|
District Office: Phone: 708-258-0991 |
|
|
PEOTONE COMMUNITY UNIT SCHOOL DISTRICT #207-U
PEOTONE HIGH SCHOOL
REGULAR MEETING
MEDIA CENTER
FEBRUARY 21, 2011
ROLL CALL
At 7:02 p.m. President Bettenhausen called the regular meeting to order and requested all present to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. A roll call was taken and the following members answered aye: Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Virgl, Mr. Baumgartner, Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
VISITOR’S LOG
No visitor’s signed the Visitor’s Log.
SPEAKER’S LOG
The following people signed the Speaker’s Log: Vicki Moore of Monee, Robyn Greenfield of Monee, Melody Gass of Monee, Peggy Marchionda of Peotone, David Taylor of Peotone, Linzey Huey of Monee, Jacob Hilliard of Monee, Christine Taylor of Peotone, Denise Schubbe of Peotone, Kirsten Steeves of Peotone, Becca Janes of Peotone, Meghan Price of Peotone, Judy Ogalla of Monee, JudiAnn Paw of Monee, Lane Heatherwick of Peotone, and Sherri Lensing of Manhattan.
MINUTES
Dr. McKinney requested a change to the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of January 18, 2011. Mrs. Schlickman has been working on an anti-bullying program with the junior high girls. The program is going well and there are plans to begin an anti-bullying program for the junior high boys. These changes will be reflected in the minutes. Mr. Virgl made a motion to approve the Minutes of the Special Meeting of January 12, 2011, the Minutes of the Regular Meeting and Executive Session of January 18, 2011 reflecting the changes as requested. Mr. Baumgartner seconded the motion and on a voice vote there were seven (7) ayes and no nays.
FINANCE REPORTS
Mr. Rademacher made a motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report as presented by the administration.
Mr. Nugent seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Baumgartner, Mr. Rademacher and
Mr. Bettenhausen.
Mr. Rademacher made a motion to approve the Imprest Fund Bills as presented by the administration. Mr. Baumgartner seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Baumgartner, Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
Mr. Rademacher made a motion to approve the General Fund Bills as presented by the administration. Mr. Virgl seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Baumgartner,
Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
GOOD NEWS:
ACADEMIC STUDENT OF THE MONTH
President Bettenhausen presented a certificate and commendation to the January Board of Education Academic Student of the Month, Michaela Minock, daughter of Michael and Karen Minock of Peotone. Michaela is a freshman at Peotone High School with a grade point of 5.0 and ranks first in her class of 169 students based on grade point average. She is actively involved in numerous extracurricular activities which include: Scholastic Bowl, Math Club, Speech Club, Teens Against Drugs, International Culture Club. Michaela has a special interest in dance.
President Bettenhausen presented a certificate and commendation to the February Board of Education Academic Student of the Month, Katelyn Boicken, daughter of Steve and Michelle Hessler of Peotone and Kevin Boicken of Beecher. Katelyn is a senior at Peotone High School with a grade point of 4.523 and ranks thirteenth in her class of 163 students based on grade point average. She is actively involved in numerous extracurricular activities which include: Student Council, International Culture Club and Challenge Leadership. Katelyn will be attending college in the fall majoring in social
work.
JUNIOR HIGH STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
President Bettenhausen presented a certificate and commendation to recognize the following Peotone Junior High School January Students of the Month:
Nicholas Newton
Student of the Month
Sixth Grade
Logan Miller, Seventh Grade Student of the Month and Tatiana Picon-Paez, Eighth Grade Student of the Month were not present for the presentation.
RESOLUTIONS
President Bettenhausen presented a certificate and commendation to John Ruckman. John was selected to the All State Tech Crew for the production of “Into the Woods” which played to over 4,500 Illinois students and instructors at the University of Illinois during Theatre Fest held in January, 2011.
VISITOR SPEAKERS
Vicki Moore of Monee discussed the upcoming referendum question and the informational meetings that will take place. A website has been created that will hopefully answer any questions the public may have regarding the referendum question. The website address is www.207referendum.org. The date, time and place of the meetings will be posted on the website. Mrs. Moore requested that everyone register to vote.
