Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

Published Bi-Weekly for the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

WTN gets new CFO!

Winnebago Treaty of 1865!

page: 7

Volume 55, Number 6

Nį̄ šoc Nįgešąną

The 7th & 8th grade band students

of WPS attended the WSC Middle

School Music Festival. Solos, duets,

and trios were performed for judges

which earned 4 superior rankings

and 4 excellent rankings. Results:

Clarinet Trio: Liam BuffaloChief,

Alaryse Merrick, and Ruby Hulit

– Superior Rating 1. Clarinet Duet:

Liam BuffaloChief, and Alaryse

Merrick – Superior Rating 1. Trumpet

Solo: Chevale White – Superior

rating 1. Flute Solo: Khyrae Ebert

– Superior Rating 1. Trumpet Solo:

Kellin WhiteTwin – Excellent Rating

2. Saxophone Solo: Raden Lopez –

Excellent Rating 2. Trumpet Duet:

Chevale White, and Kellin WhiteTwin

– Excellent Rating 2. Percussion Solo:

Traysen Jacobs – Excellent Rating 2.

Little Priest Tribal College

announced that Laila Petite has been

named the American Indian College

Fund Student of the Year. Laila serves

as the President of the Student Senate

at LPTC while showing academic

excellence and leadership on campus.

page: 6

Wake hikiruxe wi

Racoon Mating Moon

Winnebago Tribe Calls for Urgent Federal Action on Public Safety and Education

By Bethani RedhornPhotography from

Archive: Washington, DC

[Winnebago, NE] On March 18, 2026,

Winnebago Tribal Councilmember

Eugene DeCora Sr. provided testimony

before the United States House Interior

Appropriations Subcommittee to deliver

a powerful message—federal funding

must evolve to match the Tribe’s growing

self-determination and unprecedented

educational expansion. Councilman

DeCora’s testimony emphasized that

while the Tribe is taking charge of its

own future, it cannot do so effectively

without reliable federal partnerships.

The testimony outlined urgent funding

priorities for Fiscal Year 2027, focusing

on a transition toward tribal selfdetermination and the expansion of

educational opportunities.

A cornerstone of the Tribe’s current

strategy is the full transition of law

enforcement from the Bureau of Indian

Affairs (BIA) to the Winnebago Tribal

Law Enforcement Department, a move

that was finalized on October 1, 2025,

ending a long period of reliance on the

BIA. While the Tribe successfully swore

in Chief of Police Jeremiah Lonewolf and

expanded its force, Councilman DeCora

detailed significant “operational burdens”

caused by a federal shutdown that delayed

FY2026 funding until January 2026,

forcing the Tribe to cover 100% of the

costs for four months. Due to limited BIA

resources, local officers are often pulled

away for five-hour round-trip transports

to distant facilities, leaving the reservation

under patrolled. Since the transition,

tribal officers can now execute civil

warrants, such as child support which were

previously restricted under BIA policy.

The Tribe plans to assume control of its

own corrections program on July 1, 2026,

to fill critical gaps in 24/7 coverage.

The testimony also addressed a

nationwide shortage of School Resource

Officers (SROs), highlighting a critical

gap in school safety. Historically, the

Winnebago school system was served

by a full-time SRO, but the position was

recently left vacant. Currently, the BIA’s

Office of Justice (OJS) funds only 63

SROs for all 574 federally recognized

tribes. In response to this, the Winnebago

Public School has taken steps to fund its

own SRO position to protect its students

while the Tribe advocates for dedicated

federal funding to ensure safe learning

environments.

Beyond public safety, the Tribe is

celebrating a historic era at Little Priest

Tribal College (LPTC), where enrollment

has more than doubled over the last four

years. To sustain this growth, the Tribe is

seeking operational support with increased

funding for a $60 million Master Plan to

build a new 10-acre campus expansion

and supplement aging structures,

some of which date back to 1947. The

expansion will include a Wellness Center,

a Dormitory, and a Career and Technical

Education (CTE) building, which will

house programs like the newly launched

Carpentry track.

Councilman DeCora, an LPTC alumnus

himself, concluded his testimony by

urging the Subcommittee to provide stable,

sufficient resources that reflect the true

needs of the Tribe. For the Winnebago

community, these investments are not just

line items, they are the foundation for

a safer, more educated, and truly selfsufficient Nation.

Winnebago Tribal Law Enforcement Department Upgrades

By Bethani Redhorn

Photography by Bethani Redhorn &

Garan Coons

The BlackHawk Community Center

has a Mothers Room located near the

Tribal Offices. This was created in collaboration with the Winnebago Public

Health Department to support mothers

who are breastfeeding or pumping

while away from home, at work, or

while at meetings/events.

Saturday, March 28, 2026

[Winnebago, NE] On October 1st, a

quiet but profound shift occurred in the

Winnebago Tribe’s history. After decades

of federal oversight, the tribe officially

took the reins of its own law enforcement

from the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).

Leading this charge is a man who knows

these streets better than most, Chief of

Police Jeremiah Lonewolf. “I was born

in the IHS hospital before it stopped,”

Chief Lonewolf recalls, tracing his roots

from Head Start through 12th grade at

Winnebago Public. “I left the BIA so I

could be here. I live here, right next to the

Ho-Chunk Center. It’s nice and quiet and

peaceful out here.” But the transition has

been anything but quiet.

The department inherited a fleet of

BIA vehicles described as being on their

“last leg.” In their place, the community

will now see sleek 2026 Chevy Tahoe

Pursuit Package Vehicles (PPPVs). These

aren’t just cars; they are symbols of tribal

identity. Featured on the vehicles is the

department’s brand-new logo designed

by Winnebago Tribe’s Webmaster

Christina Parker. The new logo features

the bear clan, symbolizing the protectors

of the Winnebago community, along

with beautiful Ho-Chunk applique. The

vehicles also feature “ghost graphics,”

reflective logos that appear as standard

black Tahoe’s until they catch the light.

