The most notable development was the board’s acceptance of a $99,999 grant through a partnership with Habitat for Humanity. This substantial grant is earmarked primarily for purchasing building materials, with $20,000 specifically allocated for acquiring new building equipment for the school district. Board members expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, highlighting the potential job opportunities it could create for students enrolled in courses related to construction and building trades. This grant is seen as a timely and beneficial contribution to the district, providing both educational and practical benefits.

In tandem with the grant, the board approved several updates to the student-parent handbooks for the 2025-2026 school year. These changes were reviewed by the policy and education committees. Noteworthy updates at North Elementary School include mandatory background checks for volunteers and clarifications on attendance tracking. New language was added to outline expectations for student behavior at athletic events. South Elementary’s handbook updates focused on grading scales, safety protocols for picking up students, and detailed drop-off and pick-up procedures to enhance student safety and streamline operations.

High school policies also received attention, with a significant revision banning cell phone use in academic areas, although allowing them during passing times and lunch with teacher discretion. The policy aims to minimize distractions and enhance the learning environment. The board engaged in a discussion about the widespread use of mobile devices among students, noting that nearly all high school students own cell phones, whereas the prevalence of smartwatches is lower.

Crisis management plans were another focal point of the meeting, as the board reviewed and approved updates to these essential protocols. The revised plans introduced three crisis management teams: a district emergency response team, a building emergency response team for each school, and a building medical emergency response team. Enhanced communication protocols were outlined, detailing the chain of command during emergencies and the communication tools employed within the district. The board appreciated the clarity and consistency these updates bring to managing potential crises.

Additionally, the board deliberated on the adult meal and second entree prices for the upcoming academic year, deciding to maintain the current pricing pending guidance from the Minnesota Department of Education. The board also approved contracts for behavior and reading support assistance, facilitated by a $142,000 grant from the MDE. These contracts are designed to bolster academic and behavioral support, preventing unnecessary referrals to special education assessments. The contracts are one-year agreements, with the potential for extension based on future guidance.

The meeting further addressed a resolution for the Minnesota School Boards Association legislative platform, proposing the inclusion of pre-kindergarten students in the pupil count for funding purposes. This initiative aims to enhance revenue without merely increasing funding amounts and recognizes pre-kindergarten teachers as part of the educational workforce. The resolution received unanimous approval from the board.

Another topic was the proposed changes to the breakfast and recess schedule at South Elementary. The new plan allows students to enjoy morning playtime until 7:55 a.m. before having breakfast, aligning with Minnesota legislation that offers free breakfast to all students. This change eliminates the previous snack program, replacing it with a more nutritious breakfast offering. The board discussed the logistical benefits of this shift, including reduced administrative burdens and improved nutrition for students.

Concerns about potential delays in ongoing construction projects were acknowledged, attributed to supply chain issues and equipment failures. Despite these challenges, the projects remain on budget, with the board committed to monitoring inflation and material costs closely. The successful completion of summer programs and preparations for the new school year were also highlighted, alongside the addition of new teachers and enhancements to school facilities.