001Good evening. It is 5:00. I will call to order the business meeting ISD 482. This March 9th, 2026. I'd like you all to please join me in the Pledge of Allegiance. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> The district mission statement is that Little Falls Community Schools works together for each learner to achieve academic and personal growth in a collaborative, safe, and engaging environment. Public comments. Kelly, do we have public comments? >> Yes, we do. >> Okay. While you are getting that, I will read the policy for public comments. Little Falls Community Schools welcomes you to the meeting of the Little Falls Board of Education. This portion of the
002agenda will be limited to a total of not more than 30 minutes. Individual speakers are asked to limit their comments to not more than 3 minutes. The board asks that all comments be in keeping with, contribute to, an atmosphere civil, courteous, thoughtful, and respectful discourse. Okay. Looks like we have Jolene Crosby. Do you want to just come up to the table there? Thank you. >> Hello. I'm Jolene Crosby. Um my husband Jim and I are here tonight to seek for the board's consent for detachment of our property from the Little Falls School District, so it may be annexed to the Swanville School District, as according to Minnesota State Statute 123A-45. We are asking for this change primarily for the fact that as a board you closed our elementary school in Randall and due to this
003permanent closure our three children are now enrolled in Swanville Elementary and we want our property taxes to be levied to the district in which our children attend. We have reached out to the Swanville school board and superintendent to make them aware that we are seeking the school district status change and they wholeheartedly support us. We chose to enroll our children elsewhere for several reasons. Overall, we wanted a small community where our kids matter, they feel accepted and they aren't just a number all while receiving a great education. It is boldly apparent how this school board views the residents in and around the Randall area claiming we have never fully supported the district, stating we brought this school closure on ourselves and you are confident enough to say our votes aren't needed for any upcoming referendum
004elections. With that being said, then we say let us go. Let us separate from Little Falls School District. We aren't a benefit for you anyway. Our property taxes are a mere drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things. We do not feel this is an outrageous or unheard of request because you see years ago our current superintendent's in-laws were granted their change request from Swanville District to the Little Falls District for their three children. In closing, we respectfully ask for your approval to change school districts so we may move forward to the next phase and on to the Morrison County Board of Commissioners. >> Thank you. All right, next I have the approval of the agenda. Everybody should have a copy. So, I'd be looking for a motion for the agenda. >> I'll
005so move. >> Um by or a motion by Sharon. I'll have a second. >> Second by Dan. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all in favor signify by saying aye. >> Aye. >> Opposed same sign? All right, motion carries. All right, next we have the consent agenda um consisting of personnel, approval of prior meeting minutes, and approval of financial transactions. Um assuming you've had a chance to look those over. Um so I would be looking for a motion to approve the consent agenda. >> So moved. >> Uh motion by Kelsey, do I have a second? >> Second by Mark. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all in favor signify by saying aye. >> Aye. >> Opposed same sign? All right, motion carries. All right, next Kelsey we have a resolution of acceptance of gifts. >> Whereas the
006following have generously offered to donate to Little Falls Community Schools, Central Minnesota Noon Optimist donation of $2,500 to Little Falls Community Schools Care Closet, Little Falls Sportsman's Club donation of $300 to Little Falls Schools Community Services for firearm safety, Furcht Millwork Incorporated donation of $500 to Little Falls Schools Community Services for AWD Programming, Cathy Adamek donation of $25 to Little Falls Community Schools CEC Scholarship Fund in memory of Bob Keaton, Susan Dublas donation of $100 to the Little Falls Community Schools Randall Area Scholarship Fund in memory of Gary Gannon, Daniel Bakey and Barbara Bakey donation of $100 to the Little Falls Community Schools Randall Area Scholarship Fund in memory of Gary Gannon, Faith Lutheran Church donation of $500 to the Little Falls Community Schools Care Closet. And Mid-Minnesota Federal Credit Union, donation of $2,500 to
007Little Falls Community Schools eSports program. We will do a second. >> Okay. And then a roll call vote. Dan? >> Yes. >> Doug? >> Yes. >> Julie? >> Yes. >> Sharon? >> Yes. >> Mark? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. >> Okay. Motion carries. Thank you. All right. Next on the agenda we have the uh Flyer Pride cards. Uh Let's see. How would you start us off, Dan? >> Okay. Grace Nagel, speech and language pathologist. Grace is a strong advocate for our youngest learners. She's often the first line of defense when supporting families of children who have a speech and language delays. She handles various scenarios with compassion and professionalism. Thank you, Grace, for all you do. Jenna Tolman. Charles Lockridge, DCD. Charles is a strong advocate for his students. He reaches out to staff regarding
