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DAVENPORT COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT

DAVENPORT SCHOOLS ACHIEVEMENT SERVICE CENTER

JIM HESTER BOARD ROOM

ACHIEVEMENT SERVICE CENTER

1606 BRADY STREET

DAVENPORT, IOWA 52803

MONDAY, JUNE 10, 2013

REGULAR BOARD MEETING

6:30 PM

The Board of the Davenport Community School District in the Counties of Scott and

Muscatine, State of Iowa, met on Monday, June 10, 2013 for their Regular Meeting. The

meetings were held at the Achievement Service Center, 1606 Brady St., Davenport, Iowa, in

said District. President Johanson called the Regular Meeting to order at 6:30 PM.

On roll call the following board members were present: Directors: Ralph Johanson, Ken

Krumwiede, Nikki DeFauw, Rich Clewell, Patt Zamora and Larry Roberson. Bill Sherwood

participated by phone. Dr. Tate and other administrators were present.

Director Zamora read the vision statement

I. RECOGNITION

Mr. Norm Bower, Development Director of the Davenport Schools Foundation, thanked

the board for their support and provided a brief overview of the Davenport Schools

Foundation. They recognized 36 students who won more than $56,000 in scholarships

from the Davenport Schools Foundation. This year there were three new scholarships-the

Mary Means Scholarship, the Midwest One Scholarship, and the Carol Haring

Scholarship. Ms. Cynthia Haring, Caryl Haring’s daughter, made some brief remarks

about her mother’s commitment to teaching and presented the award. Mr. Bower also

thanked the scholarship committee and donors. Mr. Bower then introduced this year’s

Foundation Scholarship Award winners.

Last Name First Name HS Parent(s) Names Scholarship School Attending Amount Wulf Austin N Michelle Wulf Kathryn Bell Tate Saginaw State U $3000 X 4 Behyl Dylan N Randy and Bonnie Beyhl Kohlberg Lowen U of Illinois $4,000 Wallace Ian C Daniel & Sharon Wallace Helen Pohling - Central Concordia U $1,200 Emory Nicholas N Richard & Dawn Emory Helen Pohling - North Western Illinois $1,200 Tracy Shelby W Spencer & Angi Tracy Helen Pohling - West U of Iowa $1,200 Johnson Jamesia W Heather Jones Dav. Schools Foundation Schol. Iowa State U $1,000 Loter Clara W Pamela Loter Class of 59 U of Iowa $1,000 Garlock Mackenzie N Brian & Lisa Garlock Lisa Arbisser Iowa State U $500 Roebuck Emily C Glen and Diane Roebuck Jane Grady Davidson College $1250 X 4 Swift Makhala C Monica Swift Marie Linke Powell St. Ambrose U $1,000 Minch Zach C Marion Peters/Elizabeth Minch Jerry Jurgens Mem Iowa Central CC $1,500 Shie Emma C Tom & Diana Shie Jerry Jurgens Mem Augustana College $1,500 Christens Alex W Ken & Susan Christens George E. Weis Memorial Scott or Western Ill U $500 Gatlin Sequan C Cynthia Gatlin CHS Hall of Honor, Hester Mem Iowa State U $1,500 Taylor Amanda C Deb Taylor AC=309 CHS Hall of Honor, Meyers Mem U Wisconsin $1,500 Wallace Ian C Daniel & Sharon Wallace CHS Hall of Honor Concordia U $1,500 Welser Jessica C Ronald & Dana Welser CHS Hall of Honor U of Iowa $1,500 Roebuck Emily C Glen and Diane Roebuck CHS Hall of Honor Davidson College $1,500 Cornish Daphne C Mark & Julie Cornish CHS H of H, Keith Jurgens Mem Washington U, $1,500 Schwan Alex C Sara Swisher 309-779-2871 Hanae Fujiwara Wiese Mem UNI $1,000

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Zeidler Stephanie C Robert & Judy Zeidler Hanae Fujiwara Wiese Mem Iowa State U $1,000 Gatlin Sequan C Cynthia Gatlin Buttleman-Arbisser Iowa State U $1,000 Wince Rachel W Matt & Lisa Wince Johnson School UNI $600 Loter Clara W Dana & Pam Loter Johnson School U of Iowa $600 Buckles Sydney W Brenda Jordahl-Buckles Johnson School Coe College $600 Sparks Erick C John & Sue Sparks Betty Nelson Career Tech DMACC, automotive $300 Walsh Jacob C Daniel & Linda Walsh Betty Nelson Career Tech IA Central CC, $300 Witt Natalie C Mike & Darla Witt Betty Nelson Career Tech Kirkwood CC, $300 Westerhof Zackary N Jennifer Ward Betty Nelson Career Tech Scott CC, culinary $600 Hasselman Caleb KC Geri Hasselman Betty Nelson Career Technical Scott CC, culinary $600 Bailey Justin W Pam Bailey Betty Nelson Career Technical Scott CC, welding $300 Lightner Tyler W Jeff & Michelle Lightner Betty Nelson Career Technical Kirkwood CC, $300 Van Camp Margaret C Albert & Patty Van Camp DSF Future Educator Iowa State U $500 Tracy Shelby W Spencer & Angi Tracy DSF Future Educator U of Iowa $500 Earp Adam N Charles & Anna Earp DSF Future Educator St. Ambrose U $500 Stoube Seth W Sean & Dara Stoube Brian Keppy Mem Schol. Iowa State U $1,500 Burney Kristopher W Dennis & Nancy Burney Brad Peck Memorial Iowa State U $300 Doxsie Emily N Don and Gale Doxsie Mary Means Memorial Schol UNI $1,500 Duong Myle C Lan Nguyen & Ha Duong MidwestOne Schol UNI $500 Nash Brianna C Sam & Julie Nash MidwestOne Schol U of Iowa $500 Flesburg Samuel C Larry Flesburg/Judy Wurdinger Caryl Haring Mem Schol Coe College $1,000 Swift Makhala C Monica Swift Caryl Haring Mem Schol St. Ambrose U $500 Doxsie Emily N Don and Gale Doxsie Caryl Haring Mem Schol UNI $500 GRAD RECIPIENTS Kendell Alyssa N Darren & Kristine Kendell Tate -- 2nd installment Luther College $3,000 Reiter Mark C Terry & Nora Reiter Tate -- 3rd installment Drake U $3,000 Meyer Allison W Larry and Susan Meyer Tate -- 4th installment U of Northern Iowa $3,000 Jurgena Emmaline C Vincent and Jill Jurgena Grady -- 2nd installment Marquette U $1,250 Kilmer Stephanie C Mark & Kathy Kilmer Grady -- 3rd installment Elon U $1,250 Roebuck Kelsey C Glen and Diane Roebuck Grady - 4th installment Grinnell College $1,250

