SUPERINTENDENT NOTES:SUPERINTENDENT NOTES:Each year in January the Nebraska Legislature holds forth. This year it is the 60-day session that takes up new and hold-over bills. Some of them that have higher profiles are:
LB960 proposes to reduce valuation of Ag, Horticultural, and Greenbelt land to 70% of actual value. This would reduce the revenue dollars to local entities if levy limits were to remain the same. There is a corresponding increase in state aid included in the bill but the history of state aid shows it as a political issue year to year. In the opinion of this writer, while this idea would appeal to many taxpayers, it is likely to add more rocks to the bumpy road of school district finance in this state.
LB 946 would make American Sign Language a distinct language and authorize (not mandate) schools to offer it as a foreign language.
A number of bills attempt to address the question of school district boundaries around urban areas. LB 1050 would create a study committee relating to countywide school districts.
LB 987 would create the Education Trust Fund that would provide funding for increased teacher salaries. Distribution of Fund monies is not addressed.
LB 821 would allow home school and private school students to participate in public school academic and extra-curricular programs. This one has strong feelings on both sides of the question.
LB 1066 is part of the governor's tax relief package that proposes a gradual reduction in the levy limit and an increase in state aid to compensate.
LB 898 addresses the Open Meetings Act to include more information in the minutes of a meeting dealing with the reason for the closed meeting and the action taken after reopening the meeting as it relates to the reason for a closed session.
Senator Jeanne Combs represents our District #32 at the State Capitol, PO Box 94604, Lincoln, NE 68509-4604 and her office phone number is (402) 471-2711.
YEARBOOKS
The Titan yearbook is excited to offer a DVD video supplement to the purchase of a yearbook. The DVD is being produced by the Digital Photography/Multi-Media class and TC Media Center. We are the first school in the southeast NE area to offer a DVD video supplement! The supplement will include the senior video, voice clips, and live action events capturing this school year that will include homecoming, sports, prom, and graduation among others. The DVD can be purchased for $7.00, but it is only available with the purchase of a yearbook, not sold separately, and must be ordered by March 14, 2006, the night of Parent Teacher Conferences.
The 2005-2006 yearbooks will be on
sale in the high school office for $40.00 starting Monday, Jan. 16 through February 9, 2006. After this time, they will cost $45.00. DVD supplements are an additional $7.00. Yearbooks and DVD video supplements will available in the Fall. Checks can be made out to Thayer Central. Get your 2005-2006 Yearbook and DVD video supplement today!!
GUIDANCE/COUNSELOR NEWS
Kathy Brzon
2005-2006 Registration
It is time to start thinking about the next school year and the classes for next year. Students will be receiving information about registering for classes during the month of February and March. Students should review the information with their parents and set their standards high when planning the courses they want in the future. Freshman, Sophomores and Juniors have previously made out a 4 year plan that can be used as a guide. These will be handed out with their registration materials. A parent signature is required on the registration form.
Eleventh and twelfth grade students may want to consider taking college credit courses while still in high school. This is a good way to get a head start on college. There are several courses offered through distance learning and on-line. As always, students and parents are welcome to visit with Mrs. Brzon about registration or any other concerns.
ACT Deadlines
Juniors need to be thinking about taking the ACT as well as sophomores. The next test date is April 8th. The registration deadline is March 3rd. The ACT can be taken on June 10th. Registration deadline is May 5th. Students may pick up registration packets in the counselor's office or they can register on-line at www.act.org.
College Reps Visit TCCS
Representatives of many different colleges come to the school to visit with students. These visits are the first step in making post-secondary plans. Students should start visiting with college reps during their junior year. Visiting with many college reps can help make choosing a college less difficult.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) Filing
A representative from Education Quest will be at Thayer Central High School on February 22nd to assist in filing the FAFSA. They will be here between the hours of 9 am – 7 pm.
If you are interested in getting assistance, please call Mrs. Brzon to set up an appointment.
Applications are available in the counselor's office or online at
TCCS Web Site
Continue to check the Thayer Central web site for up-to-date scholarship and college information.
Power School for Parents
There have been some questions concerning Power School for Parents. Here are some tips that should help.
To view grades from Q1, Q2 or S1 of current school year: click on Grades History To get individual assignments: click on the highlighted grade.
To e-mail a teacher: click on the teacher's name.
If you have questions concerning Power School for Parents, contact Mrs. Brzon.
HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL:
Tom Kiburz
January was a busy month for all of us here at school. The Teammates Program had its kickoff celebration on January 17th. I would like to thank all of you that have agreed to mentor a young person here at school.
