Tuesday, December 11, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, December 10, 2018 Regular Meeting

The Muscatine Schools' Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, December 10, 2018 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors John Dabeet, Nathan Mather, Toby McCarter, Randy Naber, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Director Aaron Finn was present via phone as he was out of town on business. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.


  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. Citizens Speak
    1. Edward Askew spoke about the County's use of slag and how it is toxic and damaging of vehicle's tires.
  4. Muscatine High School Student Council Representatives updated the board on student council activities.
  5. Muscatine Schools Outstanding Employees for December were recognized: Doreen Borde, Kelli Holthe, Heidi Kuo, Dawn Thompson, and Sarah Walsh. 
  6. Muscatine High School special education instructors Jeff Schmelzer and Laura Koch presented information on Bags of Blessings
  7. Board Targets/Goals Report:
    1. Superintendent Riibe provided information on a possible curriculum audit.
  8. Consent agenda was approved:
    1. Minutes of the November 12, Regular Meeting.
    2. Employment Recommendations:
      1. Resignations - Certified Administrators: Mary Beilke, effective January 3, 2019.
      2. New Hires - Schedule C: Travis Morgan, MHS Basketball Assistant; Jackson Foulk, MHS Basketball Assistant; Michael Simpson, MS Assistant Swimming; Ellie Thomas, MHS AP Coordinator.
      3. Resignations - Schedule C: Ellen Carey - MHS Assistant Softball; Marcy Duffe, MS Track.
    3. Bills and Claims Against the District dated December 10, 2018.
    4. The Special Education Contracts.
  9. Public Hearing was set for the MHS Science/STEM Project, McKinley Elementary Project, and the Colorado Elementary Project for Monday, January 14, 2019 at 7 p.m. at City Hall in Council Chambers.
  10. Approved the resolution to have attorney David J. Meloy draft the documents and take the steps necessary to dissolve the Muscatine Community School Foundation as an Iowa non-profit corporation.
  11. Approved administration authority to seek modified supplemental amount from the School Budget Review Committee (SBRC)  for Open Enrollment OUt not in Fall 2017 for $387,844 and ELL served beyond 5 years for $200,059. 
  12. Approved the contract with IMEG for engineering and surveying services for Madison Elementary. 
  13. Legat Architects and McKinley Staff presented information on the McKinley Elementary Project.
  14. Update provided on the preschool/elementary/middle school transition and reconfiguration.
  15. Information was given on the Interest-Based Problem Solving (IBPS) framework.
  16. October 2018  financials were reviewed.
  17. The following announcements of upcoming meetings and events:
    1. December 21, 2018: 2-Hour Early Dismissal
    2. December 24, 2018-January 1, 2019: Winter Break
    3. January 2, 2019: Teacher Inservice - No School
    4. January 3, 2019: 2nd Semester Begins
    5. January 14, 2019: Regular Board Meeting; 7 PM; City Hall
  18. The meeting adjourned at 9:21 p.m.

Tuesday, November 13, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, November 12, 2018 Regular Board Meeting

The Board of Education of the Muscatine Community School District met in regular session on Monday, October 8, 2018, at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors John Dabeet, Aaron Finn, Nathan Mather, Toby McCarter, Randy Naber, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.
  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  4. Council Representatives Tess Rauenbuehler and Ellie Howard provided a student council update.
  5. November's Outstanding Employees were recognized. They are Rochelle Bonebrake, Ellen Carey, Aaron Smith, Jonathan Thoma, and Katie Yetter. To recognize an employee who goes above and beyond on a continual basis, go to the Employee Recognition Form.
  6. Board Goals/Targets:
    1. Jeff Heid and Jonathan Thoma provided an update on the recent instrumental music purchase project that was approved by the Board in May 2017.
  7. The consent agenda was approved as follows:
    1. The minutes of October 8, 2018, Regular Meeting and October 22, 2018, Work Session.
    2. Employment Recommendations:
      1. Resignations: Lisa Turbett, CMS Math, effective 12/21/2018.
      2.  New Hires - Schedule C: Kevin Lloyd - MHS Boys Golf Assistant; Scott Mauck - MHS Football Assistant; Barton Howard - MHS Girls Assistant Cross Country; Jacob Huebener - WMS Mock Trial; Ann Edkin - CMS Girls Basketball.
      3. Resignations - Schedule C: Ellen Carey - MHS Softball.
    3. Bills and Claims Against the District dated November 12, 2018.
  8. Approved the following: 2019-20 School Year: The sixth grade will be a part of the elementary school program; Colorado Elementary will no longer be a K-5 school, but will become the district’s preschool center; Central Middle School and West Middle School will operate with grades 7 and 8 only; Colorado Elementary will become part of the Madison Elementary attendance area. (If Madison would not be the best choice for a family, Colorado parents will be given first priority for any open grade levels in the other elementary buildings for in-district transfers.)  2020-21 School Year: Central Middle School will close and all 7th and 8th grades will be located at West Middle School.
  9. September 2018  financials were reviewed.
  10. The following meetings and events were announced:
    1. November 12-16, 2018: National Education Week
    2. November 14-15, 2018: IASB Annual Convention; Des Moines
    3. November 21, 2018: 2-Hour Early Dismissal
    4. November 22-23, 2018: Thanksgiving Holiday
    5. December 10, 2018: Regular Meeting; 7 p.m.; City Hall
  11. The meeting adjourned at 7:52 p.m.


