VALENTINE, Neb. - During Wednesday night’s meeting, the Valentine School Board accepted the resignations of three certified staff members and one non-certified employee who’s made a lasting impact on the district.

“Usually we don’t vote on non-certified staff resignations, but we want to honor everything she’s done,” said Superintendent Mike Halley, referring to longtime employee Kim Jeffers.

Halley says Jeffers has worked for the district for 22 years. As the Elementary School Administrative Assistant, Jeffers is often the first person parents see or talk to when they call.

“Anytime we have an employee here for 22 years we value that,” said Halley.

“She has big shoes to fill,” said School Board Member Shane Kime.

Along with Jeffers, the board also accepted the resignations of two rural school employees — Ki Kuhre at Simeon School and Trinity Szakcics at Cutcomb Lake — and special education teacher Julia Burdick.

The board also handled several other agenda items, including approving non-certified staff wages for the 2025-2026 school year. Halley shared updates on how some federal policies are affecting the district, including changes to the school nutrition reimbursement and possible price hikes on Chromebooks due to tariffs.

“I’m told that if we’re not locked in by the end of the day tomorrow, these prices will likely double,” Halley said.

To avoid the potential jump, the board approved a Chromebook lease from Bluum for up to $17,488.85 per year for four years.