WEBVTT

METADATA
Video-Count: 1
Video-1: youtube.com/watch?v=nFCrM1wBONI

Part: 1

1
00:00:00.719 --> 00:00:17.880
Good evening. I'm Anthony Mundane, president, board of education, Independence, Missouri School District. Welcome to our meeting. I'm calling this meeting to order. And our first order of business is the approval of the agenda.

2
00:00:18.320 --> 00:00:35.120
>> So moved. >> Second. >> All in favor say I. >> I. Those who oppose say nay. Motion passes. Thank you. This time we will have a request of district citizens

3
00:00:35.120 --> 00:00:51.840
or employees to speak. We do have one speaker this evening. And I'll read board policy C140P addresses. Comments by public in the board of education meetings and states that a total of 30 minutes are allocated for

4
00:00:51.840 --> 00:01:08.560
public comment. Each individual or set of parents are allotted five minutes to make remarks. We ask that individuals give their names and home addresses prior to their statement. Comments or questions are not to be addressed to individuals on the dis. If you would

5
00:01:08.560 --> 00:01:25.040
like to address the board of education regarding a student matter, personnel matter or potential legal matter. The issue can only be heard in close session. Comments are only to be made related to an agenda item. Our guest, please come forward. Congratulations on your upcoming 20

6
00:01:25.040 --> 00:01:44.880
years. Welcome. All righty. Our third item is the approval of the consent agenda. >> So moved. >> Second.

7
00:01:44.880 --> 00:02:02.439
>> Thank you. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those opposed say nay. Thank you, Dr. >> Thank you. We will be authorizing payment our bills totaling 14,428,65068

8
00:02:03.680 --> 00:02:20.080
as printed. This is up just a bit due to items such as updates to cameras, addition a few additional cameras in the district, renewal and purchase of instructional materials, concrete and asphalt work across the district, tuck pointing at Nonin and other approved

9
00:02:20.080 --> 00:02:34.800
items um by the board that are taking place as well as work at Chrysler Stadium and finally supplies for summer flooring projects. Those are some of the the items. >> Thank you. >> Sorry. Thank you, Dr. Grant. Do we have

10
00:02:34.800 --> 00:02:53.440
any questions, discussion? All right. Thank you. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those opposed say nay. >> Motion carries. Thank you. Superintendence report. Dr. Grant. >> Thank you again.

11
00:02:53.440 --> 00:03:09.920
All three graduations were a success and a wonderful celebration and the weather held off just barely. I know we were all holding our breath and our athletic directors were a little bit worried. Um, we appreciate all of the work and planning that goes into it by the buildings. They did a great job. Summer school is well underway and we are

12
00:03:09.920 --> 00:03:27.040
halfway through which is hard to believe already. The 26 Missouri legislative session ended with fewer major policy changes than expected. I've been updating you along the way. Many proposals related to school funding, property taxes, school choice mandates,

13
00:03:27.040 --> 00:03:43.599
governance, and governance were debated extensively, but ultimately failed to pass. Concerns were raised about how major tax cuts would harm local school budgets and district stability. However, the issues are expected to return next year. So, definitely going to want to keep an eye on that and be very

14
00:03:43.599 --> 00:03:58.959
involved. Um, especially as lawmakers prepare to revisit u Missouri's school funding foundation formula that is still going on um the rewriting of that. I do want to point out Missouri continues to face significant underfunding in public

15
00:03:58.959 --> 00:04:14.480
education. The FY26 for uh foundation formula funding shortfall is approximately 138 million. Proposed FY27 shortfall is approximately 190 million. Transportation funding shortfall is approximately 15 million. Combined

16
00:04:14.480 --> 00:04:31.840
estimated underfunding across FY26 and 27 is $362.7 million. We also have to continue to monitor legislation regarding the A throughF report card which did fail um this past legislative session, but the issue is

17
00:04:31.840 --> 00:04:47.600
still active because the governor's executive order outlining that this would occur. So, it's just a matter of what is that going to look like and who is going to propose it. Um this is definitely going to be interesting um to see how this play plays out since the commissioner of education has now

18
00:04:47.600 --> 00:05:04.080
retired. the deputy commissioner, one of the deputy commissioners has now retired as well as the resignation of the president of the state board of education. So, um got to continue to to play a significant role and uh lobbying efforts there and so we still need to um

19
00:05:04.080 --> 00:05:19.919
continue to watch that. So, that's all my cheering. >> Thank you. Dr. Grant, you have any questions or discussion for Dr. Grant at all? >> I had one thing. um it just affected independence, but um there was a piece

20
00:05:19.919 --> 00:05:37.840
of legislation about our six-year terms that nothing happened there. >> And and then also I just wanted to um here on your last superintendent report and your final um month as our interim

21
00:05:37.840 --> 00:05:52.240
superintendent, I just wanted to thank you. I wanted to thank you for your 29 years of service to ISD as a teacher and administrator in many departments. Um, your knowledge of HR and policies and also academics this last year I think

22
00:05:52.240 --> 00:06:09.199
has made our transition as seamless as it could be. So I appreciate that very much and I thank you for accepting this role. Um, also just your loyalty and your dedication through all the years not just ISTD but to the city of independence is amazing. Doesn't happen

23
00:06:09.199 --> 00:06:24.160
too often for people to last that long. So thank you. Um, I have no doubt that you've left the ISD better than you found it all those years ago. >> Thank you so much. >> Wish you the best. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. Um, Dr. Grant, apparently I'm

24
00:06:24.160 --> 00:06:41.680
really hot. Uh, I want to I had the opportunity as a former president of the board to be able to work closely with you. And um during that time, your professionalism and your compassion um and your commitment to the ISD was

25
00:06:41.680 --> 00:06:58.400
something that I it was unmatched. Um, and I I really appreciate how you use that time of transition to just really, you know, um, continue to put your stamp on on the

26
00:06:58.400 --> 00:07:16.160
ISD. And that that stamp is not something that was only in that one year. I mean, we have oodles of of um uh of um people that have been affected by your

27
00:07:16.160 --> 00:07:32.479
leadership. And so, thank you for that. Um thank you for being a a wonderful lead a woman in leadership. Um that didn't just happen one year. I mean, you have been doing that consistently throughout your career. So, thank you. And uh we're we're happy for Fort. They're getting somebody who's really

28
00:07:32.479 --> 00:07:51.759
capable. >> All righty. I did have a question about the agenda item, so I didn't want to interrupt anyone else who wanted to share kind remarks at all. Um, but I think we had mentioned the four terms. Great call out. Dr. Gra had mentioned

29
00:07:51.759 --> 00:08:08.639
before that it could be included in the I'm going to mispronounce it ominous bill. Is that still the case or is it kind of ruled out or >> No. No legislation passed. >> Sweet. Sweet. Cool. Just wanted to clarify that. That helps us, you know, look forward to things. Okay. So, thank

30
00:08:08.639 --> 00:08:24.319
you. Anyone else please take this time? It's seemingly appropriate to to share any sentiments or kind remarks. For sure. So, okay. All righty. Thank you. Now for new

31
00:08:24.319 --> 00:08:43.039
business. Our first item here is uh the approval of Independent School District Health Insurance Renewal. Dr. Gr. >> Sorry, we should approve this first. Um I would like to entertain a motion to um approve new business.

32
00:08:43.039 --> 00:08:58.320
>> I move that we approve the Independent School District Health Insurance Renewal. >> Second. >> Thank you. Maybe Brady. Great. >> Yep. >> Now, Dr. Great. Thank you. I'm going to turn this over to Dr. Stout and I think he's going to turn it over

33
00:08:58.320 --> 00:09:15.040
to a guest that we have in the audience. >> I am Dr. Grant. Thank you. Thank you. Good evening, board members. It is my pleasure to introduce Dave Johnson. Dave works for CBiz and has for many years. Dave's always a great partner in working with our insurance committee and negotiating teams as he presents updates

34
00:09:15.040 --> 00:09:30.880
on our health insurance coverages. So, at this time, Dave, I want to turn it over to you. >> Thank you, Dr. Ste. Well, thank you for having us again. My name is Dave Johnson. I'm the senior benefits and insurance services. We've been working with the district for many years on most of your health and long

35
00:09:30.880 --> 00:09:46.399
programs. Tonight we're going to talk about uh a few things that are renewing. The first is the medical plan. The medical plan's been in place of Blue Cross for many years. This year we're proposing a 5.9% there are let me start with this. There are six different plans

36
00:09:46.399 --> 00:10:03.120
employees have the choice to choose from every year. They're basically set up as two base plans. two buy up one plans and two buy up two plans. So the further along the scale you get, they're a little richer, a little more premium cost, little better benefit. Uh this

37
00:10:03.120 --> 00:10:19.360
year we're proposing for the October 1st renewal for the first four plans to stay the same in terms of the cost to the district as well as the cost to members. Well, the cost of the district is going to stay the same for the contribution.

