Board hears report on merger of cooperatives
The New Prague Area School Board held a brief meeting Monday, Nov. 26, with one of the biggest items a report on the upcoming merger between the Carver Scott Educational Cooperative (CSEC) and the Minnesota River Valley Special Education Cooperative (MRVSEC). Board member Dennis Havlicek, reported on the status of the status of the merger which is expected to be completed by July 1, 2013. New Prague is a member of both organizations, and Havlicek represents New Prague on the board. He said that the board has decided to continue with the cooperative model, rather than trying to form an Intermediate District. “We felt it was not the time to make the jump to an intermediate district, he said. “Still, it leaves the option open in the future.” Havlicek added that the boards are working on bylaws of both groups, looking for similarities and ironing out differences. Also at Monday’s meeting: • Board members talked about the success of the high school musical production of Grease. Board Chair Jerry Walerius noted that the performances were sold out and it was a great experience. Havlicek noted that the production had good attendance from the student body. • Superintendent Larry Kauzlarich read a letter from a parent of a special education student at Falcon Ridge Elementary praising work of the staff in setting the student’s Individual Education Program. • The board accepted a gift from the New Prague Area Community Foundation of $8,150 to provide SEEDS training to local child and preschool providers. Kauzlarich stated that SEEDS is a pre-school literacy program. • Board members approved a memorandum of understanding with the teachers amending the master agreement to clarify a medical deductible reimbursement option available for staff members. • Kauzlarich noted that the Technology Exploring Committee would hold its first meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 27. The next board meeting will be on Thursday, Dec. 13. It will be the only scheduled meeting for December and will include the annual Truth in Taxation hearing.
