The meeting commenced with a robust recognition program where Superintendent David Law and School Board Chair Meghan Selinger honored various student groups for their exceptional accomplishments during the 2024-25 school year. Among the standout achievements was the boys varsity baseball team’s impressive turnaround, which saw them qualify for the state tournament and finish fifth overall. Lincoln High Camp, a team member, expressed pride in their journey from a two-and-five start to a final record of 19-8, highlighting the seniors’ leadership as a key factor.

The girls varsity golf team was celebrated for their second consecutive third-place finish at the state tournament. Head coach Sarah Martinson praised the team’s resilience in overcoming weather challenges and achieving a team GPA of 3.72. Similarly, the boys and girls lacrosse teams were recognized for their state tournament qualifications, with the girls’ team achieving the highest finish in the program’s history by placing fifth overall.

Additionally, the boys rugby team was acknowledged for their undefeated season and state championship win. Junior Thomas Poen spoke about the team’s significant improvement and collaboration. The environmental team also received accolades for winning the state competition and competing nationally, finishing in 15th place. Senior Quinn Hughes earned the Scholars of Distinction award for her project on sustainable agriculture on Mars, one of only 11 students statewide to achieve this honor.

The meeting then transitioned to a detailed examination of student performance on standardized tests. Superintendent Law and Dr. Matt Riao reported on ACT, IBAP, and SAT results, highlighting an upward trend in ACT participation and scores, with an average ACT score of 25.9 among 685 students. The IB diploma pass rate reached an all-time high of 95%, surpassing the international average. However, SAT participation had decreased, with only 91 students taking the test compared to 130 the previous year, complicating data interpretation.

The discussion also addressed AP exam performance, with participation rising and a higher percentage of students passing with scores of three or higher. Specific subjects like Calculus BC and Computer Science reported average scores exceeding 4.0 for the second consecutive year. Despite a decline in average scores for three English exams, they still surpassed global averages significantly.

Board members raised questions about the varying requirements for standardized tests across universities and the clarity of admission policies. The college counselor recommended that students directly contact universities for specific requirements. Another inquiry focused on the percentage of students retaking the SAT and ACT, though specific numbers were not available.

The board then addressed significant policy revisions, starting with the proposed attendance policy. This new comprehensive document consolidates previous separate policies for elementary, middle, and high schools. The policy outlines expectations for students, parents, teachers, and administrators, and includes protocols for excused and unexcused absences. The motion to approve the new attendance policy passed unanimously.

The most notable policy discussion involved revisions to the discipline policy, especially due to legislative changes mandating non-exclusionary practices prior to suspension. Miss Flowers detailed the updates, emphasizing that non-exclusionary practices are required except in safety-related cases. The policy also clarifies that the use of force is permissible only when a student poses a danger to themselves, contrasting with previous guidelines.

The board discussed the readmission plan for students following suspension, which can now be communicated verbally, though written documentation is encouraged. The policy also prohibits suspensions for students in Pre-K through third grade, emphasizing that even partial-day suspensions do not count. Updates regarding students with disabilities aim to ensure inclusivity while adhering to FAPE and IDEA statutes. The motion to approve the updated discipline policy passed unanimously.

Following policy discussions, the board approved bids for the replacement of unit ventilators at Minnetonka Elementary School and siding, window, and HVAC replacements at Clear Springs Elementary. These projects are part of a long-term facility maintenance plan to ensure buildings are suitable for future students.