38
00:10:19.360 --> 00:10:35.920
The only cost increase would be on the two buy two plans, which would be a 5.9% increase that will be uh shouldered by the members that are insured in that plan. All the plan benefits will remain the same with the exception of all of

39
00:10:35.920 --> 00:10:53.200
the high deductible plans. The deductibles generally go up a little bit every year to keep up with cost of living and that's a mandated increase by uh the federal government. So the deductibles on those qualified high deductible plans will go from 3,300 to

40
00:10:53.200 --> 00:11:10.079
individually and also the district has proposed to keep including $1,000 contribution to the members HS health savings account if they're enrolled in one of the qualified medical so

41
00:11:10.079 --> 00:11:27.040
I'll just remind you there was a bit of community about Kansas City hospital relationship with cross that has been resolved Kansas City remain as part of the providers for those plans. So, we're very pleased about that. So, any questions I can

42
00:11:27.040 --> 00:11:45.680
answer? >> Could you repeat the increase? Is it 5.9? Did you say? >> Yes, 5.9%. Except that that's not on the district cost. The district pays a flat amount for every plan. It'll be 5.9 on the if you can imagine on the scale six

43
00:11:45.680 --> 00:12:03.200
plans, the two farright plans. So obviously members will have an opportunity to enroll in different plans effective 101 October 1st if they would like. >> Do you have any other questions for Mr. Johnson?

44
00:12:03.200 --> 00:12:41.680
>> Thank you. Thank you. All righty. Do I have a motion? >> Sorry. All in favor? >> I >> those who oppose that motion passes. Thank you. >> All right.

45
00:12:41.680 --> 00:12:59.360
Amen. All right. Second item. >> Amen. Can't help that guys sometimes. Okay. Approval of Independent School District dental insurance renewal. >> I'll make a motion for that. >> Second. >> Thank you.

46
00:12:59.360 --> 00:13:17.040
>> I'm turn over to Dave. Um it's unique this year that we're coming to you with the dental insurance. It's been a few years. Dave can kind of elaborate on that. I know this was one of the talking points with negotiations and also with our insurance committee was the need to let's go ahead and put out uh for bid

47
00:13:17.040 --> 00:13:32.560
and see what we get back. So tonight um Dave's going to talk about a little bit of a change that's coming our way. >> So unique this year to the district we did review the market for well actually we received a renewal from your current carrier Sigma. It was a 7.5% increase

48
00:13:32.560 --> 00:13:48.000
and that was actually the rate cap that we had negotiated three years ago. Um, we asked them to come down on that. They were unwilling to. Uh, to be fair, the claims experience on the dental plan has deteriorated somewhat. This is not

49
00:13:48.000 --> 00:14:05.680
unusual in the market right now, especially after CO, lots of dental plans are experiencing increases. However, based on this and based on the fact we haven't looked at the market for a few years, we did review options in the market and we came up with actually a couple of pretty good alternatives. Uh

50
00:14:05.680 --> 00:14:20.639
we're proposing that you move the dental insurance plan to MetLife effective October 1st for a few different reasons. Number one, that the rates are slightly lower. They're about 2.2% lower than the current rates on the plan. Not less than

51
00:14:20.639 --> 00:14:36.959
7.5, but less than current. That'll be a savings of about combined $25,000 annually for the district and employees. The second thing is the from Sigma the renewal was just a one-year rate guarantee. This with Metife would

52
00:14:36.959 --> 00:14:52.160
actually be a two-year rate guarantee at these rates I just discussed with a rate cap of 8% on the third year. So we were worried about next year's renewal that they were going to come back after the seven and a half and try to get even

53
00:14:52.160 --> 00:15:08.800
more after that. The third thing is the plan design is very similar to what it is currently. There are some changes in terms of the annual maximum in terms of what an employee can gain based on services that they provide but still where MetLife is is very competitive

54
00:15:08.800 --> 00:15:25.040
compared to the current plan. Also the network of providers available. Um it's rare for people to go out of network on the dental plan. You have about 88% of all the dentists using uh excuse me have having expenses incurred by the plan.

55
00:15:25.040 --> 00:15:41.839
88% of them were in the Sigma plan. 91% of those are going to be in the uh MetLife plan. So, um we're very pleased that this offering um frankly always hate to move carriers. It just it does

56
00:15:41.839 --> 00:16:00.560
create some consternation with people, but we believe this is a good move for people for membership to the district. >> Mr. Johnson, can you if you can speak to just Why is Metife lesser expensive? I know in auto insurance it's based on how many

57
00:16:00.560 --> 00:16:14.880
crashes you had in the certain zip code. Is that similar to claims? >> All insurance companies in the benefits area do use claims experience to determine their rates. Um Metife is no

58
00:16:14.880 --> 00:16:32.639
is no exception to that. Um the claims experience has been higher this year. Um but Met Li through a combination of what they believe claim payment, their network discounts, um those sorts of things believe they can match the rates,

59
00:16:32.639 --> 00:16:48.639
actually reduce the rates just a little bit and be consistent and they're willing to do that for two years straight. So, uh they had all the claims experience to look at and on top of that, we've got a guarantee for two years nothing will change. Third year, there'll be a cap on that. So, they can't come back for any more than that.

60
00:16:48.639 --> 00:17:04.880
And hopefully by that time, and I think this is what they're betting on, the claims experience will level out a little bit and they'll benefit from that. Just out of curiosity, 8% obviously is a nice percentage, but have you ever seen a an entity like this go to the maximum

61
00:17:04.880 --> 00:17:22.959
on that third contract year, or is it totally dependent on how things go through? >> Well, it's both. It's totally dependent on how the claims experience is. Excuse me. Sure. this sigma the 7 and a half% was the maximum um for that time for the

62
00:17:22.959 --> 00:17:40.000
contract that we had in place. It's we don't ever want to just make decision based upon rates because insurance companies will try to buy the business if you will to try to but MetLife hasn't done that because they're they're agreeing to this for a for a set number

63
00:17:40.000 --> 00:17:55.919
of years longer than just 12 months. So they can't come back right after 12 months and and get that money back. So, we're comfortable that this is the best recommendation. >> Thank you. >> Any other questions or discussions? >> Yeah, I just had one quick question. Thank you for the um

64
00:17:55.919 --> 00:18:11.039
>> Thank you for the 88 versus Am I? There we go. The 88 versus 91 now in network. That's helpful to know. Um about how much will that save employees? Like dental plans aren't that expensive. And you said the district will save 25,000 folks. How much does this mean for

65
00:18:11.039 --> 00:18:28.640
>> um the Let me make sure I've got the rates here. Right. the rates and I don't have them listed on the page. I know it's going to save it's two it's 2.21%. >> Um and it's going to go from I believe it's on on uh the individual for the

66
00:18:28.640 --> 00:18:45.200
district is going from $34 down to $30. And on the family coverage I think it's a savings of $7 to $10 monthly for family >> for the employee. >> Yes. For the employee paying for additional coverage. Right. Of course, the district pays 100% of the individual employees cost.

67
00:18:45.200 --> 00:19:08.240
>> Got it. Okay. Thank you. >> Great question. Any others? Thank you. Thank you. >> And just a quick addition, my thanks to Dr. Grant, too. Thank you. Good luck. >> All righty. All in favor say I. I.

68
00:19:08.240 --> 00:19:25.039
>> Those who oppose say nay. For the record, I I do apologize. I'm working on that. Thank you. Our third item this evening is approval of benefits directive consulting and administration

69
00:19:25.039 --> 00:19:43.120
agreement. Dr. >> I will turn it again to Dr. >> I move that we approve the bene benefits direct life consulting and administration agreement. >> Second. Dr. Great.

70
00:19:43.120 --> 00:19:59.600
Um, so this evening again, Dave Johnson's here. He unique position with Benefits Direct. He's a co-broker, if you will, with the gentleman that I work with called Jeff Stopple, named Jeff Stopple, sorry, uh, with the Maril Life for Benefits Direct. And they support our

71
00:19:59.600 --> 00:20:15.520
employees with all of our um, uh, benefits packages that are non-health insurance packages. So, a quick summary of what those things are um include short-term disability, accident insurance, cancer insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, prepaid

72
00:20:15.520 --> 00:20:30.559
legal ID theft coverage, and medical transportation coverage. And again, these are benefits that our employees can purchase, if you will, through air for benefits direct. So, this evening is multiple carriers and insurance providers are here uh sharing

73
00:20:30.559 --> 00:20:47.440
information. I did not ask Jeff to come. Certainly Dave can speak on the rehab because he works with them, but asking this evening that the board of education approve this agreement, this contract for us to continue to work with benefits direct life. They've been a great partner. I think we've been with them seven or

74
00:20:47.440 --> 00:21:08.520
eight years now. And uh again asking for your approval with this agreement which has and let me add this which has gone through our legal counsel and their legal counsel as well. Thank you. All righty. Do you have any questions for Dr. Stout?

