From the Board Table
Some thoughts for the starting school year
Welcome to From the Board Table
In this monthly newsletter, Dr. Havenstrite will share highlights from the PCM Board of Director meetings. These may including important district decisions, news, and initiatives. For complete meeting minutes or more more detailed information about the PCM School Board, please visit our board webpage.
Highlights: April 22, 2024
Leader in Me Presentation
The PCE Leader in Me students provided the Board with an overview of the program. Students shared about the Habits, jobs, and skills they are learning in the program. The Leader in Me program has been implemented in each elementary building and is beginning to be implemented in the Middle School.
Certified Budget Adopted
The Board adopted the proposed tax rate of $14.61. This is the fourth consecutive year that the Board has adopted a tax rate with a slight decrease. The presentation can be viewed here.
Elementary Grade Alignment
After gathering feedback from parents, community and staff, the PCM Board voted to move towards all grade alignment for the Fall 2024. Grades PreK-2 will be housed in Monroe Elementary and grades 3-5 will be housed in Prairie City Elementary. The Board also approved an elementary principal for each building. Click here for a letter from the PCM Board regarding the decision. The PCM administration will begin to organize and plan for the transition that will occur over the summer.
Highlights: March 18, 2024
Work Sessions Scheduled
Two work sessions have been scheduled for Monday, Mar. 25th and Monday, April 1st. On Monday, March 25th the Board will review the Facility work and recommendations of the Facility Master Planning User Groups. These groups were facilitated by Patrick Davis, Denovo, and Mark Moine, Martin Gardner Architects. This work session will begin at 5 pm in the Monroe Elementary Library. On Monday, April 1st, the Board will receive a presentation from Matt Gillaspie, Piper Sandler. He will be sharing information on the current debt and bonds held by the district and funding capacity for a major capitol improvement project. This meeting will begin at 5:30 PM in the High School Learning Center. (Note Location)
The public is encouraged to attend. The board does not receive public comment during work sessions.
Mar. 25th -- 5-6 pm Facility Planning Presentation ME Library
April 1st -- 5:30-6:30 PM PCM Debt/Bonding Presentation HS Learning Center
Resignation of Elementary Principal
The Board approved the resignation of Mrs. Donita Geetings. Mrs. Geetings has served as the Elementary Principal for the past three years. Her instructional leadership has led to improved math and literacy practices in our Elementary Schools. Additionally, Mrs. Geetings has led the way for the adoption and implementation of the Leader in Me Program. The Board thanked Mrs. Geetings for her service.
Career Pathways Adopted
The PCM Board adopted the following career pathways to be implemented at the PCM High School beginning in the 24-25 school year: Metal Fabrication, Business Administration, Health Occupations, Construction Trades.
Mar. 25th -- Public Hearings
Two Public Hearings will be held Monday, Mar. 25th. At 6:00 PM the hearing will be held on the proposed 24-25 PCM School District Budget. All PCM property owners should have received a notice in the mail from the Jasper Co. Assessors Office last week. The budget was also published in the PCM Explorer. After this conclusion of this hearing, the Board will hold a hearing on the proposed 24-25 School Calendar. This draft calendar is included below. Both public hearings will be held in Monroe Elementary in the Library.
Highlights: February 19, 2024
Elementary Grade Alignment FEEDBACK Request
The PCM Board tabled the approval of moving 3rd grade classrooms to Prairie City Elementary. The Board is considering moving all K-2 to Monroe Elementary and 3-5 to Prairie City Elementary. This move would be done over the summer months so that all grades would be aligned by the start of the 24-25 school year. The Board would like to provide an opportunity for parents and community members to give input to the Board regarding the overall vision of grade alignment. Deadline is Friday, Mar. 1. Please read the attached letter from the Board.
Baseball Field Lights Approved
The Board approved the installation of new lights at the baseball field. To date, improvements include upgrading the field, new scoreboard, and new dugouts. Additional improvements would be new bleachers, improved restrooms and concession stand, and concrete to ensure handicap accessibility.
