The appointment of an interim superintendent was a focal point of the meeting. Following the resignation of Director Bree Schindele, the board moved to appoint a new interim superintendent. A revised contract for the interim superintendent was discussed, particularly clarifying the term “annual salary” within the contract to avoid confusion. The board agreed to rephrase the term to reflect a nine-month duty year salary of $250,000. This adjustment was unanimously approved by the board members present.

In tandem with the appointment, the board also addressed the upcoming levy referendum. Dr. Emily McDonald, acting superintendent, provided an update on the levy scheduled for a vote on November 5. She emphasized the district’s need for additional staffing to support a growing student population, stating, “If we are not keeping up with the needs and the supports that we have, we will continue to grow a gap between what our students need and what they deserve to have as they move through our school system.” The referendum aims to increase staffing levels to enhance academic achievement and support student needs, with a proposed tax impact of approximately $13 per month for the average home.

The board discussed the financial intricacies of the preliminary pay 2025 levy, which impacts the 2025-2026 school year. They received maximum levies from the Minnesota Department of Education and examined variables such as market value, net tax capacity, and sales ratios. A notable rise in market value post-pandemic, driven by inflation, was discussed alongside concerns about maintaining fiscal stability amid projected enrollment declines. The board acknowledged the challenges of balancing the budget in future years if enrollment trends do not improve.

During the meeting, the board also reviewed the budget for long-term facilities maintenance (LTFM) projects, allocating nearly $13 million for these initiatives. This budget includes funding for one-to-one devices for students, STEM programming equipment, and safety upgrades, particularly surveillance cameras. The board noted a decrease in the total general fund from $56 billion to $54 billion, largely due to enrollment counts. Community Education saw a slight increase in the basic levy, with an unexpected state aid portion of about $115,000, received for the first time. The overall budget for Community Education projected an increase by approximately $10,000.

The board examined the impact of these financial adjustments on various programs, emphasizing the necessity of maintaining staffing levels in school-age care programs for students with special needs. They also discussed debt service, noting that only the necessary funds to meet bond obligations are levied, with surplus funds returned to taxpayers through tax abatements.

Additionally, the board approved a temporary easement required for a road project by the City of Lakeville, impacting a sidewalk near Century Middle School. The project, set to commence in March 2025 and conclude in June 2026, will provide financial compensation of $4,800 to the school district. The board reassured that student walking routes would not be affected by this project.

Several positive initiatives were also highlighted during the meeting. Principal Kim Buy from Lakeville North High School presented insights from students on a newly implemented “slow start” for ninth graders, designed to help them acclimate to the high school environment. Students shared their experiences, noting the benefits of the Link Crew program in fostering connections and smoother integration among new students.

Dr. McDonald acknowledged Custodial and Maintenance Appreciation Week and Board of Education Appreciation Month. She urged the community to express gratitude to custodial staff and recognized the dedicated work of board members. Each board member shared their motivations for serving, with quotes reflecting their personal commitments to the education and well-being of students.