In a notable shift in governance structure, the board approved a motion to establish a co-chair leadership model, replacing the traditional chair and vice-chair roles. The decision was driven by a desire to offer future boards flexibility in leadership arrangements. Concerns were expressed about the implications of this change on diploma signing and adherence to legal requirements. The motion included a contingency to allow future boards to revert to the previous model if desired. Nominations for co-chairs were postponed, pending the drafting of a resolution to formalize the new structure.

Concurrently, the board engaged in discussions about student discipline, particularly focusing on the high incidence of cell phone violations and attendance issues across the district. A presentation revealed that cell phone infractions constituted the majority of discipline incidents, with 704 cases recorded between September 1 and April 1. These cases accounted for 48% of all discipline incidents, prompting concerns about classroom disruptions. The conversation highlighted the need for proactive communication with parents to address behavioral issues before they escalate.

The board also addressed the recurring problem of vaping among students, with a new ticketing system introduced to impose fines on minors caught with vapes. Despite this move, there was frustration over the county attorney’s reluctance to prosecute such cases. The board acknowledged the impact of chronic offenders on the learning environment, emphasizing the importance of balancing individual needs with classroom well-being. There were calls for clearer expulsion policies for severe infractions to ensure accountability and maintain a conducive learning environment.

In tandem with discipline discussions, the board explored the implementation of a youth apprenticeship program aimed at providing high school seniors with practical work experience. The program would allow students to complete core classes in the morning and engage in apprenticeships in the afternoon, aligning with their career interests. This initiative is designed to enhance educational experiences and career readiness, offering a more flexible framework than the existing work-based learning program. The school is in discussions with the Minnesota Department of Education to finalize training agreements, with plans to launch the program by the following fall.

The board also reviewed updates on the fiscal year 2025 budget, with the business manager reporting stable enrollment numbers and positive trends in property taxes and local fees. General fund revenues and expenditures were on track, with a slight surplus in salaries and wages. Projections for the fiscal year 2026 budget include a 2.74% increase in state aid, with minimal changes anticipated in other revenue categories.

In addition to governance and educational initiatives, the board recognized community support through donations. Contributions totaling over $15,000 were acknowledged, with specific mention of funds directed toward the robotics program and crisis go bags. These donations reflect strong community engagement and commitment to enhancing educational resources for students.