 |  |  |  |
School board, village reps discuss School Resource Officer position
The Riverton Board of Education met August 9 at 6 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center at Riverton High School. Scott McClure was not in attendance.
Board president Paul Nonneman announced that the REA contract and support staff salaries agenda items would not be voted on at this meeting.
A brief “New Teacher Reception” was held; administrators introduced those new in their respective buildings: at the elementary school, second grade teacher Kris Ragle;
middle school teachers were Chris Bertolino, social studies, Nikki French, language arts, and Brad Polanin, science, all seventh grade teachers. The high school had one
also, Bo Gum, the new Driver’s Education/Health teacher. School board members then introduced themselves.
The minutes from July 12, for the regular and closed session meetings, treasurer’s report, revenue report and expenditure report were all approved 6-0.
“Payment of Bills” had a question from Mr. Klebe regarding the CACC fee, but that is actually an error they thought was corrected, Mrs. Galligan, board secretary, said. It should
be SASED and it is for a first quarter bill, per Supt. Mulligan. This was also approved 6-0.
Mr. Nonneman noted they had received a letter from Stephanie Goff, in thanks to the school district.
Trustee Joe Bartley, Village of Riverton, addressed the board on the School Resource Officer position. Officer Lawley, Chief Dave Smith and Trustee Pat Faires were also in
attendance at the meeting. Bartley distributed a handout that tallied the number of situations/calls the officer had addressed in the last five years, including another for those
just this school year. The position had been part of the district for 12 years, but was cut in the spring due to the budget. Bartley made the comment “In some cases, this is the
first interaction students have with police, is with the SRO. I think you’ll agree this has been a big help to the district. And it’s usually a positive thing for students. We know how
finances are; we’re having some of those same reimbursement issues with the state.”
The village’s proposal is to keep the DARE program in place, and a $20,000 flat rate reimbursement for the SRO, contingent upon the village board’s approval as well as the
district’s. If there’s not approval, they will continue to run the DARE program. The SRO position will run until Aug. 31, per Bartley. Board members discussed; it was decided to
review this further at a Finance Committee meeting to be scheduled soon.
Trustee Bartley also updated the school board on “Safe Routes to Schools.” “We’ve been working on this grant package; sidewalks’ construction or extension, and ADA
compliance, as well as money for bike racks at schools are part of the grant. It is due to the state October 1; we will continue to work on it.” Board members thanked him.
The sales tax referendum information was updated by Mr. Klebe. The Springfield Chamber of Commerce and the Sangamon County Board each met regarding the topic. An
article in the State Journal-Register on sales tax ran last week as well. A potential second question on the ballot might be “How involved should the Sangamon County Board
be in determining what the actual sales tax is?” This may cloud the issue for voters. Board members discussed. No other county has put that question on the ballot. There
was more discussion. There is another county board meeting tomorrow (Tuesday), Mulligan noted.
Supt. Mulligan said questions regarding the residency law for board members have been brought up with regard to Debbie Moore’s family potentially moving. The law says as
long as her primary residence is in the school district, she can continue to serve on the board. There may be a possibility down the road she will be moving, he stated.
Administrative team reports began with Mrs. Binegar, elementary school principal. Mr. Klebe questioned information curriculum revision/updates to math. Mrs. Binegar and
Mrs. Fraase both clarified these are to do with lesson objectives; the curriculum hasn’t changed, it is another piece.
Mr. Nonneman noted Mrs. Binegar mentioning support staff in general who go above and beyond, and while there cannot be a lot done this year, Nonneman continued, when
possible they will take a closer look at monies for salaries. It might be another year or so down the road, he said.
Mrs. Fraase, elementary school assistant principal, mentioned Odyssey (formerly Compass Learning) for special education students’ engagement. A pilot for first and fourth
grade students is planned this year.
Mr. Fred Lamkey, middle school principal, said there are 130 students in fifth grade this year. Going green in the building, and Jump Start attendance numbers were also
briefly discussed.
Mr. Chris Koerwitz, assistant middle school principal and athletic director, was asked by Mrs. Cuffle about Verizon. Since the district has a contract with them for phones, is
there a possibility for sponsorship opportunities with regard to technology? He will talk with them.
