2005 Board of Trustees Minutes

The Board of Trustees meets regularly at 7pm on the 3rd Thursday of each month in the Boardroom of the Central Administration Building on 510 West Mercer Street.

Official minutes available at the Superintendent's Office.
This site is posted for information only.
 

TIP:    When searching for specific information try searching by going to the
            toolbar at the top select EDIT, select Find (on this page),
            find what:  (type in the least bit of information or word), select Find Next. 

Trustee Minutes for:
01-13-2005
01-20-2005
01-27-2005
02-17-2005

02-26-2005
03-13-2005
03-23-2005
04-11-2005
04-21-2005
05-15-2005
05-19-2005
05-31-2005
06-16-2005 Hearing
06-16-2005
07-21-2005
08-15-2005
08-18-2005
09-10-2005
09-27-2005 Hearing
09-27-2005
10-07-2005
10-20-2005
10-26-2005
11-17-2005

12-08-2005
12-15-2005


Board Minutes for 2005

Minutes, January 13, 2005                                                                    DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
7:00pm Conference Room 109


I.    The January 13, 2005 SPECIAL CALLED BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order at 7:10pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Absent were John Moore, Susie Dudley, and Eddie Oliver. Also present were Mary Ward, Dwane Shropshire, Darlene Callender, and Greg Jung.
II.    Discussion/Action Items:
A.    Greg Jung presented the 2005-2006 High School Course Catalog and entertained discussion and questions from Board and other administrators.  Following extensive discussion, Bill Brock made the motion to approve the 2005-2006 Dripping Springs High School Course Catalog.  Second by Steve Benesh.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
B.    Darlene Callender and Greg Jung led discussion on policies EIC (Local): Class Ranking and EIE (Local):  Promotion and Retention.  No action was requested at this time.

At this time, Mrs. Ward distributed an updated copy of the Decision Points relating to the upcoming bond issue and future building program.

C.    Mrs. Ward led discussion relating to DSISD Grade Configuration Task Force recommendations (report submitted to Board of Trustees December 16, 2004).  Following discussion, Steve Benesh made the motion to approve the recommendation of the Grade Configuration Task Force and that upon completion of new and expanded facilities that all three elementary campuses be designated as K – 5 grade configuration.  Second by Tim Kurpiewski.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
D.    Mrs. Ward led the discussion regarding architectural/design services for facilities included in the bond issue.  She informed the Board that even with Bill Adair passing and Daniel Perez leaving O’Connell Robertson, the administration would still like to do some design work with O’Connell Robertson, but with the new facility design done by Fields and Associates.  Mrs. Ward stated that such a monumental decision should involve all board members and asked that the decision be made at the January 20th Board meeting.
E.    Mrs. Ward led the discussion regarding project management/owner representation in the future building program.  She expressed the concern that the voluminous RFQ for project management would deter individuals from responding.  She provided information about how Round Rock ISD handles construction management. Mr. Shropshire and Mr. Davis expressed their preference in working with an individual contractor or employee by the District for construction management.   Mrs. Ward asked for the direction to advertise and/or recruit and individual, before putting out the RFQ to solicit project management firm responses.  Following extensive discussion, Bill Brock made the motion to contract with or employ and individual for project management.  Second by Steve Benesh.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
F.    Mrs. Ward reminded board members and administration that all comments regarding the draft of the Elementary Educational Specifications were due no later than January 21st.  There was discussion and expressed interest regarding concrete masonry walls as opposed to sheet rock internal walls.  No action was needed.  Such items would be approved with the adoption of the Educational Specifications.
G.    Mrs. Ward provided a draft of the membership, mission, and charge for the Secondary Schools Study Group.  She asked board members to submit any additional names before the January 20th board meeting.
H.    Mrs. Ward presented the recommendation from the District-wide Educational Improvement Council (DWEIC) for the 2005-2006 school calendar.  DWEIC recommended seeking a waiver for early start date from the Texas Education Agency because with August 21 falling on Sunday, there are numerous issues (written rationale provided).  Several area schools were identified as seeking early start dates for same reasons.  Following discussion, Tim Kurpiewski made the motion to approve seeking a waiver for start date of August 16th and approving the 2005-2006 calendar if waiver is granted.  Second by Steve Benesh.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
I.    Mr. Shropshire and Mr. Davis discussed roof issues with the Stephenson Building.  It was requested that the Facility Committee discuss and make a recommendation to the Board of Trustees regarding the future of the Stephenson Building in order to provide direction for the extent of roof and related work.
III.    The Board entered close session at 10:00 PM to discuss the following items:
A.    Discussion of Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters.
1.    Personnel
a)    Board did not discuss a Student Services Coordinator.
b)    Middle School Special Education staffing was discussed.
IV.    The Board then reentered open session at 10:11 PM and took no action.
V.    Announcements: None at this time.
VI.    The Board adjourned at 10:12 PM.

