The school board spent considerable time deliberating over the proposal for extensive repairs to the secondary school gym. Two quotes were presented: one for minimal repairs and the other for a comprehensive overhaul. The consensus leaned toward the more extensive option, which included fixing safety straps, winches, replacing a basketball hoop, and addressing wear and tear on the gym’s curtain structures. The aging equipment and ongoing maintenance concerns underscored the necessity for these repairs to be addressed comprehensively to avoid repeated issues in the future. It was mentioned that one of the proposals suggested moving switches outside a closet to improve visibility and accessibility, although this would incur an additional cost of approximately $10,000. The importance of ensuring proper functioning and safety of the equipment was emphasized, with a suggestion to have the repair company inspect the work post-completion. The motion to approve the necessary repairs and updates was carried unanimously after a brief moment of confusion regarding the motion.

Another focal point of the meeting was the formation of a community task force to facilitate discussions about school facilities, with assistance from an architectural firm. The task force is expected to provide recommendations while the school board retains final decision-making authority. Concerns were raised about ensuring potential task force members understood the commitment required, particularly regarding attendance at meetings. A suggestion was made to include options for preferred meeting days in the application to accommodate applicants’ schedules. The board agreed on the necessity of establishing a deadline for applications to allow adequate review before the selection process begins, with the possibility of extending the deadline if too few applications were received. Strategies for informing the community about the task force and its application process were also discussed, including utilizing school events such as homecoming to distribute information and gather applications.

Superintendent Brownell provided an update on student enrollment, reporting a decrease from 725 to 720 students. Brownell expressed a desire to explore shared class opportunities, particularly in popular programs such as agriculture, and referenced the significant increase in online learning options post-pandemic, specifically citing Fergus Falls as a successful example. Brownell also announced upcoming education focus group meetings to gather staff feedback. He emphasized the importance of including feedback from both district residents and non-residents in these discussions. Additionally, he mentioned ongoing issues with securing drivers for the late bus service, which had not yet been operational, and highlighted the need for clear communication with families regarding the situation.

The board also discussed the budget, facing challenges including the potential need for a user fee or alternative solutions to address the driver shortage. Superintendent Brownell recommended approving a maximum levy to allow for adjustments based on enrollment changes, noting that approving a finite number could limit future flexibility. The board reviewed payment of claims, focusing on expenses related to grounds maintenance, custodial supplies, and an annual software cost. The motion to approve the payment of claims carried.

In the consent agenda, the board approved meeting minutes from previous sessions and several personnel items, including new hires and resignations. A correction was made to reflect the resignation of Elizabeth Dietrich, who had recently been hired. The board also reviewed a series of policies for their final reading, covering various operational and ethical standards.

Old business included a motion to approve a contract for the buildings and grounds director, which passed. New business addressed the acceptance of donations from various corporate sponsors, each contributing $500, among others. A roll call vote confirmed the acceptance of these donations.

The board also turned its attention to the e-learning plan for the 2024-2025 school year, which was presented without changes from the previous year. Superintendent Brownell emphasized the importance of preparing students for potential remote learning scenarios due to inclement weather and noted that devices had already been distributed to students. The motion to approve the e-learning plan carried without further discussion.

Finally, the board needed to certify the proposed property tax levy for 2024, payable in 2025, highlighting the ongoing financial considerations facing the district.