Board Meeting Minutes

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, June 13, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, and Jill Niewiadomski, Trustees.

Administrators Present: Tom Cutler, Superintendent; Mike Ostyn, Assistant Superintendent; Tom Szocinski, H.S. Principal; Scott Cousineau, H.S. Assistant Principal; Lance Jones, M.S. Principal; Carolyn Whyte, M.S. Assistant Principal, Joel Schuitema, Elementary Principal; Renae Galsterer, P.C. Principal; John Klever, Learning Center Director; and Jan Lesley, Finance Director.

A hearing was held regarding an update to the Health Education Curriculum. The Sex Education Advisory Board has reviewed the current curriculum and has recommended the changes as indicated.

A Budget Hearing was held regarding the proposed 2005-06 school year budget. Jan Lesley, Finance Director, went over the proposed budget.

President, Paul Roberts, called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:00 p.m.

Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Bob Jenema, to approve the agenda as presented.

Mr. Bob Carr, from the Freestyle Wrestling Club of Grant, presented the board of education with a check for $3,000 towards the construction of a wrestling area at the high school.

Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Kris Lesley, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

a. Approval of Minutes of May 9, 2005 (Regular), May 16, 2005 (Special) & June 1, 2005 (Special).

Tom Cutler, Superintendent, informed the board that summer school begins on June 20^th and runs through August 1^st. The School Aid Bill has yet to be finalized. The district will be able to maintain our current programming for the 2005-06 school year. Dave Robinson was elected to the NCRESA Board of Education.

Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, informed the board that the end of the school year wrapped up great.

Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the board that the interviews for 6^th grade LA and 7^th grade LA/Social Studies are in progress. The end of year honors assembly was well attended with over 1200 awards given out!

Joel Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, informed the board that the end of the year ended very well. The custodians are busy getting ready for summer school. The elementary is welcoming Ted Christesen and Mike Oatis who were hired to fill the positions of retiring Diane Horrisberger and Joan Redinger.

Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, informed the board that the end-of-year activities were fun and exciting. Preparations have already begun for the 2005-06 school year.

John Klever, Learning Center Director, informed the board that even though it’s summer, many area service agencies will still be operating at his building, along with summer school. Mr. Klever thanked the board for their continuing support of the Alternative Education program.

The annual year-end amendments were presented to the board for approval. Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Brenda Wilde, to approve the amendments as presented.

The 2005-06 budget was presented for board approval. Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Bob Jenema, to approve the General Appropriations Act Resolution for Fiscal Year 2005-06.Motion Approved 6-0

The administration recommends the approval of the Health Education Curriculum that was presented to the board in hearings during the May and June regular board meetings. Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the Health Education Curriculum as presented.

It is recommended by the administration to hire to following teachers starting with the 2005-06 school year:

Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Kris Lesley, to hire Lauren Elliott, Corinne Stark, and Brooke Manchip as presented.

The administration recommends the approval of the leave of absence requests for Cynthia Stroven and Kristen Arsenault.

Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Dave Robinson, to approve the leaves of absence.

The following list of policies is being presented to the board for final approval. Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Kris Lesley to approve the policies as presented.

The monthly board calendar was discussed. The board also discussed the district policy on students driving to the Career Technical Center.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in a closed session on Wednesday, June 1st, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Jim Stuart, to approve the agenda as presented.

Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to go into closed session for the purpose of discussing the purchase of property adjacent to school property.

At 5:48 p.m. a motion was made by Bob Jenema, supported by Jim Stuart, to come out of closed session.

There being no motion towards purchasing the property in question, the meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in special session on Monday, May 16, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Kris Lesley, to approve the Board Resolution regarding NC RESA’s Biennial Election identifying Grant Public Schools voting representative as Bob Jenema, alternate representative Kris Lesley. The Board authorized the voting representative to cast votes on behalf of the Board for Dave Robinson and Dave Outwin.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 6:40 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, May 9, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

A hearing was held regarding an update to the Health Education Curriculum. The Sex Education Advisory Board has reviewed the current curriculum and has recommended the changes as indicated. The board will vote on the curriculum changes at the June 13^th board meeting.

President, Paul Roberts, called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:00 p.m.

Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Bob Jenema, to approve the agenda as presented.

Mr. John Klever, Learning Center Director, had Terry Bennett, teacher at the Learning Center, and several of his students give a presentation on the Peer Assisted Learning Program.

Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

a. Approval of Minutes of April 11, 2005 regular & special and May 2, 2005 specials (2)

Tom Cutler, Superintendent, informed the board of the results of the annual school election. This was the first school election not run by the school district. The 18 mill renewal was passed: 439 yes, 155 no votes. Incumbent Bob Jenema was re-elected with 523 votes. The NCRESA proposals for Special Education and Vocational Education both passed. Mr. Cutler also briefly discussed with the board the upcoming NCRESA resolution regarding the election of two members to the NCRESA Board of Education which is to be voted on during a special meeting on May 16^th. The MHSAA remanded the change of seasons case back to the Sixth circuit for reconsideration. There will be no changes in the sports schedules for the upcoming 2005-06 school year.

Mike Ostyn, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, reported that the MEAP results have come back. Grant scores are at or above state averages and are among the best in the county.

Paul Roberts, Transportation Committee Chairman, informed the board that the committee met on May 2^nd and discussed the feasibility of purchasing buses. It was the consensus of the committee that one bus should be purchased and that the engine in bus 94-2 be replaced.

Bob Jenema, Finance Committee Chairman, informed the board that the committee met on May 2^nd and discussed the current financial status and potential financial outlook for the school district.

Dave Robinson, Policy Committee Chairman, informed the board that the committee met on May 2^nd and reviewed the NEOLA updates for the second half of the school year. The updates are being submitted in the action items for approval for first reading.

Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, informed the board of upcoming events including graduation activities, musical concerts and sporting events. The girl’s softball team has broken the school record for the best start at 19-0.

Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the board of upcoming events. The middle school is getting ready to host the upcoming divisional track meet.

Joel Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, updated the board on upcoming events.

Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, thanked the board for the Fine Arts Center. It has been a great educational opportunity for her students.

John Klever, Learning Center Director, presented his student of the month, Shaina Ross.

The NC RESA operating budget for the 2005-06 school year was presented to the board for its review and approval. Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the resolution supporting the proposed budgets of the NC RESA.

After reviewing the feasibility in purchasing three new buses for the 2005-06 school year, it is recommended by the administration that the Board approve the purchase of one school bus.

It is recommended by the administration to hire Brandon Miller as high school Social Studies teacher. Motion by Kris Lesley, supported by Jim Stuart. Motion Approved 7-0

The following list of policies is being presented to the board for first reading. Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Dave Robinson.

The monthly board calendar was discussed. Mr. Cutler and the Board discussed the upcoming NC RESA Board Election and the nomination process. Finance Director, Jan Lesley, went over the preliminary budget for the 2005-06 school year and the proposed year-end amendments to the 2004-05 school year budget.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in a special session on Monday, May 2, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Motion by Kris Lesley, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the agenda as presented.

Student requested that the meeting continue as a closed meeting. Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Kris Lesley, to go into closed session for the purpose of a student discipline hearing.

At 7:45 p.m. a motion was made by Jim Stuart, supported by Dave Robinson to come out of closed session.

Motion was made by Bob Jenema, supported by Kris Lesley, to suspend Student for the rest of the 2004-05 school year with homebound services. Student will be on permanent bus probation when student returns for the 2005-06 school year. For the 1^st Trimester of the 2005-06 school year, student must sit in the seat behind the bus driver. Any infraction on the bus will result in losing bus riding privileges permanently. Motion Approved 7-0There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the special meeting adjourned at 7:48 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in a special session on Monday, May 2, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Jim Stuart, to approve the agenda as presented.

Student requested that the meeting continue as a closed meeting. Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Dave Robinson, to go into closed session for the purpose of a student discipline hearing.

At 7:05 p.m. a motion was made by Bob Jenema, supported by Kris Lesley to come out of closed session.

Motion Approved 7-0There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the special meeting adjourned at 7:08 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in a special session on Monday, April 11, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley (6:02 p.m.), Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Jim Stuart, to approve the agenda as presented.

Student requested that the meeting continue as a closed meeting. Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Dave Robinson, to go into closed session for the purpose of a student discipline hearing.

At 6:20 p.m. a motion was made by Bob Jenema, supported by Jim Stuart to come out of closed session.

