Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Regular Board Meeting

July 21, 2025

The board tour of the Early Childhood addition project at 4:30 p.m.

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Monday, July 21, 2025.  The meeting was held in the Boardroom at 801 N. Elm, as well as virtually, starting at 5:30 p.m. Galen Zumbach, Board Vice President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Don Gee arrived at 6:00 p.m. Administrators present: Deron Stender and Taylor Royster.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser and KSIB was present.

The vice president asked the members and audience to face the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mohr moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 4-0.

Public Hearing on the sale of real property commenced at 5:32 p.m. with an open invitation to the community. During the hearing, no oral or written objections were received regarding the proposed budget. Hearing closed at 5:33 p.m.

Public Hearing on the High School Auditorium Lighting Project commenced at 5:34 p.m. with an open invitation to the community. During the hearing, no oral or written objections were received regarding the proposed budget. Hearing closed at 5:34 p.m.

Public Hearing on 2025-2026 District Developed Special Education Services Delivery System.  No written or oral objections were received, opened at 5:34 p.m., and closed at 5:35 p.m.

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve consent agenda items: Motion carried 4-0.

• Minutes of June 19, 2025
• Financial Reports
• Bills
• Contracts, Resignations, Agreements
  • Resignations
    • Alisa Phillips- Elementary Art Teacher
    • Drew Dornack- Assistant Tennis Coach
    • Taylor Royster- Central Generalist II                                                               
    • Jacob Baudler- Elementary Para
  • Contracts
    • Sara King- Elementary & Middle School Art Teacher
    • Jason Hansen- Custodian
  • Voluntary Transfer
    • Taylor Royster- School Business Official (start of 2026-27 school year)
  • Retirements
    • Billie Jo Greene- School Business Official (end of 2025-26 school year)
  • Residential Placement Agreement
  • Music Theatre International
  • Wellmark Behavioral and Mental Health Grant
  • Green Hills AEA Revised MOU
• Annual board policy review as presented
• Volunteers:  Lisa Riley-activities and classroom; Richard Homewood and Linda Huffman READS; Amanda Hansen and Karen Ryals activities.
• Donations:  First United Methodist Church to Food Service $2,261.39 for unpaid lunch balances; YACC to Karlie Hyde (ECC- Kindergarten) $300.00 for Social Emotional Learning Books:  Iowa States Savings Bank to All PreK 4th Grade Students $1,200.00 for each student a book to read over the summer; Greater Regional Hospital - Dustie Evan to Elementary Library $0.00 provided 2 children's books on the topic of strokes; Greater Regional Hospital - Dustie Evans to Creston Elementary library $50.00 for children's books that focus on recognizing symptoms of a stroke and living with loved ones who have endured a stroke;  Elmer Moats Trust to Creston Elementary $5,000.00 for the benefit of disabled children residing in Union Count; POET to HS Robotics Club $1,500.00 for Nationals for TSA/Robotics.

Communication and reports

• Business Manager Greene’s Report - The monthly financial reports
• Superintendent Stender’s Report -  The superintendent, along with Gary Briley and Callie Anderson, continues to meet monthly with DLR and DDVI project managers to review the progress on the new Early Childhood Center. So far, $184,655.77 in change orders have been processed, leaving a contingency fund balance of $553,644.23. The superintendent of Orient-Macksburg has requested transportation support, and their board has authorized our district to send a bus to a designated location in Orient for student pick-up and drop-off. A formal agreement will follow their July 21 board meeting and will be included on the August agenda. Custodial staff are busy preparing facilities amid various transitions across the district. A welcome letter was recently sent to staff, outlining professional development schedules, training protocols, district goals, and a list of new staff members. The district is currently fully staffed, with seven new teachers on board.
• Early Childhood Facility Planning - Tentative Timeline, budget, and project spending.

Don Gee arrived at 6:00 p.m.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to approve the resolution for the sale of real property. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve the High School Auditorium Lighting Project for Van Mannen for $1,033,728.  Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve the contract amendment with DLR Group for the High School Auditorium Lighting improvement project and change order of the EMS LED lighting of $99,258.00.   Motion carried 5-0.