75
00:21:08.799 --> 00:21:25.840
All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those who oppose say nay. That motion passes. Thank you. Our fourth item, approval of district July 1, 2026 insurance renewals. I will entertain a motion. >> So moved. Second.

76
00:21:25.840 --> 00:21:40.799
>> Right. At this time, we will call for discussion. Thank you, Mr. Johnson. Dr. Dr. S. >> Thank you. Uh Charlie her uh with Gallagher Insurance is here this evening to discuss our renewals. As you will recall earlier this spring we moved

77
00:21:40.799 --> 00:21:56.880
towards working with Gallagher Insurance on our property and casualty insurance coverage as well as the cyber crime the equipment breakdown liability and excess work comp. So this was I think I explained to the board this was under a big umbrella that we all had with CBIZ. This piece has been carved out due to

78
00:21:56.880 --> 00:22:12.880
some issues that we had on this front. So happy to introduce Charlie. And Charlie, if you'll walk us through the numbers, I'd appreciate it. >> Of course. Thank you, Dr. Stout. Um, and thank you to the board of education for um your vote of confidence in us. It doesn't go unnoticed that um it is a big spend. It is a big lift and we

79
00:22:12.880 --> 00:22:29.280
appreciate your trust in us. Um only good news to report. Um by the way, that was heck of a bad news. So congratulations to the CBS team for what they did. Um ours are not up as high, which is good. Um, on a not to exceed basis, uh, we are proposing a 2.8%

80
00:22:29.280 --> 00:22:46.159
increase, uh, which represents a $59,000 year-over-year additional expense from the prior year. Um, I will tell you that the reason we are proposing the not to exceed number tonight is because we got started a little later in the process when we typically do. Um, and part of that was just due to timing. Um, given

81
00:22:46.159 --> 00:23:01.919
how we are appointed as the broker both by the insurance companies and by the uh the school district. So, just to give you a little understanding of how that works, after the board of education does approve us, we sign what are called broker of record letters where the insurance companies on your current policies recognize us as the uh broker

82
00:23:01.919 --> 00:23:17.039
for that policy and then we can start to gather all the information and work on the renewal from that point going forward. Um, so we started basically at first week of May. Typically, we would start that probably the first week of February. So, um, a little bit of a rush to the finish, which is why the not to

83
00:23:17.039 --> 00:23:33.200
exceed numbers there, but we do have enough feedback at this point to be very confident that the number that we are proposing that 2.26 million is, uh, is very firm. In fact, when all is said and done, we meet with staff next weeks to finalize the those renewals for both property, cyber, crime, uh, liability,

84
00:23:33.200 --> 00:23:49.600
and excess workers compensation. We do actually think that those numbers will be under last year's expense. Um, not going to state the number because we are still yet to review that, but I I would expect probably a six-figure savings off of that number when all is said and done. Um, year-over-year terms

85
00:23:49.600 --> 00:24:05.120
and conditions wise, we are going to recommend more cyber liability coverage, which is built into that number. I uh will not state that limit in a public forum to protect the interests of the district. Um, but we did run a report on behalf of the district that is going to suggest buying a higher limit given the

86
00:24:05.120 --> 00:24:21.600
conditions of the marketplace today. Um, we are also going to probably make the recommendation next week to move carriers on reliability insurance. Reason for that is because the district currently carries a million dollars worth of sexual abuse and molestation coverage. Um, we would feel that that is very inadequate given the exposure to

87
00:24:21.600 --> 00:24:36.640
risk that that does present to school district, particularly in the state of Missouri. Um, so moving that coverage from a million to $5 million, um, is actually going to cost less given our marketing efforts. Um we will present probably two or three additional options on the liability and the work excess

88
00:24:36.640 --> 00:24:53.360
workers compensation which we do feel will drive savings. Um obviously our our goal is to save money as much as we can but to put forth the best product that does ensure the district to the full capabilities of uh with the risk that a school district is um exposed to in 2026. Um so all that being said we are

89
00:24:53.360 --> 00:25:11.120
recommending that 2.6 2.26 million uh not to exceed number to give about a week to finish this all up. Um, as I stated, I am very confident that it does come under that $2.26 million. I am in fact very confident that it does come under last year's expense of $2.2 million flat.

90
00:25:11.120 --> 00:25:30.960
So, I will take u the opportunity to answer anybody's questions at this time. That was a lot of information. >> That was a lot of insurance. I apologize. >> That was a lot. I mean, I don't know how many times you can say 2.26 million, whatever. That's a lot. That's a big

91
00:25:30.960 --> 00:25:47.440
ups. >> So glad to know that there's a a do not exceed set. And so any other questions or discussions? >> Charlie, thank you for all in favor. >> I >> I >> I. Those who oppose say nay.

92
00:25:47.440 --> 00:26:03.440
Thank you. That motion carries. Our fifth item this evening is approval to rescend effective July 1st, 2026 policy numbers S 100P I 100P and F230P. I'll entertain a motion.

93
00:26:03.440 --> 00:26:19.840
>> I'll make the motion. Second. >> Thank you. Discussion, Dr. Grant. >> Yes. As we had the first reading of these policies last month and tonight we will have the second reading, we are asking that the board of education resend these current policies. so that

94
00:26:19.840 --> 00:26:38.720
the revised policies will take effect once the second reading has approved in July one. >> Thank you, Dr. Grant. Any discussion, questions at all? >> Fantastic. Thank you. All in favor say I. >> I. Those who oppose say nay.

95
00:26:38.720 --> 00:26:54.159
>> Thank you. Item five passes. Our sixth item this evening is approval of board of education policy changes, second and final reading. I'll entertain a motion. I'll make that motion. >> Second. >> Thank you. Discussion, Dr. Grant.

96
00:26:54.159 --> 00:27:11.520
>> All right. It is the second and final reading of S100P, I 100P, and F230P. We'd ask for your approval effective July 1. >> I will entertain. All in favor say I. >> I. >> I.

97
00:27:11.520 --> 00:27:29.919
>> Those who oppose say nay. Thank you. Item six passes. Item number seven is approval to schedule 2026 2027 school district budget hearing. Dr. Grant. >> I make that motion.

98
00:27:29.919 --> 00:27:46.159
>> Thank you. >> Second, >> Dr. Grant. >> All right. The district prepares an annual budget detailing the district's projected revenues and expenditures prior to July 1 of each year. The administration recommends presenting the 2627 budget at a public hearing and a

99
00:27:46.159 --> 00:28:02.720
special board meeting Monday, June 29th at 7:30 a.m. Thank you for your consideration. >> All righty. We will have a work session on the 22nd at 7 a.m. to have our questions answered. So, I ask that we

100
00:28:02.720 --> 00:28:19.039
would just be prepared to share our questions with our financial advisor at that time. I'm really excited to learn of the findings of the budget. Any other questions or discussion? >> When can we expect to see the budget for our own review? >> Prior to the 22nd. I know currently

101
00:28:19.039 --> 00:28:43.360
they're working to get that printed. >> I do not. >> I think it is it due to be finalized the 18th. Did I read that correctly? Okay. Sure. So, we do have a holiday the 19th, but it's due to be sent to the print

102
00:28:43.360 --> 00:28:58.640
shop on the 18th. So, look forward to an update. All right. Any other questions or discussion? All righty. Fantastic. I will ask all in favor say I. >> I.

103
00:28:58.640 --> 00:29:15.919
>> Those who oppose say nay. Thank you. Item seven passes. Our eighth item is approval of membership in the cooperating school districts of greater Kansas City for 2026 27. I will entertain a motion. >> So moved. >> Second. Thank you. Discussion. Dr.

104
00:29:15.919 --> 00:29:32.240
Grant. >> Yes. The Cooperating School District of Greater Kansas City was established in 2007. The district has been a member of the cooperating school districts for many years. This organization provides a number of services for members. I think inc. Um those a few of us were able to

105
00:29:32.240 --> 00:29:50.720
attend uh the annual meeting um to hear any updates that we had this they provide purchase services, equipment and supplies at a reduced cost, professional development opportunities, lobbying efforts which paid off this year as I shared earlier um and um some of those

106
00:29:50.720 --> 00:30:06.480
benefits. So, we would recommend to the board approving the membership at a cost of $27,468 for this upcoming year. Um, that is $2 a student and that is something that has not changed since the inception of the

107
00:30:06.480 --> 00:30:23.840
organization and director sits on that board. If there's anything that you wanted to share. >> No, I just think it's worth every penny of what we get out of this and again the fact that it's not changed for since I think 2007 or so. It's still $2.