008questions, double-checking schedules and accommodations for students, and coordinating events. He's great act example of Flyer Pride. He goes the extra mile for his school. Nicole Brandvold. Cerise Robinson, high school para. Cerise is such an awesome addition to our room. Wise beyond her years, always taking initiative, kind and such a blessing to both staff and students. Thank you, Cerise. Kara Schilling. >> Sure. Missy Cowell, she's a high school para. Missy's ability to multitask is second to none. I'm so thankful to have her on our team. She's efficient, helpful, and hardworking. Thank you, Missy. Kara Schilling. Joni Gilderon, paraprofessional at the middle school. Thank you, Joni, for being someone that all students can rely on. You are a fierce advocate for some of our most vulnerable. Thanks also for all your tireless work with the middle school
009yearbook, Rachel Cota. And Peggy Rackstad, fifth grade teacher. I asked a student of mine, "If you could give a Flyer Pride ticket to a teacher, who would you give it to?" My student said, "Mrs. Rackstad, because she's a really good teacher." I agree. As a co-worker, you can always depend on Peggy to communicate well with staff, and she works so hard to meet all of the kids' needs. Thank you, Peggy. Meg Cameron. >> Joel Holy, special ed teacher. Joel's students absolutely adore him. The unique needs he meets every day is something I have always admired. Joel is not only the voice of Flyer football and basketball, the director of fun at the middle school, and just an all-around great guy. He also has a heart of gold that connects our entire staff at the middle
010school. We love you, Joel. Rachel Cota. Lynn Saylor, retired para. Lynn continues to be simply the best. We are so blessed to have her sub in our room. She's typically working two to four days a week. Her kindness, work ethic, and willingness to do whatever is asked of her is unmatched. We love Lynn. Thank you. Carrie Schilling and crew. Christi Christina Vanhol, [clears throat] high school para. Stina does well with all she's given. She's willing to take charge when needed and help pivot and at a moment's notice. She's caring and kind to all students. I'm so happy she's part of our team. Thank you, Stina. Carrie Schilling. Michelle Schultz, uh special education special education teacher. Thank you for helping our team by taking on a different role this year. You go above and beyond to
011support our students both in small groups and in the classroom. Thank you, Michelle Joy for a while. Uh Lisa Brandon, EBD level three. Lisa has turned the level three EBD room into a space where education and emotional regulation comes first. Even when short-staffed, Lisa does not complain and it makes the best of every situation. Her rapport with the students is commendable. She is a great She is great example of our Flyer Pride. From Nicole Rembrandt Tracy Natzmer, Natzmer Am I saying it right? >> Natzmer, yep. >> Okay. Tracy continues to be such an incredible member of our sped team. Tracy is so kind, capable, and hard-working. She goes with the flow and takes anything you give her and takes it to care of business. Thank you, Tracy. From Kara Schilling. >> This was to Sher
012uh Sharon Flippin, ELA middle school. I have worked with I've never worked with someone more caring and dedicated to students. Every day she comes in is not only has great lessons for students, but also finds ways to make their lives better. Jonathan Larson To Whitney uh Toomey Whitney always has a positive attitude with a can-do. She is always willing to help, go above and beyond for students studies. We are lucky to have her. Anonymous. To Jennifer Bragg special ADS teacher. Jennifer works hard throughout each day to provide most for her students. When we are short-staffed, she is always stepping up to help out. She is a strong advocate for her students as demonstrated by her activities and communications and actions. Great example of Flyer Pride. Nicole Bromberg >> And I have Teal Lyon, high school
013para. Teal is always cool, calm, and collected. She works so hard to help her students grow. Teal takes direction well and always willing to help. I'm so thankful she's part of our team. Thank you, Teal. Cara Schilling. Pam Huck, paraprofessional at the middle school. Pam is an effective and loved para at the middle school. The students she works with are met with patience and compassion. Thank you, Pam, for being such a support for students and staff and for helping out with the middle school yearbook. We appreciate you. Rachel Kota. And Becky Abbott, high school social worker. I continue to be so thankful to work with Becky. She is a leader. She's hard working, takes initiative, and does such an awesome job working with all students and staff. She's got so many hats to wear at
014the high school and does fabulous work in all areas. You rock, Becky. Cara Schilling. And I guess I would add to with Day of Caring, that doesn't happen without Becky Abbott, so kudos to her. So. Okay. Um next we have our student rep presentations. All right, take it away, guys. >> So, this is our sports presentation. Don't worry, guys. Got to do more. >> [laughter] >> Elbow them out. >> Yep. So, an update on the sports. Winter sports have all wrapped up their seasons strong and many spring sports actually started practice today. Um many winter sports had a great end to their season with Ivan Patrick winning the state wrestling class double A weight class 216. Many other wrestlers competed well at the state tournament as well. Olympic weightlifters Payton Bartos and Zoe Lyon were
015their state champs for Olympic weightlifting, too. Um boys basketball finished their season winning their first playoff game in over a decade. Impressive. Girls basketball also ended their season with a second place finish in section 8 AAA. >> Um their robotics team this weekend they went all the way up to Duluth for their global robotics tournament. And um they told us there was more than 100 teams there. And today we found out that they ranked 29th out of all of those teams which is really good for them. They were really happy. Um we got to go see the robot in action last Friday. Me and Megan did. And then they told us all about how it's a tournament style and it's a four-day thing and they had nine matches. And 12 kids from Little Falls attended