James moved, and Zumbach seconded, to approve the purchase and payment for a 12-passenger van from TNT Ford for $54,183.    Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve the 2025-2026 district handbooks.   Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve the 2025-2026 District Goals.  Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve the 2025-2026 District Legislative Priorities.    Motion carried 5-0.

Snodgrass moved, and Zumbach seconded, to approve the 2025-2026 District Developed Special Education Services Delivery Plan.   Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, and Zumbach seconded, to approve the operational sharing agreement with Lenox CSD for the human resource officer and special education director.   Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve the Dual Sports Participation.   Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, and James seconded to approve the first reading of Policy Primer 33.4. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded to approve 257 Swan Street, Creston, IA, as the place where school board meetings will be held.   Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded to approve the authority to the Superintendent to sell and dispose of public property as necessary and in accordance with Iowa Code.   Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 6:25 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Monday, August 18, 2025, 5:30 p.m. Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, September 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, October 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting

 

 

 

 

 

 

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Regular Board Meeting

August 18, 2025

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Monday, August 18, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, as well as virtually, starting at 5:30 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James virtually, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Callie Anderson, and Billie Jo Greene.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser and KSIB was present.

The vice president asked the members and audience to face the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve consent agenda items: Motion carried 5-0.

• Minutes of July 21, 2025
• Financial Reports
• Bills
• Contracts, Resignations, Agreements
  • Resignations
    • Cole Crawford- 7th Grade Assistant Football Coach & 8th Grade Girls Basketball Coach
    • Lindsay Adamson- Paraprofessional
    • Russell Orr- Bus Driver
    • Sara Keeler- HS Assistant Girls Wrestling Coach
    • Addison Shay- Accounts Payable- Pending Board Approval of Voluntary Transfer
    • Teri Keeler- IT- Pending Board Approval of Voluntary Transfer
    • Sara Lane- Middle School Student Council Sponsor
    • William Ralston- Assistant Girls Soccer Coach
    • Edward Jones- Custodian
  • Contracts
    • Caleb Maxwell- Elementary/Middle School Paraprofessional
    • Stephanie Baucom- Middle School Paraprofessional
    • Arianna Gomez- Assistant Girls Soccer Coach
    • Sarah Guthrie- Assistant Girls Tennis Coach
    • Preston Fleharty- 7th Grade Assistant Football Coach
    • Hallie Powers- Jr. Class Sponsor
    • Deren Fry- Bus Driver
    • Pamela Shady- Bus Paraprofessional
  • Voluntary Transfer
    • Addison Shay- Human Resources (July 1, 2026)
    • Teri Keeler- Accounts Payable (July 1, 2026)
  • 2025-2026 complementary activity passes
  • 2025-2026 Out-of-State Trip
  • Transportation Agreement with Orient Macksburg Community School District
• Superintendent Stenders' request to attend the Superintendent Symposium
• Waiver for Eligibility for Activities
• Amend the Student and Parent Handbook
• Fundraisers as presented
• Donations:  Panther Pride Program:  BUNN, Community 1st Credit Union, Creston Veterinary Clinic, Greater Regional Health, Hartsock Insurance, Heartland Tire & Auto Center, Iowa State Savings Bank, Lions Club, Mark & Mary O’Riley, Napa, Northwest Bank, Project C Dance Company, Southwestern Community College, Subway.  Panther Pride Staff and Promotional T-Shirts:  Iowa State Savings Bank.  New Staff Luncheon:  Northwest Bank.  District Staff & Student Promotions:  Hartsock Insurance.