On the sides, the Ho-Chunk language

proudly declares the mission to Protect

and Serve, while the back identifies the

officers as Wajrukos (the traditional name

for police) and bears the phrase Helping

People and Community. Inside, the

Tahoe’s are mobile command centers. The

days of typing reports on Word documents

and hand-delivering paper copies to a

box for the Tribal Court are fading. New

laptops, scanners, and printers will allow

officers to scan a driver’s license and

instantly populate electronic tickets, a

system that will integrate directly with

tribal justice.

Chief Lonewolf shared how each

of the officers have deep community

connections, the force is invested in

the people they serve. The current

administration includes Chief of Police

Jeremiah Lonewolf, Lieutenant and First

Line Supervisor Roberto Gorrin, Sr.;

Investigative and specialized roles include

Con’t. on page 2...

“Mą na anągą n na wawirakara wiāje – Take care of the Earth and Water”

Page 2 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 28, 2026

ANNOUNCEMENTS

...Cont. from front page: WINNEBAGO TRIBAL LAW

ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT UPGRADES

Criminal Investigator Julya Starr and

SORNA Officer Jamison WolfLeader;

Patrol Officers include Roberto Gorrin

Jr., Drake Gorrin, Joseph Barnes, and

Christopher Kollhoff. The department

also receives support during these staffing

transitions from Pete Snowball, Wildlife

and Parks Conservation Officer.

A major upcoming shift is scheduled

for July 1, 2026, when the tribe will take

over the Corrections Program from the

BIA. Currently, officers face significant

operational burdens, including 5.5-hour

round trips to transport inmates to Wagner,

South Dakota, when local facilities are

full. By managing their own corrections,

the department can negotiate its own

bedspace contracts and keep officers on

the reservation where they are needed

most.

The department is actively looking for

dedicated individuals to join their growing

team. Chief Lonewolf emphasizes that

while the job comes with public scrutiny,

it is a calling for those invested in making

things better. Available Positions include

one vacancy for a regular patrol role,

an officer position funded through a

Department of Justice grant, a dedicated

role to ensure safety and mentorship

within schools as a School Resource

Officer (SRO), and two new Corrections

Officers positions that will help launch the

tribal corrections and transport operation.

“You’ve got to want to be in law

enforcement,” says Chief Lonewolf.

“We’re just humans ourselves... but we

have to navigate these systems together to

hold people accountable and improve our

community.”

You can find more information for

the Winnebago Tribal Law Enforcement

Department available on the Winnebago

Tribe’s website: https://winnebagotribe.

com/tribal-police/

*Editor’s Note: Thank you to Chief

Lonewolf and the Law Enforcement

Officers and Staff for all that you do to

keep the Winnebago community safe. I

am sure it is often a thankless job but

thank you for ensuring the safety of our

community members. We look forward to

seeing the continued advancements within

the department.

Saturday, March 28, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 3

Wāgax hųk ra wāgax hokik’ųna

Letter to the Editor

JESUS OUR SAVIOR

LUTHERAN OUTREACH

Faith from one to all

What do you place your faith in? Things

in this world? Or who do you place your

faith in? Do you reason that if it is to be

then it is up to me? How confident are you

in living up to Mauna’s demands? Have

you walked in all His ways? Or have you

faltered along the way?

Each and every day I come to the

realization that I have not lived up to the

demands of Mauna. I am a sinner. I in no

way deserve to share in the glory of God. I

should be banished from His loving presence as I have so often banished Him from

my presence.

And yet, I still have a hope that is

beyond my feeble and limited understanding. This hope begins and ends with what

Mauna has done for me and which He

offers to you too.

You might be wondering what proof do

I have for such a hope? The proof is in the

blood. Not my blood, but in the blood of

the Lamb of God, the world’s one and only

Savior.

The apostle Paul summed this truth up

in his letter to the saints, to the believers

in Christ Jesus, who were living in Rome.

His words, inspired by Mauna’s Spirit, are

for you as well.

Paul wrote, ‘All sinned and are lacking

the glory of God, while being declared

righteous undeservedly by his grace

through the redemption, the one in Christ

Jesus, whom God set forth publicly [as]

an atoning sacrifice, through the faith, in

his blood for proof of his righteousness

By: Pastor Ricky Jacob

on account of the passing over of the sins

which had occurred previously and were

yet unpaid in the delaying of God, toward

the proof of his righteousness in the present momentous time, with the result that

he is righteous and declares righteous the

one from faith of Jesus’ [Romans 3:24-26

Middendorf translation].

First, we read the reality of one’s predicament. All have sinned and are lacking the

glory of God. Do you disagree with this

assessment?

Next, Paul informs the reader that one

is declared righteous - forgiven, absolved

- undeservedly by God’s grace. GRACE:

God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.

The proof of God’s grace is in the blood

- the blood of Jesus Christ [the Anointed

One]. Yes, Jesus’ bloody sacrifice on the

cross redeemed sinners. Jesus’ blood was

the price paid in FULL for the sin of the

world. This gracious and loving offer of

forgiveness extends to all.

Sadly, tragically most will reject this

offer. While the faith and faithfulness of

Jesus fulfilled the will of his Heavenly

Father - Mauna - and extends to all, most

would rather fulfill their own self-centered

desires.

The good news from God’s Sacred

Word is that one is saved by grace alone,

through faith alone, found in Scripture

alone, that points to Christ Jesus alone.

To God alone be all glory! Yes the faithful

obedience of one - Jesus the Son of Mauna

- extends to all! The proof is in the blood

of Jesus.

Winnebago Indian News

is owned and published by the

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”.

The next issue of the WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWS will be published on April 11, 2026.

——————————————————

The Mission of the WIN is to inform and to educate

the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska of issues that

affect them, and to be a vehicle in which stresses

positive and beneficial concerns and points of view.

LETTER POLICY: Signed editorials, letters and

articles appearing in the WIN are the responsibility

of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the

opinion or attitude of the Winnebago Indian News

or the Winnebage Tribal Council.

The WIN encourages the submission of Letters to

the Editor; however, letters must be signed and

addressed. Letters may be edited for language

and length.

Postmaster Send Address Changes To

Winnebago Indian News

P.O. Box 687

Winnebago, Nebraska 68071

——————————————————

The Winnebago Indian News (WIN), founded ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. The reproduction of

in January 1972, is published bi-weekly for the editorial or photography content without permission

is prohibited.

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.

