The superintendent search took center stage as the board prepared to interview candidates, facilitated by Barb Dorne from the Minnesota School Boards Association. Dorne emphasized a structured interview process to ensure fairness and consistency among the candidates, who were each assigned specific questions to be asked by board members. One of the candidates, Chip Ranken, stressed his deep personal connection to the Brainerd community and extensive experience in education and leadership. Ranken shared his background. He described the opportunity as his final career step.

Another candidate outlined his experience as a teacher and administrator, including a tenure as superintendent at Menowaska. He focused on data-driven decision-making, particularly in student behavior management, by implementing Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). He discussed the reduction of discipline referrals and improved board dynamics through transparent communication and strategic team-building practices. His approach involved using consultants to enhance board interactions and maintaining a split-vote-free environment for several years. He expressed a commitment to fostering a strong relationship with the Brainerd School Board, if selected, by applying similar strategies to support collaboration and trust.

Concerns were raised about recent budget cuts affecting classroom environments, with teachers reporting high stress levels and low morale. Despite these challenges, there was recognition of teachers’ dedication, with high student approval rates and above-average attendance. The board considered the need for strategic budget allocation, utilizing data analytics to understand classroom dynamics and improve educational outcomes. Specific focus was placed on reducing class sizes and addressing the behavioral issues that hinder academic achievement.

The discussion also touched upon the district’s academic program, with an emphasis on creating a coherent curriculum from pre-kindergarten through high school. The necessity of a guaranteed viable curriculum was highlighted. Superintendent Reagan shared insights from his tenure at Menowaska, where he implemented initiatives to enhance reading instruction and provided extensive teacher training. He underscored the board’s role in resourcing these curricula and the importance of strategic planning to address academic performance, particularly in reading and math proficiency.

Another topic was student safety and mental health, as the board examined the impact of technology and social media on adolescent stress levels. Concerns regarding the use of Chromebooks and cell phones in schools were discussed, with suggestions to implement restrictions and protect recess time to promote mental well-being. The presence of mental health practitioners in schools was noted as essential, along with structured educational approaches to address these challenges.

The meeting concluded with a call for a referendum within the next two years to address the district’s financial needs, emphasizing that budget cuts alone would not suffice. The board recognized the need for substantial supports to manage large class sizes and diverse student needs. Communication and relationship-building with the next superintendent were deemed critical for future success, with expectations for transparency and effective governance.