Newton Independent

Hamilton open to appointment to Newton School Board

Newton Independent

Darrin Hamilton, who was ousted last September following a two-year stint on the Newton School Board, said today he is open to being appointed to the board following last night's resignation of school board member Jeremy Heaberlin.

Hamilton posted on his Facebook page today that he was "interested in being appointed to the upcoming vacancy on the school board, should the board decide they will fill the vacancy by appointment."

Heaberlin, who ran unopposed to fill the remaining two years on the term of Melissa Hintz, announced his resignation at Monday's school board meeting due to his family's pending move from the district.

Hamilton and Joe Klingensmith were both voted off the school board in last fall's election. Hamilton was the fourth highest vote getter in the election that saw two newcomers, Nat Clark and Bill Perrenoud, and one incumbent, Donna Cook, win election to the three open four-year seats.

Reporter's Notebook: Emerson Hough redux?

By PETER HUSSMANN

Is a move afoot to get the Newton School Board to reopen Emerson Hough as a regular elementary school attendance center?

Maybe, according to posting made yesterday on the Help Save Emerson Hough Facebook page.

The community page posting written anonymously notes that information from a "well placed source on the school board" notes that the "opinion of the board" is that "general populace of Newton is happy with the current school structure," one that now features lower and upper elementary grades in the four remaining K-6 schools.

The writer obviously takes some exception to the board's apparent "opinion" and asks its 1,400-some followers if they "want to try to get Emerson Hough reopened."

"The board must be presented with a petition asking for that to happen," the writer states. "I can start one and link it on here and anyone with an email address can sign. Ground support in Newton would be good also."

Whether such an effort will be made is being left to the page followers, many of whom have already commented in support of such an effort.

"I will leave it up to all of you to decide," the posting concludes.

What's interesting now is that with the current make up of the school board, the community-dividing decision made nearly two years ago might just be able to be reversed.

It's no secret that school board newcomer Nat Clark was a backer of efforts to keep the school open. And Donna Cook, who won re-election last fall, voted in favor of keeping Emerson Hough open over Woodrow Wilson. Bill Perrenoud, or Mr. P., as his adopring Emerson Hough students called him for years, would also likely fall under the yes category.

But those three votes would be expected to be offset by the three remaining school board members who voted in support of keeping Woodrow Wilson open - Dennis Combs, Don Poynter and Andy Elbert.

Which leaves us with Jeremy Heaberlin, who abandoned his nearly certain re-election chances for his seat on the Newton City Council to fill an unexpired term on the school board.

Hmmm. I'll keep you updated.

Newton student numbers continue to fall

By PETER HUSSMANN

Newton's student enrollment figures continued their downward slide falling another 66 students this year and down 291 over the course of the last five years, the fourth greatest number in the state.

Newton's certified enrollment figures were released on Tuesday by the Iowa Department of Education and showed the district with 3,036 students in the current school year, down from 3,327 in the 2007-2008 school year. Last year, Newton had an enrollment of 3,102 which was down 100 students from the year before.

Only Cedar Rapids (-968), Fort Dodge (-327) and Keokuk (-322) saw greater student enrollment declines over the course of the past five years, the report stated.

Statewide, the number of students enrolled in Iowa's public schools declined by 280 students (0.06 percent) to 473,213, the 14th consecutive year of enrollment declines. Of the 351 school districts in the state, 218 (62 percent) showed declines with 129 (37 percent) reporting an increase in the current school year. Four districts reported no change.

The other four school districts in Jasper County also reported enrollment declines in the current school year.

Baxter was down 19 students to 385, Colfax-Mingo was down 20 to 772, Lynnville-Sully dropped 9 to 446 and PCM fell 19 to 1,017.

The certified enrollment is used in the formula that determines state funding for public school districts. It currently stands at approximately $5,800 per student.

Scarlet fever case confirmed at Newton elementary school

Newton Independent

Newton Community School District officials on Monday said they had confirmed a single case of scarlet fever with a student at Woodrow Wilson Elementary School.

School principal Nancy Van Wyk said the student was out of school with an illness when the scarlet fever diagnosis was confirmed. School officials notified parents with children attending the school on Monday.

Scarlet fever is caused by a bacteria. Symptoms include a sore throat, fever, swollen glands and a sunburn type rash.

More information on scarlet fever can be found here.

ISP educates NHS students on dangers of alcohol

 
The Iowa State Patrol/Safety Education Unit teamed with Newton High School on Friday to educate students on the dangers of alcohol in advance of the weekend Homecoming events. Sr. Trooper Doug Cutts spent the day speaking to students and had a display set up in the main hallway.

- Newton Independent

NCSD election results

Newton Independent

Following is a precinct-by-precinct accounting of the returns in Tuesday's Newton School Board election. A total of 770 ballots were cast resulting in a 5 percent voter turnout. The figures below include absentee ballot votes for the candidates.

Newton Ward 1, Precinct 1

• Nat Clark - 66
• Donna Cook - 63
• Darrin Hamilton - 41
• Joe Klingensmith - 24
• Bill Perrenoud - 81
• Jeremy Heaberlin - 80
• Total Ballots Cast - 102

Newton Ward 1, Precinct 2

• Clark - 52
• Cook - 55
• Hamilton - 46
• Klingensmith - 20
• Perrenoud - 55
• Heaberlin - 54
• Total Ballots Cast - 88

Newton Ward 2, Precinct 1

• Clark - 83
• Cook - 70
• Hamilton - 52
• Klingensmith - 21
• Perrenoud - 91
• Heaberlin - 82
• Total Ballots Cast - 117

Newton Ward 2, Precinct 2

• Clark - 63
• Cook - 66
• Hamilton - 58
• Klingensmith - 30
• Perrenoud - 77
• Heaberlin - 77
• Total Ballots Cast - 108

Newton Ward 3, Precinct 1

• Clark - 58
• Cook - 43
• Hamilton - 48
• Klingensmith - 35
• Perrenoud - 66
• Heaberlin - 66
• Total Ballots Cast - 90

