Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

December 13, 2011

Board Members Present:           Don Bump, Billie Busha, Karen Fleming, Ellen Coffel,

                                                  Sally Hagman

Board Members Not Present:    Steve Downing

Non-Members Present:             Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Suzanne Starr

            1.  Approval of the Agenda:  There were two additions to our agenda: 

4.f. Official depository/legal/newspaper and 4.g. Field trip fee for families with more than one student or PSEO student.  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of the minutes:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Ellen Coffel to approve minutes of November 15, 2011.  All in favor.

            3.  Personnel matters

            a.  Kraig’s termination (closed meeting)

            b.  Ellen’s position

            c.  Appointing new Board members

            d.  Electing Board officers

            e.  Board training opportunities

All of these items are tabled until our January board meeting.  Motion was made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming for Billie Busha to temporarily function as Acting Board Chair.  All in favor.

            4.  Financial report

            a.  Approval of treasurer’s report:

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to approve November operating receipts of $134,496.95.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Ellen Coffel to approve November LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Ellen Coffel to approve November checks 6105 thru 6174 of $156,902.35.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Don Bump to approve November check card transactions of $172.58.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Sally Hagman to approve November miscellaneous disbursements of $47.30.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Ellen Coffel to approve November LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

NLCS Statement of Financial Activity as of 11/30/2011 and NLCS Bank Reconciliation as of 11/30/2011 were handed out.

NLCS budget worksheet was handed out with four proposed revisions:

1 BLANDIN “PAINTING HOPE” GRANT

2 UNSPENT GRANTS FROM FY 11

3 ADDITIONAL STAFF COMPENSATION

4 PROJECTED TRANSFER TO FOOD SVC

RESOLUTION:  To decrease General fund revenue budget by $7,677.  This is the result of adjusting several small grants (see budget revision document attached to minutes).  The budget revision results in a revised total General Fund revenue budget of $1,525,633.

Motion made to accept this resolution to our budget by Ellen Coffel and second by Don Bump.  All in favor.

RESOLUTION:  To decrease General fund expenditure budget by $5,734.  This is the result of adjusting several small grants, adding $5,500 of additional staff compensation and increasing the projected transfer to cover the operating deficit in the food service fund.  The budget revision results in a revised total General Fund expenditure budget, including transfers to the Food Service Fund, of $1,554,554.

Motion made to accept this resolution to our budget by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming.  All in favor.

RESOLUTION:  To increase Food Service fund revenue budget by $10,860.  Participation in the program is consistent with the prior year; prior year revenue was approximately $37,000.  The budget revision results in a revised total Food Service Fund revenue budget of $37,000.

Motion to accept this resolution to our budget made by Sally Hagman and second by Karen Fleming.  All in favor.

RESOLUTION:  To increase the Food Service manager’s hourly pay to $15.30/hr. beginning on 1/1/12.  The unadjusted budget for food costs is overstated, based on current participation and past experience.  The increase in the labor costs will be offset by lower non-labor costs; as a result, there will be no budget revision and the expenditure budget in the Food Service Fund will remain at $52,694.

Motion to accept this resolution made by Sally Hagman and second by Don Bump.  Ellen Coffel abstained from voting.  Motion passed.

RESOLUTION:  To increase the amount of the projected transfer from General Fund to cover the operating deficit in the food service fund by $2,893.  This results in a revised transfer in budget in the Food Service fund of $15,648.

Motion made to accept this resolution to our budget by Karen Fleming and second by Don Bump.  All in favor.

In addition, motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Don Bump to approve the transfer from General Fund to Food Service Fund for the prior year deficit.  All in favor.

RESOLUTION:  To transfer $8,111.89 from General Fund to the Food Service Fund to eliminate the negative fund balance caused by the Fiscal Year 2010-2011 operating deficit in the Food Service Fund.

Motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Karen Fleming to accept $33.60 monetary donation received from Jackie Esler toward student lunches.

            b.  Approval of line of credit application:

After reviewing the Borrowing Resolution from Nonprofits Assistance Fund, motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Don Bump to approve application for this line of credit in the amount of $250,000.  All in favor.

            c.  Pay adjustments:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to approve one time pay adjustment as follows:  $250.00 for full time staff and $100.00 for part-time staff.  All in favor.

            d.  Acceptance of Blandin mini-grants:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to accept $1,000 from Blandin.  All in favor.

            e.  Acceptance of art mini-grant:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Sally Hagman to accept $500 grant from Arrowhead Regional Arts Council enabling a small group of NLCS students to put together an exhibit at MacRostie Art Center.  All in favor.

            f.  Official depository/legal/newspaper:

Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Sally Hagman to designate Grand Rapids State Bank and Minnesota School District Liquid Asset Fund as our financial depositories.  All in favor.

Motion made by Don Bump and second by Sally Hagman to approve Fredrickson and Byron, P.A. as our legal representative through EdVisions.  All in favor.

Motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Ellen Coffel to designate Grand Rapids Herald Review as our newspaper.  All in favor.

            g.  Field trip fee for families with more than one student or PSEO student:

After discussion, motion made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to allow Dave Hagman to be in charge of any day-to-day adjustments to our field trip fee.  All in favor.  Becky McCauley would need written notification of any changes made.

