August 12, 2025 at 7:00 PM - Regular Meeting
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I. Opening the Meeting
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I.A. Call Meeting to Order and Notification of Open Meeting Law
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I.A.i. Posted in the room
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I.A.ii. Publication of Meeting was provided according to 84-1411
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I.B. District Mission Statement:
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II. Board Member Roll Call
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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III. Excuse Absent Board Members
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IV. Approval of the Agenda and changes to the Agenda
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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V. Consent Agenda
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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V.A. Approval of minutes from the July regular meeting
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V.B. Approve claims and accounts
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V.C. Approve resignations
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V.D. Approve new hires
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VI. Public Comment
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VII. Information Items: Reports
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VII.A. Administrator reports
Discussion:
Mrs. Uhl and Mr. Brand recognized students and families for their outstanding representation at the Dakota-Thurston County Fair and updates on professional development priorities aligned to board goals. Assessment changes include the removal of NSCAS Growth for Fall/Winter, the use of MAP Growth in grades 3-8 for reading, math, and science, spring 2026 field testing of constructed response items in ELA (grades 4, 7, and 8), and ACT composite score changes excluding science, though it remains required for Nebraska accountability. Elementary efforts focus on increasing 3rd-grade ELA proficiency from 59% to 75% through explicit phonics, phonemic awareness, vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and writing, supported by a non-evaluative, relationship-based coaching model. Secondary updates included the onboarding of four certified teachers and two paraprofessionals, the start of fall sports, and a revised homecoming schedule (Oct. 6-10) to maximize participation. Beginning-of-year in-service (Aug. 14-19) will emphasize relationships, structure, restorative practices, MTSS supports, and engagement strategies. Summer PD reflections reinforced the importance of relationships, personalized learning, mastery-based grading, and innovation, with next steps including supporting the literacy initiative, exploring grading reforms, piloting innovative practices, and strengthening school-wide belonging and equity routines.
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VII.B. Superintendent report
Discussion:
We’ve started the process of reviewing and aligning the ELA curriculum, beginning with current materials and mapping to Nebraska standards. Compensation for classified staff overtime is also under review to ensure consistency with new work agreement from our attorney. The front lawn area may need updates for appearance and function, with costs to be determined. Transportation remains a key focus as we consider adding a fourth route to improve efficiency, along with ongoing attention to driver support, fleet maintenance, and communication. Committees such as MTSS, Culture & Environment, and Wellness continue their work. In the kitchen, we are monitoring compliance, staffing, and equipment needs. The admin team meets weekly on walkthroughs, engagement goals, PD, and consistent discipline practices to strengthen shared leadership.
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VIII. Discussion Items
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VIII.A. 2025-26 Budget update
Discussion:
Dr. Lefdal informed the board he has the budget nearly complete and is just waiting for the final numbers at the end of our fiscal year.
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VIII.B. Onboarding and mentoring report for new leadership and staff
Discussion:
Dr. Lefdal shared positive feedback on recent new hires, noting their enthusiasm, adaptability, and fresh perspectives.
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VIII.C. Community meeting
Discussion:
Dr. Lefdal is going to have a Community Meeting in early September to discuss board goals with the community. A big push will be in our attendance campaign that will begin when school starts.
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VIII.D. January 22nd Teacher work day due to hosting conference wrestling
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VIII.E. Post Graduate Survey
Discussion:
Dr. Lefdal shared the results of a post-graduate survey which had a lot of beneficial information as we look to the future.
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IX. Action Items
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IX.A. Consider, discuss, and take action to approve staff training requirements fulfilling requirements for LB 1329.
Discussion:
No action was taken.
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IX.B. Consider, discuss, and take action to approve the 2025-26 certified and classified staff handbooks.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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IX.C. Consider, discuss, and take action to approve the Homer Education Association as the exclusive bargaining agent for the district's non-supervisory certificated staff for the 2026-27 contract year.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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IX.D. Consider, discuss, and take action to approve the 2025-26 tax authority resolution.
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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IX.E. Consider, discuss, and take action to amend the adult breakfast prices to $2.85
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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IX.F. Consider, discuss, and take action to approve the policy manual updates-second reading
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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X. Next Meeting and budget hearing dates
Discussion:
The Budget Workshop will be August 28, 2025 at 7:15 a.m. The next regular meeting will be September 10, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
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XI. Adjournment
Action(s):
No Action(s) have been added to this Agenda Item.
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