Communication and reports

• Student recognition was given for the Hawkeye 10 All-Conference Teams, with several athletes honored. In softball, Ava Adamson was named Unanimous 1st Team, Taryn Fredrickson and Avery Staver earned 1st Team, Jersey Foote and Evy Marlin were 2nd Team, and Jaycee Hanson received Honorable Mention. The softball team also captured the Hawkeye 10 Championship with a perfect 20-0 record. Additional honors included Taryn Fredrickson being named to the All-KMAland Softball Team; Ava Adamson (2nd Team) and Taryn Fredrickson (3rd Team) receiving Iowa Girls Coaches Association All-State 4A recognition; and Ava Adamson being selected to the All-District Team 4A Southwest. In baseball, Parker Varner and Tom Mikkelsen earned 1st Team, with Tanner Ray named Honorable Mention. Varner was also selected 1st Team Class 3A Southwest Iowa All-District, Mikkelsen 2nd Team, and Varner was named to the IA Baseball All-State 3rd Team. Additionally, Madison (Frain) Peterson, Class of 2012, was inducted into the Iowa Girls' High School Athletic Union Hall of Fame.
• Business Manager Greene’s Report - The monthly financial reports. The End of Fiscal Year process was reviewed, with CAR, Special Education, and Transportation reports due by September 15. A reminder that the School Board Election will take place in FY26, with candidate packets available. The IASB Convention is scheduled for November 19–21 in Des Moines.
• Superintendent Stender’s Report -  Preparations for the new school year are underway with preschool and kindergarten beginning in temporary classrooms at the elementary school. Kindergarten will start August 25 with a two-week “Soft Start to School” focused on routines, community building, and hands-on exploration, followed by a transition week, September 8–12, to move into new classrooms. A Kindergarten Open House is planned for September 11, with classes resuming September 15, while preschool will also begin September 15, following construction delays, with a Preschool Open House scheduled the same evening. Updates include $184,655.77 in processed change orders with a contingency balance of $553,644.23, the completion of central office hiring, and active work on the RSAI legislative platform. The district is fully staffed, with new teacher orientation completed, and will launch back-to-school workshops on August 18. Panther Pride Sponsors were recognized for their contributions, and the superintendent shared that they have been invited to participate in the national Superintendent Symposium in October, with expenses covered by AASA, pending board approval.
• Early Childhood Facility Planning - Tentative Timeline, budget, and project spending.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to approve the resolution for the FY26 distribution of state funds designated as salary supplements for education support personnel. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve the purchase of AEDs from LifeGuard MD for $53,300.00.  Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, and Zumbach seconded, to approve the authorization of the superintendent to approve or deny open enrollment requests.   Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded to approve the 2nd reading of Policy Primer 33.4. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 6:14 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Monday, September 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, October 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting

 

 

 

 

 

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Regular Board Meeting

September 15, 2025

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Monday, September 15, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, as well as virtually, starting at 5:30 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Bill Messerole, Lesa Downing, Callie Anderson, and Billie Jo Greene.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser was present.

The vice president asked the members and audience to face the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve consent agenda items: Motion carried 5-0.

• Minutes of August 18, 2025
• Financial Reports
• Bills
• Contracts, Resignations, Agreements
  • Resignations
    • Jessica Wilker- Food Service
    • Deren Fry- Bus Driver
    • Janet Hudson- Custodian
  • Contracts
    • Rebecca Morrison- Paraprofessional
    • Karla Larson- Paraprofessional
    • Connie Swanson- Paraprofessional
    • Angie Ray- Paraprofessional
  • Termination
    • Pam Sobotka- Food Service
  • Top Notch Fireworks Agreement
  • Viking Fire Protection
• Volunteers:  Ruth Avazian, Jesse White, Valerie White, Agnes Hoepker, and Katey Capra for Activities; Steven Marean for READs

