Public comments dominated the meeting, with residents expressing alarm over the implications of increasing teacher workloads and reducing physical education classes. Teachers and parents voiced their apprehensions about transitioning to a schedule requiring teachers to manage 5.5 out of 7 sections, effectively increasing their teaching load to six classes per semester. This model, rarely seen in high schools, was criticized for potentially exacerbating teacher stress, thereby affecting their ability to provide quality education and maintain effective teacher-student relationships. One high school teacher argued that the proposed schedule would place an undue burden on educators, likely resulting in diminished educational quality and teacher burnout.

Parents echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of teacher-student interactions beyond academic instruction. They argued that the increased teacher workload could curtail opportunities for these vital non-academic engagements, subsequently affecting students’ social and emotional well-being. Concerns over a decline in student enrollment since 2025 were also raised, with parents urging the board to improve communication and involve families more effectively in decision-making processes regarding changes.

The proposed reduction in physical education classes also drew criticism. Parents of elementary students expressed unease at the prospect of cutting gym sessions from daily to once or twice a week. They stressed the importance of physical activity for cognitive functioning and emotional health, with one parent citing research that links regular movement to improved academic performance. The implications of these cuts were viewed as potentially increasing disruptive behavior in classrooms and neglecting the holistic needs of students.

Superintendent Dr. Carlondrea Hines addressed these concerns, explaining that the schedule changes were necessary to combat low academic achievement and manage a projected $2 million budget reduction. Dr. Hines emphasized that the adjustments aimed to prioritize core instructional time while maintaining specialist instruction, and that the district had considered the recommended levels of physical activity during the planning process.

Beyond the schedule changes, the meeting also tackled financial matters with updates on midyear budget adjustments and budget assumptions for the next fiscal year. The finance presentation revealed a slight increase in the unreserved fund balance, now at $5.6 million, representing 8.2% of the budget. The board discussed the necessity of maintaining this fund balance to buffer against potential funding losses, given anticipated state and federal cuts.

Revenue for the general fund was reported to have increased, primarily due to state aid for special education, although expenditures rose similarly due to staffing costs. The board emphasized strategic efforts to attract and retain students, linking these efforts to overall academic achievement and district attractiveness. A proposed technology fee aimed at addressing losses and damages was also discussed, with assurances that no student or family would be adversely affected by its implementation.

The meeting also included a presentation on the district’s “World’s Best Workforce” goals, mandated by Minnesota state statute. The district’s data scientist highlighted challenges in meeting these goals, particularly in closing achievement gaps and improving college and career readiness. Despite efforts, the district did not achieve its target of a 2% increase in student readiness or a reduction in the reading gap between Black and white students. Discussions around these goals revealed a need for ongoing strategic planning and community involvement to address educational disparities.

An update on the Summer Learning Academy was provided, highlighting efforts to engage students through innovative programming. A member of the summer school curriculum team shared insights into a Food Science class designed for credit recovery, which integrates academic subjects with hands-on cooking experiences to spark student interest and engagement.

The meeting concluded with a focus on community involvement and legislative engagement, with board members expressing appreciation for community participation in educational matters. They acknowledged the challenges posed by the current financial climate and emphasized the importance of transparency and dialogue in navigating these issues.