DEADLINE for this issue will be April 7, 2026.

CHANGE OF ADDRESS: Please send change of Advertising/News Deadline

address with old mailing label to:

12:00 Noon Monday Printing Week

Winnebago Tribal Council

Coly Brown.............................. Chairman

Periodicals Postage Paid

Isaac Smith...................... Vice Chairman

(Issn 1060-3026) At Winnebago, NE

Teresa Littlegeorge.................. Secretary

Rona Stealer........................... Treasurer

Winnebago

Indian

News

Staff

winnebagoindiannews@winnebagotribe.com

Phone: 402-878-2272

Bethani Redhorn.....................................Editor Victoria Kitcheyan...................... Member

Tyler Snake............................. Office Manager Ireta Frazier................................Member

“Official Newspaper of

Christina Parker...................Desktop Publisher Trey Blackhawk..........................Member

the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska”

Lorelei DeCora...........................Member

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or contact us at our e-mail address:

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Page 4 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 28, 2026

TRIBAL COUNCIL MINUTES

....Con’t. from last issue ...

Brian Coyle

[Isaac out at 9:38 a.m., in at 9:41 a.m.]

BREAK: 10:10 a.m., reconvene at 10:32

a.m.

WCHS FINANCIAL REPORT: Presented by Beth Wewel and David Edwards

Tribal member question regarding using

our insurance to purchase glasses/contacts

from optometry, CEO Edwards responded

that contracts need to be put into place.

Rona Stealer motioned to approve

December 2025 and January 2026 WCHS

Financial Reports. Teresa Littlegeorge

seconded the motion.

VOTE:

(6) yes (0) no (0)

abstain Motion carried.

WINNEBAGO GAMING COMMISSION: Presented by Nakia Mallory, and

Lisa Walker.

Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve

the December 2025 and January 2026

Winnebago Gaming Commission reports.

Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE:

(6) yes (0) no (0)

abstain Motion carried.

WARHORSE REPORT: Presented by

Angel Derochie and Lance Morgan.

[Isaac out at 11:24 a.m., in at 11:25

a.m.]

[Trey out at 11:31 a.m., in at 11:37 a.m.]

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

Warhorse December 2025 and January

2026 Financials. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE:

(6) yes (0) no (0)

abstain Motion carried.

(Secretary Littlegeorge requested to

move the Warpath request up in the agenda

so the students can return to school after

their presentation.)

Warpath 6th grade Boys Basketball Donation Match request:

Mitchell DeCora, Jr., Justin Bearskin,

Jr., and Andrew Zagurski presented their

request to the Tribal Council.

Iva Masquat and Zeriah George were

also in attendance with the students.

Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve

the Warpath 6th grade Boys Basketball

donation match in the amount of $1,000.00

from donations. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Rona out at 11:57 a.m., in at 11:58

a.m.]

[Coly out at 11:58 a.m., Isaac assumes

the chair]

WINNAVEGAS REPORT: Presented

by Mark Grant and Tom Teesdale, Christian Rogers, and Ray Thomas.

[Coly in at 12:03 p.m., reassumes the

chair]

WINNAVEGAS DECEMBER 2025

AND JANUARY 2026 FINANCIAL

REPORTS

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to approve

the WinnaVegas December 2025 and January 2026 financial reports. Eugene decora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

APPROVALS:

Bingo Department request; approval of

the 34th Anniversary Bingo Bash promotion on April 04, 2026.

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

Bingo Department request; approval of the

34th Anniversary Bingo Bash promotion on

April 04, 2026. Eugene DeCora seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Marketing Department request; approval

for the $100,000 Blooming Bucks Drawings promotion.

Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve

the Marketing Department request; approval for the $100,000 Blooming Bucks

Drawings promotion. Teresa Littlegeorge

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Marketing Department request; approval

to present Blackhawk in Concert on Saturday, September 12, 2026.

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

Marketing Department request; approval

to present Blackhawk in Concert on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Rona Stealer

seconded the motion.

VOTE:

(6) yes (0) no (0)

abstain Motion carried.

TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:

LPTC Presentation – Presentation from

Manoj Patil

Discussion, no further action taken.

TAP Meal Donation Request

[Teresa out at 12:54 p.m., in at 12:57

p.m.]

Isaac Smith motioned to support

the TAP Meal donation request up to

$5,000.00 out of the donation funds and

use of remaining visa gift cards from 2023.

Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Tribal Council Payroll – Chairman

Brown discusses further the payroll increase for the Tribal Council.

[Isaac out of 1:07 p.m., in at 1:10 p.m.]

5% increase for Tribal Council Officer

members, and 10% increase for Tribal

Council Non-Officer members.

Suspend the Rules - Executive Session

Rona Stealer motioned to suspend the

rules for 2 items from WinnVegas. Trey

Blackhawk seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

EXECUTIVE SESSION:

WinnaVegas discussion items

Rona Stealer motioned enter Executive

Session at 1:43 p.m. Teresa Littlegeorge

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Isaac out]

Trey Blackhawk motioned to exit executive Session at 2:33 p.m. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Isaac in]

ADJOURN:

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adjourn

the meeting at 2:34 p.m. Eugene DeCora

seconded the motion.

VOTE:

(6) yes (0) no (0)

abstain Motion carried.

Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting

at 2:34 p.m.

Trey Blackhawk motioned to approve

the amendment as presented. Eugene

DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[amended motion to read as follows:

Trey Blackhawk motioned to advertise

for three (3) vacancies at staggered terms

for the Winnebago Gaming Development

Corporation for 30 days. Ireta Frazier

seconded the motion. VOTE: (4) yes, (0)

no, (0) abstain Motion carried.]

2-16-26 Special Meeting – Enrollment

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the 2-16-26 Special Meeting-Enrollment

meeting minutes. Rona Stealer seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

2-16-26 Mid-Monthly Tribal Council

meeting minutes

Ireta Frazier motioned to approve the

2-16-26 Mid-Monthly meeting minutes.

