One notable matter of the meeting was the search for a new superintendent to replace Mr. Elstad, who will be leaving his position on June 30. Initially, the board focused on internal candidates, but after a lack of suitable applicants, they broadened the search, receiving 24 applications. From this pool, five candidates were initially selected for interviews. However, one candidate accepted another position, leaving four to be interviewed. The board expressed confidence in the quality of the remaining applicants, stating, “I think we have really, really good applicants.” Two candidates have been shortlisted for final interviews, with one interview already conducted and another scheduled for the following evening. The board planned to finalize their decision on Tuesday night, with a stand-up meeting scheduled for Wednesday morning to confirm the decision.

In addition to the superintendent search, the board discussed the results of a significant bond sale. Jeff Cely from AERS provided a detailed presentation regarding the bond issuance, which was primarily for facility maintenance and air quality improvements. The bond sale received six bids, with the winning bid coming from an underwriter in Milwaukee. The principal amount was noted as $755,000, with a true interest cost of approximately 3.55%, lower than the previous estimate of 4.16%. This favorable rate was attributed to competitive construction bids, resulting in a debt service reduction of approximately $1.1 million compared to earlier projections. Cely emphasized the callable nature of the bonds, stating that they could be refunded or refinanced starting February 1, 2033, with funds available by April 17. He concluded by reassuring the board of the district’s strong financial standing, supported by sound reserves and a favorable demographic outlook.

Following the bond presentation, the board addressed a resolution concerning general obligation facilities maintenance and school building bond series 225A. This bond, amounting to approximately $5.8 million, was tied to air quality projects at McKinley and the Owatonna Education Center, as well as pool restoration efforts. The resolution was approved unanimously through a roll call vote.

The meeting also included discussions on other topics. Mr. Elstad provided an enrollment update, noting an increase of nearly 240 students compared to projections, with around 400 students enrolled online. This positive trend was acknowledged by board members, who anticipated further interest from other districts. The board also discussed a tax increment financing (TIF) project introduced by the City of Owatonna. It was clarified that the financial impact on the district would be minimal, amounting to around $50,000 over a 20-year span. The rationale behind TIF as a means to stimulate housing and business growth was explained, with potential long-term benefits for the district’s tax base.

Further, the board reviewed policy revisions, specifically focusing on Policy 522, a revamped Title IX policy reflecting changes mandated by federal law. The MSBA had recommended reverting to the 2020 final rule of Title IX, and the board approved the policies as presented without opposition. Additionally, the board discussed the amended budget for 2024-2025. A resolution concerning the termination and non-renewal of probationary teachers’ contracts was also addressed, deemed significant due to the number of staff affected. All impacted employees had been notified prior to the meeting to ensure they did not learn about their status through public proceedings.

The revised school calendar for the 2025-2026 school year was also considered. Mr. Elstad explained the necessity for two additional staff development days, particularly for training in new math curriculum and other required changes. These days would align with the Education Minnesota break and Presidents’ Day, with a survey indicating 98% of teachers found value in such days.

Ventilation improvements at McKinley Elementary and the Owatonna Education Center were also approved, with respective project amounts of $1,329,945 and $2,452,945. Moreover, the board accepted several gifts to the district, including donations for band covers, a violin, mental health initiatives, and the fast pitch team.