The meeting was centered around the READ Act, a state initiative aimed at ensuring all Minnesota children read at grade level starting in kindergarten. Christy, a district staff member with 24 years of experience, provided an extensive update on the Act. This initiative mandates high-quality professional development that aligns with the science of reading and structured literacy. Key areas covered include phonemic awareness, phonics, vocabulary, reading fluency, and comprehension. Training also addresses the brain’s reading processes and supports culturally and linguistically diverse learners.

The training, facilitated through the Online Language and Literacy Academy (OLAF), requires participation from 75 teachers and two administrators, including classroom teachers from pre-K through sixth grade, reading intervention teachers, and special education educators. The OLAF program is designed to be primarily asynchronous, allowing participants to complete between 45 and 54 hours of training at their own pace, with mandatory synchronous sessions for enhanced engagement. Christy emphasized that the modules aim to improve educators’ practical skills and understanding of reading instruction, with a rigorous assessment process that includes both knowledge-based tests and written responses graded by facilitators.

The board discussed the structured nature of the training and its alignment with educational standards, addressing questions about the evaluation process for written components. The emphasis was on ensuring the training meets the diverse needs of educators and students within the district.

Additionally, the meeting included a segment on the sustainability of the program, comparing it to past initiatives like No Child Left Behind. Although there was some skepticism based on past experiences, the program’s comprehensive approach was highlighted as a potential solution to existing educational challenges. The discussion acknowledged shifts in educational paradigms, particularly in understanding dyslexia and brain development related to reading skills.

The Foley School Board also celebrated the successful implementation of an outdoor learning space at the elementary school, funded by a grant from Tiffany N. This initiative aims to enhance the educational experience by providing an area for outdoor activities. Materials have been delivered, and construction is expected to commence shortly.

In an effort to improve the lunch experience for fourth, fifth, and sixth graders, the board decided to separate recess from the lunch period, allowing students more time to eat without feeling rushed.

The meeting also highlighted the implementation of a program designed to educate students on behavioral standards. Staff members engaged directly with students, explaining expectations in various areas of the school, such as hallways and cafeterias. This initiative positively impacted students’ understanding of their actions’ consequences, particularly regarding hallway cleanliness, as noted by custodial staff.

The first day of school was marked by a successful open house with strong community engagement, and the senior class kicked off the year with a “Senior Sunrise” event, fostering school spirit among the graduating class. The board acknowledged the efforts of staff in facilitating the transition into the school year, particularly through learning stations that standardized messages about behavioral expectations.

A significant upcoming event is the homecoming, featuring a coronation ceremony scheduled during school hours to encourage greater student participation. This decision was made following poor attendance at previous events held on Sunday evenings. The coronation will take place on a Friday afternoon, coinciding with various school activities and a community event called “Big Truck Night.”

The board also discussed the necessity of approving amended and restated bylaws for the B Sterns Education District. Concerns were raised about the functionality of the Voyager and Pioneer buildings, which are deteriorating and in need of updates.

The board addressed the 2024 levy certification, recommending levying to the maximum allowed, with final numbers to be confirmed at the December meeting.