A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the approval of the preliminary property tax levy for 2025, payable in 2026. A district representative explained that the levy, which contributes 20 to 25 percent of the district’s general funds, is important for maintaining necessary educational funding. The representative reassured the board that despite the projected rise in revenue, the average tax burden on property owners might remain stable or even decrease due to increasing property values and new construction.

Questions arose regarding the district’s approach to requesting the levy amount, with clarification provided that the district historically requests the maximum levy. This practice ensures financial flexibility and guards against potential shortfalls. The board discussed the implications of not requesting the maximum amount and how it might affect budgeting. The representative emphasized that while adjustments could be made to specific facets of the levy, such as referendum funding, the importance of seeking the maximum amount remains paramount.

The board also discussed property evaluations, clarifying that these are conducted by the county, not influenced by the board. This was highlighted to maintain transparency about the board’s role in the tax assessment process. The motion for the maximum levy was ultimately approved unanimously by the board.

The meeting also addressed attendance issues across the district, with a focus on Birch Lake Elementary. Concerns were raised about chronic absenteeism, particularly in fifth grade, attributed partly to students’ responsibilities at home, such as caring for siblings. Discussions emphasized the need to support families facing these challenges, with board members expressing a commitment to preparing students for their future, regardless of circumstances. They stressed the importance of improving attendance and academic performance through available resources.

Birch Lake Elementary Principal Julian Stanke provided an update on the school’s status, demographics, and programs. The school, which has seen an increase in enrollment to 246 students, serves a diverse population with significant multilingual and special services needs. Stanke highlighted the importance of consistent instructional practices and interventions to meet academic goals, including raising attendance rates above 90 percent. The recent expansion of the CUBS program, which supports students with significant medical needs, and the installation of a new accessible playground were noted as steps toward fostering an inclusive and supportive environment.

The board also heard updates from Oneka Elementary, where the principal outlined ongoing initiatives and student engagement activities. The school serves 457 students, with various programming clusters catering to diverse needs. Improvements in literacy outcomes for first graders were highlighted, along with community engagement efforts like bingo nights and mentorship programs. The principal emphasized the school’s dedication to exceptional service and exceeding expectations in student experiences.

A participant noted the high percentage of multilingual learners at Birch Elementary, prompting questions about how this compares to other schools and its effect on staffing requirements. The board acknowledged the challenges posed by these demographics, emphasizing the need for additional support to address them effectively.

In addition to academic and staffing concerns, the board discussed the importance of student experience goals, such as ensuring students feel valued, safe, engaged, and respected. Efforts to foster a positive school culture through daily class meetings and social-emotional learning initiatives were highlighted, along with plans for family engagement events and community dinners.