Rationale:  Executive Summary:

On January 26, 2022, I received a notification in written form from Ms. Emily Conyac that she was resigning her position at SEM at the completion of the 2021-2022 school year.  

Ms. Conyac has met all obligations for notification of resignation.  The board's acceptance of her resignation at this time is a formality.  It also provides the board with an opportunity to thank Ms. Conyac and wish her well in her future endeavors, if you are inclined to do so. 

Rationale:  Executive Summary:
Policy REF: 6010 Special Education

This is an annual board agenda item.  This agreement is between ESU 10 and SEM schools to provide state and federally mandated SPED program services.  I have attached the services provided by ESU 10.  I would recommend the board approve this agreement, which will help keep us in compliance with SPED Law. 

Rationale:  Executive Summary:
 Within policy 3040 it states, "The school’s facilities may not be used for funeral or memorial services during the school day, without the consent of the board of education."

I understand the intent behind this portion of the policy, but I have concerns about how it can be used in a timely manner.  For example,  I was notified by a family of the passing of one of their loved ones, and they were requesting the use of the gym.  At the time of the phone call, the family was working with the mortuary on the funeral and needed an answer as soon as possible.  If we were to follow this policy, it would take at least 48 hours to call a special meeting and be able to respond.  I think this would only cause additional stress for a family already in mourning.

 I recommend that the policy be adopted for one of two alternatives, other than waiting for at least 48 hours to make plans.

1. Change the policy to state, without the consent of the Superintendent.   OR
2. Do not allow funerals in the gym. 

 

Rationale:  Executive Summary:

We are looking to approve the 5000 series policies.  If these policies were approved, this month we would be looking at reviewing this policy.  KBS School Law has provided us with review information and a recommendation to include in policy Student Directory Information.  

Currently, this information is included in our forms section and is placed in our handbook.  This addition to the policy, states specifically the information that is approved to be in the policy.  

The board is justified in making the directory information part of the policy, and the items listed are fully supported by NDE. 

Rationale:  REF:  Negotiated Agreement.  A legal document between the SEM Board of Education and the SEM Education Association. 
 

GENERAL-PURPOSE

"The Board and the Association recognize that the development of a quality educational program for the children attending the public schools of the District is a joint responsibility, which can best be achieved by an agreement that all parties work toward common goals. The Board and the Association entered into this agreement with mutual dedication, recognizing that the experience, creativity, and judgment of all parties are necessary to meet the educational needs of the community."
 

Rationale:  Executive Summary:

During the 2021 Legislative Session, a bill was passed that would require all public school districts in Nebraska to add Financial Literacy as a graduation requirement.  This bill was signed into law on August 28, 2021, by the governor after most school districts had already started the 2021-2022 school year. 

This law goes into effect immediately and will affect the class of 2024 and all those who follow them.  The law indicates the course must be a minimum of 5 academic credit hours, which is reflected in a single semester course. 

We have several options on how to implement this course.  It is not restricted to or targeting sophomore students.  Mr. Schmidt will be working with Mrs. Kenton to determine the best schedule fit for this class at SEM.

The NDE has provided some "recommended courses".  The law (79-3002) defines the requirements as, but not limited to, "knowledge and skills regarding budget and financial record keeping; banking; taxes; establishing, building, maintaining, and monitoring credit; debt; savings; risk management; insurance; and investment strategies."  HOWEVER. "personal finance, is not defined by state statute.

Executive Recommendation:

I recommend that the Board approves the change in graduation requirements from 250 credits to 255 credit hours, specifically requiring Financial Literacy as a requirement beginning with the class of 2024.
 

Rationale:  Executive Summary:

The board needs to annually identify its official depository for routine banking purposes.

I recommend that the board make a motion to approve five-point banks as their official depository. 

Rationale:  The members of the board negotiations committee request that the board discuss the possibilities of offering a TERIP to the teachers.  The TERIP would be for the 2022-2023 school year.