The Pirate Chronicles ALBURNETT COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT 131 Roosevelt St. Alburnett, IA 52202 ~ 319.842.2266

May 2017 Issue

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Superintendent’s Message .... 1 Dani Trimble - Superintendent Letter from Principal Ken Kasper .................................. 1 From the Desk of .................... 2 Josh Henriksen Pirate Health News ................ 2 Annual School Cookout ........... 2 8th Grade Graduation ........... 2 Last Day of School .................. 2 Honor Roll ................................. 3 Purple & Gold Night .............. 3 May Term.................................. 3 Board Meeting Minutes......... 4 Pirate Collaborative .............. 4 PAX Program ........................... 4 Library Open This Summer ... 4 Breakfast/Lunch Menus ........ 5 Summer Calendar of Events .. 6 Choir Solo/Ensemble.............. 6 Band Members Honored ....... 6 Bus Drivers Needed ............... 6 School Supply Pack ............... 6 Athletic Calendars.................. 7 Mission Statement .................. 8

Pirate Contact Information Dani Trimble Superintendent

[email protected] 319.842.2266 Ken Kasper MS/HS Principal

[email protected] 319.842.2263 Josh Henriksen PK-5 Principal/Pirate Collaborative Program Leader

[email protected] 319.842.2261

Superintendent’s Message... Letter from Principal Kasper Dani Trimble Superintendent

Details of a Property Tax Rate There has been no shortage of information regarding the funding of public schools in Iowa over the past several months. Despite the challenges presented by low funding and changing dynamics with employee contracts, the Alburnett Board of Education has been able to continue to achieve the financial health targets established several years ago. The tax rate for next year will be $14.86, down from $16.32 this year and at a rate lower than any we have experienced in ten years. There are many factors that go toward the calculation of the budget and arriving at a tax asking. As a constituent, it is always reassuring to know that there are clear rules that guide the receiving of and using of funds in schools. The “buckets” graphic below is a helpful representation of how this works. The $14.86 property tax rate set for next year supports the “buckets” as follows: General Fund: $10.35 Management Fund: $1.02 PPEL – Board Approved: $0.33 PPEL – Voter Approved: $0.46 Debt Service - $2.70 This property tax rate of $14.86 will generate $2,875,637, which is approximately one-third of the district’s anticipated operating budget across all funds.

Ken Kasper

MS/HS Principal

Part 3: Putting homework and extra credit in its proper place Although assigning high grades as rewards can sometimes motivate students (Guskey & Bailey, 2001; Marzano, 2000), assigning low grades as punishment does not encourage students to do better (Dueck, 2014; Guskey, 2000; Guskey & Bailey, 2001; Marzano, 2000; O’Connor, 2009, 2011; Wormeli, 2006). Furthermore, grades used as external incentives can sometimes lead to decreased motivation (Guskey, 2011), diminished performance, addictive behaviors, or cheating (Matthis, 2010). In a meta-analysis of the research on homework, Cooper, Robinson and Patall (2006)

described a connection between homework and student learning lasting through the unit test, but not any longer. The limited nexus between homework and more longterm indicators suggests the predictability of student learning is better measured with more formal measures such as tests, essays and other classroom assessments. Furthermore, educational assessment experts recommend all formative work (that is, intended for practice) should not be included in the final grade. (Stiggins, Frisbie & Griswold, 1989) Extra credit is problematic in that the students who would benefit the most from complet...continued on Page 3

From The Desk Of...

Josh Henriksen PK-5 Principal/Pirate Collaborative Program Leader

Wow, what a great school year at Alburnett Elementary. We learned a lot, had a lot of fun, and I even got taped to a wall and pied in the face! Our students grew throughout the year (both up in height and in learning!) and our teachers and staff worked tirelessly to make Alburnett Elementary a great place to be! I am extremely proud to be an Alburnett Pirate and am thankful to many people who help make us a wonderful Alburnett Family. As we again look toward the close of a school year and into the summer, I am going to bring back some points from a previous article that fits. While summer is a great time for children to play and be with family, inevitably, we see some students who slide a little backwards in the summer in terms of their learning. In order to avoid the “summer slide” that can happen to students and the impact that can have when we return to school in August. Below are some ideas you can do with your students to help them start their next school year set up for success: • Set aside time specifically for reading for the family. During this time, you can be an example and read as well. • Getting students together with friends (outside of structured youth sports) to play and talk with each other to encourage conversation. • When you are on the road, have students read signs and billboards. Also, try books on tape in the car. • Have students practice writing by writing letters, starting a journal, or a blog about their summer activities. • Practice math with students (teachers can give you information or ideas of where to start with them). • Computers and Ipads have a lot of apps that can help with reading, writing, and math. • Play cards, most traditional card games have a lot of logic and math. • Participate in a summer reading program (Kernels, Barnes and Noble, and Cedar Rapids Libraries all have program). • Have kids practice paying at the store with actual cash to learn how to count money. You can always talk to your child’s teachers about student specific ideas they may have for the summer and ways we can work together to help stop the summer slide!