II. COMMUNICATIONS (Including Open Forum)

A. June 11, 6:30-8PM, Community Workshop V, Central High Cafeteria B. June 24, 7:00PM Regular Meeting, ASC, Jim Hester Board Room C. June 25, 6:30-8PM, Community Workshop VI, Central High Cafeteria D. July 1, 5:30PM-Committee of the Whole Meeting, ASC,Jim Hester Board Rm E. July 3, 4:00PM-Policy Committee, ASC, Executive Board Room F. July 8, First day to file nomination papers for school board election on 9/10/13 G. July 8, 7:00PM-Regular Meeting, ASC, Jim Hester Board Room H. July 22, 7:00PM-Regular Meeting, ASC, Jim Hester Board Room I. Open Forum for Community Input

Susan Low, 4905 Woodland Ave, Davenport - Thanked the board and Dr. Tate for

information provided and supports open enrollment.

Dan Kivlin, 1028 W. 60th

St, Davenport - Thanked board for not changing Harrison

boundaries.

Robert Saul, 1320 W. 60th

St., Davenport – Thanked board for not changing Harrison

boundaries.

Bruce Atkinson, 1521College Ave. Davenport - In favor of keeping high schools open.

Tim Eckert, 2550 E. 32 St, Davenport - In favor of keeping high schools open.

Clyde Mayfield, 430 W. 16th

St. Davenport - Board needs to consider transportation

issues for families who do not have financial ability to transport kids to school of choice.

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III. CONSENT AGENDA

To conserve time and focus attention on non-routine matters on the agenda, the Board

considered a number of items grouped together as a Consent Agenda, all items were

approved in one motion.

A. Reading of the Minutes of the Last Regular and Intervening Meetings May 28, 2013 (Regular Meeting).

B Contracts

Leadership & Learning for professional development for $34,624.93

C. Personnel: Appointments, Resignations, Retirements, Leaves, Etc. RECOMMENDATIONS: ADMINISTRATIVE Egel, Garet Effective: July 23, 2013 Principal Salary: $105,258.14 Williams Intermediate APPOINTMENTS: CERTIFICATED Benevides, Margaret Degree: B.A. – Step 1 Special Education Salary: $34,438.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Buchman, Kailynn Degree: B.A. – Step 1 Special Education Salary: 34,438.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Costello, Jeremiah Degree: B.Ed. – Step 1 Business Education Salary: $34,438.00 Smart Intermediate Effective: August 7, 2013 Fairfield, Ellen Degree: B.A. – Step 1 Business Education Salary: $34,438.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Gans, Heather Degree: M.S.+30 – Step 11 Literacy Coach Salary: $56,691.00 ASC Effective: August 7, 2013 Hall, Yolanda Degree: M.Ed. – Step 11 Guidance Counselor Salary: $53,724.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Hall, Yolanda Degree: M.Ed. – Step 11 Guidance Counselor (3) Salary: $793.88 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Hatcher, Kimberly Degree: M.A. – Step 6 Instrumental Music Salary: $46,306.00 J. B. Young Effective: August 7, 2013

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Johnson, Julie Degree: M.S. – Step 11 Special Education Salary: $53,724.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 McCormick, Erin Degree: B.S. – Step 3 Science Salary: $37,405.00 Smart Intermediate Effective: August 7, 2013 Meier, Amy Degree: M.A. – Step 8 Music (.83 FTE) Salary: $40,896.59 Adams/Harrison Elementary Effective: August 7, 2013 Nelson, Janae Degree: B.A. – Step 1 Grade 2 Salary: $34,438.00 Jefferson/Edison Effective: August 7, 2013 Porter, Nicole Degree: MBA – Step 1 Business Education Salary: $38,889.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Randolph, James Degree: B.A. – Step 1 Physical Education Salary: $34,438.00 Central High Effective: August 7, 2013 Sadecky, Madison Degree: B.A. – Step 1 Grade 4 Salary: $34,438.00 Jefferson/Edison Effective: August 7, 2013 Schlapkohl, Linda Degree: B.S. – Step 11 Nurse Salary: $49,273.00 Adams/JB Young Effective: August 7, 2013 Schroeder, Alyssa Degree: M.S+15. – Step 11 Literacy Coach Salary: $55,207.00 ASC Effective: August 7, 2013 Wagner, Laura Degree: B.S. – Step 4 Literacy/Math 1-3 Salary: $38,889.00 JB Young Effective: August 7, 2013 Weigel, Susan Degree: B.A.+15 – Step 11 Literacy Coach Salary: $50,757.00 ASC Effective: August 7, 2013 Wyant, Casey Degree: B.Ed. – Step 4 Grade 1 Salary: $38,889.00 Jefferson/Edison Effective: August 7, 2013 APPOINTMENTS: SUPPLEMENTAL CONTRACTS Behmetuik, Scott 12% Assistant Football $3,482.00 Central High Hatcher, Kimberly 6% Intermediate Band 1

st $1,741.00

J.B. Young

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Randolph, James 12% Assistant Football $3,482.00 Central High Schlicting, Mark 12% Track Boys’ Assistant $3,482.00 West High Voss, Candace 12% Assistant Girls’ Basketball $3,482.00 Central High APPOINTMENTS: CLASSIFIED Huff, Kathryn Effective: July 7, 2013 Administrative Assistant Salary: TBD ASC – Accounting Department Hours: 8.0 hrs/day Teel, Jodi Effective: July 24, 2013 Professional Secretary I 10.5 mos Salary: $13.55/hr Wood Intermediate Hours: 8.0 hrs/day RESIGNATIONS: ADMINSTRATIVE Heiden, Linda Effective: June 28, 2013 Principal Years of Service: 5yrs 10 mos Smart Intermediate RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS: CERTIFICATED Burrier, Dean Effective: May 29, 2013 Spanish Years of Service: 10 mos West High Danielsen, Kara Effective: May 29, 2013 Language Arts/Reading Years of Service: 10 mos J B Young Day, Susan Effective: May 29, 2013 Business Ed Years of Service: 18 yrs 10 mos North High Krampien, Nicole Effective: May 29, 2013 Instructional Music Years of Service: 10 mos J. B. Young Lyon, Catherine Effective: May 29, 2013 Music – Vocal Years of Service: 10 mos Williams Intermediate Martel, Marjorie Effective: June 28, 2013 Media Specialist Years of Service: 10 mos Children’s Village West

