With the number of activities in the spring, it is important to remind everyone of the importance of protecting the school academic learning time. For example, as I began planning for chemistry class for the week of April 19, I discovered that some students will be gone from my class every day that week for a school activity except Wednesday. And I have to be in Kearney for a meeting that day. That is the situation for all 7th and 8th period classes that week.
We try to schedule track and baseball activities so that students miss as little time from school as possible. That means Saturdays are the preferred day for scheduling. Students are in school for 180 days. Each day has 8 periods. Each period lasts 50 minutes. That equates to 9000 minutes of scheduled instructional time for each high school class period. Now start subtracting time lost due to early dismissals, late starts, required state testing, assemblies, etc. and I find that there is barely enough time to adequately prepare students in Chemistry.
What needs to be done to protect academic learning time?
Administrators- Schedule as few interruptions to the school day as possible. Interruptions result in teachers not teaching and students not learning. Interruptions are popular with students but it has a negative impact on student achievement.
Teachers- Make use of the instructional time that you have. Even if some of the students are gone for activities, the students you have need to be involved in some type of learning activity. Before requesting that students miss someone else’s class, ask yourself, “ Is my activity as valuable to the students as the class they are missing?” This is the question I had to answer when making decisions about John Baylor Test Prep or the Entrepreneurship workshop.
Coaches- Understand that extra-curricular activities are EXTRA. They support of the goals of the school, but are not THE goal. When activities intrude into the school day, they negatively impact student learning.
Parents- Make sure your students are in school as much as possible and support the school efforts to maximize instructional time. If they are not here, we cannot teach them. Don’t ask for students to be gone from school unless it is absolutely necessary.
Students- Make use of your time in school. Arrive to class on time ready to learn.
Let’s say, “We are all about academics at Bancroft-Rosalie.”
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Teacher pay bill gets first round approval in Lincoln
There is a push across the country to have performance based pay for teachers. I am not aware of any school in Nebraska doing this right now. The difficulty is comparing the performance of a physical education or art teacher to that of a math or english teacher. Schools can use student performance measures on state or local assessments (my preference would be for measuring student growth during the year) to determine the success of a teacher in academic based areas, but there are no such measures for the fine arts or vocational areas.
The Nebraska Association of School Administrators released the following information this morning:
TEACHER PAY: Working a late session night, the Legislature gave
first-round approval to LB 1014, Senator Haar’s priority bill, on a 35-2
vote.
LB 1014 establishes the Teacher Performance Pay Fund to consist of rental
income from solar and wind leases on school lands. As amended, the fund
would be capped at $10 million for purposes of providing performance pay.
Funds would not become available for such purpose until the 2016-17 school
fiscal year. Funds would be distributed to districts on a pro rata share
beginning in 2016 if, and only if, a specific condition is met.
In an important compromise amendment, offered tonight by Senator Deb
Fischer, the funds would not be distributed in 2016 UNLESS at least 75% of
all school districts have included a system for teacher performance pay
within their respective local collective-bargaining agreements BY January
1, 2014.
The Commissioner of Education is to collect data from each district to
determine whether at least 75% of all districts have included a system for
teacher performance pay within their respective local
collective-bargaining agreements. If the required percentage has not been
met, the commissioner would notify the State Treasurer and the fund
distribution would not commence in 2016.
LB 1014 defines “teacher performance pay” as a systematic process for
measuring teachers’ performance and linking the measurements to changes in
teacher pay. Indicators of teacher performance may include, but limited
to, improving professional skills and knowledge, classroom performance or
instructional behavior, and instructional outcomes. Teacher performance
pay may include predetermined bonus amounts and payout criteria. The
funds are to be used as a supplement to the salary schedule provided in
local collective-bargaining agreements.
The bill includes what might be considered intent language that teacher
performance pay measurements, criteria, and payout amounts are MANDATORY
topics of collective bargaining. If a district has not included a system
for teacher performance pay within its local collective-bargaining
agreement, the amount of supplemental funds otherwise to be allocated to
the district would be returned to the State Treasurer within one month of
receipt of the funds.
LB 1014 amends the school finance formula (TEEOSA) to permit a district to
exceed its general fund budget of expenditures (spending lid) in school
fiscal years 2016-17 and 2017-18 for amounts received for teacher
performance pay. This, of course, is assuming that funds would commence
to be distributed in 2016 as specified by the condition in the Fischer
amendment.
The Nebraska Association of School Administrators released the following information this morning:
TEACHER PAY: Working a late session night, the Legislature gave
first-round approval to LB 1014, Senator Haar’s priority bill, on a 35-2
vote.
LB 1014 establishes the Teacher Performance Pay Fund to consist of rental
income from solar and wind leases on school lands. As amended, the fund
would be capped at $10 million for purposes of providing performance pay.
Funds would not become available for such purpose until the 2016-17 school
fiscal year. Funds would be distributed to districts on a pro rata share
beginning in 2016 if, and only if, a specific condition is met.
In an important compromise amendment, offered tonight by Senator Deb
Fischer, the funds would not be distributed in 2016 UNLESS at least 75% of
all school districts have included a system for teacher performance pay
within their respective local collective-bargaining agreements BY January
1, 2014.