Newton Ward 3, Precinct 2

• Clark - 31
• Cook - 24
• Hamilton - 16
• Klingensmith - 13
• Perrenoud - 38
• Heaberlin - 32
• Total Ballots Cast - 48

Newton Ward 4, Precinct 1

• Clark - 57
• Cook - 87
• Hamilton - 82
• Klingensmith - 58
• Perrenoud - 83
• Heaberlin - 93
• Total Ballots Cast - 136

Newton Ward 4, Precinct 2

• Clark - 34
• Cook - 38
• Hamilton - 23
• Klingensmith - 21
• Perrenoud - 41
• Heaberlin - 42
• Total Ballots Cast - 59

Kellogg

• Clark - 16
• Cook - 13
• Hamilton - 11
• Klingensmith - 5
• Perrenoud - 18
• Heaberlin - 18
• Total Ballots Cast - 22


Totals

1. Perrenoud - 550 - 26.38%
2. Clark - 460 - 22.06%
3. Cook - 459 - 22.01%
4. Hamilton - 377 - 18.08%
5. Klingensmith - 227 - 10.89%

          Heaberlin - 544 (running unopposed for two years remaining on open seat)

Newton School Board election winners ready to get to work

By PETER HUSSMANN

Winners in Tuesday's Newton School Board election thanked voters, praised the board service of the two incumbents voted out office and looked forward to getting to work to ensure that all children in the district are afforded a quality education.

First-time general election candidates Bill Perrenoud and Nat Clark were the top two vote getters with incumbent Donna Cook retaining the third four-year term seat open in Tuesday's election. Jeremy Heaberlin, who will wear two public office hats as he finishes out his at-large term on the Newton City Council, ran unopposed for the remaining two years on the seat currently held by board appointee Melissa Hintz.

Incumbents Darrin Hamilton and Joe Klingensmith were unable to retain their seats on the board.

Perrenoud said he was surprised by the results.

"I was very surprised by the results of the election tonight," he said. "I was hoping to finish in the top three, hoping for third, but to finish with the most votes was truly unexpected and humbling. I would like to thank everyone who voted for me. I never expected it to be like this."

Perrenoud thanked both Hamilton and Klingensmith for their service to the school district.

"They gave many, many hours working to prepare for meetings and giving up their family time to do so," he said. "I know they will continue to be involved in their own children's education and I hope they will be willing to help the school district by serving on committees the district has in place. I have nothing but respect for these two fine gentleman and wish them the best in their futures."

Perrenoud also touched on one of the hot-button issues of his campaign, the school board's decision to realign the elementary school structure into upper and lower grades.

"I feel the voters still are unhappy with the new alignment the district implemented last school year," he said. "I feel at some time this issue will need to be revisited to ensure we are doing what is best for all students and their families. I know I am only one vote, but I plan on making sure that vote is for the betterment of all families."

Perrenoud also said he is looking forward to getting started in his new post.

"I hope to meet with Mr. McDermott yet this week to gather background information on the programs and curriculum that have been implemented since my retirement from the classroom four years ago," he said. "I want to be knowledgeable on the topics so I can ask meaningful questions at board meetings."

"Mr. P." to legions of Newton school children, the school board member-elect said he will work for the betterment of the entire school district.

"I also hope that those who didn't vote for me will support the decisions I make for the betterment of our children," he said. "A strong school district is a plus for our community and will hopefully help bring interest from companies and interest in expanding to Newton. We have a strong district and I hope to make it stronger."

Clark, who previously sought appointment to the seat left vacant by Sheri Benson and to which Hintz was appointed, also thanked voters and expressed appreciation for Hamilton's and Klingensmith's service to the board.

"I would like to thank all of the people who voted today and extend my gratitude to Darrin and Joe for their service to the community," Clark said.

The school board member elect said that he is entering his term of service with no preconceived notions other than working for the betterment of education in Newton.

"I am entering in this with open eyes and no agenda," Clark said. "I look forward to this new experience and hope that I can help make education here in Newton better for our children. I hope to make wise decisions based on the facts and not politics."

Cook was also "grateful" to voters for returning her to her seat on the board and looks forward to work that lies ahead.

"I am grateful to the voters for their support in electing me to serve another term," she said. "I am confident that our board will continue to work together to do whatever it takes to make sure the children in our community learn to think, innovate and succeed. I look forward to working with our newly elected board members and welcome them each to the board."

Voter turnout in Newton was 5 percent with 770 ballots cast, including absentee.

Three new members elected to Newton School Board

Newton Independent

A long-time Newton school teacher and counselor was the top vote-getter in today's Newton School Board election that saw two incumbents swept out of office and three new-comers soon to be seated on the board.

Bill Perrenoud, "Mr. P." to decades of Newton students, received 532 votes in today's election in light voter turnout.

Perrenoud will be joined on the Newton School Board later this month by newcomer Nat Clark, a previous staunch opponent of the decision to close Emerson Hough Elementary school, who received the second highest vote total at 442, according to unofficial election results.

Long-time school board member Donna Cook retained her four-year seat on the board by garnering the third largest number of votes at 436.

Two incumbents seeking re-election, Darrin Hamilton and Joe Klingensmith, were voted out of office. Hamilton received 353 votes, according to unofficial results, with Klingensmith receiving 224.

Jeremy Heaberlin, who was running unopposed for the remaining two years on the seat left vacant by Sheri Benson more than a year ago and held by board appointee Melissa Hintz, who did not seek the seat, received 519 votes.

The Newton Independent will provide additional information on Wednesday.

Polls open from noon to 8 p.m. in Newton School Board election

Newton Independent

Polls in Newton will be open from noon to 8 p.m. for voting in the Newton School Board election.

Five candidates are seeking three open seats for four-year terms on the board. Incumbents Donna Cook, Darrin Hamilton and Joe Klingensmith are all seeking re-election. Newcomers Nat Clark and Bill Perrenoud are also seeking election to the four-year terms.

Jeremy Heaberlin is running unopposed for the two years remaining on the seat currently held by Melissa Hintz. Hintz was appointed to the school board last year after Sheri Benson submitted her resignation from the school board. Hintz is not seeking re-election due to her pending move from the community.

