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Home My WebLink About04-09-2025 Minutes Regular Board Meeting Executive SessionDr. Scott Woolstenhulme, Superintendent 3497 North Ammon Road, Idaho Falls, Idaho, 83401  (208) 525-4400  Fax (208) 557-6800  www.d93schools.org Board of Trustees  Paul Jenkins  Carissa Coats  Randy Smith  Mindy Clayton  Richard Hess Bonneville Joint School District No. 93 is an Equal Opportunity Employer Amended Regular Meeting/Executive Session Wednesday, April 9, 2025, An Executive Session will begin at 6:00 p.m. Public portion of meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. Thunder Ridge High School Performing Arts Center 4941 E 1st Street Idaho Falls, ID 83401 I. Call to Order Chairman Jenkins called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. II. Roll Call Mindy Clayton: Present Carissa Coats: Present Richard Hess: Present Paul Jenkins: Present Randy Smith: Present III. Items that need to be moved from the consent agenda to discuss in Executive Session. Chairman Jenkins asked if any board members would like to move any item from the consent agenda to discuss in executive session. No requests were made. IV. Amend the Executive Session Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To amend the agenda as presented. This motion, made by Randy Smith and seconded by Carissa Coats, Passed. Chairman Jenkins stated that A Board Member moves that the Board pursuant to Idaho Code §74 -204(4)(a) Amend the Agenda for this meeting as follows: To add: Employee AS-2025, and AT-2025 to the Executive Session as a discussion item under Employee Recommendations. To add: Employee AS-2025 and AT-2025 as action items on the regular agenda under Planning and Personnel Reports and Recommendations. These items were received yesterday and are time sensitive. V. Approve the Amended Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To approve the amended agenda. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. VI. Executive Session (Action Item) The Board will enter into an Executive Session pursuant to Idaho Code 74 -206 1(a) to consider hiring a public officer, employee, staff member or individual agent, wherein the respective qualities of individuals are to be evaluated in order to fill a particular vacancy or need and (1)(b) to consider the evaluation, dismissal, or disciplining of, or to hear complaints or charges brought against, a public officer, employee, staff member, or individual agent, or public school student. The Executive Session will be closed to the public as permitted by law. Motion: To enter executive session. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. Roll Call Vote Carissa Coats: Yes Randy Smith: Yes Mindy Clayton: Yes Richard Hess: Yes Paul Jenkins: Yes VI.A. Employee Recommendations The board and the Executive Team discussed the following employees. No action was taken during executive session. VI.A.1. Leave Without Pay Employee AJ-2025 Employee AK-2025 Employee AL-2025 Employee AM-2025 Employee AN-2025 Employee AO-2025 Employee AR - 2025 (1-12) VI.A.2. Employee AQ-2025 The board and the Executive Team discussed Employee AQ-2025. VI.A.3. Employee AS-2025 The Board and the Executive Team discussed Employee AS-2025. VI.A.4. Employee AT-2025 The Board and the Executive Team discussed Employee AT-2025 VI.A.5. Thunder Ridge High School Assistant Principal Recommendation Thunder Ridge Principal Trent Dabell and the Board discussed the recommendation for an assistant principal. VI.A.6. Hillcrest High School Assistant Principal Recommendation Tyler Mills, Assistant Principal, discussed with the Board the recommendation for the new assistant principal. VI.A.7. Rocky Mountain Middle School Principal Recommendation Superintendent Woolstenhulme and the Board discussed the recommendation for the new principal at Rocky Mountain Middle School. VI.B. Close Executive Session (Action Item) Motion: To close Executive Session. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. The Executive Session closed at 6:44 p.m. VII. Pledge of Allegiance was led by Chairman Jenkins. VIII. The invocation was given by Nate Egan. IX. Board Opening Business IX.A. Welcoming of Delegates and Visitors Chairman Jenkins welcomed all to the meeting. He reminded those who would like to participate in public input to sign the sheet. IX.B. Amend the Regular Agenda (Action Item) Chairman Jenkins stated that A Board Member moves that the Board pursuant to Idaho Code §74 -204(4)(a) Amend the Agenda for this meeting as follows: To add: Employee AS-2025, and AT-2025 to the Executive Session as a discussion item under Employee Recommendations. To add: Employee AS-2025 and AT-2025 as action items on the regular agenda under Planning and Personnel Reports and Recommendations. These items were received yesterday and are time sensitive. Motion: To amend the regular agenda as presented. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Carissa Coats, Passed. IX.C. Amend/Approve the Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To approve the amended agenda. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Carissa Coats, Passed. IX.D. Staff/Student Recognition TRHS IHSAA 6A Wrestling State Champion in the 144 Weight Class - Onyx Kunsaitis Thunder Ridge's wrestling coach, Jody Webb introduced Onyx Kunsaitis, a sophomore at Thunder Ridge High School, as the IHSAA State Wrestling Champion in the 144 -pound weight class. Last year, as a freshman, he placed fourth in the state at 132 pounds, which is especially impressive given the difficulty of those weight classes. Known for his humility, work ethic, and strong family support, Onyx puts in time both during the season and in the offseason, recently earning All-American honors at the Folkstyle Nationals in Iowa. He proudly represents his school and district with class and enjoys competing at a high level against top talent from across the country. HHS IHSAA 5A Wrestling State Champion in the 285 Weight Class - Austin Reeves Austin Reeves, a student-athlete from Hillcrest High School, was recognized by his coach Ian Moore for his outstanding achievements both academically and athletically. He maintained strong grades while taking challenging classes and showed exceptional leadership. This year, Austin won a state championship in football as the starting center and went undefeated to become a state wrestling champion. Despite facing both physical and mental challenges throughout the season, he remained focused and resilient. Austin credited his success to his coaches, training partners, family, and faith, highlighting the importance of teamwork and dedication. He shared that wrestling's mental toughness was the hardest part but pushed through with perseverance. IX.E. Student Council Reports The Thunder Ridge High School Student Council presented a report highlighting their leadership, service, and community engagement throughout the school year. The council completed a variety of projects, including: • Service Projects: School clean-ups, hot chocolate giveaways, trick-or-treat events, teacher appreciation gifts, and volunteer work like helping with janitorial tasks and organizing community races. • Unity Projects: Pep assemblies, student vs. teacher basketball games, Freshman Friday recognitions, and spirit-boosting activities like game nights and student section enhancements. • Fundraising: Creative efforts like date auctions, senior sweatshirt sales, thrift sales, and food concessions supported school events and charitable causes such as Adopt-a-Family. • Leadership Involvement: A student represented the school as a regional president on the Idaho State Student Council Association, organizing conferences and promoting inter -school collaboration. Upcoming Initiatives: The council is planning end-of-year celebrations, recognition for underrepresented student groups (like the baseball team), and legacy gifts from seniors to incoming students. The Bonneville High School Student Council presented a detailed report to the board, highlighting a wide range of activities and accomplishments throughout the school year. They worked hard to foster school spirit, unity, and community involvement. • Decorations & Spirit Events: Each class decorated hallways for events like Homecoming and Christmas. They also led assemblies and spirit games to boost student engagement. • Major Events: Homecoming and prom were major undertakings, requiring extensive planning, decorating, and teamwork. The council also organized a senior sunrise, senior sunset, graduation planning, and a senior all-night party. • Community Service & Appreciation: They hosted appreciation weeks for teachers and counselors, conducted blood drives, adopted families during the holidays, and organized a prom for special needs students. • Fundraising & Student Engagement: Fundraisers like "Star Soda" and dodgeball tournaments helped fund activities. They also initiated inclusive programs like the Student Council Representative Program for students who weren’t elected but still wanted to participate. • Leadership & Growth: Student leaders worked to strengthen council unity through monthly bonding and discussion sessions. They also improved communication with administration through regular meetings. • State Recognition: The council attended the state student leadership conference, where they won prestigious awards including the OSC Award and Spirit Stick, showcasing their dedication and excellence. IX.F. Consent Agenda