The outdoor classroom at Lincoln Center was a prominent topic. The outdoor space, equipped with seating areas made from rocks, a chalkboard designed like a caterpillar, and new planters, facilitates a classroom-like environment. Materials such as whiteboards, markers, and cushions enhance its usability. This innovative setup has been well-received by students, who appreciate the opportunity to engage with nature. The calming sounds of the outdoors, such as chainsaws and mowers, are preferred by some students over typical indoor noises. The outdoor classroom has been used for silent reading and self-regulation, with students identifying weather aspects, including the sky, temperature, wind, and precipitation.

Future plans for the outdoor classroom include Minds in Motion classes and collaboration with Whole Foods for gardening and food science studies. A question regarding outdoor storage for materials was addressed, confirming that orders have been placed for two metal storage boxes to house cushions and materials.

Attention then shifted to the comprehensive achievement and civic readiness report, which replaced the “world’s best workforce” title from the previous year. The report outlines five goals: readiness for school, closing racial and economic achievement gaps, preparedness for careers and college, high school graduation, and ensuring lifelong learning for all students. A notable change is the removal of the goal stating that all students can read at grade level, now part of a separate report.

The presentation revealed that while some goals were not met in previous years, there are positive trends. For school readiness, the action steps for the coming year include improving screening processes for children aged three to five, forming a kindergarten transition team, and utilizing science of reading strategies among preschool teachers. The board discussed the need for students who start at different academic levels to achieve more than a year’s worth of growth each school year to close achievement gaps.

In terms of college and career readiness, the district aims for 80% of seniors to have detailed post-graduation plans. An online program called Zello assists students in exploring career options and documenting their educational plans throughout high school. The district’s graduation goal is being reevaluated, with plans to set a new baseline for future improvements.

Another topic of interest was the integration program, which promotes student engagement across districts, highlighted by the “Youth Ambassadors” program. This initiative, in collaboration with Two Rivers High School and St. Paul public schools, encourages students to plan and lead an event called “Beyond Our Walls.”

The board also discussed the acceptance of a $1,500 donation from Thomas and Jane Simmer for the outdoor classroom, expressing gratitude for the community’s support. The finance director recommended accepting the donation due to the classroom’s significance, and the board approved it unanimously.

In addition, a preliminary field trip request for the high school IB history class to visit Spain and Portugal in 2027 was discussed. Board members responded enthusiastically to the trip’s educational value, and the motion passed unanimously.

The importance of community engagement was emphasized, with ongoing efforts to gather feedback and support for educational initiatives.