submitted by Brett Mauler - Mullen Elementary Principal, written by Mullen Public Schools staff members
This fall, the Mullen Public Schools staff developed a 10-question CIP parent survey, gathering feedback from families across the district.
CIP stands for Continuous Improvement Process, where schools analyze performance data, set goals, implement changes and evaluate results. This process is required by Nebraska Rule 10 with accountability through the Nebraska Department of Education, and each district completes a formal review every five years. We are currently in the 2023–2028 CIP cycle.
At Mullen Public Schools, we are committed to continually improving our district for students, staff and families. Our CIP Leadership Team meets four to six times a year and includes two elementary teachers, three administrators, one Pre-K representative, one guidance counselor, one Title teacher, one school board member and three junior high/high school teachers.
In addition, every full-time staff member and every school board member participates in one of our six CIP committees: Communication; Health and Wellness; Professional Development and Growth; Safety, Security and Budget; MTSS/Assessment; Curriculum.
Each committee meets four times annually to work toward district goals and identify areas for improvement. Every committee contributed one question to the parent survey, and the Leadership Team added a few more to create the final 10-question format.
After reviewing the survey results, the CIP committees identified ways to better connect with and inform the entire community.
Through this article, we will summarize each survey question.
1. The school regularly communicates effectively with all patrons using multiple media platforms.
87.8% agreed, 10.8% needs improvement, 1% disagreed
The CIP communication team wrote the following:
The main concern was that not all information could be found on the Bronco app. We propose a review of how to utilize the Bronco app to its fullest potential. Some tools that can be helpful for locating information would be the Calendar, which can be found under the Menu. Daily information can be found in the Daily Bulletin, which appears on the Live Feed. Further information, such as contacting staff, lunch menu, or board agendas, can be found under the menu option. Currently the push notifications and text messaging are reserved for more urgent matters.
Other options for communications can be found on the school website (mullenpublicschools.org), the monthly newsletter, Friday Bulletin, Facebook, Hudl, SportsYou app, the Hooker County Tribune, or by calling the schools for any questions - 308-546-2223 high school or 308-546-2292 elementary.
2. The school accommodates your child’s physical health and well-being.
95.9% strongly agreed or agreed, 4.1% needs improvement
The CIP Health and Wellness Committee wrote the following:
Mullen Public Schools is committed to promoting the health and well-being of every student. We take great pride in supporting our students not only academically, but also through initiatives that enhance their physical and emotional health.
Our dedicated kitchen staff works each day to prepare nutritious breakfasts and lunches, ensuring our students have the fuel they need to succeed.
This year April Coetzee, Kitchen Director, successfully applied for and received the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program (FFVP) Grant.
Mullen Public Schools is one of only 167 elementary schools across Nebraska selected to participate in this program, which collectively benefits approximately 51,000 students statewide.
Thanks to this grant, our students now enjoy a free serving of fresh fruits or vegetables twice a week, served outside of regular breakfast and lunch times. This not only introduces them to a variety of healthy foods but also adds a fun and nutritious boost to their day.
Students PK-12 have a variety of team and individual physical activities, indoor and out, throughout the year. Grades K-9 have required PE time during the day. Our high school also offers strength training and lifetime fitness classes. Tyler Gracey offers weights at 6:00 a.m. for all middle and high school students interested in a workout prior to the school day.
In addition to supporting physical health, we also prioritize creating a positive school culture. Our committee works each year to develop new ideas and initiatives that promote well-being for both students and staff. One of our popular initiatives has been student “shout-outs,” which celebrate positive behavior and achievements, helping to build a supportive and encouraging school environment.
We believe that a healthy school culture starts at the top. By focusing on the well-being of our teachers and staff, we create a positive atmosphere that naturally extends to our students. When our teachers feel supported and appreciated, it reflects in the classroom, and our students thrive.
We are proud to cultivate a learning environment where health, happiness, and academic success go hand in hand.
3. Mullen Public School teachers are qualified and regularly participate in training and professional development throughout the school year.
97.3% strongly agreed or agreed, 2.7% needs improvement
The CIP Professional Development and Growth Committee shared:
Professional development or continuing education credits are required to maintain a teaching credential in Nebraska. The Nebraska Department of Education requires teachers to complete six semester credit hours or professional development every five years.
Mullen Public Schools goes above and beyond for teachers ongoing learning and takes educator growth very seriously. Currently, 67% of our certified teachers hold advanced degrees (master’s or +36 credit hours), and an additional 16% have completed further collegiate coursework toward advanced degrees.
Professional development, however, extends far beyond traditional college credits. Our staff regularly participates in meetings, conferences, workshops, job shadows, and other learning opportunities to continually refine their skills and improve their practice.
Each teacher maintains an annual professional development profile. We document all training and learning activities completed by our staff. As part of the summative evaluation process, principals meet individually with teachers to review and ensure their profiles are complete.
