Grundy Reporter

Morris Community High School District #101 Board met March 12.

Here is the minutes provided by the Board:

Present: President Judie Roth Mrs. Kim Puckett

Secretary Scot Hastings Mr. Jim Ringer

Mr. Chris Danek Mrs. Lynn Vermillion

Absent: Vice President Tom Anderson

Also Present: Superintendent Pat Halloran

Principal Kelly Hussey

Asst. Principal Jeremiah Farrell

Athletic Director Jeff Johnson

The meeting convened at 6:30 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.

Student Council Representative:

Kaleb Hefford informed the BOE that upcoming activities planned include March Madness, with random acts of kindness as a goal; a 3 on 3 basketball tournament with monies donated to children with physical disabilities; and Spring Week proceeds will go to Lurie Children’s Hospital.

Approval Of Consent Agenda:

President Roth indicated there was an addition to the FY19 Athletic Coaching Assignments – Brian Kasher as volunteer asst. football coach, then inquired of the Board if there were any items on the consent agenda anyone would like removed. Hearing none, President Roth asked for a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented. On a motion made by Mrs. Vermillion and Seconded by Mr. Hastings the following items were approved:

Minutes:

February 12, 2018 Regular Meeting

February 12, 2018 Executive Session

March 14, 2016 Destruction of Closed Meeting Audio Recording

Financials – February 2018:

Financial Statements – Payment of Bills – Student Activity Account

Facilities Use Requests:

1. VFW annual request to use the main gym in case of inclement weather for their Memorial Day service. Monday, May 28, 2018, 10:30 a.m. (set-up) – 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

2. Annual request - ICS Talent Show and rehearsal – use of the auditorium on April 4 and 5, 2018 from 5:00 to 8:30 and 6:00 to 9:30 p.m.

Personnel:

FY18 Athletic Coaching Assignments

Baseball - Head: Todd Kein; Assts.: Matt Blaine, Mike Muntz; Dan Darling

Basketball/Boys – Head: Joe, Blumberg; Assistants: Todd Kein, Ray Burgess, Mike Muntz

Basketball/Girls - Head: Kate Carey; Assts: Amy Carr, Alex Granger; Vol: Melanie Stevens

Bowling – Head: Harry Banks; Vol: Amy Waldron

Cheerleading – Head: Ali Ergo; Assistant: Abbey Dergo

Cross Country – Head: Joe Blumberg; Assistant: Derek Babson

Football – Head: Alan Thorson; Assistants: John Courter, Greg Larsen, Matt Seidel, Keith Anderson, Justin Zink, Ryan Clauson, Ryan Battersby (ss), Derek Johnston (ss); Volunteers: Tyler Hartley, Kyle Enervold, Brian Kasher, Brandon, Valentine

Golf – Head: Ryan Hansen; Asst: Mike Muntz

Poms – Head: Rebecca Bernardi; Asst.: Megan Carlson

Soccer/Boys - Head: David Valdivia; Assistant: Abel Valdivia, Joe Mireles; Vol: Dave Auwerda, Kyle Schroeder

Soccer/Girls - Head: Kristen Porter; Assistant: Steve Rain, Joe Mireles

Softball - Head: Jennifer Bamonte; Assts: Amy Carr, Stacy Dillard, Amy Shannon

Swimming/Boys – Head: Andrew Porth Assts: Wes Faris, Joanne Engle

Swimming/Girls – Head: Andrew Porth Assts: Wes Faris, Joanne Engle

Tennis/Boys – Head: Keith Anderson; Assistant: Eric Davy

Tennis/Girls – Head: Eric Davy; Assistant: Luke Windy

Track/Boys – Head: Ryan Battersby; Asst: Dave Auwerda; Vol: Derek Babson, Brian Kasher, Brian Claypool

Track/Girls – Head: Ryan Hansen; Assistant: Scott Howell

Trainer – Nicki Meyer

Volleyball – Head: Taylor Lafond; Assistants: Josh Williamson, Laura K. Wills, Hali Steffes; Vol: Scott Howell

Weight Training– Alan Thorson; Asst: Ryan Clausen

Wrestling – Head: Jon Lanning; Assistant: Lenny Tryner, Matt Seidel (ss), Tyler Condon (ss) Keith Anderson

Assignments/Re-assignments-

JD Ragan as volunteer bass fishing coach

Justin Romines as volunteer bass fishing coach

Lauren Hanford will move from housekeeping to security for the school year with an increase of pay for security to $12.50 per hour.