The Commissioner of Education is to collect data from each district to
determine whether at least 75% of all districts have included a system for
teacher performance pay within their respective local
collective-bargaining agreements. If the required percentage has not been
met, the commissioner would notify the State Treasurer and the fund
distribution would not commence in 2016.
LB 1014 defines “teacher performance pay” as a systematic process for
measuring teachers’ performance and linking the measurements to changes in
teacher pay. Indicators of teacher performance may include, but limited
to, improving professional skills and knowledge, classroom performance or
instructional behavior, and instructional outcomes. Teacher performance
pay may include predetermined bonus amounts and payout criteria. The
funds are to be used as a supplement to the salary schedule provided in
local collective-bargaining agreements.
The bill includes what might be considered intent language that teacher
performance pay measurements, criteria, and payout amounts are MANDATORY
topics of collective bargaining. If a district has not included a system
for teacher performance pay within its local collective-bargaining
agreement, the amount of supplemental funds otherwise to be allocated to
the district would be returned to the State Treasurer within one month of
receipt of the funds.
LB 1014 amends the school finance formula (TEEOSA) to permit a district to
exceed its general fund budget of expenditures (spending lid) in school
fiscal years 2016-17 and 2017-18 for amounts received for teacher
performance pay. This, of course, is assuming that funds would commence
to be distributed in 2016 as specified by the condition in the Fischer
amendment.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Agenda for April 5 Bancroft Betterment meeting
I am hoping to have a representative from each group at the meeting to give a monthly report.
Bancroft Betterment Monthly Meeting Agenda
April 5, 2010
5:00 pm at the Country Pub
Call to order.
Read and approve minutes of March 1, 2010 meeting.
Reports
1. School
2. Village
3. Betterment Corporation
4. Cuming County Economic Development
5. Q125
6. Neihardt Center
New Business
1. Community Garage Sale
2. Benefit for Trenton Schmeckpeper
3. Community Theatre
4.
5.
6.
Old Business
1. Community workshops- May 10, 5:00- 7:00 pm, Basics of visioning
May 17, 5:00- 7:00 pm, Leading change
Public comments
Thank you to this months hosts
Next meeting May 3, 5:00 pm at ________________. Host ___________________.
Meeting adjourned
Bancroft Betterment Monthly Meeting Agenda
April 5, 2010
5:00 pm at the Country Pub
Call to order.
Read and approve minutes of March 1, 2010 meeting.
Reports
1. School
2. Village
3. Betterment Corporation
4. Cuming County Economic Development
5. Q125
6. Neihardt Center
New Business
1. Community Garage Sale
2. Benefit for Trenton Schmeckpeper
3. Community Theatre
4.
5.
6.
Old Business
1. Community workshops- May 10, 5:00- 7:00 pm, Basics of visioning
May 17, 5:00- 7:00 pm, Leading change
Public comments
Thank you to this months hosts
Next meeting May 3, 5:00 pm at ________________. Host ___________________.
Meeting adjourned
Friday, March 26, 2010
Cosmic Ray research at the University of Nebraska
Dan Claes answers, "Could Cars, Computers and Cell Phones Be Vulnerable to Particles From Outer Space?" View the 1 minute video clip at http://www.unl.edu/.
In the background you will see a cosmic ray detector. Bancroft-Rosalie School has four of these detectors mounted under the roof of the mezzanine. The detectors are part of the physics curriculum, when we study subatomic particles. We are in the process of putting the detectors on the roof of the new gymnasium to gather cosmic ray data. This data will be shared by Dr. Claes and other researchers at UNL and Creighton University.
In the background you will see a cosmic ray detector. Bancroft-Rosalie School has four of these detectors mounted under the roof of the mezzanine. The detectors are part of the physics curriculum, when we study subatomic particles. We are in the process of putting the detectors on the roof of the new gymnasium to gather cosmic ray data. This data will be shared by Dr. Claes and other researchers at UNL and Creighton University.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Ryley to play in two all-star games
Ryley Mohl was selected to play in two all-star football games this summer. The East-West game will be played in Hastings on Saturday June 19. The Kansas-Nebraska game will be at Doane College on June 26th.
The picture shows Ryley signing a football letter of intent to play at Wayne State College.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Bancroft Community Theater meeting
The Bancroft Community Theater group met last night to begin planning the next theater production. The group is looking at the first weekend in October for the next performance. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday April 27 at 7:00 pm to look at plays the group may be interested in doing. Anyone interested in participating as an actor or working with music, the set, lighting, costumes or make-up are encouraged to attend.
Monday, March 22, 2010
State Budget news from the Center For Rural Affairs
This message was e-mailed yesterday from the Center Fr Rural Affairs:
LB 935, which contains the Appropriations Committee plan for balancing the state budget, had first round debate on March 16. Without much debate on the current budget status the bill was unanimously advanced to Select File. There was, however, plenty of talk about what's around the budget corner. Current projections show a $675 million deficit for the next two-year budget cycle (beginning July 2011) if revenue projections hold up, and up to $1 billion shortfall if they don't. This worst case scenario shows a budget shortfall approaching one-third of the state's annual $3.5 billion budget. If that scenario becomes reality be prepared for severe cuts across state government that impact rural people and communities, especially cuts to K-12 school aid.
