MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF ORONO INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 278 HELD ON JUNE 14, 2021

MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF ORONO
                   INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 278
                          HELD ON JUNE 14, 2021

Present:          Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Karen Orcutt, Martha Van de Ven, Laura Wallander, Ali Howe,
                  John Morstad, Sarah Borchers

Absent:            None

The Regular Meeting of the Board of Education of Orono Independent School District No. 278 was held on
Monday, June 14, 2021 and called to order by Board Chair, Bob Tunheim, at 7:01 PM.

Member Mike Bash introduced the Consent Agenda and moved its approval.

           Approved Minutes from the Regular Meeting held May 10, 2021
           Approved the appointment Brian Kafura, full-time Seventh Grade Social Studies Teacher at Orono
           Middle School, effective August 26, 2021
           Approved the appointment of Charlie Bohl, full-time Social Studies Teacher at Orono High School,
           effective August 26, 2021
           Approved the appointment of Kimberly Jessen, fut I-time First Grade Teacher at Orono Schumann
           Elementary School, effective August 26, 2021
           Approved the appointment of Chelsea Palmer, full-time First Grade Long-Term Substitute at Orono
           Schumann Elementary School, effective August 30, 2021 through June 10, 2022
           Approved the appointment of Jessica Butcher, full-time School Psychologist Long-Term Substitute
           at Orono Schumann Elementary School and Orono Intermediate School, effective August 30, 2021
           through June 10, 2022
           Approved the appointment of Danielle Malin, full-time Mathematics Long-Term Substitute Teacher
           at Orono High School, effective August 26, 2021 through June 10, 2022
           Approved the change of assignment of Mathew Wistrom, full-time Special Education Paraeducator
           at Orono High School, to Short-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher at Orono High School,
           effective April 22, 2021 through June 9, 2021
           Approved the change of assignment of Joseph Suchomel, full-time German Teacher at Orono High
           School to 0.8 FTE German Teacher at Orono High School, effective August 30, 2021
           Approved the change of assignment of William Rosati, full-time Seventh Grade Social Studies
           Teacher at Orono Middle School, to full-time Long-Term Substitute Special Education Teacher at
           Orono Middle School, effective October 11, 2021 through December 17, 2021
           Approved the leave of absence for Lindsey Kesanen, full-time First Grade Teacher at Orono
           Schumann Elementary School, effective August 30, 2021 to June 10, 2022
           Approved the leave of absence for Kendall Johnson, full-time Special Education Teacher at Orono
           Middle School, effective October 11, 2021 to December 1 7, 2021
           Approved the leave of absence for Brittany Oppen, full-time Special Education Teacher at Orono
           Schumann Elementary School, effective September 10, 2021 to December 3, 2021
           Approved the leave of absence for Kristina Mochinski, job share part-time Second Grade Teacher at
           Orono Schumann Elementary School, effective August 30, 2021 to November 19, 2021
           Approved the leave of absence for Rebecca Townsend, full-time Special Education Teacher at
           Orono Intermediate School, effective September 27, 2021 to January 21, 2022
            Approved the resignation of Alyssa Rademacher, full-time Mental Health and Behavior Support
            Specialist at Orono Intermediate School and Orono Schumann Elementary School, effective June 10,
           2021
           Approved the change of assignment of Anna Williams, full-time Special Education Paraeducator at
           Orono Intermediate School, to full-time Special Education Paraeducator at Orono High School,
           effective September 1, 2021
           Approved the change of assignment of Rebecca Schweitzer, full-time Custodian at Orono Discovery
            Center, to full-time Custodian at Orono Intermediate School, effective June 1, 2021
            Approved the leave of absence of Mathew Wistrom, full-time Classroom Paraeducator at Orono
           High School, effective April 22, 2021 through June 9, 2021

Approved the leave of absence of Mckenzie Randall, full-time Media Clerk at Orono Schumann
       Elementary School and Orono Intermediate School, effective November 8, 2021 through February
       22, 2022
       Approved the resignation of Martha Velez, full-time Custodian at Orono Intermediate School,
       effective May 11, 2021
       Approved the resignation due to retirement of Maria Francis, full-time Media Clerk at Orono Middle
       School, effective June I 0, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Alex Anhorn, as Seasonal Grounds Worker at Orono Public Schools,
       effective June 11, 2021 through August 15, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Luke Erickson, as Seasonal Grounds Worker at Orono Public Schools,
       effective June 11, 2021 through August 15, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Nicholas Hartmann, as Seasonal Grounds Worker at Orono Public
       Schools, effective June 11, 2021 through August 15, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Jacob Goman, as Seasonal Grounds Worker at Orono Public Schools,
       effective June 11, 2021 through August 15, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Nicholas Ruhland, as Seasonal Grounds Worker at Orono Public
       Schools, May 17, 2021 through May 28, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Joel Mellor, as full-time Technology Support Specialist at Orono
       Public Schools, effective June 21, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Leah Hicks, as Extended School Year Speech Language Pathologist at
       Orono Public Schools, effective June 21, 2021 through July 15, 2021
       Approved the appointment of Maia Larson, as Extended School Year Special Education
       Paraeducator at Orono Public Schools, effective June 21, 2021 through July 15, 2021
       Approved the resignation of Hilary Laing, full-time Lead Teacher at Orono Discovery Center,
       effective June 11, 2021
       Accepted Donations Totaling: $8,953.40
       Approved electronic fund transfers for April and May of 2021
       Approved Treasurer's Report and Budget Reports for April and May of 2021
       Designated Dr. Kristine Flesher, incoming Superintendent as the 'Identified Official with Authority'
       to authorize access by local education agency users to the Minnesota Department of Education
       (MDE) secure websites
       Approved requests to keep student activity accounts open for German and Spanish Clubs
       Approved Bill Vouchers: 310504-310724, 1420-1436, EP Register: 901152-901205,
       EFT Vouchers: 193-194, 6279-6283 and Capitol One: 51226-51280

