quality Keys training to USD 308 staff April 30 to May 3.
• Approved a bid to purchase a bleacher motor replacement from Kansas Contract Design for $11,753. The bid was the lowest of the three received and the only one to clearly meet specifications.
• Approved the purchase of technology equipment to be used at Bob Johnson Youth Center for $13,743. USD 308 provides education services to students housed at Bob Johnson.
• After a 15-minute executive session, approved extension of contracts for district administrators for the 2007-08 school year for all administrators who had not previously retired or resigned.

Personnel report

Certified

Hired

• Chuck Bisbee, Rule X Assistant Coach Track, Hutchinson Middle School, effective March 19, 2007
• Susan Howard, Head Coach Cheerleading, Hutchinson Middle School, effective 2007-08 school year
• Tracie Kazar, Assistant Coach Track, Hutchinson Middle School, effective March 19, 2007
• Mary McMichael, Vocal Music Teacher, Hutchinson High School, effective 2007-08 school year
• Lori Meis, Assistant Coach Tennis, Hutchinson Middle School, effective March 5, 2007
• Chris Allen, Assistant Track Coach, Hutchinson Middle School, effective March 19, 2007

Resignation

• Laura McLemore, Principal, Graber Elementary, effective end of the 2006-07 school year

Classified

Resignation

• Beatrice Hays, Full-Time Sub, Food Service, effective March 1, 2007

Position Change, From, To

• Joe Palacioz, Grounds Crew/Maintenance, Athletic Maintenance-Event Manager/Maintenance

Gifts to schools

• 63 dictionaries, valued at $63, from the Hutchinson Noon Optimists Club for the fourth grade class at Graber
• $250 from the Janet and Harold Ryan Donor Advised Fund for the Food 4 Kids program in USD 308
• Eight donations, totaling $7,700, from various sources to Hutchinson High School for the period Nov. 15, 2006, through Feb. 23, 2007

Next meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. March 26 at the Administration Center.

----------------------------------------------------

Feb. 27, 2007
Board remembers David Hindman

Each member of the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Feb. 26, 2007) took time to remember a community leader they considered part of “their family.”

Board Member David Hindman died Saturday in an accident at his home. His funeral will be at 11 a.m. Thursday at First Presbyterian Church, 201 East Sherman.

“David never had an agenda,” said Board President Jeff Nichols. “He never had a preconceived notion. David looked at all the facts before making a decision.

“David will be missed. He was more than just a board member. He was a friend. I want to say to Debbie (his wife) and Todd and Lesa (his children), our thoughts and prayers are with them.”

All six Board members took time Monday to remember the life and the multitude of educational, community and personal contributions of Hindman. A red rose sat at Hindman's place at the Board table and his name was called one last time for roll call.

Hindman had served on the Board since 2001 and was Board president in 2004-05.

The Board also took time Monday to recognize USD 308 winners from Lincoln and Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen in Hutchinson's Black History Contest.

Hutchinson Public Schools winners were

Second Grade
1st: Braiden VonFeldt
2nd: Carla Jaquez
3rd: Kimberly Murphy

Third Grade
1st: Itzayana Mendoza
2nd: Maria Espinoza
3rd: Titana Johnson
Honorable Mention: Elizabeth Valdez

Sixth Grade
3rd: Trae Mayberry
Honorable Mention: Christopher Starks

Lincoln Elementary School teacher Glinda Theus was recognized for her promotional support of the program.

The Board also recognized elementary art students from across the district. March is Youth Art Month. Superintendent Wynona Winn read a proclamation for Youth Art Month in the district.

In other action, the Board:

• Tabled an application for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme because district IB Coordinator Todd Ray was unable to be at the meeting.
• Approved a contract between the district and the city of Hutchinson for use of Hobart Detter Field.
• Approved a bid from Ediger Enterprises for $15,045.15 to replace about 2,260 square feet of sheet vinyl at the Salthawk Activities Center.
• Approved renewal of the contract with EBSCO for on-line databases used by district students and staff for $12,900.
• Held an executive session for 20 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations.
• Tabled administrator contract renewals for 2007-08.

Personnel Report

Certified

Hired

• Michelle Young, principal, Lincoln Elementary, effective March 5, 2007
• Amanda McCue, Rule X assistant coach softball, Hutchinson High School, effective Feb. 26, 2007

Resignations

• Stephanie Knutson, Grade 4, Wiley Elementary, effective at the end of the 2006-07 school year
• Kelsey Farley, Rule X assistant coach cheerleading, Hutchinson Middle School, effective at the end of 2006-07 season
• Mary Flores, special education teacher, Wiley Elementary School, effective at the end of the 2007-07 school year
• Erica Meadows, head coach cheerleading, Hutchinson Middle School, effective at the end of the 2006-07 season

Retirements

• Liz Peirce, principal, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen, effective at the end of the 2006-07 school year
• Jane Riojas, English as a Second Language Teacher, Avenue A Elementary School, effective at the end of the 2006-07 school year

Classified

Hired

• Christine Corkill, child care provider, Hutcherson Center
• Gloria Mendoza, Head Start teacher assistant substitute, Hutcherson Center
• Stephanie Proffer, Head Start teacher assistant substitute, Hutcherson Center
• Stacie Smith, gifted para, ESC

Position Change From, To

• Jeanne Ewing, Head Start food service assistant/Hutcherson Center, cafeteria aide/HHS

Next Meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. March 12

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Feb. 12, 2007
Board approves updated strategic plan

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Feb. 12, 2007) approved its strategic plan for 2007.

The district's strategic plan is the document from which all building, department and individual goals are written. The plan includes key strategies to achieve the goals, action plans to attaining the goals, key measures to determine if the goals are being met and tools for evaluating effectiveness of strategies.

The district continues to have four overall goals.

