October 13, 2025 at 6:30 PM - Monthly Meeting

Discussion:  Mrs. McKinney presented an activity she uses in Business Essentials. They study the business cycle (prosperity, recession, depression, and recovery). Students are given 20 descriptors, and each team has to properly place them on the cycle. Everything from what economic indicators might measure, places people shop during these cycles, etc. She really enjoys this class because of all the different areas they get to cover.   

Discussion:  Mr. Boehler shared two projects with the board: an 8th-grade computer project (NVJH News video) and a 3D illustration of the Long Island school, created by the 7th-grade computer class, using SketchUp. 

Discussion:  Brian Thompson left the meeting at this time.

Discussion:  Jacque wanted to thank the board for the opportunity to work here for the last ten years, wanted them to know that she has really enjoyed it, and shared about a concern she had. The board thanked her for sharing and stated that any personnel decisions would be made in executive session. Jacque thanked the board for its consideration in the matter.  Jacque, Mrs. McKinney, and Mr. Boehler left at this time. 

Discussion:  Mr. Gebhard gave an update on transportation.  The cost of repairs on the bus with the tree damage was $31,000.  This had been turned into the insurance company; however, since that vehicle had already been totaled out in the hail damage claim a couple of years ago, Mr. Tharman had Mr. Gebhard list it on Purple Wave.  
 

Discussion:  Mr. Gebhard shared that the elevator company had brought out the correct keys for operating the elevator; however, we still need a better door installed on the top floor.  Christensen Construction has looked at the project and is confident that an affordable solution can be installed.  Mr. Gebhard has opened the conversations about classroom locations with the Elementary teachers and hopes to continue to explore options that will maximize effective use of space. 

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared which data is collected from PowerSchool and uploaded to KSDE KIDS.  He provided copies of the Principal Building Reports and Superintendent's Organization Report, where those numbers populate.  The accuracy of the PowerSchool data allows for a smoother KSDE audit when calculating the FTE and weightings.  

Discussion:  At 7:45 PM, the meeting returned to open session; no action taken. 

Discussion:  At 8:09 PM, the board returned to open session; no action taken. 

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman explained the confusion KSDE had created in developing a new survey to account for compliance with the Jason Flatt Act, Bullying Prevention, and Mandated Reporting. It seems like there is more emphasis starting on showing compliance on the school website in addition to the handbooks.  Mr. Tharman stated that over the next couple of months, he will be putting together information for the board to approve before posting it.  

Discussion:  Mr. Tharman shared about each of the following: Professional Development Plan was officially approved by the state through Smoky Hill / State Assessment scores / Every Student Succeeds Act expenditure report / Local Consolidated Plan Application / Food Service inspections / Boiler inspections / Continued sports and activities / Parent-Teacher conferences on Oct. 20th & 27th / New sound system for the HS gym / Fire escapes have been repaired / Mark Tallman (KASB) will be coming on October 29th to interview and visit with individuals to highlight the achievements of Northern Valley Schools.  
 

Discussion:  Mr. Gebhard shared the grade students went to the Pumpkin Patch in Beaver City / All GS and MS students went to the Dane G. Hansen Museum's Astronaut exhibit / Mr. Gebhard wanted to thank Mrs. Chandler for her heroic Heimlich Maneuver a couple of weeks ago / William Allen White trip to Emporia / Open House in Long Island was huge success with thanks to the Long Island American Legion for the watermelon / Thank you to Austin Thalheim and Mr. Pugh for organizing a flag display in recognition of Patriot Day / Final JH football game this Thursday with the final JH volleyball game next week. By the next board meeting, it will be basketball season.