Rona Stealer seconded the motion.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

2-18-26 General Counsel meeting

minutes

Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve

the 2-18-26 General Counsel meeting

minutes. Eugene DeCora seconded the

motion.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

2-25-26 Treasurer’s Report meeting

minutes

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

the 2-25-26 Treasurer’s Report meeting

minutes with correction to typo. Trey

Blackhawk seconded the motion.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,

OLD BUSINESS:

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Boys & Girls Club

Winnebago Tribal Council

Lisa Anderson – Presentation

[Teresa out at 9:34 a.m., in at 9:51 a.m.]

[Isaac out at 9:56 a.m., in at 9:58 a.m.]

[Isaac out at 10:02 a.m.]

Amendment to MOA

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

Eugene DeCora motioned to approve

REGULAR TRIBAL COUNCIL

the amended MOA for the Boys and Girls

March 2, 2026

Club. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the

motion.

TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Coly Brown

Motion

carried.

Teresa Littlegeorge

[Eugene

out at 10:10 a.m.]

Victoria Kitcheyan

NEW

BUSINESS:

Isaac Smith

Rona Stealer

Planning Department – Resolutions

Ireta Frazier

FY 2026 Institute of Museum and

Trey Blackhawk

Library Services – Native American Basic

Eugene DeCora

Grant

Lorelei DeCora

Trey Blackhawk motioned to adopt

OTHERS PRESENT:

resolution #26-84: FY 2026 Institute of

Jocelyn Brasher

Museum and Library Services – Native

Toni Brasher

American Basic Grant. Rona Stealer secJames Huntwork

onded the motion.

Jeremiah Schutz

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Michael Chodoronek

Motion

carried.

Anna Bess Preston

Lisa Anderson

Winnebago Tribe Youth Build FY25

Brittany Thomas

Project

Kellie Snow

Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to adopt

Kiana Lewis

resolution #26-85: Winnebago Tribe Youth

Danelle Smith

Build FY25 Project. Ireta Frazier secondMaggie Miller

ed the motion.

Christina Parker

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Lynelle Blackhawk

Motion

carried.

Andy Snowball

FY26

CERCLA Section 128(a) TechniTiffany Buchanan

cal

Assistance

Grant

William Bass

Lorelei

DeCora

motioned to adopt

Janelle DeCora

OTHERS PRESENT:

resolution #26-86: FY26 CERCLA Section

Tyresha Romero

128(a) Technical Assistance Grant. VictoEthan Clapsaddle

ria Kitcheyan seconded the motion.

Dulcie Paiva

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Joi Long

Motion carried.

Rebecca Walker

[Eugene in at 10:17 a.m.]

Sarah Snake

2026 AARP Community Challenge:

Cherie Tebo

Flagship

Grant

Anthony Bassette, Jr.

Ireta

Frazier

motioned to adopt resoJohn Jensen

lution

#26-87:

2026

AARP Community

Cecelia Earth

Challenge:

Flagship

Grant. Victoria

Harold Cleveland

Darla LaPointe

Kitcheyan seconded the motion.

Fran Sharpback

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Terri Lee Medina

Motion carried.

Felicia Brownrigg

Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03)

Ricky Jacobs

FY 2027 Community Project Funding –

Trent Rogers, LIHTC

USDA Rural Development, Community

Dana Zagurski

Facilities Grant Proposal: Winnebago

Boys & Girls Club Community Facilities

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown

Project

called to order at 9:01 a.m.

Eugene DeCora motioned to adopt

OPENING PRAYER: Vice Chairman

resolution #26-88: Congressman Adrian

Smith offered the opening prayer.

Smith (NE-03) FY 2027 Community ProjAPPROVE AGENDA:

ect Funding – USDA Rural Development,

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

Community Facilities Grant Proposal:

agenda as amended. Isaac Smith seconded

Winnebago Boys & Girls Club Communithe motion.

ty Facilities Project. Rona Stealer secondVOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

ed the motion.

Motion carried.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

INTRODUCTION:

Motion carried.

Jocelyn Brasher – Candidate for AttorVictoria Kitcheyan motioned to authoney General.

rize Chairman Brown to send a letter to

[Isaac out at 9:12 a.m., in at 9:16 a.m.]

support resolution #26-88: Congressman

READING OF THE MINUTES:

Adrian Smith (NE-03) FY 2027 ComAmend motion wording, 2-11-26 CEO

munity Project Funding – USDA Rural

Report meeting minutes

Development, Community Facilities Grant

Proposal: Winnebago Boys & Girls Club

Community Facilities Project. Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Pow-wow Committee Resignation

Eugene DeCora motioned to accept the

resignation from James Sun III from the

Winnebago Pow-wow Committee and

re-advertise until the vacancy is filled.

Ireta Frazier seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Request – Tec~a Os~paye Youth Council

President

Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve the flag request for Tec~a Os~paye

Youth Council President to display the

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska flag in the

Elementary Lunchroom and carried during

the Senior Honoring if a student from

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska graduates

from Flandreau Public High School. Trey

Blackhawk seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

NRCS – discussion

Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to table the

MOU until further legal review. Teresa

Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

DISCUSSION

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Big Voice – request for sponsorship to

live-stream the District Games for Winnebago and Bancroft.

Per email, HCI agreed to sponsor the

live streaming of the district playoff

games.TRIBAL COUNCIL ITEMS:

Senior Citizens – Match Request

Victoria Kitcheyan motioned for the

Tribal Council to sponsor the 38-passenger

bus request for $1,845.00 out of donations.

Eugene DeCora seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

GPTLHB

Victoria Kitcheyan motioned to approve

travel for any Tribal Council to attend

the Great Plains Tribal Leaders Health

Board meeting in Omaha, NE on March

19, 2026. Trey Blackhawk seconded the

motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Potential Breakout Session at Tribal

Self-Governance Conference

Eugene DeCora motioned to authorize

Victoria Kitcheyan to speak on behalf of

the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska at the

Breakout Session at the Tribal Self-Governance Conference. Teresa Littlegeorge

seconded the motion.

VOTE: (7) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

[Trey out at 11:25 a.m.]

Rona Stealer motioned to approve the

letter of Proxy for Ireta Frazier to act on

behalf of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska at the GPTLHB meeting. Eugene

DeCora seconded the motion.

ABSTAIN: Ireta

VOTE: (5) yes (0) no (1) abstain, IF

Motion carried.