LB 935, which contains the Appropriations Committee plan for balancing the state budget, had first round debate on March 16. Without much debate on the current budget status the bill was unanimously advanced to Select File. There was, however, plenty of talk about what's around the budget corner. Current projections show a $675 million deficit for the next two-year budget cycle (beginning July 2011) if revenue projections hold up, and up to $1 billion shortfall if they don't. This worst case scenario shows a budget shortfall approaching one-third of the state's annual $3.5 billion budget. If that scenario becomes reality be prepared for severe cuts across state government that impact rural people and communities, especially cuts to K-12 school aid.
Measures of Academic Progress
The school is looking at changing from the Iowa Test of Basic Skills (ITBS) for norm-referenced achievement testing and going with the Measures of Academic Progress (MAP). The MAP is a computer adaptive test, so the questions vary for each student based on how well they did on the previous questions. If they are answering correctly, the questions get progressively more difficult.
The MAP test can be given up to four times each year so teachers will be able to monitor student achivement more closely. Since they are on the computer, students will be able to take the tests during their study hall which will reduce the amount of time students miss class for taking the ITBS. Score reports are available to teachers within 24 hours after completion of the test.
The reading test yields a "lexile" score for each student, which identifies the grade level a student is reading at. This data will help the school determine if we are reaching our goal of 100% of high school graduates will read at the eighth grade reading level or above. This is not available from the ITBS.
Drawbacks to using MAP is that we will not be able to compare student test scores from ITBS with MAP scores. That means we may have to give both one or two years so we can compare scores from this year to next year and in subsequent years. We do this to see how student learning has changed from one year to the next.
The MAP test can be given up to four times each year so teachers will be able to monitor student achivement more closely. Since they are on the computer, students will be able to take the tests during their study hall which will reduce the amount of time students miss class for taking the ITBS. Score reports are available to teachers within 24 hours after completion of the test.
The reading test yields a "lexile" score for each student, which identifies the grade level a student is reading at. This data will help the school determine if we are reaching our goal of 100% of high school graduates will read at the eighth grade reading level or above. This is not available from the ITBS.
Drawbacks to using MAP is that we will not be able to compare student test scores from ITBS with MAP scores. That means we may have to give both one or two years so we can compare scores from this year to next year and in subsequent years. We do this to see how student learning has changed from one year to the next.
Friday, March 19, 2010
President Obama sets high goal for schools
President Obama has set the goal that by 2020 the United States will have the highest percentage of college graduates of any country in the world. We used to have the #1 spot, but have dropped in the rankings to #10 in the world for people ages 25-34. The drop isn't because our college graduate percentage is decreasing, but that other countries have increased their number of graduates.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
29TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE “NEIHARDT AND THE SHORT STORY”
The Neihardt Foundation offers another excellent conference on Saturday, April 24th at the Neihardt State Historic Site in Bancroft, Nebraska. This year’s participating scholars are all authors and educators, each with much experience in creating short stories as was Neihardt. Although renowned as Nebraska’s Poet Laureate in Perpetuity, many of Neihardt’s earliest published works consisted of over 35 short stories based on traditional tales and accounts of historical events and incidents he heard from Omaha Indian men, traders, railroad workers, farmers, and others living on the Great Plains. Some ring of tall tales, some of tragedies, some of heroism, and some of the metaphysical.
This year’s program combines an academic approach with a close and personal look at the work of writers from different racial-ethnic groups to examine the inspirations, development, and strength of the short story as a medium to convey complex scenarios in masterfully crafted writing.
The featured speakers all share some renown as both writers and teachers. James Work, Professor Emeritus of English at Colorado State University has made many appearances at Neihardt conferences as a dramatic theater reader of Neihardt’s “Song of Three Friends” and a paper on the mountain man Mike Fink. He will address the accepted formula for writing short story and examine whether Neihardt’s short stories, all written between 1907 and 1911, followed that prescription. This will lay the groundwork for hearing from three other well-known short story authors. Karen Gettert Shoemaker, Creative Writing faculty at UN – Omaha, will speak on “creating the types of stories I loved to read.” Two speakers will explore the diversity of ethnic and racial perspectives in the genre. Linda Hogan is a Chickasaw from Oklahoma whose father was born in Nebraska. She has written novels, scripts for PBS, books of poetry, and non-fiction essays, as well as short stories. Environmental, spiritual, and human rights issues are prominent in her work and she will focus on placing historical and contemporary issues into the short story format. Ricardo Garcia is a poet, fiction writer, and accomplished storyteller. He teaches the art of storytelling at a variety of venues; as he says “anywhere anybody will listen.” His focus will be on universal truths told with humor and clarity from ethnic perspectives. Moderator for the day will be Neil Harrison, Dean of Language Arts at Northeast Community College and the Outside Evaluator will be Lisa Sandlin, Creative Writing instructor at UNO.