Motion was made by Kris Lesley, supported by Bob Jenema, to expel Student as per state law from the Grant Public School District for a total of 180 school days. Motion Approved 7-0

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, April 11, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Administrators Present: Tom Cutler, Superintendent; Mike Ostyn, Assistant Superintendent; Tom Szocinski, H.S. Principal; Scott Cousineau, H.S. Assistant Principal; Lance Jones, M.S. Principal; Carolyn Whyte, M.S. Assistant Principal, Joel Schuitema, Elementary Principal; Renae Galsterer, P.C. Principal; John Klever, Learning Center Director; and Jan Lesley, Finance Director.

President, Paul Roberts, called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:00 p.m.

Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the agenda as presented.

Motion Approved 7-0 Laurie Plakmeyer, Fitness Center Director, was present and gave a presentation on the Fitness Center.

Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Jim Stuart, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

a. Approval of Minutes of March 14, 2005 Regular Board Meeting & March 28, 2005 Special Board Meeting.

Motion Approved 7-0Tom Cutler, Superintendent, reminded the board of the upcoming election on May 3^rd and went over the ballot items. Mr. Cutler also showed a video that provided information on the current State of Michigan school financial crisis.

Mike Ostyn, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, went over information regarding the upcoming summer school program. He also informed the board that the Fremont Area Community Foundation, through their generosity, has provided GPS with $30,000 in mini-grants to be used for special educational projects. Congratulations were given to all teachers that applied and were awarded these mini-grants.

Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, informed the board of upcoming events, including activities associated with the May 22^nd graduation.

Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the board that the students had raised over $4,500 for the Hoops for Heart fundraiser and that the Club’s Choice fundraiser profited approximately $8,900.00.

Joel Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, commended his custodians for their hard work over spring break and also informed the board of the Word’s Finest Chocolate fundraiser starting this week.

Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, informed the board that the Reading Marathon raised approximately $2,300 and that Wal-mart is matching $1,000. Also, the Jump rope for Heart raised over $7,000! Dheanna Evans and Riley Ingell earned principal of the day on March 30^th.

John Klever, Learning Center Director, commended the bilingual program teachers and staff for the fantastic work they’ve been doing in the bilingual program. Thanks to their efforts, 42 Grant students have developed English language abilities to a level that makes LEP services and instruction unnecessary.

This committee, made up of parent members, educators, local clergy, and community health professionals, is put in place as per Michigan Legislature to review Health Education in the school district as needed. Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Dave Robinson, to appoint the following people to the Health Education Review Committee:

Motion by Jim Stuart, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to continue participation in the Newaygo County Schools of Choice program with the following availability numbers:

High School Teacher, Jessica Kissinger, has requested a maternity leave of absence as per the FMLA and the collective bargaining agreement. Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Kris Lesley, to approve the leave as requested.

The Monthly Board Calendar was discussed, along with the upcoming NCRESA Board Member Election process.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 8:07 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, March 14, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

President, Paul Roberts, called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:00 p.m.

Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the agenda as presented.

Kim Urbanski, Middle School Art Teacher, made a presentation to the board on an snow sculpture project that all of the middle school art classes were involved with. The students did a great job creating a super-sized tiger sculpture out of snow banks.

Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Brenda Wilde, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

A presentation was made by Theresa Fetterly, Kristin Keelean, Sandy Towers and Kurt Weyers regarding the Career Pathways curriculum and how it helps students in their long-range planning for adulthood.

Tom Cutler, Superintendent, reminded the board of the upcoming NCASB Spring Dinner meeting. The annual Staff Recognition Banquet is set for May 4^th. Mr. Cutler informed the board that the financial aspect of the Fine Arts Center is closed and that Mr. Lance Stray has been assigned to the High School Athletic Director’s position. PRINCIPAL REPORTS

Mr. Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, updated the board on activities occurring at the high school. He asked the board for permission for the Latin class to start fundraising for a spring break trip to Italy in 2006. Permission was granted.

Mr. Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the board that Cody Nicolas and Allyssa Powell won our Midwest Talent Search and they will be performing at the Dogwood Center on March 22^nd.

Mr. Joel Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, reported great attendance at the parent/teacher conferences. The students will be participating in the Jump Rope for Heart fundraiser the week of March 21^st.

Mrs. Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, reported that her first “Principal of the Day” was Mary Gesler. The students are enjoying “Reading Month” with guest appearances by “Mystery Readers”.