ANNUAL SCHOOL COOKOUT May 18, 2017 We are in need of 5 or 6 fabulous volunteers to assist us! If you are available to help on May 18th, please contact Denise Rawson at 842-2261 or [email protected] If you are planning on joining us to eat that day, please RSVP to the above contact information as well. Rain date will be May 19th.

LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FRIDAY, MAY 26, 2017 2:15 EARLY DISMISSAL HAVE A SUPER, FANTASTIC SUMMER!!

Pirate Health News

May 2017 Issue

Medications Pickup Prior to End of School Year & Student Health Requirements for the 2017-2018 School Year As this school year comes to an end, I would like to provide a reminder of the state law regarding transportation of medications to and from the school. According to state law for medications in schools, parents need to provide safe delivery of medication and equipment to and from school and to pick up remaining medication and equipment when the medication or equipment is no longer needed or at the end of the school year. If your child has medications or health equipment in the health office, please take a moment to stop by during the school day to pick up any excessive medications or items. “Under the Secure and Responsible Drug Disposal Act of 2010, school personnel do not have the legal authority to deliver controlled substances to registrants for the purpose of disposal on behalf of the ultimate user”. Summertime is a perfect time to begin obtaining health requirements for the 2017 – 2018 school year. It is a great time to bring your child to the health care professional for preventative care. A yearly visit to the primary care physician, dentist, and ophthalmologist is important for their optimal health. Healthy students are better learners. During Preschool and Kindergarten Round-Up, forms were given to all parents for students entering preschool or kindergarten. During conferences, information was handed out regarding health requirements for students entering 3rd, 7th, 9th, or 12th grades. The following health requirements are required prior to the beginning of the 2017 – 2018 school year: Preschool students – Physical and immunizations. The physical on file at the school needs to be current within the past year for routine screening tests and immunizations. Yearly updates are required. Kindergarten students – Immunizations including vaccinations after the age of 4 years is required for admission. A vision and dental screening completed one year prior to the beginning of the school year to six months after is required. All children enrolling in Kindergarten are required to have had at least one blood lead test. Third grade students – Vision screening. A valid vision screening was performed no earlier than 1 year prior to enrollment in third grade and no more than 6 months after the date of the child’s enrollment.

Seventh grade students – Prior to the first day of school, all students entering, advancing or transferring into 7th grade and born after September 15, 2004, will need proof of one dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine (MenACWY). NO grace period or extension days will be allowed. A one-time dose of the Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, acellular pertussis) vaccine is also required prior to the first day of the 2017- 2018 school year. Ninth grade students – Dental screening by a dentist or dental hygienist completed one year prior to the beginning of the school year. Twelfth grade students - Prior to the first day of school, all students entering, advancing, or transferring into 12th grade and born after September 15, 1999, will need proof of two doses of meningococcal (A, C W, Y) vaccine; or 1 dose if received when the student was 16 years of age or older. NO grace period or extension days will be allowed. Sports physicals - Every year each student (grades 7-12) shall present to the student’s superintendent a certificate signed by a licensed physician and surgeon, osteopathic physician and surgeon, osteopath, advanced registered nurse practitioner (ARNP), physician’s assistant or qualified doctor of chiropractic, to the effect that the student has been examined and may safely engage in athletic competition. This certificate of physical examination is valid for the purposes of this rule for one (1) calendar year. A grace period, not to exceed thirty (30) days, is allowed for expired certifications of physical examination. If your child has a chronic health condition, appropriate completed paperwork for school use can be obtained during your visit to your health care provider. Yearly documentation for health conditions such as asthma for selfadministration with an inhaler, anaphylaxis for food or insect allergies, seizure actions plans, diabetes medical management plans, and other conditions are required yearly. I will be sending the paperwork home with your child if they have health conditions requiring yearly paperwork as identified in Powerschool. If you do not receive the paperwork and your child has a chronic health condition, please feel free contact me. All completed health documents can be mailed to or brought to the appropriate school office. For Happy, Healthy, and Safe Children! Nurse Sue

