The most significant item on the agenda was the presentation of survey results regarding employee indicators and organizational metrics. Superintendent Theresa Battle and Joe Bird, Vice President of Operations at Infinity Systems, presented the findings. The survey, which saw a response rate of 72.5%, aimed to assess alignment across the district rather than employee satisfaction. The results revealed that 32.5% of respondents strongly agreed with alignment measures, while nearly 40% were neutral or disagreed. Mr. Bird emphasized the need to improve these scores. A comparison with other K-12 districts showed Burnsville-Eagan-Savage performing better in several areas, yet creativity and communication were highlighted as needing improvement. The board focused on leveraging the district’s strengths, such as accountability and mission alignment, while addressing gaps to enhance overall employee engagement and satisfaction.

In addition to the survey discussion, the implementation of foundational literacy programs under the READ Act was another focal point. The board expressed enthusiasm for the participation of 28 educators in literacy training sessions. The director of instruction and assessment reported that 4,959 students had been screened for literacy, with 51% meeting fall benchmarks. Plans for further assessments in January were also outlined. The board discussed the importance of ongoing professional development for educators and a three-year implementation plan for new literacy curricula.

The meeting also included a review of the district’s financial status. The general fund saw a revenue increase of approximately 16.4% in 2024, primarily due to state funding increases and local property tax revenue. A positive variance in the budget resulted in an unexpected $16.3 million increase in the fund balance. Expenditures rose by $11.9 million, driven largely by salaries and benefits, yet remained under budget by 2.8%.

Additional topics of interest included the approval of policy changes regarding student medication, disability non-discrimination, service animals, and special education instructional services. These updates align the district with recent legislative changes and further protect the rights of students with disabilities. The board also discussed the READ Act’s impact on literacy and the extensive training provided to educators to implement new instructional strategies effectively.

Superintendent Battle and the board members also delved into long-range facility planning, considering enrollment trends and the potential closure of some schools due to declining numbers. Discussions on community engagement and the need for data-driven decisions in facility investments were emphasized to avoid unnecessary expenditures.