At the forefront of the meeting was the superintendent’s report, which plans for a community kickoff week starting January 26th to promote an upcoming referendum. This initiative aims to engage the community through various informational efforts, including the launch of a dedicated referendum website with the theme “elevating education, charting the course for success.” Additionally, a district newsletter outlining the referendum’s key points is scheduled for distribution in early February. These efforts are focused on gathering support and awareness for the district’s educational goals and infrastructure needs.

In conjunction with the referendum, the superintendent highlighted the importance of professional development and collaboration within the district. An early-out professional development day is scheduled for January 16th, featuring an all-staff meeting to update faculty on the referendum and a building project. Staff members will have the opportunity to tour innovative educational facilities, including a visit to a newly constructed elementary school with a unique fabric tension building. The tour will also provide insights into advanced infrastructure through presentations by industry leaders, fostering a collaborative environment for educational improvement.

Further engaging the community, the board received an update on Icefest, an event supporting district programs like the backpack program and care closet. The event, sponsored by the Zilling family, has contributed $168,000 over the past eight years.

Board reorganization was another critical agenda item, with the election of officers for the coming year. The chairperson retained their position through a self-nomination and subsequent unanimous approval. Kelsie Herzog was nominated and confirmed as the clerk, while Mark Gerbi continued as treasurer. These appointments were solidified with unanimous support.

The board’s administrative actions included the authorization of official signatures and facsimile signatures for school district transactions, designation of the Morrison County Record as the official newspaper, and approval of Pine Country Bank as an official depository. Notably, the chair abstained from voting on the depository due to a conflict of interest. The board also discussed the authorization for electronic funds transfer payments and the superintendent’s ability to expend funds within budget guidelines, both of which were approved without opposition.

This presentation, organized by Mark Deal, will include simulator demonstrations and possibly involve student participation.

The board also addressed the approval of the 2026 school board meeting schedule and the EMLF early retirement incentive agreement, both of which were approved without noted conflicts or changes. A first reading of four policies, covering accounting practices, extracurricular transportation, uniform grant policy, and chemical use, was presented. Board members were encouraged to review these policies, which primarily involve legal requirements.

To conclude the meeting, the board transitioned to a closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategy, as permitted under Minnesota statute section 13D.03. This session allowed for in-depth discussions without final actions. Upon reconvening in open session, the meeting was adjourned unanimously.