Public Input: Pursuant to Board Policy #4105 Public Participation in Board Meetings, The Board will accept public input on any item listed on tonight's agenda. State law prohibits comments on matters not on the agenda. Public input will be heard at the start of each agenda section and before any action is taken. Please limit comments to three minutes to allow everyone who desires the opportunity to participate. The Board will listen but will not engage in discussion, though members may ask clarifying questions. The Board opened up the floor for public comment. Jake Broka, a student at Thunder Ridge High School and president of the eSports Club, addressed the Board to advocate for greater support for eSports. He requested the district’s help in working with the Idaho High School Activities Association (IHSAA) to recognize eSports as an official school activity statewide. He explained that formal recognition would benefit smaller schools and help legitimize eSports across Idaho. Jake also requested consideration for a dedicated class period for eSports participants , similar to what is offered for other IHSAA- sanctioned sports, to help with scheduling and in-person collaboration. District leaders responded by explaining that such a class could only be offered if eSports became an IHSAA -approved activity or if a new course was proposed with clear academic content. IX.G. Approve Consent Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To approve the Consent Agenda. This motion, made by Randy Smith and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. IX.G.1. Minutes of Previous Meetings Regular Board Meeting / Executive Session - 03-12-2025 Board Work Meeting - 03-19-2025 Board Work Meeting / Executive Session - 04-02-2025 IX.G.2. Financial IX.G.2.a. Accounts Payable $13,604,030.35 IX.G.2.b. Contracts Carpet Quote from the Mohawk Group IX.G.2.c. Surplus Items Child Nutrition - Freezer - Surplus Child Nutrition - Milk Cooler - Surplus Child Nutrition - Stick Thermometers - Surplus Cloverdale - Books - Surplus Curriculum - 1st Grade Readers - Surplus Transportation - Bus - Surplus IX.G.3. Employees IX.G.3.a. Category 1 Rehires IX.G.3.b. Conditional Employment IX.G.3.c. Leave Requests Employee AJ-2025 Employee AK-2025 Employee AL-2025 Employee AM-2025 Employee AN-2025 Employee AO-2025 Employee AR-2025 (1-12) IX.G.3.d. Resignations and Terminations IX.G.3.e. Retirements IX.G.3.f. Stipends IX.G.3.g. Summer Hires IX.G.3.h. Transfers IX.G.4. Students IX.G.4.a. Early Graduation Requests IX.G.4.b. Club Requests IX.G.4.c. Trip Requests TCHS FFA to Career Development Competition - Moscow, Idaho - 06-02-2025 to 06-06-2025 BHS Hope Squad - Annual Service Trip - SLC, Utah - 05-19-2025 to 05-20-2025 TRHS BPA to Nationals - Orlando, FL - 04-06-2025 to 05-11-2025 HHS FCCLA to 2025 State Leadership Conference - Boise, Idaho - 04-15-2025 to 04-18-2025 TRHS Drama to One Act Festival - Pocatello, Idaho - 04-18-2025 to 04-19-2025 HHS Hillcrest Science Student to International Science Fair - Columbus, Ohio - 05-10-2025 to 05-16-2025 HHS Football to Football Camp - Bozeman, MT - 06-16-2025 to 06-18-2025 TRHS National Speech and Debate National Tournament - Des Moines, IA - 06-14-2025 to 06-22-2025 IX.G.5. Football Equipment Use Requests TRHS HHS X. Items Moved From the Consent Agenda This was not needed. XI. Finance and Operations Reports and Recommendations XI.A. Fee Hearing XI.A.1. Fee Increase Presentation Guy Wangsgard, Executive Director of Finance and Operations, presented a report on proposed fee increases, explaining that under Idaho law, any new fee or any existing fee increasing by 5% or more must be approved by the Board following a public hearing and two weeks’ public notice. The Board reviewed a list of fees that met these criteria, many of which were previously in place but had not been officially approved. Among the proposed changes was an increase in summer meal prices from $2.40 to $2.65, driven by rising food and delivery costs. Adjustments were also recommended for facility rental fees to bring them closer to market value, with revenues directed toward improving those facilities. Updates to building use agreements were also included. Nonprofit organizations may still be charged fees, depending on their use and staffing needs, though they typically receive discounted rates. He clarified that student activity fees—such as those for dance or football—remain within their respective programs, while g ate revenues from major sports like football and basketball help support the broader activities budget across all programs. XI.A.2. Public Input The floor was opened up for public input. There was no one who signed up to participate. XI.A.3. Fee Documents (Action Item) Motion: To approve the fee document as presented. