February 2013 SLATE - Idaho School Boards Asscoiation by Idaho School Boards Association

SLATE

1 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

ISBA

DIAMOND 2 / Volume 31 / February 2013

BUSINESS PARTNER

SLATE

in every issue 5

From the Director’s Chair Mending Fences

President’s Message Do You Remember?

Public Instruction 3% Increase for Idaho Public Schools Next Year

Ask ISBA Transferring Sick Leave Days

Statistic of the Month Projection Statistics to 2020

From the State Board of Education Improving Education: A Continuous Process

Safety Notes Spring Sports - Safety & Loss Control

policy update news Student’s Come First Overturned: What Now?

13 features

26 annual convention 24

ISBA 70th Annual Convention Review

Awards Banquet Recipients

Thank You to Our Sponsors

Scholarship Trust Auction

Business Session Report

Distinguished Student of the Quarter

Board Member in the News: Tim Skubitz

A New ISBA Boardsmanship Award Program

Introduction to USBAFlex

18 3 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

Idaho School Boards Association

SLATE Contributors Every Issue

Executive Committee Board Officers & Executive Director Executive Board Regional Representatives, Board Officers & Executive Director

Executive Board Officers Karen Echeverria ISBA Executive Director

From the Director’s Chair

President President-Elect Vice President

Anne Ritter, Meridian Jt. SD Todd Wells, Castleford Jt. SD David Andersen, Oneida County SD

Imm. Past President Dallas Clinger, American Falls Jt. SD Anne Ritter ISBA President President’s Message Tom Luna Superintendent of Public Instruction Public Instruction Ken Edmunds President, State Board of Education From the State Board of Education Allan Ranstrom Moreton & Company Safety Notes Pat Pinkham Moreton & Company Safety Notes

Editorial Office P.O. Box 9797 Boise, ID 83707-4797 222 N. 13th Street Boise, ID 83702 Phone: (208) 854-1476 • Toll-Free: (866) 799-4722 Fax: (208) 854-1480 Online: www.idsba.org

SLATE Subscription Subscription to the SLATE, published four times per year, is by membership to the Idaho School Boards Association. The material contained herein is for informational purposes only and may be quite divergent in point of view and/or controversial in nature. It is the belief of the Association that the democratic process functions best through discussions which challenge and stimulate thinking on the part of the reader. Therefore, this material does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the Association or its members.

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4 / Volume 31 / February 2013

Regional Representatives Region I Reps

Melanie Staples, Boundary County SD Archie McGregor, St. Maries Jt. SD

Region II Reps

John Menter, Troy SD Rodney Krogh, Kamiah Jt. SD

Region III Reps

Lori Bennett, Bruneau-Grand View Jt. SD Juan (Mike) Vuittonet, Meridian Jt. SD

Region IV Reps

Dane Higdem, Kimberly SD Lisa Knudson, Castleford Jt. SD

Region V Reps

Janie Gebhardt, Pocatello SD James Stoor, Soda Springs Jt. SD

Region VI Reps

Lisa Burtenshaw, Idaho Falls SD Nancy Arnold, Teton County SD

Region VII Reps

Deb Foster, South Lemhi SD Shannon Johnson, Salmon SD

Region VIII Reps

Marg Chipman, Weiser SD Barbara Dixon, Meadows Valley SD

ISBA Staff Executive Director Associate Executive Director Policy & Government Affairs Director Office & Finance Coor. Training Director Board Trainer Research & Web Coor.

Karen Echeverria Misty Jones Jessica Harrison Kristi Toolson Jackie Hopper Liz Killpack April Hoy

ISBA Mission Statement The mission of the Idaho School Boards Association is to provide leadership and services to local school boards for the benefit of students and for the advocacy of public education.

2013 ISBA Calendar April 21-23

NSBA Annual Conference

April-May

Region Meetings

Watch your email for your region’s info

November 6-8

ISBA Annual Convention

Visit us online for member services, board development, and much more: www.idsba.org

SLATE

By Karen Echeverria Executive Director

Mending Fences It seems like a lot has happened since I last wrote an article for the SLATE. We had an election that brought several new faces to the legislature. The Students Come First laws were repealed. The ISBA Annual Convention was held. During the Business Session, at the Convention, trustees passed several new resolutions that will direct the legislative activities of the Association. And, there has been some controversy among the members of ISBA. One of the hardest things any association deals with is making sure that all the members feel as though they are respected. That is sometimes difficult when the opinions of the membership vary widely. As I watched and listened to the debate on the floor during the business session, I was struck by a couple of things. First, that we really do have a myriad of opinions on any topic and our members certainly are not afraid to express those opinions. That is a really good thing. Second, while those opinions are different, our members were always respectful of anotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opinion. So how do we capture those two issues and extend them to our full membership throughout the year? As with your local board, you may sometimes be the opposing vote on any given item. But, when the vote is over, you are still a member the board and must support the final outcome. That is what occurs with our Association, just on a larger scale. As most of you know by now, the membership passed a resolution that will cause some controversy with the Idaho Education Association (IEA). At the same time, another resolution asking that the stakeholders meet and try to come to consensus was very narrowly defeated. I was surprised by the defeat. However, as I listened to the debate, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think it was the concept of discussion and compromise that was in question. It was the specific wording of the resolution. In the end, whether the resolution passed or not, the ISBA Executive Board and I got the message. It is important to our membership that we work with all the entities involved when supporting or opposing education related issues. That includes working with all school districts as well as other entities. I still think our membership wants ISBA to work with all education stakeholders in an attempt to come to some consensus and compromise.

The past few years have been difficult ones for education and for our Association. Funding cuts, the requirement that we take stances on issues that not everyone can agree with, and education reform mayhem have not been easy for us. So, how do we move forward from here? What do we do to mend the fences and become the powerful cohesive group I know we can be? I firmly believe a big part of that is communication. As we move forward, I personally need to be more cognizant of making sure our entire membership has the full information that the Executive Board receives. Hopefully, with that information will come more understanding. Again, there may not be agreement but at least the membership will understand the genesis for the discussion, debate, and final outcome. I hope you will join me in this communication quest. Communication is a two way street. It means that you will need to communicate with me as well. I am always open for comments, suggestions, or questions, and I look forward to hearing from you. I am hopeful that the next year will bring cohesiveness and compromise to our organization as we move forward to the next 70 years.

karen@idsba.org

As with your local board, you may sometimes be the opposing vote on any given item. But, when the vote is over, you are still a member of the board and must support the final outcome. That is what occurs with our Association, just on a larger scale.

5 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

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LEADERSHIP. EDUCATION. ACHIEVEMENT. PROGRESS. « Learn about the latest federal legislative and legal decisions « Get money-saving strategies for your district « Connect with fellow school leaders from across the nation « See the latest technology to bring back to your district Attend with your leadership team to make the LEAP to better learning and empower students to achieve.

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6 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

By Anne Ritter ISBA President

Do You Remember Why You Wanted to Become a Trustee? granted at graduation. I agreed to participate thinking that I should contribute to the solution. So began my series of district wide committee memberships. My next personal interaction began when my youngest son came home from first grade and said, “I am different.” After more questioning I learned that he had begun to spend his time in the hall when the class was learning math. He already knew the concepts and it was the teacher’s attempt to differentiate the instruction for both he and Jessica, his contemporary. He also explained that he spent most of his day helping other students. A first grade teachers’ assistant. I was recently invited out to coffee by two disgruntled patrons, and after discussing all of the reasons why the schools are failing and what our efforts are to improve them they asked the question “Why did you become a trustee?” They asked after I explained what it was like to have the position, with the number of meetings, phone calls, and emails that require either attendance or attention. I thought it was a great question; one that is so easy to forget after 11 years. My journey began with a complaint to our local district (surprise, surprise) regarding the meaning of valedictorian and salutatorian and the awarding of those honors at graduation. I thought it was unfair that the students that took a more difficult class load and got a lower grade were penalized. My call was met with a very polite response of “Thank you for your thoughts.” The next day I received a phone call inviting me to be on the district committee that recommends not only what the graduation requirements should be, but also what awards should be

It took me about an hour to fly down to the local elementary school to get this situation addressed. They were very good and helped me understand the complications of the classroom setting when there is such a wide variance in the kid’s skills and aptitudes. We designed a plan wherein he would be given extra materials and I would help both he and Jessica continue to excel in math. It was a good beginning.

manner in which a school district is funded as well as the numerous policies, expectations, procedures, and competing needs. Seeing the entire picture of a district from the inside, rather than the narrow focus of a parent, required a dedication to learn as much as possible. I also had to respect the limitations of the powers of a sole trustee, while enjoying the benefits of the conversations, decisions, and clear dedication of four others on my local board who had also volunteered to serve. I am happy to report that my oldest son (the one who was not awarded valedictorian status) is now a third year post doctoral fellow at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, Georgia and my youngest son (“I am different”) entered the University of Idaho with 32 credits and will graduate this May with honors and is planning to go directly into a Master’s degree program. Our Idaho schools served them well. Why did you run for a trustee position? Do you remember your motivation? Have you met your goals?

