The Federal District School Council awarded students and staff | News, Sports, Vacancies

The first group of students and staff of the month was honored at Monday’s Fort Dodge School District board meeting.

Kindergarten student Andrew Anderberg, seventh grader Madisyn Smith and senior Brandt Waller were recognized along with Director of Security Roger Porter. Underberg was nominated by Early Childhood Center teacher Kirby Smith; Smith was nominated by Team Seven Plum; Waller was nominated by high school social studies teacher Todd Constable; and Porter was nominated by the county’s Early Childhood Center.

The council approved the proposal for early retirement in 2024-2025. Superintendent Josh Porter noted that 68 employees are currently eligible for the program.

Board members also approved a request for a modified additional amount of $192,687.27 to cover the special education deficit for 2023-24. The shortfall was a common expense for the district and has happened in other districts, according to Brandon Hansel, the district’s executive director of financial services.

Porter also discussed the certified enrollment report with the board. The district currently has 3,426 students, down 94 from 2023-24.

“This is a trend that is happening across the state.” – he said. “There are open enrollment options, ESA guidelines are changing and online offerings are available. The biggest ones are online academies because they are popping up everywhere.”

Philhaver Elementary School Principal Sarah Fitzgerald and Human Services Director Kim Whitmore briefed the board on several highlights. Fitzgerald spoke about a new sign at the school entrance and a commitment to strengthening literacy and character programs for the 2024-25 school year.

Whitmore spoke about the 30 new teachers who have joined the district’s faculty and the success of events earlier in the year.