LIHTC Presentation – Trent Rogers

[Teresa out at 11:32 a.m.]

[Isaac in at 11:35 a.m.]

[Teresa in at 11:37 a.m.]

[Victoria out at 12:21 p.m., in at 12:23

p.m.]

ADJOURN:

Teresa Littlegeorge motioned to adjourn the meeting at 12:36 p.m. Victoria

Kitcheyan seconded the motion.

VOTE: (8) yes (0) no (0) abstain

Motion carried.

Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting

at 12:36 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

WINNEBAGO TRIBE OF NEBRASKA

DISENROLLMENT HEARING

March 16, 2026

TRIBAL COUNCIL PRESENT:

Coly Brown

Teresa Littlegeorge

Trey Blackhawk

Eugene DeCora

Lorelei DeCora (virtual)

Isaac Smith (virtual)

Ireta Frazier (in at 10:44 a.m.)

Victoria Kitcheyan

OTHERS PRESENT:

Ramona Sheridan

Tyler Smith

Karen Bass

Christina Parker

Tiffany Buchanan

Anna Bess Preston

Saturday, March 28, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 5

COMMUNITY

Danelle Smith

Tyresha Romero

TRIBAL COUNCIL ABSENT:

Rona Stealer (travel)

*Meeting start delayed due to weather.

CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Brown

called to order at 10:21 a.m.

OPENING PRAYER: Councilman DeCora

offered the opening prayer.

PURPOSE OF THE HEARING:

For Tribal Council to make a determination

whether to act upon recommendations by the

Tribal Enrollment Committee to take action to

Disenroll certain members of the Winnebago

Tribe of Nebraska.

Chairman Brown reads the procedure to be

conducted for the hearing.

PRESENTMENT OF DOCUMENTARY

EVIDENCE SUPPORTING BASIS OF

TEC DETERMINATION-ENROLLMENT

STAFF/TRIBAL ENROLLMENT COMMITTEE:

T.C. #4076

V.C. #4075

T.H. #4052

K.C. #4073

T.S. #7085

S.K. #3741

L.C. #4075

J.K. #3472

J.H. #2141

E.W. #3937

EXAMINATION OF ENROLLMENT

STAFF/TEC:

Enrollment Director presents documentation.

OPPORTUNITY FOR ANY INDIVIDUAL SUBJECT TO DISENROLLMENT

PROCEEDINGS TO PRESENT EVIDENCE OF ELIGIBILITY FOR MEMBERSHIP:

Enrollment Director states that efforts have

been made to have the individuals present their

case.

None of the individuals have made an effort

to present their case.

(Ireta in at 10:44 a.m.)

ISSUANCE OF DECISION:

Lorelei DeCora motioned to adopt resolution

#26-91: Disenrollment of Henry Family. Teresa Littlegeorge seconded the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no

(0) abstain

Motion carried.

ADJOURN:

Eugene DeCora motioned to adjourn the

meeting at 11:12 a.m. Ireta Frazier seconded

the motion.

VOTE: (6) yes (0) no

(0) abstain

Motion carried.

Chairman Brown adjourned the meeting at

11:12 a.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Teresa Littlegeorge, Secretary

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska

LITTLE PRIEST TRIBAL COLLEGE

OPENS CARPENTRY BUILDING

Winnebago, Nebraska – Little Priest Tribal College (LPTC) will unveil its newest campus addition, a $1.5 million carpentry facility named “Deer Clan,” on March 27, 2026.

LPTC launched its one-year Carpentry Diploma program in Fall 2025, which includes

three stackable certificates. The program welcomed 18 students in its inaugural cohort,

marking a significant step forward in expanding workforce-focused education at the

college.

“This is a dream come true,” said President Patil. “The Winnebago community and the

college have long envisioned a strong trades program, and today that vision has become

a reality. With 18 students in our first cohort, we are excited for them to learn and grow

in this state-of-the-art facility. I am deeply grateful to the LPTC Board of Trustees, Tribal

Council, faculty, staff, and students for their continued support. A special thank you to

Carpentry faculty member Mr. Bob Wilcke for building this program from the ground

up. We are also grateful for the $1.4 million grant from the Department of Labor to start

the Carpentry program. We look forward to celebrating this milestone at the grand opening on March 27.”

Please contact LPTC President, Manoj Patil, for media inquires. Media is invited to

attend the grand opening ceremony at 12 noon on March 27th.

CONTACT:

Manoj Patil, President, Little Priest Tribal College

NEXT W.I.N. DEADLINE:

APRIL 7, 2026

Page 6 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 28, 2026

Question of the Issue:

A Blast from the Past: Tell us about a memorable school field trip

or assembly from either your elementary, middle school, or high

school days.

GARAN: I was in junior high when a Native lady named Lisa Tiger came in to discuss

HIV/AIDS. Back in the ‘90s, a lot of awareness needed to be raised because it was

becoming rampant. I originally thought to myself, ‘It can’t be that bad,’ but then I

heard Magic Johnson got it and Eazy-E passed away because of it. When she was

speaking, she revealed that she herself had HIV. She looked normal and healthy while

talking about prevention, which really changed my perspective. At the time, I thought

if you contracted something like the flu, you could just tell—but I learned that the

danger of HIV is how hard it is to detect. Her presentation was very memorable.

KEVIN: Class of 1986, my favorite high school memory was from a homecoming

assembly. During the event, Football Team Seniors took part in a lighthearted “Best

Legs” contest, where only contestants’ legs were visible to the audience. The mystery

added to the fun, as classmates voted without knowing who was who. I earned the top

spot voted best legs 1986 Winnebago Indians Football Team, making it one of the most

memorable and talked-about moments of my senior year. (not)

CHRISTINA: When I went to boarding school in Chamberlain, SD, I was able to go

on a drive to take some kids home to Pine Ridge. It was the only time I’ve ever seen

the Wounded Knee Massacre memorial. There was a limo driving up to the archway

and I always wondered if that was a movie celebrity. I don’t really remember the side

of town we were on but I do remember the kids family that we got to visit was very

nice.

BETHANI: In elementary school, I remember we had an assembly with a magician.