We had over 80 students in grades 7-12 that qualified for our "Top Titans" drawing on January 20th. Prizes were awarded to students for their grades and attendance first semester. I want to congratulate our students on their performance first semester and thank the area businesses once again for their generosity in helping provide prizes.
The 8th and 11th graders will be taking the Nebraska Statewide Writing Assessment this
month. I want to wish all of them good luck on the test. I know their teachers have been working hard to prepare them for it.
There will be no school for students on February 10th. Thayer Central will be hosting district wrestling on that date. Mrs. Brzon and I spoke to sophomores and juniors in mid-January about opportunities for them to receive college credit next year. We have numerous opportunities available to students through distance learning and on-line classes. Students have to pay for these classes, but they are very affordable and a great way for students to get a head start on college without you having to pay for room and board. If you would like more information, please contact Mrs. Brzon or myself. We have a number of students taking advantage of this opportunity this year and I would like to see this number increased.
I will write about this more as the date gets nearer, but wanted to let parents know that we will be having an academic awards night on
Monday, May 8th. Teachers and activity sponsors will be recognizing students for their hard work on this night. This will not take the place of the athletic banquet. It is a time set aside to honor students for their performance in the classroom. I just wanted to let you know about it now so you can reserve that date on your calendars.
This is a busy time of year here at school. It seems there is an activity of some sort every night in January and February. The stakes are getting higher in our winter activities. I want to wish our athletes the best of luck as they attempt to make it to Lincoln and Omaha.
TRUCKER BUDDY PROGRAM
Since the beginning of the school year, Thayer Central 8th grade students in Mrs. Karen Boatright's class have been corresponding on a monthly basis with Mark Prout, owner and freight operations manager of Full Stride Transportation in Littleton, CO as part of the Trucker Buddy International, Inc. program. The purpose of this unique pen pal program is to provide students with another audience for their writing as well as learn about the truck driving industry and career field. It also ties in with the state writing standards.
On Friday, January 6, students were able to meet Mark and driver Jason as well as take a mini-tour two of the trucks. Chelsea Baden said, "What I liked best about Mark's visit was the trucks and how they looked inside because I've never been in one before."
During the visit, students said they learned the following:
Kelsey Loontjer, "Without truck drivers we wouldn't have a lot of things."
Kory Klover, "In your truck you can put a PS2, TV, couch, refrigerator, and satellite radio. Also that there is a 'no zone' where the truck driver can't see you from behind or to the sides of the rig."
John Ayala, "I learned not to drive in the 'no zones.'"
Mike Hawkins, "I learned they have a log that they have to write in every day."
In regards to being a part of the program, students said the following:
Courtney Yoachim, "I think the Trucker Buddy program is a good way to get students to realize what trucking is all about."
Seth Wiedel, "I think the Trucker Buddy program is good. It helps you with writing skills."
Dana Watkins, "I think the Trucker Buddy program is fun and we get to learn about a career option."
THANKS FROM MUSIC BOOSTERS
Thanks Thayer Central Community. You helped us raise over $1200 by participating in The Waffleman event and the raffle of donated afghans. We are closing in on our final payment for the new high school choir robes. Thanks, also, for the volunteer hours. Many of you assisted The Waffleman with loading, setting up, mixing, serving, and wiping tables. We couldn't have done it without you. Congratulate
yourselves and each other for a job well done!
Fundraising continues so that we can complete the choir robe project. Hintz's Cheese and Crafts continues to carry Music Booster fundraising merchandise without commission. There you may purchase pillows made from the recycled Hebron Bear band uniforms. In addition, they carry the updated music department cookbooks and Titan wind spinners. These wind spinners are football shaped spirals which spin in the breeze, clearly displaying their black and gold TITANS. You may also purchase the wind spinners at the Sport Shack. Continued thanks to Hintz's Cheese and Crafts and The Sport Shack! We would again like to remind you of the levels of giving in support of the choir robe purchase. While we are GRATEFUL FOR GIFTS OF ANY AMOUNT, we want to offer patrons the opportunity to "purchase shares" of a choir robe. Gifts of $25 - $74 will be recognized as WHITE donors. Gifts of $75 - $149 will be recognized as BLACK donors. And donors who purchase at least one choir robe with a donation of $150 or more will be recognized as GOLD donors. Donations may be made at Thayer County Bank, Chester State Bank, and the high school office. Donations may also be mailed to Jan Hatfield, Music Boosters Treasurer, RR 1, Box 70, Belvidere, Nebraska, 68315. At the conclusion of our choir robe fundraising, all donors will be recognized on a plaque for their support of Thayer Central's vocal music program.
Music Boosters meets again on Monday, February 6 at 6:30 pm in the band room. Please join us.
