The board meeting delved deeply into the district’s staffing situation, as reported by Human Resource Director Casey Van Cleberg. The district began the year with 575 certified staff members and 464 casual and substitute employees, but a reduction of seven certified staff was noted compared to the previous year due to budget constraints. This reduction is compounded by unfilled positions, presenting a critical challenge. Van Cleberg highlighted the importance of substitutes, with over 180 substitutes employed to cover absences. However, the district’s fill rates for educational support personnel (ESPs) remain a concern, despite improvements in teacher absence fill rates. A substitute committee has been formed to address these challenges.

The board also discussed the need for volunteers to mitigate staffing shortages, particularly in school libraries, where closures have been noted. The district’s approach to managing these issues includes transitioning to a new payroll and HR system, Skyward, to streamline processes and reduce costs.

State mandates also demand attention, as the district is required to comply with new reporting requirements and tracking mandates. These changes necessitate additional resources, with Van Cleberg emphasizing the complexities these introduce to the human resources department’s workload. A point of concern is the upcoming paid family leave requirement set for January 2025, projected to cost the district between 14 to 40 million dollars, affecting both the district and employees. The board voiced concerns about funding these mandates, urging public involvement in discussions with local legislators for better support.

An upcoming pay equity study, due in January, will compare the pay of male and female staff in similar roles. The board must meet an 80% compliance threshold in three scenarios to avoid sanctions. Efforts to reduce the time it takes for female classifications to reach top pay levels are ongoing, with adjustments also made for male staff.

The meeting also featured updates from Grand Rapids High School’s principal, who highlighted high participation rates in fall sports and recent achievements, such as the swim and dive team’s championship win. Acknowledgment of academic excellence was noted, with a teacher receiving the K12 Distinguished Teaching Award in geography education, a prestigious national accolade. The principal also discussed College Knowledge Month activities, including a college fair attended by over 60 colleges and a pilot program for direct admissions.

The board addressed the expulsion of a student for 12 months, with Superintendent Gross explaining that such decisions are not made lightly and must adhere to state statutes. The board confirmed the district’s obligation to continue providing educational services to the expelled student.

Further discussions included the approval of a resolution for Minnesota State High School League grant applications, intended to reduce the cost of student activities, and the sale of surplus properties, with one being returned to the original family that donated it.

The board also explored a partnership with the R Arts Council, emphasizing the integration of arts into education. Success stories of students benefiting from this program were shared.