            5.  Program report

            a.  State testing results:  Sally Hagman gave us an update on testing results.  State of Minnesota is using a new online system for testing.  During November and December we tested 9^th grade writing, 10^th grade reading, and 11^th grade math.  Four out of five students passed the writing retest.  We credit this to WILATA.

            b.  Recovery Charter School proposal:  Dave Hagman shared a draft proposal and explained that this would affect AYP and NCLB.

            c.  Audubon Board retreat:  Sally and Dave attended this retreat.  Audubon authorizes approximately 34 schools.  Steve Dess has resigned.  Chuck Speiker is our Audubon Liaison.

            d.  Blandin Foundation musical review:  Twelve NLCS students presented at the Blandin Foundation on Monday evening, December 5th.

            e.  MAAP STARS leadership retreat:  Sally chaperoned four NLCS students at this event at Camp Ripley.  One idea that came out of this is setting up a student government/advisory here at NLCS.

            f.  Eric Samuel Timm:  Eric Timm will be a part of our NLCS presentation night the evening of December 15^th and will present to a combined assembly on Friday, December 16^th.

            6.  Other:

• Ellen Coffel will bring a copy of the approved Wellness Policy to our next board meeting.
• Our E-Rate application was approved.

            7.  Meeting dates for Jan, Feb, Mar, April, May, June:

January 17, 2012         3:15 p.m.

February 23, 2012       3:15 p.m.

March 13, 2012           3:15 p.m.

April 17, 2012             3:15 p.m.

May 15, 2012              3:15 p.m.

June 12, 2012              9:00 a.m.

Motion made by Billie Busha and second by Don Bump to adjourn at 5:00 p.m.

All in favor.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

November 15, 2011

Board Members Present:         Karen Fleming, Billie Busha, Sally Hagman,

                                                Steve Downing, Ellen Coffel

Board Members Not Present:  Don Bump, Kraig Dibb

Non-Members Present:           Dave Hagman, Lee Matson, Becky McCauley

            1.  Approval of the agenda:  There were two additions to our agenda:

4.f. Budget revisions and 5.h. Wellness Policy.  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of the minutes:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve minutes of October 18, 2011.  All in favor.

            3.  Recognizing new Board members:

Motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Karen Fleming to accept election results from Presentation Night (October 13):  Don Bump, Ellen Coffel and Steve Downing.

All in favor.

            4.  Financial report

            a.  Approval of resolutions

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve October operating receipts of $245,564.36.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve October LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Steve Downing to approve October checks 6039 thru 6104 of $138,793.77.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve October check card transactions of $2,354.22.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Karen Fleming to approve October miscellaneous disbursements of $7.30.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve October LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

Lee Matson shared Preliminary Income Statement for 2011:

Statement of Financial Activity as of October 31, 2011 and NLCS Bank Reconciliation as of 10/31/2011 were handed out.

            b.  Title One grant:

NLCS did not make AYP last year and we are at stage four of consequences.  Dave sent a letter out to parents making them aware of this situation and asking them to provide input – either in person at this board meeting or by phone or e-mail.  If we decide not to take the Title dollars this year we would make up those funds through our fund balance reserves.  Dave shared one parent response with the board and also reviewed nine possible options for a restructuring plan.  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Steve Downing to forego Title One funding for fiscal year 2012.  All in favor.

            c.  Line of Credit update:

Dave talked to Phil Hatley, Non-Profits Assistance Fund, regarding an increase in our line of credit to $200,000.  Last year Non-Profits Assistance Fund loaned $6,000,000.  They have received requests for $11,000,000 this year.  Phil was affirming that we would receive our line of credit.

            d.  Acceptance of Blandin grant:

Eric Timm, an artist from Rochester, will be joining us on our December 15^th Presentation Night and also on December 16^th for a combined assembly.  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to accept Blandin grant of $1,000 to go toward this event.

            e.  Other donations:

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to accept the following donations:

All in favor.

            f.  Budget revisions:

Lee Matson was at our meeting and shared in detail two proposed budget revisions.

RESOLUTION:  To decrease General fund revenue budget by $14,105.  This is the result of adding $19,000 for the current year Blandin grant and subtracting $33,105 of Title I aid (separate discussion – see board minutes).  The budget revision results in a revised total General Fund revenue budget of $1,533,310.

Motion made to accept this resolution to our budget by Ellen Coffel and second by Steve Downing.  All in favor.

RESOLUTION:  To increase General fund expenditure budget by $19,000.  This is the result of adding $19,000 for the current year Blandin grant and subtracting $33,105 of Title I aid (separate discussion – see board minutes).  The budget revision results in a revised total General Fund expenditure budget of $1,560,188.

Motion made to accept this resolution to our budget by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel.  All in favor.

As a result of accepting these two resolutions, our fund balance as a % of expenditures will temporarily be dropping below 20%.

            5.  Policy adoptions

            a.  Student Sex Nondiscrimination

            b.  Student, Parental, Family, and Marital Status Nondiscrimination

            c.  MDE Facility Use

            d.  MDE Suggestions, Complaint, and Whistleblower

            e.  MDE Religion

            f.  MDE Data Practices Procedures

            g.  MDE Dress Code

NLCS received this request from Minnesota Department of Education in compliance with a court order.  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve these seven policy adoptions.  All in favor.

            h.  Wellness Policy:  One change was requested in the Wellness Policy:  “The use of food or candy as a reward for student achievement is discouraged.”  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Steve Downing.  All in favor.

