New London School Board closes out 2025

The New London School Board met for the last time this year on Dec. 15. The board approved the agenda and the consent agenda. The consent agenda included minutes of the previous meeting, financial reports, claims, and donations. The donations are from Golden Harvest for $500 to the NL Ag/FFA and $5,000 awarded from the Henry County Community Foundation. No one addressed the board in open forum.

Next up were reports. The Superintendent discussed that he, Allison Lair, and Tori Kenel have been going into elementary classrooms to observe the Book Worms reading program. This group was pleased with the program and gave the teachers that were observed constructive feedback.

Principal Palmatier discussed the ongoing effort to track every student in the elementary in reading and math components at their grade level. Other activities included making a seasonal ornament with assistance from the PTO and available high school students.

Principal Kracht discussed the K-12 winter concert and that second semester scheduling is winding up. The Career Fair” is planned for Feb. They observed the program “The Leader in Me” that Central Lee uses and felt it could be adapted for New London.

The following personnel issues were acted on after a lengthy discussion on family members of the board and board voting. It was settled to the board’s satisfaction:

· Darrin Loyd — HS head football coach — resignation approved

· Damon Loyd — HS assistant football coach — resignation approved

· Kinsey Michelson — guidance counselor — resignation approved

· Kim Strothman — special education associate — resignation approved

In board business, the board took the following actions:

· Approved SBRC authorization request for increase OE Out and EL instruction

· Approved modified supplemental amount for at-risk program

· Approved changing the Feb. board meeting from Feb. 16 to Feb. 17, 2026

They discussed IASB (Iowa Association of School Boards) training and how and when the New London members could participate.

The meeting adjourned at approximately 6:41 p.m. The next regular meeting of the New London school board will be Jan. 19, 2026 at 6 p.m. at the MS/HS Success Center.