108
00:30:23.840 --> 00:30:44.240
It's an amazing value. >> Thank you, Dr. Grant and Director Estri. Any other questions or statements at all? >> Fantastic. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those who oppose say nay. That motion passes. Thank you. Our ninth item this evening is approval of the

109
00:30:44.240 --> 00:30:59.919
fourth addendum to the collective bargaining agreement with INEA. I will entertain a motion. So moved. >> Second. >> Sorry. >> Thank you, Dr. Grant. >> Yes, this is something that I normally

110
00:30:59.919 --> 00:31:17.600
have the opportunity to chair, but in as I assume this role, this is something Dr. Stout has taken over and so I'm going to turn it over to him. >> Thank you so much, Dr. Uh, first of all, I would like to thank our board members, Jill Essie, uh,

111
00:31:17.600 --> 00:31:35.279
Brandy Parante, and Blake Roersonson, who's no longer with us, but he started off on this trail along with us, uh, for their time and support as they were a part of the district's negotiating team. There's a lot of time that goes into this, and I'm just very appreciative. So, thank you. I also want to thank Eric

112
00:31:35.279 --> 00:31:50.240
Simmons. I don't think Eric's here this evening, is he? But I'll thank him for me, please. Our uniserve director. Um, I do appreciate him and his efforts and his communication. And then lastly, uh, I see Georgiana there, and I don't know if Rebecca is here, but I work with those two pretty closely and their

113
00:31:50.240 --> 00:32:05.840
entire team. So, thank you to to all of you. I do appreciate you. I'll be very brief. Um, but this agreement includes a collaborative approach to providing quality uninterrupted planning time at least three days per week when possible, expanded opportunities for remote work

114
00:32:05.840 --> 00:32:21.200
on weather related or emergency closure days that occur on non- studentent attendance days, and salary SC schedule improvements for teachers and pair professionals through step advancement, lane movement for eligible employees, and salary increases. This agreement

115
00:32:21.200 --> 00:32:36.799
also maintains health insurance premiums. We've learned about those this evening for the base plans and buy up one plans which will remain unchanged for the 2627 school year with only the buy two plans increasing by 5.9% while the district will continue to pay

116
00:32:36.799 --> 00:32:53.200
the full cost of the individualbased health insurance plan. In addition, staff will receive enhanced family leave benefits, including up to five paid days annually for family leave, including expanded bereavement eligibility and paid parental leave for eligible

117
00:32:53.200 --> 00:33:09.600
employees after one year of service. So, that's a lot in a short amount of time, but we would ask this evening that the board approve this fourth addendum to the collective bargaining agreement between the Independent School District and Independence National Education Association. Happy to answer any

118
00:33:09.600 --> 00:33:26.799
questions. Thank you, Dr. Stout. Any discussion or questions at this time? >> Um, we had a speaker earlier um asking about um adding an additional salary schedule for the recovery room interventionist. What did that come up during negotiations and what was the

119
00:33:26.799 --> 00:33:43.919
reason for not having because it's come up before correct? Like previously, >> it has Wendy and it did come up I think then it was a very um quick discussion to be honest with you. We were kind of running out of time at the last minute to finalize everything and what was presented that evening was and I don't

120
00:33:43.919 --> 00:34:00.159
have it in front of me I apologize but basically an index for our teachers and our paras and on the paras I think their ask for that particular position was and I'm going to look at there $7 an hour more correct George on

121
00:34:00.159 --> 00:34:14.879
some something like I don't have it in front of me I apologize but uh in the presentation we said here's the amount that the district's willing to go and and that's what was agreed upon. >> And I would say that they are identified on the Paris salary schedule within a

122
00:34:14.879 --> 00:34:33.480
three do an additional um $3 to the additional base that is on the salary schedule for the work that they do in addition to several other positions as well. >> Off the top of your head, do you know if other districts have them tied together?

123
00:34:34.000 --> 00:34:50.320
>> I pair as in the RRI, right? Is that correct? >> That was actually a question I wrote down as we were listening to our guest this evening. So, I just look forward to learning more about the >> Yeah, about the information there. Any other questions? Director Bara, just wanted to make sure you were done with

124
00:34:50.320 --> 00:35:06.240
your statement. Okay, sounds good. All righty. Fantastic. Thank you. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those who oppose say nay. That motion passes. Thank you. Our 10th item this evening is approval of the fourth addendum to the collective bargaining

125
00:35:06.240 --> 00:35:22.400
agreement with ISP. I will entertain a motion. >> So moved. Second. >> Thank you, Dr. Grant. >> All right, Dr. Stout. >> Okay. Um this time I want to start my thank yous with Mike Resty who I know is

126
00:35:22.400 --> 00:35:39.200
here this evening. So thank you Mike for all that you do for your constituents. I do respect that and appreciate you. Um, the tenative agreement or this agreement, I should say, establishes district observed holidays through the approved school calendar and exempts skilled trades employees from facilities

127
00:35:39.200 --> 00:35:55.680
on call duties during designated holidays, six days now versus five previously. Eligible employees will receive salary schedule step advancement, the addition of step 20 to all salary schedules and salary increases reflected in the updated schedules. The agreement also calls for

128
00:35:55.680 --> 00:36:11.599
mileage reimbursement for two full-time substitute employees who travel between district buildings. And lastly, the agreement also maintains health insurance premiums while continuing district paid individualbased coverage with only the buy of two plans increasing by 5.9%.

129
00:36:11.599 --> 00:36:26.400
So again, this evening, we'd ask that the board of education approved the fourth addendum to the collective bargaining agreement between the independent school district and and the independent educational support personnel. Thank you, Dr. Stout. Uh, any

130
00:36:26.400 --> 00:36:42.240
discussion, questions at all. I'm particularly excited to see this happen. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those who oppose say nay. >> Thank you. That motion carries. Our 11th item this evening is approval of the

131
00:36:42.240 --> 00:36:58.720
fourth addendum to the collective bargaining agreement with ITA. I will entertain a motion. >> So moved. Second. >> Thank you. Discussion. Dr. end. >> Okay. Thank you. Again, uh I don't believe they're here this evening, but

132
00:36:58.720 --> 00:37:14.800
uh I do want to give kudos to Robert Smith and Jen Dupin and their entire team for their efforts and supporting the transportation staff. Uh I've enjoyed working with them for many years now. Uh, this agreement, this agreement, excuse me, includes improvements to the transportation facility parking lot with

133
00:37:14.800 --> 00:37:30.160
the district and ITA working together to pay for approximately one-third of the lot of concrete by August 21st, 2026 and reconfigure bus parking to maximize space and efficiency. Um, that's a big that's been a big ask of theirs for many

134
00:37:30.160 --> 00:37:46.720
years and we're kind of excited to be able to see this come to fruition, at least the first third of this, which we have talked about before. Uh eligible employees will receive salary uh schedule step advancement. Step 24 will be added to the attendant and driver salary schedules and salary increases

135
00:37:46.720 --> 00:38:02.720
are reflected in the updated schedules. Additionally, health insurance premiums for base plans and BF-1 plans will remain unchanged for the 2627 school year with only the BY2 plans increasing by 5.9% while the district will continue to pay the full cost of individualbased

136
00:38:02.720 --> 00:38:17.760
health insurance plan. We would ask that the board of education approve the fourth addendum to the collective bargaining agreement between the uh ISD and the Independence Transportation Employees Association. >> Thank you.

137
00:38:17.760 --> 00:38:34.400
>> Is it um usual to have um like parking lots included in bargaining agreements? >> I wouldn't say it's usual. >> Okay. >> It's a little unusual. >> What What is the reasoning for it? um bec well it's part of the overall big

138
00:38:34.400 --> 00:38:50.880
plan if you will okay >> that um a little bit of history the parking lot for the buses um has been a challenge to say the least especially when we get a lot of rain and it seems like in Independence when it rains we get two to four inches at a time a lot

139
00:38:50.880 --> 00:39:05.040
of times and that creates huge potholes and havoc out there and we've tried a multitude of things over the last seven eight years that I've been a part part of this uh team effort and uh not much has worked as as well as we had all

140
00:39:05.040 --> 00:39:22.000
hoped. So this is a big uh project and we're we've agreed because of the cost the cost is going to be well over a million dollars to do the first third. Uh part of this agreement is that uh myself with several other ISD

141
00:39:22.000 --> 00:39:38.640
administrators are going to work with Robert and his team and and Jeff who's out here this evening and we're going to collaborate on you know best way to start and how to run this project and uh by the first day of school um weather permitting and the fact that all of our

142
00:39:38.640 --> 00:39:55.200
codes are met with city officials we can get that accomplished. Well, and I would mention that through the CBA with ITA, they have um three areas which they can bargain in in it. Salary benefits as well as working conditions. And this absolutely falls under working conditions. We've had this conversation,

143
00:39:55.200 --> 00:40:11.680
Eric's not here, for a multitude of years as Dr. Stout said, um tried different things, but I'm just excited with um bond passing and our commitment from our community that we're able to do this with transportation. >> Yeah. So, this is just working together to improve working efficient. Perfect.

