Principal Ken Doster of Big Fork School detailed the school’s progress and future plans, emphasizing the critical role of community involvement in educational success. He reported on the ongoing work of the teaching staff and leadership team to prepare for early dismissals on Wednesdays, focusing on improving student outcomes in reading, mathematics, and science. Emphasis was placed on fostering a positive school climate and enhancing critical thinking skills among students. Data from winter screenings are being used to tailor instruction, with a particular focus on foundational reading skills for younger students and mathematics proficiency at the elementary level.

Doster also highlighted the expansion of the course catalog and increased access to online courses, providing students with opportunities to earn college credit. The school is particularly proud of its career internship program, which has successfully placed students in construction and manufacturing roles, with plans to expand into healthcare. Partnerships with local businesses like Big Fork Valley are seen as vital to this initiative.

Acknowledging the importance of community engagement, Doster discussed efforts by the Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS) team, which includes analyzing student survey data to better understand and address student needs. This has led to personalized support for students requiring additional social-emotional assistance.

In addition to educational updates, the board meeting included the approval of December 2025 claims totaling $7,389,678.17 and the recognition of retiring staff members David Calingerie and Katherine Peac Burley, whose combined service to the district totals over five decades. Their retirement was met with gratitude for their long-standing contributions.

The board also approved contracts with ASME Local 2071 and the educational support professional local 4850, which included financial adjustments and provisions for additional training time. These contracts reflect ongoing efforts to navigate budgetary challenges while maintaining strong partnerships with staff.

Community events were another focal point of the meeting. Plans for a “Susicle fundraiser event,” scheduled for March 2nd by the Boys and Girls Club, were shared. The event will be a talent show, free to attend, with audience members voting for their favorite acts. Additionally, the Endowment Club plans to host a staff appreciation event around Valentine’s Day, providing cookies and thank-yous to staff members.

Board members reported on their attendance at the Minnesota School Board Association conference, where sessions on new math guidelines and artificial intelligence were informative. The conference underscored shifts in math education, emphasizing data analysis over traditional subjects like geometry and trigonometry.

The meeting also included a report on an arts council meeting focused on recruiting new board members and an announcement of a performance by Soul Asylum at the Refe Center on April 1st, with tickets already 60% sold.

Sports updates from a student representative detailed the performances of various teams, including girls’ hockey, boys’ basketball, and boys’ swimming and diving. The student council is preparing for the semi-formal snowball dance, part of winter homecoming week, featuring a rock paper scissors tournament. The Key Club’s community efforts were also noted, particularly a hygiene drive benefiting local organizations.

Superintendent Matt Grose expressed condolences for Julie Robinson, a respected special education teacher who recently passed away. He acknowledged her contributions to the district and extended sympathies on behalf of the board.

Future community engagement meetings will focus on school finance. The district threat and emergency response team continues to work on establishing a centralized student reunification process for emergencies. The captain’s council, comprised of leaders from student activities, is engaging in discussions about school culture.