We were in the old gym, which at the time was the main gym, and is now the location

for the fine arts theatre at Winnebago Public School. I do not recall any of his talking

points, although I am sure he had a message to share with us. The magician performed

many different tricks, but the memorable part of this came when the lights were shut

off due to his glow-in-the-dark props. I used to be extremely terrified of the dark,

and I just remember seeing the lights go one by one while also seeing the lights from

outside seep through underneath the gym doors. I started crying, but eventually, I

overcame this fear.

TYLER: My favorite trip was while I was attending SSC middle school. We went to

the NE State Capitol in Lincoln for a tour. Although I’m afraid of heights, I’d say the

best part was going to the 14th observation floor. We also went to the University of NE

State Museum, the planetarium show about Dolphins was cool. The museum is very

hands on for kids of all ages.

AYDEN: A funny memory that I’ll always remember is when we were doing

presentations and kaveboss switched our presentation to some nonsense. The best part

was that we got 75% on the assignment for that.

Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Announces

New Chief Financial Officer

The Winnebago Indian News

recently met with the new CFO, Jarold

McWilliams, and this is what he had to

say:

- Tell us about yourself.

I grew up in Norfolk, Nebraska, and I

have lived in Nebraska my whole life. I

come from a big family with 10 brothers

and sisters, so family and community

have always been the most important

things in my life. I’m also a full member

of the Osage Nation, and my tribal

identity has played an important role

in shaping my values and the path I’ve

taken.

- What is your educational

background?

I studied economics in Nebraska, earning

my bachelor’s degree from the University

of Nebraska–Lincoln and my master’s

degree from the University of Nebraska–

Omaha. My academic work focused on

economics, development, finance, and

long-term institutional growth.

- What experience do you bring to this

role?

My background includes accounting,

financial services, billing operations,

and economic research. Most recently, I

worked as a Billing Operations Manager

in the private sector, where I made

significant process improvements that

helped correct a major cash collections

gap of nearly $100 million. I’ve also

worked in accounting and financial

operations roles and have built my career

around improving systems, strengthening

processes, and making organizations more

effective.

- What are your goals as CFO?

As CFO, my main priority is to be a

good steward of the Tribe’s financial

resources, improve processes within the

Finance Department, and offer ideas

and implementations that will contribute

to the long-term financial benefit and

preservation of Winnebago Tribe moving

forward. I take seriously the responsibility

of overseeing tribal funds, programs,

and priorities, and I want to make

sure that work is done with integrity,

accountability, and vision.

- What does this role mean to you

personally?

I believe life is about opportunity. Two

of the greatest opportunities of my

life have come as a direct result of my

tribal affiliation, and one of my primary

goals of the future is giving back to the

Native community, both my own tribe of

Osage Nation, and also now serving my

commitment as CFO of Winnebago Tribe.

This role means a lot to me because it

gives me the chance to serve, to lead, and

to give back in a meaningful way.

- How do you hope to impact the

community?

I want to give back to the community

that made this great opportunity for me

possible. I am particularly concerned with

giving back in the form of opportunities

to the youth of Winnebago Nation through

expanding internship and educational

opportunities. I think investing in young

people is one of the most important things

we can do for the future.

- What else should people know about

you?

I’m also an author and researcher. I have

completed a large book project on a new

comprehensive economic development

model, and I’ve published economics

writing and research connected to

development and finance. That work

reflects a big part of who I am — I

care deeply about ideas, long-term

strategy, and creating better outcomes for

communities.

!

e

r

e

H

d

A

r

You

PLEASE CALL BETHANI OR TYLER TO GET YOUR AD

PLACED IN THE NEXT WINNEBAGO INDIAN NEWSPAPER!

(402) 878-2272

email: winnebagoindiannews@winnebagotribe.com

Saturday, March 28, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 7

Winnebago Treaty Day – Understanding the 1865 Treaty

Presented by Gayla Whitewater

The Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska Organization was closed on Monday, March 9,

2026, in recognition of the tribal holiday: Winnebago Treaty Day of March 8, 1865.

The Winnebago Indian News is grateful to our very own, Gayla Whitewater, for

sharing this information with us. This presentation took place on Wednesday, March

11, 2026, and was hosted by the Little Priest Tribal College Cultural Task Force

in efforts to educate LPTC students and staff about the history and meaning of the

Winnebago Treaty Day holiday observed in Winnebago.

Before we talk about the Treaty of 1865 specifically, it’s important to understand

what a treaty is. A treaty is a formal, legally binding written agreement between

sovereign nations or international organizations and is governed by international law,

these agreements—also known as conventions, pacts, or covenants—create binding

obligations regarding trade, peace, or defense. When the United States entered into

treaties with Native Nations, they were acknowledging that indigenous nations are

separate political entities with their own governments, territories, and authority—

recognized as Nations. Treaties were often used to negotiate things such as land

boundaries, peace agreements, trade relationships, movement between territories,

payments or compensation for land, and services promised by the U.S. Many treaties

involved Native Nations agreeing to cede land to the U.S., often under intense pressure

or difficult circumstances.

In return, the United States would promise things like payments or annuities,

supplies or rations, services such as doctors, blacksmiths, or teachers, and permanent

land reservation (sometimes). These agreements were written down, signed by

representatives of both governments, and ratified by the U.S. Senate. Under the U.S.

Constitution, treaties are considered the “supreme law of the land.” Meaning they are

not just historical artifacts; they are legally binding agreements that still carry weight

today.

Treaties are also important because they affirm something fundamental—Indigenous

nations were never conquered nations that disappeared. They entered into nation-tonation agreements with the United States, and that is why tribal nations today still

maintain a government-to-government relationship with the federal government.

Our sovereignty does not come from the United States, it comes from our existence

as peoples and nations long before the United States existed and treaties simply

recognized that.

Before treaties and removal, the HoChunk, or “People of the Sacred Voice,”

historically referred to as the “Winnebago”, are one of the oldest Indigenous nations

of the Western Great Lakes region. Their traditional homelands span present-day

Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, and Illinois, reflecting a deep and enduring relationship

with the lands and waterways of the region. For thousands of years—long before

European contact—the Ho-Chunk were a thriving, self-sustaining nation with a

complex social structure, rich cultural traditions, and a strong spiritual connection to

place.