144
00:40:11.680 --> 00:40:28.079
Thank you. >> Is there a guarantee on potholes never coming back or >> I wish I >> Yeah. Yeah. As someone who's had to repair several wheels and tires due to potholes. I cannot wait to just have a

145
00:40:28.079 --> 00:40:42.960
knock that a pothole. Okay. All in favor this evening >> say I. I. Those who oppose say nay. >> Thank you. That motion passes. Our our 12th item this evening, excuse me, is approval of the employee manual for the

146
00:40:42.960 --> 00:41:01.480
2026 2027 school year. I will entertain a motion. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Discussion. Dr. Grant. >> I will turn this over to Dr. Stout as he led this charge with EGS.

147
00:41:02.000 --> 00:41:19.319
>> So this evening is here with EGS to walk us through um the changes, revisions, suggestions. So happy to have her here this evening. We missed her last month and uh Dwayne for

148
00:41:22.400 --> 00:41:41.280
>> Good job, Dwayne. Good job. >> Not that we don't appreciate you. >> Just hold two seconds. Get that microphone on for you. I think you should be good now. There you go. >> Okay. Now, can you hear me? Okay, great.

149
00:41:41.280 --> 00:41:56.640
Um, thank you for the introduction. Um, as Dr. Stout said, we are presenting um the employee manual with the changes for the 2627 school year. Um, a few things I want to go over. Uh, first, I'll go over

150
00:41:56.640 --> 00:42:11.920
some of the changes from our office as updates. Um, and I'll try to go slow so you can follow along. Um, the first one is C120E on page 13. Um, this is the

151
00:42:11.920 --> 00:42:27.359
complaints or concerns section and we simply updated this um to align with the policy change that was adopted within the last few months. Um, it's the very last line. Um the next update was um to

152
00:42:27.359 --> 00:42:43.119
local business externships for credit. This was district language that was has been included in years past. We simply removed the sunset date um because the statute was reauthorized without a sunset date or a termination date.

153
00:42:43.119 --> 00:42:58.160
Um and then the last item that came from our office was F140E. Um this part of this section outlines the purchase amount requiring board approval and we align that with the last policy update.

154
00:42:58.160 --> 00:43:16.400
Um and then from there um we had uh district provided changes. I do want to point out that one of them um includes on page 19 the administrator residency requirement that was removed. Um this

155
00:43:16.400 --> 00:43:31.839
was an addition uh an issue that was identified by administrators and their conversations with the incoming superintendent. Um it is also a concern that impacts the district's ability to recruit leaders because most other districts don't have similar requirements.

156
00:43:31.839 --> 00:43:47.680
Um and the incoming superintendent made it clear that she'd like to explore the possibility of a stipen or incentive for administrators who reside in the district. Um and then from there there were additional changes um made by the district. Um some of those are annual

157
00:43:47.680 --> 00:44:04.599
changes we see commonly like personnel, payroll charts, salary schedule links, benefits, those types of things. Um so with that, um if you have any questions for me on the EGS changes, I'm happy to answer those.

158
00:44:05.520 --> 00:44:22.000
>> Thank you. At this time, we'll entertain discussion or questions. Yeah, I noticed um and have heard from a few um employees in the district about the um decoration requirements in the

159
00:44:22.000 --> 00:44:38.880
the classroom. And I am concerned about the language um that we have in the in the staff uh employee manual uh because I feel like it it kind of lends to we're going to tell someone they can't put a red curtain up as opposed to uh allowing

160
00:44:38.880 --> 00:44:55.119
a principal to speak into individual classrooms and decorations. So I'd like to move to adopt um effective July 1st, 2026 the employee manual as presented. um today

161
00:44:55.119 --> 00:45:11.680
without the classroom decoration requirement language. >> So you're asking to remove personal decorations are prohibited. >> Yes. >> Yeah. And I can completely support that. I think um the intent behind that was we do have a policy um religious and

162
00:45:11.680 --> 00:45:28.400
controversial commercial issues and there have been instances in the past um where things have been displayed that are in contrast to that policy and so um I do however see the point of like if I want to have this want to have a theme

163
00:45:28.400 --> 00:45:44.079
for the year right and I go and buy these things that's not something that should be prohibited and uh I I think addressing that, but it still does. Um, principles are still following up to ensure that things are appropriate like that. So, the district fully supports that and I thank you for bringing that

164
00:45:44.079 --> 00:45:59.520
to our attention. >> I do think it's important for a principal to be able to speak into what's appropriate in the classroom, >> but when we're boggling them down with can I put up this curtain or that curtain or I just don't think that's appropriate.

165
00:45:59.520 --> 00:46:16.160
>> I second that. >> We have a second. Thank you. And I think we need to go farther because it's not just a personal decoration. >> I'm so sorry. Can we Can we please like maybe mute the mic because I I'm struggling. >> Yeah.

166
00:46:16.160 --> 00:46:39.040
>> Sorry. I think it's it's not you. It's just the mic. >> Maybe it's the wind outside. I don't know. Anyway, >> can we mute our mics if we're not speaking then or something? Back at you, Director Baird. >> Okay. Um, I think we need to go farther.

167
00:46:39.040 --> 00:46:55.599
So far, we're talking about removing personal decorations are prohibited. Um, and instead of those four words, I think that there's a lot more that needs to come out. The teachers may not decorate any portion of their classrooms with items that are not directly related to the curriculum or subject matter. That

168
00:46:55.599 --> 00:47:11.280
would need to come out because that wouldn't apply to um personal decorations. This restriction includes but is not limited to posters, signs, artwork, displays or other materials that do not have a direct and evident connection to instructional content. Um, all classroom displays and materials

169
00:47:11.280 --> 00:47:26.720
should contribute to the educational focus of the classroom and support student learning objectives. So, I think this whole policy, if this is something that we want to try to enforce, I think we need to go back to the drawing board. Um, I will not support the handbook as it's currently written.

170
00:47:26.720 --> 00:47:41.839
>> I would say >> or manual, sorry. I I would like to address um the components the director or sorry vice president Barrett addressed. Um I would disagree with that. I believe all of those items support creating a classroom culture and community where students learn about

171
00:47:41.839 --> 00:47:58.240
their teachers and can add to morning meetings as well as curriculum and be supported with that. And that is definitely a part of the curriculum and expectation that we have in the district. And so I do believe that those things would be allowed and are currently allowed in within all of that.

172
00:47:58.240 --> 00:48:15.440
And so I would disagree with that, but I think the language is what the issue is. You may agree with the interpretation of that language, but as I'm reading it as an outsider and as other folks have read it, and we've clearly received a few emails about this, it I think it's more than just that one line. I would like for us to completely rethink this policy

173
00:48:15.440 --> 00:48:32.440
or remove it all together. And I would say that district administration does support the the language as written with the um removal of those languages that director Dix

174
00:48:32.480 --> 00:48:47.280
>> I think it would be appropriate to call a question. >> Um I actually would like to discuss as well. um saying that it directly relates to curriculum I think is a difficult

175
00:48:47.280 --> 00:49:00.800
statement because in a high school for example you might have three different curriculums taught in one classroom because you have traveling teachers and um I don't know it just seems to me that you're putting another burden on admin

176
00:49:00.800 --> 00:49:18.319
and a stress on staff and um I think that that's one point of personal pride for a lot of teachers for what their classroom looks like and that it be inviting. And there are so many things that are a part of that that help

177
00:49:18.319 --> 00:49:34.800
you build relationships, which is the number one piece to starting a classroom and for students to be able to learn. Um, I have several messages from staff members that are very concerned with everything

178
00:49:34.800 --> 00:49:58.720
that's stated in this. Um, and I'm afraid that that's going to be a point of documentation. People are afraid that they're going to be targeted with a one random poster that they have in their room. >> Okay.

