21:23The meeting featured a detailed presentation by the Executive Director of Business Services, Bernice Hnik, who delivered the quarterly budget report for the fiscal year 2024-2025. Hnik emphasized the importance of the report for maintaining accountability and transparency within the district’s financial operations. The report provided an in-depth look at the district’s financial health, outlining revenue and expenditures compared to the budget, and discussing variances and their implications. Significant funding sources such as state aid, local levies, and federal grants were highlighted. The transparency of these financial updates aims to support sound fiscal management.

Additionally, the board discussed budget assumptions for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, framed with input from prior board sessions and meetings. These projections included an anticipated enrollment of 11,128 students, with weighted pupil units estimated at 12,189. The general education formula allowance is expected to increase by 2% to $7,426 per pupil. Specific allocations for instructional expenditures, class sizes, employee compensation, and the high school activity budget were also part of the discussion. Superintendent Chris Lennox was allocated $30,000 to address developing school board priorities and initiatives, which would be included in the final budget adopted by June 2025.

Questions from the board underscored the significance of monitoring enrollment closely, as revenue is closely tied to pupil counts. A board member noted that the district receives 60% of its funding from the state, reflecting on the legislative session timing and its implications for the budget, typically concluding around May 23, with uncertainties lingering until early June.

Alongside budgetary discussions, the meeting highlighted updates from the Association of Metropolitan School Districts (AMSD) and legislative developments. A member reported on a recent legislative meeting with over twenty legislators present. Despite the uncertainty about substantial outcomes, there was a desire for a 3% increase in the funding formula, with ongoing discussions around special education, teacher retention programs, and funding disparities. Optimism was expressed about the commitment to public education, emphasizing collaboration across districts.

0:00In a gesture of generosity, the district received several gifts, including a substantial contribution of $297,100 for the food shelf. Special recognition was given to Bell Lumber and Pole Company for matching food shelf donations, and to former employee Donna Bruno, who bequeathed nearly $36,000 to the food shelf through her estate planning. The board recommended accepting these gifts and expressing gratitude to the donors.

Student representatives from both Irondale and Mounds View schools shared updates on various school activities. Sydney from Irondale highlighted a students versus staff basketball game, where students triumphed for the first time in years. Other events included participation in a youth government conference in Minneapolis, a successful “Coco with Council” event, and a production by the drama department. Meanwhile, Kenu from Mounds View discussed a fundraiser benefiting mental health and cancer research, a pie-throwing fundraiser for teachers, and plans for a mental health walk. The introduction of a new fencing club and an upcoming spring musical based on “Mean Girls” were also highlighted.

21:23Community engagement was another focus, with board members praising the Irondale Asian New Year celebration for its significant attendance and cultural sharing. The Operation Joy initiative was also mentioned, as it benefited approximately 950 students by providing gifts and toys during the holiday season.

0:00Looking ahead, the board announced a work session on January 28th and a regular meeting on February 6th. Superintendent Lennox reported on the upcoming Suburban East Music Festival, which Irondale High School would host in 2025, featuring performances from high school musicians and expected to draw over 1200 participants. The superintendent encouraged attendance at the festival, acknowledging the efforts of the music staff in organizing the event.