February 17, 2020 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Principal Wiedeman recognized Lindy Hiatt as a calming force always maintaining composure, and accomplishing a wide array of work behind the scenes.  Board member Mary Winn added some wisdom to the matter sharing when she graduated with her degree in education, she was advised the most important people you can have on your side are the building secretary and the custodian.  

 

Discussion:  In addition to portraying the history, general framework, and community service piece of the program, VALTS Director George Schlothauer presented student success stories from the program including one highlighting last year's scholarship recipient who has maintained a 3.5 GPA in his first year of college.  Over the life of the program, 170+ Gering students have graduated.  This total is equivelant to an entire senior class at GHS.  Also sharing her personal account of the impact VALTS has on students was current senior Teegan Moreno.  In closing, Mr. Schlothauer announced that she was this year's chosen scholarship recipient.  She plans to attend WNCC to pursue an associates degree in Childhood Development.  Board member Mary Winn commended Mr. Schlothauer on the wonderful, personally tailored messages she has witnessed at each graduation ceremony.  Brent Holliday added his appreciation for the investment in a program that offers students a second chance.  

 

Discussion:  Mary Winn elaborated on the curriculum action item to be voted on tonight.  The materials have a life expectancy of 7 years, and the purchase agreement includes 30 classroom books, as well as digital access rights.  

Discussion:  Committee chair Brady Shaul recapped GHS construction closing conversations.  Brent Holliday inquired about the status of the retainer with the proposed payout.  Shaul stated a retainer will remain until punch list items are complete.  
 

Discussion:  Chairperson Josh Lacy noted a Transportation RFP which resulted in the return of one bid.  With this, services will remain with First Student.  As expected, rates will increase slightly in line with expectation.  Additionally, bids were received for the installation of new bleachers at the Junior High.  Heartland Seating was selected for the contract, and installation will begin over the summer.  

 

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings offered insight on the current proposed property tax legislation which would affect the funding of public schools in Nebraska.  

Discussion:  Board President B.J. Peters reflected on the impact Mr. Plummer had on students at Gering High School over the past four decades.  Superintendent Hastings noted his expressed desire to stay involved.  
 

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings noted that after payment, the district will maintain approximately a $200,000 retainer.  Some of the additional services will not be billed due to the project over extending the deadline.  Two additional pay applications will follow, anticipated in later spring and early summer.  Hastings commended Hausman for their continued on-site support as well as the leadership of Josh Berger.  
 

Discussion: 

Science Adoption Description:

The Gering High School (9-12) science department has selected the following materials to aid in delivery of their curriculum beginning with the 2020-2021 school year.  

• McGraw Hill Education

  • Zoology $ 4,593.60

  • Inspire Earth Science $13,740.00

  • Inspire PhysicalScience $13,740.00

  • Inspire Biology $13,740.00

    • Shipping $ 3,665.09

      • TOTAL $49,478.69

• Pearson

  • Experience Chemistry $10,018.65

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology $13,942.00

  • Forensic Science:  An Introduction $ 7,453.20

  • The Cosmic Perspective (Astronomy) $ 7,373.50

  • Professional Development $ 1,900.00

    • Shipping $ 2,026.70

      • TOTAL $42,714.05

TOTAL FOR BOTH $92,192.74

During the 2019-2020 school year, the science department worked on alignment of standards within current instruction.  They had restructured the department the previous year to allow more semester courses allowing students more choice. They also worked on restructuring the freshman level course to incorporate more earth science standards.  This restructure will help students gain requirements to take upper level science courses earlier in their high school career as well as make the course more relevant.

Discussion: 

Science Adoption Description:

The Gering High School (9-12) science department has selected the following materials to aid in delivery of their curriculum beginning with the 2020-2021 school year.  

• McGraw Hill Education

  • Zoology $ 4,593.60

  • Inspire Earth Science $13,740.00

  • Inspire PhysicalScience $13,740.00

  • Inspire Biology $13,740.00

    • Shipping $ 3,665.09

      • TOTAL $49,478.69

• Pearson

  • Experience Chemistry $10,018.65

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology $13,942.00

  • Forensic Science:  An Introduction $ 7,453.20

  • The Cosmic Perspective (Astronomy) $ 7,373.50

  • Professional Development $ 1,900.00

    • Shipping $ 2,026.70

      • TOTAL $42,714.05

TOTAL FOR BOTH $92,192.74

During the 2019-2020 school year, the science department worked on alignment of standards within current instruction.  They had restructured the department the previous year to allow more semester courses allowing students more choice. They also worked on restructuring the freshman level course to incorporate more earth science standards.  This restructure will help students gain requirements to take upper level science courses earlier in their high school career as well as make the course more relevant.

Discussion:  Board President B.J. Peters thoughtfully advised against entering into executive session to ensure transparency in the proceedings.  First, he addressed that timing was a factor in the decision of whether to conduct a full search for a Superintendent versus assigning an interim.  Board member Mary Winn inquired if proposals from other firms this fall would be a possibility if NASB Option#3 was elected tonight.  Brent Holliday asked if tonight's vote would bind the district to the decision of assigning an interim?   President B.J. Peters stated no, it would not; Only the hiring of NASB.  Mary Winn reflected on the hiring of Superintendent Hastings stating it is an intensive, time consuming process.  Once interviews start, Board members will essentially put their personal lives on hold to conduct the necessary steps involved with completing the district needs assessment, interview and hiring.  

Discussion: 

Future Board Meetings

Second Board Meeting - Tues, February 25 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

Regular Board Meeting - Mon, March 16 @ 6:00 p.m. (City Council Chambers)

Second Board Meeting - Tues, March 24 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

 

Tentative Committee Meeting Dates:

Policy Review Committee --  Mon, February 24 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Personnel Committee  --  Thurs, February 27 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)

Curriculum Committee  --  Tues, March 3 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Facilities Committee  --  Thurs, March 5 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)

Business Committee  --  Mon, March 9 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)  

Discussion:  Josh Lacy offered opening remarks as he thanked George Schlothauer for his presentation.  During his time serving on the VALTS Board, Mr. Lacy has witnessed the program continually evolving with new projects and community interactions.  He congratulated Teegan Moreno on receiving the scholarship stating "you can see how much it meant for her and her family."  Further, he reflected on the scholarship support he received at graduation which made it possible for him to attend college.  Mary Winn congratulated the GHS wrestling team on their win at Districts.  She had recently attended the elementary PLC's, and highlighted the collaboration, consistency, and shared sense of direction in fine tuning the report card pilot program.  Mary was impressed with what they are doing.  Brent Holliday has been thoroughly impressed with every visit to VALTS.  He stated a lot kids in the world were told they would never amount to anything, and they have changed the world.  Next, he thanked Superintendent Hastings for his leadership at Gering Public Schools noting that their personalities contrasted (introvert versus extrovert), but that has been good for him.  As a new board member, Hastings took a lot of calls from Holliday which helped him grow.  Brady Shaul shared the same sentiments on VALTS, and the impact it has on students.  He is glad the bond project is coming to close.  President B.J. Peters noted Superintendent Hastings support as essential to keeping the Board's promise to voters.  The $25 million dollar project will be completed on budget.  In closing, he indicated tonight was not the first time seeing a VALTS student cry. The program means a lot to those students.  We have many great high schools in the area, but it is not for everyone.  George Schlothauer connects with students, and relationships matter.  It isn't always about standards and assessment - it's about giving kids a chance.  Additionally, family involvement leads to success.  There were many people here for Teegan tonight who have undoubtedly made a difference in her life.  Superintendent Hastings, thank you for your committment!  

Discussion:  7:08 P.M.