Official minutes adopted on February 17, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, January 20, 2005                                                                             DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
5pm Conference Room 109
7pm Boardroom

I.    The January 20, 2005 REGULAR BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order at 7:08pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, John Moore, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh and Tim Kurpiewski in attendance. Absent were Susie Dudley (arrived at 7:10pm) and Eddie Oliver. Also present were Mary Ward, Dwane Shropshire, Darlene Callender, Mike Cave, Donna Janssen, Tyler Damron, Greg Jung, Debby Theis, Kim Gravell, Howard Ballard, Dan Davis, Larry McGilvray, Keith Lancaster, Derek Woods, Eddie Briskey, Jay Larson, Felixa Walton, President of Dripping Springs Education Association, Band parents: Mary Sams and Sue Munns, Band students: Tim Sams, Justin Glosson, Andy Foss-Grant and Skyler Passino.

II.    Opening Ceremony:
•    Ron Hill led the pledge of allegiance to the American Flag and the Texas Flag.
•    Lenny Olson invited the audience to join him in a moment of silence.
III.    Public Forum: None at this time.
IV.    Superintendent’s Report:
A.    Awards/Recognitions:
1.    The following people expressed their appreciation of the Board Members in honor of School Board Recognition Month:
•    Felixa Walton, president of Dripping Springs Education Association.
•    Mike Cave, Principal of the Primary School.
•    Donna Janssen, Principal of the Intermediate School.
•    Tyler Damron, Principal of the Middle School.
•    Greg Jung, Principal of the High School.
•    Mrs. Ward read aloud a proclamation from Todd Purcell, Mayor of the City of Dripping Springs.
•    Mary Ward, Superintendent presented certificates of appreciation.
B.    Dwane Shropshire, Assistant Superintendent for Business Operations reported on the following items:
•    Discussed the 2005-2006 budget process and passed out a Budget Planning Calendar as an overview.
•    Child Nutrition Department comprehensive review from the Department of Agriculture: February 3, 2005.
•    Handed out a draft for discussion only of proposed changes to F.I.R.S.T.
•    Handed out a Bond Program Brochure regarding the March 5, 2005 Bond Election and then reported that the brochure will be mailed to all DSISD residents.
•    Keith Lancaster, Band Director and Derek Woods, Assistant Band Director gave and overview of the new design for band uniforms.  They had students Tim Sams and Justin Glosson demonstrate the new uniform design versus the current uniform. They passed the uniforms around for Board members to examine and entertained questions and comments from the Board. Board addressed the parents and students in the audience and asked what they thought about the new design.  Both students and parents in the audience agreed that white pants have always been a trademark for Dripping Springs and noted that they like the new design.
C.    Superintendent’s Office:
1.    Darlene Callender, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction reported on the following items:
•    AEIS report arrived. Administration will hold a public hearing at the February Board meeting to discuss its contents.
•    A & M Drug survey will be reviewed in a workshop.
2.    Ron Hill, Director of Human Resources reported on the following items:
•    Staffing: Need bus mechanic and bus drivers.
•    In the process of doing a salary study for next school year budget.
3.    Mary Ward, Superintendent reported on the following items:
•    Enrollment figures.
•    Legislative report.
•    Development matrix update.
•    Important dates:
•    Community Leaders Breakfast set for Thursday, January 27, 2005.
•    DSYSA Basketball turnout.
V.    Action/Report Items:
A.    Mary Ward led discussion regarding contracting with Hays County Elections Office to conduct the May 7, 2005 School Board Election. Following discussion, Susie Dudley made the motion, second by Tim Kurpiewski to approve a contract with the Hays County Elections Office to conduct the May 7, 2005 DSISD School Board Election.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
B.    Mary Ward led discussion regarding Texas Tech University Hill Country Network. John Moore made the motion, second by Bill Brock to approve the resolution in support for funding Texas Tech University (TTU) Hill Country Educational Network and the TTU Center at Junction.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
C.    Lenny Olson and Bill Brock led discussion regarding Toll Road Communication. Mr. Olson shared a drafted letter from the Board in support of the position taken by Representative Rose regarding Toll Roads that will directly affect DSISD staff and students.  Following discussion, Bill Brock made the motion, second by Susie Dudley to approve the proposed letter with edits from the Board to send to State Representative Patrick Rose in support of his position on Toll Roads.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
D.    The Board discussed the following policies and took the following action:
•    DSISD Local Policy EIE:  Retention and Promotion discussed as information only.
•    DSISD Local Policy EIC: Academic Achievement: Class Ranking discussed as information only.
•    DSISD Local Policy EFE:  Copyrighted Material discussed as information only.
•    TASB Local Update 73 as information only.
•    TASB Local Update 74 as information only.
•    Following discussion, Steve Benesh made the motion, second by Bill Brock to approve the guidelines recommended by the administration for Gifts and Memorials as presented. After further discussion by the board, Steve Benesh withdrew his motion. The Board determined that more discussion was needed. Lenny Olson directed Board members interested in further discussion to meet with Administrators and counselors to discuss further and bring back to the Board in February.
E.    Facility Committee Report:
•    Mary Ward handed out an update on decision points. Bill Brock led discussion regarding architectural/design services for future building program(s). Following discussion, Bill Brock made the motion, second by Tim Kurpiewski to award contract to Fields and Associates for Architectural design for the proposed new Elementary School and award the contract to O’Connell Robertson and Associates for design services for the Intermediate School expansion.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
•    Bill Brock led discussion regarding owner organization for Project Management for Future Building Program(s). Following discussion, Susie Dudley recommended administration to proceed in using a project manager. The Board directed the Superintendent to work toward that direction.
•    Bill Brock led discussion regarding Educational Specification for Elementary Schools. All comments are due by January 21, 2005.
•    Mary Ward led discussion regarding Secondary Schools Study Group. Following discussion, Steve Benesh made the motion, second by Susie Dudley to accept the initial pool of candidates for the Secondary Schools Study Group as presented, with the ability to supplement that list at a later date, and to accept the Mission, Charge, and Parameters for the Secondary Schools Study Group as presented.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
•    Bill Brock, representing the Facility Committee, notified the Board of unapproved construction being done at the High School on the concession stand.
•    Bill Brock recommended the board do a site visit at the Stephenson Building.
F.    Parks Commission Report:
•    Lenny Olson had nothing to report at this time regarding the participation in drilling an Irrigation Well at Dripping Springs Sports Park.
G.    Finance Committee Report:
•    Tim Kurpiewski had nothing to report at this time.
VI.    Bill Brock made the motion, second by Tim Kurpiewski to approve Consent Agenda as presented with one correction to the minutes of December 16, 2004:
A.    Minutes for the following Meetings:  December 13, 2004 and December 16, 2004.
B.    Monthly Tax/Financial Reports and Expenditures.
C.    Investment Report.
D.    Tax Refunds Over $500 (if submitted).
E.    Budget Amendments.
F.    Any Leave-Of-Absences and/or New Personnel Contracts.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