Robyn Greenfield of Monee extended her gratitude to Mrs. Hiller for sponsoring a Technology Night at Green Garden Elementary. Technology night allowed students and parents to experience firsthand how the new Smartboards purchased by the PTO will enhance curriculum at Green Garden Elementary.
Melody Gass of Monee addressed the Board with her concerns regarding any cuts that may be considered for special education personnel.
Peggy Marchionda of Peotone addressed the Board with her concerns regarding any cuts that may be considered for special education personnel.
David Taylor of Peotone addressed the Board regarding the dismissal of Douglas Thurnau, Agricultural Teacher at Peotone High School. Mr. Taylor reviewed the accomplishments of students currently enrolled in the agricultural classes. Mr. Taylor presented the board with a petition from the community to retain the agriculture program under the current leadership and advising of Doug Thurnau.
Linzey Huey of Monee addressed the Board regarding the release of Doug Thurnau and her accomplishments in the agricultural field with the support of her teacher, Mr. Thurnau. Ms. Huey stated she is to receive a scholarship in agriculture which she achieved with the help of Mr. Thurnau. Ms. Huey stated that the greenhouse at the high school was just a storage room for many years and now it is a productive asset.
Jacob Hilliard of Monee addressed the Board regarding the release of Doug Thurnau and his accomplishments in the agricultural field with the support of his teacher, Mr. Thurnau. Mr. Hilliard stated that there have been no state degrees at Peotone High School for many years. Peotone High School now has at least two (2) students that are being considered for state degrees with the help of Mr. Thurnau. Mr. Hilliard reviewed the financial accomplishments of the agricultural department with the help of Mr. Thurnau. Mr. Hilliard stated he would hope the Board would continue the agricultural program at Peotone High School under the guidance of Mr. Thurnau.
Christine Taylor of Peotone presented the Board with more petitions to retain the agricultural teacher. Mrs. Taylor spoke in support of retaining Mr. Thurnau for the outstanding job he has done in improving the agricultural curriculum at Peotone High School. Mrs. Taylor called for a thorough investigation into the allegations that have led to the release of this teacher.
Denise Schubbe of Peotone addressed the Board with her concerns regarding the resignation, release or termination of the agricultural teacher at Peotone High School. Mrs. Schubbe stated that the parents have fought for the return of this program. She stated that the last four (4) years has been the longest time that the students have had a teacher mentor them at FFA functions. Mrs. Schubbe requested that the Board make the right decision for the kids and retain the agricultural teacher and the agricultural program for Peotone High School.
Kristen Steeves of Peotone addressed the Board on how the agricultural curriculum at Peotone High School has impacted her son’s life. She challenged the Board to make a decision in the best interest of the kids and to acknowledge the out pour of support from the community for this program and the agricultural teacher.
Becca Janes of Peotone addressed the Board on how Mr. Thurnau has helped her grow in the agricultural world. She stated that he has coached her through livestock judging and has been a role model for the students.
Meghan Price of Peotone, Secretary of FFA, stated that Mr. Thurnau has been available for any student that needed help with 4-H projects, FFA or their homework. He has shown that he cares whether a student is successful. Ms. Price stated that Mr. Thurnau has given students the courage to succeed.
Judy Ogalla of Monee addressed the members of Board regarding the recent phone system calls to prevent the spread of rumors in the community. Mrs. Ogalla stated that she would caution the Board on considering the extension of the Superintendent’s contract for another two (2) years at this time. Mrs. Ogalla stated that she has been contacted by friends in the school district that there have been allegations of intimidation by the Superintendent. Mrs. Ogalla continued that the Superintendent has intimidated individuals in the community and has violated their rights. She called for a full investigation into these allegations before the Board approves an extension of the Superintendent’s contract.
JudiAnn Paw of Monee addressed the Board with an invitation for the public to attend the Green Garden Dinner Fundraiser on May 6, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at the German-American Hall located off of Center Road. These funds will be used to improve our schools. Mrs. Paw stated that dinner will be catered by Murray’s Catering.