            6.  Program news:

            a.  Veteran’s Day Program:  Five of our students read essays.  Matt Miltich talked to interested kids before the program began.  It was an excellent program.

            b.  MAAP 101 workshop:  Suzanne Starr and Jodi Perrington attended this workshop.  This was a great networking opportunity.

            c.  Project Foundry use:

Karen shared input on Project Foundry, a management system for project based learning to track projects and grad standards.  The advisors use information from this source when credit reports are due.

            d.  Meeting with MDE Commissioner:

Many authorizers and charter school representatives had the opportunity to meet with Brenda Cassellius, MDE Commissioner.  There were small group discussions related to No Child Left Behind waiver requests and using multiple measures to determine AYP status for schools.

e.  Scheduling Special Education Parent meeting – December 15^th @ 4:30 p.m. at NLCS:

This meeting has been scheduled as part of our special education services review during the 2011-2012 school year.  Parents will be asked to complete a survey regarding our services.        

            7.  Other items:

• Marianne Jylha was present at our meeting and shared information on the Barton System, a reading and spelling tutoring system.
• Congratulations on our Haunted House; we received many fabulous comments!
• Acoustical tiles will be put up in our gym during break next week.

8.  Next meeting – December 13^th @ 3:15 p.m.

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to adjourn at 5:00 p.m.  All in favor.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

October 18, 2011

Board Members Present:         Billie Busha, Steve Downing, Kraig Dibb, Ellen Coffel,

                                                Don Bump, Karen Fleming

Board Member Not Present:   Sally Hagman

Non-Members Present:           Dave Hagman, Lee Matson, Becky McCauley

            1.  Approval of Agenda:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of Minutes:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve minutes of September 20, 2011 with one correction in section 3.b. Cash flow analysis:  We may need to borrow $203,084 during June 2012.

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to correct our August 25, 2011 minutes.  Although our board reviewed and approved both June and July financial activity during this meeting, only July’s activity was noted in the August board minutes.  All in favor.

            3.  Financial report

            a.  Approval of expenditures

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve September operating receipts of $97,688.72.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve September LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Billie Busha to approve September checks 5953 thru 6038 of $215,531.65.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Steve Downing to approve September check card transactions of $862.88.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve September miscellaneous disbursements of $10.20.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve September LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

            b.  Cash flow report:  We reviewed the Cash Flow/Treasurer’s Report.  Lee Matson mentioned there were two very large checks issued in September:

            Lake Superior High School

            $22,000.00 (purchase of bus and van)

            Northern Lights Building Company

            $56,880.85 (brought everything current – deferred rent and interest)

Since the holdback increased to 40%, we will need a larger line of credit this year and will ask Northern Lights Building Company to defer rent again.

            Becky McCauley shared Statement of Financial Activity as of 9/30/2011 as well as NLCS bank reconciliation as of same date.

            Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Don Bump to accept the following donations/grants/fundraisers:  Mattie Meillier donated clarinet with an estimated value of $100.00.  Board also approved donation of $100.00 from VFW Post 1720 to fix musical instruments.

            c.  Line of credit application:  Last year we used our $100,000 line of credit available through Non-Profits Assistance Fund.  Dave Hagman has talked to Phil Hatley to request an increase in our line of credit to $200,000.  He will get back to us with an answer by the end of October.

            d.  Cleveland Cliffs grant:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Ellen Coffel to accept $2,500 grant.  Our students will use these monies for a project to test the water quality in the Swan River.

            e.  NLCS salary schedule:  A chart showing comparison of employee pay was shared with the board.  Lee explained several factors are used to determine salaries, including #318 and other charter schools pay schedules, licensure, special education, and years at NLCS.  There is also a stipend request form available to all staff.

            4.  Director’s report

            a.  Audubon trip:  Suzanne and Chris brought a group to Audubon October 10-12.  This was a great team building experience for their advisory.

            b.  Audubon director’s meeting:  Dave attended this meeting in St. Paul.  Audubon currently authorizes 33 schools.  Steve Dess, Audubon Charter School Coordinator, has asked Dave Hagman to serve on an Advisory Committee.

            c.  Enrollment numbers:  Our most current headcount is 112 with an ADM of 109.  Our budget is based on an ADM of 104.  76% of our students are eligible for free or reduced meals as of October 1, 2011.

            d.  Math support:  Bill Adamson has been hired as our math consultant and observes and helps teach in all advisories.  Advisories are participating in geocaching activities.

            e.  Title One application – AYP status:  Dave shared 2011 AYP results.  We did not make AYP in math or reading.  Missed attendance by 34/100.  100% of our students tested in math.  One student did not test in reading.  School improvement plans are due December 30, 2011.  Minnesota applied for waiver out of NCLB.  Waiver was turned down, but will be submitted again.

            f.  Computer refurbish grant opportunity:  Jim Woehrle will be coming to NLCS next week to give us details on this opportunity through Blandin Foundation.

            5.  Personnel report

            a.  Wellness policy:  Todd Hassell and Ellen Coffel shared a draft of a Wellness Policy and would like this to replace our existing policy.  Some questions were brought up.  Ellen and Todd will do additional research and we shall discuss again at our November meeting.

            b.  Grievance procedure:  Dave Hagman shared a form that included ground rules and suggestions for dealing with the active part of this process.  Should a resolution not be reached, an outside party could be utilized – Cooperative Solutions.

            6.  Other business:

• Todd Hassell, President of Northern Lights Building Company, gave us an update on all of the construction projects that will happen this week during our break.
• Auditors will be here on Monday, October 24^th.  When the report comes in, Lee Matson will review with the board.
• Presentation Night (October 13^th):  Kraig Dibb shared parent survey results.  We received 29 responses.  All three board members that indicated an interest in staying on the board were reelected:  Don Bump, Ellen Coffel, Steve Downing.
• Charter School Board Training Retreat:  Friday evening, November 18^th, and Saturday, November 19^th, at Audubon Center of the North Woods.  Please let Dave know by Friday, November 11^th, whether you will be able to attend.
• Next board meeting – Tuesday, November 15, 2011 @ 3:15 p.m.

