The board unanimously approved a student trip to Spain, planned for June 2026, led by a Spanish teacher from the district. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort to enrich students’ learning experiences through travel. The teacher emphasized the educational benefits, noting that past participants have found such trips transformative. The trip will last between 10 to 14 days, with costs estimated between $4,000 and $5,000 per student. Acknowledging that not all families can afford this expense, the board discussed potential fundraising and scholarship opportunities to make the trip accessible to a broader range of students. The teacher also mentioned plans to conduct a survey to gauge student interest and ensure that participants meet prerequisites, such as completing a Spanish III course, to facilitate an immersive experience.

On the transportation front, the board addressed the ongoing challenges caused by supply chain disruptions. They approved the purchase of a new bus for $145,000 and a lease for an additional bus to ensure the district’s transportation needs are met, particularly during peak times when multiple teams require travel. The board acknowledged the rising costs of buses, which have increased from previous years, necessitating careful budget planning and fleet management to maintain adequate transportation services.

The meeting also included a presentation of the district’s fiscal year 24 audit by Steve Sson from Smith Schaer. The district received a “clean opinion” with no issues. Sson highlighted a slight decrease in average daily membership, a positive sign that enrollment trends might stabilize. He reported an increase in property taxes and state aid, contributing an additional million dollars to district finances, while federal aid saw a decrease due to the winding down of ESSER funding. The district managed to increase its unassigned fund balance from $388,000 to $500,000, reflecting prudent financial management.

The board further discussed the district’s cash flow and noted the receipt of county taxes amounting to $824,000, aligning closely with projections. This revenue is important for maintaining budget stability amid fluctuating state payments. Additionally, the board reviewed the ongoing CDH project, which has effectively utilized funds for CTE HVAC expenditures, though some long-term maintenance items still require attention.

The board acknowledged several donations, including a $10,000 contribution from Gemini for the robotics program and various other gifts from the Education Foundation. These contributions are vital for supporting student activities and resources. The board also approved a resolution related to the Minnesota State High School League, seeking grants to support extracurricular activities and alleviate student activity fees.

In staffing matters, the board approved the teacher seniority list for the 2024-2025 school year, an essential tool for potential staffing decisions. They also addressed a winter coaching list, noting challenges in recruiting coaches, particularly for boys’ basketball.