179
00:49:58.720 --> 00:50:14.800
So, we have sounds like we have two motions. Um, am I am I correct? >> I need a vote on the amendment for those. >> Just I just want to make sure we move this right. So, we have a motion that

180
00:50:14.800 --> 00:50:30.400
states removing I believe it was four words. What were they again? I'm sorry. >> Uh, decoration requirement language. >> Okay. And that and it was seconded. Okay. And then we've discussed

181
00:50:30.400 --> 00:50:47.599
that. Did you make another motion for an amendment? >> Um, I think we need to vote on the motion on the table before I make another motion. >> Okay. All right. Any further discussion at this time? Okay. Um, just for the sake of clarity,

182
00:50:47.599 --> 00:51:04.000
um, the motion on the floor right now is to accept it as is with the exclusion of the I'm so sorry. I apologize. I don't have the language in front of me. Could you repeat that one more time? um

183
00:51:04.000 --> 00:51:20.960
adopt effective July 1st, 2026 the employee manual as presented today without the classroom decoration requirement language. >> Okay. So just for clarity, would that include your argument? >> I >> So that would be the whole >> just I just want to make sure I'm understanding this. This would in fact

184
00:51:20.960 --> 00:51:35.920
include >> So you want to remove the entire classroom decoration requirement, >> the classroom decorate classroom decoration um language. Yes, >> that's that entire paragraph. It's all about classroom decorations. It's the title of it is classroom decoration

185
00:51:35.920 --> 00:51:52.079
requirements. So remove the entire thing and not just the >> My understanding is we were only removing the four words. I thought the motion was just those four words, personal decorations. >> Okay, fantastic. Just wanted to get some clarity there. Fantastic. Thank you all. All in favor, please say I. >> I.

186
00:51:52.079 --> 00:52:09.720
>> I. >> Those >> were there other I'm so sorry. I thought we were just voting on those four words. Um, >> so my understanding >> because I had other changes to the employee manual. Am I too late then?

187
00:52:10.000 --> 00:52:25.200
>> So >> for the employee manual. So just >> so we're just voting on removing that paragraph. >> Cammy, can you Miss Smith, can you reread the motion, please? >> I thought it was approve approving the whole thing. The original motion was approval of

188
00:52:25.200 --> 00:52:56.319
the 267y. >> So that that is the only >> the whole thing >> correct as far as that specific. >> No, that would be approving the whole manual. >> Correct. Yes. not prepared to do that. So I have other edits if we can consider those.

189
00:52:56.319 --> 00:53:13.760
>> So we you have other considerations to approve in regard to the >> change. Okay. Um this is interesting. I need some guidance as to how to do this. Would we entertain a motion at this

190
00:53:13.760 --> 00:53:30.240
point? >> I believe we have received a vote. Um, and so we may need to do a roll call to figure out if that vote um had passed. >> Okay.

191
00:53:30.240 --> 00:53:56.520
>> Yes, please. >> Yes. >> No. >> No. >> Yes. Yes. >> Yes. >> Motion passes.

192
00:53:56.960 --> 00:54:22.040
>> Order three. All right. Thank you. All righty. Our 13th item this evening is approval of the high school, middle school, and elementary school student parent handbook for the 202627 school year.

193
00:54:23.359 --> 00:54:37.839
>> So move. >> Thank you. >> Second. >> Thank you. Discussion, Dr. Grant >> and Dr. Stout. It's the Dr. Stout show today. >> Thank you. Um, we do have Meline still with us this evening and she's going to run through that. I do want to just talk

194
00:54:37.839 --> 00:54:53.359
briefly about kind of this process. So typically as we start off this second semester uh we start meeting with EGS and our legal team along with Dr. Leam, Dr. Maginger u the HR team. So uh Dr.

195
00:54:53.359 --> 00:55:11.040
Leam and Dr. Mager uh respective assistant soups over elementary, middle and high school uh the high school teams and schools. they start working within committees and kind of going through the handbooks um at their respective levels.

196
00:55:11.040 --> 00:55:27.680
So this typically uh will involve two to three meetings um and has we've had the board representatives sit on that. We bring in some assistant principles that are part of that. They've in turn had um opportunities to visit with teachers. So

197
00:55:27.680 --> 00:55:44.480
that process takes place and then ultimately that ends up with our focus our end goal being the first the board meeting in June which we're here this evening. So just wanted that context for all the board members to kind of understand that process. Uh and they're here this evening. They'll uh gladly chime in as well if there's any

198
00:55:44.480 --> 00:56:01.760
questions specific for them or the the handbooks. But I will let Madlin if you would please kind of walk us through uh your involvement. >> Yes. Thank you Dr. Stout. Um as Dr. stop mentioned we had multiple meetings, many many conversations, many edits, many

199
00:56:01.760 --> 00:56:17.040
notes for meetings, all of that. Um, it's a it's a big group effort. Um, similar to the employee manual, first I want to hit what the updates were from EGS. Um, the first one is on E190s.

200
00:56:17.040 --> 00:56:34.720
Um, this is um, Dusty's required parents right to know notification. They did send out an update in early May that based on their federal audit, they were adding some language to that. So, we did add that to that notice. Um, similar to the employee manual C120S for

201
00:56:34.720 --> 00:56:52.480
complaints or concerns, we added the line at the sentence at the end of that to align with the policy change that was recently adopted. We also updated S200S when it comes to prohibited weapons. Um, we did modify the uh punishment in that

202
00:56:52.480 --> 00:57:08.880
paragraph to align with EGS policy. Um and then we also had um language um regarding homeschoolers, family education, and full-time virtual kids. Um as you may recall last session, they had an update where they have the

203
00:57:08.880 --> 00:57:25.119
opportunity to participate in district events and activities as defined by law. And we just simply changed some of the language there because it wasn't it was no longer recently adopted statute. So we just refer to it as Missouri statute. Um, from there, all of the other updates

204
00:57:25.119 --> 00:57:45.680
across the handbooks are all um, district provided changes. Um, similar to the employee manual, a lot of them are annual updates. Um, but I'm happy to uh, answer any questions about the EGS updates. And I, forgive me, I don't know if this is an EGS update or a regular update.

205
00:57:45.680 --> 00:58:02.319
Um, but I have um I have concerns about the language included in the high school and the middle school um handbooks. The pro prohibition of electronic and or electric and motorized devices. Um the language here um it lists electric

206
00:58:02.319 --> 00:58:18.079
bicycles, motorized bicycles, scooters, mopeds, and any similar motorized or battery powered personal transportation device. Um and they are going to be um banned from being driven, operated, ridden, parked, stored, or otherwise

207
00:58:18.079 --> 00:58:35.599
left on district property at any time, including in the parking lot, sidewalks, athletic facilities, or other district-owned or controlled areas. This prohibition applies at all times, including during the school day and at all district um sponsored activities and events. My concern um is that while I

208
00:58:35.599 --> 00:58:50.079
understand that there are safety issues and that we've had some tragedies close by and nearby district property um and I think on district property sadly um this language I think also

209
00:58:50.079 --> 00:59:06.079
includes motorcycles and I know Dr. Stout rides a motorcycle and that would mean that he could not come onto district property. I don't think the language is clear enough to allow actual motorcycles even when driven by staff and other licensed drivers.

210
00:59:06.079 --> 00:59:22.799
So, I would I would move that we um remove this or table it. Um I guess I would move that we postpone um approving these handbook and um handbooks until uh June 29th at the budget hearing until

211
00:59:22.799 --> 00:59:56.480
that language can be cleaned up. Uh, can you speak into why that was added to the handbook? Dr. >> Basically just talking about the safety of kids in many concerning.