Open Campus for the 24-25 School Year
Beginning in the 24-25 school year, the PCM High School will be implementing Open Campus Lunch (Fall Trial ONLY) and Open Campus for Juniors and Seniors. Specific criteria for each have been established and will be shared with parents and families. The Open Campus guidelines will also be included in the 24-25 Handbook.
Budget Hearing Date Set
The first of two budget hearings have been set. The first budget hearing has been set for Monday, March 25th at 6 PM in the Monroe Elementary Library.
Notification of Board Meetings
Official notification of PCM Board meetings will be on the district website (link include below), posted on the door of the Monroe Elementary Building, window of the District Office in Monroe Elementary, and on Bound, the district activities calendar. This will be done at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting. The easiest way to stay up to date is to download the PCM app on your phone. You can elect to receive notifications. Social media accounts will not be used to publish board meetings, work sessions, or committee meetings. The public is always welcome to attend board meetings, work sessions, and committee meetings. However, public comment is only received at Board Meetings.
Highlights: January 22nd, 2024
Public Hearing -- 24-25 School Calendar -- February 19, 2024 at 6 PM
The Board set the date for a Public Hearing to receive public comments on the proposed 24-25 calendar. Calendar options and feedback will be distributed and feedback will be gathered from parents, students, and staff prior to a recommendation being made to the Board.
Baseball Field Renovations Continue
The Board unanimously approved up to $40,000 to be used to install new dugouts. Kaden Wahlert, student at PCM, completed the design and blueprints for the dugouts. Mustang Construction class will be assisting with the construction and local contractors have generously agreed to complete work well under market value.
School Safety Update
In response to the Perry shooting, Superintendent Havenstrite provided the board with a safety update. Information has been updated the Safety and Security webpage on the district website. The PCM School District continues to keep the Perry School District in their thoughts during this time of healing.
Snow Make Up Days
The following days have been designated as Snow Make Up:
April 15, May 28 May 29, May 30, and May 31. The last day of school will officially be May 31st.
Highlights: December 18th, 2023
The PCM Board and Administration would like to wish all stakeholders a safe and relaxing Holiday Season. Reminder, District offices will be closed from Saturday, Dec. 23rd until Tuesday, January 2nd.
Ball Field Renovations Continue
The PCM Board approved a request from the Booster Club and Activities Director to replace the scoreboards at both softball and baseball field. The PCM Booster Club pledge $20,000 to help offset the cost of the new scoreboards. Advertisements will be sold to cover the remaining cost. The ask of the school board was pay for the scoreboards in advance so they could be ordered with the understanding that the School District will be reimbursed in full for the cost of the scoreboards. This motion was approved unanimously.
MS Roofing Project Approved
The PCM Board approved a bid from Right Roofing & Siding to complete Phase I ($177, 847.00) and Phase II ($203,606.00) of the Middle Roof replacement. This project is scheduled to be completed over the Summer.
New Bus Purchase Approved
The PCM Board unanimously approved the purchase of a new school bus from the Hogland Bus Company for $147,000. This bus will not be received and put into the route rotation until May, 2024..
Highlights: November 27th, 2023
PCM Board welcomes two new Board members
The results of the Board election were accepted by the PCM Board. Jeremy St. Peter joins the Board as District 5 representative and Kelsey Fiorentine was elected to represent District 3. Rod Dehaai, Greg Ingle, and Steve Nearmyer were re-elected to the Board.
Board Meeting Location and Committees
The PCM Board voted to change the location of the Board Meeting to the Monroe Library in Monroe Elementary. Regular Board Meetings will continue to be held on the 3rd Monday of the month at 6 PM. The Board also reinstated the following Board Committee: Finance, Facilities, and Policy. Committee meetings are open to public observation. All dates, locations and notes will be published on SIMBLI and can be accessed from the district webpage.
Classroom Clinic Approved
The PCM Board approved a two year contract with an online counseling service--Classroom Clinic. This service will begin 2nd semester. The contract will allow up to 50 students/families to enroll in mental health counseling. More information about Classroom Clinic can be found here. When the program is set up, information will be sent to all parents of students in the district.
Highlights: October 16, 2023
Tanya Swan Hired as PCM's New School Business Manager
PCM CSD is excited to welcome Tanya Swan to the District Leadership Team as the School Business Manager. Tanya will join the team on Nov. 6th. She brings with her over 25 years of business experience.
