Discussion:  Geil Elementary Angela Morris presented a video that provided student examples of things being done at Geil to improve social skills and student well-being.

Discussion:  Gering Junior High Principal presented GJHS physical education teacher, Brenda Pszanka, with the March Staff Member of the Month Award.

Discussion:  Mary Winn - Reported that Terri Martin had demonstrated work of K - 6 students and discussed the changing assessment program in the state.

Discussion:  Brent Holliday - Expenditures and budget were reviewed.  The committee also discussed the construction project and budget.  Members of the board have met with the GPS Foundation to express support and help revitalize the organization.  Three members currently sit on the foundation board.  Each board member has submitted names to be considered for participation to expand the foundation board to 10 - 12 members.

Discussion:  Superintendent Bob Hastings reported that the value engineering process for the GHS project is progressing and nearing completion.  Much work has gone into this process and they are working hard to ensure that the project remains within budget.  He also expressed appreciation for the work that went into the groundbreaking ceremony and noted how well-attended and festive the event was.  Legislatively, there are still several bills that the district and GNSA are monitoring that could impact school funding including several property tax reform bills.

Discussion: 

National Service Recognition Day                                                           PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, service to others is a hallmark of the American character, and central to how we meet our challenges; and

WHEREAS, the nation’s School Districts are increasingly turning to national service and volunteerism as a cost-effective strategy to meet their needs; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps participants address the most pressing challenges facing our communities, from educating students for the jobs of the 21^st century, to fighting the opioid epidemic, to responding to natural disasters, to supporting veterans and military families; and

WHEREAS, national service expands economic opportunity by creating more sustainable, resilient communities and providing education, career skills, and leadership abilities for those who serve; and

WHEREAS, AmeriCorps and Senior Corps participants serve in more than 50,000 locations across the country, bolstering the civic, neighborhood, and faith-based organizations that are so vital to our economic and social well-being; and

WHEREAS, national service participants increase the impact of the organizations they serve, both through their direct service and by managing millions of additional volunteers; and

WHEREAS, national service represents a unique public-private partnership that invests in community solutions and leverages non-federal resources to strengthen community impact and increase the return on taxpayer dollars; and

WHEREAS, national service participants demonstrate commitment, dedication, and patriotism by making an intensive commitment to service, a commitment that remains with them in their future endeavors; and

WHEREAS, the Corporation for National and Community Service shares a priority with local leaders nationwide to engage citizens, improve lives, and strengthen communities; and is joining with the National League of Cities, the National Association of Counties, Cities of Service, and local leaders across the country for National Service Recognition Day on April 3, 2018.

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Gering Public School Board of Education of Gering Nebraska], do hereby proclaim April 3, 2018, as National Service Recognition Day, and encourage residents to recognize the positive impact of national service in our community, to thank those who serve; and to find ways to give back to their communities.

Discussion:  The board unanamously approved a motion by Mr. Holliday and seconded by Mr. Peters to move into executive session to discuss security personnel and devices at 6:44 p.m.
The board unanamously approved a motion by Mr. Peters and seconded by Mrs. Winn to exit executive session at 7:37 p.m.

Discussion:  The board commented on their appreciation for the work that Officer Shawn West and the district staff do related to school safety.  Other items discussed included excitement from the groundbreaking ceremony, appreciation for the GHS Bulldog Assemblies coordinated by Mrs. Knight, and expressed excitement for the performance of the speech team at districts and the DECA members at state.