Mr. Bill Lamkey, high school principal, had information about dual credit and AP courses. Supt. Mulligan is encouraged by these, as it relates to setting targets on what is
offered. Mr. Klebe inquired about PLTW student numbers this year/students who discontinue the program. Lamkey said feedback he has received from students is that the
program is “not their thing or too difficult.”
Mr. Mike Gum, assistant high school principal, was not asked anything nor was anything voiced regarding his report.
Mr. Bill Geiger, grounds director, was complimented by Mrs. Cuffle on the elementary school playground. Geiger responded “it will be an ongoing thing” with new installations
continuing.
“Old Business” included repeat information about the final auction list that will be presented at the September board meeting. Plans for additional handicapped parking spaces
at the high school were reviewed; Mr. Geiger distributed information from the low bidder at a cost of $740. Board members asked how equipment replacement plans at different
buildings were proceeding. Mr. Geiger replied that Johnson Controls has been working with the district and subcontractors as necessary. Three units at the middle school will
be replaced during the October break.
Supt. Mulligan began his report; he noted enrollment in the district has dropped. The 87 students in Kindergarten is the lowest, but at the middle school numbers are a bit
larger. Mulligan asked board members if they were comfortable with the training they had, or would they like the facilitator to return, as a special meeting? Yes was the
consensus.
He had given board members a preliminary summary on the FY11 budget. With the state cutting the foundation level, reductions that districts are making, and the state
borrowing billions to make last fiscal year’s payments to districts, he said “The question is will things get so bad that the state doesn’t give districts what they are owed in order
to get out of the deficit hole? That’s the dilemma. Regarding the SRO position, in tough financial times the district couldn’t add that position back. This will be discussed
further at the Finance Committee meeting.
“Consider Approval of FY11 Tentative Budget and Set Hearing Date” led to Supt. Mulligan responding to questions on grant expenditures for Gretchen Courtney Associates.
Originally the total amount of the grant was $180,000. An amount of $30,000 is needed from it for eight days of training, meals, transportation as well as ongoing support. When
the board failed to motion for a vote, and this was in danger of dying, Supt. Mulligan asked “Is this where we’re at? This is one of the biggest initiatives in the district. The
money can only be spent on certain things.” He distributed an outline for the eight days. “Reading coaches desperately need additional instruction. We saw such encouraging
results last year. I hate to pull the rug out.” Administrators and board members discussed other types of training and their costs for comparison.
Gretchen Courtney’s contract wording was reviewed. Going back to the $180,000, Supt. Mulligan clarified that grant had Odyssey math and other things paid out of it. “It’s a very
focused grant.” After more discussion, it was motioned by Ms. Baskett and seconded by Mrs. Moore for a vote. The result of 5-1 in favor, with Mr. Klebe voting “no.”
“Consider Approval of Balanced Scorecard:” this item is postponed because, as Supt. Mulligan explained, “Administrators met again today . . . we’re not ready. We just need
some more time to go over some of the measures. This is such an important document, we don’t want to rush it.”
“Consider Approval of Intergovernmental Agreements with the Village of Riverton and with Clear Lake Township” was explained as a formality for insurance purposes. This
was approved 6-0.
The board went into closed session at 7:22 p.m. (with a short break first) to discuss negotiations, the Personnel Report and the purchase of property.
The board returned to open session at 8:13 p.m. The Personnel Report was reviewed; resignations included Gale Lee, custodian, and Drew Kays, volleyball coach, both at the
middle school. Individuals recommended for employment included: Kris Ragle, second grade teacher; Erica Weaver, teacher’s aide at the elementary school; Roger
Chapman and Joshua Crawford, both custodians at the high school; Ashley Esker, sixth grade girls basketball coach; Laura Moore and Courtney Ifft, head and volunteer
coaches for high school cross country, respectively. These were all approved 6-0.
“Consider Approval of the REA Contract for the 2010-2011 school year” was postponed, as negotiations are not completed, per Mr. Nonneman.
“Consider Approval of Support Staff Salaries for FY11” was also postponed, as it is typically connected to the REA contract’s approval, Mr. Nonneman also said.
“Announcements and Discussion” included the scheduling of a Finance Committee meeting, to discuss the SRO position. Supt. Mulligan will get that date out to members.
Trustee Pat Faires asked if they wanted the village’s Public Safety Committee to attend that meeting? “Yes” was the superintendent’s response.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:16 p.m.
