The board’s decision to approve the school calendar for the 2026-2027 academic year was a key highlight of the meeting. The calendar development process was collaborative, involving input from teachers, staff, and administrators. The draft calendar was crafted by a committee that met in December and then disseminated to all staff for feedback via a survey, which received 451 responses. A majority of 62.1% favored Draft A, which proposed starting the school year on August 31, 2026, and ending on May 28, 2027. The calendar is designed to support student learning and staff well-being, incorporating regular breaks throughout the spring semester and a preference for professional development days on a Monday in March, instead of coinciding with a holiday. A motion to approve the calendar was made and seconded, passing without further discussion.

Enrollment trends were another significant topic addressed during the meeting. Over the previous year, student numbers increased by about 100, but the current year saw a slight decline of approximately 30 students, primarily at the high school level. This decline was partly attributed to family movements and a decrease in numbers typical at the high school level over time. The district’s alternative school experienced an increase in enrollment, while K-8 numbers remained stable. The online academy, known as MOSA, accounted for some of the change, as it included 16 students in the high school count.

The board also received an update on the special education child count from December 1st. The data revealed an increase in the percentage of students with disabilities served in the district, rising to around 17% from 16.22% the previous year. The district’s numbers for students receiving special education services exceeded the state average in most categories, particularly in speech-language services. The update highlighted the presence of specific learning disabilities and noted that the state plans to introduce new criteria for identifying these disabilities.

Budget revisions for fiscal year 2026 were discussed, with adjustments made to reflect changes in enrollment assumptions, staffing, and state aid estimates. Revenue increased by $1.4 million, driven primarily by general education aid due to adjustments in average daily membership and expanded K-6 programming. However, expenditures rose by $2.2 million, largely due to the sports center roof project being moved up to fiscal year 2026. The board discussed the need for more detailed reporting on student activity fund allocations, particularly concerning coaches and uniforms.

The meeting concluded with the board voting to cancel the March 9, 2026, meeting due to a scheduling conflict with the MSBA day at the capital. This decision was made to allow board members to attend the event, which was deemed important for district advocacy. The board was reminded to register for this event if they planned to attend.

In addition to these major topics, the board took time to celebrate the accomplishments of Moorhead High School dancer Audrey Murphy, who was named to both the Minnesota 3A All State Dance Team and the Minnesota 3A All State Kick Team.