Development News for Marshalltown, Iowa

Four Marshtown Students Named National Math Stars

The district recognized four students as National Math Star nominees for scoring in the top 2% of their age group statewide on recent math assessments. The students, Jackson GMA, Cooper, Clark Lewis Woodbury, and Everett Coleman Woodbury, were congratulated by the board and received medals and informational letters. The district highlighted the success of having four students recognized this year compared to one last year and emphasized the importance of math and science for future scholarships and careers.

Marshtown School District Addresses Legislative Priorities Amidst Funding Challenges

The board discussed legislative priorities for the district, noting the ongoing challenges in getting legislative attention for issues like supplemental state aid, school funding, and local control. Key priorities include mental health support, with a hopeful outlook on potential funding for full-day preschool. Teacher recruitment and retention remain a priority, though initial success in filling positions has recently seen new openings. The board plans to finalize the top four priorities at the next meeting, potentially through a survey to gather input.

District Secures Grant to Fund Three New School-Based Therapist Positions

The school district has received a grant for a school-based healthcare solutions network, which will fund three new school-based therapist positions for five years. The board approved the acceptance of this grant, which aims to support at-risk students and families, particularly those who are uninsured. The hiring process will involve screening by the grant providers before the district conducts interviews.

Marshtown School Board Reviews Policy Updates and Employee Handbook Revisions

The board reviewed several district policies and employee handbooks. Policies 401.5R1 (Employee Records Regulation), Recognition of Service of Employees, and 401.9 (Employee Political Activity) were marked as reviewed with no changes recommended. Board Policy 104 (Anti-Bullying and Harassment) and 104 R2 were presented with proposed wording changes to align with state law effective July 2025, removing categorical traits of bullying. These policies will return for a first reading. Updates were also made to various employee handbooks (Appendices A-G) and the main Employee Handbook, including changes to gender-inclusive language, personal leave policies, reporting absences, time clock usage, sick leave accrual, parental leave, jury duty pay, and workplace injury reporting. Most of these handbook changes are intended to create consistency across employee groups and align with current laws and practices. The appendices and employee handbook will be presented for approval at the next meeting.