Mrs. Paw requested that the community support the fundraising efforts of post prom and to come to the fundraising events for post prom as this is a very worthy cause. Post prom keeps our students off the streets and out of trouble after the prom. Mrs. Paw requested that the Board review the petitions that were presented tonight.
Lane Heatherwick of Peotone addressed the Board regarding the release of the agricultural teacher, Doug Thurnau. Mr. Heatherwick stated that he has been in business for many years and when an employee did not measure up he would work with them to make them a better employee. Mr. Heatherwick stated that
Mr. Thurnau is a good person and worth working with to make him a better teacher. Mr. Thurnau has devoted himself to working with our students to help them succeed in achieving scholarships and improving their skills.
Sherri Lensing of Manhattan addressed the Board on the fundraising events scheduled for post prom.
Mrs. Lensing gave a brief background on post prom and how it was designed to keep our students out of trouble after the prom. Post Prom Committee is sponsoring the “Blue Devil Ball” proceeds will be used for post prom. Tickets are available in the high school office. Tickets are $30.00 in advance and $35.00 at the door. There will be a DJ for entertainment. No tux or prom dress is expected. Mrs. Lensing invited the public to come and support this worthy cause.
President Bettenhausen extended his gratitude to the public for their involvement.
GRADUATION DATES
Dr. McKinney stated that the school year has been extended due to snow days but the graduation dates will not change. Mr. Nugent made a motion to approve May 26, 2011 as the graduation date for Peotone Junior High School at 7:00 p.m. at Peotone High School and May 27, 2011 as the graduation date for Peotone High School at 7:00 p.m. at Peotone High School as requested by the administration. Mrs. Robinson seconded the motion and on a voice vote there were seven (7) ayes and no nays.
BUS BID
Mr. Rademacher made a motion to approve the bus bid submitted by Midwest Transit for four (4) buses on a five (5) year lease at the recommendation of the administration. Mr. Baumgartner seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Baumgartner, Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
RESOLUTION FOR PARTIAL ABATEMENT OF THE WORING CASH FUND
Mr. Nugent made a motion to approve the resolution for partial abatement of $2.4 million from the Working Cash Fund to transfer to the Education Fund to meet expenses as permissible within School Code. Mr. Virgl seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Baumgartner, Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
RESOLUTION TO AVOID THE USE OF WORKING CASH BONDS
President Bettenhausen stated that Illinois state law will not allow the board to lower the district’s debt extension so a resolution will need to be adopted to fulfill the board’s promise to the community not to issue working cash bund bonds if the April 2011 referendum is successful. Mr. Nugent made a motion to approve the resolution to avoid the use of working cash bonds. Mr. Baumgartner seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mr. Moore, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Baumgartner,
Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
PERSONNEL
Mr. Virgl made a motion to approve the following personnel as recommended by the administration:
CERTIFIED:
LEAVE OF ABSENCE:
RESIGNATION:
NON-CERTIFIED:
EMPLOYMENT:
RESIGNATION:
Mrs. Robinson seconded the motion and on a roll call vote the following members answered aye: Mr. Moore, Mr. Baumgartner, Mr. Virgl, Mr. Nugent, Mrs. Robinson, Mr. Rademacher and Mr. Bettenhausen.
BUSINESS MANAGER REPORT
Ms. Rose, Business Manager, reported that the state owes the district $1.2 million. Ms. Rose stated that a breakdown of the outstanding revenue has been posted on the district website.
Ms. Rose reported that the district is looking into providing food service to the three (3) schools in the district that do not have cafeteria services. The district will be meeting with different vendors to determine the most cost effective approach.
Ms. Rose reviewed the fund balances for the Board.
CURRICULUM REPORT
Dr. McKinney reported that the Mrs. Davis is not present due to a family emergency.
Mr. Preuss reported that the Curriculum Department has been working with Guidance to offer an ACT prep course to students at a cost of $70.00. The faculty has agreed to teach this course. Currently, 85 juniors have signed up to participate in the course. The high school physical education teachers have attended a health seminar and have partnered with the curriculum department to write and submit a health grant.
