Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-11-2026 Minutes Board Work Meeting Regular Board Meeting with 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 Carissa Coats Richard Hess Paul Jenkins Randy Smith Mindy Clayton Bonneville Joint School District No. 93 is an Equal Opportunity Employer Regular Meeting Wednesday, March 11, 2026, An Executive Session will begin at 6:00 p.m. Public portion of meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m. District Office 3497 N Ammon Rd Idaho Falls, ID 83401 I. Board Work Meeting - 6:00 p.m. II. Welcome Board Chair Coats welcomed everyone in attendance at the meeting. III. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m. IV. Roll Call Paul Jenkins Present Randy Smith Present via zoom Mindy Clayton Present Richard Hess Present Carissa Coats Present V. Items moved from the Consent Agenda to discuss in Executive Session (Action Item) No action needed. No items were moved from the consent agenda. VI. Approve/Amend the Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To approve the agenda. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. VII. Supplemental Levy and Budget Planning The Board and Executive Team reviewed FY27 budget planning and supplemental levy updates, noting that overall plans remain consistent with prior discussions, with some adjustments to staffing and levy allocations. Key discussion points included targeted staffing reductions, particularly clerical and classified positions—based on enrollment shifts and updated staffing guidelines, with an estimated net reduction of several positions and continued efforts toward approximately $4 million in budget cuts. Additional savings were identified through administrative pay adjustments, potential role restructuring, and reducing or converting positions to part-time to lower benefit costs. On the supplemental levy, the total amount remained largely unchanged (approximately $9.6 million), though some items were removed or reallocated, providing greater flexibility. The team also discussed repurposing the School Communications position into a certified teaching role to support a CTE digital communications/broadcasting program. The conversation also highlighted ongoing uncertainty around enrollment and staffing needs, including the challenge of balancing class sizes while potentially turning away open enrollment revenue due to staffing limits. Overall, the Board expressed general agreement with the direction of both the budget reductions and the supplemental levy framework moving forward. VIII. Recess to the Regular Meeting IX. Regular Board Meeting - 7:00 p.m. X. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board Chair Carissa Coats XI. The invocation was given by Richard Hess. XII. The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. XIII. Roll Call Paul Jenkins Present Randy Smith Present via zoom Mindy Clayton Present Richard Hess Present Carissa Coats Present XIV. Board Opening Business XIV.A. Welcoming of Delegates and Visitors Board Chair Carissa Coats welcomed those in attendance to the meeting. XIV.B. Amend/Approve the Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To approve the regular board meeting. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XIV.C. Staff/Student Recognition TRHS - National Merit Scholar Qualifier Finalist — Amalia Spencer Tabled to the April Meeting. XIV.D. Student Council Reports Technical Careers High School Bonneville High School Technical Careers High School — The Technical Careers High School student council presented an overview of their school programs, activities, and impact, emphasizing hands-on learning and career readiness. Students highlighted how TCHS focuses on developing real -world skills through career and technical education pathways such as welding, automotive, construction, engineering, agriculture (FFA), medical programs (EMT/CNA), and a new diesel technology program. Many programs offer industry certifications, dual credit opportunities, and hands-on experiences that prepare students for future careers. The council also shared school culture and activities, including senior events, spirit weeks, and service projects. A notable example was their Christmas fundraiser, where students raised approximately $1,300 to adopt and support a local family in need. Students also participate in competitions like SkillsUSA and school-wide "Tech Wars," with several earning top placements. Overall, students emphasized strong relationships, smaller class sizes, and hands-on learning as key strengths of TCHS, noting that the school helps them build confidence, teamwork, and practical skills for both careers and life. Bonneville High School — The Bonneville High School student council presented an overview of their efforts to build a strong, inclusive school culture through student engagement, activities, and community outreach. Students emphasized creating an inclusive environment by supporting a wide range of clubs, athletics, and activities, ensuring all students feel represented. They highlighted major events such as homecoming, assemblies, spirit activities, and student-led events designed to increase participation and school connection. The council also focuses heavily on student engagement through accessible activities—both free and low-cost—including prom, lunch activities, senior events, and creative initiatives like midnight movies. A strong emphasis is placed on advertising and outreach to maximize student involvement. Community service and outreach were key components of the report. Notable efforts included adopting families for the holidays, organizing a special needs prom (expanded to include multiple schools and upgraded to a larger venue), and participating in the "Catch My Breath" program to educate younger students on health risks. Students also highlighted leadership development through retreats and statewide conferences, as well as ongoing goals of increasing involvement, strengthening