Goal 1: Recruit and retain high performing faculty and staff
Goal 2: Show continuous improvement of student learning
Goal 3: Maintain a safe school environment conducive to teaching and learning
Goal 4: Focus support systems on wise stewardship of school district resources

In other action, the Board approved bids to upgrade the district's wireless network infrastructure, awarding bids totaling $314,749.64 to SKT Business Communications. The other bid package from AT&T totaled $342.872.60.

USD 308 was one of the first districts in Kansas to provide wireless computer network access in schools and facilities as part of the 2000 technology bond issue. District students and staff were no longer tethered to a fixed computer lab for work.

Equipment installed in 2000-01 is slow and insecure by 2007 standards. Most residential wireless networks today provide for faster throughput and allow for “locking down” the system to outsiders.

The new equipment will provide faster communication between the network and computers. It also will allow the district to specify exactly which computers will be allowed access to the network.

Funding for the upgrade will come from technology funds and the Microsoft antitrust settlement. When the 2000 bond issue was passed, the Board committed to regularly updating district technology resources with existing funds.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

• Recognized the Class 5A state debate champion team from Hutchinson High School. Members of the team were Andrew Allsup, junior; Trevor Curiel, junior; Ryan McFarland, junior; Emily Graham, senior; Rachel Shannon, sophomore; and Ursela Hemman, sophomore.
• Heard a Baldrige Moment from Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen.
• Approved the purchase of an industrial strength metal shear for the HHS Vocational Welding Program for $25,000 from Bonzai Products.
• Approved a bid from Ediger Enterprises for $22,994.40 to replace flooring in the middle school bathrooms with sheet vinyl.
• Approved collaborative agreements between Reno County Head Start and USD 308's McCandless Elementary School; USD 309 preschools at Nickerson and South Hutchinson Elementary schools; USD 310 preschools at Fairfield West and Fairfield East Elementary schools; USD 312 Haven preschool; and USD 313 preschools at Obee and Union Valley Elementary schools.
• Approved an addendum for the 2007 lease between USD 308 and New Beginnings. USD 308's Early Head Start Program is located in one of New Beginning's facilities and the program needs additional space.
• Approved the Head Start Employee Standards of Conduct.
• Approved the Head Start National Reporting System Interim Program Report.
• Held an executive session for 60 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations.

Personnel Report

The Board approved the following staff changes.

Certified

Hired

• Carla Little, Mental Health Consultant, Head Start
• Catherine Field, Physical Education, McCandless, effective Feb. 8, 2007

Resignations

• Faith Martin, Phyical Education, McCandless, effective Jan. 31, 2007
• Kerri Werth, Grade 5, Lincoln, effective end of 2006-07 school year

Retirement

Sandra John, Grade 2, Wiley Elementary, effective at the end of the 2006-07 school year

Classified

Hired

• Monica Hale, Head Start Teacher Assistant, South Hutchinson
• Karon Hines, Day Care Assistant, HHS Day Care
• Laura Reed, Home Bound Para, District
• Roberta Scheminske, Food Service Substitute, District
• Elaine Johnson, Head Start Food Service Assistant, Hutcherson Center
• Michelle Patton, Cafeteria Aide, HHS

Resignations

• Leigh Hornbaker, Playground Aide, Graber, effective Nov. 15, 2006
• Jennifer Ramirez, Playground Aide/Cafeteria Aide, Graber, effective Feb. 5, 2007

Termination

• Rhonda Meier, Day Care Assistant, HHS Day Care, effective Jan. 29, 2007

Position Change, From, To

• Christina Barker, Gifted Para/ESC, LD Para/McCandless
• Connie Bowser, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, Head Start Teacher Assistant

Gifts to Schools

The Board accepted the following gifts to schools.

• $724.79 from School Mall for a fundraiser to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen
• A desktop computer and seven reams of cardstock paper, valued at $599.58, from Wal-Mart to Reno County Head Start
• 80 stocking caps, valued at $400, from First Call for Help to Reno County Head Start
• Paper products, valued at $144, from First Call for Help to Reno County Head Start
• School supplies, valued at $129.95, from First Call for Help to Reno County Head Start
• $300 from the James A. and Juliet L. Davis Foundation to Reno County Head Start for its Reading is Fundamental Program
• $300 from the James A. and Juliet L. Davis Foundation to Lincoln Elementary School for its Reading is Fundamental Program
• $100 from the Sunflower State Crankers, a Model T car club, to the Vocational Center

Next Meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Administration Center.

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Jan. 22, 2007
Board approves custodial supplies contract

Based on the results of a pilot program, the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Jan. 22, 2007) approved a contract for custodial supplies and consultation from Pur-O-Zone.

During the first half of the school year, district staff worked with three different vendors for consultation and supplies. After reviewing the data, a selection committee of district staff recommended Pur-O-Zone be given the contract.

With the contract, Pur-O-Zone will review how each district building is cleaned and give an estimate of the time it should take and the products that should be used. The estimates are based on industry data.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

• ·         Approved an equipment lease with Pitney Bowes, Inc., for Mail Creation equipment.
• ·         Approved a bid for $37,008 for heating/air conditioning for the new food service building.
• ·         Accepted a bid from Kansas Contract Design for replacement furniture for the district's elementary schools. In a companion motion, the Board declared a list of old furniture as surplus.
• ·         Approved an interlocal agreement between Head Start and the Reno County Education Cooperative.
• ·         Approved an interlocal agreement between Head Start and the Training and Evaluation Center of Hutchinson.
• ·         Approved a bank deposit agreement with First National Bank of Hutchinson for the short-term deposit of monthly draws on bond issue proceeds.
• ·         Approved a professional site survey related to the bond issue for Morgan, Wiley and Hutchinson High School with Gilson Enterprises, a Hutchinson surveyor, for $13,800.
• ·         Held executive sessions, totaling 45 minutes, to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations.