Jeff Beck as volunteer softball coach

Resignations-

Laney Miller resignation as asst. girls basketball coach.

On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Grundy County Special Education Coop – Financial Statement/Bills:

A motion was made by Mrs. Puckett and Seconded by Mr. Ringer to ratify the financial statements and bills of the Grundy County Special Education Cooperative as submitted and approved by the Grundy County Special Education Board at its meeting. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Grundy County Special Ed Cooperative – Staff Recommendations:

A motion was made by Mrs. Puckett and Seconded by Mr. Danek to ratify the employment and resignations of staff, certified staff and program assistants of the Grundy County Special Education staff, as submitted and approved by the Grundy County Special Education Board at its meeting. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

District Report:

Dr. Halloran updated the board on safety and security issues. 2 security staff have been added, the gym lobby is being considered as the main access point to the building from a structural standpoint, and the social and emotional needs of students were addressed. A security audit, to be tied with GAVC, will be conducted including teacher and administration feedback, a comprehensive report will be issued.

Progress in the STEM lab area was discussed: the area is being cleaned and money from the sale of unused equipment will be used for improvements.

Money from the IPRF grant is being used to purchase additional security cameras.

A bid opening will take place on 3/13 on the shared track renovation. If districts 54 and 60c agree to bid costs a BOE meeting to approve the bid would take place on 3/21.

Building Report:

Mr. Hussey reviewed upcoming dates and activities. Prom will take place at White Tail Ridge on April 28th.

45 students are enrolled in STEM, the blended classroom is an exciting addition to the instruction process.

Student participation in a National School Walkout scheduled for March 14th was discussed. Students were open to suggestions by the administration. A “measured response” was given. Students interested in participating are encouraged to stay indoors and gather in the main gym, there will be a 17 minute silence; 1 minute for each of the victims of the Stoneman Douglas tragedy. Classroom instruction will continue as normal and students are responsible for making up any work they miss. The administration is not authorizing the walkout, but respecting the students’ right to participate. There will be no discipline for students adhering to the school process.

Mrs. Roth inquired if a “befriending” program has been instituted as a result of discussion that occurred previously. Mr. Hussey indicated this is being addressed in Rising Star.

The I-8 conference is not at this time considering a new name.

Pause For Applauses include:

• Congratulations to Cody Baldridge, the IHSA Class 2A wrestling state champion!

• Congratulations to Diver Tyler Ratcliff, who with his score of 381.10 earned him a spot at the IHSA State Diving Meet this Friday. Tyler also set the school record for 11 dives with his performance. Congratulations to swimmer Garrett Kirkland who broke his own school record in the 100 Breaststroke. Great job, boys!

• Congratulations to Mya Shannon for advancing to the sectionals in the 3 point shooting contest to be held on Thursday, February 22 at Dunlap High School. We wish you the best of luck in the next round.

• Congratulations to the varsity scholastic bowl team on placing 4th in the Illinois Masonic Sectional tournament this past Saturday in Paxton, IL.

• Congratulations to Mya Shannon for advancing to state in the Three-Point Contest. Mya's will shoot in the prelims at Red Bird Arena on ISU's campus next Thursday. Good luck, Mya. We are proud of you!

• Congratulations to the Morris Mathletes for winning 2nd place overall at the ICTM Regional Math Contest on Saturday, February 24. Five teams finished in first place, including Geometry, Pre-Calculus, Freshman/Sophomore 8-Person, Calculator, and the Oral Competition Team of Dawson Moore and Collin Kingsbury. Winning individual awards were Kiki Ding, Charles Pascual, Michael Escobedo, Alex Brannen, and Kailey Pierce. Two teams, Algebra I and Algebra 2, also finished in second place. Twenty of the team members now advance to the state finals on May 5th.