NOTE TIME CHANGE! 8TH GRADE GRADUATION May 26, 2017 12:30-1:00 pm • Little Gym

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Honor Roll 6th Grade Jake Airy, Ty Amaro, Ava Armon, Breanne Balderston, Clara Barth, Caitlin Benesh, Abbigail Blackford, Kaden Bowler, Savannah Brandt, Brendan Brown, Raina Brown, Oliver Burns, Grayson Carolan, Ellie Cooper, Evelyn Gehring, Lindsey Hospodarsky, Kelsey Jons, Carson Klostermann, Mirandah Lawrence, Alivia Miller, Adam Neighbor, Brody Neighbor, Lacey Neighbor, Mason Neighbor, Chase Phelps, Cody Rammelsberg, Alexandra Schuchmann, Cutter Shefelbine, Reece Stahl 7th Grade Lucas Ahrendsen, James Anderson, Hayden Baker, Zachary Bartlett, Rachel Bemer, Brayden Bennett, Gabrielle Bird, Ethan Borslien, Morgan Brandt, Hailey Carolan, Parker Conklin, Bree Eschen, James Gudenkauf, Khloe Hester, Raylee King, Evan Loeffelholz, Neo Magoon, Macy Marak, Blaine McGraw, Marina Mesch, Marissa Miene, Alexia Miller, Tristan Mitchell, Julia Moore, Andrew Ossman, Ethan Peyton, Maura Rauch, Connor Rock, Hannah Schneider, Caleb Smith, Scott Soenksen, Gavin Soukup, Amelia Stiffler, Megan Strand, Emalie Vavricka, Amelia VonAlexander, Sophia Williams, Lillian Winterowd 8th Grade Cecily Airy, Rhea Armon, Christopher Carter, Hunter Caves, Cade Cook, Sydney Cook, Abbie Eschen, Sydney Franklin, Madison Graubard, Jessica Gudenkauf, Abbigail Heft, Raegan Heims, Sierra Hergert, Gwenyth Jergenson, Noah Mackey, Kirsten Martin, Zach Martin, Landon McGraw, Cael Neighbor, Megan Neighbor, Shane Neighbor, Hunter Novak, Tyler Olmstead, McKenna Parker, Macauley Riley, Taylor Rock, Kale Rose, Shelby Rowe, Codi Sedrel, Lee Sloan, Courtney Smith, Jordan Smith, Logan Smith, Reed Stallman, Braydon Taylor 9th Grade Emily Armstrong, Jordan Balderston, Mia Bickal, Hunter Borslien, Aleah Brown, Zindrick Burns, Zachary Cooper, Xander Cortimilia, Rachel Dahlem, Arissa Engel, Andrew Finfrock, Adria Funston, Caroline Gehring, Taylor Hospodarsky, Austin Huber, Dillon Kremer, Andrew McFarlin, Hunter Mesch, Bailey Neighbor, Madison Schuster, Holden Sevening, Latyse Smith, Grant Soukup, Blake Sperfslage, Lucy Stevenson, Ella Thompson, Johnathon Waskow, Brody Willett 10th Grade Riley Blackford, Sierra Brandt, Remington Comried, Abigail Cook, Calvin Gehring, Jared Graubard, Caleb Hawkins, MacKenzie Hester, Lydia Lines, Izic Mackey, Courtney Maloney,

Kanan Morris, Jenna Neighbor, Luke Neighbor, Madison Osborn, Nolan Ossman, Keaton Parker, Andrew Phelps, Abbigail Prucha, Zebulen Schneider, Madelyn Schuchmann, Elise Smith, Luke Smith, Nicole Smith, Brie Sperfslage, Elizabeth Sperfslage, Austin Stallman, Kylie Volesky, Alexi Washburn, Mason Wickman, Callie Wright 11th Grade Nicholas Airy, Makenna Blackford, Ian Boline, Kayla Buck, Anna Curtis, Harper Eastman, Autumn Engel, Lexi Fuller, Nieve Funston, Jeremy Gordon, Haley Hollan, Kayla Hospodarsky, Adelia Kroupa, Miah Lawrence, Autumn Loehr, Cody Martin, Brandon Mather, Camron Miene, Alexis Miller, Kippen Miller, Maxwell Molander, Katie Mul-

brook, Edward Niedert, Lacey Paul, Joey Rojek, Shania Sherman, Tanner Sloan, Lucas Stiffler, Devon Strand, Delaney Sturtz, Nicole Sutter, Kylee Trimble, Jack Waskow, Emily Wood, Victoria Wood, Allie Wright 12th Grade Matthew Aller, Jordyn Callahan, Spencer Dove, Alex Finfrock, Mariah Griffin, Destiny Hawkins, Kaitlyn Hester, Vanessa Hoyle, Bryce Humpfer, Amanda Jensen, Page Koch, Walker Kramme, Mitchell Lillie, Logan McClintock, Dawson Medin, Brianna Murdock, Grant Neighbor, Brooklyn Ossman, Amber Porter, Kassidy Rose, Hannah Schon, Jailyn Seabrooks, Eon Struchen, Dakota Trenkamp, Dylan Umbdenstock, Spencer Weyland, Myah Wilson

May 2017 Issue

May Term May Term will be May 22-26 for students in 6th11th grade. A showcase of the projects will be in the big gym on Friday, May 26, from 1:15-2:00 p.m. Please stop by to see the projects students will be working on all week!

Principal's message ..continued from Page 1

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ing it are often not the ones taking advantage of it (Harrison, Meister & LeFevre, 2011; Moore, 2005). More succinctly, awarding extra credit in classrooms has the potential to artificially widen the gap between students performing well and those who are struggling. We can do better. In the past century, everything from modern medicine to personal computing has evolved and improved; yet our educational system’s grading practices have remained the same, despite a lack of supporting evidence. A standards-based system of assessment seems to be a significant and defensible improvement over traditional grading practices. The logical alignment of a standards based approach with Common Core standards, the advocacy by a growing number of respected educational leaders and researchers, and the positive results experienced by many of its early adopters signals that SBG is positioned to gain traction in more schools (Peters & Buckmiller, 2014). While studying standards-based pilot programs in Kentucky, Guskey, Jung, and Swan (2011) found teachers and families nearly unanimous in their agreement that standards-based reports provided better and clearer information. Thus, the power of SBG lies in the opportunity for a more nuanced and focused conversation between parents and teachers about where students are strong, where they are weak, and how each can help the student (Spencer, 2012). With supporting literature and a growing body of research validating SBG, stakeholders can rest assured that our most important resource, our students, will benefit from this shift.

