A standout moment in the meeting was the recognition of graduating seniors who earned bilingual seals. Dr. Amy Luckner presented the bilingual seals program, noting that 114 students from the 2025 graduating class achieved these seals, potentially earning them 314 college credits. The program, adopted by 83 school districts in Minnesota, assesses students’ skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Spanish was the most common language among recipients, although students also excelled in French, Amharic, Chinese, German, Oromo, Somali, and Yoruba. Each recipient was individually acknowledged, culminating in a celebratory photo with board members.

Attention then turned to the middle school after-school program, the “flight” program, which has been a major success in its first year. Funded by a three-year grant of $500,000 per year, the program operates at John Glenn and Sky View middle schools and serves over 573 students. It offers more than 50 club options, including art, chess, fencing, and cultural clubs like the Black Student Alliance. This program aims to enhance student engagement and participation through a diverse array of activities, fostering a sense of community and leadership among students. The program also collaborates with organizations such as Junior Achievement to provide financial literacy education, and it involves high school students as club leaders to serve as role models.

A particular highlight was the creation of the Hawk Shop at Sky View, a student-run pop-up company that raised over $1,000 through the sale of drinks and snacks, with a portion of the proceeds donated to charity. This initiative not only developed financial literacy but also encouraged collaboration among various clubs.

Concerns about sustained funding beyond the current grant period were addressed, with board members expressing the need to explore additional grants to maintain the program’s viability. Questions were also raised about cultural competence among mentors and the accessibility of clubs for students.

The meeting also covered significant construction and sustainability projects within the district. The Tartan High School renovation, funded by a 2019 bond referendum, is nearing completion with new facilities, including gender-neutral bathrooms and an updated theater. The Harmony Learning Center’s renovation is halfway finished, with plans for a new addition to the Cronin building. These projects are on schedule and under budget, and community engagement sessions are planned to gather input on future designs.

In a move towards sustainability, the district has embraced solar power, with initial installations at Castle and Eagle Point schools already operational. The project is expected to save over $85,000 in energy costs in the first year, with more installations planned. A STEM class contributed by constructing a ceremonial light switch for “power up” ceremonies, highlighting student involvement in sustainability efforts.

The board also addressed curriculum changes, particularly the adoption of a new middle school social studies curriculum aligned with Minnesota state standards. This curriculum emphasizes critical thinking and evaluation over rote memorization. It includes a personal finance course, which will be aligned with state frameworks to ensure consistency and clarity for students.

The Superintendent’s report touched on policy adjustments in response to federal Title IX regulations, with the district reverting to 2020 regulations following recent court decisions. The board also approved a monetary donation for adult enrichment activities and an increase in adult meal prices to comply with state regulations.

In closing, board communications celebrated the achievements of students and staff, including recent musical productions and graduation ceremonies.