Mr. John Klever, Learning Center Director, informed the board that Ashleigh Myers was chosen as this month’s Student of the Month at the Grant Learning Center.

Three calendars for the 2005-06 school year were presented to the board for their approval. The calendars consisted of: 1) Common Calendar, 2) Semester Calendar and 3) Trimester Calendar. Motion was made by Dave Robinson, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the calendars as presented.

It is recommended that an Introduction to Business course be added to the curriculum at the high school level. The objectives of the course are to help prepare students for a more meaningful and beneficial interaction with business. Motion made by Brenda Wilde, supported by Jim Stuart, to add the Introduction to Business course to the high school curriculum.

The Administration recommends that the maternity leave request submitted by 1^st grade teacher Amy Zerlaut be approved as presented. Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the leave request as presented.

A resolution to adopt the constitution for the new activities conference affiliation (beginning with the 2006-07 school year) was presented to the board for their approval. A motion was made by Brenda Wilde, supported by Bob Jenema, to approve the resolution as presented.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 7:50 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, February 21, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart, Trustees.

President, Paul Roberts, called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:00 p.m.

Motion by Brenda Wilde, supported by Jim Stuart, to approve the agenda as presented.

Annie Pascoe, Food Services Director, made a presentation to the Board regarding the Food Services Department. Mrs. Pascoe informed the Board that the Food Services Department has undergone two nutritional inspections in the last three years by the USDA and has passed both. Mrs. Pascoe gave a demonstration of the new Meal Magic program utilized in the Food Services Dept.

Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Dave Robinson, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

Tom Cutler, Superintendent, gave an update on the May election. Mr. Cutler informed the Board that Beth Lindhout was hired as the Girl’s Varsity Basketball Coach and that the Head Football Coach, Athletic Director, and JV Girl’s Basketball Coach positions are still open. Mr. Cutler, with the help of Board President, Paul Roberts, recognized our Principals in honor of Principal’s Week.

Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, informed the Board that 298 students out of 698 made honor roll. That’s a school record of 43%! The State Office of Career and Technical Preparation came to the high school to videotape the High School Agriscience Program. This videotape will be on display at the upcoming FFA Convention.

Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the Board of upcoming events at the middle school. He also informed the Board that the Middle School had 307 students on the honor roll in the 2^nd marking period.

Joel Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, informed the Board that MEAP tests are completed and submitted to the State. Today’s in-service was spent training teachers on the Everyday Math Curriculum.

Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, informed the Board of current activities at the Primary Center. She also informed the Board that the Primary Center Parent Involvement group has been doing a fantastic job working with the students. They were instrumental in helping the students complete over 100 cards that will be sent to soldiers in Iraq.

John Klever, Learning Center Director, informed the board that he had 15 students make honor roll for the 2^nd semester.

After months of examining the trimester scheduling concept at both the administrative and board level, it is recommended by administration to approve instituting the trimester scheduling concept at the Grant High School beginning with the 2005-06 school year. Motion by Bob Jenema, supported by Kris Lesley.

The Administration recommends approval of the NC RESA Resolution of Support showing our Board’s support of the Headlee Override Proposals that will be offered on the ballot for the May election. Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Brenda Wilde, to approve the Resolution of Support as presented.

The Administration recommends that the maternity leave request submitted by 1^st grade teacher Kathryn Gilbert be approved as presented. Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Jim Stuart, to approve the leave request as presented.

The NC RESA Board Member election process was discussed. Due to limitations on when the resolution can be adopted designating a representative to the NC RESA Board, our board has scheduled a special meeting on May 16^th at 6:30 p.m. at the High School Library.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 7:43 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in a board workshop on Monday, February 7, 2005 with President Paul Roberts Presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde (5:30 p.m.), Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

There being no further business before the Board, the meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in special session on Monday, February 7, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

Motion by Jim Stuart, supported by Dave Robinson, to approve the agenda as presented.

The board was presented with the Resolution Setting Matters to be Voted on for the upcoming May 3^rd, 2005 election. Motion by Kris Lesley, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the agenda as submitted.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the special meeting adjourned at 5:05 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, January 10, 2005 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart Trustees.

President, Paul Roberts, called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:00 p.m.

Motion by Jim Stuart, supported by Jill Niewiadomski, to approve the agenda as presented.

