April 15, 2019 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Mr. Shain Shimic offered an informative look into the history of Nebraska's FFA / Ag Program, their current model, and participation rates both regionally as well as nationally.  Next, Robert Rahmig highlighted his experience as an FFA Alum.  Mr. Rahmig now has four children of his own attending Gering Public Schools who would benefit from the program if implemented.  Eric Peterson presented the value of FFA / ag programs from an employer standpoint.  Steve Flower, local farmer, parent and longtime resident of Gering, detailed his involvement with FFA / agriculture from an parent and community member stance.  His two oldest children attended Gering and were able to partake in the program when the district partnered with Scottsbluff.  His two younger students were forced to option to Scottsbluff to continue their involvement.  Both students went on to serve as State officers which he expressed had "opened many doors for them."  Mr. Flower outlined the broad variety of students today's model captures as it provides the opportunity to find their passion.  Following this, Alan Held, Scottsbluff Public Schools FFA / ag teacher, offered to field any questions the board may have related to program curriculum rules and / or available resources to support implementation.  Craig Erdman, also offered a perspective similiar to Mr. Flower's as he spoke about his former role in a local FFA Chapter as well as two of his brothers who had advanced to American FFA degrees.  After attending a state event in Lincoln, he and his wife developed a desire for their daughter to become involved in the program once she meets the age requirement.  David Dietrich, fellow local ag producer, echoed previous testimonies. The board offered commentary on the subject matter in terms of the current career pathways in development indicating that vocational ag will be a component therein.  Curriculum and fundraising will need to put in place first.  
 

Discussion:  Dean of Students, Mario Chavez, presented a plaque to commemorate the honor.  Among other high remarks, Calico was described by her peers as helpful, tech-savvy, organized, and a well-respected role model for students. 

Discussion:  Committee chair Mary Winn recapped career pathway progress, and the corresponding high school staff presentations that had occured earlier in April.  The next presentation will occur at the junior high next week.  

Discussion:  Brady Shaul reported on the high school construction project noting the progression seen from the street alone is less inside the building where many more areas are nearing completion.  

Discussion:  Chairman Josh Lacy provided a report on the football field ADA accessibility and drainage improvements recently opened for bid.  The proposal also includes a defined sideline fan boundary and widening of the playing field in conjunction with soccer regulations.  

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings noted several upcoming end of the year events.  The public is invited to attend the annual Retirement Tea being hosted at the Junior High on Wed, May 8 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.  The graduation ceremony will remain a ticketed invitation.  Mr. Hastings offered a legislative update ahead of final hearings on the horizon.   

 

Discussion: 

Future Board Meetings

Board Work Session - Tues, April 23 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

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

* * * No work session in May * * * 
 

Tentative Committee Meeting Dates:

Policy Review Committee --  Mon, April 22 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Personnel Committee  --  Thurs, April 25 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office)

Curriculum Committee  --  Wed, May 1 @ 7:00 a.m.  (Central Office) 

Facilities Committee  --  Thurs, May 2 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Gering High School)

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


Retirement Tea -- Wednesday, May 8 @ 3:30 p.m. (Gering Junior High)

BOE/GEA Breakfast -- Friday, May 17 @ 7:30 a.m. (Gering Junior High)

Graduation -- Sunday, May 19 @ 2:00 p.m. (WNCC)

Discussion:  Brady Shaul highlighted the atmosphere and positive energy witnessed at a recent high school Bulldog assembly he had attended, adding that it was nice to see students from all avenues being recognized by their peers.  Brian Copsey addressed concerns illustrated in recent media reports regarding ALICE training.  He spoke with GPS school resource officers who assured him that drills being performed within our district do not utilize airsoft guns.  Mr. Copsey spotlighted the girls soccer team as well as several HOSA members qualifying for nationals.  Brian indicated that the career pathways are doing very well before recognizing Mrs. Gable's class for delivering goodie trays to neighbors.  Josh Lacy highlighted his appreciation for the community noting that their continued support makes it possible.  Mary Winn had attended opening night of Mama Mia and thoroughly enjoyed the performance.  She had also noted a news story from Lincoln Elementary regarding their student pep rallies which enthusiastically supported the 4 - 6 grade students during testing.  Brent Holliday attended Northfield Elementary's musical noting that he was very impressed by the student performances and an entertaining storyline.  President Peters closed with positive reflection of the community appearance at tonight's meeting stating that their presence is reassuring. He thanked those in attendance for their time in expressing their care for the GPS school system.