2015-35
MAY
Exhibit 1a
INDEPENDENCE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
SPECIAL BOARD MEETING – May 7, 2015
Independence Board of Education
President Narduzzi called the meeting to order at 7:30 a.m.
Responding to Roll Call: Mr. Avila, Mr. Fortlage, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Synek, Mr. Narduzzi
Also present: Superintendent Marlow and Treasurer Koehler
M15-39 Mrs. Laski made a motion to go into Executive Session at 7:30 a.m., for the appointment, employment, dismissal discipline, promotion, demotion or compensation of an employee or official; seconded by Mr. Synek.
Mr. Tim Skoczen was invited into executive session at 7:30 and excused approximately 7:50.
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mrs. Laski, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Executive Session, approved
M15-40 Mr. Synek made a motion to Adjourn at 8:23 a.m.; seconded by Mr. Narduzzi.
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Synek, Mr. Narduzzi, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Fortlage,
Voting Nay: None
Adjournment, approved
The meeting was adjourned at 8:23 a.m.
President – Jerry Narduzzi
Treasurer – Eric Koehler
(Approved: June 23, 2015 – Regular Meeting)
Exhibit 1b
INDEPENDENCE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
REGULAR BOARD MEETING – May 19, 2015
Independence Board of Education
Mr. Narduzzi called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
Responding to Roll Call: Mr. Avila, Mr. Fortlage, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Synek, Mr. Narduzzi
Also present: Superintendent Marlow and Treasurer Koehler
M15-41 Mr. Narduzzi made a motion to go into Executive Session at 6:10 p.m., for the appointment, employment, dismissal, discipline, promotion, demotion or compensation of an employee or official; seconded by Mr. Synek.
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Narduzzi, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mr. Fortlage, Mrs. Laski,
Voting Nay: None
Executive Session, approved
Reconvened to Regular Session at 7:14 p.m
Preliminary Procedure
Pledge of Allegiance: Independence Primary School – May 2015 Students of the Month:
Kindergarten – Bradley Kalal Grade 2 – Sasha Patterson Grade 4 – Ashley Exl
Grade 1 – Anna Jirmasek Grade 3 – Wyatt Snyder
Presentation – Ms. Nancy Bydash – Retirement Proclamation
Approval of the recording of the previous meeting(s):
a. April 21, 2015 – Regular Meeting Ex. 1a
M15-42 Mr. Synek made a motion to approve the minutes of the April 21, 2015, Regular Meeting; seconded by Mrs. Laski (Exhibit 1a)
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Synek, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Avila, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Abstain: Mr. Fortlage
April 21, 2015 Regular Meeting, approved
TREASURER – FINANCE REPORTS:
Financial Statements – April 2015 – for approval Ex. 2
Investment Report – April 2015 – for approval Ex. 3
M15-43 Mr. Fortlage made a motion to approve the Financial Statement – April 2015 (Exhibit 2); seconded by Mr. Synek.
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Financial Statement –April 2015, approved
M15-44 Mrs. Laski made a motion to approve the Investment Report – April 2015 (Exhibit 3); seconded by Mr. Synek.
Investments (April 2015)
EX. 3
TYPE
/BANK
/YIELD AMT.
/%
Rate /DAYS
/MTD
INTEREST
/CYD INTERST
Pool
/STAR Ohio
/$753,440.76
/.04
/Cont.
/$37.12
/$137.99
Money Market
/Independence
/$377,417.71
/.20
/N/A
/$56.56
/$245.34
/ STAR Plus /$9,175,178.21
/.20
/ /$1,506.62
/$5,086.34
CD Mat.
/ /$2,000,000.00
/ / /$1,875.00
/$1,875.00
/Total Investments
/$12,306,036.68
/ / /$3,475.30
/$7,344.67
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mrs. Laski, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Abstain: Mr. Fortlage
Investment Report –April 2015, approved
BOARD REPORTS:
Buildings & Grounds Committee:
Mr. Fortlage requested Mr. Marlow to schedule the next building and facility review.
