The primary focus of the meeting was on the district’s food and nutrition services. The director of food and nutrition services provided an extensive update, emphasizing the district’s participation in the Minnesota free meals program. This program ensures that enrolled students receive one breakfast and one lunch at no cost each school day. For meals to qualify as “reimbursable,” students must include a half-cup of fruit or vegetable along with two other food groups. The district is working to reduce food waste through initiatives like share tables and bins, allowing students to donate unopened items for others to consume.

Furthering the discussion on nutrition, the board explored the district’s partnership with local farms, notably the Farmer in the Dell initiative. This collaboration has introduced fresh produce directly into school cafeterias, with students already enjoying items like squash, tomatoes, apples, and potatoes. October will see the celebration of farm-to-school month, with students participating in the Great Lakes Apple Crunch event, featuring first kiss apples. The initiative underscores a commitment to using fresh ingredients, with plans to serve real mashed potatoes consistently at the high school.

The board also addressed new nutritional standards, set to gradually limit added sugars, especially at breakfast, and reduce sodium levels in meals over the coming years. These changes are expected to affect school menus and portion sizes. The director noted that food manufacturers are adapting their products to meet these standards, while the district strategizes to maintain student satisfaction with meal sizes by offering a variety of fruits and vegetables and the option for seconds at a cost.

Efforts are underway to simplify this application process with digital options and increased outreach to ensure families are aware of these benefits.

Additionally, the board discussed operational enhancements, including new serving lines at Ellen Hopkins School. The updated kitchen setup includes a self-service hot veggie station, promoting student autonomy in selecting vegetables. The board expressed interest in student feedback, noting positive responses to initiatives like grilled cheese day, where over 250 sandwiches were prepared.

In fiscal matters, the board reviewed the proposed property tax levy for 2025. The district is required to certify its preliminary levy to the county auditor by September 30, with preliminary figures indicating a slight increase of less than 1% from the previous year. The business office will continue to review these figures, with a detailed breakdown expected in December when the final levy is certified.

The board also approved a snow and ice management contract with JT Lawn Services, the low bidder and current provider. The estimated costs for the new contract are lower than the previous one, attributed to JT Lawn Services’ familiarity with the district’s needs. Adjustments to the snow removal scope, including the elimination of certain areas, are expected to save resources.

A resolution appointing election judges for the upcoming special election was passed without opposition, ensuring the district’s preparedness for the event scheduled for November 4, 2025.

The board reviewed several district policies, with minor updates and clarifications made to areas such as equal employment opportunities and the naming of school buildings and grounds. Concerns were raised about the frequency of naming rights changes potentially confusing students. The policy review highlighted the need for clear distinctions between naming rights and sponsorship arrangements.