connections, and building awareness of student council efforts. Overall, the presentation reflected a strong focus on inclusivity, service, and creating meaningful experiences for all students. XIV.E. Public Input: Pursuant to Board Policy #4105 Public Participation in Board Meetings, Public Input shall be held to a maximum of one (1) hour and will provide an opportunity for any Board Member, administrator, staff member, student, or patron to raise issues of interest. The Board will receive such input without comment, except to ask germane questions of those speaking. Comments should be limited to three (3) minutes. The Board will take no action relative to any items during the meeting unless on the agenda but may direct the Superintendent to report such items at a subsequent meeting. No individuals were signed up to provide public input. XIV.F. Approve Consent Agenda (Action Item) Motion: To approve the Consent Agenda. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Paul Jenkins, Passed. XIV.F.1. Minutes of Previous Meetings Amended Board Regular Meeting / Executive Session — 02-11-2026 Board Work Meeting — 02-11-2026 Board Work Meeting — 02-25-2026 XIV.F.2. Financial XIV.F.2.a. Accounts Payable $14,414,939.10 XIV.F.2.b. Contracts XIV.F.2.c. Surplus Items Ammon Elementary - Books - Surplus XIV.F.3. Employees XIV.F.3.a. Alternative Authorizations XIV.F.3.b. Conditional Employment XIV.F.3.c. Leave Requests Employee AL-2026 XIV.F.3.d. Resignations and Terminations XIV.F.3.e. Retirements XIV.F.3.f. Stipends XIV.F.3.g. Transfers XIV.F.4. Internships/Student Teachers XIV.F.5. Students XIV.F.5.a. Early Graduation Requests XIV.F.5.b. Club Requests BCMS DnD and other TTRPGs Club BCMS Miniature Painting and Strategy Games Club TRHS Outdoor Club XIV.F.5.c. Trip Requests HHS Scholastic Team to National History Bowl — Washington D.C. — 04-23-2026 to 04-27-2026 HHS Tennis Team to Parma Open Invite — Parma, Idaho - 03-13-2026 to 03-14-2026 Praxium to State National History Day - Boise, Idaho - 04-03-2026 to 04-04-2026 HHS Speech and Debate to National Speech and Debate Tournament - Richmond, VA - 06-13-2026 to 06-20-2026 RMMS Students to National History Day - Boise, Idaho - 04-03-2026 to 04-04-2026 TRHS Drama to ISU One Act Festival - Pocatello, Id - 04-24-2026 to 04-25-2026 TRHS Drama to Patty Duke Awards to Perform - Boise, Idaho - 05-14-2026 to 05-16- 2026 XIV.F.6. School Support Organizations TRHS Softball Boosters Club TRHS Baseball Club XV. Items Moved From the Consent Agenda No action needed. XVI. Finance and Operations Reports and Recommendations XVI.A. Fee Hearing Executive Director Guy Wangsgard reported that, as part of FY27 budget planning, the district is proposing limited fee adjustments. These include an increase to the Pine Basin summer camp fee from $265 to $295 due to rising food costs, as well as updates to the fee schedule to allow charges for out-of-state public records requests in accordance with recent policy and state statute. He noted that a public hearing is required before the Board can take action on these proposed fee changes. XVI.A.1. Fee Hearing Public Input No individuals were signed up to provide public input. XVI.A.2. FY27 Fee Document (Action Item) Motion: To approve the FY27 Fee Increase Document as presented. This motion, made by Paul Jenkins and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XVI.B. Supplemental Levy Resolution for May Election (Action Item) Superintendent Woolstenhulme presented a supplemental levy resolution in response to an estimated $6 million budget deficit and the rapid depletion of the district’s fund balance. He explained that while the district has already identified approximately $4 million in budget reductions, additional action is needed to maintain key student programs. He emphasized that many of the programs at risk—such as gifted and talented, music and PE, student well-being support, and all-day kindergarten—were added during periods of higher funding and have been beneficial for students. Rather than eliminating these programs outright, he recommended allowing the community to decide whether to continue funding them through an increased supplemental levy. The proposed resolution would increase the supplemental levy from $5.8 million to approximately $9.62 million. Superintendent Woolstenhulme acknowledged the financial impact on taxpayers and stressed that the district has worked to reduce costs first, presenting the levy as a way to preserve valuable programs while maintaining a balanced budget. Motion: To approve the Supplemental Levy Resolution for the May 19, 2026, election. This motion, made by Paul Jenkins and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XVI.C. FY2025 Single Audit (Action Item) Executive Director Guy Wangsgard reported that the district’s single audit, which had been delayed pending finalized federal guidelines, is now complete. He noted that the audit resulted in no findings or exceptions and is ready for Board approval and submission to the state. Motion: To approve the FY2025 single audit as presented. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XVII. Learning and Instruction Reports and Recommendations XVII.A. Ammon Honors Academy Graduation Plan Principal Nancy Jackson reported on preparations for adding ninth grade at Ammon Honors Academy, including scheduling, electives, and upcoming accreditation requirements. She presented proposed graduation requirements, which maintain the district’s 60-credit total but introduced a more customized structure with two pathways: STEM and STEAM. Adjustments include increased credits in math and science, the addition of a digital literacy course, and replacing the senior project with a future readiness requirement. The pathways are designed to provide more focused learning in either technical or humanities areas while still allowing flexibility for electives. Ms. Jackson emphasized that the plan supports dual credit opportunities and potential