A standout moment from the meeting was the recognition of Mike, a student from the Right Tech Center’s welding program, who achieved first place in the state’s largest welding competition at St. Paul College. Competing against 120 college students, Mike excelled in the TIG category and also won in a virtual welding contest, earning two welding helmets and a scholarship. This achievement was particularly noteworthy as it marked a departure from the typical recognition of sports teams and state entrants, underscoring Mike’s exceptional skills in welding.

The board also addressed recent shifts in special education. Angie Luda, the special education supervisor, highlighted the transition from a discrepancy model to a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), designed to provide earlier interventions and reduce referrals for specific learning disabilities. This shift aims to offer more effective academic support before students require special education services. Luda expressed optimism, noting a decrease in referrals for academic disabilities, although there was a slight uptick in referrals for emotional behavioral disorders, possibly linked to a broader mental health crisis.

Superintendent Matthew W. Schoen provided an update on legislative developments that could impact the district’s funding. Of particular concern was the governor’s revised budget proposal, which includes significant cuts in school library aid and Community Education Equalization Aid. For Delano, this could mean a loss of approximately $16,000 in funding. Schoen also discussed a proposed bill allowing school districts to start their academic year before Labor Day, which could affect the Delano district in the 2026-2027 school year.

The introduction of Abby Lang as the new Community Education Director was another development. Lang, who has deep roots in community education through her family, emphasized her commitment to fostering relationships within the district and community. Her appointment comes at a time when the district is focusing on enhancing its community education programs, particularly in aquatics and fitness.

The board reviewed Superintendent Schoen’s performance evaluation, noting his strengths in strategic planning and district operations, while identifying communication and district processes as areas for potential improvement. The meeting also featured reports from school principals, detailing ongoing initiatives and upcoming events. These included social-emotional learning integration, professional development, and preparations for the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs).

In terms of new initiatives, the sixth-grade transition meeting held on March 18 was highlighted as a key effort to support students moving from sixth to seventh grade. Approximately 75% of sixth graders and their families attended, providing them with an opportunity to learn about the high school’s offerings and tour the building. Positive feedback from parents and students suggested a successful event, with plans for future activities to further support this transition.

The meeting also addressed issues within the community education programs, particularly the need to recruit new Water Safety Instructors to resume swimming lessons, which had been impacted by staff departures. The district’s pool has seen significant use, with over 1,300 hours logged for various activities.

Further, the board approved a Strategic Road Map developed with community feedback over the past year. Extended field trips for student groups were also given the green light, with plans for trips to destinations including Eagle Bluff, Madrid, Duluth, and Marshall.