More committees followed. I ran for the board when I had one of those rare moments when the stars were aligned: my kids were older, my husband agreed to the time commitment and I felt that I was familiar enough with the district operations to be helpful. I also felt that the experience I had with advocating for my own children would be well served in advocating for other kids who did not have the benefit (or burden) of having a parent ready, willing, and able to advocate for them. What surprised me was the complicated

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SLATE

By Tom Luna

Superintendent of Public Education

Superintendent Luna Recommends 3% Increase for Idaho Public Schools Next Year As with every year, I have the opportunity to present my ideas and recommendations to the Idaho Legislature for the public schools budget in the coming year. This year is unique because the Legislature must address the current Fiscal Year 2013 budget as well as look ahead and set the Fiscal Year 2014 budget for Idaho’s public schools next year. In my presentation before the Joint FinanceAppropriation Committee (JFAC), I urged legislators to provide funding to school districts through the remainder of fiscal year 2013 as originally appropriated last year. The fact is that districts set budgets, signed contracts, and made commitments based on the original fiscal year 2013 appropriation. Teachers engaged in expected professional development to implement new tools in the classroom. It’s important and necessary that districts receive the money they were expecting, and that educators continue to receive the professional development that they planned for and need. It’s not only necessary, but it is the right thing to do. This will not require JFAC to re-open the public schools budget, but will require legislation by the germane committees – the House and Senate Education Committees. I am glad that the Chairmen of those committees have already introduced legislation that would address the Fiscal Year 2013 budget to ensure districts and public charter schools receive the necessary funding. 8 / Volume 31 / February 2013

In addition to the Fiscal Year 2013 budget, I recommended a 3 percent, or $37.9 million, increase in general funds for Idaho’s public schools in Fiscal Year 2014. This increase will be used to restore the 1.67% shift in teacher salaries, raise the minimum teacher salary to $31,000, restore a historic line item for classroom technology, provide professional development as Idaho teachers begin to implement higher academic standards, fund more math and science teachers, and continue to offer dual credit opportunities for high school students. I also reaffirmed my commitment to working with the Idaho Legislature and Task Force for Improving Education, recently created by the State Board of Education, to develop a new, differentiated compensation plan for Idaho’s teachers to ensure that the $38 million currently in state funding for teacher pay – a historic increase for Idaho’s teachers last year – remains in teacher compensation. I am convinced the only way we can continue to see this unprecedented amount of funding go toward teacher compensation is if the state develops a form of differentiated compensation for Idaho’s educators – similar to what other professions have in place today. In years past, even in the best economic times, the Idaho Legislature increased teacher pay by only 2 percent or 3 percent

in a given year. However, last year, the Legislature increased teacher pay by a historic 5.8 percent through a combination of base salaries, minimum salaries and a statewide pay-for-performance plan. The majority of this new funding was distributed through pay-for-performance. At the same time, the Legislature only approved a 2 percent increase for state employees. It is clear we can keep this funding in teacher compensation if we have a differentiated compensation plan in place. I understand the plan in the future will look different than the plan that stakeholders crafted in 2009 and that the State implemented last year. I am comfortable with that, and I look forward to working with the members of the Task Force for

In my presentation before the Joint FinanceAppropriation Committee (JFAC), I urged legislators to provide funding to school districts through the remainder of fiscal year 2013 as originally appropriated last year.

SLATE

Improving Education and the Legislature so that together we can ensure every penny continues to go to Idaho’s teachers and educators, not only this year but next year and in the future.

Boar d Trai ni ng of the Quarter

In case you missed my budget presentation before JFAC, here are the highlights of what I recommended for Fiscal Year FY2014:

THE DOLLARS AND SENSE OF SCHOOL FINANCE

•

3%, or $37.9 million, increase in General Funds for public schools

•

1.67% to restore the shift in funding for teacher salaries

•

Raise the minimum teacher salary to $31,000

•

1.5% increase in discretionary funds for local school districts and public charter schools

•

2% increase in pupil transportation funds

•

$10.4 million to restore a historic line item for classroom technology for school districts

•

$3.7 million to fund professional development as Idaho teachers implement higher academic standards

•

$4.8 million to continue funding for more math and science teachers

•

$7.7 million to follow through on the State’s commitment to operate the statewide instructional management system, known as Schoolnet, and provide professional development opportunities for Idaho teachers on how to integrate this system in the classroom

•

$10 million to begin a two-year phase-in to restore school facilities and maintenance funding

•

$250,000 to continue the Dual Credit for Early Completers Program

•

$150,000 to reconvene the Safe Schools Task Force that will take a renewed look at school safety in Idaho

Financial Governance: Fiscal responsibility is establishing budgets that are affordable, sustainable, stable, and responsible. It involves setting a budget that is within the means of funding, having a capital projects plan, using resources wisely and communicating the budget and the financial health to the patrons. This workshop will include topics on: •

The basics of financial oversight, accountability, and fiduciary responsibilities, including the roles, and responsibilities of key district finance officials in properly safeguarding, using, and accounting for district resources.

•

Board members will be able to read and understand the finance reports, and what reports warrant special attention.

•

The importance of the audit and the process for audits, as well as common types of fraud, attitudes, and conditions that invite abuse will be explored.

•

The overall goal for the board member upon completion of this training will be knowing how to recognize sound financial management and the signs of a fiscally stressed district as well as the policy and oversight actions that the board can put in place to protect resources.

2 Hour Workshop: $200 plus trainer’s travel (Savings of over $50!) Special rates can be negotiated if districts would like to schedule the workshop together! Split the travel and get a further reduction on the workshop. Contact Jackie Hopper for details.

Call the ISBA Office to discuss your training needs. Phone: (208) 854-1476 Toll-Free: (866) 799-4722 www.idsba.org

Jackie Hopper (208) 880-8662 Jackie@idsba.org

Liz Killpack (208) 589-4037 Liz@idsba.org

9 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

ask ISBA Correction to Previous Ask ISBA In our previous (October 2012) issue of the SLATE we posted the following question and answer: Question: Is there any leeway in transferring sick leave days for an employee from one district to another? For example, we hired a principal from another district who has 170 days of sick leave. May we transfer all of those day? Answer: No. Unfortunately, 90 days in the maximum and it is set in Idaho Code Section 331217. School districts are free to craft policies that would allow for the transfer of less than 90 days, but cannot allow more than the maximum allowed by statute. After reviewing this matter further, we felt that our answer warranted clarification.

