December 17, 2018 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  As written in his nomination, Custodian Scott Lang was recognized for the "tremendous amount of personal pride" he has shown in caring for Gering Public School facilities through the construction process.  High school students reportedly offered him a standing ovation at a recent assembly.  Board member Mary Winn also highlighted the "essential role" classified staff plays within the school environment.  

Discussion:  Eight students representing Lincoln Elementary, alongside Principal Barker, presented a wide array of information on the programs and events that had occured within their building during first semester.  A student-produced video shone a spotlight on all grade levels with growth-data notebooks, Boys Town social skill assemblies, the leader-in-me program, and booster club sponsored events fostering zoo animal education.

Discussion:  Committee chair Mary Winn reported that science teachers Brett Moser and Jenn Dillinger had attended the November meeting to collaborate on the department curriculum.  Board member Josh Lacy added a report from a recent VALTS meeting with ESU13 representives.  Lacy recognized continued success with eight students planning to graduate from the program at semester, and anticipation for those openings being filled immediately.  

Discussion:  Chairperson BJ Peters offered an update on the high school construction project, and applauded the staff and students on their continued patience as many aspects of the project are now being wrapped up.  

Discussion:  Committee chair Brent Holliday commended the GPS Business Manager, Tim Meisner, on the completion of another successful audit.  No irregularities were reported by Dana Cole, and Brent added that the length of detail in their report portrayed the size of the duties.  Monthly expenditures were reviewed and approved accordingly at the November meeting.  

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings opened with discussion surrounding the addition of a second monthly board meeting beginning in January.  All members agreed this would be beneficial.  An update was offered on the communication stages of the upcoming grade reconfiguration before closing with a few calendar highlights.  

Discussion:  Policy Review Committee --   No Policy Review

Curriculum Committee  --  Thurs, Jan 3 @ 7:00 a.m.  (Central Office) 

Facilities Committee  --  Thurs, Jan 10 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Gering High School) 

Business Committee  --  Mon, Jan 14 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)  

Personnel Committee  --   Thurs, Jan 31 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)

Regular Board Meeting  --  Mon, Jan 21 @ 6:00 p.m.  (City Council Chambers) 

Discussion:  Board member Josh Lacy extended his appreciation to the Lincoln Elementary staff and students for their presentation.  He noted positive, lifelong impacts especially from the leadership development element.  Reflecting on the past month, Mary Winn congratulated the Gering High School mock trial team on their State Runner-Up finish.  Brent Holliday emphasized excitement for the anticipated progress that will occur at the high school over break.  This sentiment was shared by Brady Shaul who recapped some of the noticeable changes presently taking shape on the exterior of the building.  Also along those lines, BJ Peters highlighted the final stretch of construction as we enter into 2019.  In closing, Board President Brian Copsey acknowledged the honors extended to Scott Lang, and the amount of labor often occurring behind-the-scenes with projects like this.  Furthermore, he credited Mr. Lashley for his work and dedication to students over the years as he reflected on the Board's acceptance of his retirement.  

Discussion:  The executive session ended at 6:52 p.m. and the regular meeting was adjourned immediately afterward.