December 16, 2019 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Discussion:  GHS Junior Hunter Allred addressed the Board with a petition to replace longstanding "Bulldog Time" with a study hall in an effort to allow students time to make-up tests and catch up on missing assignments reducing the stress sometimes created by extra curricular activities that overlap the regular school day .  Board Members Winn and Peters inquired about various aspects of the proposal before indicating that they will revisit the matter with Principal Schneider.  They also encouraged her to visit with the Student Leadership Advisory Committee when time permitted.  Brent Holliday thanked Allred for her initiative and the fortitude to drive such efforts.  

Next, area citizen and author Jody Lamp spoke in support of implementing agriculture education.  In 2015, when the Lamp family was relocating to the area they had considered Gering Public Schools, but, due to the lack of an Ag/FFA program, enrolled elsewhere.  As an industry rich in history, and a present economic driver for the region, Lamp felt strongly about the importance of offering curriculum to our youth.  Further stating, "if you have the ability, you have the responsibility."  

Discussion:  In presentation of the honor, Principal Schneider described Ms. Whitfield as purposeful and engaging.  She previously resided in Costa Rica, working as a teacher, before coming to GHS, but noted that of all the countries and states she's lived in, "Gering feels like home."  

Discussion:  Committee Chair Mary Winn offered a quick report on the VALTS Progam as follow-up to the recent quarterly meeting.  Currently students are designing small houses.  A fifth period was added to the day as a opportunity for students to attain extra credit.  The subject studied during that additional time varies.  Students are engaged in English for the current 9-week period, and are studying '7 Habits of Highly Effective Teams.'  Students have been active within the community, and podcasts are in process.  

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings provided an update on the completion of the GHS construction project which is largely complete.  The refinishing of the auxilary gym, and the testing/balancing of climate control systems should be complete by the first of the year.  A punch list will be reviewed Friday with anticipation of signing substantial completion sometime in January/February.  
 

Discussion:  Committee Chair Brent Holliday reported on the annual audit.  

Discussion:  Superintendent Hastings shared content from the staff / student presentation made by KSB School Law the week prior.  Finals week is getting underway, and Friday will be a half day.  

Discussion: 

Future Board Meetings

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

Board Work Session - Tues, Jan 28 @ 12:00 p.m. (Central Office)

 

Tentative Committee Meeting Dates:

Curriculum Committee  --  Thurs, Jan 7 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

Facilities Committee  --  Thurs, Jan 9 @ 4:30 p.m.   (Central Office)

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

Policy Review Committee --  Mon, Jan 27 @ 4:30 p.m.  (Central Office) 

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

 

Discussion:  Opening comments from Brady Shaul shared his anticipation in seeing the ag program come to fruition.  Brian Copsey shared this sentiment, elaborating that behind the scenes progress has been happening, but to making it formal is exciting.  He also acknowledged the team of representatives from Gering and Scottsbluff who had recently met with NSAA in Lincoln, and brought forth the opportunity to host State Golf here locally.  Great job on their hard work!  Brent Holliday noted three words used repeatedly throughout tonight's meeting:  Passion, Pursuit, Perseverance.  In a short recap on the film 'Amazing Grace: The William Wilberforce Story,' he compared great leaders throughout history with a quote from Charles Fox "When people speak of great men like napoleon - men of violence.  Rarely do they think of peaceful men.  But contrast the reception they will receive when they return home from their battles.  Napoleon will arrive in pomp and in power, a man who's achieved the very summit of early ambition.  And yet his dreams will be haunted by the oppressions of war.  William Wilberforce, however, will return to his family, lay his head on his pillow and remember: the slave trade is no more."  Brent highlighted perseverance before presenting Superintendent Hastings with a small token of appreciation on behalf of the Board.  While opening, Brent reflected on the GHS project as a worthwhile achievement that also brought with it many battles:  a bond that failed in the first proposal, flooding rains, and later a backflow valve design failure.  He noted that Mr. Hastings is a man of passion and perseverance, and for his commitment to GPS, the Board will vote at the January meeting to dedicate the auxiliary gym in his name.  Mary Winn followed by extending her appreciation to Caitlin Whitfield, and indicating that she hopes Gering continues to feel like home!  In closing, B.J. Peters stated that while he wasn't originally from Gering, the support shown at tonight's meeting is a prime example of why he has stayed.  He loved the passion on display noting "we are all here for the kids" as he thanked attendees.  The meeting was adjourned at 6:53 p.m.