Communication and reports

• Middle School Principal Downing - Curriculum work continues across departments: Science introduced Science Your Way for intervention/extension and is implementing Amplify for Tier 1 support; ELA is focusing on interventions, LETRS strategies, and strengthening writing in collaboration with Social Studies; Math has set iReady for 5th/6th and continues the current program in 7th/8th while refining the Guaranteed & Viable Curriculum; Social Studies is raising rigor, using rubrics with ELA, and adding inquiry-based learning, including hosting a Pentagon 9/11 guest speaker; and Special Education is aligning schedules with SDI minutes and para support while holding monthly team meetings. Assessments are underway with FAST, MTSS, and ISASP data guiding next steps. Instructional responses include shifting Tier 3 and SDI time out of Pride Time, planning targeted Tier 2 supports, and strengthening MTSS after the cancellation of the Math pilot. Culture efforts highlight SEL through Second Step, the new 8th Grade Student Support Squad, MS/Elementary partnerships, and community celebrations on the CCMS Facebook page. Food Bank usage was shared.
• High School Principal Messerole - Creston Community High School continues to monitor the number of credit-deficient students each year, with counselors, Success staff, and administrators working closely with students and families to support on-time graduation. Updates were shared on the Hawkeye 10 Conference, noting Lewis Central’s move to the Missouri Rivers Activity Conference and Red Oak and Shenandoah’s move to the Western Iowa Conference, while Treynor declined an invitation to H10 and Carroll is still considering options. Maintaining a viable H10 conference remains important for Creston due to size and location, with confidence in moving forward as an eight or nine-team league. Additionally, CCHS math instructor Ellie Soosloff participated in a summer research project at Iowa State University and looks forward to incorporating her learning into the classroom this year.
• Business Manager Greene’s Report - The monthly financial reports. The End of Fiscal Year process was reviewed, with CAR, Special Education, and Transportation reports due by September 15. A reminder that the School Board Election will take place in FY26. To date, we have received three candidates. The deadline is September 18, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.. The IASB Convention is scheduled for November 19–21 in Des Moines. Special Education financial comparative. 
• Superintendent Stender’s Report -  The district has experienced a strong start to the school year, with students, families, and staff demonstrating resilience and patience amid significant transitions, including the move into the new Elementary/Middle School office and the “Ready, Set, Move!” initiative for kindergarten and preschool classrooms. While construction delays create some uncertainty, the project remains on track for completion before winter break, with a contingency balance of $553,644.23. Enrollment projections suggest a decline, though the RISE online program has successfully reduced open enrollment outflow and contributed positively to numbers. ESA funding has grown significantly, and district leadership is advocating for legislation to designate this revenue directly to the general fund for greater local control. Additional highlights include the expansion of mental and behavioral health services through Green Hills AEA, the upcoming rollout of Simbli board management software to increase efficiency and transparency, and continued efforts to market and sell the 801 N Elm Street property by January to avoid demolition.
• Early Childhood Facility Planning - Tentative Timeline, budget, and project spending.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve the contract amendment with DLR Group for the additional administrative service for the Early Childhood Center Project. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve the resolution, directing and authorizing the Board Secretary to give notice of a public hearing on participation in the ISL to be held in the AEA Boardroom, 257 Swan Street, Creston, Iowa, on October 20, 2025, at 5:30 P.M.   Motion carried 5-0.

James moved, and Zumbach seconded, to approve the request for Modified Allowable Growth and Supplemental Aid for the FY25 special education deficit of $805,956.68.   Motion carried 5-0.

No action was taken on the proposed sharing agreement. 

James moved, and Zumbach seconded to approve rescheduling the Monday, November 17 board meeting to Thursday, November 20 at 5:30. Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 6:10 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Monday, October 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, November 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, December 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Special Board Meeting #1

September 29, 2025

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Monday, September 29, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, starting at 5:30 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Bill Messerole, Scott Driskell, Maigen Carrall, Carmen Ponce, Taylor Royster, and Billie Jo Greene.

The president asked the members and audience to face the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Mohr moved, and Zumbach seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, James seconded, and the Board held a closed session to recommend the expulsion of a student as provided by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(e) and to review or discuss records that are required by law to be kept confidential as provided by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a).  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.   Went into closed session at 5:31 p.m. 

James moved, Snodgrass seconded, and the Board held an executive session to review or discuss records that are required by law to be kept confidential as provided by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a).  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.   Went into a closed session at 6:15 p.m.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded to come out of the closed session at 6:50 p.m.  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.

James moved, and Zumbach seconded, that the Board approved the Superintendent’s recommendation that the student who was the subject of the disciplinary hearing be expelled from the Creston Community School District through December 19, 2025 and 2nd semester on-line of 2025-2026, and that written findings and conclusions consistent with the Board’s deliberation be prepared, signed by the Board president, and mailed by the Board Secretary to the student and family.  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.

