A substantial part of the meeting was devoted to discussing the district’s Advanced Learning Program. The program director provided an overview of the various strategies and initiatives currently in place to support advanced learners. One of the key highlights was the introduction of universal cognitive abilities testing for all second-grade students. This approach aims to identify students for gifted services in a more equitable manner, moving beyond traditional reliance on teacher referrals. As a result, 71 new students were identified for gifted services, with a portion being students who would have been overlooked under the previous system.

Additionally, the Advanced Learning Program includes initiatives such as automatic file reviews for students nearing qualification thresholds and flexible “on ramps” that allow students to enter advanced courses later based on their demonstrated needs for additional challenges. The program works in collaboration with special education teams to ensure that barriers are removed, making the process inclusive and centered around the child’s strengths and needs.

The board also discussed the Navigator program, which serves highly gifted students by providing a classroom experience tailored to their unique academic and social-emotional needs. The program is part of a broader effort to ensure that students have access to education that matches their capabilities. This discussion included insights into staffing and class sizes for specialized programs, emphasizing the importance of maintaining appropriate resources and environments conducive to learning.

Presentations on the Harbor and Launch programs illustrated how the district is fostering independence and community among students requiring special education services. The Harbor program provides individualized schedules and support, engaging students in both academic tasks and life skills training. A tradition called “snacks giving” exemplifies the program’s approach to teaching practical skills in a supportive environment.

Similarly, the Launch program is designed to support students with diverse communication needs, emphasizing relationship-building with general education peers. Through small group sessions tailored to students’ Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), the program aims to develop skills in math, reading, and language comprehension. The initiative also incorporates community-building activities that facilitate connections among students.

In addition to these programs, the meeting touched on various school community initiatives aimed at promoting belonging and inclusivity. The staff belonging committee has implemented a series of activities and communication strategies to reinforce the theme of belonging across the district. Monthly newsletters and participation in the school news station are part of the effort to create a common language and understanding of inclusivity.

A notable initiative was the recent Lunar New Year celebration, which was expanded to involve the entire school community. This event, traditionally limited to the high school’s immersion program, was a new effort to promote cultural understanding and empathy among students. The celebration included student news show presentations and interactive question sessions, fostering a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures.

The board also engaged in discussions about the district’s facilities maintenance plan and the approval of new middle school course proposals. The maintenance plan, required by Minnesota statute, includes updates to school infrastructures such as exterior siding and window replacements, with a projected cost of $4,285,000 for completion by the summer of 2026. The board unanimously approved these plans, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance.

Moreover, the meeting addressed the sale of used iPads and MacBooks, with the board approving the highest bid from Second Life Mac for $13,250. This decision is part of an ongoing effort to manage district resources efficiently.