Superintendent Dr. Matthew Mingle provided a comprehensive enrollment update, revealing that the current student population reached 1,707, which surpassed projections by 50 students. This figure is only slightly lower than the previous year’s closing enrollment of 1,719 students. The increase necessitated immediate action, resulting in the opening of new homerooms and hiring of additional staff to maintain optimal class sizes, deviating from the usual practice of finalizing enrollment numbers by August 1st.

Dr. Mingle attributed the enrollment rise to recent developments in local housing, particularly noting the influx of students from the Aster Grove development. Additionally, inquiries have been received from families moving into newer developments in the Woodland zone. He acknowledged that while the district is managing the current enrollment effectively, continued growth is anticipated as more housing projects are completed.

The implications of this demographic shift were further underscored by the notable increase in students qualifying for no-cost lunch, which rose from around 40 students four years ago to over 200 this year, representing 12% of the student body. This change has led to the initiation of a breakfast program, aligning with state guidelines. The district’s special education programs have also expanded significantly, particularly the autism program, which grew from two classrooms to five over recent years.

In light of these developments, the board also discussed potential impacts on future enrollment, with projections suggesting that new housing could bring approximately 418 additional school-age children into the district. Dr. Mingle highlighted the importance of planning for these increases while maintaining current educational standards.

The board’s attention then shifted to their self-evaluation process. They evaluated their performance and set new goals for the upcoming year, focusing on areas within their influence. These goals included effective communication strategies, particularly concerning enrollment growth and strategic planning. Board member Ms. Laura Keller emphasized the need for improved two-way communication with the broader community, suggesting that while the board has communicated well with parents, outreach to engage the wider community could be enhanced.

To bolster community engagement, the board proposed leveraging members’ social networks to share information about school activities and district developments. They considered setting a goal requiring each board member to undertake at least one outreach effort within the community, supported by the communications committee. This initiative aims to expand outreach beyond parents to include individuals without children currently enrolled in the school system.

The meeting also revisited the district’s cell phone policy, which prohibits electronic communication device use during school hours. Dr. Mingle noted that the policy has been in place for about a year, with varied enforcement across grade levels. The board discussed the potential need to revisit the policy to ensure its continued effectiveness, especially in light of stricter regulations in other states, like New York.

Further discussions centered on curriculum revisions and technology updates, particularly regarding middle school cycles. A committee recommended approval of changes, including the transition from “English as a second language” to “multilingual language” and the introduction of resources aimed at teachers for grades K to 5.

In addition, the finance and personnel committee addressed timelines for superintendent and board self-evaluations for 2026, as well as challenges related to substitute teacher recruitment. The committee brainstormed potential solutions to improve substitute teacher availability and discussed strategies for community outreach regarding school achievements and enrollment.

Finally, planning for growth, especially concerning the preschool program, was a focal point. The board discussed adapting to projected enrollment increases while serving current preschool students’ needs. Despite considering applying for state preschool expansion aid, the board opted not to pursue it this year, instead focusing on delivering a high-quality, inclusive preschool experience.