April 17, 2017 at 6:00 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting

The following patrons spoke in favor of continuing the operation of Cedar Canyon Elementary:  Robert Rahmig, Becky Fitts, & Joni Cowan.  The following patron spoke in favor of closing Cedar Canyon:  Alan Doll.

BJ Peters reported about the discussion of the eligibility policy in the Curriculum Committee meeting.  The committee is working with Mr. Hubbard to revise the system in an effort to maintain high expectations and rigor, while providing necessary supports for students.  The committee is working to find a solution that won't discourage students from taking higher level classes.

Mr. Hastings reported on the facilities project at Gering High School.  On the 7th of April, the request for qualifications for a construction manager at risk were released. Proposals from potential bidders will be due May 12th by 2:00 p.m. Walk throughs have began with architect's staff and surveys will be completed soon.  The design team will have their initial meeting on April 26th.  Mr. Hastings also discussed legislative bills which could impact on the district.

Brian Copsey stated that all possible outcomes were heavily weighed before coming to a decision and that comments made by the patrons were helpful and greatly appreciated.  Mary Winn commented on all of the information that has been reviewed and was appreciative of all questions and the answers that were provided.  Brent Holliday stated that he has conversed with those who have children that attend Cedar Canyon School, and that he has considered all of the district's students well-being in his decision. 

Josh Lacey visited Cedar Canyon School and noted top notch teachers and students. He stated that he is very proud of the community, however, financially it would be in best benefit of the district for the closure of Cedar. Mary Winn wanted to acknowledge the great achievements in the past few weeks of students at the Chadron State Scholastic Contest, publication classes at the state competition, as well as the track team's performance. Brent Holliday attended the recent active shooter training at Northfield Elementary.  He stated that it was a sobering experience and incredibly valuable.  He gave his appreciation to the Gering Police Department for the ALICE training given to our schools. Brady Shaul also acknowledged the hard work Gering Police Department has dedicated to the Gering Schools.  He wanted the community to know that his decision regarding Cedar Canyon Elementary was not taken lightly.  Brady stated that he had been a student at the school and can empathize with the community.  BJ Peters commented that he is very impressed with the track team success and also was grateful to the Gering Police Department for the ALICE training.  Officer West, the school resource officer, advised the board that 200 staff has been through the training. ALICE training is another tool for the defense of the kids and to be taken very seriously.  Brian Copsey noted that over 60 students compete at the Scholastic Contest and invited the community to the school musical which starts Thursday April 20th, 2017. Brian also acknowledged the passion the patrons have for Cedar Canyon School.