Business-to-School Partnership – Mr. Narduzzi reported that on April 30, the committee held its last meeting of the school year at the Community Room of the Field House. There were more than 10 business leaders represented. Superintendent Marlow provided an update on district happenings. Jeremy Rowan from the city gave an economic development update. Bill Furman discussed the many events that the field house has hosted since the fall. Curriculum Director Roger Howard gave a thorough presentation on the testing that has occurred in our district this school year, which was appreciated by the business leaders, many of them not realizing what has been involved with these new state assessments. Treasurer Eric Koehler also updated the group on the financial status of the district. Two juniors from the high school spoke about their experiences during Junior Shadow Day. The 2nd Semester Guiding Star Awards were presented to Joe Hribar from Independence Middle School and Dave Mantz from Independence Primary School.
Public Participation at Board Meeting
A board policy adopted May 17, 2011, delineates the procedure for public participation at board meetings. A copy of this board policy is available at the tables as you enter the Board Conference Room.
Name:
Bernie Calvey – Mr. Calvey thanked the school system for the excellent education that his son received. He also, addressed the Board of Education in regard to his support for Mr. Wotoweic to remain as the head football coach and for Mr. Skoczen to remain as Athletic Director for the Independence schools. He believes that both men represent the school district in a positive manner and sees their dedication/loyalty to Independence.
Pam Polman – A twenty year resident of Independence addressed the Board of Education regarding Mr. Skoczen’s contract renewal. Mrs. Polman expressed her support for Mr. Skoczen and feels that he is of the upmost character and integrity. She spoke on Mr. Skoczen’s ability to run a multi-sport athletic system which has had success throughout his guidance. She indicated that Mr. Skoczen has built numerous relationships with other school districts and deserves to continue as the Athletic Director for Independence Schools.
George Cuserio – Mr. Cuserio addressed the Board of Education in regards to the Independence High School football program and the retention of Mr. Wotoweic as Head football coach. He indicated that Mr. Wotoweic’s presence is judged by more than wins or losses but his ability to influence and lead the young men, in the football program, in a positive way. Mr. Cuserio indicated that he would like the Board of Education to continue with the original transition plan of head coaches.
Jim Wotoweic – Mr. Wotoweic addressed the board as to the importance of following processes and rules and that communities can be destroyed in the breakdown of the process. He encouraged the board to follow procedures in society when making decisions. He expressed that he was a coach of young men and minds, in which he has seen growth and dedication over the past season while working with them.
Bonnie Loconte – A 37 year resident who’s children have graduated from Independence and who was a former Board of Education member for the Independence Local Schools addressed the Board of Education regarding Mr. Skoczen’s contract renewal. She indicted her support for Mr. Skoczen to remain as Athletic Director for the Independence Schools and felt that Mr. Skoczen was one of the most dedicated and honorable individuals she has known. She also indicated that the Board of Education’s responsibility is to set policy and that administration manages the district. She expressed that since Mr. Marlow has recommended Mr. Skoczen for renewal, the board needs to be specific and provide reason as to why they would not approve to renewal Mr. Skoczen.
Brian Hawkins – A 16 year resident spoke in regards to the Independence High School football program and the support for Mr. Wotoweic to remain as the head coach. He indicated that he has never seen as much involvement and support for the football program. Mr. Hawkins felt that Mr. Wotoweic coaching is not always about wins or losses but about the leadership and positive influence he provides to the student athletes.
Jim Reilly – Mr. Reilly describe the excitement surrounding the new field and stadium renovation. He spoke on his sons experiences and how it was the best team to play on regardless of the record. He described Mr. Wotoweic’s dedication to the students and how he involved all students. He expressed the positivity that was generated when Mr. Wotoweic brought on a special needs student as manager of the team. Mr. Reilly voiced his opinion that Mr. Wotoweic was a great teacher and builder of character for students. Mr. Reilly asked the Board of Education to make the transition of coach work and asked Mr. Wotoweic to rethink staying on and helping with the transition. He requested that all involved come together and do what is right for the team and students.
Cynthia Lusk – A coach and resident of Independence offered her support for Mr. Skoczen to remain as the Independence Athletic Director. Mrs. Lusk indicated that she has worked with numerous other athletic directors, in other districts, and that none of them compare to Mr. Skoczen in effort and professionalism. She also gave support for Mr. Wotoweic and indicated that he has helped to install respect and character in the students and athletes. In her opinion, both Mr. Skoczen and Mr. Wotoweic are pillars in the community.
Jon Wygonski - Mr. Wygonski offered the Board of Education a prospective from a student. He indicated that he has worked with several administers in the past and felt that Mr. Skoczen was great to work with and it would be a shame to let him go. Mr. Wygonski pointed out the Mr. Wotoweic helped him feel as part of the team and gave him confidence in his abilities as a student athlete. He also feels it would be awful for the board to let him go.
