04:51The meeting began with the board presenting the annual evaluation of Superintendent Dr. Michael Thomas for the 2024-25 school year. The board commended Dr. Thomas for his leadership in fostering a culture of cooperation within the district, highlighting his patience, professionalism, and respectful interactions with staff. The evaluation underscored Dr. Thomas’s role in coordinating school improvement strategies and maintaining fiscal discipline amidst budgetary constraints. The board encouraged Dr. Thomas to continue building community partnerships and enhancing district unity.

12:42The discussion of academic metrics, particularly the implementation of math pathways and the use of data to track student progress, formed a substantial part of the meeting. Dr. Thomas introduced strategic metrics, including the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCAs) and other formative measures like FastBridge data, to assess student achievement. The board focused on enhancing the multi-tiered system of support to address various student needs and prevent unnecessary special education referrals. There was an emphasis on ensuring that the district’s academic goals align with its strategic plan and on promoting transparency in tracking educational progress.

01:08:49The conversation also turned to the implementation of the College Preparatory Mathematics (CPM) curriculum in middle and high schools. The board reflected on the first year of CPM in middle schools and plans to introduce SAVIS for advanced eighth-grade courses in the upcoming academic year. Concerns were raised about the rigor of the curriculum and the pacing compared to neighboring districts, with some members questioning whether students were adequately prepared for advanced math courses and college entrance exams. The board acknowledged the need to address feedback from parents and students regarding the new curriculum, focusing on balancing academic excellence with support for students facing challenges due to increased rigor.

05:54The meeting then delved into discussions about board policy procedures. Significant concerns arose regarding the process for revisiting policy 904, which had been voted on unanimously a year ago. Members expressed confusion and frustration over the lack of adherence to established procedures, emphasizing the need for proper governance and clear communication. The discussion revealed a lack of consensus on whether the policy should be reconsidered.

01:33:18Further debate centered on the governance policies, particularly regarding the enforcement of board member conduct and public participation in meetings. Members expressed differing opinions on the necessity of procedural policies and the balance between maintaining structured governance and fostering open communication among board members.