The most notable discussion revolved around the purchase of an automated lawnmower, a decision motivated by the district’s inability to fill vacant maintenance positions. The board discussed the advantages of the new equipment, which include increased efficiency and the ability to cover large areas without manual operation. A representative explained that despite efforts to hire additional staff over the past month, no applications were received. The automated mower, demonstrated in Milbank, is capable of independently mowing large fields and sending reports on any unmowed areas, reducing the workload on the current maintenance staff. The board acknowledged the cost implications, including a yearly service fee, but concluded that the one-time funds available justified the investment, particularly in light of the labor shortages.

Another primary focus of the meeting was adjusting the daily rate for substitute teachers. The board set the rate at $160 per day. This decision came after reviewing current rates and considering the impact of recent legislative changes concerning employee benefits. The board’s goal is to attract more substitutes by offering a straightforward and appealing pay structure, eliminating the previous tiered system that was perceived as ineffective. The need for competitive pay was emphasized, with a consensus that substitutes often choose assignments based on pay rates.