The literacy initiative, which was a primary focus of the meeting, involves a two-phase training program designed to improve literacy instruction through structured methods. Phase One will engage approximately 390 educators, encompassing all elementary teachers, as well as fifth and sixth grade teachers, and K-12 special education instructors. This phase aims to organize teachers into 15 cohorts, facilitating peer learning and fostering vertical team collaboration from pre-K through the early elementary grades. Phase Two, set for the following year, will concentrate on pre-learning in areas such as Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) and data literacy, particularly tailored for secondary educators.

The initiative seeks to address literacy deficiencies across the district, highlighted by recent data from kindergarten assessments where 73% of students were reading at or above grade level by the end of the year. The structured literacy approach is expected to unify teaching methods and improve literacy outcomes, with the leadership cohort having already commenced training in May.

Budget discussions formed another crucial element of the meeting. The board approved a preliminary budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, noting a significant deficit initially projected at 4 million but later reduced to 2.9 million through staff reductions and attrition. Despite these adjustments, the budget still faces pressure from rising salary and benefit costs, projected to increase by approximately 3.5 million. These financial strains highlight the district’s reliance on strategic planning to maintain fiscal stability, with potential discussions on a referendum slated for future meetings.

The meeting also featured the approval of a new K-4 media technology curriculum, designed to align with evolving technology standards and foster digital citizenship among students. Based on ISTE standards, the curriculum aims to integrate technology skills into various subject areas. The district’s focus on media technology is aimed at addressing Minnesota’s historically low ranking in computer science education and preparing students for a technology-driven future.

In addition, the board approved a new math curriculum to replace the aging Digits program, with pilots conducted for both Illustrative Math and Reveal Math. The adoption of Reveal Math, which offers both activity-based and guided exploration pathways, promises to create a more interactive learning environment for middle school students.

Superintendent Heidi Han’s impending retirement was another focal point, with board members reflecting on her contributions to the district. Han’s tenure was characterized by a focus on student achievement, safety, and community relationships, with personal anecdotes highlighting her impact on the Brainerd community. Her retirement marks the end of an era for the district, as the board looks to navigate future challenges with new leadership.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the district’s anti-bullying campaign, which includes “interruptor training” to empower staff and students to address bullying effectively. The initiative emphasizes consistent messaging across the district, fostering a culture of intervention and support. The board also addressed other administrative matters, including insurance renewals and the approval of handbooks for the upcoming school years, reflecting ongoing efforts to manage operational complexities.