May 18, 2020 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings outlined graduation options based on the current Directive Health Measures.  He stated that he was open to suggestions from the public as long it is approved by public health officials.  Senior parent Zac Karpf was the first to share his thoughts on the matter.  The elementary parade he had attended have an emotional component that brings closure to families.  He realized graduation will not look the same this year, but wanted to avoid delaying the ceremony.  The group of parents he represented were hopeful that a drive-up option would be possible as opposed to drive-thru.  They encouraged a decision to be made, and a plan implemented before July.  A strong sense of volunteerism was expressed.  Board President B.J. Peters appreciated the enthusiasm and passion to preserve the experience for the seniors.  Next, Crystal Smith seconded Zac's statements regarding holding a ceremony in June adding that her daughter will be reporting to college this fall to play a sport which a July celebration may encroach upon.  Mike Moravec spoke on behalf of the booster club indicating that many of its members would be willing to volunteer and were in favor of the proposed June ceremony.  Michelle Maschmeier was also in favor of almost anything, but preferred to see that the class participated as a whole.  With the drive-thru option, she was concerned that it may be difficult for classmates or families to see others graduate.  Chris Culek thanked the board for their time before calling attention to youth baseball being allowed to continue with the six-foot distancing.  He felt that young adults heading off to college should be able to follow guidelines that would allow for students to at least walk across the stage and hear their name called at the proposed drive-up option.  Hastings again referred back to the DHM.  B.J. Peters noted that likely the most frustrating part of the past couple of month has been the uncertainty with guidelines continually evolving.  Barring a rainstorm, Hastings stated that they would use the June date to shape a plan after receiving updated DHM guidance later this week.  Brent Holliday commended the district on their recognition of military graduates at last week's ceremony.  

Discussion:  After reading nominations and other recognitions, Brian Copsey reflected on his experience of having Randy Plummer as a teacher before his children also had him.  

Discussion:  Chair Mary Winn indicated that the committee met on May 5.  After review with principals, they were able to finalize student handbook revisions for the upcoming 2020-21 school year.  

Discussion:  No facilities committee meeting in May due to COVID-19.  The committee is hopeful that they can do a facility walk-thru with the interim superintendent in June before Hastings departure.  

Discussion:  Chair Josh Lacy stated that the committee had focused their review on services that were being paid for during COVID, but not being utilized.  Business Manager Tim Meisner and Superintendent Hastings indicated they are contractual.  With the CARES Act the district will qualify some reimbursement on these expenses.  Taher was awarded the 5-year contract for food services.  Two other companies had submitted bids.  Chartwells out of the front range was a close second.  

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings noted that the district will qualify for CARES Act funding based on Title I allocation and is estimated at $325K.  We will have to continue paying contractual services to be eligible.  Next, the legislature will reconvene.  He is unsure of how long they will be able to meet.  Student check-outs are underway, and will wrap up Wednesday.  These are going well although it was not a simple process this year.  Kudos to staff!  

Discussion:  Laura Barrett reported that a full day, five day preschool program will be implemented in the Lincoln Elementary classroom previously occupied by Headstart.  Kelsey Wahlgren is joining our team as a preschool teacher this fall, replacing Judy Land.  She will lead the charge in that classroom.  The district will partner with Headstart to offer 18 spots.  Priority for enrollment will be special needs students, and because of the Headstart funding there will be specific requirements and reporting; ESU will provide support with collaboration agreement.  

Discussion:  Laura Barrett noted that the district had advertised for Speech Language Pathologist without any luck.  Our current tele-therapy contract will need to increase due to the number of students in our caseload.  The incoming Student Services Director, Byron Olsen, lent his experience to the challenge, and a different company will be utilized next year.  It is a total package that is a better fit for our district, and comes with some cost savings as well.  Byron had good luck using their services at Alliance, and several of Laura's other colleagues have been happy with the company.  President B.J. Peters noted that the shortage exists statewide, not just panhandle.  

Discussion:  Hastings - Clarification.  Affidavit stating that we closed schools in March for pandemic.  Will be a portion of our end of the year.  Rule 10 waiver.  

Discussion:  Action would extend the initial resolution to Friday, May 29, 2020 for staff that would remain on call.  Plan is to reopen June 1, 2020.  

Discussion: 

Future Board Meetings

Personnel Hearing - Thurs, May 28 @ 9:00 a.m. (GHS)

Regular Board Meeting - Mon, June 15 @ 6:00 p.m. (City Council Chambers)
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Regular Board Meeting - Mon, July 20 @ 6:00 p.m. (City Council Chambers)

Special Board Meeting - Tues, July 28 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

 

Tentative Committee Meeting Dates:

Facilities Committee -- TBD

Curriculum Committee -- TBD

Business Committee  --  Mon, June 8 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)  
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Facilities Committee  --  Thurs, July 2 @ 4:30 p.m. 

Business Committee  --  Mon, July 13 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)  
 
 

Discussion:  Mary Winn stated she was impressed with military graduation ceremony on Friday.  Principal Schneider and Mario Chavez did a great job!  It was appropriate to award the honorary diploma to our veteran at that ceremony.  She expressed sadness that the students were not getting what they should be receiving, but offered kudos to everyone who helped make sure they received recognition.  Brady Shaul did not have any comments.  Josh Lacy thanked the group of parents who were at tonight's meeting to advocate for their student and support the district during these unusual circumstances.  Brent Holliday spoke about the legacy Randy Plummer was leaving behind as he expressed his gratitute for his many years of dedication as a teacher and coach at Gering Public Schools.  Brian Copsey echoed sentiments, and is anxious to see graduation plans come together.  B.J. Peters adjourned the meeting at 7:45 p.m.