To see the board agenda and its supporting documents: November 12, 2018 Agenda
To watch this meeting via the district's YouTube Channel: MCSD YouTube Channel


Tuesday, October 23, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, October 22, 2018 Planning Session

The Muscatine School's Board of Education met in work session on Monday, October 22, 2018 at 6 p.m. at the MCSD Administration Center. Those present were: John Dabeet, Tammi Drawbaugh, Nathan Mather, Randy Naber, and Mary Wildermuth. Those absent were: Aaron Finn and Toby McCarter. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.


  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Media representatives and visitors were welcomed.
  3. The following people presented information on the proposed Early Learning Center: Preschool teacher Noelia Espinal, Begindergarten teacher Lindsey Brewer, Instructional Coach and past  preschool teacher Kathi Eichelberger, District Instructional Coach Staci Orr, AEA Preschool Consultant Becky Zeck, Director of Teaching and Learning Becky Wichers, and Early Childhood Coordinator/McKinley Principal Joelle McConnaha. 
    1. Feedback from the Early Childhood Task Force was shared.
  4. Robin Randall and Jeff Sandberg of Legat Architects presented information on the proposed projects including the Early Learning Center, McKinley Addition, and the MHS STEM/Science Project.
  5. Director of Finance Tom Anderson provided a spreadsheet of financial information taking into account these scenarios: 1) declining enrollment of 25 students per year, 2) 1% State Supplement Aid per year, and 3) the district does nothing (no Early Learning Center, keeping 6th grade at CMS) paying particular attention to UAB (Unspent Authorized Budget) and solvency ratio.
  6. Director of Finance Tom Anderson provided the projected cash flow spreadsheet for the PPEL/Sales Tax Fund showing the district's ability to cash flow the proposed projects.
  7. The consensus of the board was to bring the proposed projects as discussed to vote at its next meeting, November 12, 2018.
  8. The following upcoming meetings and events were announced:
    1. October 22-25, 2018 Parent-Teacher Conference Week
    2. October 25, 2018 2-Hour Early Dismissal
    3. October 26, 2018 No School - Conference Comp Day
    4. October 29, 2018 No School - Teacher Inservice
    5. November 12, 2018 Regular Session; 7 p.m.; City Hall
  9. The meeting adjourned at 8:09 p.m.

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, October 8, 2018 Regular Meeting

The Board of Education of the Muscatine Community School District met in regular session on Monday, October 8, 2018 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors John Dabeet, Aaron Finn, Nathan Mather, Toby McCarter, Randy Naber, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.


  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors were welcomed.
  3. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  4. Student Council gave an update.
  5. October's Outstanding MCSD Employees were recognized. They are: Tanise Colvin, Austin Kinsey, Debbie Stoube, Mackenzie Strouf, and Jacque Young.
  6. The consent agenda was approved:
    1. Minutes of the September 10, 2018 Regular and Organizational Meeting.
    2. Employment Recommendations:
      1. New Hires: Certified Staff: Brandi Storjohann, Title I, Jefferson.
      2. New Hires - Schedule C: Karri Seaman - MHS Volleyball Assistant; Steven Hopkins - MHS Head Softball; Kala Kwirant - MS Curriculum Leader Social Studies; Jacob Huebener - Mock Trial MHS (per sidebar agreement with MEA); Mike Fladlien - Mock Trial MHS (per sidebar agreement with MEA).
      3. Resignations - Schedule C: Mike Fladlien - Mock Trial MHS (resigned to split points with Jacob Huebener).
    3. Bills and Claims.
    4. District Committees: Audit Committee, Teacher Quality Committee, and School Improvement Advisory Committee.
    5. Student Teaching Agreement with Wm. Penn University.
    6. IASB Legislative Priorities.
    7. Early Retirement Incentive for FY 19.
    8. Approve administration authority to seek modified supplemental amounts from SBRC of $630,286 for 2017-18 LEP actual costs.
  7. Board Goals/Targets Report:
    1. Staci Orr presented data points on College and Career Readiness.
  8. Muscatine Schools Foundation 501c3 status was discussed.
  9. District Projects were discussed.
  10. June 30, 2018 CAR and Financials were reviewed.
  11. The following upcoming meetings/events were announced:
    1. October 9, 2018, Progress Report Breakfast, 7:30 a.m., MCSD Admin Center
    2. October 13, 2018, Dedication of Chuck Van Hecke Center, 2-4pm, MHS
    3. October 22, 2018, Board Planning Meeting; 6 p.m.; MCSD Admin Center
    4. October 22-25, 2018, Parent-Teacher Conference Week
    5. October 25, 2018, 2-hour Early Dismissal
    6. October 26, 2018, No School - Conference Comp Day
    7. October 29, 2018, No School - Teacher Inservice
To see supporting documents and the agenda for this meeting: October 8, 2018 Board Agenda
To watch the meeting: MCSD YouTube Channel

