School accepts more than $5,000 in donations

More than $5,000 worth of donations were accepted by the McCook Board of Education Monday night, prompting several members to comment on the generosity of the community and organizations.

"The donations speak volumes for public participation. Its outstanding we have this much interest," said Board President Larry Shields.

Donations to the McCook Public School system included:

* recognition of Chad Lyons, Teacher of the Year, Walmart Foundation, $1,000

* Walmart Foundation, $2,000, $500 for each school building (McCook Elementary, Central Elementary, Junior High and Senior High)

* Samway Floor Covering, $550 for carpet in press boxes

* McCook Elementary PTO, $400 for table at McCook Elementary

* McCook Elementary PTO, $600 for Accelerated Reading program update at McCook Elementary

* $500 from McDonald's, Stull McCook Inc.. for Senior High McTeacher's Night on Oct. 7

* McCook Education Foundation, $599 for Accelerated Reader on-line testing software at Central

* engines from American Honda Power Equipment of Alpharetta, Ga., for Auto Tech program, $9,600-11,200. The twin engines would be used for projects the kids would build, but the engines cannot be re-sold, clarified Interim Superintendent David Schley.

Board member Diane Lyons remarked that the donations were generous and that it would help to afford "the little extras," while fellow board member Tom Bredvick said he was impressed with the community for supporting the school district.

Other comments and action at Monday night's meeting:

* Schley updated the board about the welding program at the high school, that is taught in conjunction with McCook Community College. MCC is looking at renting a building downtown for equipment, he said, that would be on a temporary basis. The welding program will be dual credit class with MCC. He also commended staff members who are "filling in the gaps" while Central and Junior High Principal Dennis Berry recovers from surgery.

* Diane Lyons told the board that she's met with community members who who are concerned there is no art program at McCook Elementary and Central Elementary and will bring their proposals to the Programs Committee meeting later in October.

* The board unanimously approved Resolution 403B, regarding the tax deferred retirement plan. IRS changes in the tax deferred program of school employees mean more regulation. The school is liable for violations if it is out compliance and a third party company that the school uses for the retirement plan has recommended the resolution

* The McCook Education Board became one of only 14 schools to receive the "Outstanding Board Award" presented by the Nebraska Association of School Boards at their area membership meeting at Kearney in September. This is the first time that the McCook School Board received this award. To qualify, all members of the board must have attained a minimum of a Level 1 award, attended the NASB State Education Conference and participated in at least one local leadership planning retreat.