The board’s most pressing discussion centered on the proposed referendum for school facility improvements, which aims to secure $54.4 million for critical projects, including facility upgrades and the renovation of the Ellis pool. This initiative follows extensive assessments of school facilities and a community survey that identified taxpayer priorities. The referendum, planned for the November 2025 ballot, requires a June submission of review and comment to the Minnesota Department of Education. Board representatives emphasized the need to inform the community about the proposed changes and associated tax implications, outlining efforts such as mailings and meetings to engage residents.

The meeting also addressed a concern: the district’s low graduation rates and student absenteeism. During the public comment section, a delegation highlighted that 33 students from the recent senior class did not graduate, with attendance rates at the high school reported to be as low as 59.3%. The delegation criticized the administration for a perceived lack of care and disconnect between staff and leadership, attributing these issues to a focus on administrative processes over student engagement. They advocated for reinstating programs that foster personal connections between students and teachers.

The board reviewed several initiatives aimed at addressing these challenges, including a report on the BAR model’s impact at the high school level. This model, which focuses on attendance and academic performance, has shown promising improvements. Failure rates among ninth graders have decreased, and behavior incidents have dropped significantly. The report highlighted the importance of consistent student attendance for academic success and the need for continued focus on chronic absenteeism.

Superintendent Dr. Joey Page presented updates on various district initiatives, including the introduction of the Packer Profile seminar for ninth graders, which aims to help students set goals and acquire essential life skills.

Another topic was the establishment of the superintendent’s student advisory council, which seeks to engage students in dialogue about district successes and areas for improvement.

The meeting also celebrated community achievements, such as the induction of alumni into the Austin High School Music Hall of Fame and the recognition of Kristoff Dundas, a finalist for the Minnesota Teacher of the Year award. These recognitions highlighted the district’s dedication to fostering a supportive and inclusive educational environment.

In addition, the board discussed the completion of a comprehensive community health assessment, which identified priorities such as access to care, wellness, and housing. Plans for a community health improvement plan rollout in the fall were mentioned, with a focus on addressing these issues.

The board’s discussions extended to curriculum consistency and the identification of gifted and talented students. Efforts to ensure a unified curriculum across different educational spaces were highlighted, alongside initiatives to support advanced academic programming. These efforts aim to align with new state standards and ensure equitable access to educational opportunities for all students.

The meeting concluded with a review of various donations from community members and organizations, which were approved as per school board policy. These contributions support athletic scholarships and educational programs.