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RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS: NON-BARGAINING CERTIFICATED Alongi, Jennifer Effective: June 30, 2013 Curriculum an Instructional Specialist Years of Service: 2 yrs 9 mos ASC (+ 14 yrs as teacher before going to Non-Bargaining) RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS: SUPPLEMENTAL CONTRACTS Argo, William 7% Wrestling 8

th Grade $2,031.00

Smart Intermediate Burrier, Dean 12% Soccer Boys’ Assistant $3,482.00 West High Krampien, Nicole 6% Orchestra $1,741.00 J. B. Young Lawler, Thomas 20% Activities Manager $5,804.00 Smart Intermediate RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS: CLASSIFIED Almquist, Rose Effective: May 24, 2013 Title I Family Involvement Liaison Years of Service: 9 mos Jackson Elementary Anwar, Huma Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 3 yrs 1 mo Jefferson/Edison Carminati, Thia Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 3 yrs 9 mos Jackson Elementary Cartee, Bryce Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 8 mos J. B. Young Clinton, Caprice Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 2 yrs 7 mos Wood Intermediate Cox, Mary Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 4 yrs 7 mos Garfield Elementary Huff, Kathryn Effective: June 28, 2013 Professional Secretary II, 12 mos Years of Service: 17 yrs 1 mos Achievement Service Center Miller, Catherine Effective: June 3, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 9 yrs 4 mos

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Children’s Village West Parry, Kimbra Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 5 yrs 1 mo West High Robinson, Kris Effective: May 28, 2013 Para Educator Years of Service: 1 yr 3 mos McKinley Elementary Tillman, Kyle Effective: June 7, 2013 Tech Support Years of Service: 1yr 6 mos ASC ADMINISTRATIVE ASSIGNMENT CHANGE:

Name From To

Swanson, Kamie Associate Principal- Smart Intermediate

Principal – Smart Intermediate

RETURNS FROM LEAVE OF ABSENCE: CLASSIFIED Lawson, Sarah Effective: May 30, 2013 Custodian Salary: $13.03/hr Blue Grass Elementary Hours: 4.0 hrs/day

Motion: Director Krumwiede moved the board approve the Consent Agenda as

presented. Director Zamora seconded the motion.

Discussion: None.

Vote: The vote of the motion was called and recorded as follows: Ayes: Krumwiede,

Zamora, DeFauw, Clewell, Roberson, Sherwood, and Johanson. Motion carried.

Dr. Tate introduced Mr. Garet Egel, the new principal at Williams Intermediate School.

IV. APPROVAL OF BILLS

Motion: Director Clewell moved the board approve the following resolution:

“Resolved all claims presented to the Board having been duly certified as correct by

the Secretary, reviewed by the administration and board members, and they are

hereby audited and allowed as just claims and warrants drawn on the Treasury for

the several amounts. Further Resolved, the payment of claims and salaries be

approved as presented for the periods May 23rd

, 2013 through June 5th

, 2013 with the

following voided check:

# 307340 payable to Brown Industries in the amount of $1,297.00 (Void and reissue)

Director Roberson seconded the motion.

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Discussion: None.

Vote: The vote of the motion was called and recorded as follows: Ayes: Clewell,

Roberson, Sherwood, Krumwiede, DeFauw, Zamora and Johanson. Motion carried.

V. SUPERINTENDENT REPORT

No report.

VI. OTHER ITEMS REQUIRING ACTION

A. Approval of Plans and Specifications for the West Sound and Dimming System

Motion: Director Roberson moved the board approve the plans and specifications as

presented for the Sound and Dimming System Project at West High School. Director

DeFauw seconded the motion. President Johanson conducted a public hearing on this

project and no one came forward to speak. The public hearing was then declared

closed.

Discussion: None.

Vote: The vote of the motion was called and recorded as follows: Ayes:

Roberson, DeFauw, Zamora, Sherwood, Krumwiede, Clewell and Johanson. Motion

carried.

B. Contract for Two Year Literacy Plan for K-2

Motion: Director Clewell moved the board approve a contract with the 95% Group,

Inc. in the amount of $166,493 for consulting and professional development services

for implementation of the 2 year literacy plan for grades K-2 in 11 elementary

buildings during the 2013-14 school year. Director Krumwiede seconded the motion.

Discussion: Director Sherwood wanted assurance this service was not available

through the AEA. Dr. Tate responded it was not and Beth Evans provided more

details. Director Krumwiede asked about reading recovery and how it is being

integrated into this program and there was additional discussion. Dr. Tate added that

every school will now have a reading interventionist. Director Clewell asked about

screening process and tool and Beth Evans described the process.

Vote: The vote of the motion was called and recorded as follows: Ayes:

Clewell, Krumwiede, Zamora, Sherwood, Roberson, DeFauw, and Johanson. Motion

carried.

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C. Approval of Bid for Secured Entrances Remodeling for Smart, Buffalo, Garfield,

Sudlow and Hayes Schools.

Motion: Director Zamora moved the board approve the lowest, responsible,

responsive bid received from Swanson Construction for $295,000 for the Secured

Entrances Remodeling Project at Smart, Buffalo, Garfield, Sudlow and Hayes

Schools. Director Roberson seconded the motion.

Discussion: Director Roberson asked Scott Martin to provide an explanation to the

audience what this project is providing. Roberson noted he has wanted to see secure

entrances for the schools for quite a while and thanked Scott for this effort.

