The meeting opened with an urgent discussion led by Superintendent Kent Pekel on the unexpected termination of a federal grant intended to support mental health services within the district. The grant, designed to train school staff in mental health support roles, was terminated by the U.S. Department of Education to take effect on December 31, 2025. Superintendent Pekel highlighted the grant’s critical role in enabling staff members to earn necessary licensure and degrees, noting that it covered tuition and provided mentoring as well as substitute pay. The grant’s termination threatens to derail the progress of current participants and halt future enrollments, potentially leaving many students without essential mental health support.

Superintendent Pekel read a letter from the Department of Education regarding the grant’s termination and expressed hopes to file a request for reconsideration. The board members voiced concerns over the budgetary implications and the broader impact on student mental health.

The meeting then shifted to addressing a recent racial incident that had sparked community outrage. Dr. Stephanie Whitehorn shared her indignation over an incident where a young Black child was subjected to a racial slur by an adult. She criticized the crowdfunding campaign supporting the adult responsible, which raised over $800,000, and condemned the harmful comments made in support of the campaign. Dr. Whitehorn called for action and accountability, emphasizing the need for the community to speak out against racism and discrimination, urging that “Silence is complicity. Silence is agreement. Silence is a choice.” The board acknowledged the emotional impact on students and staff, committing to fostering safety and belonging within schools.

Recognizing student achievements was another focal point, with students from Mayo High School’s Global Affairs Club sharing their success at the Academic World Quest competition. They expressed gratitude for the financial support from the Mayo High School Booster Club and Global Minnesota, which minimized their out-of-pocket costs. The students recounted their fifth-place finish at the national level and discussed the topics they prepared for, such as critical minerals in Africa and artificial intelligence related to NATO. They highlighted the privilege of engaging with representatives from the UAE embassy and a Mexican ambassador, describing these interactions as eye-opening experiences that fueled their interest in international affairs.

The meeting also touched on ongoing budget preparations, emphasizing the uncertainties surrounding state and federal funding. Dr. Jean Marvin expressed the need for a finalized budget by July 1, acknowledging potential revisions post-approval due to legislative delays. The board discussed the autonomy of building leaders in reallocating funds and agreed on a conservative budgeting approach, focusing on clarity and transparency in budget documents.

In a video presentation, the board explored the adoption of instructional methods emphasizing deeper learning experiences. A principal noted the ineffectiveness of traditional lectures for modern students, highlighting a shift towards more engaging teaching practices. The discussion included recognition of student-led support programs and their role in fostering a positive school climate. One board member praised the efforts of student leaders in creating supportive environments through programs like TOPS.

The board further considered frameworks for enhancing student success, focusing on mindsets, behaviors, and the “67 steps to success” for post-secondary readiness. Concerns were raised about the frameworks’ college-centric nature, with calls for broader representation of pathways such as trades and military service. The board emphasized the importance of ensuring all students feel valued and have viable paths after high school.