Personnel Report

Certified

Retirements

• ·         Jean Ann Petz, Director of Assessment & Secondary Education, effective at the end of the 2006-07 school year
• ·         Ken Petz, Avenue A Principal, effective at the end of the 2006-07 school year

Classified

Hired

• ·         Bailey Basinger, OHI Para, HMS-8
• ·         Julie Foster, Education Aide Reading Support, Morgan
• ·         Charlene “Vikki” Smith, Food Service Bookkeeper, Warehouse
• ·         Maxine Wickliffe, LD Para, Lincoln
• ·         Noel Burger, Substitute Secretary, District
• ·         Lisa Cerros, LD Para, McCandless
• ·         Jeanne Ewing, Head Start food Service Assistant, Hutcherson Center
• ·         Andrew Freeman, LD Para, McCandless
• ·         Meagan Lancaster, Substitute Secretary, District

Resignations

• ·         Jay Gehring, MIS Specialist, Head Start, effective 1/31/07
• ·         Susan Mendoza, Head Start Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center, effective 1/9/07
• ·         Keri White, LD Para, McCandless, effective 2/15/07
• ·         Danielle Kidd, Head Start Teacher Assistant, effective 1/31/07

Retirement

• ·         Linda Graves, Elementary Secretary, Faris, effective 6/1/07

Gifts to Schools

• ·         $300 from the James A. and Juliet L. Davis Foundation for the Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen Reading is Fundamental Program.
• ·         $250 from the Macdonald Charitable Foundation to Avenue A for the Reading is Fundamental Program.
• ·         $250 from the Macdonald Charitable Foundation to Head Start A for the Reading is Fundamental Program.
• ·         $250 from the Macdonald Charitable Foundation to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen for the Reading is Fundamental Program.
• ·         $250 from the Macdonald Charitable Foundation to Lincoln for the Reading is Fundamental Program.

Next Meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. February 12.

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Jan. 8, 2007
Sets $78.8 million Master Facility Plan into motion

Board approves sale of bonds

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Jan. 8, 2007) approved the sale of bonds that will fund the district's Master Facility Plan.

On Nov. 7, 2006, USD 308 voters approved a $78.8 million bond issue to make improvements at the district's K-12 schools as well as construct a Vocational Academy at Hutchinson High School.

Monday's action by the Board approved sale of the new bonds as well as refinancing at a lower interest rate a portion of the remaining years of bonds used to improve elementary schools in the 1990s.

The 20-year bonds for the new construction and renovations for the Master Facility Plan are estimated to have an average interest rate of 4.33 percent, down about 0.3 percent from last fall when voters approved the plan.

The lower interest rates for both the refinanced bonds and the new bonds will save district taxpayers significant amounts of money over the life of the bonds.

Once proceeds from the bond sales are received later this month, those proceeds will be placed in interest-bearing accounts until the money is needed for projects. A portion of the interest money will be used to pay for the land on which the new Vocational Academy will be constructed.

The district took a second major step into the future Monday, approving the contract to create a data warehouse. Historically, schools have collected reams of data such as grades, test scores, attendance and graduation rates. Analysis of that data, however, has been hampered by its format or the various places in which it was located across a school district.

Currently, much of the assessment data for USD 308 is stored on a laptop computer and analyzed by hand by Jean Ann Petz, district director of assessment.

Monday's action by the Board approved a contract with TetraData in Greenville, S.C., to create an electronic warehouse for the many different streams of data in the district. This warehouse will both store the information and provide staff with electronic tools for analyzing data more completely.

In other action, the Board:

• ·         Heard a Baldrige Moment from McCandless Elementary School staff.
• ·         Approved art books for the International Baccalaureate Programme and 3D art program at HHS.
• ·         Approved a contract for refinishing of gym floors at the Salthawk Activities Center, the HHS north gym, HMS-7 and HMS-8 with PUR-O-ZONE for $10,500.
• ·         Approved bids for electrical service in the new food service building at the Support Services Center with Zenor Electric for $26,495 and for a freezer/cooler for the same facility from Muckenthaler, Inc., for $97,553.
• ·         Approved a Head Start service child care agreement with Rockin J's Child Care.
• ·         Approved hosting the Kagan Cooperative Learning Training for certified staff in June.
• ·         Held executive sessions, totaling 45 minutes. to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations.

Personnel Report

The Board approved the following personnel changes.

Certified

Hired

• ·         Marquese Hill, Rule X assistant coach wrestling, HMS-8

Resignation

• ·         Connie Kersenbrock, Mental Health Consultant, Head Start, effective Jan. 12, 2007

Retirement

• ·         Ann Dunn, Orchestra, HMS-8
• ·         Michelle Young, Principal, Lincoln Elementary, effective Jan. 31, 2007

Classified

Hired

• ·         Christina Barker, Gifted Para, ESC
• ·         Kelley Lippencott, Day Care Substitute, HHS Day Care
• ·         Davida Nevins, Medication Aide/LPN, Lincoln
• ·         Christopher Swartz, Computer Network Support Specialist, TSC
• ·         Catherine Bible, Fixed Assets/Federal Programs Secretary, Administration Center
• ·         Jordan Gajewski, Custodial Substitute, District

Resignations

• ·         Linda Lamb, LD Para, Lincoln, effective 12/21/06
• ·         Jamie Rutherford, Head Start Teacher Assistant, Head Start/Obee, effective 12/21/06

Position Change, From, To

• ·         Sandra Griffith, Food Service Assistant/Head Start, Head Start Teacher Assistant/Hutcherson, effective 1/2/07
• ·         Marie McCroy, Head Start Teacher Assistant/Hutcherson, Head Start Teacher Assistant/Obee, effective 1/3/07
• ·         Amy Ratley, Head Start Substitute, HHS Day Care Assistant, effective 1/2/07

Gifts to Schools

The Board approved the following gifts to schools and thanked the donors.

