February 16, 2015 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  Teacher Crystal Palser and Jr. High students presented information on about various programs, activities and clubs offered at the Jr. High School. Programs reviewed included Clowns, Student Council, the Builder's Club, the Quiz Bowl, and Mathcounts. Each attending student spoke in regards to their experiences and opportunities from participation in these activities. The group showed a video that showed highlights of classroom activities this year.

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings provided an update on the new elementary language arts program. He met with K-6 staff last week to discuss the newly implemented curriculum and student performance on standardized tests. The district applied for and received a Reading First grant, however, because assessment systems have changed during the last 10 years Hastings feels that it is time to examine current programs and strategies, as these new measures of testing have pointed out areas where improvements can be made. Implementation of the new curriculum began last year in grades 3-12 and program adjustments were made in grades 3-5 and 6-12. Hastings has been please with the new direction and will now fully transition grades 5-8 to Wonders for the 15-16 school year. The training process will occur in late April. Materials will be provided early so staff can become familiar with it prior to additional training that will take place in the summer, fall and next spring.

Discussion:  Peters stated that the Curriculum Committee is pleased with the excitement shown by students about the new Wonders program. The committee would ultimately like to see a K-12 continuom grading structure and feels that this is a step in that direction. High School Principal Eldon Hubbard presented information to the committee about moving forward with the career academy structure. Current vocational, business, health sciences and marketing programs can be transformed into the career academy. Discussions between GPS and the local community college are taking place. The academy will serve students who do not intend to move on to college after High School.

Discussion:  Upp stated that the Facilities Committee did not meet in February, but have a meeting scheduled on March 10, 2015.

Discussion:  Shaul stated that the Business Committee reviewed the bill listing and copier bids. Principal Hubbard spoke to the committee about the impact of a career academy and potential financial needs associated with the project.

Discussion:  Hastings reviewed the action polan and learning options and flexible action plan. Hubbard prioritized what needs are and what actions to be taken. focus on career academy on classes alra4edy offered in district. have a long list of things to loook at and develop over the next few years. planning helps when hiring future staff, etc. working w/college, they are excited to extend relationship. soon advisory group formed to see what is needed (what type of jobs,needs, etc) hope you have academies in place next year. Peters LB343 has focus on career academies and funding attached to it. desinged to help schools with start up costs, etc. still in education committee, encouraged to keep an eye on as we move forward.

Discussion:  Win very please that it is for 2 years.

Discussion:  Meisner sent out RFP in January, had 5 companies respond. Reviewed bids including lowest. 48 month least on equipment. savings to distridct $1500 a month compared to current costs. Winn concerned that they are in Cheyenne. Service provided within 4 hours of request (same as local companies). Staff will be training on new machines. Hastings said each bldg will have multiple copy machines and materials are included in bid. Installed by 4/1/15.

Discussion:  The Facilities Committee will meet on 3/10/15 at 4:30pm at the Central Office. The Curriculum Committee will meet on 3/10/15 at 7:00am at the Central Office. The Personnel Committee meeting date will be determined but will more than likely either be 3/4/15 or 3/11/15. President Doll encouraged anyone who is unable to attend their committee meeting to find a sub to attend in their place.

Discussion:  Peters said that it is great having students make presentations at the board meetings and would like to see more of that. Upp reiterated Peter's thoughts and said it shows what kind of staff GPS has when students are able to compete at the national level. He likes that they have the opportunities to do so. Winn also echoed the above sentiments and asked how the Follet High School Challenge went and was told that GHS made it to 8th place. Doll expressed a debt of gratitude to those teachers who will retire at the end of the school year. He expressed his appreciation of their time and efforts over the years.