Box Tops for Education and HyVee Receipts KEEP SAVING! Please keep saving those Box Tops for Education and HyVee Receipts throughout the summer and turn them in this fall.

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The Case for Pirate Collaborative Several students are engaged in a new initiative allowing for learning opportunities that don’t fit a typical class mold. Projects are driven by interest and innovation, ranging from a bi-weekly news segment, titled “Pirate Newscast”, to developing a plan for the renovation of Alburnett’s baseball field, to the creation of a software permitting for a student-run library. Due to the newness of The Pirate Collaborative, here’s our story… COLLECTIVE OPPORTUNITIES Application of the “stuff” young people are learning is an ever-increasing need. Simultaneously, businesses and organizations in the surrounding area face a wide array of challenges and opportunities, many of which go unaddressed because of limited time and resources. Additionally, the number of creative, contemporary thinkers in the area is limited, as many young people don’t realize the opportunities for such work that exists around them. SOLUTION: THE PIRATE COLLABORATIVE With the support of teacher-mentors, we’ve cut students loose with real-world learning opportunities. Infused with essential employability skills, students have the potential of receiving various high school credits through Pirate Collaborative. THE GLUE: PARTNERSHIPS With increasing support for project-based learning statewide, we believe surrounding businesses and organizations are not only important for student learning, but a non-negotiable partner in developing young people who can tackle real problems with real expectations, audiences, and timelines. By combining the classroom and the workplace student learning is authentic and relatable, while providing the opportunity to practice key life skills. As The Pirate Collaborative evolves, these learning opportunities will gradually be infused into more classes, in addition to the individualized learning already taking place. AMBITION: THE FUTURE IS NOW Inevitably, The Pirate Collaborative will shape the communities we live in by improving the economic sector and overall well-being of the people in the surrounding area. Come to our Open House on the evening of May 2nd, from 5:30 to 6:30 PM, to see what students in The Pirate Collaborative have been working on. The Art Fair will also be going on the night of May 2nd, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Join us in celebrating the creative thinking ongoing at Alburnett!

May 2017 Issue ALBURNETT BOARD MEETING MINUTES ALBURNETT COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT REGULAR BOARD MEETING MINUTES BOARD ROOM MONDAY, MARCH 20, 2017 5:30 P.M.

Freshman Holden Sevening (left) and Dr. Adam Thoms (right), Assistant Professor, Department of Horticulture, survey the batter’s box as part of a plan for the eventual renovation of Alburnett’s baseball field.

Juniors Katie Mulbrook (left) and Haley Hollan (right) brainstorm elements of their project centered on the development and inclusion of a Makerspace in student learning at Alburnett.

Juniors Shania Sherman (left) and Tori Wood (right) recently shared a progress update regarding the development of a formal mentoring program between secondary and elementary students.

Mission Statement: The Alburnett Community School District will provide educational opportunities which enable students to become confident, competent, and responsible contributors to society. I. Call to Order / Roll Call: Avery Reed, Board President, called the regular board meeting to order at 5:30 pm. Members present by Roll Call were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. Others Present: Principal Ken Kasper, Principal Josh Henrikson, Superintendent Dani Trimble and Board Secretary Jim Mauss. II. Approve Agenda: Kala Liebe moved and Jennifer Slife seconded to approve the agenda. Votes of Ave were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. III. Welcome Visitors A. Public Hearing for 2017-2018 Calendar – Hours vs. Days — 5:30 p.m. No one from the public spoke regarding the hours versus days concept. B. Public Comments to the Board None IV. Board Reports A. Department Heads – Mike Mitchell, Transportation Coordinator. Mike presented the board with an average number of kids riding each bus, 40, as well as 17 kids that ride the pre-k bus. He shared that the bus driving staff all complete an annual training including a meeting on bus behavior. Inspections plan to be done by the Iowa DOT on March 28th. Mr. Mitchell also reported that there were few weather issues due to the mild winter season. B. Curriculum Departments – Fine Arts Teachers Joe Amsberry, Joe Fagersten and Loxley Grafe presented to the board on how Choir, Band and Art classes were going throughout the school year. C. Principals – Ken Kasper. Mr. Kasper thanked the Fine Arts Teachers for the job they do and building relationships with the students. Mr. Kasper also gave an update on the PLTW programming. Josh Henriksen - Mr. Henriksen made a push for the America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education Program Grant. Mr. Henriksen also presented the board with updated results from the K-8 reading challenge. D. Business Manager – Jim Mauss. Mr. Mauss gave the school board a new monthly financial report that will be included in each member’s monthly file. E. Board Members – Jennifer Slife acknowledged the loss of Leesa Bushnell. F. Superintendent – Dr. Dani Trimble. Dr. Trimble gave the board an update on current legislative items that are currently be discussed in Iowa. Dr. Trimble also presented an update on Fusion Farm who is assisting the district with branding and marketing plan. V. Consent Agenda Administration recommends that the Board approve the Consent Agenda items as listed below. A. Minutes 1. February 16, 2017 Special Meeting 2. February 20, 2017 Regular Meeting B. Financial Reports C. Invoices D. Resignations E. Contract Approvals F. Out of State/Overnight Trips Jennifer Slife moved and Jason Martin seconded to approve the consent agenda as presented. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. VI. Dialogue/Action Items A. 2017-2018 School Calendar A committee of administration and teachers have prepared the 2017-2018 school calendar and there are no significant changes to the format of calendar. Jennifer Slife moved and Kala Liebe seconded to approve the school calendar as presented. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. B. Publication of Hearing for 2017-2018 Budget Dr. Trimble provided the board with a brief overview of the district health. She also presented a Notice of Public Hearing to be published. Kala Liebe moved and Jason Martin seconded to approve the publication of the budget hearing to be held Monday, April 10 at 5:30 p.m. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. C. Resolution of Support: Promise of Iowa Public Education Campaign The Iowa Association of School Boards launched “The Promise of Iowa” campaign (promiseofiowa.org) to focus attention on the future of Iowa public school students and to rally support for investments in public education. School districts across Iowa have been asked to support this campaign by considering approval of a