The motion for the approval of the Consent Agenda was duly seconded by Member Martha Van de Ven.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Sarah
Borchers, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander, Martha Van de Ven

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said Consent Agenda was declared duly approved.

5.- Superintendent's Report on Excellence

Dr. Orcutt began her report by recognizing Orono Schools Controller, Lauren Syrup, for successfully
completing the MASBO Voluntary Certification Program. The program is designed to offer practical
information to assist school business professionals in excelling in their field and helps to ensure a base of
knowledge for all participants. Lauren also completed the MASBO Leadership Academy in May of 2021.
Dr. Orcutt thanked Lauren for going above and beyond in her role.

Next, Dr. Orcutt reported that Boys Tennis finished their season third in state. She shared that Mathias Maule
also finished third in the Boys Individual Tennis state tournament. Additionally, Dr. Orcutt recognized
Orono Girls Golf state qualifiers--Camille Kuznik and Ava Hanneman-as well as Orono Boys Track and
Field state qualifier. Congratulations and good luck to all our incredible athletes.

Finally, Dr. Orcutt shared that last week, Orono was thrilled to hold the Class of 2021 Commencement
ceremony in Pesonen Stadium. In spite of the heat, it was a joyful occasion for all who attended. The easing
of COVTD restrictions allowed our 230 graduates to invite an unlimited number of family and friends. Dr.
Orcutt thanked Orono High School staff (specifically Principal Amy Steiner), student speakers, band, and
choir for organizing such a beautiful event that upheld many honored traditions. She also recognized
members of the Spartan Parent Association who organized the colorful photo stations in the Pavilion.

6.- Board Members Questions and Comments

7.- Community Members Questions and Comments

Board Chair Bob Tunheim read and addressed several comments and questions submitted by members of the
community.

8.- Old Business
8. A- Other Old Business as Necessary

No other old business was brought forward.

9. - New Business
9. A Contract Signing Authority

Member Sarah Borchers motioned and Martha Van de Ven seconded that the Board of Education approve
Kristine Flesher, incoming Superintendent to lease, purchase, and contract for goods and services within the
budget pursuant to MN Statute 123B.52 subd. 2 effective July I, 2021, and that Karen Orcutt, outgoing
Superintendent's right to the same be revoked effective June 30, 2021.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Sarah Borchers,
Martha Van de Ven, Mike Bash, Laura Wallander, Ali Howe

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said motion was declared duly approved.

9. B Resolution Non-Renewing Paraprofessional Positions

Board Chair Bob Tunheim shared with the Board that Community Education has determined that it is
necessary to non-renew the contracts of two paraprofessional staff members.

Member Laura Wallander introduced the following Resolution and moved its adoption:

                RESOLUTION NON-RENEWING PARAPROFESSIONAL POSITIONS

WHEREAS, Community Education has determined that it is necessary to non-renew the contracts of two
paraprofessional staff members.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of Independent School District No. 278 as
follows:

1.       The School Board hereby declines to renew or offer employment for the 2021-2022 school year to
the following paraprofessional employees:

       Dawn Prokop-Smiley
       Courtney McDonald

2.    As a result of this Resolution, the District's employment relationship with the above-named staff
members will terminate effective June 15, 2021.

3.      The Superintendent, or a designee, is directed to send the affected staff members a copy of this
Resolution and written notice of non-renewal.

The motion for the adoption of this Resolution was duly seconded by Member Ali Howe and upon vote
being taken, the following voted in favor of this Resolution: Bob Tunheim, Sarah Borchers, Mike Bash,
Martha Van de Ven, Laura Wallander, Ali Howe

And the following voted against this Resolution: None

Based upon the vote, this Resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.

9. C- Budget Approvals

John Morstad, Director of Business Services, presented the 2020-2021 Revised Budget to the Board.

Member Mike Bash motioned to approve the Revised Budget for the 2020-2021 school year.

The motion for the approval of the Revised Budget for the 2020-2021 school year was duly seconded by
Member Martha Van de Ven.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Sarah
Borchers, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander, Martha Van de Ven

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and approved.

John Morstad, Director of Business Services, also presented the Preliminary Budget for the 2021-2022
school year.

Member Mike Bash motioned to approve the Preliminary Budget for the 2021-2022 school year.

