April Anderson

The board meeting agenda included updates on the bond referendum, approval of inclement weather make-up days, and the 2015-16 district calendar. The board reviewed proposals for Workers' Compensation insurance and conducted the swearing-in of a new board member along with the re-election of officers. The superintendent's report covered student and teacher recognition, absenteeism issues, and various district reports. Financial items included approval of claims dockets and financial statements. Contracts for services, donations, budget amendments, and technology infrastructure bids were also addressed. Additionally, the board reviewed policies regarding student organizations and electronic devices, and managed personnel actions including leaves of absence, retirements, and new employment recommendations.

The board discussed several policy reviews, including the Fund Balance and Fixed Assets policies. The Superintendent provided reports on utilities, student recognition, and a presentation. Financial actions included the approval of the monthly claims docket, financial statements, the Activity Fund report, the disposal of assets, and the 2014-2015 school year budget. The consent agenda covered various donations for the athletic department, multiple contracts for health and speech services, software license renewals, and the approval of the district's new homework policy. Additionally, the meeting addressed personnel matters, including contract releases, resignations, and numerous coaching and staff employment recommendations across various schools and departments.

This Dropout Prevention Plan outlines strategies to reduce student retention rates in early grades and increase graduation rates for specific subgroups, including students with disabilities, English Learners, and bottom quartile students. It also details initiatives for dropout recovery for students aged 17-21, extends transition programs for students from Juvenile Detention Centers, and refines the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) program. Additionally, the plan includes a restructuring component for Canton High School, aiming to increase its graduation rate, personalize pathways to postsecondary success, and enhance college and career readiness.

The board addressed various operational and financial items, including plans to advertise for road repairs at Canton High School, professional floor cleaning services, and the demolition of the old Canton Elementary School. Financial approvals covered claims dockets, disposal of fixed assets, and a new residential contract for 16th section land. Several agreements were discussed, notably a memorandum of understanding for real estate certification classes. Personnel matters included numerous leaves of absence, resignations, retirements, reassignments, and new hires across multiple district facilities. Additionally, the board approved several consent agenda items such as summer programs, staff travel, and student transfers.

The board met to conduct a discussion and vote on whether to enter an order requesting the Madison County Election Commission to hold a special election to fill the unexpired term of a former school board member.