Meeting adjourned @ 4:45 p.m.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

September 20, 2011

Board Members Present:         Don Bump, Karen Fleming, Kraig Dibb, Ellen Coffel,

                                                Steve Downing, Sally Hagman

Board Member Not Present:   Billie Busha

Non-Members Present:           Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Lee Matson

            1.  Approval of Agenda:  After adding two items to our agenda (4.h. Wellness Policy and 5.d. AmeriCorps Update), motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of Minutes:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Ellen Coffel to approve minutes of August 25, 2011.  All in favor.

            3.  Financial Information

            a.  Approval of August financial activity

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve August operating receipts of $94,607.57.  Motion carried.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve August LOC draws of $0.00.  Motion carried.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve August checks 5914 thru 5952 of $124,727.61.  Motion carried.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Steve Downing to approve August check card transactions of $1,333.19.  Motion carried.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve August miscellaneous disbursements of $0.40.  Motion carried.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Steve Downing to approve August LOC principal payment of $100,000.00.  Motion carried.

            b.  Cash flow analysis:  Our Cash Flow / Treasurer’s Report indicates we may need to borrow $203,084 during June 2012.  We currently have a $100,000 line of credit available through MN Nonprofits Assistance Fund.

            Becky McCauley shared a rough draft of our Statement of Financial Activity as of August 31, 2011.  ADM was at 100 with a headcount of 109.  MARSS has not been submitted yet this school year.

            c.  Budget amendment to purchase mini-bus and van:  Lee Matson presented a worksheet with proposed budget revisions.  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to accept both of the following resolutions:

RESOLUTION:  To increase General fund revenue budget by $30,200 due to increase enrollment.  The budget revision results in a revised total General Fund revenue budget of $1,444,012.

RESOLUTION:  To increase General fund expenditure budget by $30,200 for purchase of additional vehicles, increase vehicle expense incidental to the purchase of the additional vehicles and reduced field trip rentals due to the purchase of the additional vehicles.  The budget revision results in a revised total General fund expenditure budget of $1,437,885.

            d.  Field trip fee:  Becky McCauley shared a summary of field trip receipts and expenditures for 2010-2011 (not including Europe or band trips).  After much discussion, motion was made by Ellen Coffel and second by Steve Downing to request $60.00 per student per school year ($10.00 per block, $15.00 per quarter).  Motion carried.  Sally Hagman abstained from voting on this agenda item.  Dave Hagman will send a letter to all families.

            4.  Programmatic information

            a.  Annual report:  Our annual report is due October 1.  Vicki Nelson will be coming to NLCS on September 21^st to talk with our staff.  Board members will receive a copy before the October 1 deadline.

            b.  AYP and testing results:  These results will be available this week.

            c.  Enrollment numbers:  Enrollment numbers are the highest ever for the start of our school year.

            d.  Presentation Night election:  Our annual meeting and election of officers will be held on October 13^th.  All three board members up for election have indicated an interest in staying on our board. 

            e.  Oven building project:  We have chosen a spot out by our shed to build this new oven.  Materials will be purchased and we will start building this next week.

            f.  TedX presentation (Olivia):  Dave Hagman and Donna Hanson attended this presentation on Monday, September 19^th.

            g.  Special education monitor work:  We are completing our self review of 10 special education files.  MDE has 60 days to review and will then schedule a visit.

            h.  Wellness Policy:  Donna Hanson has started the process of updating this policy.  A draft copy of this policy will be distributed to board members before our October board meeting.

            5.  Personnel changes

            a.  Reduction of Christel Rowe’s position:  Christel Rowe has requested to case manage six special education students this year.

            b.  Special education staffing options:  Cori Wahl and Dave Hagman will discuss options.  We currently have 43 students that qualify for special education services.

            c.  Hiring of David Copp as special education para

            d.  AmeriCorps:  NLCS will only have one position available for AmeriCorps.  Dave will give an update at our next board meeting.

            6.  Other:

Chris Morque, Project Manager, shared a letter with our board members requesting clarification on equity in pay for project managers and advisors and inquiring about our grievance procedure.  Our grievance policy will be reviewed at our next board meeting.

Ellen Coffel requested a breakdown of employee salaries for each employee.  Becky McCauley will check with EdVisions on this.

Ireland trip update:  Approximately $8,982 has been raised so far.

            7.  Adjournment:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to adjourn.  Motion carried.

Next meeting – Tuesday, October 18^th @ 3:15 p.m.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

May 10, 2011

Board Members Present:         Don Bump, Steve Downing, Kraig Dibb, Ellen Coffel,

                                                Karen Fleming, Billie Jean Busha, Sally Hagman

Non-Members Present:           Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Lee Matson

            1.  Approval of the agenda:  After one addition to our agenda (5.f. Roof job), motion was made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of the minutes:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve minutes of April 12, 2011.  All in favor.