James moved, and Zumbach seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 6:54 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Special Board Meeting
• Monday, October 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, November 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, December 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Special Board Meeting #2

September 29, 2025

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Monday, September 29, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, starting at 7:02 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Bill Messerole, Scott Driskell, Maigen Carrall, Taylor Royster, and Billie Jo Greene.

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, Zumbach seconded, and the Board held a closed session to recommend the expulsion of a student as provided by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(e) and to review or discuss records that are required by law to be kept confidential as provided by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a).  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.   Went into closed session at 7:03 p.m. Caydence Wiese and parents, Sharia Wiese, Jacob Best, and Emylia Gourley requested open session at 7:07 p.m.

Zumbach moved, Snodgrass seconded, and the Board held an executive session to review or discuss records that are required by law to be kept confidential as provided by Iowa Code Section 21.5(1)(a).  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.   Went into an executive session at 7:57 p.m.

James moved, Snodgrass seconded,  out of the executive session.  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0 Came out of closed executive session at 8:20 p.m.

James moved, and Zumbach seconded, that the Board approved the Superintendent’s recommendation that the student who was the subject of the disciplinary hearing be expelled Caydence Wiese from the Creston Community School District through December 19, 2025 and  2nd semester on-line of 2025-2026, and that written findings and conclusions consistent with the Board’s deliberation be prepared, signed by the Board president, and mailed by the Board Secretary to the student and family.  Motion carried Roll Call 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 8:24 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Special Board Meeting
• Monday, October 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, November 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, December 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Special Board Meeting

September 30, 2025

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, starting at 5:31 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender and Taylor Royster.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser was present.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

Mr. Stender presented a sealed recommendation regarding the termination of an employment contract to the board president. 

Snodgrass moved, and James seconded, that the board president receive the recommendation regarding the termination of an employment contract and file it with the board secretary.  Motion carried 4-0. Mohr abstained due to a conflict of interest.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 5:32 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Tuesday, September 30, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Special Board Meeting
• Monday, October 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, November 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, December 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

Regular Board Meeting

October 20, 2025

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Monday, October 20, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, as well as virtually, starting at 5:30 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Galen Zumbach, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Callie Anderson, and Billie Jo Greene.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser was present.

The  President asked the members and audience to face the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

Public hearing for the proposed resolution to continue participation in the Instructional Support Levy commenced at 5:31 p.m. with an open invitation to the community. During the hearing, no oral or written objections were received regarding the resolution to continue participation in the Instructional Support Levy. Hearing closed at 5:32 p.m. 

 

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve consent agenda items: Motion carried 5-0.

• Minutes of September 15, 2025, September 29, 2025 #1, September 29, 2025 #2, September 30, 2025.
• Financial Reports
• Bills
• Contracts, Resignations, Agreements
  • Resignations
    • Christina Long- Paraprofessional
    • Tonya Dillenburg- Food Service
  • Contracts
    • Justice Belt- Paraprofessional
    • Tessa Miller- Paraprofessional
    • Michael Pettit- Food Service
    • Ashley Wantland- Custodian
    • Zoey Vandevender- MS Girls Head Wrestling Coach
    • Shyla Stow- MS Student Government
  • Southwest Iowa Driver’s Education Agreement
• Donations were received as follows: an anonymous donor contributed $200 to High School Activities with appreciation for the senior passes and permission for the funds to be used as needed; the Kiwanis Club donated $300 to the Nurse’s Fund for the purchase of lice kits; and the Kiwanis Club also contributed $300 to support the Reading Program.
• Volunteers for district activities included Stephanie Anderson, Carie Austin, Katie Goodenberger, Lori Harvey, Chris Lane, Kimberly Orr, Jennifer Strunk, Winter Taylor, Janet Thompson, Kathryn Thorne Ralston, Travis Webber, Nicole Webber, Kohl Ringer, Austin Seaton, AJ Warner, Andrew Hitz, Sarah Scull, and Jennifer Veitz. Additionally, Melinda Abel volunteered for Reads, Activities, and Classroom support.
• Approve Trish Dickinson as the District Homeless Coordinator
• Approve Bill Messerole as the District 504 Coordinator
• Equity Coordinator/Affirmative Action:  Deron Stender
• 2025-2026 additional payment for activities

