The discussion on LGBTQIA+ education emerged as a central topic, eliciting diverse community perspectives. A resolution aimed at ensuring dignity, safety, and inclusion for LGBTQIA+ students came under scrutiny. One speaker highlighted the resolution’s importance, urging the board to maintain its implementation and affirm the value of equity, stating, “If the board values equity, it must hold LGBT students in the same regard as any other group we seek to affirm.” The speaker emphasized the need for the board to resist undermining the resolution through procedural loopholes, as such actions could send a harmful message that inclusion is negotiable.

In contrast, a resident named Michelle expressed concerns about an upcoming LGBTQIA+ lesson scheduled for May, questioning its necessity and suggesting it exceeded state law requirements. She argued that the lesson focused too narrowly on LGBTQIA+ students and should instead address bullying of all students perceived as different. Michelle also voiced worries about the lesson’s opt-out structure for high school students, which could result in many being unaware of its content. She called for a balanced approach in education that fosters a positive school atmosphere without endorsing specific belief systems.

Another community member, Jennifer, an advocate for the 279 online program, voiced dissatisfaction with the district’s decision-making process for online learning. She criticized the closure of the 279 online elementary school and the transition from Google Meets to Microsoft Teams, highlighting the lack of stakeholder consultation in these critical decisions. Jennifer described the transition’s undermining effect on synchronous learning and expressed frustration at the board’s unresponsiveness to her concerns. She argued that 279 online deserves tailored support to meet its unique needs, emphasizing that decisions should not be made without input from those affected.

The board also approved significant contracts, including one for Kids Stop instructors, featuring a 4% base increase for the first year and a 1.5% increase for the second year. The financial implication of this contract was approximately $173,374 over two years. Additionally, the board approved a contract for RNs and LPNs, proposing a 4% increase for all steps in the first year and a 2% increase in the second year, with a total financial investment of around $205,532. The board expressed appreciation for these groups’ contributions to the district’s educational environment.

In other business, the board recognized several student achievements. Ella Hegelan from AIO Senior High School and Vivian Schroeder from the same school were honored for their performances in gymnastics and wrestling, respectively. The Maple Grove Senior High School dance team and girls basketball team were also acknowledged for their accomplishments in state competitions. AIO Senior High School’s HOSA team members were celebrated for securing titles at a state competition and qualifying for an international leadership conference.

The meeting included a report from Dr. Kim Hy, the superintendent, who acknowledged the changes brought by spring, such as staffing and attendance boundary adjustments. Dr. Hy also shared points of pride, including students’ participation in a mural project and a food drive aimed at addressing food insecurity.

Community engagement was highlighted with reminders of an upcoming meeting at Crest View Elementary School to gather input on the school’s rebuild and the 28th annual pow-wow hosted by the OIO Area Schools Indian Education. High school students from Maple Grove and Osseo Park Senior High Schools were set to take over the district’s Instagram page to offer a glimpse into school life.