Sell elementary schools

Kearney Public Schools may sell Riverdale and Stone elementary schools.

During Monday’s meeting, the KPS Board of Education gave administration the authority to begin selling the schools.

“I definitely think the interest is out there,” said Director of Finance Chris Nelson.

At its November meeting, the board decided to close the schools. It cited the district’s loss in finances as the main factor in closing the schools.

The district lost $3.8 million in state aid this school year and was forced to dip into its cash reserve.

Keeping Stone and Riverdale open would require the district to use more of that cash reserve.

Nelson said the district is getting the schools appraised.

“We expect that to be completed within the next one to two weeks,” he said.

Nelson said potential buyers have already expressed interest in the properties.

“I would note that, even before tonight, I have been receiving inquiries,” he said.

The board’s approval will allow the administration to market the properties.

Board President Julie Agard asked if Stone could remain in the district.

“Have we looked really carefully at the possibility of using Stone for some other purpose, at least in the short term?” Agard asked.

“I’m not sure we could identify a purpose at this point,” Nelson replied. Staff has not considered keeping the school.

“Maybe we should not be in a big hurry to sell Stone,” Agard said.

“It’s still a structurally sound building,” board member Kyle Harshbarger said.

Although the board gave staff permission to begin the process, the board can decline an offer, Nelson said.

Also Monday, the board accepted the resignation of Eldon Haas, fifth-grade teacher at Northeast Elementary School. His resignation was effective Feb. 21.