0:28The meeting began with a presentation by Superintendent Eric Olson, who announced three notable donations. The board accepted a $255 grant from the Minnesota State High School League intended to assist with free and reduced participation fees. Additionally, a $2,800 grant was provided for purchasing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the middle school tennis courts and funding CPR training. The most substantial donation, totaling $11,000, came from the Minnesota Darkhouse Anglers Association, designated for the fishing team sponsorship. These donations reflect the community’s ongoing support for the district’s extracurricular programs and safety initiatives. Olson expressed gratitude for the efforts of individuals like Gary, who have been crucial in distributing AEDs throughout the district.

In a related development, the board heard from the 2024-2025 Monella Royal Ambassadors, who shared their experiences over the past year. The ambassadors, Lily Teeman, Aurora Kimball, and Claudia Martin, detailed their involvement in various community events, emphasizing the program’s role in building leadership skills and fostering community connections. They recounted participating in local events such as Chalkfest and the Winter Carnival, highlighting the friendships and community ties forged through these experiences.

25:01The meeting also addressed the Monella Educational and Scholarship Foundation’s transition to oversight by the Central Minnesota Community Foundation. Dr. Jim Johnson explained that this change was recommended by auditors to improve fund management. The foundation manages approximately $2.6 million, primarily tied up in endowments, which are used to generate scholarships. Johnson reported that $162,800 in scholarships were distributed during the previous fiscal year, noting a decline in funds compared to prior years. He encouraged board members to consider contributing to the foundation and highlighted the need for volunteers to assist in reviewing scholarship applications.

40:59In a show of gratitude, the board recognized School Bus Driver Appreciation Day. A letter to Hogland Transportation expressed appreciation for the bus drivers’ dedication amid changes, such as new start times and updated routes. The drivers’ roles as the first and last school contact for many students were acknowledged, along with their contributions to students’ daily lives. A special mention was given to Tina Burher and her family for their annual tradition of baking and delivering cupcakes for the drivers.

The board then moved to personnel matters, introducing Laura Stebner as the new director of teaching and learning, pending board approval. Human Resource Director Rob Daner described the extensive hiring process, which involved narrowing down 33 applicants to six semifinalists. Stebner, currently with the St. Cloud School District, expressed her enthusiasm for joining Monticello, citing her connection to the community through her children who attend school in the district.

56:31Superintendent Olson presented the proposed school calendar for the 2025-2026 academic year, developed collaboratively with district stakeholders, including building administration and teacher unions. The calendar prioritizes student needs and ensures adequate instructional days, with kindergarten students attending 167 days and grades 1-5 attending 168 days. A new format for the New Teacher Workshop was introduced to enhance the experience for incoming educators, proposing a session a week prior to the regular teacher workshops.

The meeting also discussed a proposal to increase the board chair’s monthly pay by $120, acknowledging the additional responsibilities undertaken by the chair compared to regular board members. The board chair’s compensation would rise to $441.50 per month, while the other members’ pay remains at $320.49.

Lastly, the board reviewed eight policies for a second reading, covering topics such as student medication administration, opioid overdose medication availability, student recruiting, DNR orders, Title IX sex discrimination updates, internet technology use, and crisis management. The board members, familiar with the policies from prior review, raised no questions.