Lyla, who aspires to be a writer and is involved in competitive wheelchair dance and theater, highlighted the disparity between technical accessibility and actual usability. She stated that at Maple Grove, she “wouldn’t have to worry as much about the heavy doors, older narrower hallways, or tricky exits,” underscoring the need for an environment that supports her independence. Jordan referenced Minnesota statute section 125A.08, which mandates educational opportunities in the least restrictive environment for students with disabilities, and she argued that denying Lyla’s request to attend Maple Grove would violate her rights.

Superintendent Dr. Kim Hile presented an overview of the district’s plans for attendance boundary changes, slated for implementation in the fall of 2026. Dr. Hile detailed the community engagement process, which included four boundary change proposals available online and an impressive 12,000 visits. These plans involve feedback from the community to shape the final decisions, with informational meetings scheduled to ensure everyone remains informed and engaged. Dr. Hile expressed appreciation for the community’s responsiveness and reiterated that their input would influence potential adjustments to the proposals.

In addition to boundary changes, Dr. Hile celebrated district achievements, including students who received the AAA award for excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. She also mentioned recent extracurricular activities, such as a modern band performance at Cedar Island Elementary and a completion ceremony for fifth graders in the DARE program.

The board discussed various educational initiatives and community activities during the winter break. Oio Middle School students collaborated with Jill Lindel, the American Indian education culture and language specialist, to learn about indigenous cultures, focusing on Ojibway and Dakota traditions. They created fleece tie blankets, which were smudged and donated to a homeless shelter serving the Native community. This project aimed to provide warmth and reflect the Ojibway phrase “wabu Nik,” meaning “he or she makes a blanket.”

Several schools engaged in festive activities, such as Rush Creek Elementary’s all-school Bingo event and Elm Creek and Fernbrook Park students decorating gingerbread houses before the holiday. At Park Center Senior High School, Mariah Paw, an international student, was recognized for earning a full-ride scholarship to Stanford University. Paw shared her aspirations, saying, “I’ve been here my whole life… I just want to expand and grow somewhere.”

The meeting also addressed renovation plans across the district. The Executive Director of Finance and Operations, John Morstead, led discussions on bid awards for several elementary sites and the Educational Service Center. The district is embarking on the “Build a Better Future” process, transitioning from design to finalizing bid documents for various projects.

Further renovations were discussed, including updates to media centers and flex room spaces in multiple elementary schools, where each school had the opportunity to customize their plans. The emphasis was on maintaining a theme of openness and collaboration. A board member commented on the renovations’ quality across all sites, and the estimated cost of new furniture was discussed, with plans to recycle, sell, or donate old pieces while integrating new items.

The consent agenda passed unanimously, including financial reports and construction bid approvals. An action item regarding gifts to the district, totaling $227,484 for the month, was also approved with gratitude expressed for the support from partners.