Faith Defenbaugh--Student Representative to the PCM School Board
Welcome Faith to the PCM School Board! Faith was selected to serve as a Student Representative to the School Board. While this is a non-voting position it provides student's voice in the decision making process of the school board. Congratulations Faith and welcome!
FY 2023 Annual Treasure Report
The FY 2023 Annual Treasurer Report was presented to the Board. This report was prepared by Interim SBO, Brandi Crawford. The Annual Treasurer's report includes all ending balances for FY 2023 for each account. This report can be found here.
Middle School Roofing Project Moving Ahead
The PCM Board approved to move forward with the bidding process for roof replacement for the Middle School. The current roof has been divided into three different segments, all of which are needing replaced. Given the district's sound financial position, the Board has decided to move forward bidding out sections A (base bid) and C (Alternate) at this time. Section B contains the HVAC system and this too needs replacement. Martin Gardner Architects will be taking the lead on the competitive bidding process. The Board and administration hope to begin the roofing repairs in the Summer of 2024.
Highlights: Work Session -- October 9, 2023
Disposal of Equipment
Members of the PCM Board in attendance opened sealed bids. Information about winning bidder for each item is included below:
2003 Bus - David Brannen $1200.00
2001 Pick Up - Colt Kiengry $805.00
Red Trailer - Erik VanderKamp $1150.00
Black Trailer - Logan Lafler $60.00
Highlights: September 18, 2023
22-23 Annual District Report
Dr. Havenstrite presented a draft of the 22-23 Annual Report. This report highlights information about our school district over the past school year. The Annual Report will be finalized in October after the official student count date. It will then be available to all constituents in the district. Thank you to Cathy DeHaai for sharing her talents to help put this together!
22-23 Academic Assessment Report
Dr. Havenstrite presented the 22-23 Academic Assessment Report. This report presents all assessment data that is collected by the district. It provides a very comprehensive overview of student achievement in our district. This report will be used by school leaders to set goals and areas of improvement. This report was put together by the PCM District Assessment & Curriculum Instructional Coach, Collin Harrison.
Disposal of Equipment--Vehicle/Trailer Sale
The Board approved the disposal of the following equipment through a sealed bidding process:
- 2003 Thomas Bus
- 2001 Dodge Ram Pick Up Truck
- 1992 Red Trailer
- Black Trailer
Information about the bidding process can be found here and will be advertised to the community on social media, through the newspaper, and email. Inquiries can also be made to the Board Secretary, Becki Vasseau at bvasseau@pcmschools.org.
Work Session Highlight: Sept. 11, 2023
Discussion on the Purchase of Property
After meeting in closed session to discuss the property for sale at 704 S. Monroe St., Monroe, IA--Parcel 1831154003, the PCM Board voted 4-3 to not move forward with an offer to purchase the property.
Highlights: August 21, 2023
Baseball Field Improvement Project
The Board approved (6-1 vote) $165,000 to begin making much-needed improvements to the PCM Baseball field. These improvements will include resurfacing both the infield and outfield and installation of an irrigation system. These improvements are scheduled to begin this fall so that the field will be ready for '24 Baseball season. The administration is continuing to gather bids for additional improvements to the PCM ball fields, such as new lights, dugouts, concrete walkways to improve accessibility, bleacher and seating areas, etc. In the future, these will be presented to the Board for consideration.
School Business Official Sharing Agreement with Urbandale
The Board approved (7-0 vote) a 28e agreement with Urbandale School District to share a school business official. Brandi Crawford will be working with the district and business office and brings a wealth of experience to the business office.
Livestreaming Access Rates
The district will begin to use HUDL to livestream school events. The board approved (7-0 vote) to charge viewers the following access fees:
- Single Game: $10.00
- Monthly Subscription: $50.00
- Yearly Subscription: $150.00
Public Participation at Board Meetings
School Board meetings are considered meetings for the Board to conduct business of the school district. However, the Board welcomes public comment. The Board approved (7-0 vote) to move the agenda item--Constituents Correspondence--to the beginning of the meeting. Board Policy 213 was also updated to clarify guidelines for public comment.