Vote: The vote of the motion was called and recorded as follows: Ayes:

Zamora, Roberson, DeFauw, Clewell, Sherwood, Krumwiede and Johanson.

Motion carried.

D. Policy 501.11 – Attendance Centers

Motion: Director Clewell moved the board approve the policy 501.11 presented by

the Policy Committee and as discussed at the May 28th

Board Meeting. Director

Krumwiede seconded the motion.

Motion to Amend: Director DeFauw moved to amend the motion and requested the

board approve the original recommendation of the Superintendent regarding

Attendance Center Policy number 501.11 as presented at the May 28, 2013 board

meeting. Director Roberson seconded the motion. Director Zamora stated she is not

sure this is an amendment because it drastically alters the actual motion in that it

doesn’t add to but changes it.

President Johanson asked DeFauw to clarify the amendment. Director DeFauw stated

she is moving to amend the original motion so the language of policy 501.11

Attendance Centers would revert back to the original recommendation as presented by

the Superintendent on May 28, 2013. Johanson clarified with Zamora that she was

expressing that she believes it is too significant a change to be considered an

amendment. Zamora responded this is her opinion because what it is doing is

reversing the motion. Johanson asked DeFauw if she had copies of what she is

referencing and she did not but noted the only item that would change would be Item 1

and 2 and provided an explanation. DeFauw stated she would like the board to

consider the original proposal as it was presented by the Superintendent. Zamora

stated the motion states that enrollment at the high school will open and DeFauw is

asking that it be closed and limited only to the high school of residence and that is an

exact reversal of the motion before us and stated it is her opinion this would be a

separate motion.

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President Johanson stated that he believes there is enough of the policy included in

both and said he would allow it to exist as a motion to amend.

Discussion on amendment: Director Krumwiede noted that past practice of the board

regarding policy recommendations and said he doesn’t recall that the board has

amended a recommended policy. It came out of the policy committee and if the board

is not satisfied with the policy then it should go back to the policy committee again.

Zamora suggested taking a vote on whether it should go back to the policy committee

and whether the board is satisfied with the motion as presented. Johanson stated he

intends to move forward and hopes it doesn’t need to go back to the policy committee.

Johanson asked for additional discussion and DeFauw asked for the board’s

indulgence as she had some written comments she has prepared and explained that she

is quite under the weather right now and wants to be sure she doesn’t overlook

anything she would like to address as it relates to attendance center policy and why she

believes open transfer is not the right decision for our school district. DeFauw then

read the following:

“I am not even certain where to jump in. So I will start at my beginning. Like many people in the

audience, I first paid attention to school board governance during a contentious decision-making process.

It was at the time when the District had recommended the closing of Grant and Johnson schools and I

became an active opponent of that proposal. It is fitting that Brenda Jordahl-Buckles is in the audience

this evening because she and I with Alan Guard, Mike Skulte, Donnell Williams and a variety of other

Grant and Johnson parents spent months lobbying, petitioning, and presenting options at open forum. At

that time, one lone Board member was opposed to closing the schools, Patt Zamora. I was amazed at her

ability to remain steadfast and composed. I developed a great respect for her and wondered how she did

it. Unfortunately, I have come to understand that all too well.

I have thought about that time a lot in the last six months. Wondering who among you might step forward

to run in light of another contentious decision. In retrospect however, there is something that strikes me

about that time. Those Board members were willing to make a hard decision in what they believed was

the educational best interests of students. It wasn’t a decision that I agreed with or supported, but it took

strength of character to make that decision so I commend Jim Hester, Steve Hunter, Steve Imming, Rich

Clewell, Mavis Lee, Susan Low, and Patt Zamora for their ability to step back from the emotion of that

highly charged debate and make a decision they believed was in the educational best interest of students.

Let me tell you, I never envisioned a time when I would express respect for that decision making process.

However, there are many things that have happened in the last six months, that I never could have

anticipated.

I’ve heard board members dismiss parents’ opinions based upon their zip code;

I’ve heard those same board members insist parent opinions expressed six years ago should take priority over those expressed today;

I’ve seen board members vote against proposed renovations at our buildings based upon the status of Central’s auditorium and pool and the need for equitable facilities;

I’ve seen those same board members insist that Central’s pool and auditorium must be bigger and better than the facilities at our other buildings while arguing for said equity;

I’ve seen student board members post negative tweets on twitter either during board meetings or immediately after leaving board meetings that criticized speakers advocating for an end to open

transfer;

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I’ve seen families I thought were above it make the same threats they condemn North east Davenport for when change knocked on their door;

And lastly, I’ve seen the one person I thought would ALWAYS advocate for the educational best interests of students bow to what HE called the voice of the privileged minority. Shame on us.

Which brings us to this evening. When we began this conversation 6 months ago, I was guardedly

optimistic. I believed that if presented the facts, this Board would recognize that the open transfer policy

has a negative impact on our students and the District. So I set out to build a case; to point-by-point

refute the reasons people cite for maintaining open transfer. When approached by individuals who

wanted to express their opposition of open transfer, I advised them don’t make it about your building –

make it about the educational best interests of students. You see, that was the beginning – when I was

naïve and hopeful. It wasn’t long before I realized that facts weren’t going to play a large role in this

conversation. That was roughly the time that Director Clewell made his infamous comment that ‘it’s a

free market economy and North should do for North. I find that admonition ironic as free market

economies by their definition do not establish trade policies which purposefully give favor to a specific

supplier of goods. And ironically, North has done for North – but more about that later. For now, I would

like to speak about the recruiting of students. The employees of this district can deny it until they are blue

in the face, but we all know recruiting exists. When searching for a cello teacher eleven years ago – I was

given the name of a district employee. The first question I was asked was “Will you enroll your son at

Central if I accept him as a student?” During the time I have sat on the Board, I have seen student

athletes bounce from school to school because they don’t like their playing time and have seen a

transferring coach blatantly pull the majority of a team from their home school to play at another. Our

Athletic Directors have stood at that podium and told us of the detrimental impact open transfer has on

athletic programming. Parents have stood at that podium and told us of conversations between middle

school students about which high school they are going to and the detrimental impact it has to sense of

community. Teachers have stood at that podium and told us they have to actively ‘recruit’ students who

reside within their own boundaries to persuade them not to transfer and have spoken about the

detrimental impact open transfer has on their buildings. Every 26 transfer students represent a lost class

section leading to reduced resources for our students. Recruiting makes it impossible to establish feeder

systems or to have continuity in curriculum planning and FTEs from year to year as enrollments

fluctuate. Something I haven’t seen considered is the negative impact recruiting has on the student body

of the receiving building. There are a finite number of positions on a varsity athletic roster, in show choir,

or an AP class for that matter. In theory, every recruit that enters a program has the potential to take a

position away from a student who legitimately lives in a school’s attendance center, which is why I

recently asked for the number of starting varsity athletes who are playing for a school other than their

home school. I would like to present the findings at this time.