Perrenoud responds to readers' school board questions

Newton Independent

Editor's note: The Newton Independent asked readers to submit question to school board candidates running in Tuesday's election. Bill Perrenoud, a first-time candidate, was the next to reply.

Question: A year ago, two Newton elementaries were slated to go on the Schools in Need of Assistance list under No Child Left Behind rules. However, with the reorganization of th elementary structure, the clock was "reset," so to speak, for their inclusion on the list. What should be done to prevent this from occurring again?

Perrenoud: There is probably no way of knowing for sure if the reason for the change in the elementary structure was to "reset" to buy time for No Child Left Behind. I would hope that was not the case. From my perspective, I felt the reorganization of the elementary structure had more to do with declining enrollment. To better see if we are meeting the needs of the students may mean sorting the data back to where the students attended before the restructure. It is important for the school board to ask questions of the superintendent regarding how the data was collected and how it will be collected in the future to insure we are not leaving children behind.

Question: In October, Jason Glass, IDE Director, is going to come out with proposals to change the face of education in Iowa. What would you like to see on that list?

Perrenoud: It is hard to speculate on what the final proposals that would change education. Iowa and Newton have a good educational system, but it is important that we continue to do whatever it takes to reach each child's fullest potential. I feel it would be important for the state to provide the funding necessary to provide these changes. I am very cautious if teacher pay becomes tied into student performance that is often referred to as merit pay. We have some very good teachers in Newton and feel that merit pay can be detrimental for a variety of reasons. Technology is very important and we need to stay on top of the latest trends and provide our students the most current programs to stay competitive in a global society.

Question: During recent union negotiations, the district's negotiators came back with a level of salary increase that was above the level authorized by the board. The majority of the board, however, said the level was close enough and moved forward with the contract. Is that acceptable? If so, what percentage level above the authorized level would be acceptable in the future?

Perrenoud: Teachers' salaries in the state of Iowa have fallen in national ranking for over 15 years. I have personally seen years when I made less money that I did the year before because insurance costs were higher than the salary increase. I also understand the administrator who settled that contract is no longer working for the district so it may not be an issue in the future. Our teachers are preparing our children for our future. We need to do all we can to give the teachers a fair income for all they do. The money from the state and our enrollment figures it is difficult to put a percentage on it determines so much of this.

Question: Mr. Perrenoud did not respond to the question concerning foreign language instruction at the elementary level.

Question: Would you support the live video broadcasting of Newton Board of Education meetings?

Perrenoud: School board meetings are open to the public unless there is a need for a closed session which sometimes occurs. I would have no problem with them being televised so our residents can keep in touch with what is happening.

Question: What is one innovative idea you would bring to education in Newton if elected (or re-elected) to the school board?

Perrenoud: I feel I am an idea person and work to solve problems in the best interest of all children. I realize this is an ambitious idea, but I feel our community, families and, most importantly, our students would be better served in four K-5 buildings. Those buildings would be Aurora Heights, Emerson Hough, Thomas Jefferson and Woodrow Wilson. I would have the K-5 students from Berg be reassigned to Aurora Heights and Emerson Hough.

I would like to see Berg become a true three-year middle school and the home to the preschool. I feel putting grades 6-8 together would give middle school teachers more time to prepare students for high school. Placing the preschool in a portion of Berg would allow middle school students to act as mentors for some students who would benefit from the one-on-one contact. I have seen this done and it is a win-win situation for all involved. I have also worked in a middle school that is grades 6-8 and have seen tremendous growth and student confidence in themselves as a result.

As I said, this is an ambitious idea and would be explored and discussed measuring the pros and cons before a decision be made. In the interim, I feel the students in grades 4-6 at Woodrow Wilson be moved over to Emerson Hough, which I feel provides a better environment for the students. The AEA and preschool could be housed at Woodrow Wilson to keep that building utilized. Again, this would be something that would require input from many sources before any action would take place.

Thank you for taking the time to read what I have to say. Of course, I hope you will vote for me, but more importantly, it is important that you vote. I feel I have what is needed to be an excellent school board member and I would consider it an honor to work for the students and families of the Newton Community School District.

Cook responds to readers' school board questions

Newton Independent

Editor's note: The Newton Independent asked readers to submit questions for candidates running in Tuesday's school board elections. Donna Cook, an incumbent on the board seeking re-election, was the next to submit responses.

Question: A year ago, two Newton elementaries were slated to go on the Schools in Need of Assistance list under No Child Left Behind rules. However, with the reorganization of the elementary structure, the clock was "reset," so to speak, for their inclusion on the list. What should be done to prevent this from occurring again?

Cook: It is accurate that our elementary schools are exempt from being listed as SINA because of restructuring. However, every elementary school had scored well enough to avoid the SINA status regardless of restructuring.

Question: In October, Jason Glass, IDE Director, is going to come out with proposals to change the face of education in Iowa. What would you like to see on that list?

Cook: I am anxious to see what research based changes that are evidenced to improve learning for students Dr. Glass proposes. Adequate funding has always been a central barrier. Throwing money at a problem does not solve it; however, continuing to take money from education certainly increases challenges. It is concerning to me whenever money is diverted from public education. I am hopeful that adequate funding instruction and learning in an equitable way is one of Dr. Glass's proposals.

Question: During recent union negotiations, the district's negotiators came back with a level of salary increase that was above the level authorized by the board. The majority of the board, however, said the level was close enough and moved forward with the contract. Is that acceptable? If so, what percentage level above the authorized level would be acceptable in the future?

Cook: Negotiations are confidential between labor and union.

Question: Studies show that early childhood is when foreign languages are mot readily learned. Would you support the teaching of foreign languages at the elementary school level?

Cook: Foreign language instruction is important. Recently, Senator Black reiterated that our children should be learning at least one of three languages, including Chinese and Spanish. We are challenged with finding enough minutes in the day for the instruction we are mandated to provide. The addition of a foreign language at the elementary level may require the loss of something else and I just don't know what that would be. Integrating foreign language instruction with something else may be an option, but this would require careful study to maintain a balanced and equitable education.