VII.    Announcements: Susie Dudley announced that she will be attending the TASB Capital Conference. Mary Ward reminded Board to RSVP for the Community Leaders Breakfast.

VIII.    At this time, 10:35pm the Board went into Closed Session to discuss the following items:
A.    Consultation with Legal Counsel Regarding Pending Level 3 Hearing.
B.    Discussion of Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters.
1.    Student Services Coordinator.
2.    Property Acquisition.
3.    Superintendent Evaluation.
4.    Superintendent Contract.
Steve Benesh left at 11:30pm.

IX.    The Board reentered Open Session on January 21, 2005 at 12:37am and took the following action(s):
A.    No action was taken regarding pending level 3 hearing.
B.    Possible action on Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters Pursuant to Discussion in Closed Session.
1.    Student Services Coordinator was not discussed.
2.    No action was taken regarding property acquisition.
3.    John Moore made the motion, second by Susie Dudley to extend the Superintendent’s contract to June 30, 2007, and authorize the President to negotiate details of contract.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
X.    Board adjourned at 12:42am.

Official minutes adopted on February 17, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, January 27, 2005                                                                        DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
Board Room
7:00AM

I. 
   The January 27, 2005 SPECIAL CALLED BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order at 7:15am by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum was not present with only members Lenny Olson, Bill Brock, and Steve Benesh in attendance. Absent were Tim Kurpiewski, John Moore, Susie Dudley, and Eddie Oliver. Also present were 46 attendees representing the Dripping Springs community.

II.    Community Leaders’ Breakfast: Mary Ward introduced State Representative Patrick Rose and asked him to inform the attendees of the latest issues related to education in the legislation. Mary Ward asked all attendees to introduce themselves.  Mary Ward and Dwane Shropshire then gave a power point presentation and led discussion on the state of the District, its immediate challenges, and the school bond program and entertained questions from the audience.
Ted Lehr, Scott McAfee, and Mike Figer, members of the Friends of Dripping Springs Education presented their formation.