The month of January is the annual observance of School Board Recognition month in Michigan. Mr. Cutler took this time to recognize the following board members for their years of service to the staff and students of the Grant Public School District.

President	Paul Roberts	13 Years of Service
Vice President	Dave Robinson	9 Years of Service
Treasurer	Bob Jenema	4 Years of Service
Secretary	Brenda Wilde	11 Years of Service
Trustee	Jim Stuart	6 Years of Service
Trustee	Jill Niewiadomski	2 Years of Service
Trustee	Kris Lesley	1 Year of Service

Motion by Dave Robinson, supported by Kris Lesley, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

Tom Cutler, Superintendent, informed the board that the Fine Arts Center “punch-list” continues to get shorter. The State Fire Marshall gave final approval on December 29^th, 2004. Mr. Cutler also informed the board of the February 8^th, 2005 filing deadline for candidacy in the upcoming election. One board seat will be up for election at the May 3^rd school election.

The Policy Committee met on December 17, 2004 to review a “special” update of Policy 2112—Parental Involvement in the School Program. The committee has reviewed the recommendations from NEOLA and has concurred with them. This policy is brought to the board under Action Item b for approval.

Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, informed the board of upcoming events including the Senior/Board exit interviews, Honors Breakfast and Snowcoming.

Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the board that the 5^th, 7^th, and 8^th graders are preparing for the upcoming MEAP tests. PRIDE came to the school and performed and invited the 7^th & 8^th graders to a county-wide dance in Fremont.

Joe Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, informed the board of upcoming events including their “Big Event” and Drug-Prevention presentations. The 3^rd graders will be participating in a pilot program for the MEAP. The 4^th graders are getting ready for their MEAPs.

Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, informed the board that the Primary Center will be the home to many student teachers starting next month. The Primary Center staff also sent a tray of refreshments to thank the board for all they do for the schools.

John Klever, Learning Center Director, informed the board that Amado Perez, a teacher in our bilingual program, will be making a presentation on Cultural Awareness to principals and teachers at the Oceana ISD. He will bring this same presentation to the February Board Workshop.

This resolution provides the guidelines to follow in providing notice to the public regarding deadlines concerning the May 3^rd, 2005 election. It is suggested by the Administration to approve the resolution as presented. Motion by Brenda Wilde, seconded by Bob Jenema, to approve the Resolution Calling Regular School Election as presented.

Policy #2112, Parent Involvement in the School Program, was reviewed and approved by the Policy Committee on December 17, 2004. The Administration recommends that the board approve this policy as presented. Motion by Dave Robinson, seconded by Jim Stuart, to approve Policy #2112, Parent Involvement in the School Program, as presented.

Discussion items included: Monthly Board Calendar, HS scheduling being changed to Trimesters, and changes in the WWAC athletic conference.

At 8:45, a motion was made by Brenda Wilde, seconded by Jim Stuart, to convene in Executive Session for the annual evaluation of Superintendent, Thomas Cutler.

There being no further business before the Board, President Paul Roberts declared the meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.

The Board of Education of the Grant Public Schools met in regular session on Monday, December 13, 2004 with President, Paul Roberts presiding.

Board Members Present: Paul Roberts, President; Dave Robinson, Vice President; Brenda Wilde, Secretary; Bob Jenema, Treasurer; Kris Lesley, Jill Niewiadomski, and Jim Stuart, Trustees.

Motion by Jill Niewiadomski, supported by Bob Jenema, to approve the agenda as presented.

Prior to the start of the regular December board meeting, a second hearing was held on the selection of an election date due to the consolidated election law. Board President, Paul Roberts, informed all present that a May election date was selected for approval by the board and asked if anyone present wished to provide input regarding this selection. There being none given, President Roberts turned the issue over to the board for voting. Brenda Wilde motioned to accept the Annual May election date. Dave Robinson seconded this selection. The following Roll Call vote was taken:

At 7:04, President Roberts started the December board meeting with the pledge of allegiance.

Representatives from the following classes sang holiday songs for the Board of Education: Mrs. Gilbert (Grade 1), Mrs. VanderWeide (Grade 1), Mrs. Williams (Grade 1), and Mrs. Golden (Grade 2). Mrs. O’Brien, the vocal music teacher, directed.