Communication and reports

• PK-4 Principal Anderson - The curriculum team reported that the elementary building is in the process of adopting new English Language Arts curriculum resources that align with the science of reading and support a comprehensive literacy program. Pilot units will take place in November and February, with all purchases funded through curriculum accounts and approved by Trish Carson. Assessment discussions included reviewing screening and ISASP data from Spring 2025, as well as the Iowa School Performance Profile designation. Instructional teams continue to analyze intervention data to support students who need additional help and to extend learning for those who are proficient. Preliminary class counts for the 2025–2026 school year were shared, showing steady enrollment across grade levels (PK through 4th), along with an update on the Title IA budget for 2025–2026.
• Business Manager Greene’s Report - The monthly financial reports. School Board Election is November 4, 2025
• Superintendent Stender’s Report -  The district reported that the new EMS office and kindergarten classrooms are now occupied, with construction reaching substantial completion. While minor finishing work remains, full completion of Phase B is anticipated before winter break, and a community open house will be scheduled once the entire project is finished. The building project contingency fund remains unchanged, with $184,655.77 in change orders processed and a balance of $553,644.23. Following the October 1 student count and October 15 certification, district enrollment data is being analyzed, and a comprehensive report will be presented at the November 20 Board meeting. Mr. Stender attended the Rural School Advocates of Iowa annual meeting to contribute to the development of the legislative platform supporting rural education. Efforts continue to sell the 801 N. Elm Street property, with a goal of identifying a buyer by January to avoid demolition; recent vandalism at the site resulted in over $7,000 in losses. Mrs. Downing also shared information on the middle school’s food assistance program, which supports local families and was recently featured in an article highlighting community need. The November regular Board meeting has been rescheduled to Thursday, November 20, at 5:30 p.m.
• Mr. Stender read the following statement:  The school district is aware of the latest ruling in Case No. 4:25-cv-00373-RGE-HCA. This ruling requires the private hearing with the school board scheduled for Tuesday, October 21, to be continued at this time. Therefore, tomorrow night’s special board meeting is canceled. The matter may be rescheduled pending further court action. As this is an active litigation matter as well as a personnel matter, there is no further comment at this time. The district's focus from the beginning has been to provide a safe, orderly, and effective school environment in which students can learn and succeed, and this work will continue.
• Early Childhood Facility Planning - Tentative Timeline, budget, and project spending.

Zumbach moved, and James seconded, to approve the resolution to continue participation in the Instructional Support Levy (ISL). Motion carried 5-0.

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve the request to the SBRC for a modified supplemental amount of $7,135.54 due to excess costs of providing the EL program in the prior year.  Motion carried 5-0.

Zumbach moved, and Sharon seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 5:51 p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

Future meetings in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Thursday, November 20, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting, date change

Monday, December 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Me

Creston Community School District

Board of Directors Meeting

November 20, 2025

Regular Board Meeting

 

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Thursday, November 20, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, as well as virtually, starting at 5:31 p.m. Don Gee, Board President, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, Galen Zumbach, and Sharon Snodgrass.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Bill Messerole, Callie Anderson, Taylor Royster, Trish Carson, and Billie Jo Greene.

The president asked the members and audience to face the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.

The board meeting was unable to be recorded due to technical issues.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser was present.

Zumbach moved, and Mohr seconded, to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

There was no public forum participation.

Zumbach moved, and Snodgrass seconded, to approve consent agenda items:  Motion carried 5-0.

• Minutes of October 20, 2025
• Financial Reports
• Bills
• Contracts, Resignations, agreements
  • Resignations
    • Rebecca Morris- Paraprofessional
    • Ashley Wantland- Custodian
    • Abbi Hood- Kindergarten Teacher (end of the school year 2025-26)
  • Contracts
    • Trystyn Darnold- Bus Driver
    • Britney Walton- Paraprofessional
  • Agreements
    • Iowa AEA E-Rate Consulting
    • DSM Dance Party DJs
    • Green Hill AEA Election Ballot-Board selected Connie Maxson
• Volunteers
  • Jodi Hitz - Activities
• Fundraiser additions as presented.