Registration for the conference can be made by mail, phone, or e-mail. Cost is $20 per person pre-registered, $25 at the door, and $15 for students. Lunch reservations at $8 must be made by April 20th. The conference day begins at 8:30 AM with the first presentations beginning at 9:00 and ends at 4:30 PM. Lunch will be served at The Country Pub, 409 Main Street. Presenters’ books will be available for sale and signing. Funding for the conference has been provided by the Neihardt Foundation, the Nebraska Humanities Council, Cuming County Visitors Bureau, and Wayne State College School of Arts and Humanities. To register, call 402-648-3388 or toll free 1-888-777-4667; on-line: Neihardt@gpcom.net; by mail: PO Box 344, Bancroft, NE 68004. The Neihardt State Historic Site is located at 306 West Elm Street, Bancroft, Nebraska and is a branch museum of the Nebraska State Historical Society.
This year’s program combines an academic approach with a close and personal look at the work of writers from different racial-ethnic groups to examine the inspirations, development, and strength of the short story as a medium to convey complex scenarios in masterfully crafted writing.
The featured speakers all share some renown as both writers and teachers. James Work, Professor Emeritus of English at Colorado State University has made many appearances at Neihardt conferences as a dramatic theater reader of Neihardt’s “Song of Three Friends” and a paper on the mountain man Mike Fink. He will address the accepted formula for writing short story and examine whether Neihardt’s short stories, all written between 1907 and 1911, followed that prescription. This will lay the groundwork for hearing from three other well-known short story authors. Karen Gettert Shoemaker, Creative Writing faculty at UN – Omaha, will speak on “creating the types of stories I loved to read.” Two speakers will explore the diversity of ethnic and racial perspectives in the genre. Linda Hogan is a Chickasaw from Oklahoma whose father was born in Nebraska. She has written novels, scripts for PBS, books of poetry, and non-fiction essays, as well as short stories. Environmental, spiritual, and human rights issues are prominent in her work and she will focus on placing historical and contemporary issues into the short story format. Ricardo Garcia is a poet, fiction writer, and accomplished storyteller. He teaches the art of storytelling at a variety of venues; as he says “anywhere anybody will listen.” His focus will be on universal truths told with humor and clarity from ethnic perspectives. Moderator for the day will be Neil Harrison, Dean of Language Arts at Northeast Community College and the Outside Evaluator will be Lisa Sandlin, Creative Writing instructor at UNO.
Registration for the conference can be made by mail, phone, or e-mail. Cost is $20 per person pre-registered, $25 at the door, and $15 for students. Lunch reservations at $8 must be made by April 20th. The conference day begins at 8:30 AM with the first presentations beginning at 9:00 and ends at 4:30 PM. Lunch will be served at The Country Pub, 409 Main Street. Presenters’ books will be available for sale and signing. Funding for the conference has been provided by the Neihardt Foundation, the Nebraska Humanities Council, Cuming County Visitors Bureau, and Wayne State College School of Arts and Humanities. To register, call 402-648-3388 or toll free 1-888-777-4667; on-line: Neihardt@gpcom.net; by mail: PO Box 344, Bancroft, NE 68004. The Neihardt State Historic Site is located at 306 West Elm Street, Bancroft, Nebraska and is a branch museum of the Nebraska State Historical Society.
Learning To Lead series in Lyons tonight
We will be starting the 3rd phase of the Learning to Lead Program. Entrepreneurial and Innovative Thinking will be the topic presented tonight by Connie Reimers Hild. We will be meeting at 6:00 at Center for Rural Affairs in Lyons. Please help get the word out and let Steph Fritz at the Center For Rural Affairs know if you are planning on attending..
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
School nurse services next year
Bancroft-Rosalie School contracts with the Elkhorn Logan Valley Health Department for school nurse services. The cost this year is $4250. I have started the discussion with the school board to look at hiring a Licensed Practical Nurse to serve our school next year. That cost would run between $22,000-$25,000. The benefit would be that we would have someone available every day to oversee student medications taken at school, teach CPR and First aid to high school physical education and health science students, provide health instruction to elementary students, and teach a Certified Nurses Aide class in the spring as part of the Health Science curriculum. The LPN could work on health screenings and health record keeping (like immunizations) year-round.
This position would be paid for using poverty funds. Next year it is expected that the school will receive over $70,000 in poverty funds. This money must be expended for programs that are specific to poverty students. A school nurse would qualify as a poverty expense.
This year the poverty money was used to pay the salary of the Reading Coach and for teacher training in reading and math. Next year the training expenses will be reduced.
This position would be paid for using poverty funds. Next year it is expected that the school will receive over $70,000 in poverty funds. This money must be expended for programs that are specific to poverty students. A school nurse would qualify as a poverty expense.
This year the poverty money was used to pay the salary of the Reading Coach and for teacher training in reading and math. Next year the training expenses will be reduced.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Community Theater planning another production
The Community Theater will hold a planning meeting Tuesday March 23 at 7:00 pm in the Bancroft-Rosalie School library. Marie Vogt has graciously volunteered to direct the play again this year. Anyone interested in participated is encouraged to attend the planning meeting.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Bancroft Fire and Rescue Annual Soup Luncheon
The annual soup luncheon will be held this Sunday, March 14 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm in the Bancroft Community Building. The luncheon is a fundraiser for the Bancroft Fire and Rescue Department.
