The board’s approval of the Long-Term Facilities Maintenance (LTFM) plan was a crucial agenda item. The LTFM revenue, previously approved for the South Central Minnesota Educational Cooperative, allows for necessary safety checks on fire extinguishers and potential asbestos removal. Moreover, it covers expenses related to health and safety training, compliance with OSHA regulations, and indoor air quality assessments. The funding has historically supported essential projects, such as roof repairs and gym floor replacements. With state approval of additional revenue specifically for roof repairs, the district is in a favorable position to continue these improvements, particularly given the significant roof renovations undertaken in the past five years. The board’s unanimous approval of the LTFM plan ensures that these projects can proceed with annual adjustments as needed.

Another topic was the proposed one-year lease with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The board discussed the DNR’s request for a short-term lease due to pending state funding for internal remodeling of their building. The lease agreement includes a monthly rent increase to $2,000, up from $1,632, with the additional funds earmarked for interior updates and repairs. The board highlighted the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with the DNR, noting prior improvements funded by the state, such as widening and adding a garage door. The lease continuation was approved unanimously.

The financial outlook for the 2025-2026 school year was another focal point. The budget presented revealed a forecasted total revenue of $17,198,434 against anticipated expenses of $18,530,100, projecting a fund balance of approximately $3,743,420. Despite an increase in compensatory revenue to $1,483,443 and stable special education funding around $2.4 million, the district faces a decline in overall revenue. Contributing factors include demographic shifts in the Finlayson and Hinckley communities and a reduction in library aid from $40,000 to $20,000. Special education transportation funding also faced cuts, resulting from the need to reallocate funds to support compensatory education.

Enrollment figures play a critical role in the district’s financial planning. Revenue projections were initially based on an average daily membership of 827 students, yet actual enrollment ended at 844. The district’s funding is further challenged by the inability to qualify for federal impact aid, particularly related to land associated with the local casino. Additionally, the district has maximized local levies, securing the highest possible taxpayer funding, yet rising special education costs remain a concern.

Staffing adjustments were discussed, with reductions including the elimination of an English teaching position and a smart mentor in the math department. The board expressed hope that paraprofessional needs would decrease, contingent on new enrollments. Class sizes are expected to average 25 to 27 students in core classes, with efforts to keep sizes below 30. The elementary level experienced more significant staffing reductions due to a more pronounced enrollment decline. Transportation budgets are stable, but bus route reorganizations are under consideration.

The meeting also addressed academic performance concerns, particularly among fifth-grade students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) transitioning to middle school. The leadership team has made progress, but there is a focus on implementing a new special education delivery model. This approach aims to provide more targeted support by grouping students based on skill levels rather than grade levels, focusing on literacy deficits.

Engaging parents in their children’s education was a topic of concern. The board discussed the challenges parents face in understanding homework and curriculum. A suggestion was made for meetings between parents and children to help bridge this gap. Despite efforts to send home weekly guides with new curriculum materials, there remains a disconnect for some parents. The proposal to add a 10 to 15-minute daily reading practice block aims to improve students’ reading fluency. Additionally, the impact of the Parent Support Organization (PSO) on school funding was examined, highlighting financial losses when students do not pass PSO classes. The board emphasized the need for better communication with the college regarding student performance.