III.    Announcements: None at this time.

IV.    The Board adjourned at 8:30am.

Official minutes adopted on February 17, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, February 17, 2005                                                                                            DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
5pm Conference Room 109
7pm Boardroom

I.    The February 17, 2005 REGULAR BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order to conduct a Workshop at 5:15pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present for a workshop session with members Lenny Olson, John Moore, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh, Susie Dudley, Eddie Oliver, and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Also present were Administrators: Mary Ward, Darlene Callender, Mike Cave, Tyler Damron, Greg Jung, and Ron Hill
II.    Workshop:
A.    Budget Workshop #1.
B.    Guidelines for Gifts and Memorials.
C.    Guidelines for Uniform Selection.
The Board recessed at 6:45pm from the workshop session and reconvened in Regular Session at 7:12pm.  Lenny Olson, Board President, noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, John Moore, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh, Susie Dudley, Eddie Oliver, and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Also present were Administrators: Mary Ward, Darlene Callender, Mike Cave, Donna Janssen, Tyler Damron, Greg Jung, Debby Theis, Rhonda Whitman, Dan Davis, Larry McGilvray, Gracy Capelo, Ron Hill, Sandy Gravenor, Abby Gode, Tracy Neef, and a number of members of the public.

III.    Opening Ceremony:
•    Amy McCarty, 7th grade English teacher and sponsor of the Middle School Council introduced Student Council members; President Rachel Bounds and Historian and Parliamentary Katie Adams.  Rachel Bounds informed the board of Student Council projects completed and that are coming up. The girls then led the pledge of allegiance to the American Flag and the Texas Flag.
•    Lenny Olson invited the audience to join him in a moment of silence.
IV.    Public Forum:
•    Friends of the Dripping Springs Education, Ted Lehr informed the Board of their efforts in the community regarding the Bond issue.
•    Parent of the district, Sheri Donovan provided the Board a folder of information regarding dyslexia and introduced the Dripping Springs Chapter of the International Dyslexia Society.

V.    Superintendent’s Report:
A.    No awards or recognitions were given at this time.
B.    Public Hearings:
1.    Mr. Olson called a public hearing at 7:20pm for the 2005-2006 School Calendar:  Waiver for early start date. Mary Ward gave a presentation and entertained questions and comments from the audience. The hearing then closed at 7:31pm.
2.    Mr. Olson called a public hearing at 7:31pm for the Academic Excellence Indicator System (AEIS) report. Darlene Callender made a presentation and entertained questions and comments from the audience. The hearing then closed at 8:20pm.

C.    Business Operations had nothing to report at this time.

D.    Darlene Callender, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction reported on the following items:
1.    DSISD Professional Development Plan.
2.    Project Status:
a)    Counselors are working on a district alignment of the character education program an emergency preparedness for trauma and loss.
b)    Librarians are beginning the development of a district web page and a Library Media Services Handbook. They are also in the process of developing an Annual Library Media Center Report.
c)    Nurses are beginning the development of a district web page and a Health Services Handbook.
d)    GT Coordinators are completing a stratified random sampling of students to statistically establish scores to be used for cut-off scores in identifying the initial placement of students into the GT program.
e)    ESL Coordinators are learning the new testing requirements and the new accountability system for LEP students.
3.    Physical/Echocardiograms for students in extracurricular activities.

E.    Ron Hill, Director of Human Resources reported on the following:
1.    Staffing.

F.    Mary Ward, Superintendent reported on the following items:
1.    Enrollment figures.
2.    Legislative report.
3.    Region XIII, Board of Directors, 2 positions to file. Applications deadline February 20th.
4.    Development issues.
5.    Important dates:
•    April 16, 2005, A company with a trailer that will be collecting old computers and monitors and other equipment can be dropped off for free or small fee in the Administration parking lot.
•    157 votes in two days during bond issue early voting.
•    School Board filing: February 5th through March 7th.
•    Dodson reception: February 20th.
•    Secondary School Study Group: February 22nd.
•    School Board Academy: February 24th.
•    TASB Summer Leadership: June 23-25.
VI.    Action/Report Items:
A.    Steve Benesh read aloud the order of election. Following discussion, Eddie Oliver made the motion, second by Susie Dudley to adopt the 2005 Order of Election for DSISD Board of Trustees as amended.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
B.    Lenny Olson read aloud the DSISD Board of Trustees training credits as follows:
                                    BOARD MEMBER TRAINING HOURS AS OF 02/17/05:

                                                                                May 2004 to Current                            Total To-Date:

Benesh, Steve               27.75                                                        27.75
Brock, Bill                     10.50                                                        52.25
Dudley, Susie                27.50                                                        193.50
Kurpiewski, Tim            11.50                                                        36.00
Moore, John                  14.00                                                        102.25
Oliver, Eddie                  39.25                                                        125.00
Olson, Leonard              10.75                                                        132.25

