Pipestone School Board Discusses Esports Success and Alternative Learning Center Graduation Participation

Overview: The recent Pipestone Area School Board meeting featured an introduction to the district’s esports team, which has made remarkable strides in its inaugural season, and an important decision regarding the inclusion of Alternative Learning Center (ALC) seniors in the traditional graduation ceremony. Additionally, the board discussed concerns about coaching structures, financial reports, and ongoing facility issues.

Bloomington City Council Endorses Affordable Housing and Creative Placemaking Initiatives

Overview: The Bloomington City Council meeting, held on February 23, 2026, was marked by a series of notable decisions, particularly the endorsement of a major affordable housing development and the approval of the Creative Placemaking Commission’s 2026 work plan.

Mahtomedi School Board Reviews Audit Findings and Discusses Enrollment Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Mahtomedi School Board focused on the district’s financial health, as highlighted by an audit presentation, and discussed issues regarding enrollment management. These topics were complemented by reports on educational programs and community engagement efforts.

Parents Challenge Anoka-Hennepin School Board on Teacher Pay and Racial Education

Overview: During a recent Anoka-Hennepin School Board meeting, community members voiced concerns about teacher contracts and educational policies, while the board discussed various district initiatives and policy updates. Shayen Berby, a community member and co-founder of Parents for Good, criticized the district’s communication regarding teacher contract negotiations. Berby highlighted a graphic circulated by local media that inaccurately suggested pay raises for teachers. In reality, she argued, there were no actual increases in teacher pay, as the proposed healthcare contribution hikes failed to cover rising premiums, ultimately reducing take-home pay. Berby urged the board to consider a levy referendum to alleviate funding shortfalls, arguing that ignoring this option while anticipating budget cuts fails to uphold the board’s responsibility to provide a quality learning environment.

East Grand Forks School Board Grapples with Budget Shortfall and Girls’ Hockey Co-op Proposal

Overview: In a recent meeting, the East Grand Forks Public School Board tackled pressing financial issues, highlighted by a budget shortfall and deliberated on a contentious girls’ hockey co-op proposal. The discussions revealed a $1 million budget gap due to changes in the state funding formula and a decline in student enrollment, alongside a divided board vote on a girls’ hockey co-op agreement intended to sustain the program and comply with Title IX requirements.