Chief Financial Officer Bridget Peterson provided a detailed update on the fiscal year 2026 budget, emphasizing the challenges posed by increasing operational costs against stable revenue growth. The district anticipates a 3% rise in salaries and a 4% increase in benefits, alongside significant transportation cost escalations. These increases contribute to a projected $750,000 budget rise from the current year. Peterson noted that the district faces a potential $45,000 deficit for FY26, with larger shortfalls expected in subsequent years if current conditions persist.

Peterson highlighted a 2.74% increase in general education revenue, although conservative estimates for future years necessitate careful financial planning. The district’s finances are further strained by automatic teacher salary rollups, property tax levy adjustments due to lower enrollment, and decreasing interest earnings. Despite these challenges, the board approved the preliminary budget unanimously.

Superintendent Jeff Ridlehoover reflected on a successful academic year, citing a 94.5% graduation rate at Rockford High School, surpassing the state average by 10.3%. The district filled all staffing positions, and teachers are eager to participate in summer training sessions.

In terms of instructional improvement, the board reviewed the innovative coaching structure aimed at enhancing teacher growth and student achievement. Flexible observation schedules allow teachers to be observed multiple times in a condensed period, fostering continuous professional development. The shared leadership model, now in its second year, has been well-received, with plans to maintain this approach in upcoming academic years.

Sixty-three students participated in IB exams, with the potential to earn up to $225,000 in college credit based on their scores. Notably, two students, Max Edwards and Riley Moran, achieved the full IB diploma, while Marcus Ditman earned a career-related diploma, planning to pursue business administration at the University of Minnesota. These accomplishments underscore the district’s focus on rigorous academic standards and student success.

Efforts to improve grading practices were discussed, with a consensus reached to standardize the model across grades five through twelve. This initiative aims to clarify grading codes, reduce confusion, and align assessments with high school standards. The board noted significant improvements in student performance, particularly in eighth grade, where the number of students with multiple failing grades decreased markedly.

Summer school programming emerged as another key focus, with sessions scheduled from June 9th to August 7th. The program aims to offer credit recovery and enrichment activities, with increased enrollment expected compared to previous years. The board discussed the financial implications of summer school operations, including potential reimbursement aid and logistical considerations for delivering programs across multiple locations.