The decision to raise substitute teacher pay was informed by regional pay data, which showed variance in daily rates among neighboring districts. The board discussed rates from other areas, such as Grand Forks, which pays $185 per day, and other nearby districts with rates ranging from $140 to $160. This increase aims to enhance the district’s ability to attract substitutes and is estimated to cost an additional $30,000 annually. Retirees from the district who return to substitute will also see their pay increase, maintaining a $20 premium over the new rate.

Enrollment figures were another focal point of the meeting, with the board noting a significant increase of 62 students compared to the previous year. However, the board also observed a decrease of 20 students since the beginning of the school year, primarily in 10th and 11th grades. The board remains hopeful that numbers will stabilize soon and acknowledged the fluid nature of student enrollment.

Additionally, financial updates were presented, including a refund of over $177,000 from last year’s workman’s compensation audit and a concern about a rise in unemployment costs, which exceeded expectations by approximately $80,000. These financial matters are being monitored, with legislative efforts underway to address unemployment funding challenges faced by educational institutions.