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Time well served : School Board members say farewell
McCOOK Neb. – The McCook School Board held its final meeting of the year on Dec. 9, marked by a bittersweet farewell to two esteemed members: Teresa Thomas and Tom Bredvick. Both have made significant contributions to the board and the community, with Thomas serving for over 13 years and Bredvick dedicating more than 20 years of service.
As they prepared to step down, emotions ran high. Teresa reflected on her journey as a board member, describing how a poignant experience inspired her initial desire to serve in her son’s first-grade class. “Hearing about a little girl who struggled with stability in her home life made me want to help,” she shared. Her commitment to ensuring every child has a safe and welcoming environment resonated with many attendees. She recalled how McCook Public Schools embraced children like that little girl, reinforcing the importance of community support for students facing challenges.
“I wish nothing but the best for the future,” Teresa added, expressing gratitude to fellow board members, administrators, and staff for their support throughout her tenure. She emphasized the positive impact that McCook schools had on her children, who are both graduates and have gone on to achieve success.
Tom followed with heartfelt words of appreciation for the community, staff, and past board members. “This job is not easy, but it is the most rewarding job I’ve ever done,” he stated. He encouraged attendees to reflect on the teachers who inspired them and acknowledged the countless hours dedicated to improving the educational experience for students.
Tom attended over 240 regular and special school board meetings and numerous committee meetings during his tenure, underscoring his unwavering commitment to the district. He quoted former Massachusetts Secretary of Education Horace Mann, who famously declared that “education is the great equalizer.” Tom believes in this principle and sees it exemplified in the hallways of McCook’s schools today.
As the meeting concluded, the board and administration expressed their gratitude for Teresa and Tom’s years of service, recognizing the lasting legacy they leave behind. Superintendent Grant Norgaard said, “You both have been true leaders and difference-makers.”
Their dedication to the McCook community will undoubtedly influence future generations of students as new board members step into their roles. They were each bestowed a parting gift, a school bell and podium, and lifetime McCook Public School’s event passes.
The board looks forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Thomas and Bredvick and continuing to advocate for the needs and success of all district students. In January 2025, new board members Amanda Buhr and Jesse Juenemann will take their seats.