The board detailed the timeline and financing plan for an extensive roofing project aimed at improving the school facilities. The project will be executed in two phases, with substantial completion of Phase 2 expected by September 1, 2026. The financing strategy includes utilizing existing reserves and leveraging lease levies against already collected funds. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for September 18, with bids due by October 4, and awards expected to be announced at the October 28 meeting. The project’s financial aspects and timeline were emphasized as critical to maintaining the school’s infrastructure without additional financial burdens on the local taxpayers.

Attention was also given to the transition to a new educational assessment system, the NWEA MAP, which will replace FastBridge. The new system aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of students’ academic needs and trends. Math assessments are already underway, with English and reading assessments scheduled for the following week. A training session with MAP experts is planned for October 9 to help staff interpret the new system’s reports. This training will extend to middle and high school staff over the coming weeks. The successful completion of the new assessments at the elementary level, ahead of schedule due to homecoming activities, was noted as a positive development.

The meeting covered the addition of a new dean of students position, filled by Mr. Scott Stoad, who has reportedly made contributions to strengthening student support and fostering a positive school culture. The board expressed gratitude for this new position, describing it as a “huge asset for the teachers and the students.” Discussions also included the potential need for a dedicated school counselor at the elementary level to address the increasing social, emotional, and academic needs of students. The benefits of such a position were highlighted, but the board decided to observe the effectiveness of the newly created dean of students position before making further staffing decisions.

In addition to these major topics, the board approved a request from FFA advisers for an overnight trip to the FFA National Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana, from October 22 to 26. The livestock evaluation team qualified for the trip based on their success at the state competition. The board approved the trip, agreeing to cover the costs of a substitute teacher and transportation, while other expenses would be funded by the Minnesota Livestock Breeders Association.

The board also accepted several significant donations, including $1,425 from Pipestone Publishing Company to the athletic help fund, $9,196.18 from the Arob Booster Club for various athletic equipment, and $4,000 to address overdue lunch balances. The allocation of the $4,000 donation will be reviewed by the administrative team to determine the best application of these funds.

Policy updates and approvals were also a focal point of the meeting. The board approved Policy 613 concerning graduation requirements, detailing required credits in various subjects and upcoming changes to government citizenship requirements. Additionally, the board conducted a second reading of policies related to student discipline, dress code, and library materials, addressing Title IX implications and ensuring appropriateness within the school environment.

The board addressed the need to declare certain desk systems obsolete due to their deteriorating condition. Issues with the existing chairs, which were reported to break easily, necessitated the replacement of furniture to ensure a conducive learning environment. A motion to declare these desks obsolete was approved.

Lastly, the board discussed certifying the proposed levy for 2024, payable in 2025. As local property valuations increase, state aid diminishes, complicating financial planning for the school. A truth-in-taxation meeting was scheduled for December 16, 2024, at 7 p.m. to comply with state statutes. The motion to set this date and certify the maximum levy was made and unanimously passed.