            3.  Financial report

                 a.  Approval of financial resolutions from April, 2011

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Billie Busha and second by Steve Downing to approve April operating receipts of $84,710.93.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve April LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve April checks #5654 thru 5746 of $135,891.62.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Steve Downing to approve April check card transactions of $899.12.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Billie Busha and second by Steve Downing to approve April miscellaneous disbursements of $6.80.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve April LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

            Becky McCauley shared our Statement of Financial Activity as of April 30, 2011.  We have only received 58% of our budgeted revenue YTD.  We also reviewed Special Funding Sources as of April 30, 2011.  The only category that changed here was the monthly increase in deferred rent to Northern Lights Building Company.

                 b.  Cash flow projections:

Looking over our cash flow projections, it appears we may need to use our line of credit from MN Nonprofits Assistance Fund in June or July.  The holdback will be paid back in August, September and October.

                 c.  NLCS budget proposal for 2011-2012

Lee Matson shared some highlights for next year’s budget with the board.  There is a proposed 2% across the board pay raise included; however health insurance premiums will increase approximately 6%.  This budget was based on an ADM of 100.  The official budget will be presented at the June board meeting.

                 d.  Approval of donations

Motion to accept the following donations/fundraisers made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel.

Donations:       Presentation night 4/14/2011

                        Monetary                                             $111.40

                        Jackie Esler

                        Monetary for lunches                          $17.05

                        National Guard

                        12 basketballs

                        Estimated value                                  $72.00

                        Total donations                                                          $200.45

Fund raisers:    Band candy fundraiser                       $126.79

                        Ireland trip 2012                                 $440.00

                        Total fundraisers:                                                     $566.79

Motion carried.

Billie Busha also received $25.00 from Retired Men’s Club and $25.00 from American Legion to go toward Allison Busha’s Ireland trip.

                 e.  Approval of lease for 2011-2012

NLCS leases space from Northern Lights Building Company.  Lease terms are the same as last year ($163,500 annually, or $13,625/month).  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve 2011/2012 lease.  Motion carried.

                 f.  Approval of Special Education Director contract for 2011-2012

Motion was made by Ellen Coffel and second by Sally Hagman to continue working with Cori Wahl, Special Education Director, for the 2011/2012 school year and approve her contract.  Motion carried.

            4.  Approval of NLCS calendar for 2011-2012

Draft copy of our 2011-2012 school calendar was presented.  Our schedule would be very similar to last year, except there would not be a full week break in February 2012.  There would be 181 staff days; with the first day of school on August 29, 2011, and the last day of school on June 1.  Motion was made by Karen Fleming and second by Billie Busha to approve.  Motion carried.

            5.  Program news

                 a.  Authorizer update

Legislation has been approved by the House to extend the deadline to June 30, 2012.

                 b.  Senior project presentations

All graduating seniors are in the process of presenting senior projects.  We have 21 seniors that are planning on graduating.

                 c.  Enrollment update for 2011-2012

Ninety-four of our students are eligible to come back next year.  We have received 55 applications as of today.

                 d.  AEOA update

Between now and our June board meeting it will be necessary to determine a plan for transportation for the coming school year.  We will add this as an agenda item for June.

                 e.  Graduation plans

Graduation is scheduled for Thursday evening, May 26^th, with the barbecue starting at 5:30 p.m. and graduation ceremony at 7:00 p.m.

                 f.  Roof job

The gym roof is leaking (flat roof).  This is scheduled to be repaired next week.

            6.  Personnel team

We have met with project managers and advisors.  Dave will give update at June board meeting.

            7.  Adjourn

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to adjourn.  Motion carried.

Next board meeting:   Tuesday, June 7^th, @ 9:00 a.m.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

April 12, 2011

Board Members Present:         Don Bump, Steve Downing, Kraig Dibb, Ellen Coffel,

                                                Karen Fleming, Billie Jean Busha, Sally Hagman

Non-Members Present:           Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Lee Matson

            1.  Approval of agenda:  After adding 5.i. to our agenda (Dave’s contract), motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of minutes:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Billie Busha to approve minutes of March 7, 2011.  All in favor.

            3.  Financial report

                 a.  Approval of March expenditures:

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Karen Fleming to approve March operating receipts of $91,832.59.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve March LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve March checks #5563 thru 5653 ( includes void check #5499) of $138,587.58.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve March check card transactions of $883.48.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Steve Downing to approve March miscellaneous disbursements of $7.50.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve March LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

                 b.  Approval of donations:

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve the following grants/donations/fund raisers:

All in favor.

            Becky McCauley reviewed our Statement of Financial Activity as of March 31, 2011, comparing percentage of year expended (75%) to revenue received or expenses expended YTD.  Our current budget is based on 101 ADM.  Our most recent MARSS ADM is 105.  Our current headcount is 115.

            Becky also shared Special Funding Sources as of March 31, 2011.  Other than a couple of draws, not much has changed here.

            Lee Matson presented a budget worksheet with four proposed revisions and explained all four line items in detail.  Motion was made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to accept this resolution to our budget:  To increase General fund revenue budget by $0 and to increase General fund expenditure budget by $10,147.  The budget revision results in a revised total General fund revenue budget of $1,497,037 and a revised total General fund expenditure budget of $1,483,186.  All in favor.

            Becky and Lee looked at cash flow, and we may need to use our line of credit in late June or early July.

            The Board also reviewed NLCS bank reconciliation as of March 31, 2011, including outstanding checks.

            4.  Authorizer update

                 a.  Audubon approval:  The approved addendum to our application to Audubon Environmental Center of the Northwoods was sent to Audubon right after our March board meeting.  Audubon sent one application to MDE to review.

Audubon’s Charter School Division provides information and assistance in several areas including green schools, technology (refurbishing computers, E-rate), legislative issues.  Chuck Speiker is the Audubon liaison for NLCS.

                 b.  MDE response timeline:  MDE has 30 days to respond.

                 c.  Legislative news:  Dave Hagman gave us an update on the meeting he attended recently where Minnesota Commissioner of Education Brenda Cassellius was present.  MAAP continues to work with the Legislature on issues.  Kraig Dibb will be our Northeast Regional Representative for MAAP.