PAX - Program of Academic Exchange My name is Chris Giles. I am a Community Coordinator for PAX (Program of Academic Exchange) PAX is a non-profit organization that works with the Department of State. Out of the 30,000 high school students that come to America, PAX has been privileged to have over 17,500 to place in families homes all over the United States. Have you ever thought of hosting an exchange student, 9 months out of the year?? • You can be married with or without children, empty nesters or single parents. • Students are required • Have a bedroom, or can be shared with the same sex host sibling • A quiet place to study • 3 meals a day • A family that will love them

• Expanding their horizons and ways of thinking • Students come with their own money • Students come with excellent health insurance • They are willing to engage themselves in the American culture, make friends and share their country’s culture with us! • They are here to improve their English, make friends, and think outside their culture. They are here to engage themselves in school activities and also to volunteer in their communities. PAX Students come from: Argentina, Brazil, China, Denmark, Egypt, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Indonesia, India, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, Philippians,

Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, and Venezuela, AND MANY MORE COUNTRIES! One More Thing! Not only the student, but the host family has the good support of a local coordinator for any questions or help needed. We stay in contact on a monthly or more basis. So… if this will be of interest to you, please contact me. Our school year for 2017-18 will be here before you know. We have a bunch of students that are waiting for their dream to come true. Help make it a reality! Look forward to your open hearts! Chris Giles, Community Coordinator, PAX (H) 319-398-7563 (C) 319-361-3583 [email protected]

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campaign support resolution. Jennifer Slife moved and Kala Liebe seconded to approve Iowa Public Education Campaign resolution. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried D. Disposition of Obsolete Equipment A. The board was presented with a list of items for approval to be sold. Items will be sold using www.govdeals.com. Kala Liebe moved and Aaron Balderston seconded to approve to sell the listed items on www.govdeals.com. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried E. Lawn Mowing Service Four proposals were submitted. While each is slightly different, we have used the information provided in each proposal to generate an approximation for the total cost for the 26 week window advertised. Jason Martin moved and Jennifer Slife seconded to approve hiring Rick McGraw for lawn care services. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderson, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried F. Board Self-Evaluation Process Kala Liebe moved and Jason Martin seconded to approve the annual process of Board Self-Evaluation by online survey. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried VII. Confirm Date and Time of Next Meeting The next Regular Board Meeting will be at 5:30 p.m. on April 17, 2017. VIII. Adjourn Kala Liebe moved and Jason Martin seconded to adjourn the meeting at 6:55 p.m. Votes of Aye were Aaron Balderston, Kala Liebe, Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried These are unofficial minutes. The official minutes may be seen in the Board Secretary’s office. Jim Mauss, Business Manager/Board Secretary ALBURNETT COMMUNITY SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL BOARD MEETING APRIL 10, 2017 - 5:30 PM 1. Call to Order: Board President Avery Reed called the special meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Members present: Jason Martin and Jennifer Slife. Others in attendance were: Superintendent Dr. Dani Trimble and Board Secretary Jim Mauss. Board members absent were: Aaron Balderston and Kala Liebe 2. Approval of agenda: Jennifer Slife moved and Jason Martin seconded to approve the agenda as presented. Votes of Aye were: Jason Martin, Avery Reed, and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. 3. Welcome Visitors: None A. Public Hearing on District Budget for the 2017-2018 School Year – 5:30 p.m. Board President, Avery Reed opened the public hearing at 5:30 p.m. There were no comments from the public, Avery Reed closed the public hearing at 5:31 p.m. 4. Dialogue Action Items: A. Budget Guarantee Resolution: Dr. Trimble reviewed the resolution. Jason Martin moved and Jennifer Slife seconded to approve the Budget Guarantee Resolution as presented. Roll Call Votes of Aye were: Jason Martin, Avery Reed, and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. B. Resolution Authorizing the Redemption of General Obligation School Bonds: Dr. Trimble reviewed the resolution and cost savings for the local taxpayers. Jennifer Slife moved and Jason Martin seconded to approve the resolution authorizing the redemption of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2007, dated May 1, 2007 and Levying a Tax for Fiscal Year 2017-18 for the Redemption of General Obligation School Bonds, Series 2007, dated May 1, 2007. Votes of Aye were: Jason Martin, Avery Reed and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. C. Approval of 2017-2018 District budget: Dr. Trimble presented a recommended budget for the board to review for the 2017-2018 school year. Jason Martin moved and Jennifer Slife seconded to approve the 2017-2018 district budget as presented with a tax rate of $14.85658. Votes of Aye were: Jason Martin, Avery Reed, and Jennifer Slife. There were no Nay votes. Motion carried. 5. Adjournment: Jennifer Slife moved and Jason Martin seconded to adjourn the special meeting at 5:35 p.m. Votes of Aye were: Jason Martin, Avery Reed, and Jennifer Slife. There were no votes of Nay. Motion carried. These are unofficial minutes. The official minutes may be seen at the Board Secretary’s office. Jim Mauss, Business Manager/Board Secretary