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XII. Planning and Personnel Reports and Recommendations XII.A. Planning and Personnel Reports and Recommendations Public Input. There was no one who was signed up to participate in planning and personnel reports and recommendations public input. XII.B. Rocky Mountain Middle School Principal (Action Item) Jared Dotson was officially recommended and accepted as the new principal of Rocky Mountain Middle School, following the reassignment of former principal Scott Thunstrom. Jared has served as assistant principal at Rocky Mountain for the past four and a half years, during which he played a key role in leading professional learning communities, supporting both student-focused and content area teams, and implementing innovative behavior support strategies. The selection process included input from parents and teachers, and Jared was praised for his strong leadership, dedication, and outstanding performance. His appointment reflects the district's commitment to fostering a positive school culture and attracting high -quality leaders. Motion: To approve Jared Dotson as the principal at Rocky Mountain Middle School. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XII.C. Hillcrest High School Assistant Principal (Action Item) Matt Houser was recommended and approved as the new assistant principal at Hillcrest High School. He brings extensive experience, having previously served as the dean of students at Idaho Falls High School, and is currently the assistant principal at Eagle Rock Middle School. His enthusiasm for education, commitment to students and staff, and strong leadership background were praised. The selection process drew 39 highly qualified applicants, reflecting the district’s strong reputation. Matt expressed gratitude to his family and looks forward to contributing to Hillcrest’s continued success. Motion: To approve Matt Houser as the assistant principal at Hillcrest High School. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. XII.D. Thunder Ridge High School Assistant Principal (Action Item) Heath Ferguson was recommended and unanimously approved as the new assistant principal at Thunder Ridge High School. Currently a social studies teacher at Hillcrest High School, Heath was selected from a competitive pool of 39 applicants and stood out during the interview process for his preparation, professionalism, and thoughtful engagement with the committee. His dedication to education and leadership was clear, as he is in the process of completing his master’s degree while working full-time and raising a family. Heath expressed deep gratitude to his family and colleagues and shared his excitement to step into this long -time goal and to serve the Thunder Ridge community in a leadership role. Motion: To approve Heath Ferguson as the assistant principal at Thunder Ridge High School. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Carissa Coats, Passed. XII.E. Land Acquisition: Authorization to purchase Parcel RP02N38E034803 (Action Item) Superintendent Woolstenhulme recommended that the Board move forward with acquiring parcel RP02N38E034803, located immediately west of Bonneville High School. This recommendation followed an appraisal conducted at the Board's request, with the long -term goal of using the property as a future site to rebuild Bonneville High School. Woolstenhulme explained that this would be a more strategic and fiscally responsible option than building a fourth high school, especially given the district's slower growth trends. The new site would allow Bonneville to be rebuilt with capacity for around 2,000 students and would also provide the opportunity to relocate Rocky Mountain Middle School into the current Bonneville building, serving 1,000 -1,200 students and extending the viability of the district’s three high school configuration for another 20-25 years. This acquisition would preserve and continue use of existing athletic facilities, saving significant taxpayer investment, while also addressing long-term needs for the district’s Technical Careers High School, which currently lack s adequate expansion space. Woolstenhulme also noted that this plan aligns with the district’s 12 -year facilities plan from 2017-2018, and it is supported by recent state modernization funds that allow for site purchases for future classroom needs. The Board was asked to approve the appraisal and authorize negotiations to purchase the property in two motions. Motion 1: To accept the appraisal for Parcel RP02N38E034803 as presented. