A significant portion of the meeting focused on the district’s transportation system, which has been undergoing substantial adjustments due to the implementation of a new routing software, Travers. This change, aimed at enhancing the efficiency of bus routes and student data management, has faced technical challenges, leading to delays in communication with families. The integration difficulties with PowerSchool, the district’s student information system, have caused inconsistencies in data, resulting in frustration among transportation staff and delayed notifications to families affected by the route changes.

The board acknowledged these issues, emphasizing the importance of accurate data to avoid miscommunication. Despite efforts to manage these challenges with the help of three different consultants, significant problems remain. One board member voiced frustration over the delayed communication, stating that families should have been informed of the changes weeks earlier. The district had initially planned to notify families by mid-July, but due to the need for accuracy, the information was only disseminated the previous week, impacting approximately 200 families.

The reduction in bus routes has led to an increase in the number of parents driving their children to school, raising concerns about traffic congestion during drop-off and pick-up times. This issue is particularly acute at Stillwater Middle School, where the physical layout limits the capacity for adjustments to traffic patterns. The board discussed the potential safety implications of mixing bus and car traffic and the need for better communication strategies to keep families informed of any changes in transportation arrangements.

In addition to transportation issues, the meeting addressed the resignation of board member Dr. Poor Benny, who announced her decision to step down at the end of August due to family circumstances. Dr. Benny expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community and emphasized the importance of being present and accountable in her role. Her departure marks the end of a four-year tenure on the board, during which she contributed to various initiatives and decisions aimed at improving the district.

The announcement of her resignation was met with farewell messages from her colleagues, who praised her dedication and leadership. One member commended Dr. Benny for her grace and thoughtful insights, noting the impact she had on the board’s dynamic. Another highlighted her ability to find common ground and contribute to making the board more professional, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic.

The meeting also covered the design and construction plans for two new school buildings in Bayport and Lake Elmo. Discussions centered on the architectural features and educational philosophies guiding these projects. The Bayport Elementary is designed to accommodate approximately 600 students and is set to begin construction in early spring, contingent upon receiving necessary approvals. The design emphasizes safety, with features like a centralized lockdown button and multiple exit points.

In Lake Elmo, the new school is planned to open in the fall of 2026, with a capacity for 1,100 students. The design incorporates elements inspired by the local watershed and aims to create a vibrant and engaging environment for students.

The expansion of the Comprehensive Inclusion Program (CIP) to additional sites, including Lake Elmo, was discussed as a priority to better serve students with diverse needs. The design of new facilities aims to support a dynamic learning environment, with features like operable walls and shared spaces for collaboration.

Board members raised questions about the impact of these new designs on teaching methods and the need for professional development to support educators in adapting to these changes. The board acknowledged the importance of creating versatile classroom settings that can accommodate various instructional needs while ensuring that the designs align with educational goals.