Highlights: July 17, 2023
Family Week Statement
The PCM Board approved the following statement in support of Family Week:
The Unified Activity Federation (Iowa High School Athletic Association, Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union, Iowa High School Music Association, and Iowa High School Speech Association) Non-Contact Period for the summer of 2023 will be Sunday, July 23, 2023, through Sunday, July 30, 2023. This is the third year of an annual break in activities across Iowa each summer. Looking ahead, future years Non-Contact Period will fall between the following dates: July 28 - August 4, 2024, and July 27 - August 3, 2025.
During this time, there will be no Activities in the PCM Community School District, including camps, clinics, workouts, strength and conditioning, lessons, meetings, etc.
FY22 Audit Report
The PCM School Board accepted the FY 2022 Audit Report. There were no significant findings of deficits and minimal corrections to accounting were needed.
Substitute Rates
The PCM School Board approved the following substitute pay rates:
- Teacher or Nurse Sub - $20/hour (max $160/day)
- Long-term Teacher Sub - $185.52 (this is the base teacher daily rate without TSS)
- All hourly support staff - $13.15/hour (this includes custodians, associates, secretaries, and nutrition staff.)
- Bus Driver Subs will be paid the same rate as our regular drivers as they are hard to find and require full CDP licensure.
School Board Elections - Nov. 7, 2023
Information was shared about the upcoming school board elections on Nov. 7th.
There will be five director postions open for election:
District Two, 2-yr term
District Three, 4-yr term
District Five, 4-yr term
District Four, 4-yr term
District Seven, 4-yr term
A map of Director Districts can be found here. Interested candidates should visit the IASB website for information and guidance. The district website will also provide election information and resources. This will be available by August 1st. Filing begins on Aug. 28th, 2023.
School Registration is OPEN!
The PCM administration would like to remind all parents to complete school registration as soon as possible. We would like to finalize class lists and bus routes. Students will not be allowed to begin Fall practices for any PCM Activity if registration is not completed. Parents can register their students by logging into the Infinite Campus account.
Highlights: May 15, 2023
Iowa School Board Appreciation Month
The Iowa School Board Association has declared May as School Appreciation Month! Thank you to all PCM Board Members (Greg Ingle, Scott Grass, Rod DeHaai, Leslie Duinink, Steve Nearmyer, Lori Jungling, Ryan VanderKamp) for all that you do!
ISASP/FASTBridge Student Learning Data Presented
Last evening, Mr. Collin Harrison shared an overview of the most recent student learning data. This data is used to examine the core learning. This data can be found here. Mrs. Geetings also provided a reflection of the 4th/5th grade grade alignment. This presentation included highlights, lowlights, and ideas for the future. The presentation can be found here.
Approved Facility Improvement Contract with Denovo Construction Solutions/Martin Gardner Architects
The board approved a contract to begin working on design and construction solutions for facility improvements. The Facility Advisory Committee has been working with Denovo and Martin Gardner to update the 2015 Facility Assessment. Information about this work can be found here.
School Fees Approved
The Board approved school fees for the 23-24 upon recommendation from the Superintendent. It was recommended that no changes be made to the current school fees and activity pass fees for the upcoming school year. A slight increase was made to the adult meal fee, but all other student meal fees will remain the same for the upcoming school year. The district will begin collecting fees after July 1, 2023.
Highlights: April 17, 2023
23-24 Certified Budget Approved
The Board approved recommended tax rate for the 23-24 fiscal year at 14.62%. Robert Friday and Dr. Havenstrite recommended a lower rate from previous year as at this time funds are not needed. During the VPPEL campaign, the Board provided assurances to our tax payers that the approval of the increase would not increase the overall tax rate. The approval of the tax rate of 14.62 actually is a lower than the previous rate of 14.66%. Click here to view the approved budget.
Pre-fund Levy Resolution Approved
For the 2nd year in a row, Dr. Havenstrite has recommended the Board approve pre-funding the levy that currently exists. This pre-fund levy will help pay down the balance of the current bond, thus saving the district over $200,000 in interest payments.
