August 11, 2025 at 12:00 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting
| Regular Board | |
| Attendance Taken on 8/11/2025 at 11:55 AM | |
| Lisa Brass | Present |
| Matt Dalrymple | Present |
| Kyle Fornoff | Present |
| Becky Jobman | Present |
| Ryan Sukraw | Present |
| Kelly Terrell | Present |
| Present: 6, Absent: 0 | |
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Comments:
Dr. Allison Jonas, Superintendent Seth Ryker, Jr/Sr High Principal Josi Floyd, Elementary Principal Marc Maroczek, Activities Director & Assistant Jr/Sr High Principal Maggie Tiller, Director of Teaching & Learning Becky Vang, Business Manager |
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| Minutes | |
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1. Call to Order & Pledge of Allegiance
Rationale:
Mission Statement: A copy of the open meetings law is posted on the wall of the Board Room and is available to the public. |
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2. Swearing-In of New Board Member
Rationale:
Following the resignation of Board Member Mr. Nate Wyatt, the Board of Education appointed Mr. Ryan Sukraw to fill the vacant position. In accordance with board policy and statutory requirements, the newly appointed member must be officially sworn in prior to participating in board business. This action ensures compliance with Nebraska state law and confirms Mr. Sukraw's role as an active, voting member of the Board of Education.
Discussion:
Mr. Fornoff began by providing background on the appointment process for the board vacancy. He noted that Mr. Wyatt resigned in June after 18.5 years of service. Following this, the Executive Committee—comprised of Mrs. Terrell, Mrs. Jobman, and Mr. Fornoff—chose to open a formal application process rather than make a virtual appointment. The committee developed targeted questions to guide candidate evaluation, and the application remained open for approximately three weeks. After receiving three strong applications, each committee member independently reviewed and evaluated the candidates, identifying strengths and areas of concern. The Executive Committee then reconvened and unanimously selected Mr. Ryan Sukraw to fill the vacancy. Mr. Fornoff emphasized that while circumstances may change, the board remains committed to providing high-quality public education and supporting its staff and administrative team. He expressed confidence in Mr. Sukraw’s ability to contribute to a cohesive and effective board. Mr. Sukraw thanked the board for the opportunity to serve and expressed appreciation for being part of a successful and forward-moving district. He addressed the recent, last-minute decision regarding the change in his children's school enrollment, explaining it was made for personal reasons and in the best interest of his family. He acknowledged the timing and optics of the decision were not ideal but reiterated his strong support for the district and its staff, praising the positive experiences his family has had with teachers and administrators. He affirmed that his dedication to serving on the board remains unchanged. Mr. Fornoff asked Dr. Jonas if she had any comments; she did not. Mr. Fornoff then proceeded with the administration of the oath of office. Mr. Sukraw stood and read the oath aloud, affirming his commitment to uphold the Constitutions of the United States and Nebraska and to faithfully fulfill the responsibilities of his role on the Board of Education. Following the oath, Mr. Fornoff congratulated and officially welcomed Mr. Sukraw to the board.
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2.1. Review of Board/Superintendent Operating Protocol and Organizational Structure
Rationale:
It is important to review the board/superintendent operating protocol and the organizational structure each time the board reorganizes.
A successful board and administration alignment can be defined as a connected group of individuals working together, not as separate entities, but a team with clear purpose and understanding of roles with a common goal of making decisions that are in the best interests of students, staff, and community. The Board and Administration are not in competition with each other but are competing to meet the individual and collective needs of students.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas provided an overview of two key governance documents: the district’s Organizational Chart and the Board-Superintendent Operating Protocol. She noted that these are typically reviewed each January during the board’s reorganization and were also recently discussed with Mr. Sukraw. Dr. Jonas explained that the Organizational Chart outlines supervisory relationships within the district. While it does not include individual names, those can be found on the district calendar or located easily through the district’s website. She emphasized that the visual format of the chart can be helpful for understanding the district’s internal structure. The second document reviewed was the Board-Superintendent Operating Protocol. This protocol outlines expectations and communication standards between the board and the superintendent. Dr. Jonas highlighted the key tenets:
She summarized by stating that effective governance depends on strong alignment between the board and administration—working as a cohesive team with clear roles and a shared commitment to the best interests of students, staff, and the community. She emphasized that the board and administration should not operate in competition, but rather in partnership, striving to meet the needs of all learners. Mr. Fornoff noted that no action was taken on this item and moved the meeting forward.