The motion for the approval of the Preliminary Budget for 2021-2022 school year was duly seconded by
Member Sarah Borchers.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Sarah
Borchers, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander, Martha Van de Ven

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and approved.

Due to technical difficulties, Chair Bob Tunheim requested that agenda item 9. E- Safe Return to In-Person
Learning Plan take the place of agenda item 9. D Resolution providing that School Board General
Elections held after 2019 be held in the Even-Numbered Years; Establishing a Transition Plan, with item
9. D to follow.

9. D- Safe Return to In-Person Learning Plan

Dr. Karen Orcutt, Superintendent and Dr. Aaron Ruhland, Director of Learning and Accountability reported to
the School Board on the preliminary Safe Return to In-Person Learning Plan for the upcoming school year, as
well as a timeline examining the past year.

Member Martha Van de Ven motioned to approve the Safe Return to In-Person Leaming Plan as presented.

The motion to approve the Safe Return to In-Person Learning Plan as presented was seconded by Member Ali
Howe.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Sarah Borchers, Mike
Bash, Martha Van de Ven, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.

9. E Resolution Providing that School Board General Elections Held after 2019 Shall be Held in the Even-
Numbered Years; Establishing a Transition Plan

Member Mike Bash shared with the Board a presentation regarding moving the school board election cycle to
even-numbered years instead of odd-numbered years.

Member Mike Bash introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption:

                             RESOLUTION PROVIDING THAT
                   SCHOOL BOARD GENERAL ELECTIONS HELD AFTER 2019
                      SHALL BE HELD IN THE EVEN-NUMBERED YEARS;
                           ESTABLISHING A TRANSITION PLAN

WHEREAS, the school board has previously determined that the school district should hold its general
election in November of the odd-numbered year in 1995 and thereafter; and

WHEREAS, the school board now believes that voter participation would be greater and election
administration easier and less costly if school district general elections were held in conjunction with state
general elections in November of the even-numbered year; and

WHEREAS, Laws 1994, Chapter 646, Section 26, Subdivision 1, provides that a political subdivision that
initially chooses odd-numbered year elections and later determines to change to even-numbered year
elections may do so by the adoption of a new resolution that contains an orderly plan for the transition;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE TT ENACTED by the school board of Independent School District No. 278, State
of Minnesota, as follows:

         I. School board general elections held after 2019 in Independent School District No.278 shall be
held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November of the even-numbered year.

        2. The terms of office of school board members that would otherwise expire on the first Monday of
January, 2022 if elections were held in the odd-numbered year (2021) shall be extended to expire on the first
Monday in January, 2023. The terms of office of school board members that would otherwise expire on the
first Monday of January, 2024 if elections were held in the odd-numbered year (2023) shall be extended to
expire on the first Monday in January, 2025.

3. The school board shall notify the county auditor of each county in which the school district is
located in whole or in part of its determination to hold its general election in November of the even-
numbered year in 2022 and thereafter.

The motion for the adoption of the foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Member Sarah_Borchers, and
upon a vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Sarah Borchers, Mike
Bash, Martha Van de Ven, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander

and the following voted against the same: None

whereupon said resolution was declared duly passed and adopted.

9. F- Other New Business as Necessary

No other New Business was brought forward.

Adjournment to Closed Session

Member Sarah Borchers motioned to adjourn the School Board Meeting to a Closed Session pursuant to
Minnesota Statutes, Section l 3D.05, subdivision 3(a), to evaluate the performance of School District
Personnel.

The motion to adjourn the School Board Meeting to a Closed Session pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section
L3D.05, subdivision 3(b) to evaluate the performance of School District Personnel was duly seconded by
Member Ali Howe.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Sarah
Borchers, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander, Martha Van de Ven

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said motion was declared duly passed and the meeting was adjourned to a Closed Session at 8:38
PM.

Reconvene to Open Session

The Regular School Board meeting reconvened to Open Session at 9: 10 PM.

Possible Action Based on the Topic Discussed in Closed Executive Session

Board Chair Bob Tunheim stated that the consensus of the Board was that they are pleased with the job
performance of the Superintendent and called for a motion to award the Superintendent the meximum
performance pay allowed in her contract.

Member Sarah Borchers motioned to award the Superintendent the maximum performance pay that her
contract allows.

The motion to award the Superintendent that maximum performance pay that her contract allows was
seconded by Member Martha Van de Ven.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Sarah
Borchers, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander, Martha Van de Ven
And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said motion was declared duly passed.

Adjournment

The next Regular School Board Meeting will be held on Monday, August 23, 2021, at 7:00 PM.

Member Martha Van de Ven motioned to adjourn the Regular School Board Meeting.

The motion to adjourn the Regular School Board meeting was seconded by Mike Bash.

And upon vote being taken thereon, the following voted in favor thereof: Bob Tunheim, Mike Bash, Sarah
Borchers, Ali Howe, Laura Wallander, Martha Van de Ven

And the following voted against the same: None

Whereupon said motion was declared duly passed, and the meeting was adjourned at 9: 12 PM.

Bob Tunheim, Chair

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