C.    Mary Ward led discussion to change the regular meeting date in March due to Spring Break. Following discussion, Steve Benesh made the motion, second by Susie Dudley to change the March 17, 2005 regular meeting date to Wednesday, March 23, 2005 due to Spring Break.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
D.    Mary Ward led discussion to join the Heart of Texas Area School Board Association. Following discussion, Susie Dudley made the motion, second by Steve Benesh to join the Heart of Texas Area School Board Association.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
E.    Darlene Callender led discussion the 2004-2005 Ad Hoc Textbook committee. Following discussion, John Moore made the motion, second by Eddie Oliver to adopt the 2004-2005 Ad Hoc Textbook selection committee as presented.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
F.    Greg Jung, Abby Gode, and Tracy Neef led the discussion and entertained question regarding the 2005-2006 Cheerleading and Hi-Stepper Constitutions.
G.    Administration and Board discussed following local policies and took the following actions.
•    No discussion was needed at this time on the DSISD Local Policy EIE:  Retention and Promotion.
•    Greg Jung and Darlene Callender led discussion on policies EIC and EFE. Following discussion, Bill Brock made the motion, second by Eddie Oliver to adopt the DSISD Local Policy EIC: GPA and EFE:  Copyrighted Material as first reading.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
•    Discussion took place in workshop. Recommendations have been submitted to administration for the Guidelines for Gifts and Memorial.
•    Board directed administration draft Guidelines for Uniform Selection.
•    TASB Local Update 73 for review only at this time.
•    TASB Local Update 74 for review only at this time.

H.    The Facility Committee report was given as follows:
1.    Decision Points for Building Program.
2.    Mary Ward led discussion regarding the DSISD Elementary School Educational Specifications. Following discussion, Eddie Oliver made the motion, second by Bill Brock to adopt the DSISD Elementary School Educational Specifications as a living/working draft document.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
3.    Mary Ward led discussion regarding and Inter-local Agreement with Round Rock ISD for Project Management Services.
4.    Nothing to report on the Stephenson Building.
I.    Lenny Olson had nothing to report on the Parks Commission:
J.    Tim Kurpiewski had nothing to report regarding the Finance Committee.
VII.    Eddie Oliver made the motion, second by Steve Benesh to approve Consent Agenda as presented to include personnel recommendations:
A.    Minutes for the following Meetings: January 13, 2005, January 20, 2005, and January 27, 2005.
B.    Monthly Tax/Financial Reports and Expenditures.
C.    Investment Report.
D.    Tax Refunds Over $500 (if submitted).
E.    Budget Amendments.
F.    Any Leave-Of-Absences and/or New Personnel Contracts.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY

VIII.    Announcements:  Mary Ward reminded Board of the reception at Primary School for naming the library to be held on February 20, 2005 at 2pm. Mrs. Ward reminder Board of the School Board Candidate Academy for February 24, 2005 at 7pm in the Administration Building C109. John Moore commended DSISD Athletics behavior during a game with Lake Travis.

IX.    At this time, 10:20pm the Board went into Closed Session to discuss the following items:
A.    Consultation with Legal Counsel Regarding Pending Level 3.
B.    Acquisition of Property.
C.    Discussion of Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters.
1.    Evaluation and Contracts for DSISD Administrative Positions.
X.    The Board reentered Open Session at 11:58pm and took the following action:
A.    Possible action on Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters Pursuant to Discussion in Closed Session.
1.    Susie Dudley made the motion, second by John Moore to approve contracts for DSISD Administrative positions as recommended.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
XI.    Board adjourned at 12:00am, February 18, 2005.

Official minutes adopted on March 23, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top


Minutes, February 26, 2005                                                                                            DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
Boardroom
9:00 AM


I.    The February 23, 2005 SPECIAL CALLED BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order at 9:03 am by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh, John Moore and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Absent were Susie Dudley and Eddie Oliver. Also present were Mary Ward, Oscar Trevino (attorney with Walsh, Anderson, Brown, Schulze and Aldridge, P.C.), Christine Badillo (attorney with Walsh, Anderson, Brown, Schulze and Aldridge, P.C.), Ron Hill, Greg Jung, Laura Lake, Joey Moore (attorney with TSTA), and five members of the public.

II.    Consideration and Possible Action regarding Level 3 employee grievance brought by Laura Lake.  Pursuant to Texas Government Code 551.074, 551.082 and 551.0821, the grievance will be heard in closed session because no officer of the District requested open session and student confidentiality rights are involved.  Any action will be taken in open session.

III.    Members of the public were asked to leave the room and Board entered closed session at 9:05 AM. Board entered open session at 2:38 PM. John Moore made the motion to uphold the Level 2 decision, and deny employee’s complaint and remedies requested.  Second by Tim Kurpiewski.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
IV.    Announcements:
V.    Board adjourned at 2:46 PM.