In recent years, MPS has successfully hired a number of Transition Teachers - individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in a content area such as science, business, agriculture, or math, and then pursue a master’s-level certification to teach in that subject.
The statewide teaching shortage, particularly in rural communities and especially post-COVID, has made it challenging to find high-quality applicants. The transition pathway has helped our district fill essential teaching roles with outstanding educators who entered the profession through non-traditional routes.
Mullen Public Schools is committed to hiring and retaining high-quality teachers who want to live in Mullen, raise families here and serve our district long-term.
It is worth noting that Sarah Hardin, the 2026 Nebraska Teacher of the Year, began her career as a transition teacher right here at Mullen Public Schools.
4. Your student(s) are safe at Mullen Public Schools.
98.6% strongly agreed or agreed, 1.4% needs improvement
The CIP Safety, Security, and Budget Committee wrote the following:
Mullen Public Schools treats safety and security as a top priority.
The MPS door system is always on lockdown, and all visitors must buzz a button to gain access to the buildings. MPS provides a variety of drills that are routinely done, such as fire drills, evacuation drills and tornado drills for students and staff. A number of staff members hold active EMT licenses. Portable radios are positioned in both buildings to provide direct communication with Emergency Dispatch, Law Enforcement and EMS/Fire personnel in the event of an emergency. The Mullen Volunteer Fire Department completes an annual fire safety day with all MPS PK-5 students. MPS operates both internal and external camera systems at the buildings to record footage both inside and outside of the buildings. MPS completes background checks on all school employees and school volunteers. All MPS staff complete annual safety and security training through Safe Schools Vector Solutions, provided by the insurance company ALICAP.
Mullen Public Schools is consistently looking to improve any area of concern with student safety and security.
5. The curriculum provided at Mullen Public Schools meets your child’s educational needs.
95.9% of parents strongly agreed or agreed, 4.1% needs improvement
The CIP Curriculum Committee wrote the following:
Mullen Public Schools takes great pride in the strong curriculum and broad range of opportunities we offer our students. Thanks to a dedicated staff and a solid educational foundation, we are able to provide programs and classes that many districts our size simply cannot.
At the same time, the number of students we serve naturally influences the variety of courses we are able to offer. State-mandated classes must come first, which can limit elective options until students reach their junior and senior years. Even so, we are continually exploring ways to expand, innovate and strengthen our programs within the realities of staffing, resources and facilities.
While we would love to freely add new positions or courses, responsible planning requires us to carefully consider many factors. Our commitment remains constant: to do what is best for students - now and as we plan for the future.
6. You understand the MAP/NSCAS/FastBridge testing process and the reporting of your child(ren)’s test results.
82.5% strongly agreed or agreed, 14.9% needs improvement, 2.6% disagreed
The CIP MTSS/Assessment Committee wrote the following:
The district uses several assessments throughout the year to measure student progress and growth.
The MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) test is given in Reading and Math to grades K–2 to help track academic growth and guide instruction. Grades 9-11 take the MAP test in Reading, Language, Science and Math. Grades 6 & 7 also take the MAP Science test. These tests are given in the fall and spring of each school year.
The NSCAS (Nebraska Student-Centered Assessment System) is the state required assessment for students in grades 3–8 in Reading and Math. Grades 4th and 8th also take the Science test. These are given only in the spring. (The 3-8 students take MAP tests in the fall.)
The state also requires the ACT (Nebraska version) for all 11th graders to be taken in the spring.
Fastbridge testing is used to screen K-3 students three times a year in Reading to measure growth. Grades K-1 also take the Math screener. In addition, Fastbridge is used to monitor progress for Tier 2 and 3 students receiving interventions.
Teachers use these assessments to better understand each student’s strengths and areas for growth. The results help guide instruction, ensuring lessons are targeted to meet students’ individual needs. For example, MAP and FastBridge data show how students are progressing over time, allowing teachers to adjust small-group instruction or provide additional support when needed. NSCAS and the Nebraska ACT give teachers and schools information about how students are performing compared to state expectations. Altogether, these assessments help teachers make informed decisions, set learning goals and provide the right level of challenge and support to help every student grow.
We will be adding a new Assessment Information tab to our school website to help families easily access details about the different tests students take throughout the year. This tab will include clear explanations of each assessment - such as MAP, NSCAS, FastBridge and the Nebraska ACT - along with which grade levels take them and how teachers use the results to support learning. The goal is to make the information simple to navigate and understand, so parents can stay informed about how these assessments help guide instruction and measure student growth.
7. This school has quality programs, classes, and opportunities for your child’s gifts or special needs.
91.9% of parents strongly agreed or agreed, 8.1% needs improvement
Mr. Mauler’s response:
Mullen Public Schools is committed to meeting the learning needs of every child, no matter where they are on their educational journey. We believe that all students deserve opportunities that recognize their strengths and support their areas of need.