            5.  Program news

                 a.  Julie’s grant:  Motion was made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to accept $1,000 grant from Blandin Foundation for this anti-bullying program.

b.  Garden Club request for Target/Wal-Mart:  Motion to accept these

requests was made by Ellen Coffel and second by Sally Hagman.  All in favor.

                 c.  MACS membership:  General discussion was held on whether it would be beneficial for NLCS to join MACS.  There would be a fee of approximately $2,600.  Kraig Dibb will research, and this will be put on agenda for next month.

                 d.  NWEA results; Ryan Krominga visit report:  Out of 68 students, 49 students increased one point or more.  We believe our students took testing more seriously this year.

                 e.  Transportation concerns (AEOA):  After several recent meetings it has been determined that AEOA will not be able to transport our students to field trips.  NLCS parents will be informed and updated on this issue on presentation night.

                 f.  Third Quarter credit reports:  Credit reports were mailed out on Friday,

April 8^th.  At this time of the school year students should have earned 7.50 credits.  Karen was very pleased with results in her advisory.  Experiential week helped with credits.  Her students love the dashboard which provides a visual update for each student.

                 g.  Update on staff evaluations:  Staff evaluations are in progress.  Job descriptions are being looked at and advisors and project managers have been met with.  All are working well together.  Issues of concern would be pay raises and cost of insurance.

                 h.  Fund Balance Policy (policy #725); positive fund balance and deficit spending:  Tabled until next month’s meeting.

                 i.  Dave Hagman’s contract:  Motion was made by Don Bump and second by Steve Downing to extend Dave’s contract for one more year.  Motion passed.  Sally Hagman excused herself from voting on this item.

            6.  Other business:  The required report for ItascaCorp was submitted to Blandin Foundation on April 1.

            7.  Adjourn:  Motion was made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to adjourn.  All in favor.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

March 7, 2011

Board Members Present:      Kraig Dibb, Steve Downing, Ellen Coffel, Don Bump,

                                              Billie Jean Busha, Sally Hagman, Karen Fleming

Non-Members Present:         Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Lee Matson

          1.  Approval of agenda:  After adding 5.f. to our agenda (Dave Hagman to be authorized to transfer money by phone for MSDLAF), motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve agenda.  All in favor.

          2.  Approval of minutes:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve minutes of February 8, 2011.  All in favor.

          3.  Financial report:

               a.  Approval of February expenditures:

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Billie Busha to approve February operating receipts of 215,453.15.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve February LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve February checks #5489 thru #5562 (void 5492, 5541) of $126,943.84.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve February check card transactions of $866.56.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve February miscellaneous disbursements of $5.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Steve Downing to approve February LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

NLCS bank reconciliation as of 2/28/2011 was reviewed.

               b.  Approval of changes to 2010-2011 budget:

Lee Matson presented four revisions to our budget and went over them in detail.  These proposed revisions would increase General fund revenue budget by $14,000 and also increase General fund expenditure budget by $10,000 through June 2011.  This would result in a revised total General fund revenue budget of $1,497,037 and a revised total General fund expenditure budget of $1,473,039.  Projected ending fund balance, 6/30/2011, $312,281.  Fund balance as % of expenditures:  21.20%.  Motion was made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve.  All in favor.

          Sally mentioned that Itascacorp personnel have been working in the middle school advisory and have done a fantastic job down there helping with math, seminar and bonding with students.  Sally will be submitting her report on Itascacorp to Blandin Foundation by April 1.  We expect to receive $19,000 again next year for Itascacorp.

               c.  Approval of donations:

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Sally Hagman to approve the following grants/donations/fund raisers:

All in favor.

          4.  Mission and vision changes – Audubon meeting

               a.  Mission change-add:  ‘encouraged to be good stewards of our environment’

Dave met with NLCS staff this morning and also talked to several students.  All agreed we are interested in being more focused on and more involved in taking care of our environment.  Dave Hagman shared an addendum to our application to Audubon (authorizer) with our Board.  After discussion, motion was made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to make this change/addition to our Mission Statement.  All in favor.

               b.  Vision changes-add:  ‘A primary focus on experiential education that creates in NLCS students an awareness and understanding of the world they live in through the study of their environment’

               c.  Environmental goals:

Three environmental goals have been added beginning with our 2011-2012 school year.

Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to approve this addendum to our application to the Audubon Environmental Center of the Northwoods.  All in favor.

          5.  Program news

               a.  Dinner theatre success:  Karen’s group did very well for the dinner theatre production.  It was very well attended and Karen received good feedback.

               b.  Experience week feedback:  During the week of February 28-March 4 several learning experiences were scheduled.  Megan’s advisory went to Wolf Ridge;

a group of students went to the Science Museum (King Tut); and there was also a trip to Orchestra Hall and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.  It was agreed we should do this again next year with a little bit more notice so that families can budget for the events offered.

               c.  Wilder focus group:  Dave has been attending ongoing meetings with this group regarding student success in Itasca County.  Dave and Kraig brought a group of 12 students to a luncheon meeting.  Dave will share feedback with the board.

               d.  Enrollment numbers:  There are 119 kids enrolled at this point in time with an ADM of 106.

               e.  Collin Saino’s research project:  Collin Saino worked here four years ago through the Americorps program.  He is working on his master’s project and has chosen reading intervention with students.  Mary Glasnapp will be working with some of our students using the Read Naturally computer program.

               f.  Add Dave to be authorized to transfer money for MSDLAF:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Ellen Coffel to add Dave Hagman to transfer money via phone call.  All in favor.