• ·         $300 from the James A. and Juliet Davis Foundation for the Reading is Fundamental Program at Faris.
• ·         $437.50 from Lifetouch National School Studios to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen for student activities and projects.
• ·         $556.50 from the Altrusa Club to the McCandless Library Fund to purchase Welcome to School Packs.
• ·         $115.39 from Target to the McCandless Revolving Fund.
• ·         $3,230.72 from the Dillons-Kwik Shop Run to be used in the McCandless Activity Fund.
• ·         $325 from The Sewing Club to be used in the McCandless Revolving Fund.
• ·         $300 from the James A. and Juliet Davis Foundation for the Reading is Fundamental Program at Avenue A.

Next Meeting

The next regular meeting of the Board will be at 7 p.m. Jan. 22 in the Administration Center.

Monday, December 11th - Board makes two bond-related decisions

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Dec. 11, 2006) approved offering for sale $78.8 million worth of bonds to finance district improvements and purchase of land for the new Vocational Academy.
 s
 On an 7-0 vote, the Board approved offering for sale bonds approved by voters in November by a 58 to 42 percent margin. The bonds will finance improvements to take place over the next nearly four years to align facilities with district educational offerings.
 
 The bond sale will return to the Board agenda in January when members will vote on the actual sale of the bonds. Once sold, the money will be placed in interest bearing accounts until needed. A portion of that interest income, in turn, will be used to finance a second major decision the Board approved Monday.
 
 On a 7-0 vote after a 30-minute executive session, the Board approved purchase of land west of the Hutchinson High School North Gym. The land, currently occupied by apartments, is the future home of the new Vocational Academy at HHS.
 
 Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:
 
 · Honored the Class 6A state championship Salthawk football team, coaches and managers. The Salthawks won its third consecutive football championship in November.
 
 · Heard a Baldrige Moment from Graber Elementary School.
 
 · Approved the fiscal year 2006 audit from Bartlett, Settle & Edgerle.
 
 · Voted against setting any time line for possible improvements or upgrades at Don Michael Field.
 
 · Approved purchase of a prototyping printer for the HHS Lead the Way Program.
 
 · Approved art textbooks for the Hutchinson Middle School Art Program for $7,114 from Glencoe/McGraw-Hill.
 
 · Approved new policies on cell phone allowances for designated employees and on hazing/harassment/intimidation/bullying/menacing.
 
 · Approved hiring the Kansas Association of School Boards to assist in the search for a new superintendent.
 
 · Approved authorizing the district's attorney to commence a civil action for a declaratory judgment and related relief regarding the validity of the Image Quest Inc. equipment rental and service agreement.
 
 Personnel Report
 
 Certified
 
 Hired
 
 · Dustin Delaney, Assistant Coach Wrestling, Hutchinson High School
 
 · Leanna Gleason, Assistant Coach Bowling, Hutchinson High School
 
 · Brandon Imel, Rule X – Assistant Coach Wrestling, Hutchinson Middle School – 8
 
 Resignations
 
 · Matthew Lang, Rule X - Assistant Coach Wrestling, Hutchinson High School
 
 · Patrick Lopez, Math, Hutchinson High School
 
 Classified
 
 Hired
 
 · Lauren Gardner, Medication Aide – LPN, HHS
 
 · Kaleena Johnson, LD Para, Graber
 
 · Silvia Magana, Head Start Bilingual Family Support Worker, Hutcherson Center
 
 · Carla Showalter, Fixed Assets Federal Programs Secretary, Administration Center
 
 · Kierra Stokes, Title I Educational Aide, Lincoln
 
 · Dedra Anderson, Para, District
 
 · Teresa Bertsch, Playground Aide, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen
 
 · Tristan Meyers, Custodian, HMS-8
 
 · Ginger Redd, LD Para, HHS
 
 · Vada Unrein, Cook/Server, Morgan
 
 Resignations
 
 · Donna Beachell, ED Para, HHS - Effective 01/05/07
 
 · Kendra Schweitzer, Business Office Secretary, Administration Center - Effective 12/29/06
 
 · Honnan Collier, Early Head Start Home Visitor, Early Head Start – Effective 12/01/06
 
 · Mandy Franklin, SMH Para, Faris – Effective 12/31/06
 
 · James Galliardt, OHI Para, HMS-8 – Effective 12/27/06
 
 · Katherine Rhaesa, ESL Educational Aide, HMS-8 – Effective 12/21/06
 
 Position Change, From, To
 
 · Carla Showalter, Fixed Assets/Federal Program Secretary, Business Office Secretary – Administration Center
 
 Termination
 
 · Yowanda Gardner, Custodian, HMS 8 - Effective 11/21/06
 
 
 
 Next Meeting
 
 The next regular Board meeting will Jan. 8.

 
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Monday, November 27th - Dr. Winn announces retirement

Superintendent Wynona Winn told members of the Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Nov. 27, 2006) the time had come for her to retire.

Winn, who is in her seventh year as superintendent of USD 308, told the Board of her decision during an executive session. After the Board resumed the meeting, it voted 6-0 to accept her retirement.

Earlier in the afternoon, Winn met with district administrators and told them of her decision. All district staff was notified of the decision via email at the conclusion of Monday night's Board meeting.

“I think it is a good time to go,” Dr. Winn said. “The bond issue has passed. the Baldrige case study will be ready soon. This is a good time to go.”

Jeff Nichols, Board president, said work begins immediately on finding a successor to Winn.

“We wish Wynona and her family well,” Nichols told administrators. “On behalf of the Board, we will immediately begin a national search. The things she has brought to the district are bigger than she. ... We are looking for someone who is quality minded.”