SPECIAL SERVICES REPORT
Mr. Piwnicki reported that Peotone Junior High School has been working on developing an anti-bullying program for both boys and girls. The program is under the guidance of Mrs. Schlickman and is progressing well.
SUPERINTENDENT REPORT
Dr. McKinney reported that Special Services is working to bring back some of the students that have been placed out of district and create a program that will accommodate their needs in their home school.
Dr. McKinney reported that Ms. Rose will be working with Mrs. Moore on compiling school finance information to be presented at the informational meetings. Their goal is to clarify the information the voter’s will be reading in the voters’ booth.
ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Mr. Wenzel, Principal of Peotone Junior High School, reported the winter sports have come to an end. The Spelling Team and the Math Team are off to a great start. The Spring Book Fair has taken on a tropical setting. The high school guidance department has completed the eighth grade registrations for the year. The junior high school was treated to a sled dog assembly which was a great event.
Mrs. Oliver, Principal of Peotone High School, reported that the winter sports have concluded and the spring sports have begun. All students have registered for classes and the master schedule is three (3) months ahead of schedule. The art students have been adorning the hallways at the high school. They are currently working on a periodic table in the science hallway. Varsity wrestlers did well in Champaign. The Bowling Team had to postpone senior night due to the snow storm. The Dance Team qualified for state and will compete on March 6 in Peoria. Many events are scheduled for the month of March, such as the Battle of the Bands and a St. Patty’s Sock Hop. Teens Against Drugs will be presenting an accident reenactment to the high school students. Tickets for the Blue Devil Ball are
available in the high school office. Mrs. Oliver invited everyone to attend Donkey Basketball on April 8 at 7:00 p.m. in the high school gym. The boys’ basketball team will be playing against Reed-Custer. Mrs. Oliver stated that FFA week has begun and she is scheduled to kiss a pig on Friday during lunch in the commons.
Mrs. Nicks, Principal of Peotone Elementary, reported that Penny Wars and Spirit Week have begun at Peotone Elementary. The money raised last year was donated to cancer research. The special services meetings have concluded at Peotone Elementary. Many of the students that were Tier 2 and Tier 3 have been returned to
Tier 1. The Scholastic Book Fair and Family Literacy Night are approaching quickly.
Mrs. Hiller, Principal of Green Garden Elementary, reported that Technology Night was a great success. The event was attended by 90% of the families. The families were introduced to Smartboard technology. Green Garden Talent Night is scheduled for March 17, 2011.
Mrs. Hiller, Principal of Wilton Center Elementary, reported that the Wilton Center Pancake Breakfast was a success. Many high school students returned to help with this event. Mr. Nagra presented “Meet the President’s” which was reported in the Peotone Vedette and the Kankakee Journal. Mrs. Ostby has received a grant to purchase equipment to teach an embryo course for the students. The eggs should hatch in May.
OTHER
Mr. Rademacher announced that a Candidate Forum is scheduled for March 15, 2011. An announcement will be placed in the student’s backpack as to place and time.
President Bettenhausen extended the gratitude of the Board for the last minute set up by the Tech Team to accommodate the large crowd in the auditorium.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
At 8:43 p.m. Mr. Baumgartner moved that the Board meet in Executive Session for the purpose of the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, and dismissal of other specific employees of the public body, including hearing testimony on a complaint lodged against an employee to determine its validity. Mrs. Robinson seconded the motion and on a voice vote there were seven (7) ayes and no nays.
RETURN TO OPEN SESSION
At 9:52 p.m. Mrs. Robinson made a motion that the Board Return to Open Session. Mr. Nugent seconded the motion and on a voice vote there were seven (7) ayes and no nays.
ADJOURNMENT
At 9:53 p.m. Mr. Baumgartner moved that the meeting be adjourned. Mrs. Robinson seconded the motion and on a voice vote there were seven (7) ayes and no nays.
_____________________________ ______________________________
Roger Bettenhausen, President Cynthia Zeilstra, Reporter
|
|
|
|