Elementary Library Open This Summer The Elementary Library will be open for checkout this summer in conjunction with the two summer school sessions. Watch for a schedule on the website in June.

May 2017 Issue

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SUMMER CALENDAR OF EVENTS MAY 2017 May 1, 2017: School and Community Forum - 6:30 pm May 2, 2017: Art Fair & PTO Ice Cream Social - 5:00 pm May 5, 2017: Early Dismissal 1:45 pm May 8, 2017: Pirate Patrons Music Booster Meeting - 6:00 pm May 10, 2017: Booster Club Meeting - 7:00 pm May 11, 2017: PTO Meeting – Elementary Library - 6:30 pm May 15, 2017: 5-12 Spring Band Concert - 7:00 pm May 15, 2017: Regular School Board Meeting - 5:30 pm May 16, 2017: Lions Club Ribbon Cutting for Safe Pathway - 5:30 pm May 16, 2017: Spring/Summer Purple/Gold Night @ Complex 6:00 pm May 17, 2017: Senior Awards Night - 6:30 pm May 19, 2017: Early Dismissal 1:45 pm May 21, 2017: Graduation - 2:00 pm May 23, 2017: MS/HS Vocal Concert - 7:00 pm May 24, 2017: Foundation Meeting - 6:30 pm May 26, 2017: 8th Grade Graduation - 12:30–1:00 pm May 26, 2017: May Term Exhibition - 1:15 – 2:00 pm May 26, 2017: Early Dismissal 2:15 pm May 26, 2017: Last Day of School JUNE 2017 June 5, 2017: School and Community Forum - 6:30 pm June 12, 2017: Pirate Patrons Music Boosters Meeting - 6:00 pm June 14, 2017: Booster Club Meeting - 7:00 pm June 19, 2017: Regular School Board Meeting - 5:30 pm June 28, 2017: Foundation Meeting - 6:30 pm JULY 2017 July 3, 2017: School and Community Forum - 6:30 pm July 10, 2017: Pirate Patrons Music Booster Meeting - 6:00 pm July 12, 2017: Booster Club Meeting - 7:00 pm July 17, 2017: School Board Meeting - 5:30 pm July 26, 2017: Foundation Meeting - 6:30 pm

Solo/Ensemble Contest for High School Choir Students Division I Ratings • Amanda Jensen - Vocal Solo • Amanda Jensen, Mitchell Lillie, Kylee Trimble, Jack Waskow - Mixed Quartet • Amanda Jensen, Brooklynn Ossman, Kylee Trimble - Women’s Trio • Caroline Gehring, Taylor Hospodarsky, Lucy Stevenson - Women’s Trio • Jack Waskow - Vocal Solo • Kipp Miller - Vocal Solo • Kylee Trimble - Vocal Solo • Logan McClintock and Brooklynn Ossman - Duet • Mitchell Lillie - Vocal Solo • Nieve Funston - Vocal Solo Division II Ratings • Calvin and Caroline Gehring - Duet

• Christian Brown - Vocal Solo • Gracy Martin - Vocal Solo • Calvin Gehring, Mitchell Lillie, Kipp Miller, Jack Waskow - Men’s Quartet • Hannah Schon - Vocal Solo • Logan McClintock - Vocal Solo • Matt Aller, Zindrick Burns, Caroline Gehring, MacKenzie Hester, Gracy Martin, Maddy Schuchman, Jack Waskow, John Waskow - Double Quartet • Riley Blackford, Nieve Funston, MacKenzie Hester, Amanda Jensen, Hannah Schon - Women’s Quintet • Riley Blackford, Christian Brown, Aaron Carter, Neive Funston, Brandon Mather, Logan McClintock Hannah Schon, Madison Schuster - Double Quartet

