A primary focus was on the Director of Finance’s report, which highlighted a potential decrease in compensatory revenue tied to changes in the assessment of free and reduced lunch eligibility. The shift from application-based assessments to alternative methods could result in an approximate $200,000 revenue drop for the current fiscal year. This change has prompted districts to advocate for reinstating the previous system to accurately capture eligible families. The Director also emphasized the need for increased funding for safe schools and long-term facilities, which have not been adjusted since fiscal year 2025.

An innovative approach was presented concerning special education costs. The administration revealed that employing their own occupational therapist led to a significant 23.75% reduction in special education expenses. This strategic move was part of a broader service cooperative agreement for the 2026-2027 school year, which outlined various services offered by the Southwest Central Service Cooperative. The decision to increase behavior analysis service hours from 60 to 90 was also discussed, emphasizing its necessity for effective support of students with existing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The meeting continued with a principal’s report that highlighted recent and upcoming educational initiatives. Collaboration with an educational advocate and the addition of two math tutors were noted as positive steps, particularly in overcoming recruitment challenges typical of rural areas. Details about the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) schedule for grades three through six were provided, along with confirmed summer school dates from July 6 through July 30. The principal expressed gratitude for community partnerships with Parent Teacher Organizations (PTOs) and local officials who have supported ongoing facility adjustments.

In preparation for the upcoming ACT on April 7, logistical plans were outlined, including transportation options for students who cannot drive themselves. The state testing schedule, spanning from March 2 to May 8, was reviewed, with a note that this year, unlike previous years, would not have built-in half days for testing. Instead, half-day schedules are planned for April 14 and April 22, during which students in grades 7, 8, 10, and 11 will take tests, while seniors can leave early using their privileges.

Prom plans were also shared, with the event scheduled for April 25 at the Crow River Winery. The efforts of junior parents and specific organizers were acknowledged. Changes to summer school programming were discussed, citing a shift in funding sources due to the conclusion of CO dollars, prompting a return to previous strategies of partnering with local schools for targeted services.

The school board meeting also included acknowledgments of the efforts during the transition to distance learning and handling flood-related challenges at Lakeside. Condolences were extended to the family of Phil Polarsi, a longtime teacher and counselor at the middle school, whose passing was noted during the meeting.

A service cooperative agreement and an increase in junior high baseball and softball umpire rates to $95 per night were proposed. The board recognized this adjustment as likely setting a precedent for future increases due to rising costs.

Additionally, the board acknowledged donations from the GSL boosters for wrestling mats and GSL concessions for a wrestling event. It was noted that the wrestling mat had been utilized at the state tournament.

The meeting concluded with the first reading of several policies, including legal status, student discipline, and health and safety policies, which were brought back for formal adoption without opposition. A second reading of previously introduced policies was conducted, leading to their unanimous adoption.