Throughout the 19th century, the Ho-Chunk endured multiple episodes of forced

relocation carried out by the United States government. Unlike many tribes who were

removed once, the Ho-Chunk were removed repeatedly—more than a dozen times—

from their ancestral homelands in Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, and Iowa. Despite

forced relocations, many Ho-Chunk families persistently returned to their Wisconsin

homelands, ultimately leading to the establishment of two federally recognized tribes:

the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin and the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Their

history reflects resilience and determination as they maintained their identity, culture,

and community despite repeated displacement.

Another important thing to understand is that the 1865 treaty was not the first treaty

our people signed. By the time our leaders signed the Treaty with the Winnebago in

1865, the Ho-Chunk had already entered into many treaties with the United States over

several decades. These treaties gradually reduced our land base and pushed our people

further and further west.

In 1816, the Peace Treaty was the first treaty with the U.S., signed to end hostilities

following the War of 1812—a war fought by the US and Great Britain and their

respective indigenous allies. In 1825, the Treaty of Prairie du Chien was signed

and established boundaries between Native groups but did not involve ceding land.

Continuing into 1829, the first major land cession in Southern Wisconsin and Northern

Illinois occurred due to pressure from lead miners and the Winnebago War of 1827.

In 1832, the Treaty with the Winnebago included more land lost in Southern

Wisconsin and pressure to move west. Continuing into 1837, a coerced treaty forced

the Ho-Chunk to cede their lands east of the Mississippi River and relocate to Iowa’s

“neutral ground” within eight months. Moving into 1846, the Ho-Chunk were removed

from the “neutral ground” to a reservation in Minnesota, (Long Prairie). In 1855, the

Ho-Chunk ceded their land at Long Prairie, MN, for a new reservation along the Blue

Earth River in Southern Minnesota. In 1859, the Tribe was forced to cede the western

half of their Minnesota reservation to pay debts.

In 1863, the Winnebago Removal Act forcibly removed the Ho-Chunk from

their Blue Earth, MN reservation to a desolate 18-square-mile area at Crow Creek,

South Dakota, following the U.S. Dakota War of 1862. In 1865, the Treaty with

the Winnebago ceded the tribe’s territory in Crow Creek and purchased northern

part of the Omaha Reservation, establishing the Winnebago Indian Reservation in

Nebraska. Nebraska did not end federal harm. Under the Dawes era, communal tribal

land was broken into allotments. This opened the door to non-Native control and

checkerboarding of reservation land. Land loss continued even after a reservation had

already been forced on the tribe.

The Treaty with the Winnebago of 1865 was signed between the United States and

Ho-Chunk leaders on March 8, 1865, establishing the Winnebago Indian Reservation

in Nebraska. This treaty was signed after decades of forced removals and marked a

turning point for Ho-Chunk survival in Nebraska. By the 1860s, the Ho-Chunk had

already been removed multiple times: Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, and South Dakota.

Many Ho-Chunk were suffering at Crow Creek in Dakota Territory, where the land was

poor for farming, food was scarce, and disease spread quickly. The U.S. negotiated a

new treaty to move the Ho-Chunk again—this time to Nebraska. The treaty created

land for the Ho-Chunk in northeast Nebraska. The United States agreed to set aside

land for the tribe, provide financial payments (annuities), and provide federal services.

This land became the reservation of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. The United

States promised to provide services including a physician, an interpreter, a miller,

an engineer, a carpenter, and a blacksmith. These roles were meant to support the

community after relocation.

These treaties still matter today as they are the legal foundation of tribal sovereignty.

When people hear the word, “treaty,” they often think of something that happened

a long time ago; something that belongs only in history books, but treaties are not

just historical documents. They are living agreements that still shape the relationship

between Native nations and the United States today. Treaties are important as they

acknowledge Indigenous nations as sovereign entities. When the U.S. negotiated

treaties with Native nations, it recognized their political status. Tribal governments

today operate as sovereign governments with the authority to govern their own people

and territories. That includes things like tribal courts, tribal law enforcement, tribal

elections and governance, economic development, and cultural preservation. Treaties

ensure a government-to-government relationship between tribes and the federal

government.

The U.S. Constitution states treaties are part of the “supreme law of the land.”

Courts still interpret treaty rights today as treaties define the federal trust responsibility.

Treaties influence issues such as land and reservation boundaries, hunting and

fishing rights, federal obligations to tribes, and jurisdiction on tribal lands. The

relationship created by treaties continue to shape policy, law, and Indigenous life today.

Understanding treaties helps people better understand tribal sovereignty, Indigenous

land rights, modern tribal governance, and the ongoing relationship between Native

nations and the United States. For Native communities, treaties are not just historical

artifacts—they are part of ongoing history.

Honoring Treaty Day includes recognizing the resilience of the Ho-Chunk people

and the legacy of our ancestors. It means continuing to carry our history forward—

sharing knowledge, protecting our sovereignty, and making sure the next general

understands where we come from. Different ways to honor Treaty Day include learning

about the treaties our ancestors signed, research which leaders you may descend from,

teaching younger generations about our history, visiting the land and acknowledge our

ancestors, and participating in tribal governance and community. Honoring Treaty Day

also means understanding treaty rights, sharing Ho-Chunk history with others, and

protecting our sovereignty and culture. Remembering these treaties ensures that the

sacrifices of our ancestors are never forgotten.

In summary, treaties are not just history, they are living agreements that continue to

shape tribal sovereignty and Native communities today. Treaty Day is not a celebration

of colonization; it is a time to acknowledge the sacrifices our ancestors made so that

the Ho-Chunk people would still be here today.

Page 8 • Winnebago Indian News • Saturday, March 28, 2026

SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES

MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF EDUCATION OF

WINNEBAGO PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Absent:

Motion Carried: (0-0-0-0)

A Meeting of the Board of Winnebago Public Schools was convened in open and public

session on Monday, February 18, 2026 at 4:45p.m. in the board room at the Winnebago

Public Schools, Highways 77 & 75, Winnebago, Nebraska. The roll was called and the

following Board members were present or absent:

2.

