Owatonna School Board Faces Budget Cuts After Failed Levy Vote

Overview: During a recent Owatonna School Board meeting, the board addressed the necessity of making budget cuts following the unsuccessful levy vote. The board passed a formal resolution directing the administration to propose reductions in programs and positions. This decision arises from a need to re-evaluate financial allocations and ensure fiscal responsibility in light of the levy not passing. This resolution is a procedural step that allows the administration to identify specific areas where budget cuts might take place, a process that was underscored in both the board’s work session and finance committee meeting.

Norfolk County Commissioners Approve Handbook Amendments, Sign Union Contracts, and Honor Community Member

Overview: The Norfolk Board of County Commissioners approved significant amendments to the North County Employee Handbook, signed union contracts with AFSCME Local 2417, and honored the memory of a respected community member during their meeting on November 26, 2025. The meeting addressed various personnel matters, discussed technological upgrades, and confirmed future events.

Lac qui Parle Valley School Board Faces Difficult Decisions on JV Football Fee Reimbursement

Overview: The Lac qui Parle Valley School Board recently convened to tackle a range of issues, with the topic of reimbursing junior varsity football players drawing attention. The meeting included discussions on financial planning, improvements in school facilities, and the challenges posed by fluctuating enrollment numbers. However, the debate over whether to refund fees for JV football players who had limited game opportunities sparked considerable interest and discussion among board members.

Rockford School Board Approves New Superintendent Contract and Focuses on Student Achievement Goals

Overview: The Rockford Area School Board meeting on November 24th covered a range of topics, including the approval of a new superintendent contract, discussions on student achievement and growth metrics, and various updates on educational strategies and fiscal health. The board expressed a united front in their commitment to enhance educational outcomes for all students within the district.

Cherry Hill School Board Grapples with Special Education Concerns Amid Safety and Funding Discussions

Overview: During the recent Cherry Hill School Board meeting, concerns were raised about the district’s handling of special education and its collaboration and transparency practices. A parent and educator expressed frustration regarding the school district’s perceived lack of support when parents raise legitimate concerns about special education services. The parent described a troubling trend where the district’s response to concerns is often not problem-solving but rather pushing parents toward formal processes like due process hearings. This approach, he argued, damages trust and fosters conflict instead of collaboration. The parent also highlighted an instance where a request for classroom observation was denied, labeling it as “gatekeeping” and detrimental to establishing educational partnerships. Citing data from the New Jersey Department of Education, he noted an unusually high number of due process cases in Cherry Hill compared to similarly sized districts, prompting a call for an independent audit of the special education system.