On December 14, 2020, the Norfolk Public Schools Board of Education met for their monthly board meeting. Mrs. Sandy Wolfe, President of the School Board, recognized Dr. Patti Gubbels, Mr. Bob Waite, and Mr. Arnie Robinson for their many years of dedication and service to the students and staff of Norfolk Public Schools. Fellow board members thanked the departing member for their outstanding efforts and praised their dedication to the success of students.
Dr. Patti Gubbels has served on the Norfolk Board of Education for the past six years, since January 2015. She was re-elected for a second term. Dr. Gubbels currently serves as the Vice President of the School Board and has tendered her resignation in order to serve in her newly elected position on the State of Nebraska Board of Education as the District 3 member representing northeast Nebraska. Dr. Gubbels has a history in serving the field of education. She is a retired teacher, college professor, and college administrator and believes strongly in the importance of public education and its role in preparing our students for a successful future.
Mr. Bob Waite joined the Norfolk Board of Education in January 2017. Mr. Waite brought a rich history of service to Norfolk Public Schools with him to his role on the Board of Education. Prior to retirement, Mr. Waite served in a district administrative role at Norfolk Public Schools. After a few years of retirement, Mr. Waite sought election to the school board. He, and his family, have deep roots in the public school system and his Panther pride is evident.
Mr. Arnie Robinson has been a member of the Norfolk Board of Education since January 2017. He is a proud Panther alum and believes strongly in the importance of a strong public education system. Mr. Robinson is the Executive Vice President at Norfolk Iron and Metal and is actively engaged in many additional leadership roles in the city of Norfolk. One of his passions has always been supporting the success of Norfolk Public Schools to ensure our graduates are prepared for their future and that our school district is an asset to our community.
Superintendent Dr. Jami Jo Thompson told us, “The three departing board members have worked tirelessly to support the success of our school district. They have always remained dedicated to a successful outcome which sometimes included making hard decisions to the benefit of our students and staff. I want to thank each of them for their professionalism, dedication, and for always putting student success above all else.”
