By Allison Peck
The North Platte Public Schools Board of Education recognized students and staff, heard public input on the search for an interim superintendent, and approved administrative salary increases during its regular meeting Monday evening.
The meeting began with recognition of the district’s February Bulldogs of the Month, seniors Sami Yuing and Reagan Lampy. Yuing said he has participated in football, basketball and soccer during his time at North Platte High School and is a member of the National Honor Society. After graduation, he plans to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to study nursing with the goal of becoming a certified registered nurse anesthetist. Lampy told the board she has been involved in cheer, student council, Key Club, soccer and Bulldog Productions during high school. She plans to attend the University of Nebraska–Lincoln to major in child, youth and family studies and pursue a career as a pediatric occupational therapist.
Students from Buffalo Elementary’s preschool program also spoke during a student spotlight presentation, sharing what they enjoy about preschool, including making friends, painting, playing outside and spending time with their teachers.
During the foundation report, several district employees were recognized for their contributions. At McDonald Elementary, physical education teacher and coach Braden Courtney and staff member Miss Connie were honored. North Platte High School recognized counseling secretary Teresa Schumacher and teacher Bobby Cahill. Washington Elementary recognized administrative assistant Christy Morrison and resource teacher Mrs. Blackburn. Administrators praised the staff members for their dedication to students, teamwork and positive impact across the district.
Two community members addressed the board during public comment regarding the district’s ongoing search for an interim superintendent. Kyle Nichols encouraged the board to conduct the selection process transparently and include district administrators and other stakeholders in discussions. Nichols also suggested the board select an interim superintendent to stabilize the district but delay hiring a permanent superintendent until after upcoming board elections. Shrea Agarwal also urged board members to include administrators in the interview process, saying administrators work closely with staff and students and should have a voice in selecting the district’s next leader.
Board members approved the consent agenda, which included minutes from recent meetings, several teaching contracts for the 2026–27 school year, staff resignations effective later this year and financial claims and reports.
Superintendent Dr. Damon McDonald also provided a financial update to the board, noting that state aid for North Platte Public Schools has been certified at about $2 million less than the current year. McDonald said the district will begin discussing potential budget adjustments and planning earlier than usual, with those conversations expected to begin at the board’s March 26 committee of the whole meeting. The district’s current enrollment stands at 3,357 students, with a total of 3,595 students served across district programs including preschool services.
The board also received a legislative update regarding several bills under consideration in the Nebraska Legislature, including changes to teacher retirement rules, student discipline laws and funding levels for special education reimbursement.
Board members discussed several policy items during the meeting, including proposed language regarding board member electronic communications, access to district email records and procedures for accessing security camera footage. The board also discussed the possibility of creating a Board of Education handbook to help guide new members and outline board procedures.
The board approved a 1.89 percent salary increase for administrative contracts for the 2026–27 school year. Board members said the increase mirrors the percentage negotiated in teacher contracts and will be applied consistently across all administrative positions.
Later in the meeting, the board entered closed session to review applications for the interim superintendent position with assistance from the Nebraska Association of School Boards. After returning to open session, members approved a motion authorizing the search representative to contact three applicants to schedule interviews and notify the remaining candidates of the board’s decision. Interviews are scheduled for March 24.
The board also created an ad hoc committee consisting of Joanne Lungren, Emily Garrick and Mitch Wagner to assist with organizing the interview process and identifying administrators who may participate in interviews.
In other action, the board approved revisions to two curriculum-related policies that add references to Nebraska statutes. The board also tabled action on a proposed policy update related to audio and video recording in schools to allow additional time for review.
The meeting concluded with updates on upcoming budget workshops, the interim superintendent interview schedule and future board meetings.