February 18, 2026 School Board Meeting

Present: Teresa Littlegeorge, Nilah Solomon, Crystal Ross, Greg Bass III, Kiana

Lewis, Kristine Earth

Others Present: Marge Gilpin, Laurice Gilpin, Elizabeth Bayer, Trevor Wilkie Sr.,

Dulcie Paiva

Trisha Ross, Jared Doxey, Ruby Bellanger, Sydney Bird, January Bird/Thomas,

Thelma Whitewater

Notice of the meeting was given in advance by posting in accordance with the Board

approved method for giving notice of meetings. Notice of the meeting was given in

advance to all members of the Board of Education. Availability of the agenda was communicated in the publicized notice. All proceedings of the Board of Education, except

as may be hereinafter noted, were taken while the convened meeting was open to the

attendance of the public.

1.Receiving of Delegations:

2. Call to Order

Meeting was called to order at 4:45 p.m. by President Teresa Littlegeorge, also President Littlegeorge states, “MEMBERS OF THE BOARD RECEIVED NOTICE OF THE

MEETING SHOWING THE TIME AND PLACE OF THE MEETING INCLUDING

THE AGENDA TO BE CONSIDERED. NOTICE OF THE MEETING WAS PUBLISHED BY POSTING ON THE OFFICE DOOR AND THREE OTHER PLACES.”

A COMPLETE COPY OF THE OPEN MEETING ACT IS POSTED ON THE SOUTH

WALL.

3. Approval of Agenda with amendment regarding 4-1.

Motion: Ross

Second: Solomon

Discussion: None

Voting for: Lewis, Ross, Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent: Earth

Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)

4. Business Affairs

5-3. Discuss/Approve School Calendar for 2026-2027

Motion: Lewis

Second: Ross

Discussion: none

Voting For: Littlegeorge, Lewis, Ross, Solomon, Bass III,

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent: Earth

Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)

5-4. Discussion-Basketball Shirts

Kristine Earth in at 5:21 p.m.

5-5. Discussion-Current Certified Openings: Administration/Safety Director-Administration/Elementary

Principal/Elementary Counselor.

5-6. Approve to accept resignation of S.H. (Preschool teacher)

Motion: Bass III

Second: Earth

Discussion: none

Voting For: Lewis, Ross, Solomon, Bass III

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent: None

Motion Carried: (6-0-0-0)

6. Reports

1.Superintendent:

a. Resource Center Update-Refrigerator/Dishwasher are installed-Punch List in progress

b. NAFIS: March 14th-18th (Need to buy Airline tickets this week)

c. Front Entrance Locks/Cameras Update (Everything is ordered may need to shut down

front for a day)

d. Construction Program for Dropouts

4-1. Discussion Athletic Director Report and Closed Session if needed. Possible State

Wrestling

Obligations in Omaha.

No Action taken

Motion:

Second:

Discussion: None

Voting for:

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent:

Motion Carried: (0-0-0-0)

1.

February 18, 2026 School Board Meeting

2. Administrative Reports

a) Elementary Principal

b) High School Principal

c) Special Education Director

d) Dean of Students

e) Safety/Athletic Director

f) Staff Presentation

4-2. Approve minutes of January 12, 2026 Regular Meeting

3.

February 18, 2026 Board Meeting

8. Closed Session 84-1410 Enter Motion 6:56 p.m.

Motion: Solomon

Second: Lewis

Discussion: None

Voting for: Ross, Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent: Earth

Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)

4-3. Approve accounts payable in the amount of $460,345.00, petty cash account/ treasurer’s report.

Motion: Bass III

Second: Solomon

Discussion: accounts payable

Voting For: Solomon, Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis, Ross

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent: Earth

Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)

4-4. Approve Facilities WEFLC: $103,603.41

Motion: Ross

Second: Lewis

Discussion: discuss the change in dates

Voting For: Bass III, Littlegeorge, Lewis, Ross, Solomon

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Absent: Earth

Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)

4-4. Impact Aid Application has been submitted on time.

5. New Business

5-1. Discussion-Set Date for Bullying Forum (March 4, has no school conflicts)

5-2. Board Retreat Dates-March 23rd, 24th, 25th, 27th, Day or Evening-Strategic Planning

after CSI visit.

No Action taken, Retreat postponed until April. Dates to be determined.

Motion:

Second:

Discussion: none

Voting For:

Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None

Greg Bass III out at 6:46

7. Public Comment (No Board Discussion)

Noted: We received a letter dated February 18, 2026 addressed to the Board from January Bird/Thomas

Exit Session at 7:31p. m.

To discuss:

1. Discussions with School Lawyers on Personnel Issues and MOU’s

2. Employee Policy Concern

3. Employee Termination Hearing #1

4. Employee Termination Hearing #2

Motion: Ross Motion: Solomon

Second: Lewis Second: Ross

Voting For: Earth, Ross

Voting For: Ross, Solomon

Solomon, Littlegeorge, Lewis

Lewis, Earth

Voting Against: None Voting Against: None

Not Voting: None Not Voting: None

Absent: Bass III

Absent: Bass III

Motion Carried: (5-0-0-1)

Motion Carried (5-0-0-1)

9. Adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

Respectfully submitted by:

Crystal Ross, Secretary

Winnebago Board of Education

NOTICE OF MEETING OF

THE BOARD OF EDUCATION

DISTRICT 17

WINNEBAGO, NEBRASKA

The regular meeting of the Board of Education (the “Board”) of Thurston County

School District 0017 (Winnebago Public Schools) in the State of Nebraska (the “District”) will be held at 4:45 PM, on Monday, April 13th, 2026 in the regular meeting

place of the Board, the School Conference Room on Highway 77 & 75 in the Village

of Winnebago, Nebraska. An agenda, kept continuously current, is available for public

inspection in the offices of the District Superintendent, located at Highway 77 & 75,

878-2224. The meeting will be open to the attendance of the public. If the meeting

needs to be rescheduled, the 1st rescheduled date and time is Tuesday, April 14th, 2026

at 4:45p.m. and the 2nd rescheduled date and time will be Wednesday, April 15th, 2026 at

4:45 p.m.

Saturday, March 28, 2026 • Winnebago Indian News • Page 9

COMMUNITY