Section 33-1217, Idaho Code reads as follows: 33-1217. Accumulation of unused sick leave -- Transfer -- Sick leave when districts divide or consolidate. Unused sick leave shall be accumulated from year to year as long as an employee remains continuously in the service of the same school district, including charter districts, to ninety (90) days accumulation of leave. Termination of employment in any district shall terminate sick leave rights, both current and accumulated, except when such employee is employed by another district or another state educational agency during the school year immediately following the year of termination or within three (3) school years immediately following the year of termination

Pursuant to the statute, in cases of termination of employment when an employee is subsequently employed by another district or another state educational agency during the school year immediately following the year of termination, or within three (3) school years immediately following the year of termination if the termination of employment is due to a reduction in force, then the 90 day maximum does NOT apply. Additionally, after speaking with representatives of PERSI, ISBA learned that this statute applies to the PERSI calculation of unused

10 / Volume 31 / February 2013

if termination of employment is due to a reduction in force; and the accumulated leave up to a maximum of ninety (90) days shall be secured for, and credited to, the employee by the district or state educational agency thereafter employing such employee. Whenever new school districts are formed by the consolidation or by the division of existing districts, the accumulated sick leave of school district employees who continue in service in the new district or districts created by such consolidation or division shall have such accumulated sick leave secured for, and credited to, them in such newly created district, or districts.

sick leave applicable when a PERSI member employee retires. PERSI stated that a district is free to take on the obligation of sick days beyond the 90 day statutory maximum, but the maximum of 90 days will be used by PERSI for purposes of calculating the value that PERSI will pay in benefits to the retiree for accumulation of unused sick leave. ISBA apologizes for any problems or confusion caused by our previous information and hopes that this clarification will clear up any misunderstandings.

SLATE

STATISTIC OF THE MONTH

Projection Statistics to 2020

Source Information Courtesy of: National Center for Education Statistics, U.S. Department of Education. http://nces.ed.gov/programs/projections/projections2020/sec1a.asp

In budgeting one of the challenges we face is to look at enrollment trends and try to predict the number of students that will be enrolled in the coming year. Here is an interesting look at the national trend of enrollment. This projection is done by the National Center for Education Statistics and is meant for discussion purposes only. Each individual school district needs to look at the trends within their own community to assist in the budgeting process. Total public and private elementary and secondary school enrollment was 55 million in fall 2008,

representing an 8 percent increase since fall 1995. Between fall 2008, the last year of actual public school data, and fall 2020, a further increase of 5 percent is expected, with increases projected in public schools and decreases in private schools. Increases in public school enrollment are expected for Blacks, Hispanics, Asians/Pacific Islanders, and American Indians/Alaska Natives, and a decrease is expected for Whites. Increases in public school enrollment are expected in the Midwest, South, and West, and a decrease is expected in the Northeast.

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SLATE

Improving Education: A Continuous Process Education reform in Idaho has created more interest, conversation and controversy than most issues in recent memory. That’s understandable given that public education accounts for the biggest share of the state’s budget and that many of us along with our children and grandchildren are products of Idaho’s education system. We all have a stake in how public K-12 education prepares future generations.

By Ken Edmunds

President, State Board of Education

In this new year, the conversation continues about how our education system can adapt and keep pace with the needs of our increasingly technical and ever changing world. In December, Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter announced that the Board would shepherd a statewide discussion regarding how to move education forward to benefit Idaho students. While this will be no easy task, the Board’s experience in earlier improvement efforts including the development and assessment of state standards, the redesign of high school graduation requirements, the promotion of programs and mechanisms to increase dual credit, the enablement and creation of the Charter School Commission among many other initiatives, will serve us well as we tackle this assignment. Former Board President Richard Westerberg will chair a group of 31 members, who represent a broad and diverse group of stakeholders from across the state. Those groups include members of the Idaho School

12 / Volume 31 / February 2013

Boards Association, the Association of School Administrators, the Idaho Education Association, Idaho Business for Education, and the state’s Parent Teacher Association and others. I am confident we have assembled a knowledgeable and forward thinking group of experts to help guide this process. All of these individuals have common interests and objectives that include a desire to help Idaho achieve a prosperous and productive future. We can all agree that the best way to get there is to see that Idaho students receive the best education possible. I am hopeful that with a focus on best practices, a review of available data and thorough, thoughtful conversation, the group can come to areas of consensus and identify a constructive path forward. The first meeting of the task force was held Friday, January 11, at the Yanke Family Research Park at Boise State University. We experienced a robust and open

discussion about how we can capitalize on what is best about our education system and how we can address what needs to be leveraged, changed and improved. While the task force meetings will be important, we will need additional input and feedback from a much larger audience, and there will be opportunities in the future for people to provide their perspectives and ideas. We know that everyone has a vested interest in the outcome of this Task Force and other similar groups that will surely follow. For more information about the task force including upcoming meetings, visit the Board’s website at www.boardofed.idaho.gov. Ken Edmunds is the current president of the Idaho State Board of Education. He has worked in development and investments for more than 25 years. Edmunds and his wife make their home in Twin Falls.

SLATE

By allan ranstrom Moreton & Company

and pat pinkham Moreton & Company

Spring Sports Safety & Loss Control A recent analysis of the ISBA Insurance Plan’s General Liability loss experience show that one of the most frequent areas where losses occur is in Physical Education and/or Athletic Activity events. Since July 2010, liability claim costs associated with PE/Athletics total approximately $650,000. With spring sports about to start, here are a number of ideas that can be put into place to minimize exposure to your student athletes. Physical Education Instructors and Coaches should develop a Master Safety Plan to organize strategies to limit exposures to injuries. This Master Plan should include a thought process that tests and inspects these safety issues so they are included in the daily lesson plans, practices, and pregame planning. Planning • Have your coaches planned their course/practice with safety in mind? • Did they plan for rest and water breaks? Fields and Equipment • Are the gym, weight room, and play fields free of hazards? • Have your coaches inspected and assessed these areas? • Have they checked all of the equipment to ensure that it is safe to use? • Have the coaches also checked the individual player’s equipment? Is the protective equipment in good condition, properly selected, fitted, and worn? Supervision • Are the student athletes physically ready to participate, and have your coaches avoided mismatching student athletes in regard to size, age, and skill level? • Is the activity properly supervised? • Are there an adequate number of coaches and are all student athletes under the constant supervision of a coach? • Is the locker room properly monitored?

Physical Education Instructors and Coaches should develop a Master Safety Plan to organize strategies to limit exposures to injuries.

For more information: If you have any questions, or if you would like assistance in further developing your district’s Physical Education / Sports Safety and Loss Control program, please contact Allan Ranstrom or Pat Pinkham at Moreton & Company. We can be reached at 1-800-341-6789 or via email at allan@moreton.com, or ppinkham@moreton.com.

ISB A

DIAMOND BUSINESS P ARTNER

continued on pg. 17... 13 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

Students Come First Overturned:

What Now? A Local Governance Policy Perspective As you all know, in November voters overturned all three education laws packaged under the title Students Come First (SCF). This left schools pondering what they should do on many subjects, especially in regard to their local governance policies. Fortunately, the Idaho Attorney General’s Office acted quickly to issue some guidance on teacher contracts and evaluations. The Attorney General’s guidance essentially stated that although there was repeal of a large number of statutes by the referenda, that repeal does not make the actions undertaken while the laws were in effect illegal. In other words, the policies tied to master agreements and teacher contracts completed under the SCF laws were legal at the time they were entered into and are therefore valid for the rest of this contract year. For example, teacher contracts entered into under the SCF laws can remain in effect until their expiration, amendment, or re-negotiation. Unfortunately, there has not been as much guidance on local governance policy issues as there has been on issues such as the validity of teacher

contracts. However, many - if not most – school district policies can remain in place, without violating the law, until the school board determines whether they would like to retain them. For example, if the district has a mobile computing device policy, that policy likely does not violate any statute even with the overturn of SCF - and many districts do provide some school-issued devices to either students or staff that should be governed by local district policy. Other policies are likely in conflict with the law, or just do not make sense to retain since the referenda vote, and should be put on the priority list for review, revision, or removal. These policies include those relating to fractional average daily attendance, high school graduation requirements for online courses, certificated teacher hiring with principal approval, unpaid administrative leave, and pay for performance. For other policies, it may be best to wait and see if anything happens during the 2013 Legislative session. This includes employee contract policies and evaluation policies. One consideration is that Idaho’s No Child Left Behind Waiver was granted, in part, by the federal government because SCF was in place and required that a portion of

the teacher and administrator evaluations were based on student achievement. Thus, evaluation policies may get addressed this session. For those policies that are not in immediate conflict with the law, they should be put on the list for review after the Legislative session which usually ends in late March or early April. Although it is important to be aware of the local policy implications surrounding the overturn of SCF, it should be noted that school districts do not need to be in a panic or a rush to change their local governance policies. Good policy-making requires careful consideration of the impact of the changes and a broad array of input. Start out by creating a list of the policies that should be on the agenda for immediate review such as those referenced above. Then add to the list those policies that should be looked at post-session such as contract and evaluation policies. Take time to review what was included in the SCF legislative package, especially in regard to SB1108. A perusal of the repealed SCF legislation will help you understand what changed when the laws were overturned and will help you craft your list of policies for review.