Facility Improvement RFQP Approved
The Board approved a recommendation to move forward with the Phase II--Design and Prioritization for our Facility plan. Rusty Vos, Director of Operations, will be leading this process to secure bids from construction management and architectural firms to facility this process.
Highlights: March 20, 2023
Assistant Elementary Principal/Early Childhood Coordinator
The PCM Board approved an administrative contract for Mandy Shannon to serve as the PCM Elementary Assistance Principal/Early Childhood Coordinator. Mandy brings tremendous experience working with at-risk students and expertise in the area of early childhood. We are excited to welcome Mrs. Shannon to our team.
Approved Master Contract Agreement with PCMEA
The Board approved the agreement reached during negotiations with the PCMEA. The tentative agreement can be found here.
Highlights: February 20, 2023
Board Approval for Sam Brown, Middle School Principal
The PCM School Board approved an administrative contract for Sam Brown to lead the Middle School. Welcome Mr. Brown.
Early Childhood Update
Preschool Registration is open for the 23-24 school year. PCM is proud to offer both a 1/2 day option and a full day option.
Registration for the 23/24 School Year Open
The PCM School District is beginning registration for the 23-24 school year in February. Parents/guardians can register their students. Fees will not be collected until after July 1st. This early registration will allow for better planning for class sizes and courses. The Board will set 23-24 school fees in May.
Elementary Leadership Structure
In order to have adequate administrative support, the Board approved the hiring of an assistance elementary principal/early childhood education coordinator for the 23-24 school year.
Safety Grant
The PCM District, under the leadership of Rusty Vos, Operations Director, requested the Board approve the initial Governor's Safety Grant submission. After a review of the Vulnerability Assessments, bids were gathered for safety improvement projects in each building the Board approved over $400,000 in safety improvements (most of this expense will be reimbursed by the Governor's program.)
Highlights: January 16, 2023
Sen. Ken Rozenboom Attends Board Meeting
Senator Ken Rozenboom attended our Board meeting and shared with Board and community members his position that is in full support of Governor Reynold's School Choice (voucher) program. Board members, administration, and community members were given an opportunity to ask questions about the impact of this Bill on the PCM School District. A full recording of this conversation can be found in the link below.
Unanimous approval to call for an election to amend and approve the PPEL
The Board discussed the need and urgency to amend and approve the voter approved physical plant and equipment levy. They unanimously approved a call for an election to be held on March 7th. This election will request approval to amend the current VPPEL and to renew the VPPEL for a ten year term commencing on FY27. Funding generated from the VPPEL can only be used for transportation needs, technology, and improvements and maintenance to our facilities. The most urgent need facing the board is to expand bus routes and a bus must be purchased to do this. The Board will reduce the management levy to ensure that that over tax levy of 14.66 will not be increased as a result of this amendment. More information will be forth coming to help our constituents understand the need for approval of both the amendment and renewal of the voter approved physical plant and equipment levy.
23-24 Academic Calendar Approved
The PCM School Board approved the Academic Calendar for the 23-24 school year. The approved calendar can be found on the PCM website.
Digital, interactive Wall of Pride technology approved
The Board approved a 65" tv and contract with ....to install an interactive Wall of Pride at the High School. (This interactive digital boards can be seen at many areas schools.) This interactive board will house class composites and photos of the accomplishments of our district.
Highlights: December 19, 2022
Overview
RJ Circle Keepers lead the Board in RJ Circle
The PCM High School Restorative Justice Circle Keepers shared information about the implementation of Restorative Justice at the high school and they led the board in a Welcome Circle. Below you will find a short video and document with information on the Restorative Justice initiative at PCM High School. For more information, please contact Kristen Souza, HS Building Principal at ksouza@pcmschools.org
New Director Districts Approved
The PCM Board approved the new Director Districts with a 7-0 vote after a conducting a public hearing. No comments were received on the proposed districts. The Board will continue to be a 7 member board. The new districts will take effect on July 1st.
Open Enrollment Denial Decision for the Remainder of the 22-23 School Year
Over the last two months, PCM Schools have seen an increase in student enrollment by 22 students. While we are very proud that parents/guardians are choosing PCM for their students, this uptick in enrollment in a short time has begun to strain our ability to provide adequate educational support and adequate learning space for students. Due to this, the Board voted 7-0 to deny all open enrollment requests for admission to the district for the remainder of the 22-23 school year. Open enrollment requests will continue to be accepted for the 23-24 school year.