Official minutes adopted on March 23, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, March 13, 2005                                                                                            DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
Conference Room 109
1:30 pm

I.    The March 13, 2005 SPECIAL CALLED BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order for the special purpose of canvassing and declaring the results of the 2005 Bond Election at 1:36 pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, Steve Benesh, and John Moore in attendance. Absent were Susie Dudley, Tim Kurpiewski, Bill Brock, and Eddie Oliver. Members absent had signed appropriate Waiver of Notice and Consent to Special Meeting.  Also present was Superintendent Mary Ward.

II.    Trustee Lenny Olson opened the envelopes provided by the Hays County Elections Office containing the results of the 2005 Dripping Springs ISD Bond Election held on March 5, 2005.  Board members reviewed the results.  Trustee Olson read aloud the Resolution Canvassing the Returns and Declaring the Results of the Bond Election. Trustee Steve Benesh made the motion to adopt the Resolution as read.  Second by Trustee Moore.  (Said Resolution is attached and made a part of these minutes.)
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
III.    Announcements:
•    Reminder of March Board Meeting change due to Spring Break (Wednesday, March 23rd at 6:00 PM).
•    TAKS Reading results for 3rd grade is 96% and 5th grade is 92%.
•    Training by Laura Fowler regarding purchasing of property cannot occur on March 30th and must be rescheduled for April.
IV.    The Board adjourned at 2:00 PM.

Official minutes adopted on April 21, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, March 23, 2005                                                                                            DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
Boardroom
6PM