Band Members Receive Honors Solo/Ensemble Contest for High School Band Students Four Division 1 ratings: Caroline Gehring, Sax Solo Callie Wright, Clarinet Solo Riley Blackford, Flute Solo Elizabeth Sperfslage, Flute Solo Ten Division 2 ratings: Kylee Trimble, Clarinet Solo Lucy Stevenson, Sax Solo Taylor Hospodarsky, Sax Solo Maddy Schuchmann, Sax Solo John Waskow, Trombone Solo Lydia Lines, Tuba Solo Calvin Gehring, Vibraphone Solo Caroline Gehring & Lucy Stevenson, Sax Duet Riley Blackford & Elizabeth Sperfslage, Flute Duet Caroline Gehring, Lucy Stevenson, & Taylor Hospodarsky, Sax Trio One Division 3 rating: Dillon Kremer, Euphonium Solo Coe Honor Band Senior High: Calvin Gehring, Percussion Taylor Hospodarsky, Bari Sax Junior High: Hailey Carolan, Flute Khloe Hester, Clarinet Megan Neighbor, Alto Sax 6th Grade: Alivia Miller, Clarinet Cody Rammelsberg, Bass Clarinet Adam Neighbor, Trumpet 5th Grade: Peyton Scott, Flute Isabelle Graubard, Flute Savannah Caves, Clarinet Payton Baker, F Horn Zachariah Carolan, Trumpet Ally Olmstead, Trumpet Rory McGargill, Trombone Jeremy Powell, Tuba Karson Rose, Tuba Mya Gilchrist, Percussion Five Seasons Honor Band 8th Grade: Katie Tasker, Clarinet

Aidan Beaulne, Trumpet 7th Grade: Kaitlin Wink, Flute Amelia Stiffler, Flute Hailey Carolan, Flute Khloe Hester, Clarinet Maura Rauch, Clarinet Rachel Bemer, Clarinet Morgan Brandt, Alto Sax Ethan Borslien, Tenor Sax Zach Bartlett, F Horn Neo Magoon, Trumpet James Gudenkauf, Trombone Tanner Dye, Percussion

The Pirate Chronicles page 6

May 2017 Issue

BUS DRIVERS NEEDED The Alburnett School District has a regular route bus driver vacancy starting with the 2017-18 school year. We are also looking for substitute drivers for both regular routes and activities. If interested please contact Mike Mitchell, Transportation Director at [email protected] or by calling 319-842-2261.

Jackson Graham, Percussion 6th Grade: Alivia Miller, Clarinet Caitlin Benesh, Clarinet Lindsey Hospodarsky, Clarinet Cody Rammelsberg, Bass Clarinet Johnathan Priest, F Horn Adam Neighbor, Trumpet Lacey Neighbor, Trumpet Ty Amaro, Trombone Brody Neighbor, Baritone Jake Airy, Tuba Brendan Brown, Percussion

ALBURNETT ATHLETIC CALENDARS SUMMER - MAY, JUNE & JULY 2017 May

Mon, May 1 9:00 am Golf Boys HS @ Valley Oaks Golf Club 4:15 pm Track Girls JrH @ Center Point Urbana HS 4:15 pm Track Boys JrH @ Maquoketa Valley HS 4:30 pm Soccer Girls Varsity @ Tuma Complex vs. South Tama 4:45 pm Track Girls HS @ Edgewood Colesburg HS 6:00 pm Soccer Boys Varsity @ Tuma Soccer Complex vs. South Tama Tues, May 2 4:15 pm Track Girls @ Central City Thur, May 4 4:00 pm Golf HS Varsity @ Wapsi Oaks Country Club 4:00 pm Track Girls HS @ Maquoketa Valley HS 4:00 pm Track Boys HS @ Maquoketa Valley HS Fri, May 5 4:30 pm Soccer Girls Varsity @ Mid-Prairie Soccer Complex 6:00 pm Soccer Boys Varsity @ Mid-Prairie Soccer Complex Mon, May 8 9:00 am Golf Girls HS @ Valley Oaks Golf Course 5:30 pm Soccer Girls Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Vinton Shellsburg 7:00 pm Soccer Boys Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Vinton Shellsburg Tues, May 9 4:00 pm Track Girls JrH @ Central City 4:00 pm Track Boys JrH TRC Meet @ Alburnett Thur, May 11 4:30 pm Soccer Girls Varsity @ Anamosa 6:15 pm Soccer Boys Varsity @ Anamosa Sat, May 13 9:00 am Soccer Girls Varsity @ Waverly Shell Rock HS Soccer Complex Thur, May 18 5:00 pm Soccer Girls Varsity @ Williamsburg 7:00 pm Soccer Girls JV @ Williamsburg Fri, May 19 4:30 pm Soccer Girls Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Denver Comm Schools Mon, May 22 5:30 pm Softball JV/V @ West Liberty Wed, May 24 5:00 pm Baseball JV (2) @ Central City HS 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Central City HS Thur, May 25 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Springville 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Springville Fri, May 26 5:00 pm Baseball JV (2) @ Springville 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Springville Sat, May 27 9:00 am Softball Varsity Tournament @ Jesup 10:00 am Baseball Varsity Tournament @ Central City Tues, May 30 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Central City 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Central City Wed, May 31 4:00 pm Baseball JrH @ Alburnett vs. Starmont 4:00 pm Softball JrH @ Alburnett vs. Starmont 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. North Linn