Tuesday, September 11, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, September 10, 2018 Regular Meeting

REGULAR SESSION - RETIRING BOARD

The Board of Education of the Muscatine Community School District met in regular session on Monday, September 10, 2018, at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors John Dabeet, Aaron Finn, Nathan Mather, Toby McCarter, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.
  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  4. Student council representatives updated the board on student council activities.
  5. The consent agenda was approved:
    1. Minutes of August 13, 2018, regular meeting.
    2. Bills and Claims against the district dated September 10, 2018, for FY 18 and FY 19.
  6. Randy Naber was appointed to fill the board seat vacated by Tim Bower.
  7. The retiring board adjourned at 7:09 p.m.
REGULAR SESSION - ANNUAL MEETING
  1. Tammi Drawbaugh was elected President of the Board.
  2. Mary Wildermuth was elected Vice-President of the Board.
  3. The following annual meeting transactions were approved:
    1. Appointed Lisa Mosier Bunn as Board Secretary.
    2. Appointed Tom Anderson as Board Treasurer.
    3. Designated First National Bank, CBI Bank and Trust, and Community Bank as official depositories.
    4. Appointed Stanley, Lande, and Hunter, Ahlers Law Firm, and Lynch Dallas P.C. as counsels.
    5. Designated the Muscatine Journal as the publication of record.
    6. Designated Bohnsack and Frommelt as auditor of record.
    7. Approved the Statement of the Board's Review and Support for Discipline Policies and Co-curricular, Extra-curricular Programs.
    8. Appointed district compliance officers.
  4. The board meeting schedule for September, 2018 through November, 2019 was shared.
  5. Appointed President Drawbaugh as the IASB Delegate.
  6. Appointed Director Dabeet to serve on the County Conference Board.
  7. Appointed Vice-President Wildermuth to serve on the Ag Learning Center Board.
  8. Board Goals/Targets:
    1. Early Childhood Programming, Returning 6th Grade to the Elementary Level, and a possible timeline of district projects were reviewed.
  9. Consent Agenda was approved:
    1. Employment Recommendations:
      1. New Hires - Certified staff: Tony Hollenbaugh - SPED, Grant; Kelsey Meier - 2nd Grade, Colorado; Janna Weiss - Spanish, MHS; John Windham - Success Center, MHS.
      2. New Hires - Schedule C: John Windham - Head Boys Basketball; Gabriel McDonald - Curriculum Coordinator - Math, MHS; Cara Shepherd - MS Curriculum Coordinator - SPED, CMS; Derek Schipper, MS Track, WMS; Alexandra Rauenbuehler - MS Volleyball, CMS; Brandon Welsch - MS Football, WMS; Jackson Foulk, MS Football k- WMS; Abigail Lange - Pom Pon, MHS; Matthew Shoultz - Assistant Football, MHS.
      3. Resignations - Schedule C: Jason Stoltzfus - Head Girls Softball; Alison Anson - AP Coordinator, MHS; Stephanie Barrios - Soccer, Assistant Girls.
    2. Student Teaching Agreement with Morningside College.
    3. Driver's Education Agreement with Mississippi Bend AEA.
  10. Legat Architects were approved for the MHS STEM/Science Project and possible other projects for 2018-19.
  11. Early Retirement Incentive for the 2018-19 school year was discussed.
  12. July Financials were reviewed.
  13. The following dates of upcoming meetings and events were announced:
    1. October 8, 2018: Regular Board Meeting; 7 p.m.; City Hall
    2. October 9, 2018: Progress Report Breakfast; 7:30 a.m.; Admin Center
    3. October 22, 2018: Board Planning Meeting; 6 p.m.; Admin Center
    4. October 22-25, 2018: Parent-Teacher Conferences
    5. October 25 2018: 2-Hour Early Dismissal
    6. October 26, 2018: No School - Conference Comp Day
    7. October 29, 2018: No School - Teacher Inservice
  14. Meeting adjourned at 8:22 p.m.