Question: Would you support the live video broadcasting of Newton Board of Education meetings?

Cook: School board meetings are currently poorly attended by the public. If televising the meetings would increase interest and meaningful involvement in education of the community, I would support it. There are other avenues for the public to be informed including the school district web site and serving on one of the appointed committees. Applications to serve on a district committee are currently available on the district web site.

Question: What is one innovative idea you would bring to education in Newton if elected (or re-elected) to the school board?

Cook: If I am fortunate enough to be re-elected to serve on the board, the innovation that I would seek would be in the area of family and community involvement and support in education. Currently, we are working to improve the structure and work of our mandated committees and evaluating the need for others. We are also in conversations with PIRC (Parent Information Resource Center) to take out parent involvement to a new level which is exciting for student learning! Any ideas or changes proposed must be based on research based evidence and demonstrate a positive impact on student learning for consideration by the board. We have a responsibility to invest our taxpayer's dollars responsibly and so innovation cannot be undertaken without careful research and consideration. Change for change's sake is foolish. Change because it will make instruction and learning better is wise and should be considered.

Hamilton responds to readers' school board questions

Newton Independent

Editor's Note: The Newton Independent asked readers to submit questions for those seeking election to the Newton Community School District Board of Education to answer before Tuesday's school board election. Incumbent Darrin Hamilton is the second to answer. Polls are open in Newton from noon to 8 p.m. Tuesday.

Question: A year ago, two Newton elementaries were slated to go on the Schools in Need of Assistance list under No Child Left Behind rules. However, with the reorganization of th elementary structure, the clock was "reset," so to speak, for their inclusion on the list. What should be done to prevent this from occurring again?

Hamilton: First, the changes made that took effect last fall were not made to get off the Schools in Need of Assistance (SINA) list. The changes were made because of declining enrollment and loss of revenue. Neither Berg nor TJ could be closed or otherwise used as has been suggested as there would not have been enough classroom space for the students or unnecessarily spend money and have to cut programs. It was unanimous that five elementary buildings were no longer needed. The votes were split on realignment and which building. I was one of five who voted for the benefit of teacher collaboration which would benefit student learning which meant upper and lower elementary buildings. None of the current board members are proposing switching back, and we are monitoring to ensure promised results of the change happen. I was one of three that voted to keep Emerson Hough as an elementary. This was after the collection of much data and information, holding six meetings specifically on this issue where the public was invited to come and receive information and share with the board.

The district focuses on whether each child in our district is learning and showing continued growth over the course of a year. Given this focus, the issues involving No Child Left Behind should hopefully resolve over time. There are also efforts to change No Child Left Behind as it has unrealistic expectations and draconian results for not meeting requirements. The unrealistic expectation is everyone will be above average. The definition of average is adding things up and dividing by how many got added up. Half will be above average and half below average. By the very definition of average, there will be a below and an above average. The draconian choices are things like fire all the teachers at a building or fire all the administrators at a building. That does not achieve the NCLB's desired measurement which is higher test scores. Shouldn't the focus be on the student's knowing content and not teaching to the test? The State of Iowa is likely going to seek a waiver from the law for all Iowa school districts, as they recognize the flaws in No Child Left Behind.

Question: In October, Jason Glass, IDE Director, is going to come out with proposals to change the face of education in Iowa. What would you like to see on that list?

Hamilton: Given that Director Glass visited the Newton Community School District and commented on how we were doing a lot of great things here and doing things other districts should emulate, I'll tell you what I don't want to see on the list.

I don't want to see unfunded mandates, as that will place further financial hardships on our district. I don't want to see an increase of testing of students, merely for the sake of testing. What will any test measure? How will the measures the tests obtain be utilized? I don't want to see changes for the sake of change or change so a bunch of politicians can pound their collective chests and tell us they did something. There will likely be a great deal of changes forced upon us. The changes better advance our district and not hold us back or pull us back from our already high requirements and expectations that are in place. The changes better be based upon sound research with proven results directly related to the proposed change. Dr. Glass liked what he saw when he recently visited our district. Hopefully his proposed changes will help and not harm us.

Question: During recent union negotiations, the district's negotiators came back with a level of salary increase that was above the level authorized by the board. The majority of the board, however, said the level was close enough and moved forward with the contract. Is that acceptable? If so, what percentage level above the authorized level would be acceptable in the future?

Hamilton: The head district negotiator entered into a TA (tentative agreement) that exceeded the explicit authority granted by the school board. I believe it was a usurpation of the school board's power and that it was unacceptable. I was one of two who voted no on the contract (See Action #8669 at May 9, 2011 meeting). The public entrusts their tax dollars to the school board to be spent wisely.

If you tell the car salesperson how much you are willing to pay for a car at the start of negotiations, don't be surprised when you are paying at least that amount. Given how the district negotiations went, I was not surprised to know the board was being asked to settle slightly above our authorized limit. My issue was not that we were asked to settle slightly higher. It was that the agreement was already tentatively agreed to, knowing it exceeded the board's granted authority to do so. I would have rather seen our negotiator sent back to negotiate further and explain there was not the authority to reach the TA and see what could have been negotiated. While the amount over authorization was relatively small in the overall scope of things; a relatively small amount compounded over the course of several years' worth of agreements has a large cumulative impact to the district's budget.

The bus drivers, secretaries, lunchroom/kitchen staff and custodians do a great job. Our district is blessed with talented individuals. Our district would not be able to function without them. My vote was not a vote against the employees or against the union. My vote was for accountability in how the district negotiates its contracts.

Question: Studies show that early childhood is when foreign languages are mot readily learned. Would you support the teaching of foreign languages at the elementary school level?

Hamilton: In general terms, I would support foreign language at the elementary level. I would want to know specifics, such as what language is being proposed to be added and for what grades. Will everyone in the proposed grade or grades be required to take the language or will it be optional? Whether anything language is being reduced or eliminated elsewhere? If so, what language for what students and how will those students be impacted? Is there any transition time needed so there is not a group of students who do not have the opportunity to study a foreign language? If there is a need for transition, is there one being offered? Would there be a change in costs associated with the plan and if so, what are they? What impact would this have on staffing needs and change in staffing? Finally, with all the things that are being done at the elementary level, is there physical time available to do this or would something have to be reduced or eliminated and if so, what? This means gathering information and making the best decision based upon the information at hand.

