The monthly meeting of the Board of Education of USD 509 was held on Wednesday, February 10, 2010 at 7:00 pm after being postponed from February 8, 2010 due to inclement weather in the school library with the following present: Todd Ray, Amy Brown, Glennis Zimmerman, Delmer Spencer Jr, Sharon Mason, Chris Deyoe, Brett Butler, John Showman, Kim White, Suzy Davidson and approximately 25 patrons, parents and staff.

Several guests came prepared to speak and voice their views and present suggestions to the board concerning the consolidation issue. Giving presentations, making suggestions or just sharing their thoughts with the board were Luke Theurer, Suzie Bacon, Bryon Bacon, Jeff Ralls, Robin Ralls, Jason Messenger, Bryan Smith, Joann Lopez, Melinda Byers, Michele Barlow, Deb Ray, Brenda Bacon, Ryan Bohannon, Kelly Hughes, Cindy Blunk and Katrina Hallman.

The Board conducted an informal poll at this point to get an idea of where everyone stood on the consolidation issue. Four Board members were against pursuing a public vote at this time and three Board members are for putting it to a vote. This was not an official motion or vote.

Following the adoption of the agenda, the minutes of the regular board meeting of January 11, 2010 and the joint board meeting of January 27, 2010 were read and approved.

The Board reviewed the general fund summary and purchase orders and approved the February warrants for payment.

Sharon Mason gave an update on Interlocal #619, and Glennis Zimmerman gave an update on governmental relations.

Wayne Greenlee and Cindy Blunk, junior class sponsors, were present to discuss prom plans for this year and senior trip plans for next year.

Discussion was held on the following with no action taken: Consolidation issues, possible staff or program reductions for 2010-2011, the January 27, 2010 joint board meeting with Caldwell’s BOE, and an informal meeting held over IDL with both boards held on February 8, 2010.

Following executive sessions for the discussion of negotiations and personnel, the board voted to accept the resignation of James Ryan, Vocational Education Instructor, to be effective June 30, 2010, the end of his contract year.

Mrs. White gave the monthly Principal’s Report with no discussion, but opened the floor for questions from the Board.

Mr. Showman’s monthly Superintendent’s report included very brief updates on facilities and the repair of a sewer line, school vehicle repairs, the upcoming KASB Governmental Relations Seminar held in Topeka on February 17th and 18th, and renewing the district’s contract with Busby, Ford & Reimer to perform the financial audits and help with budget preparation.

The meeting was closed at 12:33 am.

Submitted by Suzy Davidson,
Board Clerk