Motion by Kris Lesley, supported by Dave Robinson, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented.

Tom Cutler informed the Board there will not be an Executive Order Cut during the “lame duck” session, but should one occur later in the year, we’d be looking at an approximate $160,000 cut to our state school aid funding. Mr. Cutler also commended our students and staff at the high school for their wonderful Christmas Concert at the new Fine Arts Center.

Brenda Wilde, Athletics Committee Chairperson, informed the Board that during their recent meeting the following items were discussed: WWAC realignment, season changes in sports due to MHSAA litigation, maintenance issues at the Athletic Facility, and possible changes to the Assistant Principal/AD position at the high school due to increases in high school enrollment and position responsibilities.

Dave Robinson, Building & Site Committee Chairperson, informed the Board that during their recent meeting the following items were discussed: The Fine Arts Center Punch List, potential upcoming projects at the PC, MS, HS & Athletic Facility, and final arrangements for a new crosswalk form the high school to the middle school.

Mike Ostyn, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, spoke to the Board regarding happenings in the curriculum area, including: upcoming MEAP testing, possible changes in the way community service is handled at the high school, changing the high school to trimesters instead of semesters starting with the 2005-06 school year, reinstatement of several classes at the middle school level, updating of elementary report cards to reflect a common format across all elementary grades, and several staff development issues at the PC & EL.

Mr. Tom Szocinski, High School Principal, informed the board that the entire student body has had a chance to view the presentation regarding the change to Trimesters starting next year. Mr. Szocinski also informed the Board that after a review of the agricultural program, Dr. Randy Showerman, State Director for Agriscience and Natural Resources Education told area administrators that Grant’s Agricultural Program was an example of how a great Agricultural Program should be put together.

Mr. Lance Jones, Middle School Principal, informed the Board of their upcoming holiday concert and reminded the Board of the upcoming Christmas breakfast. He also informed the Board that they are participating with the PC & EL to provide support for 19 needy families during this holiday season.

Mr. Joel Schuitema, Elementary School Principal, invited the Board to their upcoming sing-along on December 20^th and thanked Nelson’s Farm Market for their donation of healthy snacks for the Turkey Trot held in November.

Mrs. Renae Galsterer, Primary Center Principal, thanked all the parents that brought their children to sing for the Board and also invited the Board to stop by tomorrow and see the Science Alive exhibit at the PC.

Mr. John Klever, Learning Center Director, informed the board that Sam Slone was selected as the Grant Alternative Education Center Student of the Month. He also stated his students are taking gifts to Every Woman’s Place in Muskegon to help support those in need.

After being submitted to the Board for first reading at the November meeting, the following policies are recommended by the Administration to be approved by the Board:

	June 13, 2005	May 16, 2005 Special	May 9, 2005
May 2, 2005 Special 2	May 2, 2005 Special	April 11, 2005 Special	April 11, 2005
March 14, 2005	February 21, 2005	February 7, 2005 Workshop	February 7, 2005 Special
January 10, 2005	December 13, 2004	November 8, 2004	October 11, 2004
September 13, 2004	August 9, 2004	July 12, 2004 Regular	July 12, 2004 Organization

DK – 0	5^th– 10	9^th – 10
K – 10	6^th– 10	10^th – 10
1^st – 10	7^th – 10	11^th – 10
2^nd – 10	8^th – 10	12^th – 10
3^rd – 10
4^th – 10	Categorical Rooms – 0

Number	Policy Topic	Reason for Change
0122	Board Powers	Revision
0142.1	Electoral Process	Revision
0142.2	Qualifications	Revision
0142.3	Term	Revision
0142.5	Vacancies	Technical Correction-Code Change
0167.1	Voting	Revision
3120	Employment of Professional Staff	Revision
5111	Eligibility of Resident/Nonresident Students	Revision
5113.02	School Choice Options Provided by the No Child Left Behind Act	New
5200	Attendance	Revision
5516	Student Hazing	Revision
5517	Harassment of Students	Revision
5517.01	Bullying and Other Aggressive Behavior Toward Students	New
6152	Student Fees, Fines	Revision
6320	Purchasing	Replacement
7530.01	Staff Use of Cellular Telephones (Version 1)	New
8330	Student Records	Revision
8400	School Safety Information

Board of Education Meeting Minutes 2004-05