          6.  Other: 

• Warba Centennial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 2, 2011.  Several events are being planned.  Karen’s Ireland group will be serving breakfast as a fund raiser.  There will also be a celebrity auction.  The school grounds will be used to set up a flea market.
• We are looking forward to hearing about the YouthBuild grant in April.
• Approximate 18-20 students are scheduled to graduate on May 26^th.

          7.  Adjourn:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to adjourn.  All in favor.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

February 8, 2011

Board Members Present:          Billie Jean Busha, Sally Hagman, Kraig Dibb, Steve

                                                Downing, Don Bump, Ellen Coffel, Karen Fleming

Non-Members Present:            Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Lee Matson

1.  Approval of agenda:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump to approve agenda.  All in favor.

2.  Approval of minutes from January 11^thmeeting:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve minutes of January 11, 2011.  All in favor.

3.  Financial report:

     a.  January disbursements:

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve January operating receipts of $124,676.66.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve January LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Ellen Coffel to approve January checks #5420 thru #5488, #5508 of $125,468.37.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Billie Busha to approve January check card transactions of $45.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Don Bump to approve January miscellaneous disbursements of $4.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Steve Downing and second by Karen Fleming to approve January LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

NLCS Bank Reconciliation as of January 31, 2011 was reviewed.

Becky McCauley shared Statement of Financial Activity as of January 31, 2011.  Under the revenue category, we have only received 16% of our Special Education monies YTD.

Dave Hagman will follow up on this. Special Funding Sources as of January 31, 2011 was also reviewed.  We have received $26,710.03 in Stimulus monies.  There is a balance of $8,473.59 remaining in the Microsoft reimbursement.  The $5,000 reduction in our monthly rent to NLBC began in January, so $10,000 has been deferred YTD.

                 b.  Cash flow analysis:

Lee Matson reviewed our Cash Flow/Treasurer’s Report.  It appears that we may need to use our line of credit in early May 2011.  Our current budget is based on 99 ADM.  Our most recent MARSS ADM is higher than that at 106.

                 c.  Line of credit with MN Nonprofits Assistant Fund:  Motion was made by Ellen Coffel and second by Karen Fleming to apply for $100,000 line of credit with Nonprofits Assistance Fund.  All in favor.  A copy of the corporate borrowing resolution was presented to the Board, and Karen Fleming signed as Secretary of NLCS.

                  d.  Acceptance of donations:

Motion made by Billie Busha and second by Don Bump to accept the following donations totaling $1,464.15:

All in favor.

            4.  Authorizer update:

                 a.  Audubon application and visit:  Audubon Center of the North Woods came to visit our school on Friday, February 4^th.  This site visit went very well.  Audubon’s Board of Directors will be meeting next week.

                 b.  Withdrawal of Novations application:  We have withdrawn the application to Novations.

                 c.  Extension of deadline:  We are optimistic that the deadline will be extended to June 30, 2012.

            5.  Programmatic news:

                 a.  NLCS goals and expectations:  Dave Hagman shared a spreadsheet of goals and student performance expectations at NLCS.  These include academic and non-academic areas and reflect the accountability plan for the school and its staff.

                 b.  Enrollment numbers:  Our current student headcount is at 114.  Some of our students are enrolled in PSEO; a few of our students work two or three days a week, and we also have a couple of homebound students.  With the help of our AmeriCorps workers, ItascaCorps personnel and qualified volunteers, we are doing fine at this time.  We shall address this again at our next meeting in March.

                 c.  First semester credit reports:  Credit reports have been mailed out.  Advisors will be setting up parent meetings for those students that are not making adequate progress.

                 d.  AmeriCorps application for 2011-2012:  The model for our AmeriCorps staff will be changing for the next school year.  NLCS will be asking for two AmeriCorps again.  At the current time we are considering one AmeriCorps to work from noon to 8:00 p.m.  The other AmeriCorps position would be attached to YouthBuild.

                 e.  Jennings visit:  One staff member and eight students from Jennings Experiential High School (St. Paul) are here to visit for three days.  Ice fishing is on their agenda, as well as a trip to Hibbing.

                 f.  Capitol trip on February 16^th:  A small group will be attending the MAAP Stars Legislative Day at the Capitol in St. Paul.

                 g.   Experiential week (February 28-March 4):  Several learning experiences are planned for this first week after break.  Megan’s advisory will be going to Wolf Ridge Environmental Center February 28-March 2.  There will be a group going to the Science Museum on Monday, February 28^th.  On Wednesday, March 2, there will be a trip to Orchestra Hall and the Minneapolis Institute of Arts.

             6.  Policy discussions:

                 a.  Policy on fundraising for trips:  We would like to be consistent on how students raise money to pay for trips.  We need to keep this simple as far as recordkeeping is concerned.  Give this some thought, and we shall put this on the agenda for next month.

                 b.  Third party payments:  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Don Bump to approve Policy #622 (presented by Kraig Dibb) – Third Party Billing Procedure.  All in favor.

                 c.  Enrollment caps:  We have no cap at this time.  We shall be discussing enrollment at the next board meeting.

            7.  Other business:  Thank you to Becky, Lee and Jackie for providing financials and other information needed for our monthly meetings.

            8.  Adjourn

Motion to adjourn made by Steve Downing and second by Don Bump.  All in favor.