Tuesday, August 14, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, August 13, 2018 Regular Board Meeting

The Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, August 13, 2018 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors Tim Bower, John Dabeet, Aaron, Finn, Nathan Mather, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Director Toby McCarter was absent. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.
  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  4. Approved the resignation of Tim Bower as Board of Director with regrets. 
  5. As part of the Board Targets/Goals Report the following was presented:
    1. Director of Teaching and Learning Becky Wichers and special education teachers Tammy Ales, Sarah Greim, Shannon Kelsey, and Kelly Story provided information on the district’s special education program
    2. Jeff Miller, Facilities/Maintenance Supervisor provided a School Security Update
    3. Director of Human Resources Jill Bourquin and Human Resource Coordinator Anna Reyman provided information regarding the Raptor School Security System.
  6. The consent agenda was approved as follows:
    1. The minutes of the July 9, 2018 Regular Meeting.
    2. Employment Recommendations:
      1. New Hires: Emily Doxsie - 1st Grade, Colorado; Amanda Hotzel - Teacher Librarian, Jefferson & McKinley; Haley Meade - 6th Grade ELA/SS, WMS; Emily Meeker - SPED, WMS; Benjamin Moehlmann - Physics, MHS; Brianna Nannet - Kindergarten, Mulberry; Kayla Ohrt - 1st Grade, Jefferson; Jennifer Ostrem - ECSE, Madison; Scott Schoville - Art, CMS; Michael Simpson 8th Grade ELA, CMS; Joseph Vitali - Math, MHS.
      2. Resignations - Certified Staff: Shawn Buettner, Science, MHS; Mary Curry, 2nd Grade, Colorado; Miriam Garrett, Music, Franklin; Megan King, ELA, CMS.
      3. New Hires - Classified Professionals - Gwen Sheridan - Student Information Systems Administrator.
      4. Resignations - Classified Professionals: elena bobay, District Data Coordinator.
      5. New Hires - Schedule C: Derek Schipper, MS Football, WMS; Timothy Armstrong, Head Track (Girls), MHS; William Flowers, Assistant Track (Girls), MHS; Robert Long, MS Head Coach/Coordinator, WMS; Mary Nietzel, Assistant Girls Basketball, MHS; Alison Failor, Head Pom Pon, MHS; Amber Joyce, MS Volleyball, CMS; Julia Mosher, Curriculum Coordinator-SPED, WMS; Dakotah Sommer, Curriculum Coordinator-ELA, WMs; Dakotah Sommer, MS Volleyball, CMS.
      6. Resignations - Schedule C: Edwin Colón, Head Baseball Coach, MHS.
    3. Bills and Claims against the District.
    4. Student Teaching Agreement with ISU.
  7. Approved administrative regulations for Policy 401.9 Payroll Deductions. 
  8. Approved administrative regulations/exhibit for Policy 505.4 Student Medication Administration - Diabetic Self-Medication Consent. 
  9. Approved the Memorandum of Agreement for College Credit Courses for High School Students with Eastern Iowa Community College. 
  10. Awarded the Printer/Copier Managed Print Services RFP to Marco. 
  11. Approved the purchase of the Raptor School Security System. 
  12. Authorized the board secretary to publish a Notice of Intent to Appoint a Person to Fill Board Vacancy [applications (cover letter, resume) accepted up through August 31, 2018 at the Administration Center with a deadline at 4:30 p.m.] 
  13. The June financials were presented.
  14. The following dates of upcoming meetings and events were announced:
    1. August 14-16: New Teachers Report
    2. August 17: Teacher Quality Inservice Day
    3. August 20: Super Inservice for Staff - All Teachers Repor
    4. August 22: Back-to-School Night for Franklin, Grant, Jefferson, Madison, Mulberry, CMS, WMS, and MHS
    5. August 23: First Day of School for Grades 1-5, New Muskie Day for Grades 6 and 9; Staggered Start for PreK, Begindergarten, Kindergarten; No School for Grades 7, 8, 10-12
    6. August 24: All Grades, 1-12, Report to School; Staggered Start for PK, BGK, Kdg
    7. August 27: All PK, BGK, Kdg students attend
    8. August 31: Deadline to Apply for Board of Director Opening
  15. The meeting adjourned at 9:11 p.m.