Specifically, the district is on a quest for the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award and expects a site visit for the program in 10 months.

Winn is the district's 28th superintendent in its 134-year history.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board publicly thanked the Our Kids Come First Committee for promoting the recently approved bond issue to improve district facilities.

On Nov. 7, USD 308 voters approved a $78.8 million bond issue that will bring improvements to all K-12 facilities in the district, including a new Vocational Academy at Hutchinson High School.

Members of the Our Kids Come First Committee recognized Monday were Jeff Allen, Dorothy Barnett, Ernie Beaudet, Chuck Blake, Sarah Blake, Jodee Bowen, Debbie Caffrey, Jesse Castillo, Sharon Deming, Hal Dick, Jeanne Dick, Melodie Dower, Marla Eriksen, Pat Falter, Susan Fangman, Allen Fee, Robin Getting, Cody Heitschmidt, Tamara Heitschmidt, Ray Hemman, Kip Hildebrand, Rusty Hilst, Mark Huston, Dr. Kory Jackson, Cathy Johnson, John Lee, Jill Leslie, Sheila Lucia, Pam Lyle, Darla Neal, David Neal, Denise Neighbors, Randy Norwood, Jessica Owens, Greg Payton, Paula Payton, Ken Peirce, Russ Reinert, Gary Ridge, Jay Sanderson, Tom Sellers, Jan Strecker, Starla Wells, Bob Williams, Wynona Winn and Amy Jo Wintz.

Active members of the committee will continue to play a role in providing public oversight of the bond issue improvements. In a separate action, the Board named members of the public who served on the Our Kids Come First Committee as a Blue Ribbon Committee to oversee the improvements. Additionally, longtime HHS teacher Rusty Hilst will serve on the committee. The committee will visit construction sites, observe progress on various projects and receive monthly financial statements.

Additionally, the Board Monday also named a Red Ribbon Committee that will be more hands-on in its reviews. The Red Ribbon Committee will review architectural plans and drawings as well as financial statements prior to those documents coming to the Board of Education for its approval.

Members of the Red Ribbon Committee are Ernie Beaudet, Pam Lyle and Merl Sellers. Dr. Winn said she would contact two or three additional individuals to serve on the Red Ribbon Committee.

In other action, the Board:

· Heard a Baldrige Moment from Director of Assessment Jean Ann Petz on student achievement in USD 308 and the district's efforts at making adequate yearly progress. The district made AYP in 2006. Three schools, however, just missed the AYP mark in one subgroup – students with disabilities.

· Approved a statement of understanding between USD 308 and Buhler USD 313 for Drivers Education. Students in USD 308 take drivers ed from USD 313. Fees for the program will increase to $190 per student for the 2007 calendar year, up from $185 this year.

· Approved resolutions allowing the district to move $82,161.37 of money not needed for the Cleveland Street paving near the district's soccer fields to the capital outlay fund.

· Approved a copy paper bid from Ricoh Corp. for $20,891.20.

· Approved the mental health services agreement between Head Start and Horizons Mental Health Center for the current fiscal year.

· Approved the Summer Scholars Program for 2007. The summer school program for elementary age students will run in July 2 through 26 from 8 to 11:30 a.m. on Monday through Thursday with July 4 and 5 taken off for vacation days. Administrators expect 185 students for the program.

· Approved the interagency agreement with the Reno County Education Cooperative to serve seriously emotionally disturbed students.

· Approved on first reading new Board policies on cellular phone allowances for designated employees and a districtwide policy on hazing, harassment, bullying and menacing.

· Discussed policy on travel to out-of-state conferences for Board members.

· Approved purchase of leveled readers for the Accelerated Reader Program.

· Held an executive session for 25 minutes.

Personnel Report

Classified

Hired

· Teressa Murray, Cafeteria Aide, HHS

Resignation

· Mattie Huerta, Gifted Para, ESC, effective 12/21/2006

· Christina Palmer, Day Care Teacher, HHS Day Care

Termination

· Maria Beltran, Food Service Bookkeeper, Warehouse, effective 11/10/2006



Gifts to Schools

· Gifts to Hutchinson High School from July 1 through Nov. 15, 87 gifts, totaling $45,813.06



Next Meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Dec. 11.

 
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Monday, October 23rd - Board approves charter grant application

Students who are at risk of dropping out of Hutchinson High School would have another avenue for completing a high school education under a charter school grant application approved by the USD 308 Board of Education Monday (Oct. 23, 2006).

The charter grant application would create the Salthawk Academy. The academy is designed for students who may not be candidates for the traditional alternative schools or GED programs, but who are at risk of dropping out.

The Salthawk Academy would be housed at the Hutchinson Mall and would serve about 60 students. The goals of the academy are to help the students be successful academically and to achieve a high school diploma.

The charter school grant application was written primarily by Gail Prutow, secondary schools helping teacher for the district, and Tambra Stucky, Hutchinson High School teacher.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

· Recognized Sara Mann as a Commended Student in the 2007 National Merit Scholarship Program.

· Approved a resolution and agreement allowing Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 to transport its students to classes at the Early Education Center. An accompanying memorandum from Martindell, Swearer & Shaffer was approved that recognizes the law firm represents both USD 308 and USD 309.

· Approved spending up to $35,334 for USD 308's share of transition costs to move the current day school housed at Grandview School to a school building at Medora.

· Approved a lease agreement for $3,638.30 with the Kansas School for the Deaf for auditory equipment.

· Approved an application for pass-through funds from the state. The funds originate from the federal government and are given to the state of Kansas, which, in turn, provides the funds to local schools for handicapped children.

· Held executive sessions, totaling 20 minutes, to discuss matters of attorney-client privilege.