016which they said was a good number and then >> [snorts] >> yeah, there was teams from Australia apparently. They said there was like three other countries that came and it's like a really big event. So they're really happy for how they did. >> We had a pep fest to celebrate the wrestlers that went to the state tournament. Ivan who was the state champion, Kobe got sixth place. Congrats to those two. And the rest of the qualifiers were Axel Posterrick, Noah Cameron, Kobe Cameron, Chas Guast, and Ivan Miller. >> The high school's currently holding our March Madness KerPlunk tournament. So that's always a hit during lunchtime. So I think the winners advance tomorrow and get to play. Are you still in it? >> I lost in the first round. >> Oh, >> [laughter] >> there's a
017picture of him playing I think. He was >> He was getting into it. >> Is it solo or team? >> It's teams of two. >> Okay. And do you pick your team or are they random? Okay. >> It was a tough one. >> Yeah. >> Um some avid students took a trip to Fest and helped set up. So, big shout out to them for helping out. And tonight is our 47th mass band concert. Uh, this is our first year with the fourth grade band, which is awesome. So, we will have seven bands performing tonight all the way up to wind symphony our highest in the high school. Showcases how they grow from fourth grade all the way up to senior year. And then also rehearsal for Mamma Mia the musical is in full swing and
018perform in May. Come see that. Put it on your calendars. >> What role do you have? >> I am Sam Carmichael. >> Woo. >> One of the dads. Yeah. >> Okay. This is our funny slide. We had to put it in. I talked to Jeff I used to talk to Jeff every day during sixth hour. So, we were talking about this. Our beloved custodian / engineer Jeff, he moved recently from the high school to Lincoln. And we had a very long in-depth conversation with him, me and Mary did. And we thought it would be a great opportunity to name the elementary school Majerus Elementary because now pretty much his whole family is there. So, his wife Becky and son Chris. And he's a little disappointed because now his boss is his son. And >> [laughter]
019>> we're just trying to make it a little better. So, this is our this is our plan. Thank you for your consideration. >> [clears throat] >> Put that in a motion. >> [laughter] >> Some upcoming events, the mass band concert is tonight at 7:00 p.m. in the high school gym. Track practice began today. Baseball practice begins next week. Softball started setting up today. Golf begins practice as soon as the weather will allow them, which today it probably could have, but And then Mamma Mia is May 1st through the through the third. And that is it. >> Okay. Any questions? Thank you very much. >> Yes, thank you. >> All right. Next we have the superintendent's report. >> I do want to go back to Jeff Majerus up here and and just speak to the importance
020that all of you recognize this as board members, but just speak to the impact that all employees have on our buildings and our students. And you see somebody like Jeff who works really hard, but also goes out of his way to build relationships with the students and the high school students love him and I appreciate the the humor in reference to renaming the elementary, but I know Jeff spent a little bit of time out at Dr. Knight last year as well and made a positive impact there. So, thank you for that great update. Um I wanted to point out in the consent agenda there were a number of items that you approved. One of them I think is really special and that's and we'll get an opportunity to recognize our retirees coming up at the
021end of the school year, but Mary Sitzman is an administrative assistant attendance guru at the high school and she is retiring at the end of this school year and Mary is at 50 years of service to Little Falls Community Schools and I haven't heard the final count, but either Mary or Dolores Carlson have the record for number of years. I'm sure many of you know who Dolores Carlson is or was. You did see also in the consent agenda there was an approval of Shana Sachs. Shana is the new teacher that took over for Joel Bartos. Excited to have her in that spot and then we filled a couple of track positions as we start track season. Joe was our head coach and we were able to fill that with a couple of internal candidates. There
022are some postings out there. Several long call sub positions were posted recently. We have at least three teachers that are going out on child care leaves as we start the fall. So, we want to stay ahead of the game and get those posted. There were two positions that were posted for our tech added area or CTE wing. One was an agriculture position and the other one is a just a straight industrial tech teacher position and we won't fill both positions, but we're posting both just to expand our candidate pool. And then you also saw a posting for a due process specialist that we currently have a due process specialist in our district that works with us remotely. She does a wonderful job of supporting our staff with due process and making sure our IEPs are
023up to date. And it's not an additional position. It would be replacing that position, but having somebody internally in the district is the goal. There's no cost impact and probably maybe a cost savings in the end depending on who we would find as a candidate. Our student athletes that are one of our athletes our student reps did a fabulous job of acknowledging the the success of our winter athletes and it isn't just about those who experience success, but it's pretty special when you have a state champion wrestler come through the system. It doesn't happen very often. One I think Ivan is our fourth state champion. Very proud of him and the other students who participated at the state wrestling tournament. Thank you for the shout out to the Olympic weight lifters and the robotics team.