Policy Update Service Remember, the Idaho School Boards Association (ISBA) is here to help! ISBA has addressed the policy issues noted above in its recent Release provided to members of its Policy Update Service. Additionally, ISBA will be re-examining its’ model policies on contracts and evaluations after the Legislative session and ISBA Policy Update Service providing updated model policies on these issues. Toll-Free: (866) 799-4722 If you have a policy question, or would like to learn more about becoming a member of Email: Jessica@idsba.org Web: www.idsba.org ISBA’s Policy Update Service, please contact Jessica Harrison at Jessica@idsba.org. 14 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

By Jessica Harrison

Policy & Government Affairs Director

Good policy-making requires careful consideration of the impact of the changes and a broad array of input.

School board members should take their time and recognize the policy opportunities created by this change. Regardless of one’s feelings about the SCF legislation, it did effectively abolish the “evergreen” clauses contained in many master agreements. Therefore, many items previously dictated by the master agreement through evergreen clauses may now be addressed by the school board through local governance policies. The abolishment of evergreen clauses essentially provides boards with a clean slate in this year’s negotiations. For an item to be included in the master agreement, both parties have to agree to the terms. In other words, just because an item is proposed for

negotiation does not mean that agreement absolutely has to be reached on that item. As long as both parties are bargaining in good faith there is an opportunity to keep some appropriate items in board policy rather than automatically including them in the master agreement. For example, reductions in force are an issue where the board can determine if existing policy is adequate because the evergreen clauses that contained seniority as the sole requirement for conducting reductions in force have been removed. Take some time to consider these issues and the possibilities that change has brought for local governance decisions in your district.

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SLATE

Distinguished Student of the Quarter ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

tyler lewis age 18

gpa 4.044

school Idaho Falls High School

future plans Tyler is currently touring and applying for colleges. He plans to attend either Utah State, BYU Idaho, or another university close to home. His field of study is undecided but he is interested in many engineering fields as well as medical fields. He also plans to serve an LDS mission after graduation.

• • • • • • • • •

4.044 GPA National Honor Society Renaissance member and committee member 3 years AP US History junior year AP Statistics dual credit course with ISU Hope of America from Kiwanis International 2007 High Honors all years of Honor Roll in Junior High Summa Cum Laude honor roll all years at IFHS to date Presidential Academic Achievement and Physical Fitness award all years

EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Eagle Scout Award 2009 Youth Committee member in stake Church Youth Leadership 1st assistant to bishop Faith in God award 2007 Singing for Salvation Army and nursing homes in 2007 Senior project: researching cystic fibrosis. School club participation in Spanish Club, Presidents Club, Honor Society, and Ultimate Frisbee Club Elected Student Body Male Activities Director Student Government Cross Country, Wrestling, and Track participant Cross Country team captain Audition choir, Acappella, and honor choir. Participation in Solo Ensemble Festival and Valegrams. Homecoming Royalty Junior year 2nd assistant Most inspirational runner, sophomore year cross country

About the Idaho Dairy Council Distinguished Student Award The Idaho Dairy Council has promoted the success of students in Idaho since the fall of 1999 with the introduction of the Distinguished Student Award program. Every week the Idaho Dairy Council selects four students from around the state to honor for their exceptional academic, athletic, and civic contributions and achievements. The Idaho School Boards Association wants to help share the success of these amazing students with our community members, trustees, and superintendents. Student successes like these highlight the important outcomes from outstanding schools, teachers, and students.

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...continued from pg. 13

Emergency Plans • Do you have an emergency plan in case of an injury? • Is your emergency plan updated and do your coaches undergo annual training in the emergency preparedness plan? • Has each coach completed emergency first aid training and are their certifications up-to-date? • Has each of the coaches completed concussion awareness training? Harassment and Bullying • Most coaches understand the differences between team traditions, innocent fun, and inappropriate activities, but harassment, and hazing can sometimes be difficult to define. If team building traditions involve risk of harm or embarrassment to the student athlete, they should be discontinued. Volunteer Coaches • Many districts utilize volunteer coaches or coaches who are not credentialed instructors within the district. It is critical that all volunteer coaches be sanctioned and approved by the district, and pass the required criminal screening. • It is also a good risk management practice to never let a volunteer be the sole supervisor of a game or practice. All their work should

• •

be done under the supervision of the designated district coach. Don’t let a volunteer treat any injury unless they are a dedicated medical professional. Tasks such as suggesting conditioning programs, reporting to parents, or disciplinary actions should be left to the designated district coach.

Concussion Awareness • Concussions are typically associated with contact sports, but they can also occur during spring sports activities. • There is no such thing as a minor concussion. Expressions like “having your bell rung” downplay the severity of concussions. • Even more important is that coaches need to recognize the potentially life-threatening damage that can be inflicted when a second concussion occurs before the athlete has recovered completely from the first concussion. • When there is a possibility of a head injury, remove the student athlete from play and seek medical evaluation. “When in doubt – sit the player out”! • Post-concussion student athletes should not be allowed to practice or participate in athletic events until they have received written clearance from a physician.

I SBA

DIAMOND BU SI NESS PARTNER

17 / Volume 31 / February 2013

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board member in the news

Recently the Coeur d’Alene Press newspaper featured Lakeland School Board member, Tim Skubitz, in its newspaper. A special thank you to board member, Larry Brown, for letting us know about this great article so that we could share Tim’s accomplishments with his fellow board members around the State. We hope you enjoy this article like we did.

Tim Skubitz: Ketchup and Kids Are in His Veins By BRIAN WALKER Staff Writer, Coeur d’Alene Press Newspaper

Tim Skubitz’s labor of love is being around kids.

Skubitz’s community involvement has been far-reaching.

Growing up in Seattle, he was the middle child of five and his home was a magnet for youth.

In addition to the school board, he was recently elected vice president of the Rathdrum Area Chamber of Commerce and is a past president of the Lakeland Sunrise Rotary. He’s also been involved in the Spokane chapter of the Ronald McDonald House.

“Our house was always full of kids, whether it was neighborhood friends or any of our 19 cousins,” Skubitz said. He’s been working for McDonald’s, another kid-friendly spot, for 34 years. He worked at the restaurant throughout his high school years and is now the owner-operator of McDonald’s in Rathdrum, Newport and northwest Spokane that have a combined 140 employees. And, staying around children, Skubitz has served on the Lakeland School Board in Rathdrum since 2008. “Terri (wife) and I were given the opportunity to purchase the Rathdrum and Newport McDonald’s restaurants in 2002,” Skubitz said. “We moved our family to the Rathdrum area and have loved it ever since. The community and surrounding areas are a perfect place to raise a family.”

