August 17, 2020 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Foundation board members George Holthus, Chris Smith and Cristina Karpf recapped successes within 2019-20.  A few of the highlights included increased community engagement through event presence and several facility updates, such as new auditorium seating and the athletic training facility, which were made possible through their major gifts campaign.  Additionally, they were able to offer innovation grants to staff for student programs.  Chief Holthus noted during a recent administrative search the City of Gering showcased our schools as a future investment in our community.  He thanked the school board for their support in championing these things.  The foundation has selected a student ambassador to offer wider representation this fall.  Also, Pony Express gas station has agreed to continue their support of Gering Public Schools Foundation by donating a portion of fuel sales back to the schools the first Wednesday of the every month.  Mary Winn stated the hiring of Jennifer Sibal has made a world of difference in the district and in partnership with the foundation.  She was often asked "Do we have a foundation? Who is it?  What are they doing?"  Mary recognized that Chris Smith had been a faithful member for many years, but was only one of three.  Support has grown significantly over the past two years with the added fulltime leadership offered by Sibal which Brent Holliday added has included a "nice cross section of the community."  B.J. Peters commended the group on their "centralized efforts" as he expressed there only being brighter days ahead with their momentum. Peters and Holliday assured the foundation that the board will offer their continued support despite leadership changes ahead.  

Discussion:  The committee met on July 30, and were briefed on the new teacher mentor/mentee program, scheduled orientation activities, and the breakdown of PLC's.  

Discussion:  A community group has organized an effort to repair/replace the tennis courts at GHS.  The board noted that our own foundation should be included in those pursuits as our track facilities will also be in need of some improvements.  Maintenance director Curt Hanson reportedly updated the committee on grounds.  

Discussion:  The committee reviewed accounts payable as well as a request for the purchase of a Kabota utility vehicle for year-round use.  

Discussion:  Interim Superintendent Gary Cooper shared student enrollment numbers noting, despite the pandemic, the district has experienced an increase of three students in a year-over-year analysis.  Students have reportedly been responding well to wearing masks.  Cooper indicated that the number of families opting not to wear masks is quite small, and in some cases those who elected their option retracted it after that first day of school, or are having their student's wear masks to school anyway.  Next, Cooper outlined plans to de-densify activity buses by allowing students to ride with their parents both to and from competitions if desired.  Business Manager Tim Meisner highlighted an insurance renewal with Allicap.  Although premiums increased, the district had filed a few claims related to the construction at GHS all of which were handled well by the carrier.  In response to anticipated substitute staffing shortages due to the pandemic, the district has hired COVID Response Subs for each building to ensure availability when needed.  GPS is being considered again as the host for district speech next spring.  

Discussion: 

Future Board Meetings

Second Board Meeting - Tues, Aug 25 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

Regular Board Meeting - Mon, Sept 14 @ 6:00 p.m. (City Council Chambers) 
* * * NOTE DATE CHANGE DUE TO BUDGET HEARINGS * * * 

Second Board Meeting - Tues, Sept 22 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

 

Tentative Committee Meeting Dates:

Curriculum, Policy & Personnel Committee --  Tues, Sept 1 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Facilities & Business Committee  --  Thurs, Sept 3 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)
 

Discussion:  Brent Holliday thanked Superintendent Cooper for being present in the buildings this school year, and for his overall thoroughness. Holliday added "It tells our staff we care. I applaud you for your efforts during these times."  Cooper assured the board that his heart is in it, and echoed appreciation for the opportunity to come in before July 1.  Brady Shaul thanked the foundation for their commitment to Gering Public Schools.  Mary Winn reflected on the July community forum stating "The amount of information and quality of presentation was phenomenal.  For a speech person, I loved that it was polished!  It is exciting to see what has been accomplished."  In closing, Board President B.J. Peters said there is a lot to be proud of.  We don't always know what tomorrow may bring, but we have a great staff that is committed to making sure our students are taken care of.  No one can be sure of what is right or wrong - we need to consult the experts and stay the course.  Peters cited the 3-W's:  "Wash your hands. Wear your mask. Watch your distancing."  Lastly, he noted that the superintendent search will begin in September with the intention to select a candidate by January.  The meeting was adjourned at 7:16 p.m.