I.    The March 23, 2005 REGULAR BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:08pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh, Eddie Oliver, and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Absent were John Moore and Susie Dudley. Also present were: Mary Ward, Darlene Callender, Mike Cave, Rhonda Whitman, Greg Jung, Kim Gravell, Donna Janssen, Debbie Higgs, Keith Lancaster, Mike Wood, Mike Figer, Kathy Nichols, Dan Davis, Larry McGilvray, Debby Theis, Dan Wegmiller, Chrissi McMullen, John Adams, Norma Dale, Tyler Damron (arrived at 7:11pm), and Ron Hill
II.    Workshop was CANCELED:
A.    Budget Workshop #2 will be rescheduled.
III.    Opening Ceremony:
•    HS Principal, Greg Jung and School Resource Officer, Mike Wood led the pledge of allegiance to the American Flag and the Texas Flag.
•    Lenny Olson invited the audience to join him in a moment of silence.
IV.    Public Forum:
•    Ted Lehr, Friends of the Dripping Springs Education, introduced the members of the organization and recognized their efforts on the Bond Program.
V.    Superintendent’s Report:
A.    Lenny Olson presented a certificate to DSISD School Resource Officer, Mike Wood in recognition of being awarded Hays County’s Deputy of the Year.
B.    Business Operations: Dan Wegmiller, First Southwest Company, congratulated the Board on the passing of the Bond. He then reported on Bond sales process and entertained questions from the Board.
C.    Darlene Callender, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction reported on the following items:
•    No Child Left Behind: Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) report.
•    Kathy Nichols reported on physicals/echocardiograms for students in extracurricular activities.
•    TAKS scores.
D.    Ron Hill, Director of Human Resources reported on the following items:
1.    University of Texas job fair.
2.    Staffing.
3.    TSTA Health Care survey.
E.    Mary Ward, Superintendent reported on the following items:
•    Enrollment figures.
•    Student Code of Conduct preview.
•    Legislative report.
•    Development issues.
•    CATE/OCR visit.
•    School Board Election date and sites.
•    Important dates:
•    School Board Election scheduled for May 7th from 7am to 7pm.
•    Girls Soccer playoffs scheduled for March 24th.
•    Boys Soccer playoffs next week.
•    Tiger relays scheduled for March 24th.
•    Boys and Girls Softball/Baseball doing very well.
•    Technology recycle scheduled for April 9th.
•    District closed Friday for Good Friday holiday March 25th.
•    Education Service Center will not hold Elections.
•    Bankruptcy report regarding ITFS.
•    Laura Fowler: Training date to be set.
VI.    Action/Report Items:
A.    Darlene Callender introduced the Health Advisory Counsel Committee members. Members led discussion and entertained questions from the Board regarding the 2004-2005 textbook viewing. Darlene Callender discussed the 2003-04 unfunded textbooks. Following discussion, Bill Brock made a motion, second by Eddie Oliver to adopt all titles of the 2004-2005 textbook titles and the 2003-2004 unfunded textbook titles as recommended.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
B.    Mary Ward and Keith Lancaster led discussion regarding bids for band uniforms. Following discussion, Tim Kurpiewski made the motion, second by Eddie Oliver, to award the bid for band uniforms to the Fred Miller Company and accept the $84,000 quote as recommended. Following the motion, Steve Benesh commended Keith Lancaster on the recent Band trip and its success.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
C.    Mary Ward and Greg Jung led discussion regarding bids for Hi-Stepper dance team uniforms. Following discussion, Steve Benesh made the motion, second by Tim Kurpiewski, to award the bid for the Hi-Stepper dance team uniforms to Reynolds amount of $15,036.00 as recommended.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
D.    Mary Ward, Darlene Callender, and Mike Cave led discussion and entertained questions from the Board regarding the following local policies:
•    DSISD Local Policy EIC:  GPA, Second Reading
•    DSISD Local Policy EIE:  Retention and Promotion, First Reading
•    DSISD Local Policy EFE:  Copyrighted Material, First Reading (for review again)
•    TASB Local Update 73:  First Reading
•    TASB Local Update 74:  First Reading
Following discussion, Steve Benesh made the motion, second by Eddie Oliver, to adopt the local policies as recommended.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
 E.    Eddie Oliver and Mary Ward gave the Facility Committee report as follows:
•    Architectural contracts for building projects are being reviewed by attorneys.
•    Eddie Oliver led discussion regarding the new Elementary campus site. Following discussion, Eddie Oliver made the motion, second by Bill Brock to officially identify Belterra as the site for the new Elementary campus.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
•    Decision points for building program:  Levels of Authority need to be defined.
•    Inter-local Agreement with Round Rock ISD for Project Management Services is being reviewed by attorneys.
•    Eddie Oliver led discussion regarding the authorization of bids for restroom project in 300 wing of Administration Building. Following discussion, Eddie Oliver made the motion, second by Bill Brock to authorize bids for restroom project in 300 wing of the Administration Building.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
•    Air condition/cooler project for the Primary School is moving forward.
•    Bond projects are being scheduled.
•    Summer projects are being scheduled.
•    Facility Use Policy and Fee Schedule is being reviewed.
•    Site visit is to be scheduled for the Stephenson building.
•    Mary Ward informed the Board that the Administration Building and Intermediate School campus parking lots will be used during Founders Day.
F.    Lenny Olson had nothing to report for Parks Commission. Appointment of a new representative will need to take place during the June meeting.
G.    Mary Ward and Debbie Higgs reported on the Finance Committee as follows:
1.    Following discussion, Tim Kurpiewski made the motion, second by Steve Benesh to Cattleman’s Bank Depository Bids.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
VII.    Steve Benesh made the motion, second by Eddie Oliver to approve Consent Agenda as presented:
A.    Minutes for the following Meetings: February 17, 2005 and February 26, 2005.
B.    Monthly Tax/Financial Reports and Expenditures.
C.    Investment Report.
D.    Tax Refunds Over $500 (if submitted).
E.    Budget Amendments.
F.    Any Leave-Of-Absences and/or New Personnel Contracts.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
VIII.    Announcements:
•    Soccer playoffs.
•    Track meet.
 IX.    At this time, 8:45pm the Board went into Closed Session to discuss the following items:
A.    Discussion of Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters.
1.    Evaluation and Contracts for Teachers and Other Certified Professional Staff.
X.    The Board reentered Open Session at 10:30pm and took the following action:
A.    Possible action on Personnel, Legal, Student Discipline and/or Real Estate Matters Pursuant to Discussion in Closed Session.
1.    Steve Benesh made the motion to approve 2005-2006 contract renewals for Hays Blanco Special Education Coop staff, teachers, counselors, librarians, nurses, and athletic trainer, as recommended by campus administration. Second by Bill Brock.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
2.    Eddie Oliver made the motion to authorize Superintendent to negotiate settlement agreement for pending resignation to Hays Blanco Special Education Coop employee. Second by Bill Brock.
MOTION CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
XI.    Board adjourned at 10:35pm.

Official minutes adopted on April 21, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, April 11, 2005                                                                                                                DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
Board Room
6:30 PM

I.    The April 11, 2005 SPECIAL CALLED BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order at 6:41pm by John Moore, Board Vice President, who noted a quorum present with members John Moore, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh, Susie Dudley, Eddie Oliver, and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Absent was Lenny Olson. Also present were Mary Ward, Dwane Shropshire, Darlene Callender, Donna Janssen, Dan Davis, Laura Fowler and April Daniels (both of Henslee, Fowler, Hepworth & Schwartz).

II.    Mrs. Ward introduced Laura Fowler of Henslee, Fowler, Hepworth & Schwartz.  Mrs. Fowler conducted board training (handout provided) regarding all related issues to acquisition of real property.  Mrs. Fowler was assisted by her assistant, April Daniels.