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2.2. Review Chain of Command
Rationale:
Board Policy 3035 outlines that the superintendent shall be in control of all school district operations except as provided by another policy or as otherwise provided by law. Linked here is the administrative chain of command, working from the lowest level in the chain upward.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas provided a reminder regarding the district’s Chain of Command protocol, noting that a recent policy update required it to be presented during the July meeting. She emphasized that the protocol is not intended to exclude anyone from the communication process, but rather to ensure that concerns are addressed by the individuals most equipped to respond—those closest to the issue. She explained that when questions or concerns arise, it's most effective to begin with the individual directly involved, as they often have the most detailed and accurate information. This applies whether the concern is brought to a board member, principal, or other district staff. Dr. Jonas also clarified that if the concern involves the person listed as the first point of contact, it is entirely appropriate to escalate the matter to the next level in the chain. The intent is not to create barriers, but to facilitate effective resolution by gathering the necessary context and facts from the appropriate sources. Dr. Jonas asked if there were any questions regarding the protocol. Seeing none, Mr. Fornoff stated that the board would move on, with no action taken.
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2.3. Discussion of Standing Committees for the remainder of 2025
Rationale:
Standing Committees 1. Personnel / Negotiations 2. Facilities & Transportation 3. Finance 4. Committee on American Civics 5. Policy Policy 2002 outlines that the board shall authorize such special committees as it deems necessary. The board president shall appoint members to the committee, and designate its function, tasks it is to perform, and completion date for its work. After the initial appointment, positions can be modified by a majority vote of the board.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas noted that the updated list of board committee assignments was shared at the previous meeting, with minor adjustments made to reflect Mr. Sukraw’s recent appointment. She explained that committee roles had been shifted accordingly for the remainder of the year. The document includes the full list of appointed representatives, along with the Executive Committee members—comprised of the board president, vice president, and secretary. Dr. Jonas asked if there were any questions regarding the committee assignments. No questions were raised.
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2.4. Distribution of Conflict of Interest Policies and Forms
Rationale:
The final task under the Realignment of the Board of Education for the remainder of 2025 is to disseminate the conflict of interest policy and the associated form.
Policy 2005 outlines a Conflict of Interest when a board member has a business in which the board member or a member of his or her immediate family is a partner, a limited liability company, stockholder, or serves as a director or an officer for a business that could potentially benefit from board action. There is no action needed.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas reviewed the board's annual Conflict of Interest disclosure process, which is typically addressed in January. She noted that the relevant forms were included in the board’s green folders and that she had previously discussed the process with Mr. Sukraw. She explained that board members must disclose any potential conflicts of interest involving businesses in which they—or immediate family members—have a financial or leadership role (e.g., as partners, shareholders, LLC members, or officers), particularly if those businesses could benefit from board decisions. In cases where a conflict is identified, the affected board member is expected to recuse themselves from discussion and voting on the related item. Dr. Jonas provided a common example: when banking matters arise, Board Member Mrs. Jobman steps away from the table due to a known conflict involving her place of employment. She offered additional disclosure forms if needed and asked if there were any questions. Seeing none, Mr. Fornoff confirmed the board would move on with no action taken.
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3. Approve the Agenda
Rationale:
The Board reserves the right to rearrange the order of items as needed.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Attachments:
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4. Recognition of Visitors
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4.1. Public Participation
Rationale:
Board Policy 2009 - Opportunity for Public Expression. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC WHO WISH TO SPEAK: This is the portion of the meeting when members of the public may speak to the board about matters of public concern.
Discussion:
No public participation.
