14:24One focus of the meeting was the approval of changes to the secondary handbook for the 2024-25 school year. Among the most updates was a new provision allowing for vehicle searches on school property when there is reasonable suspicion. The policy aims to enhance safety and security, though it prompted questions from board members regarding its implementation and potential impact on student rights. The handbook revisions also emphasized student rights to freedom of speech within school guidelines and introduced behavioral considerations for the eligibility of seventh and eighth graders in extracurricular activities. The activities director will now consider student behavior, such as disrespect towards teachers, alongside academic performance in determining eligibility.

Further changes to the handbook included the removal of a redundant section on gifted and talented programs, which is addressed elsewhere. The enforcement of rules for students who turn 18 while enrolled was clarified, and a new link was introduced for submitting discipline complaints.

18:32Policy revisions were made to comply with new statutory requirements, particularly concerning student discipline and bullying prevention. Policy 506 was updated to reflect 2024 changes regarding the use of reasonable force, specifying that only resource officers can use certain measures in emergencies. Policy 514 outlined a mandate for staff training on bullying prevention and required a response within three school days upon notification of a bullying incident.

21:37The board also addressed updates to policy 620, aligning the credit for learning policy with Minnesota law definitions. During the meeting, a second reading of several other policies took place, with no concerns raised.

05:07In personnel matters, the board approved Danielle Jar’s hiring as the Elementary music teacher. The approval followed a brief discussion about her qualifications and background, ultimately concluding that there were no local family ties to previous educators.

22:25On the activities front, participation numbers for spring sports showed increased involvement, except for girls’ track. The board discussed the need for a C team baseball coach, contingent on budget considerations. A recent facility ribbon-cutting event raised $77,000 for a cancer benefit, highlighting strong community support. Upcoming plans for new batting cages were noted, with fundraising efforts to be conducted independently by the baseball and softball teams.

28:02The meeting also covered the renewal of the Minnesota State High School League membership for the 2024-2025 school year, with the associated cost clarified to be approximately $3,000. The board emphasized the importance of developing a long-term 10-year plan.

38:12Budget discussions were a focal point, with the business manager presenting an overview of the 2024-2025 budget. Special education funding and long-term facility maintenance were highlighted, along with adjustments in insurance coverage due to rising expenses. The board reviewed fundraising reports, projected a 2% increase in general fund revenue, and noted significant cost increases due to teacher salary rollups and a new transportation contract. The fund balance from the previous fiscal year was reported at 7.9%, with a projected increase to 8.05% by the end of the current fiscal year.

34:26In the Food Service segment, breakfast and lunch will remain free for students next year, with ongoing efforts to manage the fund balance. The board approved the 2024-2025 budget without dissent, and preparations for the upcoming budget year were outlined.