Tuesday, July 10, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, July 9, 2018 Regular Board Meeting

The Board of Education of the Muscatine Community School District met in regular session on Monday, July 9, 2018 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors Tim Bower, John Dabeet, Aaron, Finn, Nathan Mather, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Director Toby McCarter was absent. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe, Assistant Superintendent Mike McGrory, and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.
  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  4. Board Targets/Goals:
    1. Information was presented regarding Muskie Visits. 
    2. Projected enrollment for the 2018-19 school year was shared. 
    3. An update on the furniture and branding project was provided.
  5. The consent agenda was approved including:
    1. Minutes of the June 11, 2018 Regular Session and the June 28, 2018 Special Session.
    2. Employment Recommendations of:
      1. New Hires - Certified Staff: Kayla Bentz, Grant 2nd Grade; Kathryn Langenberg, Madison 5th Grade; Sarah Lanning, MHS Math; Conice McIntyre, WMS Math; Audrey Phelan, Franklin Kindergarten; Derek Schipper, CMS Physical Education; Anthony Tometz, WMS Math/Science.
      2. TLC Instructional Coaches: Marsha McGill - McKinley; Rhonda Franklin - Jefferson; Teresa Randleman - Colorado.
      3. New Hires - Classified Professionals: Daniel Wright - CMS Security; Nicholas Swanson - WMS Security.
      4. New Hires - Schedule C: Timothy Armstrong - MHS Girls Head Track; William Flowers - MHS Track Assistant.
      5. Resignations - Schedule C: David Moeller - MS Swimming; Katherine Chambliss - MS Volleyball; Scott Mauck - MS Football, Head Coach/Coordinator.
    3. Bills and Claims against the district dated July 9, 2018.
    4. Muscatine Preschool Alliance Contracts with Head Start, Guardian Angel, A Child’s Place, Happy Time, and Wonder Years.
  6. Stanley Consultants presented their findings for the MHS Science Project
  7. Approved the release for a Request for Proposal for Architectural Services for the MHS Science Project. 
  8. A Food Service Update on School Meals Administrative Review, Participation Recap, New School Meal Debt Legislation, and Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) was presented.
  9. Approved the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) for Franklin, Jefferson, Madison and McKinley Elementary Buildings. All ayes; motion carried.
  10. The May financials were presented.
  11. The following announcements of upcoming meetings and events were provided:
    1. July 16, 2018 - Online Registration is scheduled to open for Kindergarten through 12th grade.
    2. August 13, 2018 - Regular Board Meeting; 7 PM; City Hal
  12. The meeting adjourned at 8:58 p.m.

See the Board Agenda with Supporting Documents
Watch the July 9, 2018 Board Meeting via YouTube

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, June 11, 2018 Regular Board Meeting

The Muscatine Schools Board of Directors met in regular session on Monday, June 11, 2018 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. Vice President Mary Wildermuth called the meeting to order. Directors Tim Bower, Nathan Mather and Toby McCarter were present. President Tammi Drawbaugh and Directors John Dabeet and Aaron Finn were absent. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.
  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  4. The consent agenda as follows:
    1. The minutes of the May 14, Regular Session and the June 8, 2018 Special Session.
    2. Employment Recommendations:
      1. New Hires - Certified Staff: Shawn Buettner, MHS Science; Catherine Froelich, Franklin 1st Grade; Marina Gomez, MHS Spanish; Carol Hightower, Jefferson SPED Strat II; Melissa Maloney, Jefferson SPED Strat II; Zachary Meseke, CMS English/Language Arts; Jill Owens, Franklin 4 year old PK; Rachel Phillipps, Colorado Guidance; Breanna Proehl, WMS English/Language Arts; Breana Riley, WMS English/Language Arts; Angela Sage, MHS Math; David Stern, McKinley SPED Strat II; Adrienne Varble, Jefferson Music.
      2. Resignations -  Certified Staff: Catherine Arceo, Franklin Kindergarten; Erin Canahui, MHS Spanish; Steven Chidester, CMS Phys Ed; Andrew Dobek, WMS Math; Abby Goodale, MHS Business Ed; Eric Josupait, MHS Math; Jacqueline Kilburn, Colorado Instructional Coach; Robert Klingborn, MHS Industrial Arts; Amy Matteson, WMS English/Language Arts; Kelsey Mohapp, MHS Science; Linda Steele, Mulberry Instructional Coach.
      3. Resignations - Schedule C: Catherine Arceo, MHS Assistant Pom; William Flowers, CMS Basketball and MHS Assistant Girls Track; Andrew Dobek, WMS Track and Basketball; Timothy Armstrong, MHS Girls Track; Rene Mauck, Middle School Stage and Drama; Eric Josupait, MHS Assistant Football.
    3. Bills and Claims against the district dated June 11, 2018.
    4. Student Teaching Agreement with Buena Vista University.
  5. Approved the contract with Performance Health and Fitness LLC for Registered Dietitian Services.
  6. Approved the Wrap Around Pilot Project with a private provider.
  7. Approved the recommended the following food service vendor contracts:
    1. Anderson Erickson - Milk Contract for 2018-19.
    2. Little Caesar’s Pizza - Pizza Contract for 2018-19.
    3. Bimbo Bakery Contract Extension for 2018-19.
    4. Aramark Contract Extension for Laundry Services for 2018-19.
  8. The April financials were reviewed.
  9. Upcoming meetings and events were announced:
    1. July 9, 2018, Regular Board Meeting; 7 p.m.; City Hall
  10. The meeting adjourned at 7:16 p.m.