Personnel Report

Certified

Hired

· Faith Martin, Physical Education, McCandless Elementary

· Amanda McCue, Assistant Coach Girls' Basketball, HMS-8

Resignation
· Heidi Delaney, Assistant Track Coach, Hutchinson Middle School

Classified

Hired

· Lindsay Hildebrand, LD Para, Trinity and St. Teresa

Resignations

· Shannon Martinez, Medication Aide/LPN, Lincoln, effective Oct. 3, 2006

· Danielle Gillespie, ED Para, McCandless, effective Oct. 31, 2006

Position Change, From, To

· Charlene Mariscal, Head Start Teacher Assistant Sub, Head Start Teacher Assistant/Hutcherson Center

· Bonnie Pollock, Full Time Sub, Assistant Main Dish/HMS-7

Gift to Schools

The Board approved the following gifts to schools

· $100 from the Sign Language Club at Hutchinson High School to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen

· $228.37 from Dillon’s Fun Run to Avenue A Elementary School

· $117.66 from the Target Education School Program to Avenue A Elementary School

· $100 from Brad Easter as a memorial for Sarah Swafford to Avenue A Elementary School

Next Meetings

· Nov. 4, 2006, Board Retreat, 8 a.m., Curriculum Lab

· Nov. 13, 2006, Board Meeting, 7 p.m., Board Room


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Monday, October 9th - Board OK's improvement at baseball fields

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Oct. 9, 2006) approved a bid for batting cages at the 23rd and Severance fields.

The low bid of $6,295 came from Miller Homebuilders. The project will be funded with a donation of $295 from district parent and local business owner Allen Fee with the remainder coming from the district's capital outlay fund.

The batting cages at the baseball fields are located in a low area of the field because of existing drainage contours.

After the concrete work is completed, artificial turf will be place over the surface.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

· Heard a Baldrige Moment from Faris Elementary School.

· Approved a memorandum of agreement between Reno County Head Start and the Hutchinson High School Child Care Center.

· Approved a memorandum of agreement between Early Head Start and the Abundant Life Child Care Center.

Personnel report
Certified
Hired

· Thomas Clark, Head Coach Bowling, Hutchinson High School

· Kelly Alexander, Substitute Teacher, District

· Jean Ann Beal, Substitute Teacher, District

· Clifford Bisbee, Substitute Teacher, District

· Glenna Hass, Substitute Teacher, District

· Sheila Meggers, Substitute Teacher, District

· Mary Ray, Substitute Teacher, District

· Jena Simms, Substitute Teacher, District

Classified
Hired

· Michelle Ball, DD Para, McCandless

· Elizabeth Hartshorn, LD Para, McCandless

· Leigh Hornbaker, Playground Aide Substitute

· Shannon Martinez, Medication Aide, LPN, Lincoln

· Lucinda Ward, Title I Educational Aide, Faris

· Kim Byard, Day Care Substitute, HHS Day Care

· Julie Cross, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, Hutcherson Center

· Becky Hartley, Day Care Assistant, HHS Day Care Center

· Linda Neher, DD Para, McCandless

Terminations
· John Harris, Custodian, HHS, effective Sept. 22, 2006

· Cherise Kelley, Playground Supervisor, Graber, effective Sept. 27, 2006

· Rosalia Ibarra, Bilingual Family Support Worker, Hutcherson Center

Resignations

· Bonnie Gilzinger, Day Care Assistant, HHS Day Care, effective Oct. 6, 2006

· Marcella Myers, LD Para, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen, effective Sept. 29, 2006

· Scharlotte Minnis, Title I Educational Aide, Faris, effective Sept. 19, 2006

· Cathy Hardman, Cafeteria Aide, Graber

Position Change, From, To

· Jennifer Ramirez, Head Start Teacher Assistant Sub/Hutcherson Center, Cafeteria and Playground Aide/Graber

· Nancy Roth, Head Start Teacher Assistant/Hutcherson Center, Head Start Day Care and Secretarial Substitute/District

· James Sanchez, Custodial Sub, Custodian/HHS


Gifts to schools

· $392.63 from the Dillon Fun Run to Graber Elementary School

· $100 from Sally Russell to be used by Kerri Werth’s fifth grade class at Lincoln Elementary School


Next meeting

The next regular Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Oct. 23.


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Monday, September 25 K-3 progress reporting could change

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Sept. 25, 2006) heard about progress being made by staff to improve communication between staff and parents about student progress for students in kindergarten through third grades.

Under the reporting form nearing completion, parents will be able to tell more accurately how their children are mastering state curriculum essentials.

Classroom teachers, the district's helping teacher staff and administrators are working on the improved communication tools for parents. Initially, the new reporting grade card will be used for kindergarten students this fall. It will expand to grades one through three in 2007-08.

Students in grades four through 12 receive report cards based on the district's PowerSchool system.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

· Declared old lathes be declared surplus, allowing them to be used as parts on the new lathes.

· Approved an energy conservation policy.

· Approved the nominations of John Rimmer, Mark Holland, Dr. Erik Severud, Jerry Green and Bill Small to the Hutchinson Public Schools Endowment Fund Supervisory Committee.

· Approved the 2006-07 Classified Handbook.

· Approved the Kansas State Department of Education Child and Adult Care Food Program agreement and Sponsor Application with Head Start.

· Appointed Jeff Nichols to serve as the Board's representative for Head Start.

· Nominated Jeff Nichols to be Board representative at the Kansas Association of School Boards Annual Convention Dec. 2 in Wichita. All other Board members who attend will be alternates.

· Received a $700 donation from United Way of Reno County in appreciation of the Hutchinson High School Broadcast Journalism Department's preparation of the 2006 United Way video. Tona Turner, executive director for the United Way of Reno County, complimented both the Broadcast journalism students and the district for the professionally done video.

