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McCook Schools explore new healthcare career pipeline
McCOOK, Neb. - The McCook Public Schools Board of Education convened for its regular meeting Monday evening at 6 p.m., opening the first session of the new calendar year with the annual election of officers.
The meeting was called to order by Superintendent Grant Norgaard, who began with a motion to elect Brad Hays as the 2026 Board President. The motion passed unanimously, and Hays then assumed leadership of the meeting. Motions were subsequently made to elect Scott Barger as Vice President and Mike Langan as Secretary; each motion passed unanimously.
The board also unanimously approved the annual appointment of Business Manager Jeff Gross as Ex Officio Treasurer and Recording Secretary for the coming year.
Other new‑year housekeeping included committee assignments—which Hays kept the same as last year—and designating the McCook Gazette as the district’s official newspaper for public notices.
Student Board Member Quinn Taylor provided an update on student activities and events, including winter sports currently in full swing and the upcoming Color Day Dance on Saturday, January 24, from 9 p.m. to midnight.
Norgaard offered a presentation highlighting the proposed UNMC–McCook Public Schools Nursing Pathway, outlining opportunities for students to pursue healthcare careers through a formalized partnership.
Recognizing the demand for nursing education and the competitiveness of the field, Norgaard expressed enthusiasm that McCook Schools is well positioned to partner with UNMC to help students enter competitive programs and be further incentivized to return home upon completing their training.
To be admitted into the program, students will need to earn a qualifying GPA and obtain a CNA license.
Explaining the reasoning behind the partnership, Norgaard said, “There is a nursing shortage in the nation, but especially in rural areas. Offering support and assistance, through scholarship and advising, as well as maintaining connection with nursing students, will keep qualified health care professionals in our local rural hospitals and clinics.” One important stipulation is that students complete their studies at the Kearney campus rather than transferring to Omaha. Organizers feel strongly about keeping students close to home while fostering career opportunities in their rural communities.
Students who enter the program but later decide that a Bachelor of Science in Nursing is not for them will still benefit from the partnership, as McCook High School is working more closely with McCook Community College to help students earn dual credit for other classes that support advancement in the medical field.
McCook Public Schools remains committed to strengthening the community by helping students achieve degrees and certifications in high‑demand careers; this partnership is one more way to support that mission. Norgaard expressed clear passion for the future possibilities of collaborating with UNMC and MCC.
The board also discussed legislative proposals that may impact schools this year, including Governor Jim Pillen’s proposal for mandatory third‑grade reading retention. Norgaard explained that, based on an assessment, all third‑grade students would need to demonstrate reading proficiency before advancing to fourth grade. “This is just a proposal; Pillen would have to find a senator to introduce legislation before it would be considered by lawmakers,” he noted. He emphasized that “the state of Nebraska has already recognized low reading scores as an area for intervention and improvement.” Most school districts are already working to address the issue, and any legislative action would be a last resort.
Business Manager Jeff Gross reported December meal counts totaling 11,287 lunches served. Financial updates included year‑to‑date revenues and expenditures across district funds, as well as updates on facilities projects, storm‑damage repairs, and the completion of the district’s final bond payment.
In new business, the board unanimously approved the 2026–2027 negotiated agreement with the McCook Education Association. Board members Scott Barger and Charlie McPherson said negotiations went smoothly, with a few necessary increases in extra‑duty compensation and a base salary increase of $800.
A $137,988 bid from Heartland Seating was accepted to replace the McCook Junior High bleachers in early May. The original bleachers will be dismantled before the floor is refinished in preparation for the new installation in July.
The board also accepted a generous $2,358 donation from CTE Construction for the “Roofing with a Purpose” program, designated for the school lunch program.
During positive board comments, Gross praised the efforts of those who made the MAC Attack Youth Basketball Tournament possible. The competition, held January 3, raises money for local students through scholarships and relies on many dedicated volunteers.
Hays concluded the evening by applauding the outstanding academic performance of McCook students, who “tested well above our peers and the state in every area.”
A reminder that there will be no school on Monday, January 19, as staff will be attending teacher in‑service, beginning with poverty‑awareness professional development and concluding with K–12 Science of Reading training.