Friday, May 25, 2018

This Week in Our Schools: May 21-25, 2018

Select the image below to see our students and staff in action This Week in Our Schools!

Featured this week:


  • District-Wide Students
  • Colorado Elementary: Field Day.
  • Franklin Elementary: Special Visitors.
  • Franklin Elementary: Mrs. Hepker's Class.
  • Grant Elementary: 4th Grade MPW Poster Contest Winners.
  • Jefferson Elementary: Jefferson's Special Visitors.
  • Madison Elementary: Kindergarten Gum Ball Goals.
  • Madison Elementary: Step Up Day.
  • Madison Elementary: Quidditch!
  • Madison Elementary: 4th and 5th Grade Harry Potter Lunch Clubs.
  • Madison Elementary: MCC - Madison Quidditch Teams.
  • Madison Elementary: Mrs. Godden-Alloway's Kindergarten Students.
  • Madison Elementary: 4th Grade Classes.
  • McKinley Elementary: School-wide Reading Challenge.
  • McKinley Elementary: 5th Grade Rocket Launch.
  • McKinley Elementary: 4th Grade MPW Poster contest Winners.
  • McKinley Elementary: 5th Grade Graduation!
  • Mulberry Elementary: Mrs. Voegler's and Mrs. Mergen's 1st Grade Classes.
  • Mulberry Elementary: Ms. Blaesing's and Mrs. Lowe's 4th Grade Classes.
  • Mulberry Elementary: PBIS Spring Picnic.
  • Central Middle School: Gifted/Talented Passion Projects.
  • Central Middle School: Ms. Acker's 7th Grade EL Students.
  • West Middle School: Mr. LeClere's Step Up Day Activity.
  • Muscatine High School: Mr. Day's Horticulture II Class.
  • Muscatine High School: Hutton/Galoso - First to Finish MHS Scholars Program!
  • Muscatine High School: Mr. Schmelzer's Work Experience Students.

Monday, May 21, 2018

This Week in Our Schools: May 14 - 18, 2018

Select the image below to see our students and staff in action This Week in Our Schools!

Featured this week:


  • Parents as Teachers
  • Colorado Elementary: Mrs. Hines' Kindergarten Class.
  • Colorado Elementary: Mrs. Yahn's 3rd Grade Class.
  • Franklin Elementary: Mrs. Wright and Mrs. Wolf's 1st Grade Classes.
  • Franklin Elementary: Mrs. Wolf's 1st Grade Class.
  • Franklin Elementary: Mrs. Henderson's 3rd Grade Class.
  • Franklin Elementary: 4th Grade End of Year Field Trip.
  • Franklin Elementary: MPW Poster Contest Winners!
  • Franklin Elementary: Mrs. Calderon's 1st Grade Class.
  • Grant Elementary: Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast.
  • Grant Elementary: Lip Sync Battle.
  • Jefferson Elementary: Musser Library Visit.
  • Jefferson Elementary: Mrs. Story's Deaf and Hard of Hearing Class.
  • Madison Elementary: PBIS Celebration!
  • Madison Elementary: Mr. Stewart's 3rd Grade Class.
  • Madison Elementary: Mrs. McGill's 3rd Grade Class.
  • Madison Elementary: Ms. Connor's 5th Grade Class.
  • McKinley Elementary: Mrs. Spratt's Kindergarten Class.
  • McKinley Elementary: Mrs. Stych's 2nd Grade Class.
  • McKinley Elementary: Ms. Pedersen's 2nd Grade Class.
  • McKinley Elementary: Family Night!
  • McKinley Elementary: FAST Superheroes!
  • Mulberry Elementary: Mrs. Green's Kindergarten Class.
  • Central Middle School: 6th Grade Superheroes!
  • Central Middle School: Ms. Pautz's Science Class.
  • Central Middle School: 7th and 8th Grade Pre-AP ELA Classes.
  • Central Middle School: GT Central Community Connection.
  • West Middle School: 6th Grade Gold House.
  • West Middle School: Ricochet II.
  • West Middle School: Mrs. Lopez's Geometry Students.
  • Muscatine High School: AP Testing.
  • Muscatine High School: MHS A cappella Choir.
  • Muscatine High School: MHS Treble Choir.
  • District-Wide Staff

