15:45The board’s discussion highlighted the consequential impact of the new busing system on student discipline across the district. In East View, referrals dropped from 112 in 2024 to just 33 in 2025, with repeat offenders decreasing from 59 to nine. A similar trend was observed in the middle school, where referrals fell from 169 to 102, and repeat offenders were reduced from 68 to 36. The restructuring of bus routes and times was seen as a key factor in these improvements. Older students were strategically positioned at the front of K-2 bus routes to assist younger children, fostering a supportive environment that encouraged appropriate behavior and routines.

31:59These changes in busing also led to a reduction of 115,000 miles driven compared to the previous year, attributed mainly to fewer trips to Clearwater and Hasty. Although families initially expressed dissatisfaction with the adjustments, the board emphasized effective communication through email responses, even when the information provided was not favorable. The new system also required families to register for bus services, and as of the meeting, out of the anticipated 4,200 students, 2,213 had successfully registered.

21:14The introduction of an electric van and a propane bus into the fleet was discussed as part of the district’s efforts to modernize transportation. The electric van, with an 80-mile range per charge, was deemed suitable for school needs, though challenges in securing adequate power supply for charging were noted. The propane bus was introduced with cautious optimism, considering past unsuccessful attempts in the 70s and 80s. The district’s existing infrastructure could accommodate a new propane tank if necessary, but initial plans involved refueling at external locations.

27:56State patrol’s changes to vehicle inspection protocols, now operating on a pass/fail model, impacted the district’s inspection outcomes, prompting the administration to schedule mechanic training for compliance. Additionally, the acquisition of a new activity bus for smaller groups was discussed, which could reduce costs for extracurricular events, with school district employees able to drive it using a standard class C license.

Transportation logistics also featured prominently, with discussions on optimizing routes by eliminating stops for infrequent riders, thereby saving time and costs. Collaboration with special education coordinators improved scheduling for students with individualized education programs (IEPs) and 504 plans. The board acknowledged the benefits of these efforts in reducing travel times and maximizing vehicle use.

34:46The meeting also reviewed the closed work session summary on Superintendent Eric Olson’s evaluation, where he was rated as highly effective. His leadership, transparency, and collaborative approach were praised, with achievements in school improvement initiatives and student attendance rates highlighted. The board encouraged continued focus on project management and organizational delegation for sustained progress.

36:56Policy updates were another key area of discussion, with several policies presented for review. Changes included updates to Policy 614 on the district’s testing plan, incorporating student plans for testing accommodations, and Policy 722 on public data requests, informed by the Minnesota School Boards Association model. The board addressed the need for clarity on charges for electronic data dissemination and discussed the implications of legislative changes on Policy 802 regarding obsolete equipment disposal, particularly school technology.

Finally, the board discussed ongoing construction projects with the state and city. Plans for roundabout construction were scheduled for completion before the school year commenced, and preferences were expressed for minimal disruption during further infrastructure projects.