SCCS Board Meeting Minutes
September 22, 2025
Education
The board discussed ongoing efforts to implement a multi-tier system of support for reading and math across elementary schools (K-8), adapting to recent legislative changes. Professional development sessions focusing on trauma-induced behaviors in children and the Classroom 180 academies were highlighted as upcoming initiatives to better understand and respond to student behavior beyond common interventions like fidgets and calming spaces .
Finance
Financial updates included a report on the Education Savings Account (ESA) funds received: $5.74 million to date, with $1.3 million still outstanding for the fall term. The board noted successful parent engagement in confirming tuition to qualify for ESA discounts, reducing unconfirmed students from over 300 to 10. The timing of ESA payments varies, occasionally resulting in irregular deposits. The audit for the year ending June 30 was underway, with fieldwork scheduled for October 20. The budget for 2025-26 is being revised to reflect enrollment increases and payroll changes, with a presentation planned for the October Finance Committee meeting. The August financials showed a net surplus of $57,776, with a noted reduction in parish subsidies impacting program revenue due to fewer school days in August. The purchase of the 216 W Hayes (Old Grant School) property was also included in property and equipment expenses. Additionally, the board discussed the use of Marketplace funds to pay for 8th-grade algebra fees, a new process that parallels ESA funding and requires tuition payment confirmation before parents can access these funds .
Human Resources
The HR update revealed ongoing recruitment efforts for support staff, maintenance, daycare employees, and an executive assistant position. A quarter-time music position at Saint Paul’s was successfully filled. The HR department has begun school rotations to be accessible to employees, receiving positive engagement. Disciplinary processes related to attendance and performance continue, and two workers’ compensation claims are active, with no new injuries reported. The board also reviewed the Teddy Bear Club, a daycare program facing management and financial challenges, with discussions about potentially integrating it into the school system for better oversight and compliance.
Daycare Funding and Legislative Challenges
A significant issue discussed was the funding allocation for daycare centers following district realignment. The board highlighted a dispute where $225,000 in state funds originally allocated to Bettendorf daycares is not being redirected to Pleasant Valley, where the children now attend. The Department of Education indicated that if Pleasant Valley lacks available funds, the community partner (SCCS) must seek alternative funding sources. Attempts to resolve this through legislative channels and direct appeals to the Bettendorf school board were considered. The board agreed on drafting a formal request to Bettendorf’s board to release the funds, emphasizing the need for transparency and proper allocation. The complexity arises from state rules regarding funding for “new” daycares and the lack of clear provisions for community partners moving between districts.
Communications and Marketing
The communications and marketing team is progressing with website updates in collaboration with Twin States, although the process has been slowed by staffing changes. The ribbon cutting at Saint Joe’s was successful, with a large turnout at the associated Mass. Future marketing efforts may include surveys to gauge community sentiment about the use of the Grant School building and to identify key concerns of parents when choosing educational options. The board discussed leveraging AI tools like Claude to generate marketing content focused on parent pain points and to assist in strategic messaging about the school system’s offerings .
Facilities and Infrastructure
Facilities updates included a plan to interview architectural firms (Bray, Studio 483, and Leggett) on October 15 for a project involving the Grant School building. The building requires critical upgrades such as storm shelter installation, elevator access, and bathroom renovations to meet city codes. Initial assessments suggest the building is in better shape than expected, with potential for phased improvements allowing partial use, such as for wrestling practice. Other facilities are generally stable, with minor repairs ongoing at All Saints and the parish offices relocated to the second floor of Lourdes school. Discussions about the eventual sale of Lourdes school are underway as part of parish strategic planning. The board also acknowledged significant contributions to technology funding through E-rate reimbursements, covering about 40% of technology expenses .
Grant School and Future Use
The board considered multiple future uses for the Grant School facility, including partnerships with trade or technical education centers, which could provide vocational training and workforce development opportunities. The phased renovation approach prioritizes compliance and safety upgrades first, followed by aesthetic and functional improvements. The potential to integrate gym facilities and workforce training programs was noted as a promising direction.
Community Feedback and School Operations
Positive feedback was shared regarding Principal Connors’ leadership at the block party and communications with parents, indicating effective and proactive management. Some concerns were raised about the launch of the SJA preschool, which experienced delays in opening and some family withdrawals, attributed partly to staffing challenges and program transitions. The board expressed a commitment to resolving these issues and moving forward with the program.