Personnel Report

Classified

Recommendations for Employment

· Dana Long, Educational Aide, Wiley

· Roy Rusk, Playground Aide, Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen

Termination

· Jessica Vetter, Assistant Main Dish, HMS-7, effective Sept. 11, 2006



Gifts to Schools

· $111.35 from Target’s Take Charge of Education Program to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen

· $268.93 from Dillons-Kwik Shop to Hutchinson Magnet School at Allen



Next Meeting

The Board's next regular meeting will be Oct. 9 at the Administration Center.
 

Monday, September 11 Board approves trust concept

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Sept. 11, 2006) approved the concept for exploring another long-term giving opportunity for district patrons, alumni and friends.

The concept would set up an endowed trust at Central Bank and Trust. Donors would have the ability to contribute to the trust with a committee set up to be stewards of the trust. While the trust would operate independent of the district, it would benefit the district.

As conceived the trust would not conflict with existing efforts of the Hutchinson Public Schools Endowment Fund, the Hutchinson High School Alumni Association or other groups that contribute to the district.

Also during Monday's meeting, the Board:

· Heard a Baldrige Moment from Hutchinson High School on the computer aided instruction program at the school.

· Tabled motions on an energy management policy for the district and a Head Start Services agreement with Rocking J's Inc. to provide childcare/daycare services.

· Approved the annual PowerSchool software/support maintenance agreement for 2006-07.

· Approved the annual Enrollcom license agreement for the district's Section 125 benefits signup.

· Set Nov. 4 as the Board's planning retreat.

· Approved offering district health insurance to 12-month classified employees who work 30 or more hours per week.

Personnel Report

The Board approved the following personnel changes.

Certified

Hired

· Phillip Anstine, Substitute Teacher, District

· Barbara Atha, Substitute Teacher, District

· Dennis Berndsen, Substitute Teacher, District

· Melanie Chappel, Substitute Teacher, District

· Jeff Ditgen, Substitute Teacher, District

· Lori Dohrmann, Substitute Teacher, District

· Catherine Field, Substitute Teacher, District

· Teresa Hickey, Substitute Teacher, District

· D. Beth Irwin, Substitute Teacher, District

· Karen Jacobs, Substitute Teacher, District

· Barbara Julian, Substitute Teacher, District

· Tammy Katzenmeier, Substitute Teacher, District

· Dan Keener, Substitute Teacher, District

· Terry McLaughlin, Substitute Teacher, District

· Phyllis Mikesell, Substitute Teacher, District

· Jerry Mitchell, Substitute Teacher, District

· Jenise Nelson, Substitute Teacher, District

· Mildred Page, Substitute Teacher, District

· Ellen Smiley, Substitute Teacher, District

· Molly Smith, Substitute Teacher, District

· Elizabeth Smith, Substitute Teacher, District

· Rebecca Stafford, Substitute Teacher, District

· Kim Steinle, Substitute Teacher, District

· Freddean Stowe, Substitute Teacher, District

· William Stueckemann, Substitute Teacher, District

· Cecil Vonachen, Substitute Teacher, District

Resignations

· Christopher Allen, Assistant Track Coach, Hutchinson High School

· Stephanie Knutson, Co-Cheerleading Coach, Hutchinson High School

· Mary Hutton, Grade 4, Lincoln Elementary School

Classified

Hired

· Brenda Franklin, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, Hutcherson Center

· John Harris, Custodian, Hutchinson High School

· Judy McReynolds, Custodian, Hutchinson High School

· Crystal Perry, LD Para, Morgan

· Cindy Smith, Food Service Substitute, District

· Shelia Van Rankin, Head Start Teacher Assistant Substitute, Hutcherson Center

· Stephanie Augustine, Head Start Registered Dental Hygienist, Hutcherson Center

· Linda Barragan, Custodian Substitute, District

· Marlys Best, Head Start Registered Dietitian, Hutcherson Center

· Audra Giacoletto, Day Care Substitute, HHS Day Care

· Wayne Leikem, Custodian Substitute, District

· Bonnie Pollock, Food Service Full-Time Substitute, District

· James Sanchez, Custodian Substitute, District

· Jennifer Self, LD Para, Hutchinson High School

Resignations

· Barbara McVey, Medication Aide, Lincoln, effective Aug. 22, 2006

· Susan Ocon, ESL Aide, Avenue A, effective Sept. 11, 2006

· Doris Schadler-Clark, LPN, Lincoln, effective Sept. 18, 2006

· Sherry Teter, DD Para, ESC, effective Sept. 11, 2006



Gifts to Schools

The Board accepted the following gifts to schools.

· $314.78 from the Hutchinson Community Foundation to HMS-7

· Science Screen Report for Kids video series from Cargill Ag Horizons to the district

· 137 books, valued at $1,870.04 to the Hutchinson High School Library through the Reading is Fundamental program supported by Colgate and Dillon Stores

Next Meeting

The next Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 25.

--

Monday, August 28 Board approves 'thank you' to community

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education Monday (Aug. 28, 2006) approved donating half the gate receipts from the district's inaugural football game in the renovated Gowans Stadium to the United Way of Reno County.

Hutchinson High School hosts AVCTL rival McPherson at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 1, at Gowans Stadium.

Superintendent Wynona Winn told the Board the donation would be allow the district to thank the public for supporting the renovations of Gowans Stadium, the district's home football and track venue. United Way of Reno County formally opens its 2006 campaign Aug. 31.

United Way supports 30 agencies that provide social services to the community, including many services that help district students and staff. United Way's goal for 2006 is $1,030,000.

USD 308 is a Pacesetter organization for United Way in 2006 and is running its campaign for the organization earlier than other groups.

