The board’s primary focus was on the upcoming bond sale, with a discussion about refunding a portion of the 2016AA school building bonds. The objective of the refunding is to lower interest costs, akin to refinancing a mortgage, to yield savings for East Grand Forks taxpayers. Erin provided an overview, noting that the refunding process is time-sensitive, possible within 90 days before or any time after the bonds’ call date of February 1, 2026. The board has already approved an intent resolution to move forward with this plan. The district plans to refund maturities from 2027 to 2032, although the outstanding bonds extend to 2036. The initiative will involve participation in a state credit enhancement program, which guarantees the district’s debt service payments without additional costs. This program is beneficial as it reassures investors and could potentially reduce overall interest costs.

There was a query regarding current interest rates and the possibility of changes before the bond sale. Optimism was expressed that favorable market conditions might arise, particularly if the resolution of the government shutdown leads to lower rates. The board noted that they have the flexibility to delay the refunding if market conditions are unfavorable, as it can occur anytime after the call date.

In a segment of the meeting, the educational needs of students classified as level four were addressed. Concerns were raised about the necessity for a different environment for these students compared to general education settings. One speaker expressed frustration, stating, “I feel like I’m failing them because I can’t provide all the needs that they need,” underscoring the challenges faced in meeting these specific educational requirements. A regional crisis team was offered to assist staff, and planning for better support is underway. The speaker emphasized the urgency of establishing a level four facility in the region, stating, “It just can’t come soon enough,” though no timeline was provided for its establishment.

The meeting also highlighted professional development efforts, focusing on CAPTY training linked to the Minnesota Read Act. This training is designed to help educators assess reading difficulties, such as dyslexia, in students from fourth to twelfth grade. It was emphasized as essential for teachers to understand and implement in their classrooms, with follow-up training scheduled for January.

A speaker updated the board on middle school activities, noting positive events like Halloween celebrations with activities such as pumpkin decorating and bingo. The speaker noted, “It was silent when about 150 middle schoolers listening to bingo numbers in the cafeteria,” indicating successful student engagement. Statistics were shared about student performance, with 26% of sixth graders, 23% of seventh graders, and 29% of eighth graders qualifying as students of excellence.

Community engagement was also a focus, with middle school parent-teacher conferences showing varying attendance rates: sixth grade with 47%, seventh grade at 39%, and eighth grade at 31%. The importance of parental involvement was acknowledged. Winter sports activities, particularly the need for additional coaching staff for girls’ basketball, were mentioned, with a call to the community for volunteers.

The board discussed a career exploration event called the T4 summit for eighth graders and seventh grade AVID students. The hands-on experiences included learning about surgical technology and occupational therapy, described as engaging and fun. An upcoming Veterans Day program and a successful doughnut fundraiser raising $600 for veterans’ honor flights to Washington, D.C., were also announced.

Additionally, an administrative speaker congratulated students Gabby Tac and Tegan Lehan for qualifying for state in swimming and provided updates on the fall musical, noting strong ticket sales with over 600 sold. November, recognized as Native American Heritage Month, was marked by educational videos for students. Winter sports practices were commencing, with boys’ basketball starting the following week.