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McDonald’s in Rathdrum sponsors Big Wheel races during Rathdrum Days, honors kids for perfect attendance and academic improvement, hosts a fundraiser for schools called McTeacher Night, partners with the Rathdrum Library’s summer reading program and is active with the Parks and Recreation Department. “A fundamental philosophy of McDonald’s is to give back to the communities in which we do business, whether it’s time, talent or treasure,” Skubitz said. “We try to be involved with as many events within the community that we can.” Q: Do you have any personal memories of how McDonald’s impacted you as a youth? I can clearly remember how proud I was

when I received a certificate or ribbon that recognized my accomplishments during my youth. I would proudly display the award on my bedroom wall and take pride in the successes of my efforts. I once received a free skate pass to the local roller skating rink as a prize in the fourth grade and kept that certificate/coupon in my wallet for many years. I would imagine that this special moment hits every kid at some time. A child’s span of time within a lifetime is so small we should try to make it as memorable for them as we can. Because of this we put a lot of our efforts behind the elementary schools. Q: What are some misconceptions about McDonald’s - with it being a corporate giant and all - that aren’t true? Most people think of McDonald’s as some sort of corporate giant that has thousands of corporate restaurants nationwide. In reality, nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Another misconception is that our food is not good for you. This is simply not true. About 80 percent of the McDonald’s national menu items are less than 400 calories. We use premium

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ingredients that you could find at your local grocery store and prepare at home. A balanced diet is key to a healthy lifestyle. Q: What has kept you working for McDonald’s for 34 years? That’s an easy one ... the food is so yummy. More importantly, it’s the people. I really enjoy working with people. Thirty-four years in the industry is not so rare, there are folks that have been at it a lot longer. The industry has a saying that “you’ve got ketchup in your veins.” Well, I guess that’s me. Q: With 140 employees at three locations, how do you try to shrink that world so it’s more on a personal level? I try to remember everyone’s name. It’s a bit tough at times, but I feel that it’s important. Most of us come into this world with nothing more than the skin on our bones, the love of our family and our names. That’s why I try to remember. I feel very fortunate that we have several employees that have been with us since we became McDonald’s owner/operators more than 10 years ago. Q: Have you ever been Ronald McDonald? I think that we all know that there is only one Ronald McDonald. Q: What is Ronald’s focus these days in a constant-changing world? Explain. Ronald actually has the corporate title of CHO - chief happiness officer. He has always been an ambassador of fun for children, families and the brand. He also is a part of our local market programs around anti-bullying, friendship and well-being through activity.

Q: Why did you decide to run for the Lakeland school board when you only had your youngest daughter left in high school? I ran for the school board Zone 3 trustee position because I was asked. The former trustee, Don Soltman, was not seeking another term so I stepped in at that time. With our youngest daughter still attending Lakeland High School, I believed that I had some familiarity of the school system to run for the trustee position. Q: Has your experience on the school board been different than you thought it would be going in? Why or why not? My experience on the school board is not so different than other boards that I’ve served. An asset to me was that I attended a course called Nonprofit Leadership offered by Gonzaga University a few years ago that really emphasized the roles and responsibilities of boards and board members. That has been most valuable. It helps to have a great superintendent, Dr. Mary Ann Ranells, as the lead to the district. We have a very competent staff at the district and a mantra of “The Lakeland Way” that keeps us grounded. Q: Any surprises during your time on the school board and, if so, explain? Most people don’t realize the complexity or understanding of the finances it takes to run a public school system. The money that’s allocated to a school year is determined by the enrollment for that specific school year, but yet the school district must set their budget before they know what the enrollment will be. So it becomes a quasilogical guess. It’s always disheartening to have students come before the board for expulsion hearings. There aren’t many, but it breaks your heart. The teachers and administrators put in more time than I ever would have imagined. I wish that my kids were young again so I could be more involved with their schools. Q: Why did you decide to move to Rathdrum and what has that been like? Our three daughters were still in school so we did some homework on the Internet and found that the Lakeland School District was one of the better

school districts in the area. This became the determining factor. It was a bit of a culture shock for us moving from the coast. We quickly learned that the quality of life that we value is a product of what we do as a community together. The Rathdrum community is full of caring people and organizations that work together to make things happen. There’s a huge “can-do” attitude in this town. A prime example of this has been the Rathdrum Relay for Life that Tamie Phelps was able to make very successful with its inception in 2011. Other examples are the Skate Park on Main Street or most recently KTEC (Kootenai Technical Education Campus). There are so many amazing people that work and live in this community. It’s truly inspirational to be part of that group. Our favorite movie at home is “It’s a Wonderful Life.” We feel a real parallel to this movie with where we live. The parallel is also helped with the abundance of snow that we get. You’ve gotta love it. Q: What is the Rotary club’s current focus? We volunteer in our own communities and abroad to support education, provide clean water, combat hunger, improve health and sanitation and eradicate polio. Locally we grant scholarships to students and support numerous community events. Our local club has been working on upgrading the Lakeland Rotary Soccer Field adjacent to Lakeland Junior High School. Providing scoreboards for the field is the current endeavor. Q: What are some things that most people don’t know about you? I can’t sing and I don’t dance. I’ve tried to play the banjo, but can’t sit still long enough to practice. Reprinted with permission from the Coeur d’Alene Press, November 4, 2012 issue. Tim Skubitz owns three McDonald’s restaurants in the region and is a member of the Lakeland school board and Rathdrum Area Chamber of Commerce.

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Trustee Award of BOardsmanship

ISBA master of

Boardsmanship PRO G R A M

The demands on board members have grown as new federal, state, and local responsibilities are added to the agenda. With budgets tighter and public scrutiny sharper, the stakes are higher. But so are the results accomplished by good board members. You deserve formal recognition for the time and talent you devote to your community’s most important responsibility - public schools. To encourage professional growth of individual school board members, ISBA awards members who invest their time and effort into becoming more informed and more effective school board members.

Trustee Award of

Boardsmanship

There are four levels of recognition; Level I Achievement, Level II Excellence, Level III Mastery and Level IV Distinction. These awards are earned during a 12 month period, October to September, and are recognized during the ISBA annual convention.

Level I Achievement 25-50 points Plus: • Code of Ethics Signed

Master of

Boardsmanship award

Level II Excellence 50-100 points Level I plus: • Self Assessment Completed • Attends 90% of Board meetings

Level III Mastery

honoring

value, expertise, & service to education

20 / Volume 31 / February 2013

100-150 Points Level II plus: • Writes article for SLATE or Voice • Serves on at least one Board Committee

Level IV Distinction 150 + Points Level III plus: • Served on Board for 3+ years • Region Leadership Service

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Trustee Award of BOardsmanship

- A New boardsmanship Pr o g r a m

Point System Conventions ISBA Annual Convention Early Bird Workshop (during ISBA convention) Night Owl Workshop (during ISBA convention) NSBA Annual Convention

50 15 10 50

Workshops & Seminars Summer Leadership Institute Education Law Seminar

25 20

ISBA Regional Meeting Spring Meeting Fall Meeting

15 15

Each year more than 850 public-spirited Idaho community members give freely of their time to participate in one of America’s most honored traditions: local school board governance of public education. These public servants direct expenditures, oversee the work, and set the high standards necessary to prepare students for life in the 21st century - immense responsibilities deserving of respect and recognition. The Idaho School Boards Association is pleased to announce a recognition program that will honor both individual school board members as well as entire boards commitment to public education through proven school board leadership.

LEGISLATIVE Day on the Hill

Individual Board Training By ISBA Approved Presenter 8 Hours Board Training 25 8 Hours Lighthouse Board Training 25 4 Hours Board Training 15 2 Hours Board Training 10 10 Minute Trainers* 5 *1 point per 10 Min. Training with maximum of 5 points. Board Minutes from meeting must be attached for verification.

ISBA Executive Board Meetings February Meeting April Meeting September Meeting

10 10 10

Trustee Award of

Master of

Boardsmanship

Boardsmanship award

Individual board members can earn the Trustee Award of Boardsmanship by reaching one of four levels of recognition; Achievement, Excellence, Mastery, and Distinction.

With the participation of two-thirds or more of board members, the board can earn the Master of Boardsmanship Award, by meeting the minimum criteria outlined for the five standards.

Idaho School Boards Association P.O. Box 9797 • Boise, ID 83707-4797 222 N. 13th Street • Boise, ID 83702 Phone: (208) 854-1476 • Toll-Free: (866) 799-4722 Fax: (208) 854-1480 • www.idsba.org

Other Represent ISBA on committee or in a meeting* 15 *Up to 15 points awarded based on hours served

For any activity not listed, contact a trainer to determine award points.

Training Director Jackie Hopper (208) 880-8662 Jackie@idsba.org

Board Trainer Liz Killpack (208) 589-4037 21 / Volume 31Liz@idsba.org / February 2013

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Standard 1

EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE

The authority of the school board is not found in the single voice of one board member. Boards must speak and act as one voice in all their actions. However, one person can help move an entire board to excellence. Recognizing the importance of collaboration and networking as well as the sharing of knowledge and experience and what it does, can propel boards towards success and distinction. It is on this premise that the Master of Boardsmanship Award is built.