• Pause for Applause to the Prom Style Show Participants: Briar Russell, Amanda Schmidt, Jared Lines, Madi Mayberry, Nathan Wantland, Anna Thomas, Hali Finn, Tyler Spiezio, Blake Niewinski, Anna Wasko, Joe Corban, Maeghan Eaker, Peter Smyk, Jenika Smith, Trevor Tanke, Jacinda Smith, Jazmynn Geist, Noah McCorkhill, Tyler Dunne, Paige Whalen, Blake Breyman, Paige Valentine, Payton Voitik, Meghan Carr, Nathan Korte, Gracie Wargo, Nolan Feeny, McKenzie Ellison, Kam Dransfeldt & Ashley Hood. Ashley Hood was the chairperson of the event, she did an outstanding job pulling together a very successful show in such a short amount of time. All students are seniors, very proud of performance and the positive attitude of all the participants, we had many who were unable to attend due to prior conflicts. Many compliments and thanks for adding some Pregame Pizzazz. Advisors, Joanne Engle and Zan Higgins. Shout out to Rhett Higgins for announcing the show and the rest of the Higgins Family for Support in Concessions.

• Congrats to junior Jacob Overbeck for advancing in the IHSA Country Financial Three Point Showdown. He now shoots this Friday at the 3A Pontiac Sectional.

• Congratulations to Mya Shannon on being named to the IBCA All-State Team.

• Congratulations to all of the Art students who had their work chosen to compete at the NIB12 Conference Art Festival. Special recognition goes to Emily Backus who took first place in the Ceramics Wheelthrown category, Patricia Dane Cumba who was awarded second place in the Ceramics Handbuilt category and Sara Gonzalez who achieved third place in the Mixed Media Category.

• Congratulations to the Winter Guard on a very successful weekend and on a third place finish at the Lake Park Winter Joust show! Keep it up, girls!

Public Participation:

Michelle Peterson mother of Andrew Kocsik, addressed the BOE relating her son’s path on achieving his aspirations and success in attaining his goal to join the Marine Corps. She thanked the Board and administration for past assistance given.

Intergovernmental Agreement For Building And Grounds Services:

The Intergovernmental Agreement for Building and Grounds (Economies of Scale) cost sharing between MCHS, District 54, Saratoga and Nettle Creak schools for the 2018-2019 school year for waste management, inspections and maintenance was approved on a motion made by Mrs. Puckett and Seconded by Mr. Ringer. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

IHSA Annual Renewal:

On a motion made by Mr. Danek and Seconded by Mrs. Vermillion the board approved the IHSA renewal for the 2018-2019 school year. On voice vote, those voting Aye: All. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

2018-2019 School Calendar Approval:

The 2018-2019 school calendar was approved on a motion made by Mrs. Puckett and Seconded by Mr. Ringer. On voice vote, those voting Aye: All. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Authorization To Conduct A Security Audit:

On a motion made by Mrs. Vermillion and Seconded by Mr. Danek authorization to conduct a security audit utilizing the district architect Green Associates in the amount of $9500 was given. The assessment helps to assess potential risks, a detailed report of findings and suggestions with an opinion of priorities will be provided. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Donations:

On a motion made by Mr. Ringer and Seconded by Mr. Danek the following donations were accepted:

1. Rutland Township - Memorial

Rutland Township has donated $100 to the football program in memory of Wesley Larsen. The money will be used toward the purchase of football jerseys.

2. Quarterback Club – Wireless Head Set System

The Quarterback Club has donated $4197 toward the purchase of a Porta Phone wireless

Head set system for use by the football coaching staff during games.

