April 21, 2014 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Doll recognized elementary students for raising funds for the American Heart Association. Winn spoke regarding the coordination of events and stated that Lincoln Elementary was a leader in the process competing with eastern Nebraska districts.

Discussion:  George Schlothauer provided an update on the VALTS program and offered to answer any questions. Schlothauer also oversees the Juvenile Detention Center. Topics discussed included proposed changes, location of the program, associated programs, classroom usage and specifics, the history of enrollment and participating districts, goals, Gering graduation rates, vocational and career activities, suspension rates, student recognition, district requirements, state assessments, target populations, reasons why students enroll at VALTS, class schedules, Exploratory Fridays (where students can develop career related skills)and cooperative relationships with local entities. Schlothauer also shared a link to the quarterly newsletter and shared information about a field trip to the Denver Museum of Natural Sciences. Brunner said that he has heard many people commend the job that Schlothauer has been doing since taking over the program. Peters confirmed that Gering Counselors work closely with VALTS students.

Discussion:  Peters stated that the committee spent the bulk of their time discussing strategic planning, which is scheduled for June of 2014. One of the core areas is student learning, which is a Curriculum Committee mission. Half day sessions and representatives were discussed in detail. The committee also discussed switching from Terra Nova testing to MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) testing, which is more widely utilized in Nebraska. The MAP testing program can provide more immediate results since it is online. Hastings said Career Academies and course requirements were discussed; discussions will continue with other committees prior to being presented to the full board.

Discussion:  Upp said that the Facilities Committee discussed committee goals and strategic planning. Other topics included how this committee cooperates with the other Board Committees in developing better working relationships. The committee toured the High School and reviewed a list of "wants" versus "needs" and worked to determine priorities, which include the weight room/locker rooms, the building's HVAC issues, building security and needed electrical updates to keep up with technology. The committee will do the same type of review at each district building prior to developing committee short range and long range goals. The track project is pending weather conditions.

Discussion:  Copsey informed the Board that the Business Committee reviewed and approved the bill listing for March, as well as discussed facility usage regarding high risk activities that may require increased insurance rates. The Committee also reviewed the After School Report and school lunch balances.

Discussion:  Meisner reviewed the district financial reports.

Discussion:  Winn informed the Board that George Holthus & Jason Rodgers from the Gering Police Department presented information regarding a School Resource Officer (SRO). Gering is the only Class B district in Nebraska that does not utilize this position. The distributed a handout to the committee that laid out benefits for both the district and the police department. After discussing this possibility, the committee will likely ask representatives from the police department to meet with district staff to discuss and determine timeline for implementation. Secondary administrators shared information on how this position could assist them. Hastings provided a personnel update to the committee.

Discussion:  Hastings informed the Board that NESA testing is in progress. Hastings also spoke regarding the amount of time and number of tests being provided to students at various grade levels, as well as the transition to a new testing process. Hastings said that state aid was certified and he is excited to see a moderate increase in state aid next year. His primary goal will be to return the Gering district to healthy financial position. Gering spends $955 per student less than the state average and will continue to be fiscally responsible while providing a high level of education. A revision is in progress for the Language Arts Standards, which occurs every five years according to state statute. Hastings provided the Board with the Nebraska Department of Education website address and encouraged all to comment on the standards as well as take a survey. This is the only opportunity to provide input in this process. Strategic Planning estimated time frame is tentatively in June and Hastings will provide firm dates within the next week or two.

Discussion:  Hastings explained that Bob Anderson submitted his resignation letter, but because a quality applicant could not be secured, Anderson stated that he would be willing to commit to another year of teaching. Hastings explained that Justin Reinmuth will be transferred to the Jr. High and will work closely with Anderson. The Board expressed their gratitude to Anderson for putting the district's needs above his personal retirement.

Discussion:  Hastings provided background information on this agreement, which renews every two years. The Board feels that this is a good program for Gering students and is mutually beneficial to both district.

Discussion:  Doll explained that a Public Hearing regarding an Interlocal Cooperative Agreement and Bonds on behalf of the District for Technology was held prior to the Board Meeting. Brunner read the recommended motion aloud. Hastings clarified the use of "libraries" in the agreement.

Discussion:  Doll provided background information regarding the original 3 year Superintendent contract. The first year is nearly complete and the Board is extremely pleased with the leadership Hastings has provided and the course that he has mapped out for the district's future. The Board noted Hastings has had a very full plate during his first year, and the Board is grateful for his leadership abilities. Brunner stated that it is important to thank Hastings for his work during this past year and wanted to publicly go on record as showing support for the direction the district is headed in. Peters thanked Hastings for taking on such a large workload and moving the district in the right direction. Doll said he is looking forward to and is excited to see the direction this district is headed. He also expressed appreciation for Hasting's efforts. Winn stated that she likes the concept of integrating a technology integration position and believe it is key to utilizing technology and adding to teacher comfort. Winn appreciates Hasting's insight in that area.

Discussion:  The Personnel Committee Meeting has been scheduled for 5/8/14 at 4:30pm. Doll reminded committee members to secure a substitute if they are unable to attend a meeting.

Discussion:  Peters reminded the board that delayed maintenance catches up in time, so he believes it is in the districts best interest to address facility maintenance issues in a timely fashion. Winn recognized DECA students at the High School for qualifying eleven students for Nationals. That number has doubled from last year. Winn also recognized the High School Yearbook Staff, who won the Class B Journalism Competition for the fourth year in a row. Winn also stated that this year's High School musical was great. Brunner stated that he loves to see Gering graduates come back to Gering for employment. Brunner wished Gene Russel all the best as he transitions into school administration. Copsey said that Shelly Revelle, Dee Brady, Any Stobel and Jason DeMaranville did a great job on the High School Musical Cinderella. Brunner also recognized Janelle Schultz for her contributions to the Quill & Scroll Program. Gering scored 63 points, with the runners up scoring 26. Thirty individual awards were taken at State this year by Gering students. Hastings reminded the Board that a district music event will take place on Thursday at WNCC around lunch time and will highlight the Gering concert band. Upp urged all to support fundraising efforts by DECA members. Upp also provided a shout out to DeMaranville for his work with the group.