Northern Lights Community School

Board of Directors Meeting

January 11, 2011

 Board Members Present:          Karen Fleming, Billie Jean Busha, Kraig Dibb,

                                                Sally Hagman, Ellen Coffel, Don Bump

Board Member Not Present:     Steve Downing

Non-Members Present:            Dave Hagman, Becky McCauley, Lee Matson

            1.  Approval of the agenda:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Ellen Coffel to approve agenda.  All in favor.

            2.  Approval of the minutes:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Sally Hagman to approve minutes of December 14, 2010.  All in favor.

            3.  Authorizer update:

                 a.  Northwoods’ rejection:  Dave talked to Dick Wolleat, Northwood Children’s Services.  Their application (appeal) was not approved by MDE.

                 b.  Legislative action extending the deadline:  MACS (Minnesota Association of Charter Schools) is working with legislators to extend the deadline one year (to June 30, 2012).

                 c.  Novation application:  We are getting close to submitting our application to Novations Educational Opportunities (NOE).

                 d.  Authorizer Fair at MDE on Wednesday, January 12:  Dave Hagman will be attending this fair.

            4.  Financial report:

                 a.  December expenditures:

Resolution 1:  Motion made by Billie Busha and second by Karen Fleming to approve December operating receipts of $100,429.85.  All in favor.

Resolution 2:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Sally Hagman to approve December LOC draws of $0.00.  All in favor.

Resolution 3:  Motion made by Don Bump and second by Karen Fleming to approve December checks #5354 thru #5419 of $133,628.95.  All in favor.

Resolution 4:  Motion made by Billie Busha and second by Karen Fleming to approve December check card transactions of $116.21.  All in favor.

Resolution 5:  Motion made by Ellen Coffel and second by Don Bump to approve December miscellaneous disbursements of $4.60.  All in favor.

Resolution 6:  Motion made by Sally Hagman and second by Billie Busha to approve December LOC principal payment of $0.00.  All in favor.

Becky McCauley clarified some of the expenses expended % YTD on the Statement of Financial Activity as of December 31, 2010.

NLCS bank reconciliation as of 12/31/2010 was reviewed.

                  b.  2010-2011 cash flow update:  According to our most recent Cash Flow/Treasurer’s Report, it appears we may have negative cash flow in April of 2011.

                 c.  Audit report:

Each board member received a copy of NLCS Financial Statements and Independent Auditor’s Report for the year ended June 30, 2010.  Lee Matson shared specific details regarding the audit.  ADM last year was 98.75.  Our general fund balance as of June 30, 2010 was $286,995 (close to 20%).  Motion was made by Billie Busha and second by Don Bump to accept statements and auditor’s report as of 6/30/2010.  All in favor.

                 d.  Acceptance of donations:

Motion was made by Karen Fleming and second by Ellen Coffel to accept the following donations:                                                                                               Estimated value

            Ken Seibert                  free snow plow                                                  $70.00

            Jackie Esler                  monetary donation for school lunches               $43.95

            Henry Szabla                monetary donation for stocking caps              $412.00

                                                                                                                        $491.95

Karen Fleming shared a heartfelt letter from Henry Szabla.  We will be sending a thank you and a picture to him as well.

                 e.  Approval to apply for MN Nonprofits Assistance Fund line of credit:

Motion was made by Ellen Coffel and second by Billie Busha to apply to MN Nonprofits Assistance Fund for a line of credit.  Our authorizer issue will need to be taken care of before we can submit a formal application.

                 f.  Third Party payments for mental health and other services:

Cori Wahl, our Special Education Director, explained that this procedure is legally mandated by the State of Minnesota.  Support services are currently being provided to some of our students here at NLCS by Children’s Mental Health Services two days each week.  Marge and Vern Roisum joined our meeting to explain services they could provide through their company, SCHOOL Project, located in Forest Lake, Minnesota.  Marge handed out a packet of information explaining billable and non-billable services, parent consent form, as well as other documentation required should we decide to go through them for this service.  Motion was made by Karen Fleming and second by Sally Hagman to proceed with third party billing.  All in favor.

            5.  Approval of NLCS Crisis Plan:

Several months ago a task force was formed to establish policies and procedures to assist NLCS in managing crises or tragedies that affect students, staff, families and community members.  Todd Hassell joined our meeting today to ask for board approval of this Emergency Action Plan.  Motion to accept was made by Karen Fleming and second by Billie Busha.  All in favor.  There is a three-ring binder in Becky McCauley’s office with the entire plan.  The appropriate sections will be reviewed with NLCS advisors.  Todd also mentioned that training will be required.  An intercom would be helpful between our main floor and the basement level.

            6.  Review and approval of Policy Handbook:

Kraig Dibb presented policies in the following areas  -  District, School Board, Employee, Student, Educational Program, Non-Instructional, and Facilities  -  and asked for approval of these revised policies.  Motion made by Karen Fleming and second by Don Bump to approve these policies. All in favor.  The school board shall review policies at least once every three years.

            7.  Program news:

                 a.  Enrollment update:  Our current headcount is at 105.  We are receiving many requests from new students interested in attending NLCS, so we will have to cap this at some point.  Our three-year retention rate is growing.

                 b.  MAAP Conference:

This conference will be held February 23-25 at the DECC in Duluth.  Kraig Dibb has indicated an interest in the NE Regional Director position for MAAP.

                 c.  Math focus update:

Students and staff are all learning math vocabulary together.  Ryan Krominga and Russ Davidson will be spending the afternoon with our staff on early release day – Friday,

January 21^st.

            8.  Other business:

Our school has been chosen by the US Department of Education to take part in NAEP testing (eighth graders only – math, reading and science).

            9.  Adjourn:

Motion to adjourn made by Ellen Coffel and second by Karen Fleming.  All in favor.