Elementary Principal Notes:
Kurk Wiedel
TC Elementary Mission
"Thayer Central Elementary School, with the support of the community, nurtures the social, academic, physical, and emotional development of children."
Elementary Carnival – February 24th
The entire family is invited to attend the annual Elementary School Carnival on Friday, F
ebruary 24 from 6:30 – 8:30. This should be a fun-filled evening enjoyed by all members of the family. Cakewalks, bingo, free throw shooting contest, and a fish pond are only a few of the exciting games that everyone will be sure to enjoy. Tickets will go on sale a week before the carnival at both elementary buildings. Check your child's Friday Folder for more details.
As a special treat this year, former Nebraska football player and Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch will be on hand to sign autographs from 6:30 – 7:30. Eric is the owner of Crouch Miracle Recreation Playground Equipment where we bought the primary structure. Come meet Eric and enjoy in an exciting night.
Elementary Parent Involvement Group
The Thayer Central Elementary Parent Involvement Group continues to meet each month before the regularly scheduled TC Board of Education Meeting at 6:30 pm in the Intermediate Media Center. All parents and patrons are encouraged to attend.
This group continues to be a leader in the projects and activities that are offered for the elementary families and students. This year the group has helped sponsor the Family Night events, raised funds for the playground equipment, and assisted in many different areas that help to support our mission. I highly encourage all elementary-aged parents to get involved in this outstanding organization.
Thayer Central After School Program / Multiple Choices Mentoring Program
The Thayer Central After School Program (TCASP) continues to offer an affordable, accessible childcare alternative for students in grades K – 5. TCASP is a place where children can improve their learning skills, develop their creative abilities, and build social skills while taking part in planned activities. Currently, the TCASP is nearing capacity. However, there are still a few open spots. TCASP might be the perfect situation for your child. Contact the Intermediate Office at 768-7287 for more information on the program.
This year, we were awarded a substantial grant from the Department of Education to start a mentoring program for students in grades 4 – 8. Multiple Choices was created to help in some of the same ways that the After School Program does, except with students in the older grades. Since the announcement of the grant, staff has been hired and plans are well underway to implementing the program. One big step that we took was joining the TeamMates Mentoring Program, founded by Tom and Nancy Osborne. We hope that the kick-off that was held in January will help make more people aware of the important need that students of all ages have in learning from a mentor. You could be an adult that makes a difference in the life of a child. Consider being a mentor for a student today.
MARIE PEITHMAN POLISHED APPLE AWARD
The Marie Peithman Polished Apple Award established in 2002 by her husband, Ernest Peithman, and their children will be awarded to a Thayer Central teacher who exemplifies the qualities established by Marie Peithman during her 38 years in the profession. These qualities are: excellence in teaching, a true love and dedication to the teaching profession, high personal standards, and pride and knowledge exhibited by his or her students for the subject(s) taught.
The teacher receiving the Polished Apple Award will be the recipient of $250, to be added to his/her school "activity" account, and used during the next calendar school year. Along with the award, the honoree will receive their own personal award and have their name imprinted on the "Polished Apple" plaque displayed at the school.
Any person interested in nominating a teacher for the award may pick up a brochure at the high school office or the Thayer County Bank. Nominations must be postmarked or hand-delivered no later than Friday, March 3rd, 2006.
Last year's award was presented to Mrs. Nancy Kunkel by Loren Peithmann at the Spring Vocal Concert. Mrs. Kunkel was nominated for her love of teaching, continuing to further her education, her love and caring for children, and her community involvement. Her nominee felt Nancy would have all the qualities to achieve this award.
First Semester Milk Sales at Thayer Central
Thayer Central's new milk vending machine has continued to be a popular choice among students who wish for a healthy drink option. The vending machine was partially purchased through grants and donations from the following organizations: Nebraska Diary Council, Norris Public Power Operation Round-Up, Thayer Central Junior High Student Council, and the Thayer Central Booster Club.
January 9, 2006
The regular meeting of the Board of Education was called to order by President Tipton on Monday, January 9, 2006, at 7:31 p.m. at the Thayer Central High School Media Center pursuant to law and notice posted at the school, Hebron & Chester post offices, Thayer County Bank and the State Bank of Chester. All proceedings hereafter shown were taken while convened meeting was open to the public. Present on roll call: Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford and Easton. Also present: Supt. Dan Jantzen, Principals Tom Kiburz and Kurk Wiedel; and Nancy Elting. Visitors: Jim McKenzie, Betty Meyer, Lary Leigh Rocole.
Motion by Mumm, seconded by Prellwitz, to open the meeting at 7:31 p.m. On roll call: Yeas: Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford and Easton. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Nominations for President:
Tipton nominated by Mumm.
