In a development, the board announced a new agreement with an occupational therapy provider, Jean Vern. This new arrangement involves a traveling occupational therapist, similar to the model used by traveling nurses, and is expected to enhance the support available to students. The contract is set for the school year, with plans to evaluate its effectiveness in meeting student needs. This transition is anticipated to be beneficial, allowing for more consistent and direct interaction with students requiring occupational therapy services.

Addressing mental health needs was another critical agenda item. The district will receive $10,000 annually for the next three years, specifically dedicated to mental health services. This funding is supported by partnerships, including a $5,000 contribution from the Healthcare Foundation for the current year. The Northeast Service Co-op Board has prioritized mental health resources, recognizing their importance over smaller mini-grants. The board expressed gratitude for these partnerships, emphasizing the positive impact these services have on the educational environment. Teachers have acknowledged the value of mental health resources, viewing them as essential to supporting student well-being.

The current funding covers approximately three-quarters of the anticipated costs if the service is fully utilized. There remains a need to hire a second mental health provider, as evidenced by an existing waiting list for services, although no applicants have come forward for this role. The board discussed comparisons with previous districts, where more was spent on mental health services.

In financial matters, the board reviewed and approved the fiscal 25 budget, which was presented as balanced by utilizing assigned funds for buses, technology, and curriculum. The budget narrative underwent minimal changes, aside from minor grammatical corrections. The strategic roadmap aims to maintain fiscal balance, with a focus on managing resources effectively. Additionally, the board discussed the Food Service budget, noting its solid standing despite historical limitations on fund balances. The year is expected to conclude with a balanced budget.

The board also tackled community education funding, highlighting its reliance on grants and fluctuating revenues. There was a discussion on identifying potential revenue sources to address an expected deficit in this area. Adjustments in debt service payments were noted, with plans to reflect necessary changes moving forward.

Significant contracts were approved during the meeting, including the 2024-2025 service contract agreements with Greater Minnesota Family Services and a contract with Arc Services for payroll and accounting support. The board noted a minimal fee increase of 1.2% for Arc Services, and discussed the importance of maintaining Arc’s capabilities to support smaller districts effectively, especially in scenarios where they might lose personnel.

A critical discussion on the 2024-2026 contract for oil and propane services took place, where the board reviewed bids and ultimately approved a contract with the sole qualified provider. The board considered the possibility of reconfiguring the bus garage for larger delivery trucks to potentially reduce costs in the future.

Other notable updates included the relaunch of the website Vikingsvision.org, providing details about the bond referendum and serving as a resource for community members. The superintendent reported an increase in health insurance rates by approximately 17%, attributed to claims exceeding revenue from premiums. This matter is to be revisited in future negotiations. Staffing changes within the Grand Portage Band were also discussed, with Margaret Newton now involved in Ojibway language instruction at Sawtooth and GES.