The public hearing on the Truth in Taxation for the 2024 payable 2025 tax levy was a central topic. A staff member, familiar with the funding formulas set by the Minnesota Legislature, led a presentation explaining the district’s financial challenges, particularly in special education. The district is grappling with an underfunding issue, known as a cross-subsidy, which amounted to about $6.8 million for the 2022-2023 period. Despite a minor increase in funding, the shortfall remains close to $3.8 million. The presentation included a comparison with other districts, pointing out that Brainerd lacks an operating referendum, which could potentially alleviate some budgetary pressures.

A graph was presented to highlight the district’s financial constraints, particularly in areas such as food service, where costs outstrip state reimbursement rates, resulting in an intentional debt accumulation. It was noted that food services are not expected to generate profit, and any surplus would be addressed by the Minnesota Department of Education. The budget breakdown showed a substantial portion of expenditures allocated to salaries and benefits.

The tax levy discussion was comprehensive, covering the impact of rising property values and new construction within the district. A sample tax statement was shared, illustrating how changes in property valuations could affect individual tax amounts, despite the total levy remaining unchanged. Legislative changes regarding homestead inclusion were also discussed. A board member questioned the use of a $375,000 average home value for tax estimations, which was explained as a figure derived from data by Ellers.

Inquiries about how Brainerd’s district taxes compare to others were raised, acknowledging the multiple factors that contribute to these differences. The disparity in funding among districts was a recurring theme, with one board member remarking on the historical context of funding inequities in public education, dating back to a $3 million shortfall in 2004. Despite these challenges, no members of the public came forward to comment during the hearing.

The meeting also addressed recognition awards, with accolades given to students and teams for their achievements. The Warrior girl swimming and diving team received congratulations, alongside individual award winners like Talia Badowski and character award recipients from Niswa Elementary.

During public input, concerns about bullying at Forest View Middle School were brought to the board’s attention. A speaker criticized the absence of a clear anti-bullying program, stating that current measures were insufficient and urging immediate action to prevent potential tragic outcomes. The slow implementation of programs like Top 20 was noted, with an estimated delay of five years before they could effect change.

The discussion on the proposed scoreboard project, aimed at modernizing athletic facilities without impacting academic resources, was another significant topic. The finance committee recommended adopting the project, which involves selling sponsorship panels to generate revenue. This initiative is intended to improve the district’s sports facilities, particularly the stadium scoreboard and audio system, without direct financial contributions from the school budget.

The board members expressed concerns about potential fundraising fatigue in the community, but examples from other districts with successful sponsorship models were cited to support the project’s viability. The board ultimately approved the proposal, emphasizing the importance of clear communication regarding the use of funds.

Attention then turned to the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and its goals, with a presentation on reading proficiency and achievement gaps. A principal from an elementary school outlined strategies like the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) aimed at addressing academic, behavioral, and social-emotional learning. The need for proactive measures and collaboration among staff was stressed to overcome the challenges faced in the previous school year.

The meeting also included discussions on student attendance, emphasizing its correlation with academic success. The board acknowledged the necessity of improving attendance rates, particularly through initiatives at alternative education centers, where significant improvements have been observed.

In policy matters, the board approved revisions to policy 524 on internet technology and cell phone use, integrating language from a previous policy on cell phone usage. The policy now requires cell phones to be powered off and out of sight in classrooms.

Finally, the meeting concluded with the approval of two-year school calendars and a new leadership elective course. The course aims to develop communication, problem-solving, and self-awareness skills among students, fostering their readiness for post-graduation paths.