One of the meeting’s focal points was the evaluation of copier service contracts. Representatives from ABM and Marco Technologies presented their cases, vying for the district’s contract. Advanced Business Methods, which had been servicing the district for nearly a decade, urged the board to reconsider a committee’s recommendation to terminate their services. Brian Wesland of ABM acknowledged previous service issues, particularly with the paper cut service at the school year’s start, and assured the board of their commitment to rectify these problems. He emphasized ABM’s long-standing relationship with the district and their guarantee to replace equipment at no cost if it failed to meet performance standards.

In contrast, Hunter Baltimore of Marco Technologies highlighted his company’s extensive experience and local support capabilities, proposing a solution that minimized waste and costs. Baltimore emphasized the company’s comprehensive approach to addressing the district’s long-term needs, distinguishing Marco’s offerings from ABM’s. The board deliberated on the merits of each proposal, considering factors like service reliability, cost, and technology solutions such as Marco’s digital faxing system.

Ultimately, the board voted 5 to 1 in favor of Marco Technologies, swayed by the company’s proactive support during recent service issues and a slightly more cost-effective proposal.

The meeting also featured a comprehensive audit presentation by Brian Stavenger from ID Bailey. Stavenger provided a detailed overview of the district’s financial health, stating that no significant findings were reported in the financial statements, federal audit, or Minnesota legal compliance audit. The audit revealed that actual revenues exceeded budgeted figures by over $1 million, and expenditures were closely aligned with budget expectations, resulting in an unexpected increase in the general fund balance to approximately $4.8 million. This was noted as a significant improvement over the anticipated budget deficit, with the district maintaining a fund balance within the desired 15% to 20% range.

Board members inquired about trends in fund balances, particularly the influence of federal funding during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stavenger confirmed that the increased fund balances in recent years were likely due to federal funds received during the pandemic.

Another agenda item was the update on the American Indian education program, which aimed to integrate Indigenous history into the curriculum as mandated by recent legislation. The American Indian education coordinator highlighted efforts to acquire resources, such as books by Native American authors, to support this initiative.

Ambitious goals were set for the program, seeking 100% post-secondary readiness for grade 12 American Indian students by the 2024-2025 school year and comprehensive training for teachers in Native American cultural practices. Despite concerns over the feasibility of these goals, confidence was expressed in the planning and support from the American Indian parent group.

The board also addressed staffing needs, particularly the hiring of a fourth-grade teacher and a social worker to support students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). Creative hiring strategies were discussed to fill these roles, amid ongoing challenges in finding qualified candidates.

Transportation needs were another priority, with the board authorizing the purchase of a used 2018 school bus and discussing the acquisition of a new 2025 Bluebird passenger bus to expand the fleet. This decision was driven by a recent bus loss and the need to accommodate increasing demand for transportation.