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5. Action Items
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5.1. Consent Agenda
Rationale:
1. Approval of Previous Minutes 2. Approval of the Treasurer's Report 3. Approval of the Warrants / Bills a. Petty Cash b. Student Activity c. Hot Lunch d. Bank Statement e. Summary of Accounts and Receipts f. Monthly Expenditure Report g. Check Journal 4. Excuse Absent Board Members
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Attachments:
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5.2. Surplus
Rationale:
School districts periodically identify equipment, furniture, and materials that are no longer functional, safe, cost-effective to repair, or aligned with current instructional or operational needs. Surplusing such items allows the district to responsibly dispose of or repurpose outdated or unneeded property, maintain an efficient use of storage space, and ensure that district resources are directed toward items that support student learning and district operations.
The board is asked to consider the following item(s) as surplus:
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas explained the district’s periodic process of identifying equipment, furniture, and materials that are no longer functional, safe, cost-effective to repair, or aligned with current instructional or operational needs. Surplusing such items allows for responsible disposal or repurposing, helps maintain efficient storage use, and ensures district resources are focused on supporting student learning and operations. She noted that surplusing typically occurs in the spring as part of clearing out unneeded items. Recently, Mr. Johnson brought to her attention a vibraphone that had been replaced over the summer. Although initially uncertain if it met the criteria for surplus due to value, Dr. Jonas confirmed that a new vibraphone costs approximately $6,000, which qualifies it as a significant asset. The board intends to surplus the vibraphone with the hope of finding a music enthusiast who can restore and care for the instrument. Mr. Fornoff invited questions, and Mr. Dalrymple inquired about what a vibraphone is. Dr. Jonas responded that it is similar to a xylophone but with distinct characteristics. |
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5.3. Discuss and consider approval of the proposed slate of directors for the Impact Center Operating Board as chosen by the Gothenburg Impact Center Facilities Agency.
Rationale:
The Gothenburg Impact Center Facilities Agency is represented by the city and the school. One of their roles is to propose a slate of directors for the Impact Center Operating Board. This board is responsible for the following activities:
Also on the Board of Directors - Terms Expiring 2027
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Mr. Fornoff provided an overview of the Gothenburg Impact Center Facilities Agency, which is jointly represented by the city and the school district. One of the agency’s responsibilities is to propose a slate of directors for the Impact Center Operating Board. He outlined the Operating Board’s primary duties, which include:
The proposed slate of at-large directors includes Alexandria Colwell, Helen Cool, and Kristi Kreuscher. Mr. Fornoff invited Dr. Jonas to add any context from her recent participation in a related meeting. Dr. Jonas noted that this step aligns with the board's original planning efforts when the agency’s structure was established. While it may appear procedural, board approval of the slate serves as a quality control measure to uphold expectations and outcomes within the facility. Mr. Dalrymple inquired about how the directors representing the city, school, and community are selected. Dr. Jonas explained that each entity appoints its own representatives: the school board appoints its representative directly, the city’s appointments are handled by the city board (including Gary Greer), and she was uncertain about who made the hospital's appointment. Following clarification, Mr. Fornoff restated that the board was approving the proposed slate of Alexandria Colwell, Helen Cool, and Kristi Kreuscher, and asked if there were any questions regarding the individuals. No questions were raised.
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5.4. Discuss and consider approval of the 2025-2026 Gothenburg Public Schools Pandemic Preparedness Plan.
Rationale:
Annually, the board of education is asked to review and approve the Re-Opening plan. This plan is kept on our school website and has had no changes since last year although we are changing the name to Pandemic Preparedness Plan to represent the comprehensive nature of the plan.