Approved Contract for Evening Custodial Services in the Prairie City School Buidlings
The Board approved a contract with Reliable Maintenance Company to provide evening custodial services at both buildings in Prairie City. Current custodial staff working evenings in Prairie City will be moved to another position.
Highlights: November 21, 2022
It was a busy night at the Board table as the PCM School Board held both their regular monthly meeting and their annual organizational meeting, which is required by code to be held in November of each school year. During the organizational meeting the Board selects a President and Vice President. Ryan VanderKamp was re-elected to serve as PCM President and Rod DeHaai was elected to serve as Vice President. It was approved that monthly meetings will continue to be held on the 3rd Monday of the month at 6:00 PM in the HS Learning Center. Be sure to check out the Board minutes for more information.
College and Career Transition Coordinator Presentation
Morgan Donovan, PCM CCTC, provided an overview of her responsibilities and services to Junior and Senior High School students and their families. PCM is very fortunate to have a career counselor assisting families and students as they take the next steps after graduation. Check out the Oct. Newsletter below for more information.
Diamond Trail FFA National Convention Presentation
Diamond Trail FFA members shared their experience at the FFA National Convention held in Indianapolis during the last week of October. The Food Science and Technology team earned a Bronze while competing at the national level. Congrats, Diamond Trail FFA Members, and keep up the great work!
The Board always enjoys student presentations. We encourage other student groups to share their experiences during a Board meeting.
PCM Branding Guidelines: APPROVED
You asked—we delivered. Many community members have expressed concerns about the inconsistent use of PCM school colors and logos. We needed a brand and guidelines. Over the past year and a half, Mr. Swink has facilitated an advisory team comprised of students, staff, parents, and community members to create specific guidelines for school colors and the use of our official brand. The School Board approved these guidelines 7-0. All organizations will be provided with the branding guidelines and supported in their use of brand and school colors.
Monroe Elementary APPROVED to Host Backpack Program
The Monroe Elementary will now be the hosting site of the Backpack Food Pantry Program. This program will continue to run as it has in the past; it will just be housed at Monroe Elementary school. This program provides food and meal staples for qualifying students in grades K-12. Thank you to Mandy Shannon who has gone above and beyond to ensure this program is available for students in our district. The PCM Community School District maintains a strong commitment to partnering with community service providers to support our students and families. Thank you Food Bank of Iowa! Thank you community volunteers who donate your time to help us bag items. #strongertogether
Public Hearing Date Set for Redistricting Boundaries for Directors
The Board has set a public hearing for Monday, Dec. 12 at 6:00 PM to seek public comment on the proposed director districts for the PCM Community School District. The Board was required to examine the current district boundaries after the 2020 census. A larger map is available in Dr. Michelle's office at the PCM—Prairie City Campus.
School Safety
The Administration team and Board are continuing their diligent commitment to improving the safety of our school district. The Board approved a recommendation from the administration team for additional cameras and viewing stations to be installed in each building. Additionally, the Board approved the PCM District's Radon Testing Plan. Superintendent Havenstrite also shared the improvements made to the district webpage which include detailed resources for Bullying and an anonymous Tip Reporting system.
Future Work of the Board
- In December, the Board will be reviewing the district financial indicators and establishing financial goals. The work session will include a presentation from ISFIS CEO, Larry Siegel.
- The Facilities Master Planning team will be continuing their work, with a goal of sharing their recommendations to the Board in January.
Highlights: October 17, 2022
Certified Enrollment
Girl's Wrestling: APPROVED
The Board approved to enter a sharing agreement with Colfax-Mingo for a Girl's Wrestling Program. At this time we have approximately 8 high school students who have expressed interest.
Committee Participation Requested
The Board is seeking community participants on two active committees.
1. The School Improvement Advisory Committee will meet 2-3 times during the school year. The purpose of this committee is to review student learning and culture in the district and to make recommendations to the Board. Meeting dates are listed on the attached flyer.