For the football programs – 28% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

20% of the North varsity roster

8% of the West varsity roster

For the baseball programs - 58% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

8% of the North varsity roster

8% of the West varsity roster

For boy’s basketball - 57% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

14% of the North varsity roster

71% of the West varsity roster

For boy’s soccer - 30% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

0% of the North varsity roster

8% of the West varsity roster

For boy’s track & field 20% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

0% of the North varsity roster

13% of the West varsity roster

Girl’s basketball 29% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

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14% of the North varsity roster

29% of the West varsity roster

Girl’s volleyball 62.5% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

0% of the North varsity roster

0% of the West varsity roster

Girl’s soccer 58% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

0% of the North varsity roster

17% of the West varsity roster

Girl’s track & field 27% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

0% of the North varsity roster

7% of the West varsity roster

Softball 30% of the Central varsity roster is transfer students

0% of the North varsity roster

17% of the West varsity roster

In total, of 125 student athlete positions studied, 47 or 38% of Central’s starting varsity athletes, 8 or 6%

of North’s starting varsity athletes, and 18 or 14% of West’s starting varsity athletes were transfer

students. I will reiterate, open transfer reduces the opportunities for students living within a school’s

prescribed boundaries who must now compete with students recruited to attend that building to

participate in specific sports or programs. Several weeks ago, I read a statement relevant to the transfer

of student athletes maintaining that the transfer of student athletes isn’t about the win loss record on the

field, it is about the win loss record in the classroom. It bears repeating. What do we know about student

athletes?

1. We know they are leaders on and off the field. 2. We know they perform better academically. In a report by then District Athletic Director, Paul

Flynn, student athletes outperformed non-student athletes in the classroom.

3. We know they are more likely to graduate due to increased school engagement resulting from their athletic participation.

So, what happens when academically gifted, engaged student leaders leave a building en masse?

The lack of athletes has led to the cancellation of some athletic programs (sophomore football at North this year) leading to a disparity in programming between the buildings and unequal

opportunities for students.

As win-loss records and programming diminishes, the athletic REPUTATION of the programs suffers.

That reputation leads even more students to consider transferring which guarantees that programs will continue to struggle

While more difficult to measure, you can believe there is a curricular impact as well. Less student

enrollment results in fewer teachers assigned to the building, fewer sections of classes resulting in

scheduling challenges, fewer students in AP classes and fewer building resources as site budgets are

based on student enrollment. We cannot delude ourselves that open enrollment does not have a profound

and real impact on the educational opportunities for students throughout the District.Which brings me to

programming. Many people, even those at this Board table, will contend that students must be allowed to

transfer because all schools do not offer the same programs. Project Lead the Way, ProStart, the

Business Academy at West, ROTC all would be examples of such programming. Let me assure the

uninformed that all of our high schools offer band, orchestra, and show choir. All of our high schools

offer the same athletic programs. “I transferred my student for a specific program” has become code for

“I have heard negative things about that school and don’t want to send my student there.” This statement

has frequently been followed with – “All of our high schools are good but...” and “if you don’t allow me

to retain my ability to choose I will leave the District taking my student and their state aid with me.”

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Which brings me to the beginning. I believe a case has been made that proves unequivocally that ending

open transfer is in the best educational interests of our students – all of our students. The district is quite

able to enforce boundaries while allowing the flexibility that is required for students to transfer for

specific programming, to transfer if there is a health or safety consideration, or NLCB requirements.

Last week, Patt said the elephant in the room was North.

If that is the case, let me disabuse the audience of a few misconceptions about North – misconceptions I

believe are intentionally perpetuated to the advantage of other high schools.

North’s fine arts programs are inferior to those of other high schools a. North had 12 members in the Quad City Youth Symphony, the largest number from any

Davenport school. Cellist Jacob Werner was a featured soloist at the Youth Symphony’s spring

concert and recipient of the Youth Symphony’s highest scholarship.

b. North High School’s Band, Symphony Orchestra, String Orchestra and Women’s Ensemble

each received Division I ratings at state large group this spring.

c. North placed more All State vocalists and instrumentalists than any of the other Davenport

schools; 7 vocalists; 2 orchestra members, and 2 band students with Dylan Beyhl being

recognized as the best percussionist in the State.

d. Jacob Werner and the NHS Women’s Ensemble were named best in center at the State Small

Group Contest this spring and were invited to perform at the Best of Center Showcase this

spring.

e. The North Drama department was selected to perform at International Thespian Festival for

the second time in three years and has been nominated to perform at the American High School

Theater Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland.

f. North High graduates are currently performing in all three Iowa university marching bands

North’s athletic programs are inferior to those of other high schools a. Boys Bowling has had 3 straight state appearances; and were State Champions in 2011, and

2013. One North bowler had a perfect game in last year’s state meet. They were MAC

champions in 2012.

b. North Baseball was the only MAC team to make it to state in 2012. c. North’s Alisha Jones repeated as Class 4A state champion in the 400 meters this spring d. North had 45 academic all-conference athletes/performers in the fall of 2013. e. In the fall of 2013,the Boys golf team was awarded Distinguished Achievement with a team

GPA of 3.45, while the Football cheerleaders, Girls swimming, and volleyball all received

academic excellence achievement awards.