June

Thur, June 1 TBD Baseball Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Calamus Wheatland TBD Softball Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Calamus Wheatland Fri, June 2 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ East Buchanan 10:00 am Softball JrH @ East Buchanan 10:00 am Softball JV (2) @ Lisbon 10:00 am Baseball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. North Linn Sat, June 3 9:00 am Softball Varsity Tournament @ Bondurant 10:00 am Baseball Varsity Invitational @ Easton Valley Mon, June 5 9:00 am Softball JV Tournament @ Cedar Rapids Jefferson 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Alburnett vs. Edgewood Colesburg 10:00 am Softball JrH @ Alburnett vs. Edgewood Colesburg 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Midland 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Midland Tues, June 6

5:00 pm Baseball JV (2) @ Maquoketa Valley 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Maquoketa Valley Wed, June 7 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Center Point Urbana Fross Park Thur, June 8 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Maquoketa Valley 10:00 am Softball JrH @ Maquoketa Valley 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Marquette Catholic 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Marquette Catholic Fri, June 9 9:00 am Softball JV @ Cedar Rapids Xavier Sat, June 10 TBD Softball Varsity @ Cedar Rapids Jefferson Mon, June 12 9:00 am Softball JV Tournament @ Cedar Rapids Jefferson 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Alburnett vs. North Linn 10:00 am Softball JrH @ Alburnett vs. North Linn 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ East Buchanan 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ East Buchanan Tues, June 13 5:00 pm Baseball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. East Buchanan 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. East Buchanan Wed, June 14 7:00 pm Baseball Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Northeast HS Thur, June 15 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Starmont 10:00 am Softball JrH @ Starmont 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity(2) @ Alburnett vs. Maquoketa Valley 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Maquoketa Valley Fri, June 16 5:30 pm Softball JV/Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Anamosa Mon, June 19 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Alburnett vs. East Buchanan 10:00 am Softball JrH @ Alburnett vs. East Buchanan 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Lisbon 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Lisbon Tues, June 20 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Alburnett vs. Center Point Urbana 5:00 pm Baseball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. Calamus Wheatland 5:30 pm Softball JV/Varsity @ Alburnett vs. Don Bosco Wed, June 21 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. Calmus Wheatland Thur, June 22 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Edgewood Colesburg 10:00 am Softball JrH @ Edgewood Colesburg 10:00 am Softball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. Lisbon 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Prince of Peace Fri, June 23 11:00 am Softball Varsity Tournament @ Alburnett Sat, June 24 10:00 am Softball Varsity Tournament @ Alburnett Mon, June 26 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ Alburnett vs. Maquoketa Valley 10:00 am Softball @ Alburnett vs. Maquoketa Valley 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ North Linn 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ North Linn Tues, June 27 6:00 pm Softball JV/Varsity @ Western Dubuque (Epworth) Wed, June 28 5:00 pm Softball JV (2) @ Midland 5:00 pm Baseball JV (2) @ Midland Thur, June 29 9:00 am Softball JV (2) @ Alburnett vs. Cedar Rapids Xavier 10:00 am Baseball JrH @ North Linn 10:00 am Softball JrH @ North Linn 5:00 pm Baseball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Easton Valley 5:00 pm Softball Varsity (2) @ Alburnett vs. Easton Valley

July

Sat, July 1 10:00 am Softball Varsity Tournament @ Alburnett Thur, July 6 5:30 pm Baseball JV @ West Branch 7:30 pm Baseball Varsity @ West Branch

The Pirate Chronicles page 7

May 2017 Issue

Mission Statement The Alburnett Community School District will provide educational opportunities which enable students to become confident, competent, and responsible contributors to society.

District Overview

The Alburnett Community School District is located in Linn County. The district has one attendance center housing grades K-12. Total enrollment for the district is 640 students. The district’s central office is located in Alburnett, Iowa.

Dedication

As a smaller school, the teachers at Alburnett not only get to know each student, but become acquainted with their families as well. The faculty and staff at Alburnett share a common goal ~ To help each student achieve his or her full potential. Extra effort is the rule rather than the exception among our teachers. Whether it be coming in early or staying late to work with a student, the teachers at Alburnett are dedicated to helping individuals reach their highest level of ability.

Success

At Alburnett, we believe education is a means of preparing students today for the challenges and opportunities ahead of them tomorrow. We are very proud of the success of our students in their endeavors following graduation. Our comprehensive curriculum offers strong college prep and vocational training programs to prepare students for entering the work force or continuing their training.

Quality

At Alburnett Community Schools, providing quality education is our top priority. Highly dedicated instructors and a supportive community combine to create an atmosphere that makes our school attractive to both current and prospective residents. Alburnett also proudly welcomes many open enrollment students from surrounding districts.

Involvement

Participation in extracurricular activities results in higher achievement in school and a higher motivation to succeed. Many of the students at Alburnett are involved in extracurricular activities, and most are involved in more than one activity. A variety of events and programs are offered, including drama, athletics, band, chorus, and vocational/agricultural programs. The involvement of the parents in their children’s education is also an important element in successful learning experiences. At Alburnett, parents are both welcome and encouraged to visit the classroom and become involved in their child’s activities. We have a very strong volunteer program and invite interested parents to participate as much as possible. Several groups are available including PTO, Athletic Boosters, Music Parents, and Parent Volunteers.

ECRWSS Postal Customer ALBURNETT COMMUNITY SCHOOL 131 Roosevelt St. P.O. Box 400 Alburnett, Iowa 52202

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