A prominent focus of the meeting was the American Indian Education Program, where the board discussed efforts to affirm the cultural identities and educational needs of American Indian students. The program collaborates with the Native American Parent Advisory Committee (NAPAC) to ensure alignment with the needs of students and families. Notably, the committee voted a resolution of non-concurrence, highlighting the necessity for substantial improvements in staffing and resources. Concerns were raised about the overwhelming workload faced by the two staff members serving approximately 234 students across 13 schools. Recommendations included increasing the American Indian education staff to at least three positions—one leadership role and two liaisons—to better provide cultural and educational support.

The program’s mission, as conveyed by the American Indian Education Coordinator, aims to empower students to reach their full potential. The district utilizes the 506 federal form to gather crucial data on students’ tribal affiliations, which is essential for securing funding through the Title VI Indian Education Formula Grant Program. The integration of native languages and cultures into classroom instruction is supported by resources such as an internal website that offers recordings of books in Ojibway and Navajo languages. The new American Indian education and cultural liaison introduced herself, noting her tribal background and commitment to enhancing cultural connections and educational materials.

Additionally, the program includes initiatives like weekly lunch groups featuring Ojibway language games and craft circles at the elementary level, while secondary programming focuses on post-secondary pathways and career exploration. Upcoming events like college visits, manufacturing tours, storytelling sessions, and cultural workshops aim to enrich the educational experience for American Indian students. A projected 100% graduation rate for American Indian seniors at one high school was highlighted, with a special graduation honoring ceremony planned for May 7, 2026.

Subsequent discussions focused on an action item regarding a tentative agreement for the paraeducators’ contract, which affects approximately 341 employees. The new contract outlines starting rates for various classifications, such as $16.75 for support paraeducators and $20.75 for advanced paraeducators, with eligible employees receiving a 3% increase based on their start date. Changes in health insurance contributions and the introduction of paid family leave were also noted, with a total projected cost of 6.09% across the two-year contract.

Another topic was the early childhood program update, where efforts to reduce waitlists for preschool programs were discussed. Challenges include current waitlists for three- and four-year-old programs, which have prompted the introduction of a “Friday preschool experience” to create additional slots. Plans for the upcoming school year include expanding the program for three-year-olds to eliminate waitlists. The program’s high standards were emphasized, with all preschool programs holding a four-star rating under the Parent Aware system. Collaboration with community partners like United Way and Thrive plays a vital role in enhancing the program’s offerings.

The meeting also addressed district-wide goals, such as increasing graduation rates, boosting early literacy proficiency, and enhancing the diversity of the teacher workforce. Strategies for these goals involve language access plans, transportation solutions, and partnerships with early childhood programs to support school readiness. Efforts to increase representation of students of color in dual enrollment programs and to foster student leadership were highlighted. The teacher diversity goal focuses on recruitment and retention within affinity spaces for BIPOC and LGBTQI+ individuals.

The superintendent’s report celebrated district achievements, including teams advancing to state and national competitions, recognition of educators as semi-finalists for Minnesota Teacher of the Year, and an award for outstanding leadership. Committee reports included updates on the American Indian Education Program, special education, and financial matters related to the multi-purpose athletic facility and the Apollo project.