One notable issue during the meeting was the negotiation updates with two unions. For Union 284, the district proposed a total package of approximately 7.36%, while the union requested around 12.43%. A subsequent meeting was arranged for August 21st to continue discussions. Similarly, negotiations with another union involved a district offer of 7.93% against the union’s 8.68% request. The Superintendent expressed optimism about reaching a resolution by September. A closed session was held later in the meeting to further discuss negotiation strategies, highlighting the centrality of these discussions to the board’s agenda and the importance of confidentiality.

In a bid to foster community engagement, the board announced a homecoming-related event organized by various groups, including the PTO, high school student council, and boosters. Scheduled for September 12th from 4 to 6 PM, the tailgating event will feature activities such as face painting, bounce houses, a live band, and food options like hot dogs and burgers. All community members and students are welcome to join the festivities free of charge. The event is planned as a lead-up to the homecoming parade, which will begin at 2:30 PM, and aims to strengthen community ties through collaborative efforts.

Beyond negotiations and community events, the board addressed several ongoing projects and administrative updates. The Director of Finance provided a report on the summer food service administrative review by MDE, which concluded with no findings, thanks to the efforts of Joanie and her team at Chartwells. Updates on facilities included ongoing work in the swim and lower locker rooms, with completion expected soon, and a finished gym floor at Lincoln, though some issues needed addressing. Preparations for the upcoming audit were also discussed.

Mr. Butler, a school principal, shared his report, noting planned live sessions for K-12 teachers in November and January, along with a new reading intervention block for each grade level’s schedule. Themes for the school year at Lincoln Elementary, such as “undercover secret agents” and “Challenge accepted,” were discussed. Registration numbers for kindergarten were confirmed to be on track with expectations.

Additional updates included the announcement of an open house at the junior-senior high for August 27th, along with plans for orientation sessions for 7th graders and new students. The continuation of the one-to-one Chromebook program was confirmed, and the BYOD policy will be phased out. New staff hires were introduced, and homecoming week details were shared.

Under new business, the board approved a post-secondary enrollment options contract with Crown College for the 2025-2026 academic year. Job descriptions for childcare staff supervisor and early childhood education coordinator were also updated, addressing staffing changes. Contracts approved included a two-year contract for the community education director, featuring a 14% increase in the first year and a 3% increase in the second year, in line with market competitiveness. Wage increases for early childhood employees and wraparound care assistant leads were similarly structured.