February 20, 2012 at 7:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Meisner explained that the Business Committee had met and reviewed the district Treasurer's Report and recommends that the full board approve.

Discussion:  Winn mentioned that Scottsbluff has set their graduation date and time as the same as Gering and asked if the calendar was adopted by the board if that date would be flexible, and it would. High School Principal Hubbard will work with Scottsbluff district next year to ensure that the times are staggered even if they are held on the same day. Lisa will change the 2012-2013 School Calendar to reflect the time as "TBD". It was pointed out that Gering's date has remained consistent throughout the years and that Scottsbluff has changed their date. Miles requested information about early release days.

Discussion:  Lynette Richards, Project Coordinator for Project Extra Mile, extended an invitation to the Board to participate in an American Athletic Institute training session. A brief biography of presenter was given. This is the 3rd year he has been presenting and this year focuses on policy makers. The training will be offered via distance learning on Tuesday, March 20 from 11:30am to 1:00pm. The training can be received through any distance learning room in the school system. Richards reviewed the agenda and encouraged everyone on the board to participate. Brunner stated that he feels this is a timely topic and Richards confirmed that the presenter would be able to answer questions pertaining to the district's new drug testing procedures. There is no cost to attend the training, as funding is provided through Region I Prevention.

Discussion:  Brunner referred to Board Policy 205.02 - Policy Adoption - and declared the adoption of Board Policy 502.03 - Entrance Admissions - be adopted immeidately so it may be in effect as of March 1st, 2012. The delay on approval stems from a language change in the fourth paragraph. Policy 502.03 will be included on the March agenda for a second and final reading.

Discussion:  Peters recapped two building committee meetings. The first meeting consisted of a morning walkthrough for the committee. Peters stated that he is pleased with the progress at the Lincoln construction site. Peters informed the Board that the 2nd floor classroom side is moving along quickly. The ceiling grid is in place and now the data lines are being pulled. Most of the rock work is completed and the crew is now painting. The windows have been installed and there will be lots of color throughout the facility.

Discussion:  Discussions were held pertaining to the playground area at the new Lincoln Elementary. Peters personally prefers real grass but understands that other options may be considered. Used turf, which may be cost effective, is also being examined. Hague stated that the Building Committee could make the decision or the full board could make the call. Concerns in using real grass include traffic, winter maintenance, sprinklers, daily use and wear, maintenance expenses, etc. Concerns in using turn include a lack of warranty, cost of installation and drainage systems. The district may recieve a donation from KENO if they work with turf. Buffalo Grass has been considered but has been deemed unable to stand up to the rigors of daily traffic on the playground area but will be utilized in other aspects of landscaping. Miles questioned Principals Mary Kay Haun from Geil and Pam Barker from Northfield, as one has grass and one has turf. Haun stated that the turf is working well and is easy to maintain. The area is primarily used for soccer, but does serve other purposes for students. Barker stated that the grass is a cost issue. The grass has held up to the traffic but required quite a bit of maintenance during the summer months. Weeds are also an issue. Brunner advised the Board to leave the decision up to the Building Committee, but would like the committee to gather advise from outside sources, as well as previously worked with contractors. Winn suggested utilizing the Panhandle Extention Center. Schlothauer expressed his desire for turf, as it would allow for a cleaner entry into the building from the playground, thus avoiding mud, gravel, etc.

Discussion:  Winn stated that the Curriculum Committee has met twice in February. On February 2, the committee received presentations from Tyler Thompson and Broc Brown. Thompson's topics included essay information and literature coordination with other classes. Brown presented a summary of the first year of marketing class and DECA. A clearning house report was heard from High School Principal Eldon Hubbard. Data on past Gering classes was also examined. The school calendar for 2012-2013 was reviewed, as was the requested movement of 9 third graders from Geil Elementary. The second meeting was held on February 14th, when Curriculum & Assessment Director Terr Martin provided information on interventions at various levels in preparation for numerous tests this spring. District travel and conference attendance was discussed. After a joint meeting with the Scottsbluff Board of Education, the district learned that Scottsbluff will be withdrawing from VALTS. Winn stated that the committee has asked the Hubbard and Assistant Principal Shawn Seiler determine alternatives programs for Gering to develop.

Discussion:  Brunner informed the full board that the Business Committee received a visit from a Booster Club representative who shared concerns about the Club attaining their own 501(c)3. District auditors have requested these club funds be separated from district finances. An After School Program Quarterly Report was submitted from Cedar Canyon Principal Betty Smith. District bills and financial reports were reviewed. Also discussed was the purchase of playground equipment, furniture, BenQ's, anti virus software and turf. Lincoln change orders amd the 2012-2013 school calendar were examined.

Discussion:  Miles stated that the Personnel Committee met on February 8th. Brunner stood in for Peters, who was absent that day. Winn has also joined this committee. Miles explained that legal council for the district was in attendence to answer questions regarding changes in teacher negotiations and to provide clarification. The sick leave bank discussed, which may flow thru the Policy Review Committee. Booster Club accounts were discussed and the district is on schedule with staff evaluatios.

Discussion:  Hague told the Board that there will be some important meetings next week, including Policy Review, a joint meeting between the Business Committee and the Scottsbluff Board of Education to determine the future of bussing within both districts.

Discussion:  Winn enjoyed joint meeting with the Scottsbluff Board of Education and found it helpful. Winn was a judge at a speech meet in Alliance and encouraged anyone who is interested to tour their fine arts facility. Miles co-chaired a Lions Club game and thanked both Gering and Scottsbluff districts for their support. Peters thanked Martin for her work in bringin g a climate survey to parents, staff and students. The last one done in the district was approximately two to three years ago. This instrument will assist in guaging how the district is doing in their eyes. Brunner expressed his disappointment that Miles did not file for another term on the Board. Brunner encouraged anyone who was interested to serve on the Board of Education.

Discussion:  The rolling calendar was reviewed.