Early-out incentives still considered

McCOOK, Nebraska -- Although generally in favor of the "early out" incentive program at the junior high school, that allows eligible students not to attend the last two days of the school year, the McCook School Board wants to see data on how that program works before it's implemented.

The school board voted unanimously to strike the paragraph in the McCook Junior/Senior High student handbook that explains the program. Instead, they want Junior High Principal Dennis Berry to present data on how the incentive program benefits students, before it is added to the handbook as policy.

At the regular school board meeting in May, Berry asked the school board to reinstate the early out program at the junior high, where students who had high test scores on achievement tests did not have to attend the last two days of school. The program, discontinued two years ago, was very popular with students and teachers, Berry said.

At Monday's meeting, Bredvick said he asked at the May meeting for data on how the early-out incentive benefitted students. Bredvick said if Berry presents that report at the August meeting, the incentive could be included in the school handbook.

In other action, the board unanimously approved:

* a bingo game donated from the McCook Elk's Club, valued at about $1,000. The game could be used for the family fun night fundraiser at McCook Elementary, said Rick Haney, McCook Schools Business Manager, or at the senior celebration.

* Superintendent Grant Norgaard to sign for federal state grants and funds

* to re-adopt the state-mandated board policy that establishes the Student Fee account. This account is for students who qualify for free or reduced lunches and need assistance for costs associated with certain programs or extra-curricular activities.

The Student Fee Account was budgeted at $50,000 for the 2012-13 school year. No funds were used last year.

Board member Diane Lyons asked if the program, Destination Imagination, was included in the policy and Norgaard said it will be added before the handbook was distributed.

The competitive academic program is offered to students from 3rd to 12th grade, if there is teacher sponsorship. Students compete against other schools with projects and other academic challenges.