Foremost among the agenda items was the ratification of three labor agreements presented by the executive director of human resources, Julie Coffee. Each contract, set to cover the years 2025-2027, proposed salary increases and updates to retirement plans. The teacher labor agreement included a 2% increase in the first year and a 3% increase in the second year, along with updates to the 403b plan. The principal labor agreement featured a 2.5% increase in the first year and a 2.75% increase in the second year. Finally, the nutrition services labor agreement proposed a 2% increase in the first year and a 3% increase in the second year, with improvements to certification pay and insurance offerings.

Student representatives from Irondale highlighted the marching band’s impressive eighth-place finish at regionals and their fifth consecutive Minnesota class AAA state championship. An Irondale student also shared the success of their recent “trunk or treat” event and a National Honor Society-led blood drive that collected 45 pints. Meanwhile, Mounds View’s student representative shared the success of their Halloween fall fest, which served as a fundraiser for the student council, and the girls’ swim and dive team breaking three records at their recent meet.

The board celebrated the accomplishments of 15 students recognized as National Merit Semi-Finalists and Scholars. These students, introduced by their principal, expressed their ambitions in fields such as engineering, physics, nursing, and political science.

Further highlighting the district’s vibrant extracurricular scene, reports from activities directors and students detailed achievements in various sports and performing arts. The Irondale marching band’s state championship victory and the drama program’s sold-out performances of “The Little Mermaid” were notable highlights, as was the recognition from Hennepin Arts allowing the drama students to perform at the State Theater.

In addition to celebrating student achievements, the board addressed a administrative matter: the resignation of Jonathan Weinhagen from his position. The board announced that applications for the vacancy would be accepted between November 17 and December 12, with interviews scheduled for early January 2026. This vacancy presents an opportunity for new leadership to join the board and contribute to the district’s ongoing efforts.

Superintendent Lennox provided an overview of the district’s financial health, presenting the quarterly budget report for 2025-2026. He explained that revenues and expenditures were tracking as expected for the first quarter, noting that expenditures were lower due to the staffing patterns in July and August. Lennox also detailed adjustments related to the nutrition services fund, highlighting intentional under-projections in response to uncertainties about the free breakfast and lunch program.

The board also canvassed the results of the recent school board elections, approving the abstract of votes and issuing certificates of election to the newly elected members. Gratitude was expressed to all candidates and volunteers involved in the electoral process, emphasizing the community’s strong voter turnout.

In the meeting’s final discussions, Superintendent Lennox reported on the successful passage of a $10 million capital projects levy, which received a 64% approval margin. The levy aims to enhance safety, security, and instructional technology across the district. This funding initiative, supported by district residents, will commence in the 2026-2027 school year and is expected to benefit the district’s infrastructure and educational resources.

The meeting concluded with farewells to Yolanda McGee, who attended her final meeting after choosing not to seek reelection. Her contributions, particularly her advocacy for equity and student welfare, were acknowledged by fellow board members, who praised her directness, humor, and dedication. McGee’s reflections on her tenure underscored her pride in serving as the first person of color on the board and her commitment to continuing advocacy for the district beyond her formal role.