The audit report presentation by Brian from BR Marks provided a comprehensive examination of the district’s financial health, revealing a positive change of approximately $297,283 in the general fund, attributed to increased revenues offsetting rising expenses. The audit underscored the importance of maintaining a fund balance above 10%, with the district currently at a healthy 20%. However, concerns arose over a School Readiness fund deficit of about $41,000, prompting recommendations for close monitoring to prevent future fiscal challenges. The audit also included a Minnesota legal compliance letter, affirming a clean report with no compliance issues, yet identified typical findings related to auditor preparation of financial statements, adjusting journal entries, and separation of duties.

The meeting also delved into the uniform guidance report, highlighting a notable finding concerning the lack of approval for a wage rate under the Esser program. This special audit is necessitated by the district’s receipt and expenditure of over $750,000 in federal awards. The board was cautioned about the potential impact of using Esser funds, approximately $44,000, for ongoing expenses like salaries, as these funds will not be available in the future. The management report recommended updates to the procurement purchasing policy to align with federal guidelines, stressing the need for updated language on conflicts of interest and varied purchasing thresholds.

Shifting focus to student well-being, the board discussed the mental health challenges faced by students, particularly anxiety fueled by early technology exposure. A publication titled “Anxious Generation” was shared, highlighting the negative effects of cell phones and laptops on students’ social skills and ability to unplug. This issue is manifesting in classrooms, where students struggle with focus, leading to disciplinary challenges related to cell phone use. Legislative measures in Minnesota were noted as crucial in helping students disconnect from technology.

In alignment with these discussions, an FF Grant was completed by a staff member to procure books related to student anxiety. The principal reported on observations conducted in October, focusing on staff performance and development, with improvements noted in teaching practices as a result of enhanced staff discussions.

Upcoming events include a collaboration with Hope Incorporated for adaptive sports and recreation, promoting inclusivity through adapted physical activities.

The board also discussed efforts to support seventh graders transitioning to high school, including bi-weekly meetings to enhance communication among staff about individual student challenges. Weekly attendance meetings have been introduced to monitor and support students with attendance issues, emphasizing the importance of home connections.

The meeting concluded with updates on various projects, including the anticipated arrival of a new counselor on November 4th, a crucial addition for student support. Discussions around creating a level four facility for students with the most needs continued, with funding being a key challenge. Upcoming events were noted, such as a Veterans Day program and sports tournaments, with personnel coaching assignments for winter sports approved.