17:47A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to an update on the MAPS dark fiber construction project. This project, vital for connecting seven remote sites to Moorhead High School, ensures operational functions like phone and internet services across the district. The project, approved in March, is on a tight deadline to complete by July 1st, allowing the district to secure state reimbursement funds. Ongoing construction has faced challenges, notably from frost in the ground delaying necessary permits from the city. These hurdles have not deterred progress, with high school fiber installation nearing completion. The installation includes 144 strands, though only 42 are currently needed.

Notably, construction at Horizon Middle School has yet to start, while Ellen Hopkins has completed its installation phase, with fiber ready to be pulled into the building. The operations center is largely finished, pending minor termination work. The updates were visually supported by photographs, illustrating various stages of the project. Importantly, the project remains on track for a July 1st deadline, with testing scheduled to begin the week of June 19th.

27:19The meeting also addressed the Klay County Collaborative, a family service initiative focused on reducing out-of-home placements for at-risk youth. The collaborative, which includes five school districts, local agencies, and mental health organizations, operates on an annual budget of approximately $340,000, funded through local collaborative time studies and Medicaid. Concerns were raised about the collaborative’s financial sustainability, especially regarding excessive carryover funds that could result in a potential loss of $200,000 annually if not addressed. The collaborative proposed a four-year plan to spend down these funds, allocating $200,000 annually for projects like school-based mental health services and afterschool programs.

The financial challenges extend to potential Medicaid program cuts. Despite these concerns, the collaborative remains committed to addressing the needs of at-risk youth, with significant funding allocated to mental health services within the district.

Additionally, the board discussed the juvenile diversion program, emphasizing restorative justice within the school district. This program, primarily active at Horizon Middle School, involves mediating conflicts between students to prevent legal charges, with positive feedback underscoring its effectiveness. The program’s future could be bolstered by a potential grant from Klay County Corrections.

06:40The meeting also included updates on various student achievements, with Moorhead High School choir members selected for the 2025 American Choral Directors Association Minnesota Honor Choirs and the high school’s success at the Minnesota State Skills USA competition. The board recognized the achievements of Horizon West and Horizon East math students in the Math MA Matters competition.

47:33Superintendent updates concluded the meeting, highlighting upcoming events like the AVID senior night and high school graduation, and addressing logistical concerns such as the busing proposal and staff hiring processes. The superintendent clarified that busing discussions would resume in June, linked to projected savings, and confirmed a new schedule for elementary students providing additional social-emotional support without altering bus service times.