Time to step up

Help Wanted: A dependable, energetic team player with vision and leadership abilities to advise in a management capacity. Must have good analytical skills, be able to communicate effectively with the public, and show sound judgment and an even temper. Responsibilities include being a fiscal watchdog for the stockholders, setting goals and policies, approving contracts and budgets, and hiring and evaluating the CEO. Must be at least 18 years of age and a registered voter. Successful applicant will serve through December 2012, at which time he or she may continue to serve at the request of the stockholders. Must be willing to work for free, although the organization will provide extensive training and professional development. Interested parties should send letter of application to Mr. Grant Norgaard, Superintendent, McCook Public Schools, 600 West 7th, McCook, NE 69001 or email gnorgaar@esu15.org before 4 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 1. Interviews will be conducted by a five-member committee on Aug. 8.

Of course, the above "help-wanted" item refers to the opening on the McCook Public School Board of Education. With the resignation of board member Maury Green, the school district once again finds itself in the position of replacing a board member, not with a vote of the citizens, but by a vote of the remaining board. While we would prefer the first method of seating a representative, we trust that the remaining board will fill the seat with the best interest of the students' in mind.

But they can only fill that seat with someone who is willing to step forward and apply. Applicants need to be willing to commit the time and energy required, not only for monthly meetings, but also for preparation, committee meetings, and board development programs.

According to Superintendent Grant Norgaard, "We need someone who is willing to make decisions, not based on coffee shop talk or emotion, but on what's best for the students." They are looking for someone who is willing to negotiate and compromise, and who has a vision for the school and the community for the long term, "not just around the corner;" someone who is a "reflective, mature thinker and does not make decisions reactively." Norgaard pointed out that he feels that the current board members possess those traits, and he hopes that someone will come forward that can work collaboratively with them.

The current board consists of Tom Bredvick, President; Larry Shields, Vice President; Diane Lyons, Secretary; and Shane Messersmith and Sandy Krysl. Tom and Diane's terms will expire at the end of 2012, along with the newly-selected board member. Larry and Shane began serving in 2007, and were re-elected to serve another four-year term beginning in 2011. Sandy Krysl began her first term on the board in 2011.

Tom Bredvick is passionate about education and the opportunities it can provide. Serving on the school board gave him the opportunity to give back to a system that made a huge impact in his life. "As board members, we see results every May when students walk across that stage and receive their diplomas," said Bredvick. "Last year, I handed a diploma to a young man I coached on Felling Field, and it meant more to me than anything."

According to two-term board member Diane Lyons, "Being on the school board is a great way to learn about the school system and how it operates. You get to see behind the scenes and you develop a great appreciation of how hard the staff and administration work." Lyons said that the main reason she ran for office was because she wanted to make sure she was doing everything possible to ensure that her children got a good education. She hopes that the new board member will be someone who is dependable and willing to do the research required to make good decisions. "I'm looking for someone who is willing to express their opinions, but also willing to listen to the other board members and the public."

Do you know someone who you think could fill the bill? We hope that you will take the time to encourage them to apply. Do you have a true love for this community and the youth who are our future, as well as an open mind and a willingness to serve? Do you have a unique set of skills and management abilities that will help McCook Public School achieve its mission to equip all students to succeed in a complex global society? Then we encourage you to give the possibility of becoming a school board member some serious and thoughtful consideration. The pay stinks, but the rewards, for both the applicant and the community, are priceless.