Question: Would you support the live video broadcasting of Newton Board of Education meetings?

Hamilton: Yes, if the financial cost to the district was reasonable and it was done in a non-disruptive manner.

Question: What is one innovative idea you would bring to education in Newton if elected (or re-elected) to the school board?

Hamilton: I do not have an agenda nor am I making any promises regarding any specific issue. I offer my time and my experience. I will continue to do what I have done these past three years, which is to be accessible, gather information, be respectful in my listening to those who are sharing with me in a respectful manner, to ask questions and get answers, to take all this information and weigh and evaluate it and then and only then make informed decisions with one outcome in mind - what is best for our students while being fiscally responsible to the residents in the district. Feel free to contact me if you want to discuss an issue, share information or learn more. Call, e-mail or Facebook message me.

It has been a privilege to serve the district residents on the board. I hope that I have conducted myself in a manner that when you go to vote on Sept. 13 (sometime between noon and 8 p.m.) that you will cast one of your votes for me, Darrin Hamilton. Remember, go vote. It's your right in our democracy.

Newton school district on NCLB assistance list again

By PETER HUSSMANN

The Newton Community School District is one of 30 districts across the state that were identified as a district in need of assistance for the current school year under the federal No Child Left Behind guidelines.

On Thursday, the Iowa Department of Education released its 2011 State Report Card for No Child Left Behind. The results show that 30 of 359 (8.4 percent) public school districts were identified as in need of assistance.

In addition, the report shows a total of 415 public schools (29.6 percent) of the 1,401 public schools in Iowa were identified as schools in need of assistance, including Berg Middle School, Newton Senior High School and the district's alternative high school, Basics and Beyond.

Last year, 7.5 percent of Iowa school districts were on the assistance list and 24.9 percent of the state's schools.

The designation marks the third consecutive year that the Newton district has been identified as not meeting its annual state participation goals or measurable objectives.

The federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 requires public schools and districts to meet Adequate Yearly Progress targets for overall student population and for demographic subgroups in grades 3-8 and grade 11. These subgroups include socio-economic status, limited English proficiency, race/ethnicity and special education.

Schools must meet all targets in every student group to meet its progress requirement and must test 95 percent of students in each group. Average daily attendance and high school graduation rates are other academic factors considered.

The legislation also includes yearly target increases schools must meet in order to meet the long-range goal of having 100 percent of students meet grade-level standards in reading and mathematics by 2014. The targets for the past school year, which are the basis of this year's report, increased by about 6.5 percent.

Jason Glass, director of the Iowa Department of Education, said he is not surprised to see the increases in the number of school districts and schools being given the in need of assistance designation under federal law.

"Iowa educators and school leaders continue to work very hard to meet targets, but we'll continue to see schools move into these higher levels of accountability as the targets go up each year," he said.

He also questioned the federal law itself, saying he plans to seek a waiver from No Child Left Behind requirements if the Congress does not amend or repeal the law.

"If the goal is just to rank, blame and shame schools, we have that model down under No Child Left Behind," he said. "If our goal is we really want to find schools that are legitimately in need of improvement and help them get better, than we need to come up with a different system."

You can read the 2011 No Child Left Behind State Report Card below.

Download 2011 State Report Card FINAL

Klingensmith responds to readers' school board questions

Newton Independent

Editor's Note: The Newton Independent asked each of the candidates running for the Newton School Board in next Tuesday's election to respond to some questions provided by readers. Joe Klingensmith, an incumbent seeking a four-year seat on the board, is the first to respond.

Question: A year ago two Newton elementaries were slated to go on the Schools in Need of Assistance list under the No Child Left Behind rules. However, with the reorganization of the elementary structure, the clock was "reset," so to speak, for their inclusion on the list. What should be done to prevent this from occurring again?

Klingensmith: I don't know where some people get their stories, but I sure didn't hear anyone on the board plotting the closing of an elementary school as a way around any rules. As everyone should know, I was one of the two votes against going to the current K-3, 4-6 structure. Had I gotten my way and kept the neighborhood school system, I don't know what would have happened with any No Child Left Behind issues, but no matter what the statistics show, I believe Mr. Gilbert and his crew are doing whatever it takes to help the children of the Newton district learn at a high level. They are trying to get better every day. And even though I'm the only one running who voted against the K-3, 4-6 system, I would not currently vote to switch back until someone can show me the current system is hurting student learning.

Question: In October, Jason Glass, IDE Director, is going to come out with proposals to change the face of education in Iowa. What would like to see on that list?

Klingensmith: That's one for the politicians! But he seemed like a great guy when he came to visit us here in Newton. He seemed to really like what he saw. He visited kids in our engineering classes and they showed him the advanced things they can do. He had praise for the coaching work we do in this district and liked the fact that research is used by the teachers and administrators to make their decisions. He also took time to tour our Career Academy we do in partnership with DMACC. We had a lot of good stuff to show him.

Question: During recent union negotiations, the district's negotiators came back with a level of salary increase that was above the level authorized by the board. The majority of the board, however, said the level was close enough and moved forward with the contract. Is that acceptable? If so, what percentage level above the authorized level would be acceptable in the future?

Klingensmith: This question sure was written by somebody who wasn't at the meeting. I don't remember anyone thinking the screw up by the HR director was OK. We were all upset and not satisfied with how things were presented to us. Now I admit I didn't jump down his throat like one board member did, but that isn't me. If you come to meetings you know I don't yell a lot. But every one of us was upset at the HR director that night. But unlike the one NO vote, the rest of us didn't feel we should vote against the contract terms that union members had negotiated in good faith, union members who had done nothing wrong other than to believe that the Newton School District's HR Director was handling things correctly. This is a union contract we're talking about here. I was not going to vote no on somebody's paycheck when it was the district that was wrong, not our custodians and bus drivers. So, I guess you can say that I did vote to give the union members slightly more than I had told our HR director I would agree to. But I think we did the right thing. We want good relationships with our unions - we have no business using their paychecks to fix our administrative problems. We have eliminated the HR director position in the latest budget cuts. I strongly supported that move.

