The decision to expand online programming comes in response to student feedback. The district is exploring ways to provide a diverse range of online courses accessible to students across all high schools within the district. Superintendent Lennox emphasized the importance of ensuring these courses cater to all students, regardless of their home school, potentially allowing for mixed classes from different schools. The board plans to engage teachers in discussions about language in teacher contracts related to online and hybrid learning as part of future negotiations.

The meeting also addressed legislative updates, noting that budget discussions at the Capitol are focusing on maintaining a zero gain or loss in education funding for fiscal years 2026-2027. However, concerns were raised about a projected $700 million cut to education funding for 2028-2029, which could affect various programs. The board members have been involved in legislative discussions on issues such as absenteeism programs and updates to the Read Act. A proposal allowing districts to determine their school start dates, rather than adhering to a mandated post-Labor Day start, was highlighted as progress.

In addition to these issues, the meeting celebrated the accomplishments of numerous student groups. Athletic and activities director Chris Frink, along with student representatives, shared updates on winter activities. The boys swim team captains recounted their remarkable journey from not placing at the state level to finishing 10th, with several individual swimmers medaling. Members of the Irondale marching band and color guard shared their experiences, including competing in the 3A championships at U.S. Bank Stadium and ranking in the top 20 out of 87 bands in Indianapolis.

The speech team highlighted their success in sending a record number of participants to the National tournament, attributing their achievements to the program’s impact on their confidence and public speaking skills. The Nordic ski team captains emphasized the camaraderie among team members despite challenges such as lack of snow, while the Science Olympiad team celebrated their third-place finish at the state tournament, noting the collaborative nature of their competitions.

The DECA program was another focal point, with representatives highlighting its hands-on learning approach and real-world applications in business and marketing. This year, DECA had 35 chapter members, with seven advancing to the international competition in Orlando. The program’s community service initiatives, including a week of giving that raised over $5,000 for the Ralph Reader food shelf, were also commended.

Student representatives from Irondale shared upcoming activities, including a spring carnival, Earth Week celebration, and the formation of a Model United Nations delegation. The Irondale drama department announced their spring play, “Puffs,” scheduled for the end of April. Meanwhile, representatives from Mounds View reported on their basketball team’s successful season and the launch of a girls’ flag football team supported by the Vikings.

The board also discussed ongoing efforts to support students’ social-emotional and behavioral needs. An interdisciplinary team meets monthly to identify available supports and services, analyzing data for patterns and trends across schools. Strategies such as morning meetings and advisory periods for direct instruction in behavior expectations and social-emotional skills were highlighted as effective. Building-level supports, including consistent behavioral frameworks and collaboration between general and special education staff, were emphasized.

In terms of community partnerships, the district collaborates with organizations such as Ramsey County and the Suburban Ramsey Family Collaborative to provide a range of services that would not be feasible independently. The demand for social-emotional and behavioral supports is expected to grow, necessitating ongoing analysis of strengths and gaps within classrooms, schools, and external partnerships.