Also included here is the "Exclusion and Re-Admittance" operating procedure we will utilize again this school year. This does not require board approval.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas presented the updated version of the district's pandemic response plan. She explained that, now five years removed from the onset of COVID-19, the document has been retitled from the "COVID Reopening Plan" to a more general name reflecting broader pandemic preparedness. While the content remains largely unchanged, the name update reflects the ongoing need for readiness in the face of any future public health crises, not just COVID-19. Dr. Jonas emphasized the importance of having a flexible plan that enables the district to respond quickly and effectively to emerging situations. She recommended the plan continue to be reviewed and approved annually, even if no substantive changes have been made, as is the case this year. She also highlighted the section regarding student exclusion and readmittance. While prior guidance had been more restrictive, the current approach—based on recommendations from the CDC and school nurse Mrs. Haas—follows a simple guideline: if a student is sick, they should stay home. Specific symptoms that warrant exclusion include fever, a new or persistent cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or loss of taste or smell. Students may return once symptoms have resolved and they are fever-free. A doctor's note is encouraged when possible to ensure the absence is excused. Dr. Jonas noted that students are allotted 10 excused sick days per year, and in most cases, absences due to illness fall well within that limit. She reassured the board that students who miss time due to illness will receive support in catching up on missed work and reiterated the district’s ongoing priority to protect the health of both students and staff. Mr. Fornoff asked if there were any questions. None were raised.
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5.5. Discuss and consider approval of transfers to the Depreciation Fund, the Activities Fund, the Cooperative Fund, and the Employee Benefit Fund.
Rationale:
Money was budgeted in the Depreciation Fund and is reserved for the repair and replacement of items such as the purchase of vehicles, a roof, or instructional equipment. The Superintendent recommends a transfer of $250,000 at this time.
Money is budgeted for general operating expenses in the Activities Fund. The activities director determines the short-term and long-term needs of the activities program in collaboration with the Superintendent. The superintendent recommends a transfer of $75,000 at this time. The Cooperative Fund is utilized for interlocal agreements where the school district is acting as the fiscal agent for any cooperative activity between one or more public agencies. In this case, we are preparing our first Operating Expenses payment now that The Impact Center is up and running. The superintendent recommends a transfer of $95,000 at this time. The Employee Benefit Fund is utilized as reserve General Fund money for employee benefits such as early retirement, health insurance, and unemployment. It is recommended that we transfer $35,000 into the Employee Benefit fund. There are sufficient resources in the budget to allow for these transfers, totaling $455,000 at this time.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas reviewed the district’s year-end financial transfers, noting that August marks the final month of the fiscal year, with the new fiscal year beginning September 1. Each August, the district evaluates its financial position and determines whether funds should be transferred to specific accounts. While the targeted funds are built into the budget annually, the exact transfer amounts may be adjusted based on year-end financial conditions. She outlined the following recommended transfers:
Dr. Jonas confirmed that after reviewing current financials, the district has adequate resources to support all four recommended transfers, totaling $455,000. Mr. Fornoff asked if there were any questions. No questions were raised. |
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5.6. Discuss, consider, and take all necessary action to adopt resolution increasing the school district’s base growth percentage used to determine the school district’s property tax request authority by up to six percent (6%).
Rationale:
For the third year, we have a third lid schools must statutorily observe when setting their budget: the property tax request authority. A motion to approve this increase would increase the base growth percentage used to determine Gothenburg Public School's property tax request authority for the 2025-2026 budget by an amount of 6%.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas provided an overview of the Property Tax Request Authority, a component of Nebraska’s school funding structure, now in its third year of consistent use. She explained that this authority is determined by a complex formula that dictates how much a school district can request in property taxes. Importantly, school boards are allowed to increase the base growth percentage—a key part of that formula—by up to 6% in districts of similar size. She emphasized that this discussion does not involve increasing taxes, levies, or the current tax request. Instead, it pertains solely to granting the authority to consider using up to a 6% increase in the base growth percentage during budget planning. Any actual use of that authority would be determined later during the district’s final budget workshop. By Nebraska law, such authority requires approval by a supermajority (at least 70%) of the board. The motion presented would allow the board to consider, but not necessarily implement, a base growth percentage increase of up to 6% for the 2025-2026 budget. Dr. Jonas also shared a visual comparison showing how Gothenburg Public Schools' tax request has grown by 16% over the past several years, while the rate of inflation during the same period has been 30%. She noted this reflects the district's effective fiscal management within the constraints of the state’s three "lid" limitations on school funding. Mr. Fornoff voiced support, noting that Dr. Jonas and the Finance Committee do an excellent job of projecting financial needs, but that the final numbers are often not available early enough to plan with precision. He emphasized that this motion simply gives the district the flexibility to adapt as final budget data becomes available.