Question: Studies show that early childhood is when foreign languages are most readily learned. Would you support the teaching of foreign languages at the elementary school level?

Klingensmith: Yes, it is hard to learn a foreign language. If we can find a way to do it, that sounds good to me.

Question: Would you support the live video broadcasting of Newton Board of Education meetings?

Klingensmith: I sure don't like idea of seeing myself on TV, but I don't care much either way.

Question: What is one innovative idea you would bring to education in Newton if elected (or re-elected) to the school board?

Klingensmith: The Newton school district has several innovative ideas that are currently being put in place. I support these and I don't know that it is the time to have seven board members bring seven new "innovative" ideas to the board table. That sounds like a bad idea to me. But I think the entire community would be impressed if they had sat through our meetings and knew what was being put in place. As the vice president of the board, it's my job to help make sure Steve hears the concerns of the community and that he is doing a good job overseeing the teachers and other administrators. But the school board doesn't, and can't, run the school. We are just parents and volunteers who are about the kids. That's why I'm running for re-election. I hope you'll vote for me to give me a chance to continue giving back to my community.

Newton School Board candidate: Joe Klingensmith

Newton Independent

Editor's Note: The Newton Independent asked each of the candidates seeking election in the Sept. 13 Newton School Board election to introduce themselves to voters in the district and state why they are seeking election to public office. Joe Klingensmith is the final candidate to reply.

By JOE KLINGENSMITH

My name is Joe Klingensmith and I am a 37-plus year resident of Jasper County. I am a graduate of Monroe Community High School. I earned by AAS degree in criminal justice from Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa. I was a second-generation Maytag worker and made the choice to live in Newton. I have a wonderful wife, Bev, who is employed by Wells Fargo in West Des Moines. We have two terrific kids, Wade, who is in 4th grade, and Reed, who is in 2nd grade.

After Maytag's demise, I was a stay-at-home dad and embraced the opportunity to obtain a BS in business management and administration. I am currently working here in town for Keystone Labs. This family-owned business is a good place to work, allowing me the flexibility during the day to attend school functions and special school board meetings. I also enjoy volunteering for Cub Scouts, PTA and church. I have served on the Board of Education for Newton for the past three years, gaining valuable experience.

As a board, we have worked hard to ensure that the district has a clear mission and clear visions. NCSD will do whatever it takes to ensure that all students learn to think, innovate, and succeed. We teamed with the administrative council to create two aggressive, obtainable, and measurable goals: to have innovative, meaningful parent involvement; and every student will receive engaging, rigorous, and innovative instruction in every class.

I do not have a specific agenda to achieve, no political obligations or axes to grind. I am truly providing my resources in the best interest of all children in our district. My board decisions have always been made after listening to input from community members, doing research, and receiving advice and opinions from professionals in the field. Then, I make the best moral and ethical choice that I possibly can.

We have an excellent curriculum in place. We have several strategies, policies, and programs positively impacting students (KU strategy, EDM, PBIS, PERK, PD, Math Coaches, curriculum mapping, ...). I would like to see these through to fruition. I am proud to be part of the team that worked hard to start the preschool program and the Career Academy.

During our visit with Jason Glass, the director of education for the state of Iowa, he acknowledged that NCSD had a lot of good things going for us. He thought other districts in the state could learn from us. I have had the opportunity to meet with Representative Kelley and Senator Black to discuss several school issues and obstacles which we need to overcome. I look forward to being able to continue discussing our local school issues with our elected officials.

Professional development of our teachers is a high priority; they are the backbone of our kids' educational system. Involving and communicating to all parents remains another key to a child's level of learning. There is a direct correlation between student learning and leadership. I believe that we have second-to-none leadership in our district.

If elected, I will continue to work on my breadth of knowledge; I will continue to put safety of our children and top notch education at the top of my list. I know my role as a board member and can walk the fine line of micro-managing and holding the superintendent accountable. I feel the board's relationship with the administrators is good, allowing us to give suggestions and challenge decisions in a positive and productive way.

During tough economic conditions and our declining enrollment, we have kept the tax levy at a low rate compared to other districts. We are doing things well, although there is always room for improvement.

Newton School Board candidate: Donna Cook

Newton Independent

Editor's Note: The Newton Independent asked each of the candidates seeking election in the Sept. 13 school board election to introduce themselves to voters and state the reasons they are seeking public office. Donna Cook is the next candidate to reply.

By DONNA COOK

Greetings! I am Donna Cook and I am running for election to the Newton Community School Board. I am a Newton native and a NHS grad. My father, Russell Southern, is retired from Maytag and will soon celebrate his 86th birthday. My mother stayed at home when I was younger and then had a very successful career with Avon. She passed away in 1991. I have been blessed with having another mother in my adult life - JoAnn.

I went to college in Iowa and graduated with a diploma RN from the Missouri Methodist School of Nursing, where I met my husband. We returned to Iowa soon after graduation and have lived here since. I have been married for 28 years and together Ernie and I have three awesome children. They are all NHS grads and we are proud of each one. We enjoy three delightful grandchildren; twins age 4 and the youngest is 18 months old. We love spending time together as a family.

I have always highly valued education. I have served two terms on the NCSD Board of Education. It has been an honor to serve our community children in this way. Life-long learning is important to me and I recently completed a 30-year goal of completing my bachelor's of science in nursing from the University of Iowa. It is never too late!

I am committed to the time and work required to be an effective board member. I am proud to be a nurse. I am proud to work at the Newton Correctional Facility for the past 18 years providing health care to those that often need it most.

Being involved in my children's education was always a priority. My mother role modeled this through her involvement in PTA when I was very young. I started my involvement through Emerson Hough PTA. I have served in many committees and in leadership positions through PTA, including being elected to a term to serve as Iowa PTA President. I served on the National PTA Council of States for two terms. It was very rewarding, but I have learned the most important place to make a difference is at home in my community.