Communication and reports

• Student and Staff Recognition- Several students earned notable conference, district, and state-level honors this season. In volleyball, Kadley Bailey and Jaycee Hanson received Honorable Mention recognition on the Hawkeye 10 All-Conference team, and both were also selected to participate in the KMA Land All-Star Volleyball Series under Head Coach Naomi Sharp. In football, multiple athletes were named to the Class 3A District 6 All-District Team, including First Team selections Jace Purdum, Gunner Martwick, Tanner Ray, Tom Mikkelsen, and Seth Gordon; Second Team honorees Jackson Pettegrew, Rhett Driskell, Garrick Clausen, Coltyr Frey, and Casen Scarberry; and Honorable Mention recipients Davin Wallace, Blake Hayes, Chasse Downing, Gabe Kaufman, and Lane Travis. Additionally, Caitlin Austin and Chaylee Needham both earned Division I ratings and finished in the top 10 in Solo Color Guard, qualifying them to perform at the state championships in December. Congratulations to all students and coaches for proudly representing our schools.
• Middle School Principal Downing’s Report - Absent and written report was available.
• High School Principal Messerole’s Report - An update on academic performance and conference membership changes. Rank order data from last spring’s ISASP shows the school earned a rating of Commendable but was moved to Acceptable due to insufficient growth in the number of students reaching proficiency, despite math students with IEPs outperforming the state average in growth. Additional details are included in the Director of Student Services report. An update on the Hawkeye 10 Conference noted that Lewis Central, Shenandoah, and Red Oak will exit the conference after the 2025–2026 activity year, while Carroll High School has been approved to join beginning in 2026–2027. The conference will continue with nine strong and viable member schools moving forward.
• Director of District Service Ms. Carson - The district provided an update on Special Education, curriculum and instruction, assessments, and student support programs. Special Education staff continue to work closely with AEA representatives, Jennifer Haidsiak-Riggle and Lindsay Wetzal, with each building holding dedicated collaboration time focused on IEP learning and preparation for enhanced paraprofessional training planned for early 2026. In curriculum and instruction, the district is gathering information on current resources to ensure alignment with Iowa State Standards, beginning the K–12 ELA curriculum review cycle, piloting new elementary materials, and organizing teams’ Guaranteed and Viable Curriculum documentation. Instructional teams are also collecting data on practices related to Gradual Release of Responsibility, student engagement, and learning targets. Assessment updates include the use of FastBridge, local district assessments, and ISASP results for grades K–8, along with NWEA MAP Growth and ISASP for grades 9–12. The Talented and Gifted handbook and program review have been completed, with TAG services led by Danielle Flores. The English Learner team has finalized and approved the district’s Lau Plan, clarifying standards and services for students. Additionally, the district’s homeless liaison continues to utilize McKinney-Vento resources to support families in need.
• Business Manager Greene’s Report - Financial review and certified enrollment updated, 2026-2027 school budget timeline.
• Superintendent Stender’s Report -The district provided an update on the Early Childhood Center construction and property matters. The general contractor expects to turn over Phase B of the center by Thanksgiving break, with full project completion anticipated before winter break. A community open house will be held once the project is complete. An additional change order of $8,182.56 was issued this month, bringing total change orders to $184,655.77 and leaving a contingency fund balance of $547,616.57. Regarding the old ECC facility at 801 N Elm St., the board will consider formal public notice for its sale, following a legal process expected to take four to six months. The district is also preparing for possible demolition of the property, estimated at $650,000, should no purchaser emerge, with the process set to begin in January. Discussions with the City of Creston are underway regarding the transfer of ownership of the playground at this location. The board previously approved the disposal and sale of district property at the July 2025 meeting, and this effort continues, particularly for items at 801 N Elm St. Enrollment data following the October count is being analyzed, with a comprehensive report scheduled for the November 20 board meeting. The SIAC Committee held its first meeting on November 4 and will meet three times this year. Finally, a letter was sent to legislators requesting support for changes to the Educational Savings Account law to provide districts greater flexibility in allocating ESA revenue.
• Enrollment and State Aid Overview. Superintendent reviewed a summary of enrollment data based on the October 1 student count.  District enrollment decreased by 44.8 students.
• Early Childhood Facility Planning - Tentative Timeline, budget, and project spending.
• The board recognized Sharon Snodgrass and Galen Zumbach for their exceptional service and lifelong dedication to Creston Community Schools. Sharon contributed 53 years as an educator and board member, and Galen contributed 47 years, representing a combined century of service to public education. Both were honored for their leadership, integrity, and commitment to putting students first. In appreciation of their contributions, a $100 donation will be made to Dollars for Scholars in their honor.

