School board OKs salaries, accepts resignations

Tuesday, December 15, 2020

McCOOK, Neb. — The McCook school board reluctantly accepted, with gratitude for service, the resignation of four instructors at Monday night’s regular meeting.

Following an executive session, the board approved an agreement with the McCook Education Association for a base teacher salary of $37,450 for 2021-22, up $1,000 from the previous level.

Salaries then increase based on the number of years teaching and additional college credits and degrees.

The sponsorship of the eSports activity was also set at 2.4% to 4%, depending on experience.

Sharon Conroy of Community Hospital told the board educators would be among the first to receive the new COVID-19 vaccine, which she said will be safe and effective.

The board accepted the resignations of Cindy Wilcox, Brooke Grigg, Hilary Neff and Pat Dorshorst, who came out of retirement to teach and wants to return to substitute teaching.

The board approved changes to the school calendar, which Superintendent Grand Norgaard said would give teachers more planning and preparation time on Jan. 18 and Feb. 15, especially needed in a time of remote learning.

An evaluation of the superintendent was tabled until the January meeting.

Superintendent Grant Norgaard told the board he would like to schedule a board retreat in March, and updated the board on COVID-19, saying 43 teachers and staff were in quarantine and two had active cases, saying students and staff had done a good job in keeping the percentage of infections down.

Finance director John Brazell noted the school was selling two vans and purchasing two, said bonds would be refunded in Dec. 22, which would require an amended budget. He also reported on the audit, which was routine, showing some minor deficiencies which have been rectified as much as possible, including a smaller business staff than recommended.

In positive comments, student representative Alec Langan lauded the administration and staff for hard work and genuine concern during the current trying time, and explained a new app to encourage safe driving.

Dennis Berry recognized the many staff members who contributed to the community with little recognition, specifically Al Cuellar, who grew up with 11 siblings in a boxcar on the south side of McCook, and overcame many obstacles to contribute much to his community, prodding students to do the same.

Teresa Thomas recognized those responsible for providing Bison TV streaming in the face of COVID-19 restrictions, Brad Hays said he was impressed with the Health Careers Class, Loretta Hauxwell recognized Central Principal Joel Bednar for his work in making transitions easier and Mike Langan recognized the staff for the dedication and extra effort during trying times.

Tom Bredvick told of a conversation with a civilian who observed quick and decisive action during a recent security issue at Central Elementary, and Jeff Gross, who recently announced he was stepping drown from football coaching, for his achievements in that position.

Finance director John Brazell, who has resigned his position, recognized Superintendent Grant Norgaard for his dedication and effective leadership, and Norgaard recognized Clint Hosic, who recently returned to the school staff after a military deployment.

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