Prellwitz nominated by Easton.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Mumford, that nominations cease. On roll call: Yeas: Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford and Easton. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Tom Tipton was re-elected president.
Nominations for Vice President:
Prellwitz nominated by Mumm.
Mumm nominated by Kenning.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Kenning, that nominations cease. On roll call: Yeas: Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford and Easton. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Mike Prellwitz was re-elected vice president.
Nominations for Secretary:
Easton nominated by Prellwitz.
Mumm nominated by Kenning.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Easton, that nominations cease. On roll call: Yeas: Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford and Easton. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Harriet Easton was re-elected secretary.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Mumm, to approve the following committees for 2006:
Americanism/Curriculum & Instruction: Mumford & Easton
Personnel & Community Relations: Mumm, Easton and Mumford
Handbook and Policy Review: Mumm, Easton and Mumford
Negotiations: Kenning, Tipton and Prellwitz
Facilities & Transportation: Mumm and Kenning
Technology & Equipment: Tipton & Prellwitz
On roll call: Yeas: Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford, Easton and Kenning. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Motion by Kenning, seconded by Prellwitz, to approve the following designations: Acting Board Clerk – Nancy Elting; Newspaper of Record – Hebron Journal Register; District Attorney – Harding, Schultz & Downs (Kelly Baker/Karen Haase)
Funds Depository – Thayer County Bank; Funds Auditor: Mierau & Co.; State Organization Membership – NASB; Acting Signatory for routine school business, forms, reports and agreements/contracts, Service Providers, ESU, State and Federal forms – Superintendent of Schools. On roll call: Yeas: Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford, Easton, Kenning and Mumm. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Motion by Mumford, seconded by Mumm, to approve the minutes of the December 14, 2005, special meeting and the December 19, 2005, regular meeting as written. On roll call: Yeas: Tipton, Mumford, Easton, Kenning, and Mumm. Abstained: Prellwitz. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Motion by Easton, seconded by Prellwitz, to approve the treasurers report. On roll call: Yeas: Mumford, Easton, Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz and Tipton. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Easton recommended that the treasurer's report be displayed in the teachers work rooms.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Mumm, to approve the monthly claims and payroll. On roll call: Yeas: Easton, Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton and Mumford. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Jim McKenzie addressed the Board requesting that the agenda be copied on the back of the school board meeting notices.
Lary Rocole addressed the Board requesting that the school help sponsor her way to the America's Homecoming Queen contest in Des Moines, Iowa. No action was taken.
Curt Mumm discussed the possibility of using the Chester gym for junior high practices.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Tipton, to approve the agenda adding Chester gym issue and student request. On roll call: Yeas: Easton, Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton and Mumford. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Mr. Kiburz and Mr. Wiedel reported to the Board on activities taking place at school.
Mr. Jantzen informed the Board that Brad Rose from Mid West eServices, Inc. was in Chester to take pictures and begin to set up the eAd for the school.
Mr. Jantzen informed the Board once again that for the 2006 election, incumbents filing deadline is February 15th and all other candidates shall file for office by March 1st.
Mr. Jantzen advised the Board that A-Lert Roofing repairmen worked on the leaks that were identified by TC staff before school was dismissed in December.
Mr. Jantzen informed the Board that the NASB Legislative Issues Conference will be in Lincoln on February 26th and 27th.
Policy File: 705.02 (Use of District Facilities), fourth paragraph revisions were discussed.
Motion by Kenning, seconded by Mumm, to approve Chamber of Commerce dues for 2006. On roll call: Yeas: Kenning, Mumm, Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford and Easton. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Curt Mumm discussed with the Board the possibility of allowing the junior high basketball team to practice at the Chester gym.
Motion by Prellwitz, to allow the junior high basketball team to practice at the Chester gym when needed. On roll call: Yeas: Prellwitz, Nays: Tipton, Mumford, Easton and Kenning. Abstained: Mumm. Motion failed.
Motion by Easton, seconded by Prellwitz, to purchase new basketball goals for the primary school gym so it can be used for practices. On roll call: Yeas: Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford, Easton, Kenning and Mumm. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Mumford, to go into executive session at 9:26 p.m. to discuss student request. On roll call: Yeas: Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford, Easton, Kenning and Mumm. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Motion by Prellwitz, seconded by Mumford, to come out of executive session at 9:49 p.m. On roll call: Yeas: Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford, Easton, Kenning and Mumm. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Mot
ion by Mumm, seconded by Kenning, to adjourn the meeting at 9:53 p.m. On roll call: Yeas: Prellwitz, Tipton, Mumford, Easton, Kenning and Mumm. Nays: None. Motion carried.