Jim Ettleman

The meeting included a public hearing concerning the Athletic Building Renovation and Addition. The consent agenda covered the approval of financial reports, bills, and personnel actions, including the employment of a high school math teacher and assistant football coach, and an assistant girls' wrestling coach, as well as accepting resignations. Reports included a presentation on the curriculum review process, financial updates including December financials and SAVE funding history, and a superintendent update covering legislative and projects status. Discussion items involved a proposed purchase of a used 12-passenger Ford van and the approval of bids for the High School Roof project. Action items finalized the approval of the van purchase, the roof bid award to Drey Roofing, a commissioning proposal for HVAC work at the Middle School from Optimized Systems, and an engagement agreement with Ahlers and Cooney to serve as Bond Counsel.

The regular meeting began with a public hearing concerning the High School Roof Replacement Project and a commendation for TeamMates Mentoring. The consent agenda, approved as presented, included personnel actions such as approvals to employ several staff members and acceptance of several resignations/terminations. The superintendent provided an update covering legislative matters and ongoing projects. Key discussion and action items centered on the At-Risk/Dropout Prevention Plan, which details district support programs, and the approval of an associated application for Modified Supplemental Amount funding totaling $694,569.

The meeting included an Iowa Open Meetings Law Training session prior to the regular business. The public hearing focused on the Athletic Building Renovation and Addition. The consent agenda involved the approval of financial reports and miscellaneous contracts, as well as personnel recommendations. Key reports covered curriculum, finance, and the superintendent's update. Discussion and subsequent action items centered on a Van Purchase, HS Roof Bid Approval, the Optimized Systems Mechanical Commissioning Proposal, and the Disclosure Counsel Engagement Agreement with Ahlers and Cooney.

The meeting included the opening of a public hearing regarding the high school roof replacement project, which is estimated at $650,000 for 47,200 square feet of roofing, with bids expected shortly for board approval. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognizing the Teammates mentoring program, including testimonials from mentors and mentees regarding the program's positive impact on students' futures, academic improvement, and behavior, and a call for more community mentors. Additionally, the board heard updates on the legislative season, acknowledging efforts to revise legislation to benefit patrons and address school budgeting concerns. Personnel updates included accepting a retirement letter and noting upcoming retirements.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda for December 15, 2025. Commendations included updates on the successful starts for the boys basketball and wrestling teams, the upcoming middle school band concert, and the selection of a new musical for the spring. The operational structure for monthly meetings was explained, with first meetings focusing on external presentations and second meetings on internal reports. A public hearing was held for the 2026-2027 district school calendar, detailing changes such as moving graduation to the 16th and ensuring the end date precedes Memorial Day for potential snow makeup days. The consent agenda included an updated personnel sheet, two license resignations offered as early notification incentives, and two additional fundraiser requests. The main discussion point was a report on Curriculum Instruction and Assessment, which focused heavily on the implementation and progress of the Danielson Instructional Framework as the district's PD focus, aimed at strengthening Tier One instruction through shared language and a growth continuum, with initial data showing strong proficiency levels in classroom walkthroughs.