The Firemen will be serving Chili, Chicken Noodle and Arlan Petersen's special Ham and Bean soup. And of course desserts.
The cost is $5 for adults and $2.50 for children.
The Firemen will be serving Chili, Chicken Noodle and Arlan Petersen's special Ham and Bean soup. And of course desserts.
The cost is $5 for adults and $2.50 for children.
Friday, March 12, 2010
B-R staff reviews Title I Plan
On Monday March8, while many werein the B-R School watching the District speech contest, B-R staff were reviewing and revising the school Title I plan. Title I plan review is a requirement of the Department of Education.
The plan abstract that was reviewed is below:
Bancroft-Rosalie School uses a Three-Tier Reading Model for reading instruction. Tier One is core classroom reading instruction; Tier two is supplemental instruction, designed to meet the needs of students for which core instruction is not enough, by providing them with additional small-group reading instruction daily; and tier three is instruction for intensive intervention. This is for the small percentage of students who require more support in acquiring vital reading skills than supplemental instruction can provide.
The assessment tool for benchmark testing in Reading for grades K-6 will be the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills. DIBELS will provide assessments to 1) screen, 2) monitor students’ progress and 3) diagnose students to identify those students who may be at risk of reading failure in future years. The Reading Coach coordinates the DIBELS testing program and oversees the implementation of the interventions. The Reading Team meets once a week to discuss student progress and interventions. The school follows a Decision Rule Plan for analyzing student data and determining what interventions will be used and if the interventions are working.
Bancroft-Rosalie School provides full day kindergarten and summer school is provided for at-risk students in grades K-6 in the areas of math and reading. Grades K-3 have a 120 minute uninterrupted reading block and 45 minutes of classroom time scheduled for interventions. Grades 4-6 have a 90 minute reading block and a 45 minute intervention time. Two paraprofessionals are provided in the kindergarten room and one paraprofessional is provided in each first and second grade classroom during the reading block and intervention times.
The core reading program is Reading Mastery. The National Institute For Direct Instruction (NIFDI) has been contracted as an external consultant to ensure that Reading Mastery, Spelling Mastery and the language program are being implemented as intended.
In 2009-10, Bancroft-Rosalie will be implementing Connecting Math Concepts in grades K-2. Math screening and progress monitoring will be done using mClass Math. NIFDI will also serve as the external consultant for the math implementation.
The plan abstract that was reviewed is below:
Bancroft-Rosalie School uses a Three-Tier Reading Model for reading instruction. Tier One is core classroom reading instruction; Tier two is supplemental instruction, designed to meet the needs of students for which core instruction is not enough, by providing them with additional small-group reading instruction daily; and tier three is instruction for intensive intervention. This is for the small percentage of students who require more support in acquiring vital reading skills than supplemental instruction can provide.
The assessment tool for benchmark testing in Reading for grades K-6 will be the Dynamic Indicators of Basic Early Literacy Skills. DIBELS will provide assessments to 1) screen, 2) monitor students’ progress and 3) diagnose students to identify those students who may be at risk of reading failure in future years. The Reading Coach coordinates the DIBELS testing program and oversees the implementation of the interventions. The Reading Team meets once a week to discuss student progress and interventions. The school follows a Decision Rule Plan for analyzing student data and determining what interventions will be used and if the interventions are working.
Bancroft-Rosalie School provides full day kindergarten and summer school is provided for at-risk students in grades K-6 in the areas of math and reading. Grades K-3 have a 120 minute uninterrupted reading block and 45 minutes of classroom time scheduled for interventions. Grades 4-6 have a 90 minute reading block and a 45 minute intervention time. Two paraprofessionals are provided in the kindergarten room and one paraprofessional is provided in each first and second grade classroom during the reading block and intervention times.
The core reading program is Reading Mastery. The National Institute For Direct Instruction (NIFDI) has been contracted as an external consultant to ensure that Reading Mastery, Spelling Mastery and the language program are being implemented as intended.
In 2009-10, Bancroft-Rosalie will be implementing Connecting Math Concepts in grades K-2. Math screening and progress monitoring will be done using mClass Math. NIFDI will also serve as the external consultant for the math implementation.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Cuming County Visitors Bureau meeting
Last night the Cuming County Visitors Bureau met at the Soiled Dove in Wisner. The committee meets four times a year and accepts grant applications that promote travel and tourism in Cuming County twice a year. The application deadlines are March 1 and September 1. Grant funds are generated through a 1% sales tax at lodging properties in Cuming County. The budget for 2009-10 is $18,286.96 and the budget year ends June 30, 2010.
Committee officers are Butch Kreikemeier- President, Jon Cerny- Vice President, and Tina Welding- Secretary-Treasurer.
