One of the meeting’s focal points was the discussion surrounding declining Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) scores across the district. It was noted that every building, except for the Area Learning Center (ALC), experienced decreases in reading, math, and science performance. Director Moore underscored the urgency of addressing these declines, emphasizing the necessity of focusing on academic fundamentals. He proposed a formal analysis of educational programs funded by grants, urging the board to hold itself accountable for student performance.

Policy revisions also took center stage, particularly concerning Policy 209, Policy 425, and Policy 512. Director Moore raised issues with Policy 209, questioning the clarity of the phrase “comply with all federal, state, and local laws.” He suggested specifying that federal law supersedes state and local laws, though this proposal did not receive further discussion. Moore also expressed concerns about Policy 425, which would transfer the authority to appoint advisory staff development committee members from the school board to the administration. He argued that this change could be viewed as an abdication of the board’s responsibilities as mandated by Minnesota statute.

The debate over Policy 512 focused on the removal of certain oversight from the school district regarding content published in school-sponsored student publications. Moore argued that diminishing the district’s control could leave the board vulnerable to legal consequences if inappropriate content were published. He highlighted the school’s responsibility to maintain accountability, particularly given the mental health challenges faced by adolescents. Despite the committee’s majority support for the policy changes, Moore planned to propose amendments to address these concerns.

Significant discussions also revolved around statute 123B.09, which outlines school board governance. A legal consultation with an MSBA attorney suggested that administrators should manage committee appointments, as they are more familiar with staff capabilities than board members. This viewpoint sparked a conversation about the evolving nature of K-12 education and the separation of governance roles from daily administrative responsibilities. A board member expressed reluctance to be involved in naming committees, emphasizing that such matters would be addressed in a subsequent reading with proposed amendments.

The finance committee’s activities were reviewed, highlighting the approval of the fiscal year 2026 school resource officer agreement and the Riverbend Nature Center contract. The latter saw a minimal cost increase of 1.8%, continuing a partnership that has contributed to curriculum development and student learning experiences for 46 years.

The board also addressed gifts and donations in resolution 26-03, acknowledging community contributions ranging from clothing and supplies for students to financial support for various school programs. A board member expressed gratitude for the community’s generosity, noting that such support is not commonplace in every district.

Student representatives provided updates, with Miss Amamira Williams reporting a positive start to the school year, spotlighting the new pass system’s effectiveness and excitement around upcoming homecoming events. However, concerns were voiced by Issa Ali regarding scheduling issues for Post Secondary Options (PSO) students, particularly upperclassmen.

Additionally, the board considered cooperative sponsorships for dance teams, necessitating the dissolution of an existing co-op with Shadic before forming a new one with Bethlehem Academy. This procedural requirement was approved without opposition.

Towards the meeting’s conclusion, the board approved the preliminary 25 pay 26 property tax levy, noting an anticipated decrease in property taxes of 2.22%. Further details will be presented during the December truth and taxation meeting.

A moment of personal privilege was granted to acknowledge the resignation of Lisa Mcdana, a long-serving paraprofessional who impacted the kindergarten program at Lincoln. The board expressed gratitude for her years of service to students.