JB Atkins and Mary Shaw attended their last School Board meeting as Broken Bow Board of Education members on December 16. Tom Osmond, the Board’s president, presented them with plaques of appreciation for their eight years of service. Osmond personally thanked Mary and JB for their dedication while they served. Osmond smiled and said he may still call them for advice if needed.
Mary Shaw admitted there were some rough times initially. She said, ” I’m known as the quiet one,” but I believe I spoke up when I needed to. It’s been quite the experience. She highlighted how things have improved on the Board and is now looking forward to big things ahead with her child care business.
Atkins described the current Board as “peaceful” for the past few years, unlike when he first joined the Board. Early into his first term, he was the subject of a recall election. At that time, Atkins felt that the school board’s plans to cut the budget were at the heart of the recall, which did not succeed. Atkins described that period as “a time of war.”
Atkins said he leaves the Board at rest, knowing it all came together. He noted the test scores are up, and the budget is lower. We didn’t lose football or music, we stayed within the budget and passed the bond. We made the right changes and ended up in a good spot.
He advises the new board members to monitor cost per pupil and state funding for public schools. Atkins believes the more state funding you accept, the more liable you are to the state. Atkins urged the board members to maintain local control. The retired Board member said the day may come when the state considers cost per pupil and mandates one central school in Custer County.
JD White and Colby Fisher will fill the seats vacated by Atkins and Shaw. Amy Staples was re-elected to her seat. Their first meeting will be a work session at the Broken Bow Library at noon on January 6, 2025. The regular monthly meeting will follow on January 20 at 6 p.m.
