January 20, 2025 at 6:30 PM - Monthly Meeting

Discussion:  Mrs. Thalheim was welcomed.  She shared that one of her classes at the HS were growing algae with different environmental factors.  They were also growing a large tank of algae like what is used for biodiesel.  Before Christmas break, one of her middle school classes had the annual egg drop and there was a success ... one egg did not break.  

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared the School Nutrition Program (SNP) three-year review findings and commendations with the board. All findings have been addressed and/or had a plan of action written up, and our review has been closed. 
 

Discussion:  The WKLL annual academic contest was held and the results have been shared.  Those students scoring in the top ten will be recognized at the awards banquet. Great job competing in the classroom as well as on the courts and fields.
 

Discussion:  At 7:10 PM the meeting returned to open session; no action taken. 

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman thanked the board members for their many hours of dedication to our school.  Amber presented each of them with a certificate of appreciation.  

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared that the topic of Rule 10 coaches has been brought up at different times in the past several years and thought it was a good time to revisit it.  Some discussions have been around whether a certified teacher as a coach or a Rule 10 coach is better qualified. Does student contact throughout the day influence coaching or affect accountability? This sparked some lively conversation.  In the end, there was a consensus that the board would prefer to make contract renewal decisions based on evaluations and performance of duties, rather than if they were certified staff or Rule 10.  It was also agreed that all coaches and sponsors should be evaluated yearly.  Mr. Gebhard had a copy of an old coach's manual that will be used as a skeleton to build how this process will look.  Mrs. Thalheim shared some of her past coaching experiences as well.  Mr. Tharman is going to contact other districts to see what they use for evaluating coaches. This will be an on-going discussion at the February board meeting. 

Discussion:  After discussion on possible dates, it was decided to have the board walk-through on February 20th. Shanna will make final arrangements at the February 10th board meeting. 

Discussion:  Mrs. Thalhem shared an updated rotation schedule with the board.  Over the past four years, there has been an increase in yearly costs of approximately $1,000 from the past schedule. Mrs. Thalheim will visit with the JH volleyball and football coaches to determine which is the greater need this year.  HS basketball warm-ups and the JH sport are able to be updated this year. 

Discussion:  Mr. Gebhard shared that at a summer workshop, there was discussion on vehicles having a crisis plan on board. At the last bus drivers' meeting, they had a good conversation on this topic and came up with a one-page crisis plan that could be accessed easily if needed.  Mr. Gebhard shared that document with the board.  

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared that the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) Consolidated File review has been completed and the Civil Rights Data Collection (CRDC) is almost complete. The FFA had a fun and successful trip to the National Western Livestock Show in Denver this past weekend. Jan. 22 - League Scholars Bowl in Ransom/ Jan. 28 - HS BB vs. Stockton (here)/ Jan. 30 - District Leadership Team mtg./ HS FACS chili cook-off/ Varsity Scholars Bowl in Norton/ Jan. 31 - HS BB in Ransom/ Feb. 1 - Forensic meet in Golden Plains/ Snowball Dance. Mr. Tharman also shared the Prepping for Negotiations training dates in February.  

Discussion:  Mr. Gebhard shared there are three more JH basketball games and the tournament left in the season. Jan. 21st grades 5 - 8 will have Mental Health First Aid presentations. LTR's training is continuing and they had another meeting today. The Kindergarten Readiness Committee is reconvening to discuss possible opportunities. Hansen Foundation has granted $21,000 towards the elevator/ lift project. Thank You to the Phillips County Community Foundation for donating $300 for student health needs.