Friday, May 18, 2018

Board Briefs for Monday, May 14, 2018

The Board of Education of the Muscatine Community School District met in regular session on Monday, May 14, 2018 at 7 p.m. at City Hall. President Tammi Drawbaugh called the meeting to order. Directors Tim Bower, John Dabeet, Nathan Mather, Toby McCarter, and Mary Wildermuth were present. Director Aaron Finn was absent. Also present were Superintendent Jerry Riibe and Director of Finance Tom Anderson.
  1. The board recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  2. Visitors and media representatives were welcomed.
  3. Student Council Representatives Samara Perkins and Kendra Eller provided an update.
  4. MHS Earth Science students presented their Human Impact Study on the MHS Pond.
  5. Muscatine Community School District’s May Outstanding Employees were recognized. They are: Monica Chavez, Jeff Othmer, Jamie Pugh, Mike Sterner, and Dorene Wagler.
  6. The school board members were recognized for their dedication to the students of Muscatine Schools as part of IASB’s School Board Recognition Month.
  7. No one spoke during Citizens Speak.
  8.  Board Targets/Goals Report: Dan Stein presented information on the CountFast math pilot program that was introduced to the district’s fifth grade students this year.
  9. The consent agenda was approved and included the following:
    1. The minutes of the April 9, 2018 Regular Session and the April 23, 2018 Work Session
      1. Employment Recommendations of:
        1. New Hires - Certified Administrators: Julie Stoneking, Principal Franklin Elementary; Leslie Bennett, Assistant Principal McKinley Elementary; Candace Steel, Principal Jefferson Elementary.
        2. Resignations - Certified Administrators: Jared Smith, MHS Principal.
        3. Resignations - Classified Professionals: Brian Brock, District Student Accounting Manager.
        4. New Hires - Certified Staff: Sara Baker, 9th Grade Science; Maureen Beran, MHS Guidance Counselor; Alison Failor, Jefferson 4th Grade; Matthew Hennes, MHS Science; Jacob Huebener, MHS Science; Shannon Iskowitz, McKinley 5th Grade; McKenna Lybbert, Franklin 5th Grade; Mary Nietzel, Jefferson 4th Grade; Taryn Niehaus, Franklin/McKinley TAG; Catherine Sarrazin, Mulberry Guidance; Warren Snook, MHS Math; Dawn Thompson, Grant 1st Grade; Emily Wolf, Franklin 1st Grade.
        5. Resignations -  Certified Staff: Trista Bryant, Jefferson 4th Grade; Laura Christensen, MHS Math; Micaela Haight, CMS At Risk; Matthew Havemann, CMS SPED; Elizabeth Hirschfield, MHS Math; Amy Justus, WMS Instructional Coach; Faye Lindsey, Jefferson Vocal Music; Jonie Lopez, WMS Math; Margaret Milani, MHS Guidance; Grant Stewart, Madison 3rd Grade; Kerri Tharp, WMS Instructional Coach; Denise Thorson, Jefferson SPED; Meredith Truitt, McKinley SPED; Allison Wolfgram, Mulberry SPED.
        6. TLC - Instructional Coach Resignations: Julie Stoneking, Middle School CPDL; Leslie Bennett, McKinley; Stacy Emrich, Colorado; Lindsay Welsch, Madison.
        7. New Hires - Schedule C: Nicholas Swanson, MHS Assistant Baseball; Randy Rosa, MHS Assistant Baseball; Konnie Hurlbut, MHS Assistant Softball.
        8. Resignations - Schedule C: Sarah Martin Allen, MHS Head Pom; Matthew Havemann, CMS Team Leader SPED; Kailyn Kaiser Stumpf, CMS Volleyball; William Flowers, CMS Track; Dakotah Sommer, WMS Volleyball; Kaylea Rusch, MHS Softball; Chris Lary, WMS Football; Joe Bartling, WMS Football; Heather Clark, WMS Curriculum Coordinator SPED; Margaret Milani, CMS Volleyball; Alan McDonald, MHS Assistant Basketball; Tristan Tolle, WMS Stage and Drama; Rebecca Zahradnik, MHS Assistant Girls Basketball; Gary Belger, MHS Head Boys Basketball; Micaela Haight, MHS Assistant Volleyball and Assistant Girls Track; Lynette Larson, WMS ELA Curriculum Coordinator; Elizabeth Hirschfield, MHS Math Curriculum Coordinator; Matthew Rivera, WMS Social Studies Curriculum Coordinator.
      2. Bills and Claims against the district dated May 14, 2018.
      3. Student Teaching Agreements with Western Illinois University and St. Ambrose University.
    2. Board policy 401.5 Family and Medical Leave was approved.
    3. The tentative list of graduates for the Class of 2018 was approved.
    4. The recommended salary adjustment for administrators and non-union classified professionals to follow Chapter 20 guidelines as of May 1, 2018 (1.75%) was approved.
    5. The Collective Bargaining Agreements between Muscatine Community School District and Local 1560, Council of AFSCME for the Secretarial, Clerical, Aide, and Paraeducator Unit, Bus Driver Unit, Food Service Unit, and Custodial/Maintenance Unit was approved.
    6. Approved the following budgeted PPEL expenditures:
      1. the purchase of musical instruments and furniture not to exceed $918,247 in a one year time period.
      2. the purchase of MHS Physical Education Facility Equipment up to $400,000.
      3. the purchase computer replacements up to $500,000. 
      4. the purchase of the following transportation vehicles: a) Activity Van (1) - $28,564; b) Micro Bus (1) - $58,101; and c) Propane Buses (8) - $759,376 with 8 trade-ins.
    7. Melissa Tiedemann with Stanley Consultants updated the board on the MHS Science/STEM Feasibility Study.
    8. Superintendent Riibe discussed long-range planning for facilities as it pertains to declining enrollment.
    9. Director of Finance Tom Anderson presented the March financials.
    10. The following announcements of upcoming meetings and events were announced:
      1. May 23: Seniors Last Day
      2. May 27: Class of 2018 Graduates
      3. May 28: Memorial Day
      4. May 30: Student’s Last Day; 2-Hour Early Dismissal
      5. May 31: Retirement and 30 Year Employee Celebration
      6. June 11: Regular Board Meeting; 7 p.m.; City Hall
    11. The meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m. 

