Brian and Melissa Greg, who coach the high school mountain bike team, presented a case for developing trails in the school forest. The team has expanded significantly, increasing from seven to 18 participants over the past year, highlighting a rising interest in mountain biking among the youth. They stressed that current trails at local venues like Pin Cushion and Britain Peak are too challenging for beginners, particularly elementary school students. The proposed trails in the school forest, which is relatively flat and underutilized, would provide a safer, more accessible environment for novice bikers.

The vision for these trails includes a design akin to a “crushed gravel trail in the wreck park,” which would serve multiple purposes. Beyond mountain biking, the trails would accommodate cross-country runners, who currently practice on city streets, and could be used for outdoor education classes. The proposal also includes winter activities like Nordic skiing. By importing gravel, the Gregs argue, the trails would require less maintenance and provide a cleaner, safer environment.

Concerns regarding potential conflicts between different user groups, such as bikers and runners, were addressed with an emphasis on planning and communication to ensure safety and accessibility for all. The board also considered the broader educational goals for the school forest, particularly in light of an upcoming referendum that could allocate funds for outdoor education initiatives. Ensuring that trail development aligns with these goals was deemed essential to avoid conflicts with existing educational uses of the forest.

The financial aspect of the project was a point of discussion, with the recognition that fundraising would be challenging without a finalized plan. The Gregs expressed their intention to secure funding and partnerships, and the board discussed potential community fundraising and student volunteer labor as cost-reducing measures. The necessity of conducting an environmental impact assessment and coordinating with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for the certified school forest was emphasized, alongside considerations of property ownership and wetland management.

Parallel to the trail discussion, the board addressed a $250,000 grant for outdoor education projects, contingent on a referendum. If successful, this could fund outdoor learning spaces, trails, and bridges. The potential synergy between board member ideas and available funding sources was noted, with optimism about future developments.

In another update, board members considered a switch to a private vendor, NIS, for the Minnesota paid leave program. NIS offered a more favorable cost split compared to the state plan, and the board expressed satisfaction with NIS’s customer service. The motion to proceed with NIS was approved unanimously.

Sports updates provided a glimpse into the school’s competitive spirit. The boys’ cross-country team qualified for the state meet following a second-place finish at the section meet, while the varsity swim and football teams remained undefeated. Homecoming festivities, including the crowning of Lexi Palmer and Nicholas Barber as queen and king, added a celebratory tone.

The meeting also included updates on professional development, with a focus on curriculum alignment and indigenous education. The superintendent reported on a construction project, emphasizing the importance of November for bid openings and reminding voters about the upcoming referendum, which could influence future planning.