The proposal to video stream public forums was introduced by a board member, with the intention of increasing transparency and community engagement. However, the motion met with immediate resistance from other members, who described the discussion as “undiplomatic and an improper matter” for the current agenda. The objection was supported by a majority vote, effectively halting any immediate consideration of the streaming initiative. This decision underlined a divide among board members on how to best facilitate public interaction and transparency within the district’s governance.

In the realm of financial oversight, the board delved into the quarterly revenue and expense report for the 2025-26 budget. A board member raised concerns about the absence of estimated year-end projections alongside the revised budget figures, questioning the effectiveness of tracking deviations from the original budget. The financial staff clarified that the revised budget aimed to reflect year-end estimates rather than a detailed monthly breakdown, emphasizing that no other district operates with monthly or quarterly budgets.

The board also scrutinized specific items from the consent agenda, such as a payment to Green Solar Leasing LLC and significant unemployment expenses amounting to $800,000. Members sought clarification on whether these expenses were related to lease payments or electricity costs, and the conversation expanded to cover the district’s purchasing processes. Concerns were raised regarding the standardized procedures for Amazon purchases and contract approvals, with calls for more consistent oversight and transparency in these areas.

Turning to academic matters, the board reviewed new course proposals for the 2026-27 school year. The high school administration outlined several new courses, highlighting changes aligned with the district’s goals and values. There was a particular focus on balancing student interests with educational requirements, as board members emphasized the importance of offering courses that meet both state standards and graduation requirements. The conversation also addressed the inactivation of courses with low enrollment, with discussions on potential independent study or online options for interested students.

The board further examined the proposed school calendars for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 academic years, which included an earlier start before Labor Day. This change was intended to allow for an earlier end to the school year, better alignment with trimester breaks, and improved preparation for state testing.

In other notable discussions, the board received a report on upcoming Veterans Day activities and the high school’s fall musical production of “Cinderella.” The presentation included details on various district programs honoring veterans and efforts to engage the community through events like “coffee with Dr. K.”

Finally, the board addressed a bid for the White Bear Lake Area High School roof replacement project, initially approved in April but reopened due to tariff fluctuations. The new bid from Peterson and Brothers Roofing was slightly lower than the original, and the project was confirmed to fall under the Long-Term Facilities Maintenance plan rather than the bond referendum budget.