On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Volleyball Team Trip Approval:

On a motion made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mrs. Vermillion the volleyball team was approved to participate in and attend the Lincoln Land Community College two day tournament in Springfield, IL July 18-19, 2018. The use of the spirit bus for the trip was also approved. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Best, Mrs. Roth, Mr. Stangland, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mrs. Robinson. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Executive Session Approval:

A motion was made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mrs. Vermillion to enter executive session for the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

The meeting closed for executive session at 7:14 p.m.

A motion was made by Mrs. Puckett and Seconded by Mr. Danek to return to regular session. On voice vote, those voting Aye: All. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Regular session resumed at 7:42 p.m.

Certified Staffing Recommendations For 2018-2019

Re-Employment Of Non-Tenured Teachers Leigh Ann Grabowski And Ryan Hansen And Attainment Of Tenure Status:

A motion was made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mrs. Puckett for the adoption by resolution where four-year teachers Leigh Ann Grabowski and Ryan Hansen will be re-employed and attain tenure status. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Hastings. Abstain: Mr. Danek, Mrs. Vermillion. Nay: None. Motion Carried. Resolutions Adopted.

Resolution:

Be It, And It Is Hereby Resolved, by the Morris Community High School Board of Education, District #101, Grundy County, Illinois as follows:

Whereas, this Board of Education hereby determines that Leigh Ann Grabowski be recommended to be re-employed and gain tenure status upon successful completion of the 2017-2018 school year.

Therefore, as a result of this action, the President and Secretary of this Board of Education shall notify said individual, in writing, of said action by the Board of Education of Morris Community High School District #101.

Resolution:

Be It, And It Is Hereby Resolved, by the Morris Community High School Board of Education, District #101, Grundy County, Illinois as follows:

Whereas, this Board of Education hereby determines that Ryan Hansen be recommended to be re-employed and gain tenure status upon successful completion of the 2017-2018 school year.

Therefore, as a result of this action, the President and Secretary of this Board of Education shall notify said individual, in writing, of said action by the Board of Education of Morris Community High School District #101.

Re-Employment Of Non-Tenured First Year, Second Year, And Third Year Teachers For 2018-2019:

On a motion made by Mrs. Vermillion and Seconded by Mr. Danek first year faculty member: Brock Feece; second year faculty members: Stacy Dillard, Michael Muntz and Ashley Vicich; and third year faculty members: Ryan Battersby, Ben Brown And Scott Howell will be re-employed and gain an additional year of probationary status. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Re-Employment Of Jeremiah Farrell As Asst. Principal For 2018-2019:

On a motion made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mr. Ringer, Assistant Principal Jeremiah Farrell was re-employed for the 2018-2019 school year with a 3% increase for a base salary of $73,150. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Re-Employment Of Lori Dite As Director Of Special Populations:

On a motion made by Mrs. Vermillion and Seconded by Mr. Danek, Lori Dite was re- employed as director of special populations for the 2018-2019 school year with a base salary amount of $72,226. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Employment Of Haley Collins As Social Worker:

The Board approved the employment of Haley Collins as a social worker for the 2018-2019 school year pending completion of initial certification on a motion made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mrs. Puckett. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Employment Of Doris Noll As Security Personnel:

The Board approved the part-time employment of Doris Noll as security staff for 5 hours per day and $15 per hour on student attendance days on a motion made by Mrs. Vermillion and Seconded by Mr. Danek. On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mrs. Vermillion, Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

Fy19 Support Staff Salary Items:

On a motion made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mr. Ringer the following FY19 support staff salary items were approved:

1. Support staff salary increases of 3% for the 2018-2019 school year.

2. $3000 stipend increase for Recreation Center Director Amber Sharp.

On roll call vote, those voting Aye: Mr. Ringer, Mrs. Roth, Mrs. Puckett, Mr. Danek, Mr. Hastings, Mrs. Vermillion. Nay: None. Motion Carried.

A motion was made by Mr. Hastings and Seconded by Mr. Danek to adjourn the meeting. On voice vote, those voting Aye: All. Nay: None. Motion Carried

Meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m.

http://www.morrishs.org/vimages/shared/vnews/stories/48b594968e681/2.a.3.12.2018.pdf