North is an unsafe building. Pre-expulsion and disciplinary meeting data presented in our packets this week demonstrate that North has the less pre-explusion and discipline hearings than

any of our high schools. Furthermore, student altercations, by the principal’s report, are among

the lowest in the state – let alone the district.

North High School’s Academic programs are inferior to those of other high schools. Curriculum is the predominantly the same from high school to high school in Davenport, as

curriculum is established by leaders at Achievement Service Center. Exceptions would be

specialized curriculum offered on only 1 building ie. ProStart, Business Academy, Project Lead

the Way.

a. North has advanced placement classes for Calculus, Biology, English, Studio Art, Spanish, French, Chemistry, Stats, US History, Human Geography and Government as well as on-line

AP course offerings.

b. In 2012 the AP calculus class had 92.3% of students pass the AP Calculus exam and 46% earned the top score; North’s AP Calculus has highest scores in the district over 5 years,

with Biology having the highest District numbers as well.

North High School Science teacher Laura McCreery is the two-time recipient of the National Association of Biology Teachers Outstanding Biology Teacher Award for the state of Iowa and

Teri Weiss won the Excellence in Science Teaching Award for Earth Sciences.

14

Let me say unequivocally that North High School isn’t broken, it simply needs to be recognized for

what it has accomplished. Those who speak about the negative climate or culture at North obviously

haven’t visited the building in years if at all. Provisions have been made to address the programming

needs that have been referenced by this board, and for the health and safety concerns of students and

for No Child Left Behind transfers. I think it’s criminal that we’ve spent the last six months

discussing this and are arriving back at the beginning.”

Director Zamora said she has immense respect for Director DeFauw’s opinion and noted she

doesn’t think that any of us have said that North is broken or inferior in any way. She agrees

with Director DeFauw completely that North is an awesome school, but she just supports

choice and options for young adults.

Director Clewell stated he also appreciates the time DeFauw spent preparing her comments

which indicates the dedication that school board members have. The board has seven

members that are doing their best to try and arrive at decisions which benefit all students in

the district and we all arrive at those decisions in different ways. Some of the discussion the

last several months has been hurtful and there has been some civil war action that has been

created among the schools and thinks this is very unfortunate. Board members represent all

the schools. He said he has heard some of the hurtful comments that have been made about

North and this is unfortunate. We need to do everything to make sure that all schools have

equal opportunities and North, having been built as a middle school, has had a deficit. They

have started from less than West and Central but he thinks over time this board has spent a

lot of time and resources in finding ways to make North the school it needs to be and stated

the programming at North is every bit as good as West and Central. He indicated that his

intent is to think through all the options and if he uses terms like “free market economy” he

is only saying that we all will survive and thrive based on the vitality that we express in our

lives and in our organizations. Dr. Tate has brought us the District of Distinction and within

the District of Distinction there are going to be schools of distinction and Central is a distinct

school since it has been around for 100 years and has a culture which they have earned.

West, somewhat less, and North is the new kid on the block and we need to do whatever we

can to help North along. We have some schools that have a reputation for being less than

stellar and every board member believes those comments/impressions are unwarranted

because we believe all of our schools are great schools. The important thing is that we work

for all of our students and all of our schools. He hopes the public realizes that decisions are

made in the best interests of all students and with not trying to deny any.

Director Roberson thanked DeFauw for her statement and stated he has always believed in

listening to the parents. When parents came from Harrison saying they want their kids to go

to Harrison school and they came to each board meeting and made the same presentation and

what happened. The Superintendent and the board backed off and said you can attend

Harrison school. At the last meeting he stated that if you want to have high schools open

then elementary and middle schools should also be open because parents know where they

want their kids to go to school. When the board says it is in the best interest of students to

go to high school wherever they want to go but then pigeon hole them into elementary and

middle schools he does not agree. He is a firm believer that what kids do in grade school

and middle school is what they will do in high school. His statement all along has been that

he is opposed to opening the high schools if you are going to close the grade schools and

middle schools. It is just as important for the lower grades to be open as it is for the high

schools.

6-10-13 Minutes

15

Director Krumwiede said he also appreciates the time DeFauw put into her comments. He

was elected to represent all schools in the district and has always been a strong supporter of

North High School. He stated that North has not always received everything that the other

high schools have received but believes they are getting there and things are going so much

better at North. There is a great administrator at North and there are some very exciting

things down the road for North. He very much supports choice at the high schools because

students at that level should be able to choose the high school theywant to attend, including

the Kimberly Center. He supports the neighborhood school concept and acknowledged the

comments received from the Harrison area and supported their idea. He reiterated that he will

always advocate for all students in the district. President Johanson asked if Director

Sherwood had any comments and he did not.

Director DeFauw reminded fellow board members that until this evening she has never

presented a fact or consideration as related to open transfer and her opposition to it that was

specific to North High School. President Johanson addressed Krumwiede’s concern earlier

about the policy process but also stated he is hopeful this policy will not go back to the policy

committee at this point. Relative to the amendment that is currently being discussed, he

appreciates the sense of consistency that would be available if the board accepted the

amendment. The amendment acknowledges the Superintendent’s recommendation from

May 28, 2013 which acknowledges the Diversity Plan. This policy does address the

Diversity Plan, however, the diversity plan isn’t generally acknowledged if we accept the

first section which says that high school parents and guardians may enroll their students in

any high school they choose regardless of the attendance center area in which the family

resides. Johanson stated he does have difficulty with this aspect of the policy.

Vote on the amendment: Ayes: DeFauw, Roberson, and Johanson. Nays: Clewell, Zamora,

Krumwiede, Sherwood. Motion failed and amendment failed.

Discussion on original motion: Director DeFauw asked for more indulgence from the board

to put forward a suggested alternative to the attendance center policy for discussion.

President Johanson noted the discussion needs to be relevant to the policy under discussion

and DeFauw responded that is was relevant. Director Zamora suggested the board is taking a

giant step backward and rehashing what has been covered again and again. DeFauw stated

she can’t make that statement without hearing what the alternative is first. DeFauw

distributed a handout outlining an alternative plan for discussion. Her alternative reads as

follows:

The Board affirms the DCSD as a District of Choice. As such, it is counter-intuitive to restrict school

enrollment based upon prescribed attendance center boundaries. Therefore, the following will take affect

beginning with the 2014 – 2015 school year:

1. The administration will determine the optimal A to B school ratio for elementary, intermediate

and high school populations as well as the optimal enrollment for each attendance

center/building in the District.