III.    Action Items:
A.    Mrs. Shropshire discussed the framework and current status of the contracts for architectural services with Fields and Associates and O’Connell Robertson.  No action was taken.  Contracts should be ready for the April 21st board meeting; however, if a few details remain, administration may request authorization to finalize and execute the contracts.  Mrs. Fowler provided comments on aspects of the contracts as the reviewing attorney.
B.    Mr. Shropshire discussed the current status of the inter-local agreement with Round Rock ISD for Project Management Services.  No action was taken.  The contract should be ready for the April 21st board meeting; however, if a few details remain, administration may request authorization to finalize and execute the contracts.  Again Mrs. Fowler provided comments on aspects of the contracts as the reviewing attorney.
C.    Mrs. Ward provided copy of “Decision Points for the Building Program” and discussed the necessity to finalize the levels of authority for architects, project management, administration, facility committee of the board, and the whole board.  She expressed her concern for the availability of the facility committee, the demand on everyone’s time over the two-year span of the project, and duplication of time and effort between the facility committee and the whole board.  Following discussion, it was determined that Mrs. Ward would draw up a flowchart and provide as a basis for discussion and decision making.
IV.    Announcements:
•    Mr. Oliver discussed the last session of the TASB Leadership Class.
•    Mr. Benesh discussed teaching a Government Class in another high school.

V.    Mary Ward, Superintendent reported on the following:
•    Technology Recycling Event was success and will be repeated in October.
•    Founder’s Day is April 15 – 17, 2005.
•    School Board Candidate Forum is Monday, April 18th, 7:00 PM in High School Library.
•    Early voting for School Board Elections starts Wednesday, April 20, 2005.
•    Agenda setting is Thursday, April 14, 2005
•    Board meeting is Thursday, April 21, 2005
•    Board agenda will reflect both Level 3 Hearing and Budget Workshop in case the hearing does not take place.  We need Budget Workshop #3.
•    Transition Plan to K – 5.
•    Transition Matrix provided and discussed.
•    Process for setting attendance zones was discussed.
•    PK/PPC will remain at Primary School.
•    Teachers for 3rd grade sections at Intermediate School have been selected.
•    Drafts of parent/student notification letters provided and discussed.

VI.    The Board adjourned at 10:05pm.

Official minutes adopted on April 21, 2005 and signed by Lenny Olson, President and Eddie Oliver, Secretary of the DSISD Board of Trustees.

back to top



Minutes, April 21, 2005                                                                                            DSISD Board of Trustees
Administration Building
510 West Mercer Street
5pm Conference Room 109
7pm Boardroom


I.    The April 21, 2005 REGULAR BOARD meeting of the Dripping Springs Independent School Board of Trustees was called to order to conduct a Workshop at 5:10pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, Bill Brock, Steve Benesh, John Moore, Susie Dudley, and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Absent was Eddie Oliver. Also present were: Mary Ward, Mike Cave, and Steve Spencer.
II.    Workshop:
A.    The Board entered Closed Session at 5:11pm in accordance with Texas Government Code, Section 551.074 to discuss a Level 3 hearing of a parent complaint by Steve Spencer against a District employee regarding an attendance reporting issue.
B.    Budget Workshop #2 was not discussed at this time. Will need to be rescheduled.
The Board recessed at 7:07pm from the closed session and reconvened in Regular Session at 7:15pm by Lenny Olson, Board President, who noted a quorum present with members Lenny Olson, Bill Brock, John Moore, Susie Dudley, Steve Benesh, and Tim Kurpiewski all in attendance. Absent was Eddie Oliver. Also present were: Mary Ward, Dwane Shropshire, Darlene Callender, Mike Cave, Rhonda Whitman, Karen Jones, Traci Henze, Gracy Capelo, Greg Jung, Donna Janssen, Dan Davis, Chrissi McMullen, John Adams, Tyler Damron, and Ron Hill.

III.    Opening Ceremony:
•    The DSIS Tiger Choir led the pledge of allegiance to the American Flag and the Texas Flag.
•    Lenny Olson invited the audience to join him in a moment of silence.
•    Following the moment of silence the DSIS Tiger Choir performed a patriotic number: Proud to Be an American.
IV.    Public Forum: None at this time.
V.    Superintendent’s Report:
A.    There were no awards or recognitions at this time. Mary Ward reminder the Board about May board meeting recognitions for State qualifiers and winners.
B.    Dwane Shropshire, Assistant Superintendent of Business Operations reported on the following:
1.    Budget.
2.    District property values.
C.    Darlene Callender, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction reported on the following:
1.    Mrs. Callendar gave a power point presentation regarding the No Child Left Behind (NCLB):  Adequate Yearly Progress (AYP) report.
2.    CATE/OCR Performance Based Monitoring status.
3.    Donna Janssen reported 5th grade math testing scores that just arrived.
D.    Ron Hill, Director of Human Resources reported on the following:
1.    TRS new health care plans.
2.    Staffing
3.    UT Job Fair.
4.    Consumer Price Index: March 2005.
E.    Mary Ward, Superintendent reported on the following:
1.    New clock on wall for Board Meetings.
2.    Enrollment figures.
3.    Legi