212
00:59:56.480 --> 01:00:25.599
So that was serious question. >> Sure. >> So real quick, Maline, does this apply to staff as well? Because as I'm reading it's it's focused on the students in the student handbook and it is not included in the staff handbook. Correct. or is it

213
01:00:25.599 --> 01:00:46.240
worded as such? >> Let me tell the exact >> It says the district prohibits the use, operation or presence on district property. So I would say that that would include staff. That would be my interpretation. >> Doc, Dr. R, while she's searching, are

214
01:00:46.240 --> 01:01:02.720
you implying or or clarifying that this is the student parent handbook, which is why it would only apply? >> Yes. So looking at that um but as well there it starts out um discussing in the interest of safety for all student staff and visitors um it is not in the

215
01:01:02.720 --> 01:01:21.280
employee manual um so um and there remind me Dr. Were there other considerations why you all included this? >> So I wouldn't say that this is also um in violation of existing city ordinance

216
01:01:21.280 --> 01:01:38.160
with independence um which um concerns ebikes, motor scooters operating in our parking lots also um had issues with sports field track and things like that. So we need to address that as well. >> Am I hearing you say Dr. current that currently with the exclusion of this

217
01:01:38.160 --> 01:01:54.079
verbiage in the employee handbook that we are violating city regulation >> the the use of ebikes motor scooter motor scooters these items are against city ordinance >> so again with this language not being in

218
01:01:54.079 --> 01:02:09.440
the employee handbook we are in violation to city ordinance >> the individuals writing it would be in violation >> which would be our staff >> and and my want to be clear I'm not I'm Not asking about the staff and stu I'm sorry parent and students. I'm I'm asking about the

219
01:02:09.440 --> 01:02:24.799
handbook we just approved. >> Well, we don't have staff riding ebikes or motor scooters. >> I don't know what people ride. I'm just I just >> Now, they do ride motorcycles, but they're legal. >> We we would have um we do have our director of public safety back there. Pete, would you like to come up and

220
01:02:24.799 --> 01:02:41.040
address that? >> And I will say in my research, I believe ebikes are allowed on streets just like bicycles are. It's the same >> classifications. >> It's it's a very long subsection of the municipal ordinance. It depends on the

221
01:02:41.040 --> 01:02:57.760
top speed capable the CC's. So for instance like a a motorcycle like Dr. Stout rides is defined differently than a motorized bicycle because his motorcycle cycle is capable of going faster than 30 miles hour and it's above

222
01:02:57.760 --> 01:03:15.440
the 50 cc's. So just by definition it's different than our current language of yeah motorized bicycles wouldn't include that by definition because of its top. >> So it wouldn't include motorcycles. >> Correct. Yes. It would not include that.

223
01:03:15.440 --> 01:03:33.680
Now once you get into miring city ordinance it gets really difficult because there's conditions like that for everything. So that's why it would probably be better to keep some general language like this or just say per section 18 municipal ordinance. So it's

224
01:03:33.680 --> 01:03:50.400
not necessarily that anybody's in violation. It's just that we're not mirroring city ordinance. And the reason for the city ordinance to have those things off the roadway depending on the top speed or the CC is because they're capable of rapid acceleration and their

225
01:03:50.400 --> 01:04:05.760
low visibility. So the issues we've had in our parking lots become dangerous because as as parents are leaving an event, as teachers are leaving for the day, a small bike capable of rapid acceleration

226
01:04:05.760 --> 01:04:21.760
is dangerous just by nature. Probably more so in a crowded parking lot than it would be on the roadway where they're openly visible. You know what I mean? So maybe I would say even on our properties, we could take it up a step because they're more congested than the road. is

227
01:04:21.760 --> 01:04:38.319
visibility is less. >> So that that is I think precisely what I'm calling out um is that we don't if if I'm understanding this correctly, please advise me. We don't have the verbiage in the employee handbook, which would mean that Dr. Seuss, if he were a

228
01:04:38.319 --> 01:04:54.640
teacher here, could write these prohibited whatever they're called if he wanted to and Lord forbid something actually does happen, we don't have it excluded in our hand. >> Correct. really those things that the city ordinance covers and prohibits on

229
01:04:54.640 --> 01:05:10.559
the roadway I would suggest shouldn't be on our parking lot alleys driveways for the same reason you know exactly and and once again probably more so because the visibility is lower right >> so we have an opportunity to clean up language a little bit I think because

230
01:05:10.559 --> 01:05:27.200
any similar motorized or battery powered personal transportation device could be something and mopeds are allowed on city streets so why can we legally. And how many students do we have driving? Like lots of students can't afford cars, but maybe they can afford a moped or a motorcycle.

231
01:05:27.200 --> 01:05:41.599
>> Sure. >> So >> again, 90% of the mopeds that we see on our city streets are illegal and they get pulled up and the unfortunate incident on 24 highway was an illegal

232
01:05:41.599 --> 01:05:58.000
vehicle that was capable of rapid acceleration. So that's my greatest concern. Isn't something like that would happen on our properties and we didn't take the necessary steps to turn it when when we had you know examples in our immediate

233
01:05:58.000 --> 01:06:16.559
jurisdiction. >> Well, I made a motion to table this and because we have an opportunity we're going to be meeting again in a couple of weeks at for our um the hearing for the budget. Can we >> clean this up and do it then? I think I

234
01:06:16.559 --> 01:06:32.640
need a second. Yeah, >> I would maybe uh amend that motion to say that we adopt the student handbook effect of July 1st, 2026 um as presented today without the language about the

235
01:06:32.640 --> 01:06:47.520
motorized vehicles >> or motorized bikes. >> Thank you. May I ask clarification just because of our last um vote? Um is that the only item that you have to consider >> for me? But I don't know about other folks

236
01:06:47.520 --> 01:07:02.880
>> or or others. Any anyone else? >> Okay. So, there has been a motion and a second a recommendation to amend the motion. Are you obliged? >> Um I I see the value in having something in there just for the safety reason. So, I

237
01:07:02.880 --> 01:07:20.400
think it would behoove us to um just wait to do it unless there is an opportunity for us to approve everything but that and then add it back in. Can we >> is there a reason why we need to um distribute those student handbooks prior

238
01:07:20.400 --> 01:07:38.400
to that date? >> You the date for the 29th. >> No, they wouldn't be. They'd need to be ready to go July one with registration or July 7th. So, we could be ready to go >> July July one. So, we >> got a week. >> Yeah. But if that's the only thing that we

239
01:07:38.400 --> 01:07:55.520
need to fix up and do, um, yeah, I would say we just table it until we can clean up that language and >> do it in June, end of June. >> Okay. So, you're in favor of tableabling the entire U handbook and not

240
01:07:55.520 --> 01:08:12.480
amending your your motion. Correct. Okay. All right. Any other discussion? All in favor say I. I. Those who oppose say nay. Thank you.

241
01:08:12.480 --> 01:08:29.120
Our 14th item this evening is the approval of breakfast and lunch crisis for students. I will entertain a motion. >> I'll make the motion. >> Second. >> Thank you. Discussion. Dr. Grant. >> And Dr. Stout.

242
01:08:29.120 --> 01:08:48.960
>> This is the last time for Dr. Stout. Uh, DESI requires districts to complete the PLE, the pay lunch equity tool to determine rates. As a result of completing the PLE, we would ask that the board of education approve a tension increase to both breakfast and lunch meal pricing for the upcoming school

243
01:08:48.960 --> 01:09:05.120
year. So, that would include student breakfast for elementary and secondary students will now be $2. Student lunch prices for elementary students will now be $35 and student lunch prices for secondary students will now be $3.20. 20 cents. So

244
01:09:05.120 --> 01:09:22.080
again, we're asking the board of education your approval. I appreciate Brad Kramer and his team. They work through this every year. Uh one other small carve out I want to bring to your attention. Usually what we try to do is bring student meal pricing to to you guys at the same time. Uh but also the

245
01:09:22.080 --> 01:09:39.239
sense of urgency to get the student hempbooks completed is why we're bringing this separate and we'll bring adult meal pricing to you probably in August because he's still waiting on some clarification from Desessie on the adult piece of this equation. Thank you.

246
01:09:40.640 --> 01:09:56.560
>> Um I know that we don't get fully reimbured for the meals, but how much will this help our bottom line by raising it? Do we have that analysis? >> We do. Um, Brad's probably got the numbers. Brad, why don't you You've got that. I know. I don't I can get close, but you might as well give the actual,

247
01:09:56.560 --> 01:10:17.040
please. >> Good evening, board members. >> Evening. >> Uh, looking at the paid uh category. We're not looking at free because free is free. Reduced doesn't change. Uh, so we're just looking at the paid category.

248
01:10:17.040 --> 01:10:34.719
uh bottom line would add uh approximately $37,900 to our program. Um so what does this go towards? It goes goes towards uh offsetting uh inflationary costs of

249
01:10:34.719 --> 01:10:52.640
food, labor, operational costs uh for our meal program. >> And what kind of inflation are we seeing? We have like a ballpark of how much >> usually uh food goes up anywhere from 4 to 10%. A couple years ago it went up

250
01:10:52.640 --> 01:11:08.719
25%. Uh so that that's usually what I gauge costs at uh for >> just out of curiosity is there a number we will not exceed as far as increasing

251
01:11:08.719 --> 01:11:25.920
costs for lunch meals? Uh we we can go as high as uh the the paid lunch equity tool uh is for uh get the movement of meal prices so that the

252
01:11:25.920 --> 01:11:42.400
free category does not supplement the paid category of students. So, uh, eventually the the goal and and it's an everm moving target is to move paid lunch price up to the free reimbursement

253
01:11:42.400 --> 01:11:57.120
p uh free reimbursement that we get from the state which is 470 471 I believe. So, it's an ever moving target. Uh, the paid launch equity tool tells us where we need to go. Uh but that would be an

254
01:11:57.120 --> 01:12:15.280
egregious uh move, a very aggressive move as far as paid lunches go. So um to offset that minimally uh we can move uh at at 10 cents, which is what we're doing now. And upon occasion, uh, we can

255
01:12:15.280 --> 01:12:32.480
we have, uh, when we've had a positive, uh, dollar amount in our non, uh, food service, uh, nonprofit food service account, we've actually held pricing flat. So, we held pricing for this year at the same rate as we did last year.

