New salaries for teachers up for approval Monday

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook Board of Education will be asked to approve a new contract and salaries for teachers for the 2023-24 school year, at the regular meeting Monday, 6:30 p.m. at the junior high conference room.

It will also hear an update from the superintendent on the proposed future renovation at McCook Junior High.

The board will be asked to ratify the negotiated agreement with the McCook Education Association for the 2023-2024 school year, which includes the new base salary of $39,300 for teachers. This is a $750 increase from last year’s amount at $38,550. The McCook School system uses a step system in determining salaries, starting at a base salary for a teacher with no experience or additional education beyond a four-year year teaching degree and endorsement. Salaries then increase based on years of experience and if teachers obtain a master’s degree and additional education.

The board will also hear a report from Superintendent Grant Norgaard concerning the major renovation proposed at McCook Junior High. The school district is working with W Design for design proposals and in the near future, will present preliminary designs to board committees and staff for feedback. Community input sessions will be scheduled so the community can review the design and provide feedback.

Although no cost estimates have been given yet, the project will require a bond that must be approved by voters.

In addition to approving the negotiated agreement, the board will also be asked to approve from the regular agenda:

— To grant authority to the superintendent and the business manager to be general managers for the construction of a new restroom, concessions and storage building between the high school tennis courts and track; and to allow the use of Special Building Fund dollars for construction costs, not to exceed $450,000. If any additional funds are necessary for the construction of the building, the Board of Education will have to meet and vote to approve any expense over the initial $450,000.

— Approve the Financial Report (Audited) from KSO CPAs + Advisors

 Other items scheduled Monday night are:

— Recognition of departing board members

— Report from the superintendent on the recent Nebraska Department of Education testing results

— a presentation from Circle of Friends

A closed, executive session is planned after the regular meeting if the board chooses to discuss the terms of the negotiated agreement. The board’s negotiation committee, which includes three board members and administration members, has been meeting regularly to work out the terms of the agreement for next year.