September 15, 2014 at 6:10 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Peters explained that the Curriculum Committee received a detailed briefing from Director of Curriculum Terri Martin on significant changes that Gering is going through by not utilizing the Terra Nova Norm Testing process. Gering has switched over to MAPs testing, which is used by the majority of Nebraska districts. The test covers 3rd to 10th grades and includes a variety of curriculum to measure academic process. This process also provides immediate scores.

Discussion:  Upp said the Facilities Committee reviewed a vehicle replacement plan. They also discussed the donation of a motor coach. Johnson Controls has been working on the thermostats at the High School.

Discussion:  Copsey was absent from the September Business Meeting. Brunner informed the Board that the committee reviewed the bill listing and the financial situation of the district. The group also discussed the budget and levy hearings.

Discussion:  Business Manager Tim Meisner reviewed financial data for the last month of the fiscal year.

Discussion:  Winn stated that the Personnel Committee had brief preliminary discussions on teacher negotiations. They also discussed the hiring of Rex Schultze to act as the district representative. Superintendent Hastings provided an update on staff who were unable to begin the school year due to illness or injury.

Discussion:  Hastings spoke about the Greater Nebraska School's Association and Gering's membership in it. He reviewed the group's purpose, equalization aid and reviewed current members of the group. This association has the potential to influence and promote legislative issues. The group consists of board members, superintendents and school business officials. Hastings urged Gering Board Members, specifically Policy Committee Members, to attend meetings so they can speak with State Senators on pressing issues. The association is looking to hire an Executive Director who can provide a focused direction for the group. Dues to the group are $1,000 per year. Joining this association makes it possible to work with a large number of districts to achieve common goals. Copsey added that he believes membership to this group is extremely important and expressed his appreciation to Gering's commitment and time in attending these meetings. Winn informed the board that this group's November meeting will coincide with the NASB Conference. Hastings informed the Board that the October regular board meeting would conflict with a Nebraska Department of Education meeting that is scheduled from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on that date. The board decided to hold the October Board Meeting at 8:15pm on Monday, October 20, 2014.

Discussion:  The next regular board meeting will take place at 8:15pm on Monday, October 20, 2014. The Personnel Committee will meet on Wednesday, October 1st at 4:30pm. The Facilities Committee will meet on Thursday, October 2nd at 4:30pm. The next Policy Review Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 22, 2014 at 4:30pm. Winn recommended appointing another board member to this committee since Brunner will be leaving the Board soon. President Doll urged committee members to find an alternate if they are unable to attend a meeting.

Discussion:  Upp said he helped the Booster Club at the football game. He said they had a good turnout for a chilly evening. Brunner welcomed all back for a new school year. He said the level of excitement is heightened this year. He also urged the public to make an informed decision when they go to vote in November. Winn informed the board that the VALTS Program held a meeting last week. The program is off to a great start. Two new teachers were introduced and a careers presentation was made by one teacher. The program being used is "Careers 101" and the Gering High School offers some of those classes to resource students already. Winn recommended that the GPS Board invite them for a similar presentation. Peters stated that VALTS Director Schlothauer saved nearly $30,000 by coming in under budget. The savings will be passed along to participating districts.