Stillwater School Board Faces Community Concerns Over Cell Phone Policies and Financial Challenges

Overview: The Stillwater Area School Board meeting was a forum for addressing the issues of cell phone use in schools and potential fiscal challenges due to legislative changes. Community feedback shaped discussions on implementing cell phone policies, and board members reviewed the implications of Governor Walz’s proposed budget on school funding.

White Bear Lake School Board Approves Significant Increase in Micro-Purchase Threshold

Overview: During a recent meeting, the White Bear Lake Area School Board approved several key changes, including a notable increase in the micro-purchase threshold for district spending, updates to course selection processes, and the reorganization of board roles. The board also confirmed its legal counsel for the upcoming year and addressed community engagement through various educational initiatives.

Lake Elmo Elementary Faces Staffing, Capacity, and Legislative Funding Challenges Amid New Developments

Overview: The Stillwater Area School Board meeting primarily focused on the challenges faced by Lake Elmo Elementary School, including staffing shortages, capacity issues, and legislative funding concerns. Discussions covered the implementation of a new dual language program, updates on the new school building’s construction, and financial pressures from legislative mandates.

Mahtomedi School Board Approves Bond Refunding Amid Market Uncertainty

Overview: The Mahtomedi School Board convened for a special organizational meeting, where the most discussion focused on the approval of a resolution to refinance bonds, which could yield projected savings of approximately $1.4 million based on current interest rates. The meeting also included the election of new officers and committee appointments, as well as discussions on board compensation and upcoming events.

Stillwater School Board Faces Community Divide Over Identity Harm Protocols

Overview: At a recent Stillwater Area School Board meeting, the proposed identity harm protocols became a focal point of discussion, highlighting community division on how bullying related to identity should be addressed. The protocols aim to address bullying based on race, gender, religion, and other aspects of identity, with opinions sharply split between those advocating for their implementation and those questioning their necessity and effectiveness.