The primary focus of the meeting was the presentation of a community survey by Peter Leatherman, which sampled 500 randomly selected residents within the school district. The survey’s margin of error was plus or minus 4.5%, and it provided insight into the community’s perspectives on local educational issues. Notably, 87% of respondents rated the quality of education favorably, exceeding the statewide average of 78%. However, there was a decline in “excellent” ratings for education quality, now at 11%. Residents identified a lack of funding as one notable issue facing the district, with 26% of respondents citing it as a concern.

The survey also addressed the financial stress experienced by residents, with 45% indicating they felt financially stressed. Despite this, nearly 90% of residents acknowledged the value of their investment in Brainerd schools, and 74% agreed that past referendum funds were utilized appropriately. Financial management within the district received a 62% favorable rating, surpassing the state average of around 52%. However, there was notable resistance to potential tax increases, with 33% of respondents opposed, signaling challenges for future funding discussions.

In addressing potential funding measures, the Board discussed a proposed $5.5 million operating levy aimed at maintaining class sizes and programs. This levy would result in a median property tax increase of $18 per month, or approximately $218 annually. While support for the levy was around 59%, with 35% opposed, the intensity of opinions was low.

The meeting also revisited the district’s health insurance challenges, with a decision to increase premiums by 3% due to anticipated claims reductions and a competitive bid process leading to a transition to Health Partners in Crumbdale. This decision was based on more competitive reinsurance rates and the ability to reclaim more pharmacy rebate dollars. The telehealth program, Healthiest You, was highlighted for its role in reducing claims, allowing employees to access care and prescriptions without costly urgent care visits.

The discussion of health insurance costs revealed that 2,429 members had incurred $9.9 million in claims, with 55 members accounting for $8.5 million of that total. The Board acknowledged the typical nature of claims distribution, often driven by a small percentage of high-cost claims, and emphasized the importance of reinsurance policies to mitigate financial risks.

Further discussions centered on the need for clear communication with the community regarding the implications of budget cuts and the necessity of additional funding to maintain educational services. The Board recognized the importance of engaging with both parents and the larger community, including the significant empty nester demographic, to build support for potential tax levies.

Additionally, the Board addressed curriculum updates, specifically the presentation of the 9-12 English Language Arts curriculum aligned with new Minnesota standards. The curriculum development process emphasized critical thinking skills, diverse perspectives, and the inclusion of indigenous experiences. The Board also discussed the adoption of “Common Lit,” an online resource to aid instruction, highlighting its affordability compared to traditional textbooks and its alignment with the new standards.

The meeting concluded with a resolution approval, the first reading of MSBA policy 512 concerning school-sponsored student publications, and discussions about facility fees and the potential for serving food and beverages at the Gazi Center for the Arts.