During a meeting Monday morning, the Rugby Public School District No. 5 Board of Education approved the first reading of required policies stemming from a recent federal monitoring audit.

The first set of policies were for students deemed “English Learner” or “Limited English Proficient.” The policies set plans in place for ensuring EL and LEP students participate in state assessments; inform parents of students’ needs; and providing appropriate educational services.

The second set was for homeless students. In the policy homeless students or “unaccompanied youth” are defined as individuals who lack “fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason.” The policies seek to “eliminate barriers” to instruction for students in that category, and puts dispute resolution procedures in place.

Other actions

– The board canvassed election results. Running unopposed, board member Brenda Heilman won reelection to Precinct #1.

– The board approved the first reading of a policy on licensed teacher stipends. If a teacher is asked to work beyond his or her contract, the district will pay him or her $175 for six hours of time. The new stipend rate begins after July 1.

– The board approved the first reading of a policy regarding continuing education for head coaches and activity advisers. The district will pay head coaches and advisers registration, per diem and lodging fees and provide a school vehicle for attending state conventions-limited to two within a five year period. The policy requires all grades 7-12 coaches to have a permit to coach within the district. To renew the permits (which must be done every five years), coaches must be certified in CPR and concussion management; and must be up-to-date on rules clinics. They must complete at least two requirements within five years of receiving a coaching permit: Attend one N.D. High School Coaches Association convention over five years, complete five hours of training at a national/state/local coaching clinic, complete a NFHS sport-specific course, and complete an NFHS elective (which include Engaging Effectively with Parents, Teaching and Modeling Behavior or the NCAA Eligibility Course).

– The board approved moving the date of the August meeting to Aug. 6, due to an Aug. 10 deadline for budget.

– The board approved amending the 2019-20 school calendar. The May 13, 2020 professional learning date was removed and an instructional day was added; Feb. 21, 2020 was added as a no school day; a professional learning day was moved from Feb. 19 to Feb. 26, 2020.

– The board approved the consent agenda, which included May meeting minutes, bills, financial reports and contract approvals.