The discussion about the Rum River North facility dominated the meeting. The current building, an old grocery store, lacks necessary safety features and adequate space for recreational activities. Staff must unlock multiple doors to navigate the building, posing challenges during emergencies. Additionally, the facility’s uninviting atmosphere has led some parents to seek alternative schools for their children. The proposal aims to rectify these issues by constructing a new K-12 facility, developed in collaboration with Nexus Solutions and Beed Financial. The new building would include a multi-purpose room for recreational activities and minimize the mingling of different grade levels.

Board members emphasized that the new facility would better serve the educational mission by accommodating more students and reducing waiting lists for programs. The estimated cost for the new construction is $14,600,000, financed through a 20-year lease purchase agreement. New legislation allows districts to utilize $65 per Average Pupil Unit (APU) to support cooperatives and intermediates, aiding affordability. The board highlighted that 55% of lease payments currently come from member districts, with the remaining 45% from non-member usage, reducing costs for member districts. For Mora, the financial impact would be around $227,000 from the new $65 per APU allocation and an additional $202,000 from existing funding. For taxpayers, the projected annual increase is approximately $15.87 for a $200,000 home.

The board outlined the timeline for the project, with votes from all six member districts expected in October meetings. If approved, construction would begin in April 2025, with occupancy by September 2026. If the facility is not approved, the board will consider renovations or expansions of the existing building.

The meeting also featured recognitions and introductions. Luke and Jill Strandin were acknowledged for their contributions to the welding program at Mora High School through their business, Preferred Metal Cab Incorporated. They facilitated a welding competition, providing students with marketable skills and generating enthusiasm among the participants. Prizes included welding helmets, gloves, and cash buyout options, with business staff participating in judging.

The board introduced new staff members, including three sixth-grade teachers and a second-grade teacher. Each new teacher shared their backgrounds and enthusiasm for joining the Mora School community. Alissa, a second-grade teacher, expressed her love for kayaking, while Rose Christensen, a sixth-grade reading teacher, mentioned her hobby farm and renting goats. Alicia Rudenberg, another sixth-grade teacher, noted her support for the Dallas Cowboys.

Mr. Tuckner, a new instructor for a materials manufacturing class, outlined a curriculum involving creating skateboards, integrating various materials, and manufacturing processes. This class promises an engaging learning experience for students.

Updates on special education highlighted the capacity of facilities to accommodate up to 40 children. Currently, four students receive individual assistance in separate classrooms due to the severity of their disabilities. The board expressed a desire to grow membership with other districts, as both member and non-member districts frequently inquire about available space. Concerns were raised about financial implications if student enrollment increased by 30% without sufficient space. The importance of successfully reintegrating students back into their home districts was also emphasized.

Transportation updates included the arrival of three out of four new school buses, with one more on the way. Efforts were made to manage logistics, including driving back and forth for warranty work. A back-to-school meeting with bus drivers was scheduled, providing an opportunity for interaction and training ahead of the new school year.

The meeting also covered preparations for the upcoming school year. Staffing challenges were acknowledged, particularly in special education, with a need for additional personnel. The board noted an ongoing recruitment effort to ensure sufficient coverage throughout the school year. The back-to-school workshop and open house were mentioned, with the first day of school scheduled for September 3rd.

Further financial updates included the nearing conclusion of the construction fund, with a review of expenditures planned before the end of 2025. The board was informed that the audit season had begun, with a positive initial fieldwork session over the summer. Auditors are expected to return in October for a comprehensive audit, with the goal of presenting the audited financial results in November.