Board accepts resignation of member Justin Thompson and outlines application timeline to fill vacancy
Summary
Trustees accepted the resignation of board member Justin Thompson after he moved outside his precinct and approved a timeline that opens applications Jan. 2 with interviews and a special meeting planned Jan. 8 to appoint a replacement.
The North Platte Public Schools board accepted the resignation of board member Justin Thompson on Dec. 8 after Superintendent Dr. Rhodes informed the board that Thompson had moved outside his precinct and therefore was required by state statute to vacate the seat.
Dr. Rhodes walked trustees through a proposed timeline for filling the vacancy: the district will advertise the opening and accept letters of interest and applications by Jan. 2, 2026; compiled application packets will be provided to the board by Jan. 5; and a special public meeting for interviews and appointment is planned for Jan. 8 at 5:30 p.m. in the boardroom.
Board members discussed logistics including public notice language, ward maps on the district website, question selection for applicants (some questions will be provided in advance and some asked in person) and statutory deadlines (the board has 45 days to fill the seat). Trustees emphasized fair process concerns such as giving applicants an opportunity to answer initial questions in writing and allowing in‑person follow‑up during interviews.
A motion to accept the resignation was moved and seconded and passed on a roll‑call vote; minutes record at least one 'nay' during the roll call. The superintendent will publish application materials and a fillable form on the district website and coordinate collection and distribution to trustees ahead of the Jan. 8 special meeting.
