A focal point of the meeting was the board’s consideration and approval of a resolution directing the administration to commence the process for potential budget reductions. Superintendent Gr introduced the resolution as a customary step for addressing financial constraints. The resolution calls for discontinuation or reduction of certain programs and positions to balance the future budget. The resolution passed without discussion.

In parallel, the board deliberated on a proposed cooperative agreement with Nashwauk-Keewatin for Nordic skiing. This potential partnership aims to provide expanded athletic opportunities for students while being financially advantageous for the district. The agreement, not feasible for the current year due to timing, is set for consideration for the next year. Discussions revealed that only one student from Nashwauk-Keewatin expressed interest, with expectations of increased participation following the agreement’s implementation. By allowing all students to participate without displacing others, the nature of Nordic skiing was emphasized as inclusive.

Financial implications were addressed, with a confirmation that the district could save approximately $1,000 annually. This financial arrangement involves Nashwauk-Keewatin covering participation fees, and costs being proportionately divided based on student involvement. The board stressed the importance of objective criteria for evaluating such agreements.

Additionally, the meeting featured a report from Principal Theer on ongoing initiatives at Big Fork School. The curriculum’s fidelity is being assessed through collaborative walkthroughs with administrators, highlighting a focus on consistent educational experiences across the district. The second year of career internships through Career Pathways was also discussed, with partnerships with local businesses and institutions like Minnesota North and Big Fork Valley Hospital providing students with real-world experience and certifications, such as a certified nursing assistant course.

The principal’s report also covered the positive impact of community access to the school’s fitness center and the successful participation rates in winter activities like basketball, cheerleading, and robotics. In terms of infrastructure, the completion of the Edge storage building was noted, with plans for student involvement in shelving and electrical installations in the spring.

Community engagement was another critical theme, with the principal emphasizing strides made by the advisory committee in fostering better communication between the community and the school board. This effort has facilitated progress in various school initiatives, including the music program. A school board member appreciated these efforts, acknowledging the positive collaboration between the community and the school board.

In other board business, the retirement request of Julia Brewster, who had served for 16 years, was approved with gratitude expressed for her contributions. The board also approved several policies related to medication administration and special education instructional services, aligning with legislative changes.

Board members shared insights from the Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA) conference, emphasizing the importance of public schools and the role of school boards in engaging families and preventing student loss. Discussions highlighted the value of structured support provided by the MSBA for new board members, particularly in understanding the complexities of treasurer duties and negotiations.

The superintendent reported on efforts to ensure equitable educational experiences across district schools, with a focus on consistent content delivery in second-grade classrooms. Legislative updates were also provided, addressing unresolved issues from the previous year, including unemployment insurance and compensatory revenue gaps.