A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the upcoming expiration of the Civic Center lease, which is set to conclude at the end of the school year. The superintendent reported ongoing discussions with the city to address usage and lease terms, including the integration of water usage at Thompson Field into the agreement. By consolidating leases, the school aims to streamline its relationship with the city. The superintendent sought the board’s guidance on how to proceed with negotiations, whether through direct board involvement or committee discussions.

Alongside facility concerns, the board turned its attention to budget realignment. The superintendent emphasized ongoing discussions with certified and non-certified staff representatives to gather input.

One such legislative concern is the impending paid leave requirement, set to take effect in January 2026. The superintendent voiced apprehension about the mandate due to its lack of a funding mechanism, which poses a potential risk to the district’s financial stability. This unfunded mandate was highlighted as a notable issue, with the board needing to consider its financial implications as they plan for future budgets.

The board also addressed changes in compensatory aid resulting from the universal provision of free lunches. This change affects funding calculations based on free and reduced lunch counts, prompting the district to reassess its financial strategy to accommodate these shifts.

Security measures were also on the agenda, with a decision to implement a new security app for staff phones. The app’s user-friendly and cost-effective design was favored over more complex alternatives, with onboarding expected to begin shortly.

On the personnel front, the board reviewed and approved spring coaching assignments for 2025, which were routine and unchanged from previous years. This approval was straightforward.

Policy updates were another focal point, particularly concerning Policy 501 on weapons in schools. The board reviewed and unanimously approved the revised policy in a single reading, following the Minnesota School Boards Association’s updated recommendations. The substantive change involved redefining what constitutes a weapon.

The meeting also featured a report on the American Indian Education program, highlighting its efforts and achievements with a student population of over 95. The program director’s work in outreach and compliance with state mandates was acknowledged, and the board approved the program update without debate.

Student engagement was prominently highlighted through presentations by the high school student council and elementary student leaders. A freshman student, Emma, shared the success of a kindness initiative, distributing over 275 cards, and described staff appreciation events that received positive feedback. Elementary leaders reported on fundraising efforts and community engagement activities, fostering school spirit and appreciation among students and staff.

The board also looked ahead to a work session focused on finding a location for Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) for the next year.