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. Motion 2: To authorize the administration to negotiate the purchase of Parcel RP02N38E034803. This motion was made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XII.F. Roofing Bid Rejections (Action Item) John Pymm, Director of Facilities and Maintenance, recommended that the Board reject the bids for two roofing projects because the submitted bids came in significantly over budget. He explained that the district would rework the project scope to make it more cost-effective, focusing on necessary repairs rather than full replacements. The revised plan would encapsulate, rather than remove, existing asbestos material —an approach permitted under federal law—and still provide a durable solution expected to last 20 to 30 years. Motion: To reject the submitted roofing bids and authorize the administration to post for bids with revised specifications. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XII.G. Employee AQ-2025 (Action Item) Motion: To accept the resignation of Employee AQ-2025. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Carissa Coats, Passed. XII.H. Employee AS-2025 (Action Item) Motion: To approve the release of contract for Employee AS-2025. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. XII.I. Employee AT-2025 (Action Item) Motion: To approve the request for an emergency authorization for 4th grade at Ucon Elementary and hire Employee Abigail Hanks. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XIII. Learning and Instruction Reports and Recommendations XIII.A. Learning and Instruction Reports and Recommendations Public Input. There was no one who signed up for Learning and Instruction reports and recommendations public input. XIII.B. Federal Programs Rex Miller, Director of Federal Programs, and Wendy Landon, Director of Special Education shared the powerful story behind the numbers in our federal and special education programs. These aren’t just statistics, they represent our most vulnerable students: those experiencing poverty, trauma, homelessness, foster care, or navigating school in a new language and culture. They spoke passionately about how Title I, Migrant, English Learner, and Special Education programs are lifelines for children in crisis. These initiatives place "everyday angel” teachers, paraprofessionals, and counselors—in classrooms to support students who need stability, understanding, and belief in their potential. The report highlighted the growing needs increases in English learners, migrant students, and those facing housing insecurity. And while funding helps, it’s the people who show up for these kids every day—who make the difference. With heartfelt gratitude, Rex and Wendy thanked the Board for providing the foundation to make this work possible, calling them the first link in a chain of care and opportunity. Amid looming federal funding uncertainties, the report emphasized the urgency of strategizing for the future, ensuring no child is left behind because of budget constraints. As Rex said, "These kids need people. They need adults in their lives who believe in them." Their message was clear: we don’t just fund programs—we build futures, heal trauma, and change lives, one child at a time. XIII.C. Proposed Policy 2380 Homebound, Hospital, and Home Instruction for Final Adoption (Action Item) Motion: To approve Proposed Policy 2380 Homebound, Hospital, and Home Instruction for final adoption. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. XIII.D. Proposed Policy 3530 Suicide Prevention, Intervention, and Postvention for Final Adoption (Action Item) Motion: To approve Proposed Policy 3530 Suicide Prevention, Intervention, and Postvention for final adoption. This motion, made by Randy Smith and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XIII.E. Proposed Policy 9805 Memorials on School Grounds for Final Adoption (Action Item) Motion: To approve Proposed Policy 9305 Memorials on School Grounds for final adoption. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XIV. Superintendent Reports and Recommendations XIV.A. Superintendent Reports and Recommendations Public Input. There was an individual in the audience who did not sign up for public input, however it was allowed by the Board after the Boundary Change discussion. Emily Hayes emphasized the importance of considering students' social experiences when redrawing boundaries. She supported efforts to balance socioeconomic diversity but shared her daughter's perspective as a Falls Valley student attending Bonneville High School. Her daughter felt intimidated by the socioeconomic differences and didn’t want to be seen as "the poor kid" at a new school. Hayes encouraged the Board to consider the impact such boundary changes might have on students' sense of belonging, especially when mixing neighborhoods of differing economic backgrounds. XIV.B. Boundary Change Priorities (Action Item) Superintendent Woolstenhulme shared the results from a recent survey conducted with staff and families regarding priorities for boundary changes in preparation for the opening of Willow Creek Elementary. After reviewing the survey findings with school principals, Dr. Woolstenhulme presented the following priorities to the School Board: 1. Student Safety • Ensure safe walking routes and minimize the need for students to cross major roads. 