I love serving on the Newton Community School Board. I am highly committed to our community and even more to the children in our community. I want each to be successful and achieve their potential so they can one day be happy and contributing role models in their communities. I am passionate that a child's education not be be dependent on their zip code. It is essential that we all do whatever it takes to help our children succeed both at home and at school. There can be no excuses. All children can learn.

As a school board member, it is important to keep the focus on student learning. One way we support this as a board is by ensuring effective instruction. It is our responsibility to provide tools for our teachers and staff to continually improve instruction to meet the learning needs of our children.

Our decisions are data driven. While we are measured by test scores in the eyes of those outside the community, even more important is that our children are learning and have the tools to continue to learn as they grow.

We recently adopted a new mission that included this. We want our children not only learn but to learn to think. There is so much changing in our world and technology that we don't know, we cannot just provide facts and information. We must teach them the skills to think critically, to analyze information and to apply it in new ways.

Education is very exciting and very challenging to deliver effectively. We have invested wisely in instructional coaches. They show tremendous promise in the continual improvement of instruction with integrity. Our children are so fortunate to have such highly qualified teachers that strive to improve teaching to ensure learning.

I invite your questions. I invite you to cast your vote for me on Sept. 13 so we can continue this important work together!

Newton school district candidates meet in LWVJC forum

By PETER HUSSMANN

Candidates for the Newton School Board were in agreement that the district's declining enrollment and the financial impact that has on the ability to provide educational programming to Newton students is the most serious issue currently facing the district.

The issue of declining enrollment was the first issue touched in the League of Women Voters of Jasper County's school board candidate forum held Tuesday evening at Newton City Hall.

Five candidates are seeking three open seats for four-year terms on the school board, including three incumbents - Donna Cook, Darrin Hamilton and Joe Klingensmith. Two people, Nat Clark and Bill Perrenoud, are seeking election to public office for the first time, though Clark did seek school board appointment to the seat left vacant by Sheri Benson in March 2010. Jeremy Heaberlin is running unopposed for the two years left on that seat after the school board's appointee, Melissa Hintz, did not seek re-election due to her pending move from the community.

Following opening statements, the candidates addressed a number of questions posed by League members and those attending the candidate forum Tuesday. The declining enrollment numbers were at the top of the list.

Hamilton said that it is not only the declining student numbers that concern him, but also the 0 percent allowable growth handed to school districts across the state by state lawmakers this year that has him worried. Couple that with the recent Supreme Court decision in a case out of Newton involving the classification of properties for taxation purposes and the district could find it even more difficult to fund education, he said.

The Newton School District has had declining student numbers for years, so much so that it dropped its affiliation with big-school class 4A districts in central Iowa to a smaller 3A classification. In addition, the declining numbers forced the district to close Emerson Hough Elementary and forgo such program offerings as orchestra.

Numbers from the Iowa Department of Education show Newton had 3,404 students in the 2001-2002 school year, the earliest year for enrollment data on its web site. Last school year Newton had a certified enrollment of 3,102 for a decline of 302 students over that period. The declines have increased more rapidly in recent years with the enrollment down 224 students since the 2007-2008 school year. Last year's loss of 100 students was the sharpest decline Newton has seen in four years. And on Monday, Newton Superintendent Steve McDermott told board members that preliminary student number appear to be down again this school year.

The loss of students led Heaberlin to say that Newton needs to take another tack.

"Whether we like it or not, Newton has been reduced to a commuter town," he said.

Heaberlin said the district needs to work on providing as high a quality education program as possible within its means. By promoting a quality school system, new residents will be attracted to move to Newton and enroll their children in the district.

The recent decision to realign the elementary grades into upper and lower levels brought some disagreement among the candidates seeking office, though all of them realized that undoing it at this time would not likely be prudent.

Klingensmith said he was not in support of the change to the K-3, 4-6 building alignment when he voted on the issue a year ago. However, since that time he said he has seen the benefits the alignment has had on teachers' ability to collaborate with others on the educational programming of individual children. He said he would like to see more detailed information on the alignment's outcome before deciding the future of the arrangement.

Perrenoud agreed that the alignment allows for more teacher collaboration, but said it also is "hassle" for families who have to take elementary students to two different buildings. The former teacher and school counselor said he would like to see an alignment where students in grades kindergarten to fifth grade attend classes together with the sixth graders going to the middle school.

Clark, who has been impacted by the change by having elementary children attending different schools, said the arrangement "makes it difficult to arrange time" with his children at both schools. He also questioned the benefit.

"The decision was made in a rush under the guise we were doing what was best for our children," he said. "I don't think it's any better than before."

Cook, who supported the change and favors continuing the new arrangement, said the realignment was a "well planned decision" that "provides the best instruction with the resources we have."

The candidates were also asked what one improvement they would like to see be made in the district, a question that elicited a response from Clark of better communication from the school district to both the parents of students and the community at large.

Klingensmith said the district is currently "on the right track" and that "a lot of good strategies and policies are in place," like the Career Academy, but that parents need to take more ownership of their child's education and not "pawn off the excuse" that the district is not providing enough information.

Hamilton, noting recent data on school bullying that the Iowa Department of Education Director Jason Glass has term "unbelievably low," said the district needs to ensure a safe learning environment. In addition, he said the district needs to take full advantage of the fact that the district has such a high percentage of educators with advanced education degrees.

The candidates were also asked what students need to learn while in school, to which most replied the ability to critically analyze information and know where to find reliable data as the information age expands.

Heaberlin and Klingensmith, however, injected morals and values into the equation to which Perrenoud responded that public school districts really can't go there but can emphasize student character.

Finally, the candidates were asked to identify a current strength of the Newton School District.

"Teachers and staff," Perrenoud said. "That's what makes it click."

Cook noted the "strong leadership" and "great teachers" within the district as one of its strengths.

Clark said that when he and his wife were looking for a place to locate after he took a job in Grinnell, they toured the Newton schools where teachers and staff welcomed them with open arms.

