October 21, 2019 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Principal Rocky Schneider provided a building report with the support of GHS students Morgan VanAnne, Zoee Smith, Kyla Knight, and Kayle Morris who shared experiences gained through their involvement in the Student Led Advisory Committee.  

Discussion:  Due to special circumstances, the Curriculum Committee was working to reschedule their monthly meeting for a future date.  

Discussion:  Committee member Mary Winn offered a current snapshot of the progress at Gering High School as the construction project nears completion of the final phase.  In further discussion, the board inquired about the length of the warranty that will not begin until all punch list items are complete.  Per Superintendent Hastings, the vast majority of items will be covered for 1 year while a few others extend beyond that timeline.  Board member B.J. Peters noted that the track resurfacing / repairs approved at the September meeting were finished.  

Discussion:  Business committee chair Josh Lacy highlighted some possible part time staffing needs.  In the committee's review of a year-over-year analysis, they had identified some increased electrical expenses that they are working to reduce through increased efficiencies within existing systems.  

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings noted a partnership with ESU that will bring guest speaker Kristin Anderson to the district later this month.  He went on to discuss the exploration stage of expanding current partnerships with WNCC to offer more dual credit opportunities for students, and additional support within career pathways as well as the potential for internships.  Board member Brent Holliday asserted that his business is currently utilizing an SHS intern in their marketing department.  Furthermore, he stated "It has been good for our business; It really does connect the community to the business."  Mr. Hastings agreed responding that kids are hungry for those opportunities, but they want to ensure that they are getting the right kids in the right places developing the right skills as the district works to define what the expectation for the program would look like on both sides.  In closing, Superintendent Hastings extended his gratitude to the Samsung team and David Steele for what their visit did for our students and the community.  Their gracious gift of $10K will be designated by a group within the month ahead.  Hastings is anxious to see the final production of Samsung's video highlighting their visit.  

Discussion: 

Future Board Meetings

Second Monthly Meeting - Tues, Oct 29 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

Regular Board Meeting - Mon, Nov 18 @ 6:00 p.m. (City Council Chambers)

 

Tentative Committee Meeting Dates:

Business Committee  --  Mon, Nov 11 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Personnel Committee  --  

Policy Review Committee --  Mon, Oct 28 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Curriculum Committee  --  Tues, Nov 5 @ 7:00 a.m.  (Central Office) 

Facilities Committee  --  Thurs, Nov 7 @ 4:30 p.m.    
 

Other Notable Dates:

End of 1st Quarter --  Thurs, Oct 17 

Parent Teacher Conferences - Mon, Oct 21 - 24 

No School:  Students & Staff - Fri, Oct 25

Gering Merchants Trick-Or-Treating Downtown & Civic Center - Thurs, Oct 31  (3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.) 

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Veteran's Day Assembly at Gering Junior High - Mon, Nov 11  (Gym, 8:15 a.m.) 

State Education Conference - Wed, Nov 20 - Fri, Nov 22

Discussion:  Brady Shaul extended a warm 'thank you' to Principal Schneider for his presentation as he also spotlighted the students who volunteered to assist.  He mentioned that the skills developed though participating in the Student Lead Advisory Committee will be utilized throughout adulthood.  Brent Holliday recapped his classroom visits earlier in the day stating "You often hear that the younger generation doesn't get it, but after spending time in the school you would be proud!"  The student's asked lots of insightful questions that surprised him.  Before leaving he asked them why they were taking Broc Brown's class, and in addition to enjoying the content many student's cited their involvement in DECA - a separate club.  Mr. Holliday noted that he is pleased that the district is pursuing ag education as he anticipates that it will draw in additional extra curricular opportunities for students.  Mary Winn highlighted her recent time within the schools last Thursday as she helped present the monthly employee recognition award to Tiffany McMurtry at Northfield Elementary followed by a facilities committee meeting / tour at the high school that finished with the shop sawmill demonstration.  She added that the two young individuals who offered the demo were true educators; the presentation was wonderful!  Mrs. Winn noted that the experience is really cross curricular as the kids receive science and math instruction.  Industrial Arts Instructor Steve Land mentioned an important financial piece during the demo as he spotlighted a fallen hackberry tree nearby would generate $300 worth of lumber.  Winn also congratulated sports and band members on their recent accomplishments.  In the past week senior Hunter Walker had medal at State Tennis, Girls Golf placed runner-up at state competition, Cross Country qualified both girls and boys teams for state, and GHS band had received the Class Act award at Old West Music.  She stated for those not familiar that the inspection proceeds the parade marching, and it is quite exemplary.  Josh Lacy reinforced previous commentary.  B.J. Peters cited concerns that Friday's senior recognition during halftime had been cut short which he attributed to the value of extra curricular activities and increased involvement.  As a board, they recognize student achievements, and will continue to do so.  The meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m.