Grants approved last night:
Thunder by the River $1500
Beemer Firemen- Dance $100
John G. Neihardt Foundation- Neihardt Day $350
John G Neihardt Foundation- Neihardt Spring Conference $350
Beemer Community Club $500
Wisner Volunteer Fire- Dance $100
Wisner Chamber $500
Indian Trails Country Club $1500
Cuming County Ag Society $1500
Cuming County Ag Society $204
These grants are to be used for advertising to increase tourism. Grant recipients must submit receipts to show what grant funds were used for and must have "Events funded in part by a grant from the Cuming County Visitors Bureau" on all printed materials, radio ads, TV commercials and any other form of advertisement.
At the January meeting the Nielsen Center was granted for 2009-10 to be used to market the facility for large events.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, May 19th at the Country Pub in Bancroft.
Committee officers are Butch Kreikemeier- President, Jon Cerny- Vice President, and Tina Welding- Secretary-Treasurer.
Grants approved last night:
Thunder by the River $1500
Beemer Firemen- Dance $100
John G. Neihardt Foundation- Neihardt Day $350
John G Neihardt Foundation- Neihardt Spring Conference $350
Beemer Community Club $500
Wisner Volunteer Fire- Dance $100
Wisner Chamber $500
Indian Trails Country Club $1500
Cuming County Ag Society $1500
Cuming County Ag Society $204
These grants are to be used for advertising to increase tourism. Grant recipients must submit receipts to show what grant funds were used for and must have "Events funded in part by a grant from the Cuming County Visitors Bureau" on all printed materials, radio ads, TV commercials and any other form of advertisement.
At the January meeting the Nielsen Center was granted for 2009-10 to be used to market the facility for large events.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, May 19th at the Country Pub in Bancroft.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Cuming County Economic Development Board meeting
At last evenings Cuming County Economic Development Board of Directors meeting, the board looked through the list of applications for the Director position and identified seven candidates to contact for interviews. The interview committee is myself, Dave Steffensmeier, and Karen Linnenbrink.
The budget was reviewed and no changes were made. The total budget is $98,243.46, including $28,300 in in-kind contributions.
Adoption of the by-law's was tabled until the County Attorney has given his approval.
Possible grant sources for additional funding to increase the salary of the director were discussed.
The budget was reviewed and no changes were made. The total budget is $98,243.46, including $28,300 in in-kind contributions.
Adoption of the by-law's was tabled until the County Attorney has given his approval.
Possible grant sources for additional funding to increase the salary of the director were discussed.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Forms for Temporary Delegation of Parental Powers on Judicial Branch Web Site
Understanding that it is often cost prohibitive for parents to request the assistance of an attorney each time they leave their children in the care of a relative or friend, the Nebraska Supreme Court’s Committee on Pro Se (self-help) Litigation has developed a free online form with instructions.
The ‘Temporary Delegation of Parental Powers’ form is provided to people who wish to grant authority over a child to another person for a limited period of time. This type of form is often used where, due to the expected absence of a parent, another person is authorized to consent to medical treatment, enrollment in school, or other academic or athletic programs, etc. The form is not filed with the court; it is kept by the individual caring for the child and shown to hospitals, schools, day-cares and others when needed.
“Many members of our committee felt strongly that we should create this form as a public service. Parents in our communities often have circumstances that require them to designate someone to make decisions on behalf of their child. The instructions and form will help them through that process,” said Judge Richard Sievers, Chairman of the Nebraska Supreme Court Committee on Pro Se Litigation.
Nebraska law allows for a parent or legal guardian of a minor child to designate, for brief periods of time, another adult to make important decisions that the parents would ordinarily make on behalf of their children. This temporary delegation of parental powers is limited to a six-month period. After six-months the parent or legal guardian may complete another form.This and other self-help forms are available on the Judicial Branch Web site at: www.supremecourt.ne.gov under the ‘Self Help Center’ button.
The ‘Temporary Delegation of Parental Powers’ form is provided to people who wish to grant authority over a child to another person for a limited period of time. This type of form is often used where, due to the expected absence of a parent, another person is authorized to consent to medical treatment, enrollment in school, or other academic or athletic programs, etc. The form is not filed with the court; it is kept by the individual caring for the child and shown to hospitals, schools, day-cares and others when needed.
“Many members of our committee felt strongly that we should create this form as a public service. Parents in our communities often have circumstances that require them to designate someone to make decisions on behalf of their child. The instructions and form will help them through that process,” said Judge Richard Sievers, Chairman of the Nebraska Supreme Court Committee on Pro Se Litigation.
Nebraska law allows for a parent or legal guardian of a minor child to designate, for brief periods of time, another adult to make important decisions that the parents would ordinarily make on behalf of their children. This temporary delegation of parental powers is limited to a six-month period. After six-months the parent or legal guardian may complete another form.This and other self-help forms are available on the Judicial Branch Web site at: www.supremecourt.ne.gov under the ‘Self Help Center’ button.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Youth Physical Activity Funding information
Goldenrod Hills Community Action, Inc. is administering a Youth Physical Activity Program for children and youth age 0-18 years old. This program will fund various types of physical activity costs up to $75 per child.