Also Monday night, the Board approved the Gowans Stadium facilities use policy and accompanying guidelines. Under the guidelines, USD 308 and Hutchinson Community College have top priority for using the stadium, followed by other unified school districts in Reno county and private schools. Following schools, the priority includes other governmental units in Reno County, not-for-profit youth activity and service groups and finally other not-for-profit organizations.

The Educational Facilities Authority of Reno County will set fees for usage of the stadium. Among the terms and conditions for use of the facilities are prohibitions of smoking inside the stadium and possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

HCC and EFARC also will have to approve the guidelines and policies for Gowans.

In other action, the Board:

· Recognized two students for success in academic competitions. Alex Baker placed second in the junior division of the International Problem Solving Competition. Josh Mendoza was a national winner in the Kids Philosophy Jam.

· Approved contracts with Advanced Termite and Pest Control for pest control services for the district and to install a termite colony elimination system at the Educational Service Center.

· Approved new and updated Board policies.

· Tabled contracts for services for nutritional services, dental hygiene services and mental health services for Head Start.

· Approved bids for custodial supplies for the district.

· Approved closing out a special assessment fund that paved a portion of Cleveland Street near the 23rd and Severance athletic fields. The $82,161.37 was left in the fund after all bills had been paid with that money now transferred to the district's general fund.

· Approved bids from Star Lumber for $16,317.11 for lumber for the Building Trades Program home.

· Approved a software maintenance renewal contract with Odyssey Learning System for $16,640.

· Approved a draft exclusive contract with Pepsi, pending review by the district's attorney.

· Approved increasing adult breakfast prices to $1.55 from $1.30, bringing the cost of adult breakfasts into compliance with Kansas Department of Education regulations.

· Held an executive session for 15 minutes to discuss non-elected personnel and negotiations.

Personnel Report

Certified

Recommendation for Employment

· Joan Stambaugh, Special Education (0.5), Morgan Elementary

· Travis Thurston, Rule X Assistant Football Coach, HMS-7

· Connie Kersenbrock, Mental Health Consultant – Part Time, Hutcherson Center, effective July 1, 2006

Resignation

· Trisha Becher (contingent upon finding a suitable replacement), Physical Education, McCandless, effective Nov. 30, 2006

Classified

Recommendations for Employment

· Misty Barnum, Educational Aide, McCandless

· Barbara Dale, Secretary Substitute, Administration Center

· Brenda Franklin, Head Start Substitute, Hutcherson Center

· Roger Freeland, LD Para, Lincoln

· Kristy Gaeddert, OHI Para, HMS 8

· James Galliardt, OHI Para, HMS 8

· Cassandra Heiderscheit, Hearling Impaired Para, Lincoln

· Catherine Marlow, Cafeteria Aide, McCandless

· Susan Mendoza, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center

· Taci Goff, Educational Aide, Wiley

· Lavinia Houdeshell, MR Para, HHS

· Jennifer Layne, CSS Para, Graber

· Heidi Stanfill, Teacher Assistant, Hutcherson Center

Resignations
· Elizabeth Hartshorn, LD Para, McCandless, effective Sept. 30, 2006

· Heather Ladd, OHI Para, HMS 8, effective Aug. 15, 2006

· Shelly White, Secretary, McCandless, effective Aug. 15, 2006

· Joan Kerr, MR Para, HHS

· Winnifred McQueen, LD Para, St. Teresa's

Position Change, From, To
· Barbara McVey, Med Aide/McCandless, MR Para/HHS, effective Aug. 17, 2006

· Binnie Kendrick, Head Start Teacher Assistant/SJH, Child Care Instructor/Rockin' J's Day Care, effective Aug. 26, 2006

· Amy Ratley, Head Start Teacher Assistant, Head Start & Day Care Substitute, effective Aug. 18, 2006

· Sandra Williams, MR Para/Lincoln, MR Para/McCandless, effective Aug. 18, 2006

Next Meeting

The next Board meeting will be at 7 p.m. Sept. 11.

--

Monday, Aug 14th District recognized for budget excellence

The Hutchinson Public Schools Board of Education celebrated a national award given the district for clarity in telling its financial story.

The Board was presented with the award from the Government Finance Officer Association for a budget document Lori Blakesley, district director of fiscal management, and the Business Office produced for the 2004-05 school year.

Known as the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the document reviews in-depth district finances for the 2004-05 school year. The GFOA gave the document its Certificate of Achievement, the highest award the organization grants.

The 2004-05 CAFR was the first the district produced.

Also Monday, the Board approved the 2006-07 budget. The budget for 2006-07 is 45.527 mills, down 5.313 mills from 2005-06. The next lowest mill rate of recent times was 48.61 mills in 1998-99. In contrast, district taxpayers paid 93.12 mills for USD 308 schools in 1990-91.

Of the district's mill levy, 5.177 mills is for the Hutchinson Recreation Commission.

The mill levy dropped because the 2000 technology bond issue will be paid off during the year. The proposed budget leaves the local option budget at 25 percent.

While local taxes will drop, additional state aid will bolster the district's budget picture. The district will have an estimated additional $2,488,368 in revenue for 2006-07. Of the $2,488,368, about $2 million was earmarked by the Kansas Legislature for specific purposes.

On a $68,000 home, which is the average home value in USD 308, the decrease in taxes will be $29.33 annually. For a $100,000 home, the decrease will be $48.88 annually.

On a business valued at $250,000 the decrease in taxes will be $398.48 a year.

With the start of school only two days off, the Board approved the negotiated agreement with NEA-Hutchinson. Earlier in the day, teachers overwhelmingly approved the agreement.

Overall, returning teachers will get an average pay increase of 5.78 percent without fringe or supplemental pay. All teachers will get an average of 6.02 percent increase without fringe. The negotiated agreement represents an increase in total average compensation of 6.78 percent once fringe benefits and supplem