Zumbach moved, and Snodrass seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 6:23  p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

 

Organizational Meeting for 2025-2026

 

The Board of Directors of the Creston Community School District met on Thursday, November 20, 2025.  The meeting was held in the AEA Conference Room at 257 Swan Street, as well as virtually, starting at 6:26 p.m. Billie Jo Greene, Board Secretary, presided, and the following answered the roll call: Don Gee, Dr. Amanda Mohr, Dr. Brad James, Kathy Thorne Ralston, and MaKinze Vonk.  Administrators present: Deron Stender, Bill Messerole, Callie Anderson, Taylor Royster, Trish Carson, and Billie Jo Greene.

The board meeting was unable to be recorded due to technical issues.

A representative from the Creston News Advertiser was present.

 

Mohr moved, and James seconded to approve the agenda. Motion carried 5-0.

 

Gee moved, and James seconded, to approve the certification of the November 4, 2025, school board election with Kathy Thorne Ralston receiving 958 votes, Dr. Amanda Mohr receiving 922 votes, and MaKenzi Vonk receiving 875 votes.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

The Oath of Office was given to the elected board members, Kathy Thorne Ralston, Dr. Amanda Mohr, and MaKenzi Vonk.

 

James nominated Don Gee for the Office of President.  Seconded by Mohr.  Motion carried 5-0.   The oath of office was administered to Don Gee, the newly elected president. 

 

Board Secretary Greene turned the board meeting over to the newly elected Board President Gee.

 

James nominated Dr. Amanda Mohr for the Office of Vice President. Seconded by Ralston.  Roll call vote motion carried 5-0.  The oath of office was administered to Dr. Amanda Mohr newly elected vice president.

 

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve Billie Jo Greene as School Board Secretary and School Board Treasurer through June 2026 and Taylor Royster as School Board Secretary and School Board Treasurer, July 2026 through  November 2026.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and James, to approve school board meetings to be held on the third Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted in the AEA boardroom at 257 Swan St.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and Vonk seconded, to approve Director Brad James as the Union County Conference Board Representative and Director Don Gee as the Adams County Conference Board Representative.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and Ralston seconded to approve the Creston News Advertiser as the district’s official newspaper.  Motion carried 5-0. 

 

James moved, and Vonk seconded, to adopt a resolution that Creston Community School District of Creston, IA, in Union County, IA, approve Iowa State Savings Bank as a financial institution to be the depository of Creston Community School District funds in conformance with all applicable provisions of Iowa Code Chapters 452 and 453 (1993) as amended by 1984 Iowa Acts, S.F. 2220.  The business manager, board secretary, and board treasurer are hereby authorized to deposit Creston Community School funds at IASB.  Naming Iowa State Savings Bank up to $20,000,000 and PMA up to $20,000,000 as the financial institutions of the depository.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve Ahlers & Cooney Law Firm as the District Legal Counsel.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve director Gee and director Ralston as lead negotiators to negotiate with the Creston Education Association and AFSCME Local 3467.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to approve the request for proposals to sell real property locally known as 801 N. Elm Street..  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Ralston moved, and James seconded, to approve the first-semester early graduation list pending successful completion of the graduation requirements as set forth by the Board of Education and the state of Iowa.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

Mohr moved, and James seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 6:38  p.m.  Motion carried 5-0.

 

 

_______________________________________           ________________________________________

                          President                                                                         Secretary

 

 

Future meetings in the Creston boardroom at 257 Swan Street, Creston, unless otherwise noted:

• Monday, December 15, 2025, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, January 19, 2026, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting
• Monday, February 16, 2026, 5:30 p.m., Regular Board Meeting