01:20:33The partnership with the Minnetonka Diamond Club stands out as a development. The board approved a plan to construct new restroom and concession facilities at Veterans Field, a long-awaited community improvement. The Diamond Club has committed to a $500,000 cash donation by August 2025, followed by annual donations of $150,000 in 2026 and 2027, with further contributions possible if costs are under budget. The project, estimated at $900,000 to $1 million, includes a larger restroom and concession area. Construction is expected to align with the upcoming baseball season.

01:08:59In tandem with this, the board initiated a pilot program for student representation at school board meetings. This initiative aims to integrate student voices into decision-making processes without granting voting rights. Students will participate in discussions, offering insights and feedback on agenda topics. The program follows a format where teachers nominate students, who are then elected by their peers.

54:27Additionally, the board addressed financial challenges by approving fee increases, including a 10% hike in the transportation fee. This change is expected to generate approximately $252,000, contributing 5% toward a $5 million budget gap for the fiscal year 2026. The fee adjustments, including a 20% increase for band and orchestra instrument rentals, aim to mitigate financial pressures following years without budget reductions. The board emphasized the importance of maintaining open communication with families and providing financial assistance to those in need to ensure equitable access to educational resources.

58:39The meeting also celebrated academic and extracurricular achievements. Noteworthy recognitions included students qualifying for state-level science and engineering fairs and the Minnesota Band Directors Association Allstate Honor Band. The board also acknowledged teachers who earned National Board Certification and a school nurse who achieved national certification.

30:42A school report from Minnetonka High School detailed initiatives like the cultural fair, which promotes diversity and inclusion, and the Minnetonka Student School Board Forum 1.0, which gathered student feedback on experiential learning and school facilities. The board plans to incorporate student feedback into school decisions, fostering a sense of agency and belonging within the school community.

01:03:44Furthermore, the meeting addressed a proposed change to the 2024-2025 school calendar to accommodate professional development. The adjustment involves removing a school day on June 10th to prepare for curriculum implementation, with the board acknowledging the impact on families and emphasizing the decision’s benefit to students.

01:16:45Finally, the board reviewed policy updates reflecting legislative changes, with a focus on streamlining redundant policies and ensuring compliance with current practices. The meeting concluded with community announcements, including open applications for various advisory committees and appreciation for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week.