West Central Area School Board Reviews Tax Levy, Student Achievement, and New Educational Initiatives
- Meeting Overview:
The West Central Area School Board’s recent meeting focused on approving a modest increase in the tax levy for the 2025 payable 2026 period, enhancing student achievement metrics in reading and math, and introducing new educational initiatives to support comprehensive student development. The board also addressed policy updates, personnel changes, and community education growth.
The board’s deliberations began with a detailed presentation on the truth and taxation hearing, essential for compliance with statutory requirements before adopting a new tax levy. The proposed levy for 2025 payable 2026 amounts to approximately $2.78 million. Integral to this discussion was the breakdown of the district’s financial structure, highlighting funds such as the general fund, food service, and debt service. Notably, the general fund is set to experience a 12.25% increase, reflective of adjustments due to debt service obligations.
Equally significant was the focus on student achievement as part of the comprehensive achievement and civic readiness (CACR) report. The board outlined ambitious goals for improving student proficiency rates in reading and math. These targets apply to students in grades three through eight. Additionally, the board discussed strategies for ensuring students are “college and career ready,” maintaining a high standard with 98% of students meeting the established benchmarks. Plans to address achievement gaps and promote lifelong learning were also detailed, with a goal of having 80% of seniors engage in learning experiences outside the classroom.
In addressing curriculum and instructional practices, the board highlighted the implementation of a new English language arts curriculum across grades K-12 and the ongoing training of teachers and paraprofessionals. The curriculum advisory committee, including parents, plays a role in gathering community feedback and shaping educational strategies. The board also emphasized the importance of student engagement and attendance, linking these factors to overall academic success. The introduction of the Justin’s Renaissance framework aims to foster a positive school culture, with regular surveys planned to gauge its impact.
The board’s review of policy updates included changes to video recording practices and school meal policies. The removal of the term “surveillance” in favor of “recording” in video policies marks a notable shift, as does the clarification of meal service procedures. These revisions reflect a broader effort to align district policies with current regulations and community standards.
Personnel matters were also addressed, with the board approving the resignations of a paraprofessional and a payroll manager, effective at the end of the calendar year. The board expressed gratitude for their contributions and swiftly approved their departures.
Community education initiatives were presented. Plans for parenting classes and expanded opportunities for young learners were also discussed.
The meeting concluded with the adoption of a resolution to establish combined polling places for potential elections. The board also set a date for their next organizational meeting.
School Board Officials:
Kayla Sanstead, Miah Ulrich, Ryan Saurer, Josh Ulrich, Claire Vincent, Nathan Porter, Darrin Grosz
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
12/03/2025
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Recording Published:
12/03/2025
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Duration:
63 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Grant County
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Towns:
Barrett, Delaware Township, Elbow Lake, Elbow Lake Township, Elk Lake Township, Erdahl Township, Hoffman, Holmes City Township, Kensington, Land Township, Lawrence Township, Lien Township, Nora Township, North Ottawa Township, Pomme De Terre Township, Roseville Township, Sanford Township, Solem Township, Stony Brook Township, Swan Lake Township, Urness Township, Wendell
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