The board’s approval of the agreement with Krauss Anderson marks a critical step in securing bond approval for upcoming construction projects. The contract includes an $11,000 fee for pre-referendum planning services and a $30,000 fee for pre-construction services, contingent on the bond’s successful passage. This agreement is part of the board’s broader strategy to manage upcoming infrastructure projects effectively.

Simultaneously, the board faced financial challenges as the business manager presented a revised general fund budget. The new budget reflects a shift from an anticipated surplus of $5,500 to a projected deficit of $204,000. This change is largely attributed to increased expenditures following the finalization of contracts related to salaries and benefits, amounting to an additional $127,000. The business manager highlighted that the budget is conservative, with revenues estimated lower and expenditures higher than expected, noting that enrollment fluctuations will continue to be monitored as they impact revenue.

Board discussions delved into specific budget line items, such as pending payments for lawn and snow removal, staging for the district’s north and south walls, and auditorium equipment. These were identified as contributors to the budgetary shortfall. Despite these challenges, the board expressed confidence in the ongoing fiscal monitoring and management strategies.

The superintendent’s report emphasized recent professional development initiatives for teaching staff, which included training in Letters work for elementary educators and conscious discipline for pre-K staff. The superintendent underscored the importance of Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and guided questions to maintain a focus on educational improvement. Additionally, a book study on “The Anxious Generation” was introduced.

In response to recent weather conditions, the superintendent discussed communication challenges during school closures and delays. The district, having exhausted its TOPS day, plans to implement e-learning for any future closures. Further, the superintendent addressed the upcoming Minnesota paid family medical leave program, set to begin on January 1st, highlighting concerns about its sustainability and costs.

The board also turned its attention to the upcoming organizational meeting and committee memberships. Various committee assignments were reviewed to ensure continuity, especially given the anticipated absence of a member at the next meeting. Committees discussed included buildings and grounds facility planning, finance, personnel, public engagement, and policies. While no changes in committee assignments were expressed, the board acknowledged the importance of regular meetings to enhance committee effectiveness.

In other business, the board approved a resolution accepting donations from community organizations, including Barrett Care Center and Mid Minnesota Credit Union, totaling several thousand dollars for school programs.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the superintendent’s midyear evaluation. Board members reviewed a comprehensive deliverables list and discussed the necessity of clearly defining the superintendent’s priorities for the remainder of the school year. Emphasis was placed on enhancing communication about operational expenses and engaging the community in understanding the district’s role and initiatives. The superintendent plans to gather feedback through surveys and strengthen PLCs to improve teaching strategies and staff collaboration.