BROKEN BOW—Following last week’s media days press conference regarding the Broken Bow Public School bond project, the school board met for a work session on Monday, October 4. The proposed $29.9 million bond would lead to work at the middle and high school in terms of new construction, renovation, and demolition.
On Monday afternoon board members shared feedback they have received on the proposed project and also discussed the possibility of breaking down the expenses of the project on a cost per month basis for taxpayers.
The school board unanimously voted on September 13 to put the decision of the $29.9 million bond in the hands of voters in an election scheduled for Tuesday, November 9.
Director of Teaching and Learning Trent Benjamin spoke before the board regarding the newly implemented Branching Minds system—“Teachers and learning scientists working together to bridge research and practice, and develop innovative intervention management software technology (RTI / MTSS) (response to intervention/multi-tiered system of support).”
The software technology manages and analyzes data of students’ academic and behavioral growth and opportunities. Mr. Benjamin explained that the system tracks MAP testing results, projected ACT scores, behaviors, and national percentile comparisons, among others in the multi-tiered system.
He said reading is the top concern for Broken Bow students and that by using data, the district can help students grow and present opportunities for the future whether that is a four-year college or something different.
“We’re dream makers, not dream crushers,” Mr. Benjamin said adding that using the data is another way to show the district’s commitment to children, parents, and teachers.
Also during Monday’s work session, the board discussed COVID-19 and the use of masks. Masks are currently optional across the district. The board said it would look into the situation further if the number of cases significantly increases.
The board will also be looking at drug testing policies before the next work session to potentially implement new testing practices for next school year after thoroughly looking at policies and discussing with medical experts.
The Broken Bow School board will meet on Monday, October 18 at 8:30 p.m.
Additional information on the middle/high school bond project is available at BuildBowTogether.com.
Community Tour
Middle School Auditorium
Tuesday, October 19
Tour: 5 PM
Community Tour/Meeting
Middle School Auditorium
Wednesday, October 27
Tour: 6 PM; Meeting 7 PM
Community Tour/ Meeting
Middle School Auditorium
Monday, November 1
Tour: 5:30 PM; Meeting (Cobblestone Hotel): 7 PM
