School board approves salary package increase, hiring bonus

McCOOK Neb. — Meeting Monday night, the McCook School Board approved new contracts with teachers reflecting a 3.43% total package increase, as well as a new hire bonus of up to $6,000 hoping to attract new talent to the area.

The board confirmed the current officers for the upcoming term: Brad Hays will continue to serve as president, Teresa Thomas as vice president, Mike Langan as secretary, and Jeff Gross as treasurer and recording secretary. The committee members will also remain the same.

Superintendent, Grant Norgaard, during his update, informed the board about the progress of material adoption in English and language arts, as well as science. He mentioned that Principal Joel Bednar is actively involved in assisting teachers in choosing the appropriate materials for their respective subjects.

Norgaard also highlighted the recent training sessions conducted for teachers on effectively incorporating AI into their classrooms. The training aimed to educate educators on utilizing AI’s strengths while preventing its overuse. Norgaard emphasized the importance of being mindful of both the positive and negative aspects of AI to enhance student learning. He said “ We need to become more aware of AI and how to use its strengths to help students in school and also to eliminate or at least reduce the negative aspects it brings to the table. “

During the business manager’s report, Jeff Gross expressed his gratitude to Opaa and the food service staff for organizing the “12 Days of Cookies” event before the holidays in December. He also provided updates on the ongoing construction projects, stating that the track and restroom projects have been completed. As for the high school restroom remodels, one is nearly finished while the other has been gutted and is ready for reconstruction.

Gross further shared that the funds for replacing the high school gymnasium have been secured, with work scheduled to begin in March to ensure completion in time for the new school year. A significant portion of the project costs will be covered by insurance, specifically $280,000 for replacing the entire floor structure. However, any necessary replacements for the sleeper floor underneath will be the responsibility of the school.

Given the recent freezing temperatures, the maintenance staff has been working tirelessly to maintain the high school’s heating system and clear snow, ensuring a conducive learning environment. Principal Craig Dickes even dedicated his time during a late-night shift, conducting inspections at 2 am to ensure the heating system’s functionality.

Teresa Thomas provided an update on the negotiations committee’s preliminary agreement with the teachers, which was met with unanimous approval from the board. The agreed-upon base salary for teachers will be $40,100, reflecting a 3.43% total package increase. Additionally, new teachers will be eligible for a signing bonus of up to $6,000, distributed over three years. The objective behind this revised pay structure is to remain competitive in attracting talented educators to the area.

The board acknowledged the resignation of Kathy White, a highly regarded Behavior Special Education teacher. Norgaard expressed appreciation for White’s remarkable contributions to the school community, emphasizing that she will be greatly missed. “We’re gonna miss her She’s done an amazing job,” said Norgaard

The public meeting adjourned following positive comments; Tom Bredvick thanked the maintenance staff for all of their efforts in keeping the grounds cleared of snow and ice and the buildings warm. Charlie McPherson shared his appreciation for the communication efforts of the schools through text messages, emails, calls, and Sports You notifications. Thomas thanked the building representatives on the teacher’s side of the negotiations.

The board went into executive session for the performance review of the Superintendent.