2. All students will be required to apply for enrollment at the building of their choice while

indicating a 2nd

building preference. All applications must be received by a date specified by the

Administration to ensure timely building assignment based upon student/parental choice. All

applications will be date and time stamped upon receipt.

16

3. At the close of the enrollment period, the Administration will determine the A or B status of each

applicant. A pool of A applicants and B applicants will be identified. If the number of applicants

exceeds the optimal building enrollment, a lottery will be conducted to determine student

placement. Those students who are not selected via the lottery, will be assigned to the building of

their 2nd

choice.

4. Students will be guaranteed enrollment at their attendance center of choice until matriculating to

the next educational level. (ie. Elementary to middle school, middle school to high school)

5. In the 2015 – 16 school year and each year thereafter, students entering kindergarten, 6th grade

and 9th grade will apply for enrolment at the building of their choice following the process

described above.

6. After securing enrollment at the building of choice, transfer will only be considered for the

following reasons:

a. Health, safety or security of students or staff; b. For high school students to enroll in a specialized program of study that is only offered in a

specific building;

c. Transfers which are permitted by the No Child Left Behind legislation.

Director Zamora said she respects the time and work put into providing this alternative, but

this sounds very complex so she supports the original motion. Director Roberson stated

based on what he has heard from other parents he would like the board to consider this

alternative. Also, he has never heard anyone be told their opinion could not be voiced at the

board table and we almost did that tonight and stated he hopes that we would be respectful of

each and every board member’s opinion and let them deliver that message.

Director Clewell voiced appreciation for Director DeFauw’s additional work on this

alternative but does not see it being an improvement over what is on the table. DeFauw

stated she thinks it is a significant improvement in that it not only provides choice for high

schools, middle, and elementary schools but noted the board has heard many comments

saying that limiting choice to high schools is not respecting the decisions that other parents

might like to make for their own students. Director Krumwiede reminded the board why the

conversation about boundary changes was started in the first place and that was because of

overcrowding at some of the elementary schools. His concern is that if we open elementary

schools we will probably have additional overcrowding issues and said he supports the

original recommendation.

Director DeFauw said she must not have been clear in stating that the alternative includes the

provision for administration to establish the optimal enrollment for each building as well as

the optimal A to B ratio for each building. Director Krumwiede stated he understands what

she is proposing, but with this type of a transfer situation we would be back to a situation like

we possibly had at Harrison. Krumwiede offered the following example: If you fill Harrison

and cap it off and then someone moves across the street from Harrison they would not be

able to attend their neighborhood school which would be right across the street. This is a

grave concern of his and this alternative would probably lead to more instances of this type

of situation. People who live in a certain neighborhood should be able to go to the school in

their neighborhood especially at the elementary level.

Director Roberson said he has been talking about the overcrowded conditions at Harrison for

a long time and that something needed to be done especially since new houses were being

built in that area. He doesn’t understand how we can say that is good for high school students

6-10-13 Minutes

17

to have choice but there is no choice at the elementary or middle school level. He said he

will not support the policy as presented. Director DeFauw said she has every confidence

the administration could determine a proper formula by which they could anticipate incoming

students and ensure that families within the area are still able to enroll. Clewell said he had

given the idea of opening all the schools strong thought in the past, but in talking to people

he said he came to realize he was looking at it from a narrow perspective. If we allowed

students to open enroll out of some of the poorer schools , it would allow those students

whose parents have more income to transfer their students to another school leaving those

students without in a school that would be inherently unequal and would result in increased

isolation of socio-economically deprived students.

President Johanson asked Sherwood if he had any comments and he did not. Johanson said

this idea is pretty exciting and did vote for opening the high schools and thought this was the

right thing to do at the time. He said that Director Roberson has been consistent in saying

what is good at the high school level is good for all of us. Opening all schools to all students

acknowledges consistency and he stated he can apply the same reasoning and arguments for

opening the high schools to all levels. It is hard for him philosophically to allow open

enrollment at the high school but not at the other levels. This alternative could be one of

those big ideas that makes this district really different and could be a great opportunity.

Dr. Tate stated he didn’t intend to enter the discussion but needs to say that transportation

would have to be a consideration for this alternative to be considered. We need to have

transportation boundaries if we don’t have physical boundaries for schools because how will

it be decided who is transported. We have to have restrictions since we can’t afford a

restriction-less transportation system. If there are restrictions, he noted Mr. Mayfield’s

comments during open forum that some parents can’t afford to go across lines so this also

needs to be a consideration. Johanson stated he had considered the issues with

transportation but the vote will determine the next step.

Vote on the original motion: Ayes: Clewell, Zamora, Sherwood, Krumwiede.

Nays: Roberson, DeFauw, Johanson. Motion carried and policy passed as written.

D. District Diversity Plan

Motion: Director Clewell moved the board approve the attached change to the Davenport

Community School District Diversity Plan Adopted February 11, 2008. The only change

being additional language on the page titled “Diversity Plan Reference Chart and School

Ratio.” Director Krumwiede seconded the motion.

Discussion: Director DeFauw moved to amend the motion to revert to the original plan that

was presented on May 28, 2013 which would eliminate the language in red indicated on the

plan currently being presented which would make the diversity plan ratios applicable to the

high schools. Director Roberson seconded the motion.

Director Sherwood asked for clarification on the amendment. President Johanson explained

the motion to amend is regarding the Diversity Plan Reference Chart & School Ratio

handout. The amendment would eliminate the words “elementary and middle school” in the

bottom paragraph in two locations which would apply the Diversity Plan to all schools.