associate degree pathways without limiting student choice. She also noted strong collaboration with other schools and the College of Eastern Idaho to support course offerings during the transition year. XVII.B. Curriculum Committee Recommendations (Action Item) Executive Director Jason Lords presented several teacher-requested curriculum items for Board approval, including supplemental literacy and math programs, novels, and theater productions. He explained that some resources, such as the phonemic awareness program and digital math platform, would be used as pilots or supplements to existing curriculum, with an emphasis on ensuring alignment with district goals and avoiding unnecessary additions. The remaining requests included age-appropriate instructional materials—such as middle and high school novels addressing historical and social themes—and play scripts and musicals selected to provide broad student participation opportunities. Mr. Lords recommended approval of all requested items, noting they are educationally appropriate, align with instructional standards, and support student engagement across content areas. ● 95 Percent Phonemic Awareness Suite (Software) ● IXL Take Off Math - Elementary Math Intervention ● 10 Ways to Survive the Zombie Apocalypse — Play Script ● When the World Was Ours — Middle School English Language Arts ● Long Way Down — High School English Language Arts ● Finding Neverland — High School Musical Theater ● Harvey — High School Drama Motion: To approve the Curriculum Committee's recommendation for the requested curriculum for use in the appropriate classes. This motion, made by Paul Jenkins and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XVII.C. Proposed Policy 3281 Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation for Final Adoption (Action Item) The Board agreed to table proposed Policy 3281 to allow for further clarification on specific language and prior revisions. Legal counsel will review the policy with the Board during an upcoming work session to address remaining questions before bringing it back in April for consideration. NO ACTION TAKEN – Tabled XVIII. Superintendent Reports and Recommendations XVIII.A. Employee Appreciation Day Resolution for May 8, 2026 (Action Item) Superintendent Woolstenhulme proposed designating May 8 as a Teacher and Staff Appreciation Day, making it a paid day off for staff and a non-school day for students. He explained that, due to two consecutive years without snow days, the district has excess instructional hours built into the calendar, allowing this adjustment while still meeting state requirements. Motion: To approve the Employee Appreciation Day Resolution for May 8, 2026, as presented. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XVIII.B. Proposed Policy 1260 Authorization Signatures for Initial Consideration Superintendent Woolstenhulme presented Policy 1260 for initial consideration, explaining that updates are needed to align with current state law and clarify purchasing authority. The revised policy increases the threshold for Board approval to $100,000 and allows delegation of lower amounts to administrative staff. He also noted the policy addresses a gap by granting principals limited signature authority (up to $5,000) with appropriate safeguards, including restrictions on multi-year agreements and compliance with data privacy requirements. Overall, the revisions aim to provide clearer guidance, improve efficiency, and ensure proper oversight of contracts and purchasing decisions. XVIII.C. Proposed Policy 4297 Public Access to District Records for public review (Action Item) The proposed update to Policy 4297 revises the district’s public records request procedures to align with recent changes in state law, including allowing different fee structures and responses for out-of-state versus in-state requests. The revisions have been developed with legal guidance, and the policy is ready to move forward for public review. Motion: To approve Policy 4297 Public Access to District Records for Public Review. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XIX. Planning and Personnel Reports and Recommendations XX. Executive Session (Action Item) The Board will enter into Executive Session pursuant to Idaho Code 74-206(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 Mindy Clayton and seconded by Paul Jenkins, Passed. Roll Call Vote Paul Jenkins Yes Randy Smith Yes via zoom Mindy Clayton Yes Richard Hess Yes Carissa Coats Yes The Board entered Executive Session at 8:30 p.m. XX.A. Student Recommendations XX.A.1. Student N-2026 (Action Item) Motion: To approve the recommended disciplinary action for Student N-2026. This motion, made by Paul Jenkins and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. XX.A.2. Student O-2026 (Action Item) No motion needed - just a discussion XX.A.3. Student P-2026 (Action Item) Motion: To approve the recommended disciplinary action for Student P-2026. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Mindy Clayton, Passed. XX.A.4. Student Q-2026 (Action Item) Motion not needed. XX.B. Student Suspension Report Superintendent Woolstenhulme reviewed the suspension report with the Board. XX.C. Employee Recommendations XX.D. Close Executive Session (Action Item) Motion: To close Executive Session. This motion, made by Richard Hess and seconded by Paul Jenkins, Passed. The Board closed Executive Session at 8:42 p.m. XXI. Board Closing Business XXI.A. Request for Agenda Items for Upcoming Meetings (Action Item) The Board requested the following agenda items for upcoming meetings: ● Kindergarten preparation ● School safety protocols XXI.B. Adjournment (Action Item) Motion: To adjourn the meeting. This motion, made by Mindy Clayton and seconded by Richard Hess, Passed. The meeting adjourned at 8:45 p.m. APPROVED: ______________________________________ Chairman ATTESTED: _______________________________________ Clerk DATE: ___________________________________