Board Briefs - September 2019

Regular Open Meeting Brief – September 19, 2019 

The entire meeting agenda can be viewed at:  September 19, 2019 BOE Meeting

 Fall 2019 iReady Assessments

The Board was provided data from the fall 2019 iReady assessment, which is a computer generated, adaptive, individualized diagnostic assessment and instruction tool for math and reading.  The adaptive diagnostic test is used to determine areas of student strength and need in key domains and identify students who are performing on Grade level (Tier 1), one grade level below (Tier 2), and two or more grade levels below (Tier 3).  Results drive instruction as teachers work towards satisfying each student’s needs through individualized lessons.  Comparing the first year of iReady data to MAP test results demonstrates that iReady is aligned well with the MAP test. 

School Improvement Plans (SIP) 

The Board heard SIP presentations from the principals of Belvidere (BV) and Meadowmere (MM) Elementary schools. SIP goals included increasing achievement in English Language Arts (ELA), math and science on standardized tests, and nurturing a positive school culture/climate. 

Adoption of Tax Levy 

The Board approved a tax levy rate of $4.0930 for the General and Teacher (Combined) Operating funds, and $1.05 for the Debt Service fund, for a total tax levy rate of $5.1430 for 2019.  This represents a decrease of $0.4825 over last year. A tax levy hearing was held prior to the regular open meeting. 

Giving the Basics 

Giving the Basics is a nonprofit organization that provides basic human dignity products that are not covered by government assistance, such as toothpaste, shampoo, deodorant, soap and other personal care hygiene products.  The district registered with Giving the Basics in 2016 to provide these types of products to students who need them.  A representative updated the Board on their activities and shared that Giving the Basics provided over 30,000 products to Grandview C4 students during the 2018-19 school year. 

Coffee with the Superintendent 

The Superintendent with continue to meet with Grandview C4 community members through his “Coffee with the Superintendent” program. Dates for Coffee with the Superintendent will be October 11, March 28, and June 12, locations to be determined.