The most notable development was the board’s acceptance of $50,000 in donations, reflecting community support. Superintendent Eric Olson highlighted a $5,000 contribution from Peacemaker Minnesota to enhance Monticello Middle School’s curriculum. Additionally, Derek Sylvestri, a TV studio manager at St. Cloud State University, donated three broadcast desks valued at $45,000. These desks, previously used by Fox Sports Studios, are expected to improve the district’s audiovisual production capabilities, offering students a more professional broadcasting experience. The board unanimously approved the resolution to accept these gifts.

Attention then shifted to student achievement, with discussions centering on literacy objectives and behavioral support systems. Principals from the district’s elementary schools reported on their progress toward meeting educational goals. Despite aiming for a 3% increase in proficiency by spring 2026, the district fell short, attributed to the simultaneous implementation of two new curriculum resources. These changes, while initially challenging, are part of a broader shift towards evidence-based reading instruction that emphasizes phonics and decoding skills over rote memorization. This approach is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to navigate complex vocabulary in higher grade levels.

The principal highlighted the dedication of both staff and students in adapting to these new instructional methods, noting improvements in background knowledge essential for reading comprehension and fluency. The staff’s growth was attributed to an increased reliance on data analysis and professional development. Future steps to bolster literacy outcomes include maintaining the flexible phonics model, ongoing professional development, and leveraging the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) to ensure effective core instruction and targeted interventions for students with additional academic and social-emotional needs.

The meeting also addressed behavioral stability, particularly among first and second graders, with an increase in previously unseen behaviors. The district’s behavior analyst and interventionist are implementing measures to address these concerns.

Parental engagement emerged as a factor in supporting behavioral expectations for younger students. Although no formal program exists for parental education on behavior management, the board acknowledged the potential benefits of such initiatives in fostering a robust home-school connection.

The board also received a report on middle school academic improvements, with particular attention to reading and math growth. Despite a lack of progress in seventh-grade reading proficiency, the school demonstrated overall positive trends, thanks in part to the integration of reading strategies across subject areas. Efforts in science education were noted, with the adoption of reading strategies resulting in a notable increase in proficiency rates.

A proposal to transition to a trimester schedule was discussed, with implications for middle school planning and curriculum changes. Additionally, the introduction of the “Mon Slide” program aims to ease the transition to middle school for incoming sixth graders, providing orientation activities such as locker combination practice and school tours.

The meeting concluded with the announcement of Sarah Welk as the new Director of Student Services, a role designed to enhance student support and manage state and federal mandates. Welk’s extensive experience and leadership qualities were highlighted, along with her commitment to student welfare and community engagement.