The meeting prominently featured acknowledgments from board members and community representatives regarding Superintendent Jeff Stad’s influence on the Owatonna School District. Over the years, Stad has been recognized for his active community involvement and effective communication during challenging times, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the campaign for a new high school. A community leader highlighted Stad’s participation in local organizations like the United Way of Steel County and the Rotary Club, emphasizing his role in bridging the school district with broader community efforts.

Numerous board members shared their appreciation for Stad’s leadership style, noting his accessibility and ability to cultivate trust within the district. One member expressed gratitude for Stad’s capacity to listen and help people realize their potential, stating, “I have no doubt, Jeff, that you care about this community and about our schools, teachers, staff, students, everybody.” Another member recounted how Stad’s charismatic leadership inspired their own decision to join the board, attributing the district’s achievements, such as the construction of a new high school, to his vision and energy.

As the meeting progressed, the board formally addressed the transition in leadership, approving Dr. Tamara Champa as the new official with authority to manage access to Minnesota Department of Education secure websites. This step is part of the broader preparations for her role as the incoming superintendent, following Stad’s departure.

In financial matters, the board approved the amended budget for the 2024-2025 school year, which reflected increased interest earnings that had surpassed initial projections. This adjustment was recognized as beneficial to the district’s overall financial health. Attention then turned to the preliminary budget for the 2025-2026 school year, where updates included anticipated increases in compensatory revenue and decreases in special education transportation costs. The board planned to revisit the amended budget in early 2024 to incorporate these changes.

The board also discussed a resolution for a special election to address a financial shortfall projected over the next five years. The resolution called for a per pupil increase of $700, stressing that this was necessary not for new programs but to maintain current offerings and ensure the district’s financial sustainability. Board members emphasized the importance of community support to achieve this goal, with the resolution passing unanimously.

Policy revisions were another focal point, with updates made to early admission to kindergarten and visitor access policies. The revisions aimed to streamline language by separating procedural details from overarching policy directives. A board member raised a query regarding an addendum to the visitor policy, which was clarified during the discussion.

The board further addressed its membership in the Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA) and Schools Advocating for Fair Funding (SAFF). Both memberships were affirmed for the 2025-2026 school year, with members highlighting the value of the training and advocacy benefits these organizations provide. In particular, SAFF was praised for its advocacy work, which has resulted in increased compensatory revenue for the district.

Additionally, the board certified a new population estimate for the 2025 payable 2026 levy, noting a slight increase in district population. This data is used to inform financial planning and tax assessments. The meeting concluded with the acceptance of community gifts to the district, reflecting ongoing local support.