The board received a substantial energy rebate check of $45,460, presented by Travis Schmidt, general manager of Moorhead Public Service. This rebate is part of the Bright Energy Solutions program, which aims to enhance energy efficiency across the district. The funds were allocated for energy-saving initiatives at the new high school, with the potential for an estimated $50,000 in annual savings. The board also considered future projects such as retrofitting lighting at Horizon East, promising further utility savings.

The meeting also focused heavily on staffing adjustments prompted by changes in student enrollment. The board discussed a resolution to discontinue and reduce certain educational programs and positions. A key decision involved reducing a 0.5 full-time equivalent (FTE) position for a Chinese teacher serving grades 9 through 12. With only about 40 students enrolled in these classes and the retirement of the current teacher, the board viewed this adjustment as necessary. Questions were raised about the impact on the retiring teacher’s benefits, but it was clarified that her retirement plan would remain unaffected.

Furthermore, a preliminary staffing plan for the 2025-2026 school year was presented, highlighting reductions of 2.0 FTE at the elementary level and 2.5 FTE at the high school level. These cuts were primarily due to enrollment projections, financial constraints, and legislative funding changes. However, a new custodial position was proposed to address increased facility needs, along with a 1.0 FTE addition in speech-language pathology to reduce reliance on contracted services. The board was assured that these changes would not impact current employees, as most reductions would occur through natural attrition.

During the meeting, the board addressed contracts related to the E-rate Category 2 program. This included approving a contract with Marco from Fargo, North Dakota, for Cisco 48 Port PoE Plus switches. The board was satisfied with the competitive bidding process, which attracted more vendors than usual. The contract, valued at $18,200, includes DNA essential licensing and select Cisco switch accessories.

The board also reviewed and adopted several policy updates. A new policy on personal electronic communication devices was approved, reflecting ongoing discussions at the state level about cell phone usage in schools. Revisions to policy 413, concerning harassment and violence, were also approved to enhance clarity and align with model policies from the Minnesota School Boards Association.

Legislative updates were shared, including a board member’s testimony at the state capital regarding a bill sponsored by Senator Kupek. This bill aims to increase funding for schools, which has remained unchanged since 2014, highlighting the need for financial equity across districts. The board member’s contribution was acknowledged as an important step in advocating for legislative support.