Lone Tree

Over the last several regular meetings, the Lone Tree school board has continued discussing the condition of the roof on the north side of the building.

Built in 2002, the roof has reached the end of its expected lifespan and is in need of replacement. A representative inspected the roof earlier this year and recommended replacing it.

Although the roof is not currently leaking into the building, district officials said it remains a concern that will need to be addressed.

According to Superintendent Tyler Hotz, the roof is now 24 years old and has reached its life expectancy.

“They did core sampling inside the roof, and some of the insulation is getting moisture. I would say that's an issue.”

While the district does not plan to replace the roof this year, officials believe it can safely wait until next summer.

“They all agreed we could wait until next summer and be fine.”

The board reviewed estimates from D.C. Taylor and West Branch Roofing, along with recommendations from Shive-Hattery, which is serving as an advisor on the project. Members also reviewed warranty options, including a 20-year warranty for repairs and a 30-year warranty for a full roof replacement.

The board did not make a decision and instead requested that a representative from Shive-Hattery attend a future meeting to further explain the available options.

As discussed during the board's May meeting, the district still plans to use PPEL funds rather than the general fund to pay for the project.

HVAC

The board also received another update on its ongoing HVAC improvement project.

During its second meeting in May, the board approved using the construction manager at risk (CMAR) method for the project after reviewing three delivery options.

Hotz told the board the district is still waiting on updated cost estimates from Shive-Hattery, which are expected by July 21. Brian Steffens remains the district's primary contact as planning continues on the project's design, cost and bond language.

The district plans to hold a special meeting later this month to approve the bond language and begin the petition process. The completed petition must be submitted to the county auditor by Aug. 26 in order for the measure to appear on the November ballot.

Hotz explained the process to the board.

“We have to get signatures equal to 25% of the last election, submit the petition, and have you approve it before I can send it to the auditor to be placed on the ballot.”

Summer projects

Hotz also updated the board on several summer facility projects that are expected to be completed before the start of the new school year.

The projects include re-keying district facilities, bus barn phone and plumbing work, track survey and resurfacing planning, and abatement and epoxy work in middle school and special education classrooms.

Acting board president Alex Ogren suggested using the summer staff for smaller maintenance projects if they finish ahead of schedule.

“If we get ahead of schedule, I think about having them paint the fire hydrants or other small projects.”

Board member Alecia Parizek also suggested repainting the post with the attached chain.

Another project discussed was asphalt drainage near the shop and wrestling area. However, Hotz said the work will likely be postponed until next summer because contractors would only complete the dirt work and not the underground drainage.

“The contractor agreed they would only do the dirt work and not any of the underground pipe or drainage work. Because of that, the project doesn't seem viable to complete this summer, so I can revisit it next summer. I don't intend to pursue it this year.”

Hires and resignations

The board approved several personnel changes, including both new hires and resignations.

Sam Skogan was approved as the district's new head girls basketball coach after resigning as assistant boys basketball coach. The board also approved Lauren Fladland as the district's K-12 vocal teacher and accepted the resignation of yearbook adviser Kyle Holderness.

New position

The board approved creating a new part-time marketing and communications director position after discussing the proposal during its June meeting.

Hotz said he hopes to hire someone already employed by the district because they would already be familiar with the schools and community.

After reviewing similar positions, Hotz recommended a $6,000 annual stipend. However, several board members believed the amount was too low.

“I'm really concerned that $6,000 isn't enough for what would be provided. We've already paid more than $10,000, and that wasn't even for a full year. I think we're going to get much more out of this than we did from that.”

Following discussion, the board approved an $8,000 annual stipend for the position, which is expected to be posted in August.

Virtual academy

The board also discussed the possibility of creating a virtual academy for Lone Tree students.

Although no action was taken, Hotz said the goal is to provide a local online learning option for students who currently attend virtual schools outside the district.

“The intention is to try to bring back some of the seven students who currently attend virtual schools outside the district, with the primary focus on students in grades 6 through 12.”

Hotz said he plans to contact families over the next few weeks to gauge their interest before bringing additional information back to the board.

Shared librarian

The board approved an agreement with Grant Wood AEA to share a licensed librarian rather than hire a full-time employee.

Under the agreement, the district will pay $19,000 annually. The librarian will be in the district 19 days each year, generally twice a month, to manage the library collection, provide lesson materials and ensure the district remains in compliance with state accreditation requirements.

Hotz said the agreement is expected to save the district approximately $50,000.

Next meeting

The board's next regular meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 6 p.m. in the library.