2. Balance Socioeconomic Distribution • Maintain a reasonable balance of low-income and special education students across all schools. 3. Longevity • Establish boundaries that will serve the district effectively for at least 7 -10 years, taking into account population trends and new developments. 4. Community Bonds • Foster the creation of neighborhood schools, minimize isolated "islands," and align with secondary school boundaries whenever possible. The School Board also discussed the challenges of aligning elementary boundaries with middle and high schools. While this alignment would provide continuity, it could disrupt the district's socioeconomic diversity. There is a concern that wealthier students may concentrate in the newest school, Thunder Ridge, while lower-income students may be placed elsewhere. District leaders believe that preserving balance and equity must take priority. Additionally, the Board acknowledged community concerns regarding op en enrollment, class sizes, and the impact of specialized programs like Praxium and Technical Careers High School. These programs serve students across the district and may further influence the relevance of boundary decisions. Motion: To adopt the boundary change priorities for the 2026 -2027 school year as presented. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. XIV.C. Ammon and Praxium Proposal The Board and Superintendent Woolstenhulme held a detailed discussion about boundary planning in preparation for the opening of Willow Creek Elementary in 2026. A major point of consideration was whether to relocate —a program currently limited in its growth potential due to space constraints—into Ammon Elementary's building. This move could reduce the need for future boundary disruptions and better utilize existing space. Three key benefits of relocating Praxium to Ammon were identified: 1. Increased student choice and opportunity for expansion into higher grades. 2. Efficient use of facilities, especially amid flat overall enrollment but overcrowding in modular classrooms. 3. Cost savings, with a projected $50,000 offset from the larger facility and shared staffing resources. The survey results showed the majority of support from both staff (71%) and parents (57%), with some opposition rooted in the historical and emotional significance of Ammon Elementary and concerns about community disruption, traffic, and transparency. The district emphasized that the building would not be closed but repurposed, continuing to serve students. The emotional impact on the Ammon Faculty, who have built strong bonds through years of service and challenges, was acknowledged with deep respect. The board agreed to host a public input meeting on April 21 at Ammon Elementary, allowing the community and the Ammon and Praxium faculties to share their thoughts directly before a final decision is made by the end of the school year. XV. Board Closing Business XV.A. Upcoming Events XV.A.1. Retirement Open House - May 5, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at Rocky Mountain MS The Board Clerk will post a board attendance notice for the upcoming retirement open house. XV.B. Public Input for Ammon/Praxium planning The Board and Superintendent Woolstenhulme decided that on April 21, 2025, the Board will hold a D93 Live/Public Input at Ammon Elementary at 7:00 p.m. XV.C. Graduation Speech Assignments Thursday, May 29th at the Hillcrest PAC • Bonneville Online HS - 4:00 p.m. • Lincoln HS - 6:00 p.m. • Technical Careers HS - 8:00 p.m. Friday, May 30th at The Mountain America Center • Hillcrest HS - 11:00 a.m. • Thunder Ridge HS - 2:30 p.m. • Bonneville HS - 6:00 p.m. The Board asked that the Board Clerk make the assignments for graduation speeches. She will email the assignments to the board. XV.D. Request for Agenda Items for Upcoming Meetings (Action Item) There were no requests from patrons or the Board at this time. No action needed. XV.E. Adjournment (Action Item) Motion: To adjourn the meeting. This motion, made by Carissa Coats and seconded by Randy Smith, Passed. The meeting adjourned at 9:47 p.m. APPROVED: ______________________________________ Chairman ATTESTED: _______________________________________ Clerk DATE: ___________________________________