Little Falls School Board Approves New College in the Schools Program Amid Budget Concerns

Overview: At the recent Little Falls School Board meeting, members discussed changes to the College in the Schools (CIS) program, addressing new regulations and financial implications. The College in the Schools program, a key component of the district’s educational offerings, will face new requirements due to changes mandated by the Higher Learning Commission. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, teachers must hold a master’s degree in their field or possess 18 graduate credits to qualify to teach college-level classes. This shift presents challenges as some current instructors do not meet these criteria, prompting a proposal from the school to partner with Central Lakes College to continue offering and potentially expanding the program.

Little Falls School Board Approves New College in the Schools Program Amid Budget Concerns

Pierz City Council Tackles Cannabis Ordinance, Budget Adjustments, and Golf Course Developments

Overview: The Pierz City Council meeting primarily focused on the approval of cannabis ordinance amendments, budget allocations for 2025, and developments concerning the city’s golf course. Among these issues, the council unanimously approved amendments allowing the retail sales and manufacturing of cannabis in designated city districts, alongside finalizing the 2025 budget with a levy increase of four and a half percent.

Royalton School Board Reviews Proposed Tax Levy and Discusses Budget Challenges

Overview: At the recent Royalton School Board meeting, the primary focus was on the fiscal year 2025 budget and the proposed tax levy, which included a slight increase of 1.29% from the previous year. The discussion also highlighted the complexities of school funding and property taxation, as well as budget adjustments needed due to rising costs in postsecondary programs.

Pierz City Council Confronts Resident Backlash Over Assessment Increases Amid Rising Road Project Costs.

Overview: The Pierz City Council meeting on November 25, 2024, was dominated by discussions surrounding the increased costs and assessments related to the 2024 Street and Utility Improvement project. Residents voiced their concerns about the financial burden imposed by the assessments, which had increased compared to previous projects.