Our High Ability Learners (HAL) program continues to grow, with students identified through state assessment data.
We are excited to offer dedicated HAL days for elementary and middle school that bring together our students, and students from surrounding schools, to collaborate and engage in enriching learning activities. These opportunities allow our HAL students to challenge themselves, while connecting with peers who share similar interests and talents.
We have provided trips to Becton Dickinson, Adams Land and Cattle, Mid Plains Community College with an emphasis on trades, and Case IH. Students had the opportunity to learn about different careers, professions and engineering.
We also have hosted two HAL days here in Mullen with Lou Cox-Fornander over the last eight months and will be doing another one in March.
For students who need additional support, Mullen Public Schools provides a strong system of interventions and individualized care. We are fortunate to have three certified Special Education teachers who deliver specialized instruction and services. We have highly dedicated paraprofessionals who work with students every day.
This level of support is a defining strength of our school. I would go out on a limb and say our special education opportunities that we can provide students would be in the 99th percentile of Nebraska Education. We can provide better opportunities and resources than most schools can our size due to our amazing staff, resources and facilities.
Compared to larger districts, Mullen’s size allows us to know each student personally and respond quickly when support is needed. Students who might otherwise slip through the cracks in a bigger setting receive the attention, encouragement and resources necessary to thrive.
Mullen High School is committed to nurturing each student’s unique gifts by providing a wide range of high-quality academic opportunities tailored to the student interests and future goals. One of the ways we support advanced learners is through our upper-level distinction courses, available to juniors and seniors who are ready for increased academic challenge. We currently offer 19 distinction-level courses across multiple disciplines - from Advanced Biology to Agricultural Leadership, just for example.
In addition to distinction courses, Mullen High School continues to expand opportunities for students to earn college credit while still in high school. This year, we significantly increased our dual credit offerings taught directly by our own qualified staff, allowing students to experience college-level expectations in our own classrooms. Our dual credit courses now include classes in Accounting, Advanced Biology, Chemistry, English, Psychology and Spanish. Juniors and seniors also have the ability to take courses through Mid-Plains Community College.
These programs not only challenge students academically but also help them build confidence, and accelerate their college education. Through these expanded distinction and dual credit opportunities, Mullen High School continues to foster an environment where every student’s gifts can be recognized and developed.
8. The school’s facilities are adequate for meeting the academic needs of your child.
98.6% strongly agreed or agreed, 1.4% needs improvement
Mr. Mauler’s response:
Mullen Public Schools continues to make meaningful improvements to our facilities each year. Recent upgrades include a renovated kitchen, the addition of a greenhouse, a new elementary fence and retaining wall, and LED lighting throughout both buildings. We are currently updating the preschool playground and exploring the possibility of enclosing the Hilltop Gym.
The Mullen Board of Education has taken a conservatively progressive approach - investing wisely to ensure our facilities remain modern, safe and functional, while planning responsibly for the future. Maintaining and improving our buildings is an ongoing priority, especially as our facilities age.
Our goal is to ensure that Mullen Public Schools remains a high-quality learning environment for generations to come.
9. Do you know where the Nebraska Department of Education rated Mullen Public Schools for the 2024-2025 School year?
Mr. Mauler’s response:
The Nebraska Department of Education evaluates school districts using the AQuESTT Rating System, which classifies schools as Needs Improvement, Good, Great or Excellent. These ratings are based on multiple indicators, including educational opportunities and access, transitions, positive partnerships and relationships, success and leadership, educator effectiveness, student achievement and growth and postsecondary, career and civic readiness.
For the 2022-2023, 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 school years, Mullen Public Schools earned an “Excellent” rating. While achieving an Excellent rating once is noteworthy, earning it three consecutive years is exceptionally rare. We want to ensure our community understands that the high level of performance happening at MPS is not something every district experiences. We have something special here, and we are incredibly proud of our teachers, students and support staff for the work that makes these results possible. The district overall, high school, middle school and elementary each rated excellent.
MPS students performed well above the state average in every content area:
Math
Grades 3-5: 90% Proficient (State Average: 60%)
Grades 6-8: 77% Proficient (State Average: 61%)
English Language Arts
Grades 3-5: 85% Proficient (State Average: 58%)
Grades 6-8: 81% Proficient (State Average: 57%)
Science
Grade 5: 100% Proficient (State Average: 76%)
Grade 8: 88% Proficient (State Average: 64%)
10. During the 2023–2024 school year, how many teaching positions were filled by an unqualified teacher or left unfilled in Nebraska?
The statewide number for this year was approximately 1,200 positions. According to NDE, there were 908 unfilled positions, and 361 vacancies, for a total of about 1,270 open positions.
Watch a future issue of the Tribune for more from Mr. Mauler on Nebraska’s teacher shortage.