July 21, 2014 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  The Curriculum Committee did not meet in July.

Discussion:  Chairperson Upp informed the board that the Facilities Committee met and reviewed a list of recommendations at the High School from Activities Director Kosk. He stated that the committee is receiving similar recommendations from other buildings. Depending on the outcome of recent strategic planning sessions, the committee has determined work on the weight room and locker rooms to be a priority.

Discussion:  Chairperson Copsey said that the Business Committee held a brief meeting where they reviewed bills, financial statements and a master facilities maintenance list. The committee is awaiting input from recent strategic planning sessions before developing a more extensive list of priorities so budgets can be developed to include those goals.

Discussion:  Director of Finance Meisner reviewed each financial report.

Discussion:  Chairperson Winn distributed a summary to the Board prior to the meeting, which recapped the Personnel Committee Meeting held on July 7th. The committee reviewed an Interlocal Agreement with the City of Gering for a School Resource Officer. Superintendent Hastings provided information pertaining to a certified staff handbook as well as a personnel handbook. These handbooks are being developed to provide a more consistent protocols.

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings introduced Barb Ehrhart, the District's new Director of Student Services and Special Education. Ehrhart started with the district on July 1, 2014 and has hit the ground running. She brings many years of experience and knowledge to the position and is providing a fresh perspective in all areas of operations. Ehrhart provided a brief recap of her teacher and psychologist experience and thanked the Board for the opportunity to work for the Gering District. Hastings stated that Ehrhart will have the opportunity to give informational reports to committees as well as the full board. Hastings explained that the district hosted three days of Strategic Planning Sessions beginning July 13th. He explained that it was a journey of discussions about the district and future goals. Team members spent time learning about the current state of affairs and impacts on the district. Participants developed goals and prioritized those goals. Larry Dlugosh led the group in their discussions and helped to coordinate the goals. Hastings plans to finalize the findings of the team over the next week and will present the goals to each committee prior to introducing them to the entire board in August. Hastings said that the process was an exciting, open and positive one and thanked Dlugosh for his efforts. He also commended the entire team, which included three board members, teachers who represented each building, administrators from all levels, parents of children from each building, local business representatives, staff from the City of Gering, WNCC and Twin Cities Development, and six students who provided much needed input and insight. Hastings feels that this group represented the school and community very well and they deserve the district's gratitude for their time and contributions. Copsey explained that he was very tired after the process was completed, however he said it was a great experience and he appreciated the student's participation. Hastings explained that determined goals will be presented to the Board, who can approve them, as for modifications to the or reject them altogether but they cannot change the intent of the goals. Action plans will be developed in September and will also involve teamwork. Dlugosh will return to assist with this portion of process. Hastings reminded all that school will resume in approximately three weeks. He informed the Board that the building principals will return to work on July 28, new teachers come in on August 8, returning staff arrived on August 11 and students start on August 14. He asked that everyone keep individuals recently affected by personal tragedies in their thoughts and prayers.

Discussion:  President Doll opened the hearing at 6:20pm to public comment. There were none. Doll closed the hearing at 6:21pm.

Discussion:  President Doll opened the hearing at 6:22pm for public comment. There were no public comments. Doll closed the hearing at 6:23pm.

Discussion:  Hastings explained that the only change was the addition of the word "therefore".

Discussion:  Hastings explained that there was a typo (should read 2014-2015) in the heading of the Agreement but the City of Gering approved the agreement as such as the type doesn't change the intent of the Agreement. The agreement will be reviewed on an annual basis until it is determined that it can be reviewed every 3 to 5 years. The City has appointed Henry Moreno to be serve as the School Resource Office (SRO). Moreno has been with the Gering Police Department for several years and has an extensive background with children, forensic interviews and investigations.

Discussion:  Hastings invited Band Director Randy Raines to present his band uniform purchase proposal to the Board. Raines explained that he is asking for $10,000 from the district to assist with the purchase of new band uniforms. Other contributors include the Class of 1964 and the Music Boosters, who will continue to fundraise for this project. Raines explained that the total cost of the uniforms will actually be less that the proposed amount since he will not need to purchase uniforms bags or a second set of plumes. The new uniforms are only 2 pieces, compared to the current multi-piece uniforms. Raines displayed a prototype of the uniform for all to see. Hastings expressed appreciation to the City of Gering for their contributions and support of the band program. Copsey added that one of the strategic planning goals was to brand the Gering district and these new uniforms will assist with that goal. Hubbard and Koski assisted with the color decision.

Discussion:  The next Curriculum Committee Meeting has been scheduled for August 7th at 7:00am. The next Personnel Committee Meeting has been scheduled for August 5th at 4:30pm. The July Policy Review Committee Meeting has been cancelled. The next meeting has been scheduled for August 25th at 4:30pm. Mr. Brunner stated that he will be unable to attend the August Board Meeting. Hastings reminded board members who are interested in attending the August 27th NASB 2014 Area Membership Meeting in Gering to contact Frahm for their registration.

Discussion:  Upp - strategic planning idea was unknown, but attending first session. interesting from wide range, all commenting on constructive topics, groups developed individual concepts, anxious to hear final results. very good thing for district. copsey - energized from planning process, intersting to see break out groups topics, even if similar. really great experience and refreshing to interact with other members of community who truly care about GPS. Kids were amazing, presenter commented on what a great group of kids, larry said they were active participants. winn - wonderful to have terri back looking good, barb welcomed, coll - thanks to all who participated in planning sessions, realy encouraging and how involved people want to be in future. testimanet to district overall, great realationship with gering and new sro, excellent for district, remembers peg deines,, who passed away sasturday.