2. Facilities Long-Range Planning Advisory will meet twice per month beginning in November and running through February. This committee will actively study our current facilities and needs and examine state-of-the-art facilities in other districts. This committee is facilitated by Martin Gardner and Denovo consultants.
***Any community members interested in participating in either of these committees, contact Dr. Havenstrite at mhavenstrite@pcmschools.org.
Modified Allowable Growth For Special Education Deficit
The Board approved a request to the SBRC for Modified Allowable Growth for the Special Education Supplement (special ed deficit). FY21 deficit is $413,320.97. (This is a required action.)
Future Work of the Board
- The Board is continuing their work on a redistricting plan that meets the requirements of the Iowa Code. The draft of the proposed redistricting map will be distributed in November.
- The annual meeting of the PCM Board will be held on Nov. 21st. During this meeting, the Board will select officers, identify financial agencies, school legal counsel, and other mandated designations. The annual meeting will be conducted immediately following the regular November Board Meeting.
Highlights: September 19, 2022
Approval of Instructional Support Levy (FY 2024 to FY 2028)
The PCM School Board approved a resolution Monday to continue collecting an instructional support levy for the next five years, beginning in FY 2024. The levy would be up for renewal again in 2028. The levy was set to expire with FY 2023 without board action. The levy is collected from two tax sources: local property tax and a surtax on the state income tax. Currently, most Iowa school districts have an approved levy (over 98%).
Last year, PCM received approximately $205,000, though that number can fluctuate from year to year. Please note: this does not impact your current property tax rate. It is simply a renewal of the levy.The revenues from the Instructional Support Program may be expended for any purpose allowed from the General Fund, such as teacher salaries for K-3 to reduce class size, allocations for instructional supplies and upgrading outdated equipment needed for classrooms, initiatives, science laboratories, etc. Funding may not be used to supplant funding authorized to be received for returning dropout and dropout prevention programs, gifted and talented programs, PPEL levy, Management levy, or special education deficits.
Approval of the Strategic Roadmap
The Board of Directors approved the Strategic Roadmap, which is a culmination of the work completed by Board members, parents, students, and staff under the facilitation of TeamWorks. Beginning in May, parents, students and teachers were provided an opportunity to participate in focus groups and surveys to gather their insight on their Desired Daily Experience at the PCM School District. Throughout the summer, the district strategic planning team and the Board of Directors reviewed the district mission, vision, and values and established four strategic directions based off of the Desired Daily Experiences. Click here to view the approved PCM Strategic Roadmap.
Diamond Trail Students Approved to Attend National FFA Expo
The PCM Diamond Trail FFA organization requested approval from the Board of Directors to attend the National FFA Expo in Indianapolis, IN. In addition to the leadership training opportunity our students will participate in, the Food Science team will be competing for Gold! This past June, members of the team qualified for Nationals by taking top places in competition categories at the state level. The approximate cost of the trip is around $8500 and is funded largely through the Fruit Sales and personal donations to the organization. Best of luck to our Food Science Team! For more information about Agriculture Education, visit their Facebook page.
PCM Elementary PTA/PTO Merger
The Board heard a presentation from the current ME PTA and PCE PTO presidents regarding the merger of the two organizations. This merger was initiated and supported by members of both organizations. The two groups are in the process of combining finances, leadership and by-laws to become on PCM Elementary PTO. Yet another example of #strongertogether!
Future of Work of the Board
- As a result of the 2020 census, the PCM Board of Directors will continue to examine the seven district boundaries to ensure that they are representative and compliant with the law. (The Iowa Secretary of State requires district populations to be within 10% (largest district / by the smallest district=less than 1.10). The Board is utilizing legal advisement from the district attorney and expertise from a consultant from Cornerstone Geospatial Consulting on reviewing the seven district boundaries.
- The board will continue their work with TeamWorks to establish specific Board goals that align with our Strategic Roadmap.
Notice of Nondiscrimination
It is the policy of the PCM Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact the district’s Equity Coordinator, Mr. Jeremy Swink, 7-12 Activities Director, PO Box 490, Prairie City, IA, 515-994-8222, jswink@pcmschools.org