REQUIRED (complete both) • Conduct an annual Board Evaluation • Conduct an annual Superintendent Evaluation

ELECTIVE (complete one or more) • Review and update district vision, mission, values, or strategic plan • Review and sign board code of ethics • Print your district mission on your agenda and refer to it when making decisions • Attend 90% of your regularly scheduled district board meetings • Attend your Region Meeting

Master of

Boardsmanship award • The Master of Boardsmanship Award is granted upon completion of an application process that demonstrates both boardmanship basics and effectiveness of the five standards of school board operations; governance, continuous improvement, advocacy, accountability, and community engagement. STANDARD

REQUIRED

ELECTIVE

1 - EFECTIVE GOVERNANCE

2 - CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

3 - ADVOCACY

N/A

4 - ACCOUNTABILITY

5 - COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

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TOTAL

• This award is earned during a 12 month period, October to September. • Two-thirds or more of board members must meet the minimum criteria outlined for the five standards. (including the superintendent and the clerk) • This award is presented at the ISBSA annual convention.

Standard 2

Standard 4

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

accountability

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Required (complete one or more)

Required

• • • • •

• Complete ISBA Governance Training at least once every three years

ISBA Convention NSBA Convention Charter School Network Convention Summer Leadership Institute In-District Training

Elective (complete one or more) • Attend a seminar, workshop, or presentation on an education related topic • Attend a neighboring school district’s board meeting and compare governance styles

Elective (complete one or more) • Complete the Finance 101 Module • Review and update your district’s Strategic Plan • Review and update at least 1/3 of your policy manual annually • Adopt and monitor annual district budget • Update district website to include AYP and Star Rating Results

• Participate in 15 min. board training session to be held at your own school board meeting at least four times per year

Standard 5

• Read an education related book or article and submit a synopsis on the ISBA blog

community engagement

• Participate in an education related webinar

Required

Standard 3

• Establish or review district vision, mission, values, and goals

advocacy

Elective (complete one or more)

Required (complete two or more) • Attend ISBA Day on the Hill • As a board, conduct a public hearing

• Meet with Mayor, City Council, County Commissioners to “tell your story” • Present at Lions/Rotary/Kiwanis/Senior Citizens/Elks to “tell your story”

• Testify to the legislature

• Visit school or school activity as a board, invite the media to attend

• Meet or call and visit with your local legislator about legislation impacting your district

• Sit on school committees

• Meet with city government officials • Submit an article to the SLATE or local paper

• Attend PTA, PTO, Education Foundation meeting • Share student success stories via social media • Submit Student Success to ISBA • Reward and/or recognize staff and students in Board Meetings

Each year more than 850 public-spirited Idaho community members give freely of their time 23to/ participate in 2013 Volume 31 / February one of America’s most honored traditions: local school board governance of public education.

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24 01

isba 70 annual convention th

ISBA Incoming President, Anne Ritter

ISBA Board Trainer, Liz Killpack

Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Leary Middle School (Twin Falls SD) Chantaire group performed

Mike Knittel (Emmett SD) testifies during Business Session

Hutchison Smith Architects visits with attendees during Exhibit Show

Susan Fletcher (American Falls SD) testifies during Business Session

Mountain View High School (Meridian SD) Premier Jazz group performed

Skyward visits with an attendee during the Exhibit Show

Attendees from the Blaine County SD

Thanks to everyone who was able to attend the 70th ISBA Annual Convention in Boise in November. It was great to see all of you. We are pleased with the turnout and the variety of workshops and keynote speakers we were able to provide. We hope you enjoy these photographs that capture much of the Convention experience.

24 / Volume 31 / February 2013

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convention review 04

NSBA President, Ed Massey

Gail Baer (Salmon SD) testifies during Business Session

University of Idaho exhibiting at Convention

Boise School District Trustee, Maria Greeley testifies during Business Session

School Spirit Day

Attendees at the Convention

2012 Insurance Dividend Check from Moreton & Company

ISBA Past Presidents in Attendance at 70th Annual Convention

Anne Ritter presenting Dallas Clinger with his 20 Years of Service plaque

A very big thank you to Vern Newby, former Trustee of the Coeur d’Alene School District and ISBA Past President, for taking photographs of ISBA events. We appreciate Vern’s talent and the time he takes to capture ISBA’s events in photos. 25 / Volume 31 / February 2013

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Newly Elected Representatives

2012 Awards Banquet

During the Region Meetings held at the Convention, several regions elected new region representatives. The newly elected regional representatives include:

The following individuals were recognized during ISBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2012 Annual Convention. ISBA congratulates these award winners. Each recipient went above and beyond to make contributions that will improve public education in Idaho. Congratulations!

Region 1 Vice Chair Region 2 Vice Chair Region 4 Chair Region 4 Vice Chair Region 5 Chair Region 5 Vice Chair

Archie McGregor Rodney Krogh Dane Higdem Lisa Knudson Janie Gebhardt James Stoor

St. Maries SD #041 Kamiah SD #304 Kimberly SD #414 Castleford SD #417 Pocatello SD #025 Soda Springs Jt. SD #150

Newly Elected Officers President President-Elect Vice President Immediate Past President

Anne Ritter Todd Wells David Andersen Dallas Clinger

Meridian Jt. SD #002 Castleford Jt. SD #417 Oneida County SD #351 American Falls Jt. SD #381

We encourage you to stay in close contact with your region representatives. They are your voice on the ISBA Executive Board. In order for them to represent you well, it is important that they know your needs and concerns.

20 Years of Service Dallas Clinger Susan Fletcher Deb Klatt William Davis

American Falls Jt. SD #381 American Falls Jt. SD #381 Kendrick Jt. SD #283 Lewiston Independent SD #340

Citizenship Award Michelle George Orofino Jt. SD #171 Ed Katz Boundary Co. SD #101 Nikki Doll Challis Jt. SD #181 Candice Larsen Mackay Jt. SD #182 Melody Croft St. Maries Jt. SD #041 Award of Merit Tammy Stevenson Deb Foster John Menter Dallas Clinger

Certified Staff Certified Staff Classified Staff Classified Staff Community Member

Minidoka County Jt. SD #331 South Lemhi SD #292 Troy SD #287 American Falls Jt. SD #381 21

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Lee Popplewell, 95 years old, known to be the oldest retired school board member. Served 12 years on Buhl SD Board and 20+ years as an Elementary School Principal. Dallas Clinger presenting St. Maries School Board

20 with the Board Master of Boardsmanship Award 21

ISBA Past Presidents in attendance at ISBA Convention Dallas Clinger presenting John

22 Menter with Award of Merit

Master of Boardsmanship Award Districts

District Board Award: St. Maries SD #041

Master of Boardsmanship Award Individuals David Andersen Tracie Anderson Nancy Arnold Christine Ashmead Lori Bennett David Brinkman Larry Brown Dallas Clinger Brian Duncan Dianne Eaton Larry Etherington Susan Fletcher Margaret Gannon Jason Gibbons Nancy Gregory Steve Guthrie Erin Haight-Mortensen Wendy Horman Sandy Kennelly Donny Masterson Archie McGregor John Menter Janet Orndorff Lucinda Rogers Terri Seymour J. Lea Smith Melanie Staples Lisa Willie Annette Winchester Michelle Zettel

Oneida County SD #351 Gooding Jt. SD #231 Teton SD #401 St. Maries SD #041 Bruneau-Grand View Jt. SD #365 Boundary County SD #101 Lakeland Jt. SD #272 American Falls SD #381 Minidoka Jt. SD #331 Madison SD #321 Oneida County SD #351 American Falls SD #381 St. Maries SD #041 Minidoka Jt. SD #331 Boise Independent SD #001 Blaine County SD #061 Clark County SD #161 Bonneville Jt. SD #093 St. Maries SD #041 St. Maries SD #041 St. Maries SD #041 Troy SD #287 Boise Independent SD #001 Gooding Jt. SDt #231 Coeur dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Alene SD #271 Filer SD #413 Boundary County SD #101 Oneida County SD #351 Bonneville Jt. SD #093 Challis Jt. SD #181

27 / Volume 31 / February 2013

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28 23

isba Scholarship Trust Auction 23 26

ISBA Past President, Bertine Paynter

Idaho FFA President, Tanner Beymer

24 Idaho FFA President, Tanner Beymer

ISBA Past Presidents, Armand Eckert & Alden Neal

ISBA Past President, Alden Neal

ISBA Past Presidents, David Hawk, Alden Neal, and Idaho FFA Secretary Lauren Clark

Over $10,100 Raised! The ISBA Scholarship Trust would like to thank all sponsors, districts, and individuals who participated in this year’s auction. Your benevolent actions produced over $10,100 to be used for scholarships! ISBA applauds your intense commitment and dedication to the children attending Idaho’s schools and appreciate the fervor shown in promoting the long-term potential of their educational advancement.

