A major focus of the meeting was the potential participation in a pilot program aimed at increasing pay for substitute teachers. The proposal suggested raising the pay for licensed substitutes to $200, while maintaining a lower rate for others. This initiative comes in response to changes allowing former paraprofessionals with a specified tenure in the district to serve as substitutes. The board recognized the need to address these financial implications while ensuring the district can continue to attract and retain quality substitute teachers. The consensus was that the mandates’ financial impact required careful consideration.

The board also tackled legislative mandates requiring schools to implement cardiac emergency response plans and adjustments in student attendance reporting. The state has emphasized improving attendance rates, which prompted minor procedural changes. Other legislative changes included relaxed requirements for remote participation in meetings and adjustments to data request protocols, which now relieve schools of the obligation to respond if a request is not picked up within five days.

Financial matters extended to the board’s acceptance of a $1,500 donation from the American Red Cross for scholarships. The donation was unanimously approved following a roll call vote. The board also reviewed and approved substitute pay rates for the 2025-2026 school year.

The meeting also addressed the dissolution and reformation of the boys’ hockey cooperative agreement, allowing Bram to join Mora and Malacca. This required unanimous approval for both dissolving and forming the new cooperative. Additionally, the board discussed Policy 905, which pertains to advertising and collaboration with neighboring districts and nonprofits, to ensure alignment with the district’s educational mission, subject to superintendent approval.

A member reported on an executive council meeting discussing the potential purchase of property east of Dairy Queen in Malacca for future development. Collaboration with city authorities to ensure adequate infrastructure, such as sewer and water, was emphasized. Another board report highlighted the significance of the Pathways Early Learning Scholarship, which provides $62,000 annually to support preschool families in financial need.

Employee appreciation and recognition events for the 2025-2026 school year were also deliberated. A proposal to start a fund contributed by board members to finance these events was discussed, with the intent to demonstrate appreciation for staff. Further discussion on this topic will continue offline, but board members were encouraged to attend these events.