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6. Policy & Procedure
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6.1. Second reading of proposed new policies.
Rationale:
After reviewing existing policy, the following proposals for new policy are linked here for consideration of the Board. No feedback was provided after the July board meeting therefore, there are no changes to what was presented last month.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas noted that the three policies under review were previously presented at the July meeting and received no feedback since then. As a result, no changes have been made to the proposed language. She confirmed the policies are ready for board approval, pending any final questions or discussion. Mr. Fornoff asked if there were any questions from the board. No questions were raised.
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6.2. Annual review of Attendance and Excessive Absenteeism Policy 5001.
Rationale:
State statute requires annual review of our Attendance and Excessive Absenteeism Policy 5001. This policy was updated in July to include "mental illness" in accordance with updated state statute.
As an annual notice, this is an informational item only. No action is required.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas reviewed the district’s annual attendance procedures, noting that while no board action is required, the topic is revisited each August. She reminded the board that regular attendance is required, but students who are sick should remain home. The attendance policy outlines expectations for consistent attendance and defines excessive absenteeism—which, under state statute, is triggered when a student accumulates five unexcused absences (or the equivalent) within a semester. When this threshold is reached, the district is required to follow up with the student and family. Dr. Jonas noted that parents often receive a notification letter and may be surprised, especially if absences were for legitimate reasons like medical appointments. In those cases, if families provide documentation from a medical professional, the absences are reclassified as excused. She encouraged families to submit medical notes whenever possible to ensure proper attendance records. Mr. Fornoff asked if there were any questions. No questions were raised, and the board moved on with no action taken.
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6.3. Second Reading of the 2025-2026 Activity Handbook
Rationale:
This is the second reading of our activity handbook. No additional feedback was provided after the July board meeting and there have been no additional updates. The handbook has been aligned with new and updated board policies.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas confirmed that no additional feedback was received following the July board meeting, and therefore, no changes or updates were made to the item presented. Mr. Fornoff asked if there were any further questions from the board. No questions were raised.
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6.4. Second Reading of the 2025-2026 Staff Handbook
Rationale:
This is the second reading of our staff handbook. It has been aligned with new board policies. No additional feedback was provided after the July board meeting, therefore, there are no changes since the July meeting.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
Discussion:
Dr. Jonas confirmed that no additional feedback had been received following the July meeting, so no changes were made to the item. Mr. Fornoff asked if there was any feedback from the board. None was provided.
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7. Reports
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7.1. Board of Education Reports
Rationale:
Committee Reports (Chair in bold)
Discussion:
Personnel Committee (Mr. Fornoff, Mrs. Terrell, Mrs. Brass) Transportation and Facilities Committee (Mr. Dalrymple, Mrs. Jobman) Finance Committee (Mrs. Jobman, Mrs. Brass) Committee on American Civics (Mrs. Terrell, Mr. Fornoff, Mr. Dalrymple) Policy Review Committee (Mrs. Terrell, Mr. Dalrymple, Mrs. Jobman)
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7.2. Administrative Reports
Rationale:
1. Topic Specific Administrative Reports
2. General Administrative Reports a. Elementary (Mrs. Floyd) b. High School (Mr. Ryker) c. Activities (Mr. Mroczek) d. Special Populations (Mrs. McKenna) e. Teaching and Learning (Mrs. Tiller) f. Superintendent (Dr. Jonas)
Discussion:
See attached reports.
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8. Next Meeting
Rationale:
Next Meeting: Monday, September 8th
Swede Activities: none Budget Meetings: Monday, August 25th @ 5PM (Budget Workshop) September 8th @ TBD (Budget Q & A) September 8th @ TBD (Regular Board Meeting)
Discussion:
The next meeting is scheduled for Monday September 8th at 6:00 PM with the Budget Q&A to precede that meeting at 5:30PM.
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9. Adjournment
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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