H. Board Policies – (Second Reading)
The Independence Board of Education approves the following Policies:
§ Policy 1530 – Evaluation of Principals and Other Administrators (Revised)
§ Policy 2114 – Meeting State Performance Indicators (New)
§ Policy 2413 – Career Advising (New)
§ Policy 3220 – Standards-Based Teacher Evaluation (Revised)
§ Policy 5114 – Nonimmigrant Students and Foreign-Exchange Students (Revised)
§ Policy 5340 – Student Accidents (Revised)
§ Policy 5350 – Student Suicide (Revised)
§ Policy 5460 – Graduation Requirements (Revised)
§ Policy 6108 – Authorization to Make Electronic Fund Transfers (Revised)
§ Policy 8390 – Animals on District Property (Revised)
§ Policy 8400 – School Safety (Revised)
Motion by: Mr. Synek Second by: Mr. Fortlage
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Synek, Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
New Business
Resolution 2015 – 50 – Five-Year Forecast & Assumptions Ex. 4
Be It Resolved, that the Independence Board of Education accepts the Five-Year Forecast Assumptions, and authorizes the Treasurer to submit it to the Ohio Department of Education in compliance with the May 31, 2015, deadline.
Motion by: Mr. Fortlage Second by: Mr. Synek
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Five-Year Forecast & Assumptions, approved
Resolution 2015 – 51 – Resolution Accepting the Amounts & Rates as Determined by the Budget Commission & Authorizing the Necessary Tax Levies & Certifying Them to the County Fiscal Officer Ex. 5
Whereas, this Board of Education in accordance with the provisions of law has previously adopted a Tax Budget for the next succeeding fiscal year commencing January 1, 2016; and
Whereas, the Budget Commission of Cuyahoga County, Ohio, has certified its action thereon to this Board together with an estimate by the County Fiscal Officer of the rate of each tax necessary to be levied by this Board, and what part thereof is without, and what part within, the ten mill tax limitation;
Therefore Be It Resolved, by the Board of Education of the Independence Local School District – Cuyahoga County, Ohio, that the amounts and rates, as determined by the Budget Commission in its certification, be and the same are hereby accepted; and
Be It Further Resolved, that there be and is hereby levied on the tax duplicate of said School District the rate of each tax necessary to be levied within and without the ten mill limitation as listed on Exhibit 5 – Schedule A & B; and
Be It Further Resolved, that the Clerk of this Board be and he is hereby directed to certify a copy of this Resolution to the County Fiscal Officer of said County.
Motion by: Mr. Fortlage Second by: Mr. Synek
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Resolution Accepting the Amounts & Rates as Determined by the Budget Commission & Authorizing the Necessary Tax Levies & Certifying Them to the County Fiscal Officer , approved
Resolution 2015 –52 – Resolution to Transfer Funds from the General Fund (001) to the Building Fund (004)
Be It Resolved, that the Independence Board of Education approves the following transfer of funds:
Transfer From Transfer To Amount Description
001 (General) 004 (Building) $ 3,470.00 Interest on Internal Note
001 (General) 004 (Building) $347,000.00 Principal Payment on Note
Motion by: Mr. Fortlage Second by: Mr. Synek
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Resolution to Transfer Funds from the General Fund (001) to the Building Fund (004), approved
Resolution 2015 – 53 – Acceptance of ‘Then and Now’ Purchase Order
Be It Resolved, that the Independence Board of Education approves the following ‘Then and Now’ purchase order:
P.O. # Vendor Amount Purpose
152255 Huntington National Bank $89,996.25 Bond Interest Payment
Motion by: Mr. Fortlage Second by: Mr. Synek
Roll Call: Voting Aye: Mr. Fortlage, Mr. Synek, Mr. Avila, Mrs. Laski, Mr. Narduzzi
Voting Nay: None
Acceptance of ‘Then and Now’ Purchase Order, approved
Resolution 2015 – 54 – An Agreement with Love Insurance Agency for Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance Program for the 2015-2016 School Year
Be It Resolved, that the Independence Board of Education approves an agreement with Love Insurance Agency to enroll in the Voluntary Student Accident & Sickness Insurance Program for the 2015-2016 school year; underwritten by Guarantee Trust Insurance Company.