Publishers Note: The audio was very hard to understand and follow on Tuesday nights JISD School Board meeting online. As such, Superintendent Rob Barnwell provided the minutes he took during the meeting.
From Rob Barnwell
Regular Meeting
May 12, 2020
The meeting (videoconference due to the covid19 crisis) was called to order by President Jason Bonner at 6:01 pm.
Members in attendance were Jason Bonner, Dr. Kent Thigpen, Bobby Langbartels, Leah Cooper, Kevin Godfrey, Ned Fratangelo, and J.P. Abernathy.
District personnel present were Rob Barnwell, Dr. Tim Phy, Michael Walker, Lindsey Whitaker, Dr. Lynn Phillips, Barbra Cox, Jay Patrick, Jack Smith, and Stephanie Holman. Others present included Mackenzie Burt, Evan Spears, Steve Ward, Sandra Anderson, Rod Hopes, Lauren Anderson, Kristy Myers, Ginger Hinojosa, and Leigh Ann Blankenship. Many others were tuned in via videoconference.
Mr. Langbartels gave the invocation.
Mr. Bonner led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag.
No one indicated interest in presenting commentary regarding the Public Comment agenda item.
Campus and Administrative reports were given at this time. Mr. Barnwell indicated the normal financial report was available for each board member within the agenda packets. Employee candidates were introduced by Dr. Phy and Ms. Whitaker. Mr. Barnwell gave the Board an update on the recent information being disseminated by TEA and the governor’s office.
Ms. Cooper made a motion to approve the 2020-2021 appraisal calendar and appraisers for next school year. Motion was duly seconded by Mr. Fratangelo. Motion carried, 7-0.
Mr. Abernathy made a motion to approve the MCAD budget, as presented. Motion was duly seconded by Mr. Godfrey. Motion carried, 7-0.
A discussion was held about the Teacher Incentive Allotment plan, which is a fluid document with expected changes as it evolves. Dr. Philips explained the process and the relevant timelines associated with this new incentive program.
Mr. Langbartels made a motion to approve the facility projects, as presented, including the repaving/patching of driveways, parking lots, and a new roof for the junior high gymnasium through the involvement of the TIPS purchasing cooperative. Mr. Fratangelo seconded the motion. Mr. Barnwell further explained that, with the involvement of architect Dan Bartlett, he will explore the options of viable contractors and share relevant information with the Board as these plans move forward. Motion carried, 7-0.
A discussion was held related to graduation plans for the class of 2020. Mr. Barnwell explained that graduation ceremonies have been a major topic of discussion and concern for all districts across the state due to guidelines/restrictions, through executive orders from Governor Abbot, which have limited district’s options for such events. Mr. Walker explained how he believes the ceremony should be carried out. He also mentioned his plans for this event to be held on May 29th, at 8:00 pm at the JISD football stadium. Many board members expressed support of the plan.
Mr. Fratangelo made a motion to approve the resolution to allow for the cessation of premium pay for hourly employees, including giving the authority to the superintendent to make decisions related to employees who may have to continue to work remotely on a case-by case basis due to the ongoing Covid19 situation, beginning June 1st, 2020., as presented in the resolution. Ms. Cooper seconded the motion. Motion carried, 7-0.
Mr. Abernathy made a motion to approve the amendments to the stipend schedule, as presented, for the positions of color guard sponsor (1,200 additional dollars), greenhouse supervisor (2,000 dollars), and TIA coordinator (3,500 dollars). Mr. Langbartels seconded the motion. Motion carried, 7-0.
Mr. Fratangelo made a motion to approve the Consent agenda, which included previous minutes and budget amendments. Motion was duly seconded by Mr. Godfrey. Motion carried, 7-0.
The Board convened into executive session at 6:43 pm to discuss personnel and real property interests. The Board reconvened back into open session at 7:14 pm.
Mr. Barnwell asked that the minutes reflect the previous acceptance of resignations from Lakeshia Neal-Bolden, Normel Gilliam, Bethany Venable, and Charmaine Lamb.
Mr. Barnwell recommended the Board offer employment (10 month-probationary) contracts to Steven Ward. Kristy Myers, Ginger Hinojosa, Sandra Anderson, Rob Hopes, Leigh Ann Blankenship, and Mackenzie Burt, along with an 11 month probationary contract to Even Spears, and a 12 month probationary contract to Lauren Anderson for the 2020-21 school year. Mr. Langbartels made a motion to approve the personnel needs as presented. Dr. Thigpen seconded the motion. Motion carried, 7-0.
Due to no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:16 p.m.