March 9, 2026 at 6:00 PM - Regular Board of Education Meeting

Jesse Neugebauer presented to the board regarding initiatives at Lincoln Elementary. He began by explaining that each year since becoming principal, he and his staff have implemented an annual theme for the school. His first year’s theme was "Lincoln Legacy," followed by "Lincoln Gives." This year, the staff wanted to do something especially meaningful and selected the theme "Level Up Lincoln."

Mr. Neugebauer shared that the school has demonstrated this theme in many ways, including earning an "Excellent" rating from the state, which he noted is a significant testament to the strong work being done by staff and students at Lincoln Elementary.

Mr. Neugebauer then highlighted a district elementary program housed at Lincoln Elementary called B.A.R.K.S. (Building Alternative Routes for Kids’ Success). This behavior support program replaced the previous program known as D.A.W.G.S. He explained that when the decision was made to bring the program back, it was important that it be thoughtfully redesigned and improved.

Brenda Stone, School Psychologist, explained how student placement in the program is determined. Multiple teams, including the Student Assistance Team (SAT) and Child Intervention Team (CIP), collaborate to determine whether B.A.R.K.S. is an appropriate placement for a student. These teams utilize research-based strategies and develop behavior intervention plans prior to placement. The program’s goal is to help students build behavior management and academic skills within a smaller, more structured environment.

Madi Bates, B.A.R.K.S. classroom teacher, described the daily structure of the classroom. She emphasized the critical role of the paraprofessionals in supporting students and helping set a positive tone in the classroom. Ms. Bates explained that many students enter the program with missing skills, and the goal is to help them develop those skills so they can successfully transition back to the general education classroom. Students utilize daily tracking sheets, and their progress is documented throughout the day. The program includes several phases: students enter at the Silver level and can progress to Gold and then Platinum. At the Gold level, students may spend part of their day in their homeroom classroom before returning to the B.A.R.K.S. classroom. At the Platinum level, students earn increased privileges and spend the majority of their day in their homeroom classroom, eventually transitioning fully out of the program.

Naomi Morales, LMHP, spoke about the importance of providing students with a strong support system. She emphasized that it is critical for students to feel valued and to know that the adults in their lives have not given up on them. Ms. Morales noted that the success of the program is the result of collaboration among many staff members working together to support both students and teachers.

John Maser presented to the Board. He reported that, to date, the district has received three resignations at the high school and three at the middle school, with no retirements. He also shared that the district is exploring the addition of another preschool classroom at Lincoln Elementary.

John noted that the recent Preschool and Kindergarten Expo was a great success, with 13 vendors participating and more than 150 families in attendance. He also provided an update on the High Ability Learners (HAL) program and discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen and improve the program.

Additionally, he reported that the district is in the final stages of selecting and purchasing a new science curriculum that will be used for the next seven years. The purchase is expected to come in under budget.

Matt Kautz presented to the Board. He reported that the district recently received a lighting presentation from Voss Lighting and noted that lighting updates will be needed throughout the district. The Board will also be voting on the purchase of a new camera system to enhance district security.

He also provided a facilities update on the auditorium project, noting that some modifications to the sound booth will be required, but overall progress is moving forward. He also reported that the district will be re-bidding for the track project, adding more flexibility to the completion timeline to encourage bids. He remains hopeful the project can be completed in time for the 2027 track season.

Finally, he gave an update regarding the middle school gym floor, which was installed improperly. The district is currently in discussions with insurance regarding replacement. He also shared that air quality testing is being conducted in the building.

Dear Members of the Board,

Over the past five years, I have been honored to help cultivate a district defined by connection, purpose, and a shared commitment to excellence. Together, we have worked to build a system where every classroom is a place of meaningful learning—an ecosystem in which students and staff can truly flourish.

Last week, during an 80-minute lesson in Mrs. Cline’s classroom, I was reminded again of why this work matters. Her ability to spark deep thinking and genuine engagement reflects the very best of Gering Public Schools. Experiences like that have fueled my passion and affirmed the importance of the systems we have built—systems of instruction, operations, and communication that do not emerge overnight, but through steady, intentional effort.

In many ways, the challenges of leadership resemble a modern day "Midsummer Night’s Dream," where communication, power, and emotion shape the complexities we navigate—from funding to access to equity. Yet our progress has always come from the same source: strong relationships and the collective belief that we can create extraordinary educational opportunities for every student.

I am profoundly grateful to the Board, my administrative team, our teachers, and our staff. Because of your dedication, the momentum we have created will continue long after my tenure. Together, we have built something that will endure.

With deep respect and appreciation, I am submitting my resignation as Superintendent effective at the conclusion of the 2026-27 school year. This decision comes with confidence that the work, the vision, and the spirit of this district will continue to flourish.

Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving Gering Public Schools and for giving me the opportunity to show the state of Nebraska just how extraordinary this district truly is.

Sincerely,
Nicole Regan