Thank You to Our Sponsors

28 / Volume 31 / February 2013

A special acknowledgment is extended to our auctioneer and ISBA Past President, Alden Neal, and his lovely wife, Loraine, for the “motivating enthusiasm” which drives the success of the Scholarship Auction. ISBA would like to express our gratitude to the Idaho Dairy Council for furnishing the refreshments enjoyed during the auction.

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During the Business Session at the 70th Annual Convention, trustees voted on the 2013 Resolutions. Resolutions adopted by the membership serve as the agenda for the 2013 Legislative session. According to the ISBA Bylaws, Resolutions adopted by the membership are in effect for two years unless otherwise acted upon. The full text of the 2012 and 2013 Resolutions may be found on the ISBA website.

NO.

2013 RESOLUTIONS

AYES

NAYS

K-12 PUBLIC EDUCATION AS AN INVESTMENT The Idaho School Boards Association values K-12 public education as an investment in the youth of the State of Idaho and the economy of the State of Idaho. The Idaho School Boards Association will work with the Idaho Legislature and elected officials to maximize State revenue for funding Idaho’s public schools and oppose any further erosion of Idaho’s tax structure, which supports and funds public education, detrimental to the needed investment in the youth of the State.

3410

219

IDAHO CHARTER SCHOOL OVERSIGHT Charter school accountability has been an important component of the charter education movement and a significant amount of time and resources are expended by authorizers to oversee the many operational aspects of the charter schools they authorize. The Idaho School Boards Association will work to develop a mandatory framework for the annual programmatic and fiscal audit required by Idaho Code, a plan for the periodic renewal of each charter at least every five (5) years, and a mechanism of support to provide resources to fund the obligations of authorizers.

2974

590

COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AND TEACHER CONTRACTS School board members are statutorily responsible for the operations of their local districts including collective bargaining and issuing teachers’ contracts. The Idaho School Boards Association will work to give school boards the flexibility and authority they need to effectively govern their school districts in relationship to collective bargaining and teacher contracts.

2714

919

IDLA FUNDING SUPPORT Because the Idaho Digital Learning Academy provides Idaho school districts and Idaho students with equity, opportunity, and access to affordable, quality, educational, innovative options to allow Idaho districts to meet Idaho standards and provide for advanced academic opportunities, the Idaho School Boards Association will support funding for the Idaho Digital Learning Academy to ensure a continuation of these important services.

3416

208

PERSI RETIREMENT RULE 550 APPLICATION TO A 4-DAY WORK WEEK The Idaho School Boards Association will work with the Directors of PERSI to develop an equitable adjustment formula that credits retiring members 100% for unused sick leave accumulated regardless of whether or not that accumulation took place in 5-day or a 4-day work week schedule.

3411

233

SUPPLEMENTAL LEVIES Districts are being forced to rely more heavily on supplemental levies for day to day operating expenses. The Idaho School Boards Association will craft and support legislation to amend Section 33802, Idaho Code to increase the maximum length of a supplemental levy from two years to three years.

3025

609

MORE TIME FOR PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Section 33-512(1)(c)(i), Idaho Code currently allows for local school boards to reduce annual instructional hours by up to a total of twenty-two (22) hours for staff development. However, the challenges of mandated classroom integration of technology have created an increased demand for professional development and collaboration. It would be a benefit to students, teachers, and administrators to allow local school boards to increase the allowable hours from twenty-two (22) to seventy-two (72) to accommodate more staff development activities.

602

3033

NON-CERTIFICATED PERSONNEL GRIEVANCE The term “unfair treatment” as found in Section 33-517, Idaho Code, the grievance statute for classified employees, is undefined and subjective, exposing school districts to potential grievances and costs for a near unlimited number of personnel complaints. The Idaho School Boards Association supports legislation that would modify and amend Idaho Code 33-517 such that a grievance by a non-certificated employee apply only to an alleged violation of written board approved policy and procedure and not include any allegation of “unfair treatment”, salary, transfer, or placement, termination at any stage of employment, or any other matter and that the court appellate rights relating to this grievance be eliminated entirely or amended such that the ultimate decisions relating to budgetary and personnel matters are left to local school board discretion.

3211

423

In Support of an Inclusive Process of Education Reform in Idaho Support a process of forming a nonpartisan coalition or task force headed by impartial directors that will bring representatives of all stakeholders (parents, educators, students, business, and civic leaders, and all interested citizens) together from across the State for the purpose of forming a recommendation to the Legislature for education reform in the State of Idaho.

1782

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business session report 29 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE ISBA is pleased to partner with USBAFlex to offer districts the opportunity to provide an additional very low-cost employee benefit. USBAFlex is also exclusively endorsed by the National School Boards Association for providing flexible spending arrangements through State Associations.

What is USBAFlex? USBAFlex was created in response to requests by educational institutions for three major customized services:

Introducing USBAFlex

30 / Volume 31 / February 2013

A tax-free product beneficial to both employee and employer.

A cost-effective program compatible with a restricted educational budget.

An experienced and individualized customer service group. Nearly three decades of experience has allowed us to distill employee benefit administration down to its simplest form.

inciis aboratem quia doluptaturia eictis none eat ulluptatiat veliaepelest audae pelProvide? What does USBAFlex

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USBAFlex provides customized benefit administration to school districts nationwide. We specialize in products that increase both district and employee profits through pre-tax initiatives. Our products and services include:

Flexible Spending Arrangements

Dependent Care Assistance Program

A Health Flexible Spending Arrangement allows an employee to pay for qualified medical, dental, and vision expenses with pre-tax dollars. The benefit of paying for your expenses before taxes, is that it will reduce your taxable income. Therefore, you pay less federal, state, medicare and social security taxes, which in turn increases the employees take home pay.

The Dependent Care Assistance Program is also a Flexible Spending Arrangement (FSA). The funds set aside in this account can provide additional tax savings for expenses incurred for the daycare of a child (under the age of 13) or the care of a tax dependent that is incapable of self-care. The expenses must enable the employee and spouse to be gainfully employed. Those amounts paid for food, lodging, clothing, and education generally won’t qualify for reimbursement under this Plan.

Health Savings Account

Transportation

Limited Flex

Health Savings Accounts are individual savings accounts that you can use to pay for qualified health care costs tax free. An HSA provides you with a triple tax benefit. The money goes into the account tax free, comes out tax free and earns interest tax free. Plus, any unused funds rollover from year to year and continue to earn interest tax-free.

A Qualified Transportation Plan (Section 132) allows employers to offer transportation fringe benefits to employees on a tax free basis. This will allow employees to be reimbursed for qualified parking, transit passes, and transportation in a commuter highway vehicle as long as the travel is between the employee’s residence and place of employment.

A Limited-Purpose Health FSA has all the same tax benefits of a general purpose FSA, however; this account is exclusively limited to dental, vision, and preventative care expenses, as determined by the employer. These accounts are generally used in conjunction with a Health Savings Account to maximize the additional tax benefit of qualified medical expenses and to allow funds to grow in the HSA plan for future retirement expenses.

employer newsletter online. This information is available 24/7 and if you should have any questions you can also access a persona customer service representative Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm. But most important is that USBAFlex is your experienced partner who will guide you through administering your health care plan in a fast, and money saving process!

