The most compelling part of the board meeting revolved around the “mission moment” segment introduced by Dr. Champa, which underscored the theme of “partnership” for the year. This theme is vital as it fosters collaboration across the district. Dr. Champa, along with career navigators Brian and Missy, elaborated on their efforts to cultivate partnerships with the local business community. Last year marked the initiative’s inception, encouraging staff to visit local industries to bring real-world experiences into the classroom. This year saw involvement from 16 different businesses, allowing educators to visit two sites each.

The meeting featured representatives from these businesses, who shared their experiences and the value of collaboration with the school district. Ron Kubicek from Advantage Cabinets recounted an unexpected and fruitful engagement between a teacher and their design team, which led to discussions about integrating design elements into classroom activities. Michelle Redmond from Big Brothers Big Sisters highlighted the urgency of mentorship, noting that 356 youth are currently awaiting mentors, and urged teachers and staff to consider getting involved.

Representatives from Federated Insurance, Melissa Gearoff and Michelle Byer, expressed their excitement about hosting educators and discussed the significance of their internship program. They cited successful hires from this program and the positive experiences shared by both students and staff. Sammy Miranda from Lakeside Foods emphasized community engagement and the skills training program developed with the school, with a strong desire to retain local talent within Owatonna. John Champa from Life Fitness shared a collaborative project with the industrial tech program, where students designed bike racks that Life Fitness manufactured.

The meeting also included discussions on mental health and career pathways. A representative from the utility sector emphasized the diverse opportunities available beyond traditional roles like linemen, extending to positions in accounting and leadership. Shelley Rodriguez and Vicki Ebano addressed the challenges in the mental health field, stressing the importance of providing resources to students and teachers to better understand career paths in this area.

In other discussions, the board explored new policies aimed at addressing memorials and student fundraising, citing a need for clearer administrative oversight. The necessity of guidance for handling specific events was emphasized, particularly due to recent occurrences that made such policies pressing. Further, the board approved the Minnesota State High School League Form A resolution to utilize funds for students in disadvantaged positions to participate in activities.

The meeting also served as a platform to celebrate student achievements and discuss upcoming opportunities. The boys’ cross-country team was lauded for winning the Big Nine Championship and qualifying for the state meet for the first time since 2012, with both boys’ and girls’ teams attending the state meet together for the first time since 2001. The football team faced a disappointing loss, while the girls’ volleyball team continued to compete in their section finals against a highly ranked opponent.

Additionally, the board discussed the importance of student-driven initiatives, with new clubs such as HOSA focusing on health professions. They expressed admiration for students taking the lead in driving community change. The policy committee’s recent work was acknowledged, noting the introduction of new policies regarding student fundraising and memorials that required additional attention during readings. A board member who attended the special education advisory council meeting shared that it was a discussion involving district leadership, staff, and parents, focusing on areas of improvement and positive developments within the district.

The board concluded with the approval of two extended trip requests, one for the concert choir to perform at a Wolves game and the Minnesota State Capitol, and another for the key club to attend a leadership camp in Loretto, Minnesota. These trips were discussed and subsequently approved.