The following are examples of activities: summer ball registration fees, swimming pool passes, swimming lessons, sport camps, school physical activities, summer/fall sports programs and community recreational memberships. The program will not pay for shoes, ball gloves or anything that has to be purchased from a retailer.
These funds will be available until September 30th 2010 or until funds are depleted. This program serves income eligible households that are at or below 200% of federal poverty levels. There is a application process, all payments are made to the school, association, city etc. No payments will be made to any individuals, parents or retailers. We cannot reimburse parents if they have already paid for the activity. The Youth Physical Activity Program is being funded through the American Recovery Reinvestment Act administered through the Community Service Block Grant program.
Goldenrod Hills Community Action, Inc.
Family Services
1119 Ave E
Wisner, NE 68791
402-529-3513 or 1-800-445-2505
The following are examples of activities: summer ball registration fees, swimming pool passes, swimming lessons, sport camps, school physical activities, summer/fall sports programs and community recreational memberships. The program will not pay for shoes, ball gloves or anything that has to be purchased from a retailer.
These funds will be available until September 30th 2010 or until funds are depleted. This program serves income eligible households that are at or below 200% of federal poverty levels. There is a application process, all payments are made to the school, association, city etc. No payments will be made to any individuals, parents or retailers. We cannot reimburse parents if they have already paid for the activity. The Youth Physical Activity Program is being funded through the American Recovery Reinvestment Act administered through the Community Service Block Grant program.
Goldenrod Hills Community Action, Inc.
Family Services
1119 Ave E
Wisner, NE 68791
402-529-3513 or 1-800-445-2505
Friday, March 5, 2010
State aid for 2010-11
The Nebraska Department of Education just released state aid certifications for next year. Bancroft-Rosalie School will receive $1,137,891, an increase of $151,000. The state consists of $682,650 in equalization aid and $447,440 in net option funding.
The state is paying $112,511 of the money from federal stimulus money, which ends this year. The talk in Lincoln is that schools should plan on losing that amount of money in state aid the following year.
The state is paying $112,511 of the money from federal stimulus money, which ends this year. The talk in Lincoln is that schools should plan on losing that amount of money in state aid the following year.
School Board meeting news
The Bancroft-Rosalie Board of Education met Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 7:30 pm in Bancroft.
Superintendent Cerny presented the February transportation report, NRCSA Spring Conference, NENCAP report, football bleachers, and school nurse. Principal Sjuts reported on Parent-Teacher Conferences and the insurance safety inspection.
In old business the board discussed the proposed classroom addition and the policy on activities when school is cancelled.
In new business the board amended the 2009-10 school calendar and adopted the 2010-11 school calendar. The board also named Superintendent Cerny authorized representative for federal, state and local programs, approved a contract with Peters Lawn Service, approved Roxanne Raasch for driver education, and hired Gaylann McClain as assistant custodian.
The board went into executive session to discuss the evaluation and hiring of teachers. Following executive session, the board voted to offer contracts to the teaching staff based on the recommendation of the principal.
Superintendent Cerny presented the February transportation report, NRCSA Spring Conference, NENCAP report, football bleachers, and school nurse. Principal Sjuts reported on Parent-Teacher Conferences and the insurance safety inspection.
In old business the board discussed the proposed classroom addition and the policy on activities when school is cancelled.
In new business the board amended the 2009-10 school calendar and adopted the 2010-11 school calendar. The board also named Superintendent Cerny authorized representative for federal, state and local programs, approved a contract with Peters Lawn Service, approved Roxanne Raasch for driver education, and hired Gaylann McClain as assistant custodian.
The board went into executive session to discuss the evaluation and hiring of teachers. Following executive session, the board voted to offer contracts to the teaching staff based on the recommendation of the principal.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Governor Heineman comments at the Nebraska Rural Schools legislative forum
Governor Heineman reported that the state economic forecasting board met at the end of February and determined that there would be a $30 million dollar shortfall in state revenues. But he added that Nebraska is in better shape than most states. Historically as the national economy recovers, state revenues lag. Which means that the Governor feels that there will be a few rough years ahead for the state budget.
The Governor also talked about the P-16 state initiative. There are 8 goals for P-16 education:
1. Development of a core curriculum for the state that is rigorous.
2. Eliminate academic achievement gaps between population subgroups
3. Develop an effective data system
4. A 90% graduation rate at every school
5. A top 10 college going rate among states
6. A virtual high school for students to take challenging courses on-line.
7. Affordable college access
8. Increase in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teachers and capability
He said that any student who can’t read by the end of the 6th grade is likely a drop-out.
The Governor also talked about the P-16 state initiative. There are 8 goals for P-16 education:
1. Development of a core curriculum for the state that is rigorous.
2. Eliminate academic achievement gaps between population subgroups
3. Develop an effective data system
4. A 90% graduation rate at every school
5. A top 10 college going rate among states
6. A virtual high school for students to take challenging courses on-line.
7. Affordable college access
8. Increase in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) teachers and capability
He said that any student who can’t read by the end of the 6th grade is likely a drop-out.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
School Foundation - January meeting minutes
Here are the minutes of the January School Foundation Board meeting-
Bancroft-Rosalie Schools Educational Foundation
Thursday, January 28, 2010
7:03 p.m.