“out of pocket expenses.” These unreimbursed health expenses can be taken out of your paycheck on a pre-tax basis. Saving participants sometimes hundreds of dollars each year! Most taxpayers cannot take advantage of the Medical and Dental tax deduction when filing their returns. The reason is the IRS requires that individuals must have medical and dental expenses that exceed over 7.5% of their adjusted gross income! This is why flexible spending accounts are so valuable. See some of the qualified health expenses that can be reimbursed under this plan. You might be surprised on what can be deducted and how quickly they add up, even in for a “Healthy Family.” For a complete list check with your tax advisor or look on the IRS Web page at http://www.irs.gov/ pub/irs-pdf/p502.dp

If we want to offer this benefit to our employees, how does this affect our district? Your district will save payroll taxes on every dollar your employees put through your pre-tax plans. As your employees contribute they will be able to take home more money and your company will save- it’s a win-win situation for your employee and for you! USBAFlex will provide your employees with simple to understand communication materials that have been proven to work. Accessing information is made easy through our online secure web portal. An employer can access all employer reports, plan documents, employee information materials and

What is a Health Flexible Spending Account? Although your district offers a very good benefits package, there are always expenses that are medically necessary but not covered by a Health or Dental plan. Common examples are office and prescriptions co pays, deductibles and coinsurance expenses also known as

31 / Volume 31 / February 2013

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Testimonials As a Program Administrator: I use the USBAFlex program for my health flexible spending, but I am also the administrator for the ISBA employee’s plan. The website is easy to use and I can easily access reports needed for payroll. Plus, anytime I have a question, USBA Flex responds to my email or phone call immediately. They have been great to work with! Misty Jones Idaho School Boards Association

Jessica Harrison Idaho School Boards Association

As an Employee: For over a year, I have used the USBAFlex program for my health flexible spending. I can either use my USBAFlex card to purchase prescriptions or pay my doctor co-payments. Or, I can submit my claim forms through their convenient website and I receive a refund check. The claim reimbursement program is very userfriendly and quick. Plus, I receive the reimbursement check fast! By using the USBAFlex program, I have saved a lot of money each year since the expenses are taken out of my paycheck pre-taxed.

What is a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account? Although this benefit can be used for any dependent that needs assistance, most people associate this benefit with day care expenses. The allowable tax expense under this benefit is higher than an individual filing on personal taxes. The IRS maximum amount allowed to be deducted under this plan is $5,000 for a family or if a couple filing separately $2,500. Equally important, you don’t have to wait until the end of the year to get your tax break. Under this program you get the tax break every time you get paid. However, you can only be reimbursed for the amount that has been deducted from your paycheck.

I’d like to know more, who should I contact?

Paula Summers 860 East 9085 South Sandy, UT 84094 Toll-Free: Email: Web:

877.872.2125 info@usbaflex.com usbaflex.com

Live chat available online

TAKE HOME MORE PAY

WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH A LITTLE EXTRA EACH MONTH?

An FSA through USBAflex helps you lower your taxable income by setting aside pretax dollars to pay for qualified Medical and Dependent Care expenses.

FIND OUT MORE ONLINE www.usbaflex.com

32 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

Our Valued ISBA Business Partners 00 ISBA’s Business Partners offer a variety of services and products that can assist Idaho’s public schools in cutting expenditures and finding cost-effective options.

DIAMOND BUSINESS PARTNERS

BRONZE BUSINESS PARTNERS

00 Idaho Dairy Council A non-profit nutrition education organization providing science based materials to health care providers, schools, and consumers throughout the State of Idaho.

00 seattle-northwest securities corporation SNW is an investment bank and broker-dealer specializing in taxexempt bond underwriting and sales. SNW provides financing solutions custom tailored to their clients’ capital financial needs. With a Boise-based office, no other firm can match their experience and knowledge related to the political, economic, and financial issues impacting Idaho school district bond financing.

Crystal Wilson (208) 327-7050 cjwilson@idahodairycouncil.org | www.idahodairycouncil.org 00 moreton & company Moreton & Company provides property and liability insurance as well as risk management services to member districts through the ISBA endorsed insurance plan. Most recently, Moreton & Company launched a group auto and homeowner insurance program that is available to district employees as well as school board trustees. Allan Ranstrom (208) 321-9300 allan@moreton.com | www.moreton.com 00 zions bank A leader in financing school district projects at the lowest overall cost. Since 1994 Zions has assisted Idaho districts in financing over 60 projects totaling over $200 million. Cameron Arial (208) 344-9522 cameron.arial@zionsbank.com | www.zionsbank.com 00 hutchison smith architects Hutchison Smith Architects is a full service architectural firm that has been providing responsive, creative, value-driven building solutions for more than 15 years. HSA specializes in educational facility design having worked with over 20 school districts and completed over 900 successful education projects. We will assist you on a wide array of project types, from bond passage for new buildings and remodels to systems upgrades, historic renovations, and repair and maintenance work. Each project, no matter how large or small, is important to us. We offer you the commitment to give each project the attention that you expect and deserve.

Eric Heringer (208) 344-8577 eheringer@snwsc.com | www.seattlenorthwest.com

SILVER BUSINESS PARTNERS 00 hummel architects pllc Established in Boise in 1896, Hummel Architects PLLC is a general practice architectural firm whose history touches nearly every Idaho community. Over the decades Hummel has built a solid reputation on the design of educational, institutional, civic, industrial, governmental, retail, office, and corporate structures. Aubry Briggs (208) 343-7523 abriggs@hummelarch.com | www.hummelarch.com

ISBA

DIAMOND BUS INE S S PART NE R

I S BA

SILVER

BU S I N ES S P A RT N ER

ISBA

BRONZE

BU S I N E S S PARTNER

Look for these Business Partner logos in SLATE articles and advertisements.

Angelia Healy (208) 338-1212 ahealy@hsaarchitects.com | www.hsaarchitects.com

33 / Volume 31 / February 2013

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Our Valued ISBA Business Affiliates 00 ISBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Business Affiliates offer a variety of services and products that can assist Idahoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s public schools in cutting costs and finding cost-effective options. 00 boarddocs egovernance solutions

00 buyboard

isba insurance program Allan Ranstrom allan@moreton.com (800) 341-6789

Michael E. Hanahan mhanahan@boarddocs.com (800) 407-0141

Jackie Hopper jackie@idsba.org (866) 799-4722

00 solveras payment solutions

00 boardbook

00 applitrack (by general asp)

Check Recovery Service

Software for Organizing Meeting Material

Applicant Tracking & Recruiting Software

Mike Elder mike.elder@boardbook.org (888) 587-2665 Ext. 6413

Dr. Fred Schroeder fred@generalasp.com (866) 667-1277

00 moreton & company

Rodger Regele rodger.wa@comcast.net (888) 726-0015

00 usba flex employee flexible spending provider Paula Summers psummers@usba.cc (801) 878-0671

0 0

Phone: (208) 854-1476 Toll-Free: (866) 799-4722

online purchasing cooperative

0 0

Fax: (208) 854-1480 Web: www.idsba.org

0 Email: misty@idsba.org

Contact these Business Partners or Affiliates to find out how they can assist your school district. Contact Misty Jones at the ISBA Office for more information.

OF THE QUARTER

34 / Volume 31 / February 2013

SLATE

35 / Volume 31 / February 2013

Idaho School Boards Association P.O. 36 Box 9797 • Boise, ID 83707-4797 Ph: (208) 854-1476 • Fax: (208) 854-1480

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage PAID Boise, ID Permit No. 136

Ever Wonder What You Can Do With BoardDocs? ISBA BoardDocs web applications eliminate paper and streamline the processes used to manage board packets, access information and conduct meetings. You’ll save money, time and improve your boards’ effectiveness, on a massive scale. If your decisions affect the lives of others, call us. We’ll help you do what you do best, even better.

It’s her future. It’s your choice.

BoardDocs.com

800. 407.0141