0:00A primary highlight of the meeting was the introduction of student ambassadors from various schools within the district, presented by Superintendent Julie Nelson. Three students, May Feran, Delena Manning, and Lydia Sobuka, shared their unique experiences as student leaders. May Feran, a fifth grader from Liberty Ridge Elementary, spoke about her role in the “Striker Squad,” a program where students help with school duties, and expressed her desire for healthier school meals, specifically mentioning her wish to include tater tot hot dish on the menu. Delena Manning, an eighth grader from Oltman Middle School, discussed how being a student leader has empowered her to voice her opinions and proposed a new initiative called “Pioneers,” aimed at fostering friendships among students after school. Lydia Sobuka, a junior from East Ridge High School, emphasized the importance of student representation in school decisions and shared how her family’s immigrant background has influenced her educational perspective.

The students’ perspectives were met with interest and appreciation from the board, highlighting the district’s dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for student voices.

Another topic of the meeting was the financial discussion related to the sale of certificates of participation series 2025A, which was intended to finance the acquisition and remodeling of a building for the special education transition program. Chris Blackburn, the Director of Business Services, presented the details of the sale, noting that the district received five bids, with Key Bank Capital Markets Incorporated offering the lowest interest rate at 4.03%. This rate was lower than the earlier estimate of 4.33%, resulting in a total issued amount of $8,980,000, under the previously authorized amount of $9,445,000. The favorable sale results highlighted the district’s successful financial planning and ability to attract competitive bids.

19:49In addition to the certificates of participation, the meeting included a review of updated project cost estimates and a discussion on the deposit to the construction fund, which totaled $9,192,250. This amount was considered sufficient to cover projected costs. The district maintained an A1 rating from Moody’s, with the new issue receiving an A2 rating. The board acknowledged strengths in the district’s credit profile, such as a robust local economy and strong resident income, though concerns about the fund balance and long-term liabilities were noted.

The board also addressed the fiscal year 2023-24 audit results, which received a clean opinion.

A point of contention during the meeting was the proposed policy changes, particularly policy 102 concerning equal opportunity education. One board member expressed concerns about the implications of this policy, specifically mentioning the potential impact on women’s sports within the district. The member argued that the policy could allow individuals with male genes and anatomy to participate in women’s sports, raising questions about the safety and fairness for female students. Another board member echoed these concerns, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the policy’s potential risks and alignment with legal standards.

Despite these concerns, the motion to approve the policies, excluding policy 102, passed with a majority vote. Superintendent Julie Nelson noted that opportunities for discussion had been available previously, yet the concerns were only raised during the current session. The board’s decision to exclude policy 102 from approval reflects the ongoing debate and need for further evaluation of its implications.

The superintendent’s report provided brief updates on ongoing construction projects and preparations for the next academic year, including student registration and staffing. It was announced that there would be no school on the following Monday in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, aligning with the 60th presidential inauguration. Future meeting dates were confirmed, with a workshop scheduled for February 6, 2025, and a business meeting on February 20, 2025.