The regular monthly meeting of the Mount Vernon Community School District School Board was held on October 10, 2022. The following topics were addressed during the meetings:
Approval of Agenda: The meeting agenda was approved after a few amendments.
Superintendent Report: Dr. Batenhorst spoke of the continued positive start of the school year academically and in all activities.
Public Comments: No public comments were offered during the meeting.
Program Division:
Board Goal Setting: The members of the Board engaged in a goal-setting exercise; discussing the priorities of the Board that focus on recruiting and retaining quality staff members, supporting the academic growth of students, and remaining engaged with the community.
Legislative Priorities: The Board established its legislative priorities that will be shared with the Iowa Association of School Boards (IASB), which will assist the IASB in its lobbying efforts on behalf of public education. Their legislative priorities address Supplemental State Aid, teacher retention, and the mental health needs of students.
i-Jag Presentation: Charles Chatman from Mount Vernon High School provided the Board with information regarding the i-Jag program that provides academic, social-emotional, and career support for students in need of additional support.
Personnel Division: Dr. Batenhorst provided initial information regarding possible new staffing for next year. He also discussed the work completed in the initial Labor Management Committee focused on recruiting and retaining quality staff members.
The Board approved the hiring of a support staff member for immediate hire.
Facility Division: Dr. Batenhorst provided details on the bidding process for the proposed Mustang Activities Complex. The low bid came from Larson Construction at $5,549,000 for the base bid, and an additional $385,000 for the four bid alternate items. The Board will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at 8:30 p.m., to consider the bid and possible approval of the project.
Administrative Division: No agenda items were addressed in the Administrative Division portion of the meeting.
Reports: No reports were offered by Board members.
Unfinished Business: The Board discussed attendance at the upcoming IASB Convention, and selecting a delegate to represent the district at the convention.
Consent Agenda: All items in the Consent Agenda were approved as presented.
Next Meeting: The next regular meeting of the School Board will take place on Monday, November 14, 2022. The Board will also hold a special meeting on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, at 8:30 p.m., to discuss the proposed activities complex and possibly approve its completion.