The Perry School Board met in regular session Monday.
At the meeting, six of the sixteen new teachers introduced themselves to the Board.
Perry City Administrator Sven Peterson talked to the Board about the upcoming tax abatement program that will be implemented this fall. He says housing has been a topic of discussion throughout the community, including options for teachers and he feels this will help provide more options for places to live. Peterson shared that construction on three new homes will begin yet this fall.
Following approval of the consent agenda, the Board heard an insurance policy update from Barry Bengston with EMC Insurance. The premium renewal for the upcoming school year is $13,000 less than the year before, which Bengston says he hasn’t been able to present for several years. He says this is thanks in part to good work by the district and more competition in the school insurance market.
Learning Supports Director Laura Skeel then shared the English Learners Corrective Action plan with the Board. She outlined some new standards that the state is requiring and goals for the plan.
Kevin Vidergar, the Director of Learning Supports then reviewed the “Back to School” staff workshop and in-serve plans. New staff orientation is taking place this week and all staff will begin in-service workshops on the 22nd with classes starting Wednesday, August 24th.
Superintendent Lynn Ubben then shared their thoughts on the recent School Administrators of Iowa conference she and District principals attended. Ubben says a lot of the SAI legislative priorities mirror what Perry has selected as priorities.
Board policy revisions were then approved as presented as was a School Budget Review Committee allowable growth request for any special education deficits.
The Board then approved Loffredo Produce as the fruit and vegetable grant supplier, personnel changes as presented and a SkillsUSA trip to Washington D.C.
Finally, Board President Kyle Baxter mentioned that he, administrators and teachers met with Shive-Hattery in regards to the proposed industrial technology improvements. The Board approved the $10,700 payment to the firm for design services. The issue will be discussed more during the leadership team work session on Thursday.