Board Agenda with Supporting Documents
Board Meeting via YouTube

Monday, May 14, 2018

This Week in Our Schools: May 7 - 11, 2018

Select the image below to see our students and staff in action This Week in Our Schools!

Featured this week:

  • Race for the Schools
  • District-Wide Students
  • Colorado Elementary: Race for the Schools!
  • Colorado Elementary: Mrs. Hines' Kindergarten Class.
  • Franklin Elementary: Mrs. Hepker's Class.
  • Franklin Elementary: Ms. Week's 5th Grade Class.
  • Jefferson Elementary: Mrs. Manjoine's 5th Grade Class.
  • Grant Elementary: Miss Dindinger's Begindergarten Class.
  • Grant Elementary: Mrs. Dusenberry's 1st Grade Class.
  • Grant Elementary: Mrs. Foxen's 2nd Grade Art Classes.
  • Grant Elementary: Mrs. Doane's 4th Grade Class.
  • Grant Elementary: Mrs. Paul's 4th Grade Class.
  • Grant Elementary: 4th Grade River Bandits Game.
  • Madison Elementary: Family Reading Night.
  • Madison Elementary: Red Nose Day.
  • Madison Elementary: 4th Grade Field Trip.
  • McKinley Elementary: Mrs. Penzkoffer's 1st Grade Students.
  • McKinley Elementary: Ms. Pedersen's 2nd Grade Class.
  • McKinley Elementary: Winnie The Therapy Dog.
  • Mulberry Elementary: Mrs. Lowe's, Miss Wolfgram's and Mrs. Gabriel's Students.
  • Mulberry Elementary: 5th Grade Field Trip.
  • Central Middle School: Mock Trial.
  • Central Middle School: Mr. Edkin's 8th Grade STEM Class.
  • Central Middle School: Mrs. Moeller's Pre-Ap Math Class.
  • Central Middle School: Flash Mob.
  • West Middle School: Ricochet.
  • West Middle School: Mrs. Matteson's 6th Grade ELA Classes.
  • West Middle School: Mrs. Matteson's 6th Grade Pre-AP ELA Classes.
  • West Middle School: Ms. Wiebe's 6th Grade Ag Classes.
  • West Middle School: Mr. Yerington's 6th Grade Science Class.
  • West Middle School: 7th Grade Student Recognition.
  • West Middle School: 7th Grade Choir.
  • West Middle School: Mrs. Schroeder's 8th Grade STEM Class.
  • West Middle School: Ms. Wiebe's 8th Grade Ag Class.
  • Muscatine High School: MHS FFA and Ag Classes.
  • Muscatine High School: Mrs. Hirschfield and Mr. Zabransky's Geometry Classes.
  • Muscatine High School: MHS Choir Students.
  • Muscatine High School: Ms. Ruesch's Essential Biology Classes.
  • District-Wide Staff