The most topic of the meeting was the preliminary levy certification. The school district’s Business Manager gave a detailed report on the necessity of certifying the proposed levies, which are important for county auditors to prepare tax statements for property owners. The board has the option to lower the levies in December but cannot increase them beyond the preliminary authorization. The Business Manager explained that while the district under levied the amount last year, relying only on state aid, the board has the flexibility to adjust the increase rate to about 2.5% if they choose to under levy again. After deliberations, the board voted unanimously to certify the maximum amount permitted by law for the preliminary levy. This decision is essential for maintaining the district’s financial stability and ensuring adequate funding for school operations.

Another issue discussed was the school’s current security camera system. While approximately 300 cameras are installed across the campus, it was noted that the coverage is insufficient given the property’s size. The school plans to annually evaluate its security needs, especially as it continues to allocate funds from safe schools dollars, a portion of which currently supports the School Resource Officer (SRO). Recent funding from Security Bank and Stepen Seminary was acknowledged as instrumental in enhancing security facilities, including the installation of additional cameras. There was a consensus on the need to allow time for the new facilities to be utilized before making further decisions about expansions or additional features.

In addition to security, the board discussed various infrastructure projects. Updates about summer projects highlighted the completion of the greenhouse and improvements to the swimming pool and locker rooms. The greenhouse received occupancy approval without issues from building inspectors, and staff training was conducted to familiarize users with its new high-tech features, including a weather station. A new sign for the greenhouse is expected in three weeks. However, several projects faced delays due to weather conditions, affecting financial projections regarding fund balances. Originally anticipated costs that were not completed by June will now reflect in the upcoming fiscal year.

Finance was also a key topic, with the board exploring a potential refinancing opportunity for bonds that could save the district approximately $300,000. This refinancing is contingent upon favorable interest rates and will be discussed further in the upcoming October board meeting. The Business Manager noted, “it’s pretty good news that a potential of saving almost 300,000,” emphasizing the financial prudence of acting at the right moment. However, fluctuating enrollment figures, which are down by 55 students since June, could impact the district’s finances, potentially diminishing the fund balance.

Additionally, the board approved a memorandum of understanding with Education Minnesota Glencoe-Silver Lake, outlining compensation and procedural agreements related to the READ Act from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2025. Discussions highlighted the benefits of recent professional development initiatives for the teaching staff, emphasizing the commitment to enhancing student education and the substantial effort involved in implementing the READ Act.

In other developments, a proposed trip abroad for students in June 2027 was approved. The 10-day trip to Scotland and Ireland, presented by social studies teacher Bria Wiblemo, aligns with the world history and geography curriculum and offers students the opportunity to earn elective credit. The estimated cost of the trip is around $493, and fundraising efforts will be initiated through various charitable organizations. Questions were raised about the possibility of playing the Old Course at St. Andrews, to which Wiblemo noted she would look into it. The board voted in favor of the trip, providing students with an enriching educational opportunity.

The meeting also touched upon student performance on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) and the importance of participation in these tests. It was noted that many Post-Secondary Option (PSO) students often opt out of these assessments, impacting the overall district scores negatively. Emphasis was placed on personal connections and conversations with students about the importance of these tests for the district’s bigger picture. Comparisons between MCA and ACT scores were discussed, suggesting that the latter tends to reflect a more accurate picture of student performance, as students voluntarily take the ACT.

The board also discussed plans for homecoming week, specifically the decision to hold coronation during the school day to foster greater community involvement and enthusiasm. The event is scheduled for 2:30 PM on Monday, September 16, with live streaming options available for parents and guardians. This change aims to build a stronger sense of school involvement and excitement.

In the latter portion of the meeting, the superintendent reported on a roof and HVAC project tied to a scheduled election on November 5. A series of community meetings are planned to inform the public about the project and its implications. The superintendent emphasized the importance of community awareness regarding the election and the project.