The Riverton Board of Education met August 9 at 6 p.m. in the Fine Arts Center at Riverton High School. Scott McClure was not in attendance.
Board president Paul Nonneman announced that the REA contract and support staff salaries agenda items would not be voted on at this meeting.
A brief “New Teacher Reception” was held; administrators introduced those new in their respective buildings: at the elementary school, second grade teacher Kris Ragle;
middle school teachers were Chris Bertolino, social studies, Nikki French, language arts, and Brad Polanin, science, all seventh grade teachers. The high school had one
also, Bo Gum, the new Driver’s Education/Health teacher. School board members then introduced themselves.
The minutes from July 12, for the regular and closed session meetings, treasurer’s report, revenue report and expenditure report were all approved 6-0.
“Payment of Bills” had a question from Mr. Klebe regarding the CACC fee, but that is actually an error they thought was corrected, Mrs. Galligan, board secretary, said. It should
be SASED and it is for a first quarter bill, per Supt. Mulligan. This was also approved 6-0.
Mr. Nonneman noted they had received a letter from Stephanie Goff, in thanks to the school district.
Trustee Joe Bartley, Village of Riverton, addressed the board on the School Resource Officer position. Officer Lawley, Chief Dave Smith and Trustee Pat Faires were also in
attendance at the meeting. Bartley distributed a handout that tallied the number of situations/calls the officer had addressed in the last five years, including another for those
just this school year. The position had been part of the district for 12 years, but was cut in the spring due to the budget. Bartley made the comment “In some cases, this is the
first interaction students have with police, is with the SRO. I think you’ll agree this has been a big help to the district. And it’s usually a positive thing for students. We know how
finances are; we’re having some of those same reimbursement issues with the state.”
The village’s proposal is to keep the DARE program in place, and a $20,000 flat rate reimbursement for the SRO, contingent upon the village board’s approval as well as the
district’s. If there’s not approval, they will continue to run the DARE program. The SRO position will run until Aug. 31, per Bartley. Board members discussed; it was decided to
review this further at a Finance Committee meeting to be scheduled soon.
Trustee Bartley also updated the school board on “Safe Routes to Schools.” “We’ve been working on this grant package; sidewalks’ construction or extension, and ADA
compliance, as well as money for bike racks at schools are part of the grant. It is due to the state October 1; we will continue to work on it.” Board members thanked him.
The sales tax referendum information was updated by Mr. Klebe. The Springfield Chamber of Commerce and the Sangamon County Board each met regarding the topic. An
article in the State Journal-Register on sales tax ran last week as well. A potential second question on the ballot might be “How involved should the Sangamon County Board
be in determining what the actual sales tax is?” This may cloud the issue for voters. Board members discussed. No other county has put that question on the ballot. There
was more discussion. There is another county board meeting tomorrow (Tuesday), Mulligan noted.
Supt. Mulligan said questions regarding the residency law for board members have been brought up with regard to Debbie Moore’s family potentially moving. The law says as
long as her primary residence is in the school district, she can continue to serve on the board. There may be a possibility down the road she will be moving, he stated.
Administrative team reports began with Mrs. Binegar, elementary school principal. Mr. Klebe questioned information curriculum revision/updates to math. Mrs. Binegar and
Mrs. Fraase both clarified these are to do with lesson objectives; the curriculum hasn’t changed, it is another piece.
Mr. Nonneman noted Mrs. Binegar mentioning support staff in general who go above and beyond, and while there cannot be a lot done this year, Nonneman continued, when
possible they will take a closer look at monies for salaries. It might be another year or so down the road, he said.
Mrs. Fraase, elementary school assistant principal, mentioned Odyssey (formerly Compass Learning) for special education students’ engagement. A pilot for first and fourth
grade students is planned this year.
Mr. Fred Lamkey, middle school principal, said there are 130 students in fifth grade this year. Going green in the building, and Jump Start attendance numbers were also
briefly discussed.
Mr. Chris Koerwitz, assistant middle school principal and athletic director, was asked by Mrs. Cuffle about Verizon. Since the district has a contract with them for phones, is
there a possibility for sponsorship opportunities with regard to technology? He will talk with them.