256
01:12:32.480 --> 01:12:48.000
And we did that uh, in the 23 24 school year. We held pricing that year at the 22 23 rate. So, upon occasion, uh, we we do that when we can.

257
01:12:48.000 --> 01:13:05.520
Uh, I've I've known other districts going into the 2627 school year raise prices as much as 50 cents, 75 cents. I think another district, they were going to propose a dollar increase to their paid meal price. And that just that just

258
01:13:05.520 --> 01:13:22.480
doesn't make sense to me. That's basic to in my opinion uh you're just asking for higher negative balances because if they can't afford it at 325, how are they going to afford 425? So, uh we we

259
01:13:22.480 --> 01:13:37.440
just try to strategically keep the pricing where it it it can be affordable for all. >> Can you remind me what our free reduced lunch rate is as a district? We are approximately 70%.

260
01:13:37.440 --> 01:13:55.360
>> Does that fluctuate year to year? Very >> No, it's been pretty solid. Uh we've we've fluctuated 68, 70, 71, but 70 is a safe number. >> I have a question. Um,

261
01:13:55.360 --> 01:14:11.520
>> it's my understanding that it used to be, things have changed rapidly recently, but that when the school district got to a certain rate of free or reduced lunch, that triggered um possibly even up to a full free lunch

262
01:14:11.520 --> 01:14:27.840
for the district, for the kids in the district. Are we still shooting towards that? Is that a real thing? it is a real thing. But uh in analyzing that uh that process, you're you're you're referencing community

263
01:14:27.840 --> 01:14:44.400
eligibility. Um so uh that that's definitely an interesting uh ideal. Uh it used to be set at 40% identified student percentage. Those are the students that don't have to fill out an application to

264
01:14:44.400 --> 01:15:00.560
and come in to the district free because of uh SNAP, TANF, foster care, homeless um and a couple other programs. Uh when you go to C, when you enact that,

265
01:15:00.560 --> 01:15:18.320
you're basically removing the reduce category. It's um but when you look at the reimbursement you're getting reimbured for pay and free and the elimination of that reduced category skews what was the reduced category. It

266
01:15:18.320 --> 01:15:33.360
skews more towards the paid reimbursement by about 70%. So the the paid reimbursements about 60 cents the free reimbursements about 470. So, uh, they they've allowed or they changed

267
01:15:33.360 --> 01:15:51.600
the, uh, ISP requirement from 40% to 25%. So, while they allow more districts to get into the cool district club, it's not feasible. The the cost just isn't or the reimbursement just isn't there. We're not high enough free population to

268
01:15:51.600 --> 01:16:08.320
where that works for us. The districts that that really works well for are the 90% free. We're about 59% free. So, uh to have a high initial free percentage to begin with is what would allow us to

269
01:16:08.320 --> 01:16:25.679
survive on this on that CP platform. Uh in working with Dr. Stout and Dr. Curl in years past, we would have to have approximately a 70% bump in participation for it to work for us, which is completely unrealistic. What's

270
01:16:25.679 --> 01:16:42.080
what is realistic is a 10 to 15% bump in participation. So the the loss of revenue I believe would be equivalent to six or eight teachers which I know we don't want to we don't want to forego that. >> Okay.

271
01:16:42.080 --> 01:16:58.719
>> So it's been uh for more fortuitous for us to stay on free reduced and full paid scale. >> That's what I was. >> Thank you. Any other questions or discussions? >> I just want to make a small comment. I went to the quick trip the other day and

272
01:16:58.719 --> 01:17:15.760
I spent $6 on two candy bars and the fact that we're beating a student for $3.20 is pretty impressive. So, thank you for your diligence in doing that and also thank you for taking the time to tell us all of those details that help us to understand how to make wise

273
01:17:15.760 --> 01:17:31.120
decisions for the district. >> Happy happy to do so. >> Yeah. Thank you. Appreciate it. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Thank you, Brad. Great questions. Um, thank you, uh, Reverend Wimberly, for your last question. I think it was fantastic and I really appreciate the the real

274
01:17:31.120 --> 01:17:46.239
information, I guess, to help us understand what it would look like if we were to go a different direction. Six to eight teachers, that's a big deal, right? We obviously want to feed families and children as as reasonably costly as we can. So, we saw your heart this evening. Thank you so much for

275
01:17:46.239 --> 01:18:01.679
sharing that information. All righty. our 15th. All in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Those opposed say nay. >> Thank you. That motion passes. Now onto our 15th item this evening is approval

276
01:18:01.679 --> 01:18:18.000
to accept and sign proposal for phase three restoration of the grand stand at Chrysler Stadium. Dr. Grant. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you, >> Dr. Grant. Thank you. >> Thank you. We are asking for the

277
01:18:18.000 --> 01:18:37.080
approval for the renovation of the grandstand at Chrysler Stadium at a cost of $299,531.58. Thank you for your consideration and I just have to say thank you Greg, Mr. McGee, for all your hard work. Chrysler Stadium has never looked better and it's great to see it looking like it is.

278
01:18:37.199 --> 01:18:52.719
>> Any questions or comments? Hearing none. All in favor say I. >> I. Those opposed say nay. That motion passes. Thank you. Our 16th item this evening is approval to accept proposal for the installation of

279
01:18:52.719 --> 01:19:08.480
retrofit LED sport lighting at the Chrysler Stadium. I will entertain a motion. >> I'll make that motion. Second. >> Discussion. Dr. Gray. >> Thank you. We are asking for the approval of the retrofit LED sports lighting at Chrysler Stadium at a cost

280
01:19:08.480 --> 01:19:25.600
of $210,800 from Musco Sports Lighting. Um this is what we do have um in commiserate with all of our other stadiums across the district. So and more energy efficient. >> Thank you for your consideration.

281
01:19:25.600 --> 01:19:46.159
>> Any discussions or questions for Dr. Grant? Hearing none. All in favor say I. >> I. Those opposed say nay. Motion passes. Thank you. Our 17th item this evening is approval of district 12-month contract calendar for the 2627

282
01:19:46.159 --> 01:20:02.159
school year. I will entertain a motion. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Thank you. Discussion. Dr. Grant. >> As you approve the IESP agreement earlier. This is a result of that approval. We need to adjust the 12-month calendar to reflect the approval that you approved earlier. So, thank you for

283
01:20:02.159 --> 01:20:19.679
your consideration. >> Any questions or discussions for Dr. Grant? Hearing none. All in favor say I. I. Those opposed say nay. Thank you. Motion passes. All right. Our 18th item this

284
01:20:19.679 --> 01:20:36.000
evening is approval to authorize payment to Hollis and Miller. We'll entertain a motion. >> I'll make the motion. >> Second. >> Thank you. Discussion. Dr. Grant. Correct. Again, we're just asking for the approval uh authorized payment to

285
01:20:36.000 --> 01:20:58.080
Hollis Miller for the work that they have rendered. Any discussion or questions for Dr. Grant? Okay. Hearing none. All in favor say I. >> I. >> Those opposed say nay. >> And I aband

286
01:20:58.080 --> 01:21:15.280
>> Thank you. That motion passes. Our 19th item this evening is approval of declaration of surplus items. We entertain a motion. >> So move. >> Second. >> Discussion. Dr. Grant. >> It is our quarterly time to declare our

287
01:21:15.280 --> 01:21:31.520
surplus items on gov deals. So if you're interested in any expired items, go visit. Thank you for your consideration and approval. >> Thank you, Dr. Grant. Any discussion or questions? All right, hearing none. All in favor

288
01:21:31.520 --> 01:21:48.199
say I. >> I. >> Those who oppose say nay. That motion passes. Thank you board members. I will now entertain a motion to adjurnn to close session. >> Second.

289
01:21:48.239 --> 01:22:06.320
>> We do that a little differently. >> Okay. >> I probably have it. You want to make it? There you go. I move to adjourn to close session pursuant to Missouri state statute for personnel issues 610.0213

290
01:22:06.320 --> 01:22:28.520
legal matters 610.0211 real estate 610.0212 and students 610.0216 021 at six. Second >> I

291
01:22:38.320 --> 01:22:41.920
>> we are ajourned. Thank you.