18

Director Krumwiede noted they just approved open enrollment at the high schools and asked

if the Diversity Plan would take precedence over the previous vote to approve the open

enrollment. DeFauw stated that her point in making the amendment is that it would

maintain an A to B ratio for our buildings regardless of providing for open transfer between

high schools. Her concern is this ratio is used to deny families out-of- district open

enrollment and if we now say that it doesn’t matter for our high schools then any family that

has been denied open enrollment out- of- district based on this plan may have grounds to

litigate to be allowed to transfer out- of- district. It could be argued that if we don’t need the

plan then why are we enforcing the plan upon them. Director Krumwiede stated he is very

concerned because why would we pass an open enrollment plan if everything would be based

on the diversity plan. DeFauw said she is looking at the implications for the out-of-district

open enrollment and believes we need to have established ratios in order to implement the

diversity plan as it relates to out-of-district transfers. To say that the ratio no longer applies

to the high schools can be taken to mean that it no longer applies to the out-of-district

transfer request and this would ensure that anyone who applies for out-of –district transfer at

the high school level would be allowed to do it.

Director Sherwood stated there are other districts in the state that have similar plans and they

are mainly concerned about their district ratio and this is what controls the out flow of people

to other districts. This is a back door way of shutting down transfers at the high school

level. He is not concerned and doesn’t think it will impact transfers between districts.

Director Zamora noted that our high schools, with open enrollment, have evened out nicely

and have a very balanced and diverse enrollment and this has been true since the high schools

were opened a number of years ago. Krumwiede referred to the exciting ideas from the

District of Distinction committees which will add diversity to all of our high schools and

stated he does not support the amendment. Director Roberson noted the board has not

answered Director DeFauw’s question as to whether we are legally at risk and asked whether

legal counsel needs to review this plan again. Johanson clarified that at this point we are

only voting on the amendment to the plan. Director Zamora suggested going forward and

Johanson said he will get a legal opinion at a later date.

Vote on amendment: Ayes: DeFauw, Roberson, Johanson. Nays: Clewell, Zamora,

Sherwood, Krumwiede. Motion failed and the amendment failed.

Discussion on original motion: Director Clewell expressed his appreciation to the

administration on the work they have put into the Diversity Plan and noted there has

been considerable consultation with the school’s attorney and trusts the language that

is currently being used is fine. Dr. Tate said he sent the previous language to the

attorney and she approved that language, but the attorney has not seen the most recent

revision.

6-10-13 Minutes

19

Director Roberson noted again that he is still concerned that DeFauw’s question has

not been answered. Johanson clarified that all previous documents have been

reviewed by the school’s attorney, but the current changes that restrict the application

of the Diversity Plan to the elementary and middle schools students has never been

reviewed by our counsel. He stated that minor change and /or tweaks are allowed.

There was a discussion about whether there was a rush to approve this tonight.

Zamora stated the board should vote tonight and if changes are necessary these

changes can be made later. Sherwood reiterated that it is highly unlikely that it would

affect out-of-district transfers and that we need to vote on this tonight.

Vote on original motion: Ayes: Clewell, Krumwiede, Zamora, Sherwood. Nays:

DeFauw, Roberson, Johanson. Motion carried.

VII. DISCUSSION

A. Superintendent Final Boundary Recommendations

Dr. Tate explained that the final vote for boundary recommendations will take place June

24th

, 2013 and noted that the board had received copies of the current and proposed feeder

system; the current boundary utilization; the A-B ratio chart; and the sequence for

implementing boundary changes or grandfathering. Scott Martin displayed maps of each

school showing current and recommended boundaries. Some of the major changes to the

recommendations made previously by Dr. Tate include no changes to the present Harrison

Elementary School Boundary and an area containing about 60 current Eisenhower

students in the northeast part of the city was going to be assigned to McKinley Elementary

through boundary changes. That change has been rescinded, and it is recommended that

the area continue to be part of the Eisenhower attendance area.

Dr. Tate clarified he would be asking the board to vote on Administrative Regulation

501.12A. Director Zamora clarified that in light of the this evening’s vote to keep high

schools open, item #10 on handout regarding sequencing would no longer be relevant. Dr.

Tate stated that would be correct. Director DeFauw recommended the revisions be

effective until the next school year explaining that students have already participated in

kindergarten round- up, orientation for middle schools, and signed up for high school

classes so to enforce these beginning in the fall would be a bad decision. Director Clewell

asked the administration for a response to DeFauw’s recommendations. Dr. Tate referred

to the grandfathering process and it was determined that the current steps would address

DeFauw’s concern. Several board members expressed their appreciation for the

administration’s work on the boundaries and incorporating the grandfathering process.

President Johanson asked Scott for additional detail concerning the Hickory Hills area

around Bluegrass and Buffalo. Director Roberson left meeting at 9:23p.m.

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B. Hazard Mitigation Plan

Scott Martin introduced Laura Berkley, Senior Planner with the Bi-State Regional

Commission. Scott explained that in order for the district to be eligible to receive FEMA

funds it must have a board and state approved hazard mitigation plan. The board would

adopt the plan by resolution. Ms. Berkley provided an overview of the hazard mitigation

plan. She reviewed the four types of funds that could be available and discussed the

benefits of having a hazard mitigation plan. She discussed the hazard scoring process and

the goals determined by the plan and the plan maintenance process. The ultimate goal is

to merge this plan with the Scott County plan. She reviewed the steps they took to gather

public input and results of survey questions. She reviewed next steps and reiterated the

board needs to adopt the plan by resolution pending FEMA approval.

Director Clewell asked who at the state will review the plan and for more details regarding

the public input process. She stated the Homeland Security Emergency Management

Division at the State would review the plan and provided more details about the public

input process. President Johanson asked for more details concerning her position,

location of the organization, and the district’s partnership with Bi-State. Johanson asked if

the board could change the prioritization of the plan if necessary when the plan is

presented and Laura responded this is permitted and that the board has final say.

VIII. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS

None.

IV. BOARD REPORTS/REQUESTS

President Johanson reported on the ALICE training he and Director Sherwood attended

June 6th

and 7th

. There was great representation from the district with 62 staff

participating in the training. He said he got the impression that most, if not all, staff is

100% supportive of the approach. He thanked the administration for accessing and

providing this training. They will be presenting a more formal report at a future

meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

Director Clewell moved the board adjourn. Director Zamora seconded the motion.

By consensus President Johanson declared the meeting adjourned at 9:43 PM.

__________________________________

Mary Correthers, Board Secretary/Treasurer