Business Affairs Advisory Committee

After having discussions with Steven, we felt we were not getting our monies worth from Five-Star during the past year.  It was not anything negative that Five-Star was doing - it was just that we did not need the help with Managed Services.  Rosanna has coming in once a week and working and training with staff.  That has been well received at the elementary, and moderately received at the middle and high schools.  Jenna has been our assigned consultant and she has done everything that we asked.   Five-Star submitted a modified proposal (see attached and summarized below) that included:

• Summary: We are saving you $51,000 per year and giving you the same services.
• Leadership (Jenna): Price reduced to $15,000 per year.
• Innovative Learning Specialist (Rosanna): $30,000 per year.
• Engineering Support: Offered at $0.00 if you keep Jenna and Rosanna. This is not unlimited, but capped at 100 hours per year for no-charge.

After talking with Steven and the principals, it was felt that the cost was not worth the services.  Steven has other sources, such as Roeing, for support when needed.  While we have learned a great deal from Rosanna, it would be better to invest the money saved for a Technology Coach that could be used everyday throughout the corporation.  This position could also replace the 7 (Technology Integration Specialists) that we currently fund through the ECA Schedule at $1000 each, or $7000.  However, I am not prepared to make that recommendation (adding staff) at this time.  As explained to Five-Star, our revenue is down and we need to cut cost.  This will help.

It is proposed that the board establish class size guidelines - both maximum and minimums - to have when it comes to possible reductions and staff planning.  Historically, there has been considerable focus on elementary class size.  While smaller class size may be a good marketing point, research is inconclusive as to whether smaller class size has an impact in achievement.  Having effective teachers does have a tremendous impact.

Attached is a DRAFT of guidelines establishing maximums and minimums for our discussion.  I have also attached a spreadsheet showing the current class sizes.  The elementary numbers were taken on January 20.  The middle and high schools' class sizes are from classes during the first semester of 2019-2020.

• Outside Gates.  Scott has received a quote (attached) to install three gates with electronic access.  The quote was for $42,860.  This does not include the electrical work that would be required.  While it would be nice to have, I don't see this as a high priority at this time.
• SRO. I have attached the latest copy of the invoice that we received from the City of Tipton for the SRO.  This includes all expenses charged during the 2019 calendar year.  
• Training.  Melissa and Caylie will complete their initial School Safety Specialist Training in February.  Lori, Shayne, Craig, and Brett completed their required two-day advanced training in September for their certification renewal. Rik, Scott, and myself will receive training this spring.

The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 20, 2020, 5:30PM.