"Newton as a whole has been that; the town reflects that to the Nth degree," Clark said. "It's been a long time since I've lived any place I can call home."

Hamilton noted the district's ability to "get things done."

"As we've faced challenges, whatever we have faced, we have been able to overcome them and move forward," he said.

The school election is set for Tuesday, Sept. 13. Absentee balloting is open.

Newton School Board candidate: Darrin Hamilton

Newton Independent

Editor's Note: The Newton Independent invited all those seeking election in the Sept. 13 school board election to introduce themselves to readers and provide some information on why they are seeking public office. Darrin Hamilton, an incumbent seeking re-election to a four-year terms on the board, is the next to reply.

By DARRIN HAMILTON

My name is Darrin T. Hamilton. I grew up and went to school in Ankeny. My dad worked 35 years at the John Deere plant, first as a welder, and retiring as a machinist (cotton picker spindle grinder). My mom stayed at home while we were younger, volunteering at our school and when we were older she worked at Iowa Lutheran Hospital as a lab technician.

I went to the University of Iowa, receiving a degree in political science with a minor in economics, and then law school at Drake University in Des Moines. I have been practicing municipal corporate law for 21 years; eight years for the City of Council Bluffs. This October will be 13 years in Newton as city attorney.

Mary and I have been married for 17 years. Unfortunately, we were not blessed with children. We are proud aunt and uncle to 20 nieces and nephews.

As a volunteer reader at Berg Elementary through Everybody Wins! Iowa, I have the opportunity to be at an elementary school once a week. I'm in my sixth and final year of serving as a commissioner on the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service. In Rotary, I served on the board and am involved in the student exchange program.

I have served on over a dozen boards in the public and private sector, and boards for profit, non-profit and tax exempt organizations. Years served add up to exceed 50.

Three years ago when there were two spots on the school board open, only two people ran. I ran because I think it is important for people to serve and give back to their community. I had no perceived wrong I was running to try and correct. When the Newton Daily News asked what I wanted to focus on, I replied better graduation rates and better community. The district's graduation rates have seen some improvement. With some new ideas likely to be implemented this year, I expect to see even more improvement. I have a Facebook page (Facebook.com/HamiltonNewtonSchoolBoard) dedicated to promoting better communication between residents of the school district and me. More can be done to improve communications.

I am running for re-election and asking you to cast one of your votes for me. I offer my experience, knowledge and background that I would bring to the table. I think through and analyze issues, seeking out information to help make sound decisions. I'm not afraid to ask tough questions that need to be asked - all while using common sense for what is best for our district's children. I'll continue to be responsive to those who communicate with me. I have no axe to grind, no hidden agenda, not even a rubber stamp to use. By saying this, I'm not suggesting someone else does.

I would like the opportunity and privilege to continue to serve the citizens of the Newton Community School District as a board member, working on your behalf to see to it that our children are being offered the best education we possibly can. In order for me to do so, please cast one of your votes for Darrin Hamilton.

State Patrol teaches bus safety

 
A kindergarten student at Berg Elementary School in Newton is assisted out the emergency exit by an Iowa State Patrol Trooper and a school district worker during the state patrol's yearly bus safety training session with Newton students. Sr. Trooper Doug Cutts, the safety training officer for the area patrol district, said that ISP and Newton School District team up each yer to provide bus safety training to new students. Kindergartners are taught the rules of riding a school bus, how to get on and off the bus safely and in the event of an emergency how to use the emergency exits.

- Newton Independent  

Newton School Board candidate: Bill Perrenoud

Newton Independent

Editor's Note: The Newton Independent has invited each of the candidates running in the Sept. 13 school election the opportunity to introduce themselves and give readers an idea on why they are seeking public office. Bill Perrenoud, who is seeking election to one of the three open four-year terms on the school board, is the next to reply. The Newton Independent is waiting for responses from each of the incumbents seeking re-election.

By BILL PERRENOUD

Serving on a school board is a difficult position to hold. People with different viewpoints all want to see their cause to become the way it goes. It takes a special person to be able to look at issues from all angles and be sure the best possible solution can be reached. As a 33-year veteranteacher and counselor (13 years as a teacher at Thomas Jefferson and 20 years as elementary counselor between Emerson Hough and Woodrow Wilson) I have seen a wide variety of needs presented and solutions established.

Another advantage of my years of experience with the district is that I have been around for the closing of Central Junior High and Washington, Kellogg and Lincoln elementary schools. In each case the district and the school board did a fantastic job of getting all the questions answered and when the inevitable happened the public was accepting. I don't feel this was the case with the closing of Emerson Hough. In my fact finding and talking with people before, during and after this decision was made, there were several decisions thrown out as unnecessary and the board ended up voting to close the wrong school. This has created a backlash in the community that is still harboring bad feelings in our community.

The way the elementary buildings have been realigned has created many families to have children placed in different buildings that have caused additional hardship to those families. The school board and the administration all say they want to have families involved in their children's education, as it should be, but have made it more difficult to have that happen. Why should a parent have to join two PTAs just because they have a child in a primary building and another child in an upper grade building? I feel the neighborhood school concept better serves FAMILIES. If the board took the proper action, families could reunite, which could increase parents' involvement and increase the morale of students and staff. As a board member, I would work to make sure my votes go to help strengthen families, as well as provide the best possible educational program for its students.

A strong curriculum is very important to prepare the students for the next level of education, whether between preschool, elementary, middle school, and high school. I know from experience that our district works hard to make the curriculum up to date and what is best for the students. I say that, yet I have had several parents and graduates tell me in our conversations that they really didn't feel the high school curriculum prepared them for post high school education. This concerns me. This tells me somewhere we have students who are allowed to take a path that isn't preparing them for continued education after high school. This is where the students, parents and the schools need to be sure they are challenged and are prepared for the next level. This is a concern I feel needs to be addressed.

I have visited with former board members who have indicated that they felt the school board was becoming more of a "rubber stamp" for what administration asks. I don't feel I would be a "rubber stamp." The board needs to do its own research and ask questions to be sure we know what is going on in the district that will benefit our children the most.