0:02In the superintendent’s report, key financial challenges were outlined, including declining enrollment from 2,434 students in 2018-19 to 2,297 currently, and projections of continued decreases. The district anticipates a modest $200 per pupil funding increase, translating to over $500,000 in additional funding. However, the decline in student numbers directly impacts revenue due to the state’s student count-based funding model. Financial projections warned of a potential $21,000 deficit by the next fiscal year’s end, with long-term impacts compounding over subsequent years. The district’s current fund balance stands at approximately $600,000, but the state forecasts a $6 billion deficit, raising concerns over possible cuts to special education transportation reimbursement.

A finance subgroup proposed several strategies, including potential budget reductions, a community survey to gauge opinions on taxation and educational funding, and planning for a referendum within two years. Additional recommendations included exploring a four-day school week and hiring a marketing and grant writing position to bolster revenue.

19:49The potential closure of Dr. Knight Elementary was a focal point, with Superintendent Johnson’s finance and facilities task force suggesting it, alongside another school, to optimize facility use. This sparked strong opposition from community members during the public comments section. Former student Adam Patrick, third-grade teacher and parent Whitney Toney, and other concerned parents and teachers voiced their concerns over the closure’s impact on educational quality and community stability. Patrick argued for the school’s high academic standards and called for transparency in understanding the financial implications of its closure. Toney highlighted the nurturing environment at Dr. Knight and raised logistical concerns about long commutes for younger students if they had to transfer. Renee Crowley emphasized the benefits of smaller class sizes and questioned the district’s spending priorities, while another parent addressed safety issues at the school, highlighting recent staff changes that have impacted the school environment.

The public comments underscored a strong emotional attachment to Dr. Knight Elementary and a shared concern over the broader implications of its potential closure on educational quality and community stability.

37:17In addition to discussing Dr. Knight’s future, the meeting included a detailed overview of a community survey aiming to gather input on funding requests. The survey process, presented by a speaker, emphasized demographic representation and the importance of obtaining unbiased, actionable insights. The survey is scheduled to begin after the district’s spring break, with results expected by the end of April. The cost of conducting the survey, which could reach $25,000 for a sample size of 500, was a point of discussion, with board approval pending to ensure relevant questions are included.

1:31:18The latter allows students to opt out of reciting the pledge, aligning with state mandates for daily recitation. The board unanimously approved these policies, noting no concerns from members.

37:17Donations to the Little Falls Community Schools totaled over $38,000, supporting various programs such as robotics, care closets, and esports. The board expressed gratitude for the community’s support, with the resolution to accept these gifts passing unanimously.

Student representatives highlighted upcoming school events, including spring sports and a band and choir trip to Nashville. The weightlifting team’s achievements were celebrated, with two state champions among 12 participants. The meeting concluded with the board recognizing staff contributions and upcoming initiatives, including kindergarten registration numbers and the Little Falls Education Foundation’s grant applications.