The meeting opened with a review of the district’s achievement and civic readiness report, replacing the previous World’s Best Workforce report. Superintendent Kent Pekel introduced this report as a critical tool for evaluating the district’s progress toward established educational goals. Chief Academic Officer Mona Perkins presented data showing positive trends in reading and math over three years, although some areas, such as third-grade literacy achievements, faced challenges. The report highlighted efforts to improve kindergarten readiness, despite inherent limitations in influencing readiness levels before children enter school. Perkins noted that early childhood initiatives are crucial in building foundational skills, with programs like early childhood family education and public preschool serving children from birth to age five.

Teachers shared classroom experiences that illustrate the integration of early literacy and community involvement. One teacher described an activity where students engaged in practical literacy skills by creating a grocery list. Another teacher used a community garden to teach about growth and gardening, emphasizing experiential learning.

The board also discussed how to better engage the approximately 60 to 65% of children not currently reached by early childhood programs. Recognizing the need for greater outreach, board members expressed interest in supporting efforts to expand program access, including plans to relocate the Mighty Oaks Early Learning Center to a larger facility, which would accommodate more students.

Financial management was another focal point, with discussions on the fiscal year 2025 audit report. Superintendent Pekel highlighted that revenues had exceeded expenditures, creating an unexpected surplus due to unfilled positions. This surplus could potentially reduce the projected budget deficit of $13.4 million to $8.4 million. Director of Finance Andy Croxett praised the district’s financial management, noting a sixth consecutive clean audit with no written findings related to compliance or internal controls. This achievement reflects the district’s strong oversight and strategic financial planning, despite challenges such as declining federal funding.

The meeting also addressed the district’s financial health, revealing an increase in the fund balance of approximately $16.3 million for 2025, attributed to changes in revenues and expenditures. The board reaffirmed its policy of maintaining a minimum unassigned fund balance of 8%, with current levels aligning with state averages. Discussions included managing long-term liabilities and utilizing reserves for necessary projects, such as kitchen remodels at Mayo High School.

In a notable recognition, the board celebrated the contributions of John Carlson, who is retiring as Chief Administrative Officer after 15 years. Board members expressed deep appreciation for his leadership and ability to simplify complex financial topics, which aided in passing referendums and maintaining clean audits. Superintendent Pekel acknowledged Carlson’s impact on financial integration within the district, benefiting both students and staff. The search for a successor with school finance expertise is underway.

The meeting concluded with updates on scholarship opportunities for aspiring educators and the board’s approval of the annual inventory of fixed assets. The latter included items such as playground equipment and irrigation systems, which contribute to the district’s general fund through sales. The board also approved the 2026-27 course registration guide for grades 9 through 12 and a proposal to name the John Marshall basketball court after Kerwin Engelhart, recognizing his contributions as an athletic director and coach.