President Jon Cerny called the Bancroft-Rosalie School Educational Foundation meeting to order on Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 7:03 p.m. Board members present were Lori Archer, Jon Bailey, Jon Cerny, Judy Ross, Laurie Soll, Beverly Zwygart, Patty Wegner and Marjorie Vogt. Board member Naomi Brummond was absent.
A motion was made by Vogt, seconded by Bailey to approve the minutes of the Monday, January 19, 2009 meeting as presented. The minutes were approved.
Lori Archer gave the treasurers report: Checking $100, Savings $2,684 and 3 CD’s totaling $37,836.08 equaling $40,620.86 as of January 28, 2010. Approximately $16,740 was donated in 2009 including $11,100 that went towards the ‘Record Boards’ that are displayed in the commons area. The interest accrued for the year was $119.67. A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Wegner to approve the treasurer’s report. The motion was approved.
A motion was made by Vogt, seconded by Wegner to retain the present officers for the following year. The motion was approved.
The Foundation will continue sending a letter to the spokesperson from Bancroft-Rosalie’s honored classes and have them challenge their class to compete against other honored classes to give generously toward the Educational Foundation. The board discussed improved methods to attempt to encourage more of BR’s alumni to help organize, participate and attend the banquet and spend time in the community.
The Board approved the filing of Form 990 tax return for non-profit organizations.
President Cerny asked if there were any changes to the “Educational Foundation” newsletter. There were none.
A motion was made by Wegner, seconded by Bailey to present five $150 scholarships with two alternates to the 2010 graduates with at least one of the five being given to a student attending a community or a vocational school. The motion was approved. The scholarship committee consists of Bailey, Wegner, and Zwygart.
A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Wegner to adjourn. The motion was approved. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Bancroft-Rosalie Schools Educational Foundation
Thursday, January 28, 2010
7:03 p.m.
President Jon Cerny called the Bancroft-Rosalie School Educational Foundation meeting to order on Thursday, January 28, 2010 at 7:03 p.m. Board members present were Lori Archer, Jon Bailey, Jon Cerny, Judy Ross, Laurie Soll, Beverly Zwygart, Patty Wegner and Marjorie Vogt. Board member Naomi Brummond was absent.
A motion was made by Vogt, seconded by Bailey to approve the minutes of the Monday, January 19, 2009 meeting as presented. The minutes were approved.
Lori Archer gave the treasurers report: Checking $100, Savings $2,684 and 3 CD’s totaling $37,836.08 equaling $40,620.86 as of January 28, 2010. Approximately $16,740 was donated in 2009 including $11,100 that went towards the ‘Record Boards’ that are displayed in the commons area. The interest accrued for the year was $119.67. A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Wegner to approve the treasurer’s report. The motion was approved.
A motion was made by Vogt, seconded by Wegner to retain the present officers for the following year. The motion was approved.
The Foundation will continue sending a letter to the spokesperson from Bancroft-Rosalie’s honored classes and have them challenge their class to compete against other honored classes to give generously toward the Educational Foundation. The board discussed improved methods to attempt to encourage more of BR’s alumni to help organize, participate and attend the banquet and spend time in the community.
The Board approved the filing of Form 990 tax return for non-profit organizations.
President Cerny asked if there were any changes to the “Educational Foundation” newsletter. There were none.
A motion was made by Wegner, seconded by Bailey to present five $150 scholarships with two alternates to the 2010 graduates with at least one of the five being given to a student attending a community or a vocational school. The motion was approved. The scholarship committee consists of Bailey, Wegner, and Zwygart.
A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Wegner to adjourn. The motion was approved. The meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Notes from last nights community meeting
Approximately 40 people attended the community meeting held at the Country Pub last night. The purpose of this meeting was to bring together the leaders in the community of Bancroft to discuss what our community wants in regards to economic development. All major community boards were represented, including all five members of the Village Board. Snacks were provided by Stan Wegner of Farm Bureau Insurance.
Jon Bailey gave an overview of the Cuming County Economic Development Board progress so far. It is hoped that a director will be hired and on the job before May 1st.
Group discussion focused on organizing our community leaders so that we have a common vision for the community. The value of the Bancroft Betterment 501c3 status was emphasized. It was decided to move the monthly Community Betterment meetings to the first Monday of the month at 5:00 pm so more business people can attend. A community meeting will be scheduled and an outside facilitator will be brought in to lead the community through the community planning process.
The next meeting will be at 5:00 pm April 5th at the Country Pub.
Jon Bailey gave an overview of the Cuming County Economic Development Board progress so far. It is hoped that a director will be hired and on the job before May 1st.
Group discussion focused on organizing our community leaders so that we have a common vision for the community. The value of the Bancroft Betterment 501c3 status was emphasized. It was decided to move the monthly Community Betterment meetings to the first Monday of the month at 5:00 pm so more business people can attend. A community meeting will be scheduled and an outside facilitator will be brought in to lead the community through the community planning process.
The next meeting will be at 5:00 pm April 5th at the Country Pub.
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