After school program gaining momentum
Jan. 19, 2012

Galaxy Inc.'s after school program has picked up momentum after a slow start, members of the Montezuma Board of Education learned during their regular meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

Shannon McNaul, program coordinator, told the board that student attendance was slow at the start of the school year but numbers have picked up recently. She and her staff are currently looking for their own building.

A presentation was made about some land on school property on which to possibly build in the future.

Shannon Arment, a preschool teacher, discussed the GOLD Assessment which is being used weekly to assess students in nine different areas. This information is used for evaluating students in preparation for kindergarten.

Elementary Principal Darin Jones said MAP testing will be done this coming Tuesday and Thursday. He said the preschool corrective action plan has been completed and implemented.

Jones said ITBS results will be back, hopefully by Feb. 1. Jones also said success plan meetings continue to be a positive experience.

Junior high and high school Principal Brian Moretz said the second semester is away to a great start and thanked staff member John Gallagher for his work in scheduling. Moretz said May 10 is the last day of school for the senior class, with graduation on May 13. It was noted that these dates have been changed because of the recent site visit.

Moretz said incentives have been offered to secondary students if their ITBS scores increased.

The board approved participating in the Poweshiek County Hazard Plan, giving Montezuma Schools access to FEMA training and possible grant funds.

In other business, George Salnave was approved as volunteer golf coach for spring of 2012. Staff member Josh Anderson was approved to coach junior high girls track in spring 2012.

The board approved an amendment of the contract of Director of Food Service to $20,025 for the remainder of the 2011-12 school year.

The board also approved the job descripton for technology coordinator.

Superintendent Dave Versteeg discussed the upcoming school board inservice, a potential board forum, and board learning.

Versteeg also said that quotes have been received to install magnet strips on interior doors that will be connected to the fire alarm system.

During discussion, the board talked about specifics in Gov. Terry Branstad's education reform plan.

The board adjourned into closed session for its scheduled evaluation of the superintendent. 

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