The board’s decision to adopt a culturally responsive teaching evaluation rubric was a major highlight. This initiative responds to recent changes in state statute requiring districts to integrate culturally responsive pedagogy into teaching evaluations. The rubric was developed in collaboration with various stakeholders, including the administrative team, equity advisory council, and building leadership teams. The goal is to create an inclusive learning environment where all students feel represented. The rubric outlines standards for different proficiency levels, emphasizing the importance of representation in classroom decor and materials. A conversation about the balance between teacher and student contributions to classroom culture was part of the dialogue, with a focus on ensuring student agency in defining classroom norms. The board approved the rubric.

The preliminary budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year was another important topic. The budget outlines a starting fund balance of $5.5 million with projected revenues of $28 million and expenditures of $28.1 million, resulting in an expected ending balance of $5.38 million. Discussion centered on the impact of manual adjustments and potential legislative changes on the fund balance. The board expressed concern about the community service fund, which historically required supplementation, highlighting the need for strategic financial planning. Projections show the fund balance could drop to $1.8 million by the 2028-2029 school year if current assumptions hold. The board approved the preliminary budget, noting the importance of careful monitoring and adjustments based on future enrollment and legislative impacts.

The meeting also covered the approval of individual employment agreements for 19 positions, which adhered to a 3% total compensation guideline. Key changes included updates to serious illness and bereavement leave language, replaced with broader earn safe and sick time provisions. The board passed these agreements unanimously.

Another discussion was the annual membership in the Minnesota State High School League, now governing ninth-grade activities. The board debated the inclusion of trap shooting as a school-sponsored activity, focusing on the need for appropriate liability insurance coverage. This resolution was approved.

The board also considered its membership in the Minnesota School Boards Association, valued for its policy updates, training, and financial services. With a membership cost of $10,849 for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the board acknowledged the investment’s benefits, particularly in professional development and policy services. The motion to continue membership was approved.

In terms of facilities, the board authorized a lease with Hometown Bank for technology purchases, including Chromebooks, iPads, desktops, and interactive TVs. The lease was approved unanimously.

The board introduced a new three-tiered change order process for the middle school project, allowing more nimble approvals. Change orders under $50,000 can now be signed by the superintendent alone, those between $50,000 and $100,000 require consultation with the school board chair and treasurer, and orders over $100,000 need full board approval. This process was adopted to streamline project management.

A contract with True North Consulting Partners was approved to assist with the transition of incoming superintendent Dr. John Graph. The contract includes consultations on various projects and strategic priorities.

The meeting concluded with discussions about policy revisions and updates from building principals. These included revisions to Policy 412.1 related to expense reimbursement and Policy 610 concerning field trips. The latter sparked debate over liability and insurance coverage for non-school-sponsored trips, leading to a decision to table the discussion for further examination. Reports from principals highlighted successful summer programs and staffing updates, continuing efforts to enhance educational opportunities for students.