Monday’s monthly meeting of the Perry Community School District Board of Education started 30 minutes early because the board held a public work session to discuss a major three-year facility project plan.
The board reviewed expenses and revenue streams, including the statewide penny tax and physical plant and equipment levy (PPEL) funds. Among the items discussed as priorities for the three-year overview included a possible switch to LED lighting in buildings, the replacement of a district vehicle and electrical systems and work in the middle school.
As part of the discussion of finances, Treasurer Kent Bultman informed the board that a $66,000 payment in June would be the final outlay for bonds issued to help pay for the Perry Athletic Complex.
The board agreed to continue reviewing finances and priorities and to hold another working session Dec. 7 at 5 p.m.
Elementary Assistant Principal Ryan Marzen reported on the continuing decline in office referrals over the past few years. He noted 97 percent of the study body had no referrals at all, while the total referrals this year so far was 25, down from 33 at the same point last year.
The principals from each building commented on the percentage of parents taking part in the recent parent-teacher conferences. Attendance at the elementary conferences was 96 percent, with 92 percent taking part in the middle school conferences and 89 percent at the high school, all numbers in line with what each principal expected.
A brief discussion was held of the transition to standards-based grading, which has yet to be implemented at the high school. The switch, while causing some initial confusion, is proceeding quite well, the principals reported.
The board voted to approve an application for modified allowable growth, based on a combination of increased enrollment and open enrollment out numbers as well as Limited English Proficiency beyond five years. The application is for $393,540.40.
Also approved were numerous revisions of board policies and a series of personnel matters.
The Perry School Board meets the second Monday of each month in the Brady Library in Perry High School at 6 p.m. The public is welcome to attend.
