One item at the meeting was the “Excellence in Action” segment, where Dr. Ann Marie Leland, director of community education and strategic partnerships, along with Kim Eley and Laura Pongoth, announced a new name for the early learning center. This change aims to restore the family center’s legacy, a facility that has been instrumental to the community. Leland emphasized its historical significance, noting its role as a cherished gathering place for families. Eley explained that the name change reflects the center’s diverse program offerings, serving over 500 families annually, often marking their first interaction with Edina Public Schools. Pongoth plans to adapt to the evolving needs of families, including introducing comprehensive childcare programming next summer, which aims to support children’s academic, social, and emotional success.

The board members expressed enthusiasm about this initiative, recognizing its potential impact on the community.

The meeting also featured an extensive update on the district’s ongoing construction projects, presented by Mert Woodard, director of finance and operations. Woodard highlighted the summer’s busy schedule, with over 16 projects underway, part of a long-term facilities maintenance revenue plan. Notably, Edina High School is undergoing a $25 million renovation funded by local taxpayer dollars. This three-year project includes mechanical system upgrades for improved heating efficiency and safety. The Fick Auditorium is receiving updates, such as new flooring, electrical instruments, and lighting, with photos shared to illustrate the progress.

Woodard also addressed restroom renovations, transitioning from gang restrooms to individual stalls, and highlighted the installation of new mechanical systems crucial for the building’s operation. Beyond the high school, the Edina Community Center is seeing tennis court rehabilitations, with plans to relocate lower courts for better maintenance and user experience. This $1.3 million project also considers stormwater retention, to be discussed in future board meetings.

Additional construction updates included the repaving project for tennis courts, projected to complete by summer 2026. In the interim, Creek Valley Elementary’s facilities will be used. Normandale Elementary’s deteriorating turf will undergo repairs to extend its life by three years, with changes to surrounding materials to prevent further damage. Cornelia Elementary is experiencing tuckpointing of exterior brick walls and restroom renovations, with temporary measures in place to ensure continued usability.

Creek Valley Elementary’s loading dock is undergoing unplanned repairs to improve safety and usability. The transportation center is preparing for the arrival of two new electric buses, funded mostly through grants, with electrical work for chargers underway. Other minor projects include Valley View’s parking lot resurfacing and restroom repairs, as well as a lighting replacement project aimed at minimizing student disruption.

Director Barry inquired about the potential impact of inflation and supply chain issues on project timelines and costs. Board members acknowledged the extensive efforts of the facilities team, expressing gratitude for their work in preparing for the new school year.

The meeting concluded with the board approving several previously discussed policies without opposition and deciding to enter a closed session to discuss labor negotiations. This session, authorized by Minnesota statutes, focused on negotiation strategies and proposals for teacher bargaining units.