The meeting featured a discussion led by student representatives who addressed the board about the anxiety prevalent among students due to ICE’s presence. Many students reportedly feel they must carry identification constantly to avoid potential issues, compounding their existing fears about school violence and family separation. The students called for concrete actions from the board to protect them from discrimination and intimidation on school grounds, emphasizing that while freedom of expression is a constitutional right, it shouldn’t create hostile environments.

Board members acknowledged these concerns, with one member sharing personal experiences of fear and the need to carry identification. The board discussed how these fears have led to increased absenteeism among students from minority communities, affecting academic progress. There was a consensus on the need for ongoing dialogue and support for affected students and families, with reminders that ICE agents require a judicial warrant to enter school premises.

Concerns about student safety extended beyond interactions with ICE. The meeting addressed mental health and the broader implications of absenteeism. School officials reported on partnerships with the Office of Educational Equity to connect families with resources, emphasizing the importance of communication between school liaisons and families to address safety concerns and encourage attendance.

In addition to safety issues, the meeting highlighted educational achievements and initiatives. Middle school principals presented data showing significant student growth, particularly in reading and math proficiency. At John Glenn and Sky View schools, over 50% of students improved by at least one level on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA). The presentations emphasized that both proficiency and growth are essential metrics, and the effective use of resources has been instrumental in these improvements.

The principals discussed adjustments in instructional time due to a transition back to a six-period day, with a focus on maintaining student engagement and well-being. Attendance data showed that 81% of John Glenn students attended school for at least 90% of the days in the first trimester. Behavior referrals for physical incidents have decreased significantly, attributed to strategies like daily advisory classes that focus on social-emotional learning and community building.

The board also addressed community engagement efforts, particularly around the transition from elementary to middle school. Welcoming events for incoming sixth graders, family information nights, and open houses aim to ease this transition. Secondary schools have launched initiatives like “coffee and conversation” events to foster transparency and address parent concerns, especially ahead of an upcoming referendum. These efforts aim to involve parents more closely in school operations and address demographic-specific attendance and achievement gaps.

Further, the meeting included discussions on the district’s policy revisions related to ethics, chemical use, student promotion, and curriculum goals. The board reviewed these updates without immediate questions, with plans to revisit winter weather guidelines in a subsequent meeting.

The board acknowledged contributions from community donors, with donations totaling over $25,000 for the fiscal year, supporting initiatives like a holiday shop and family support programs. There was also a resolution to establish combined polling places for school elections, which was unanimously approved.

Finally, the board’s action items included approving a 3% salary increase for non-unit staff in the upcoming years and the certification of the 2025 payable 2026 tax levy, which included a 2.86% increase. The meeting concluded with the swearing-in of newly elected member Sam Rosemark and the unanimous adjournment after setting future meeting dates.