Mr. Bill Lamkey, high school principal, had information about dual credit and AP courses. Supt. Mulligan is encouraged by these, as it relates to setting targets on what is
offered. Mr. Klebe inquired about PLTW student numbers this year/students who discontinue the program. Lamkey said feedback he has received from students is that the
program is “not their thing or too difficult.”
Mr. Mike Gum, assistant high school principal, was not asked anything nor was anything voiced regarding his report.
Mr. Bill Geiger, grounds director, was complimented by Mrs. Cuffle on the elementary school playground. Geiger responded “it will be an ongoing thing” with new installations
continuing.
“Old Business” included repeat information about the final auction list that will be presented at the September board meeting. Plans for additional handicapped parking spaces
at the high school were reviewed; Mr. Geiger distributed information from the low bidder at a cost of $740. Board members asked how equipment replacement plans at different
buildings were proceeding. Mr. Geiger replied that Johnson Controls has been working with the district and subcontractors as necessary. Three units at the middle school will
be replaced during the October break.
Supt. Mulligan began his report; he noted enrollment in the district has dropped. The 87 students in Kindergarten is the lowest, but at the middle school numbers are a bit
larger. Mulligan asked board members if they were comfortable with the training they had, or would they like the facilitator to return, as a special meeting? Yes was the
consensus.
He had given board members a preliminary summary on the FY11 budget. With the state cutting the foundation level, reductions that districts are making, and the state
borrowing billions to make last fiscal year’s payments to districts, he said “The question is will things get so bad that the state doesn’t give districts what they are owed in order
to get out of the deficit hole? That’s the dilemma. Regarding the SRO position, in tough financial times the district couldn’t add that position back. This will be discussed
further at the Finance Committee meeting.
“Consider Approval of FY11 Tentative Budget and Set Hearing Date” led to Supt. Mulligan responding to questions on grant expenditures for Gretchen Courtney Associates.
Originally the total amount of the grant was $180,000. An amount of $30,000 is needed from it for eight days of training, meals, transportation as well as ongoing support. When
the board failed to motion for a vote, and this was in danger of dying, Supt. Mulligan asked “Is this where we’re at? This is one of the biggest initiatives in the district. The
money can only be spent on certain things.” He distributed an outline for the eight days. “Reading coaches desperately need additional instruction. We saw such encouraging
results last year. I hate to pull the rug out.” Administrators and board members discussed other types of training and their costs for comparison.
Gretchen Courtney’s contract wording was reviewed. Going back to the $180,000, Supt. Mulligan clarified that grant had Odyssey math and other things paid out of it. “It’s a very
focused grant.” After more discussion, it was motioned by Ms. Baskett and seconded by Mrs. Moore for a vote. The result of 5-1 in favor, with Mr. Klebe voting “no.”
“Consider Approval of Balanced Scorecard:” this item is postponed because, as Supt. Mulligan explained, “Administrators met again today . . . we’re not ready. We just need
some more time to go over some of the measures. This is such an important document, we don’t want to rush it.”
“Consider Approval of Intergovernmental Agreements with the Village of Riverton and with Clear Lake Township” was explained as a formality for insurance purposes. This
was approved 6-0.
The board went into closed session at 7:22 p.m. (with a short break first) to discuss negotiations, the Personnel Report and the purchase of property.
The board returned to open session at 8:13 p.m. The Personnel Report was reviewed; resignations included Gale Lee, custodian, and Drew Kays, volleyball coach, both at the
middle school. Individuals recommended for employment included: Kris Ragle, second grade teacher; Erica Weaver, teacher’s aide at the elementary school; Roger
Chapman and Joshua Crawford, both custodians at the high school; Ashley Esker, sixth grade girls basketball coach; Laura Moore and Courtney Ifft, head and volunteer
coaches for high school cross country, respectively. These were all approved 6-0.
“Consider Approval of the REA Contract for the 2010-2011 school year” was postponed, as negotiations are not completed, per Mr. Nonneman.
“Consider Approval of Support Staff Salaries for FY11” was also postponed, as it is typically connected to the REA contract’s approval, Mr. Nonneman also said.
“Announcements and Discussion” included the scheduling of a Finance Committee meeting, to discuss the SRO position. Supt. Mulligan will get that date out to members.
Trustee Pat Faires asked if they wanted the village’s Public Safety Committee to attend that meeting? “Yes” was the superintendent’s response.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:16 p.m.
Issue Date: Aug. 12, 2010