024And a side note with Ice Fest and next month we'll have Chuck Zwilling and his daughter Becca here to talk a little bit about Ice Fest, but they were very excited to have some of our students help out this year from Avid. Sharon and I had a chance to meet with Chuck and Becca last week and we're excited for that partnership because a lot of their uh funding comes back to our school district. We will have an update at the April meeting for the activities director position. We have almost, I think it was about 25 applicants for that position. And we will start the interview process on March 20th. And we hope to have a football head coach position also uh determined at that point in time. This, actually today, is the anniversary, 1-year anniversary
025of Little Flyers Child Care Center opening. And we have a meeting this week with our community engagement board committee, Doug and Sharon and community education, to talk about Little Flyers and how things are going and perhaps some recommendations for the board to consider at the April board meeting. And then yeah, I think that's I think that's enough. >> Okay. >> Yes, thank you. >> All right, thank you. All right, next on the agenda we have new business. Um we have the property detachment request. Um I know Jolene we haven't I mean, you're certainly welcome to come up or Jim if you if you have something to speak, but you know, we'll and maybe we have questions for you or whatever, too, but I guess what I would like to do is um kind of get
026you you've kind of described the background in your in your in your comments and stuff, too, but um I guess what I would like to get is a a refresher of the um the statute and and what we need to to consider this. So, >> Yeah. Um thank you, Jolene, for presenting. And Jolene did reference the statute related to detachment and annexation of land. And I I have it up here on the screen. And the statute refers to um adjournment to the other school district. And Jo- Jolene described the process accurately that it's it's a petition that goes before the county. districts need to determine if they support it or not. Um yeah, I'll leave it at that. And Jolene, you chime in at any any point in time, but I just want to read
027this so that you have the information. It says, "For purpose of this section, land is adjoining a district if the boundary of the area proposed for detachment and annexation is the same as the district boundary to which attachment is sought at any point, including corners, or the area proposed for detachment and annexation is separated at any point from the district to which annexation is sought by not more than 1/2 mile, and the intervening land is vacant and unoccupied, or is owned by one or more of the following: the United States, State of Minnesota, or any of its political subdivisions." And the last part C really I don't think is relevant here, but I I do appreciate Jolene sharing some information with me, too, as we've emailed back and forth. This is a map of our
028school district. And I'll zoom in a little bit, but the area of the district that we're talking about is this section right over in this corner. And as I pull back and zoom in, you can see that See how that little parcel is a stand-alone, which is reflected right here on that map. So, just going back to here's where the Swanville School District is located, Little Falls District in green. The uh parcel of crop of the Crosby's property that's closest to Swanville is approximately 3 miles as the crow flies to the Swanville District. >> So, does that mean, Greg, that that little L-shaped brown piece above where you are? Right there. Was that detached at one point then? >> That was. >> Okay. >> Now, I don't know the history of this particular property, but
029if you if you look at school districts, you do see um one-offs. And you notice if you look around our district, you'll see some in different locations. Previous district I was in, it was the same thing. I don't know if these were official detachment requests or my understanding is when the school districts were determined, those that were on the borders had the opportunity to determine which way the boundary went. So, that's why you see some of that. >> Sure. >> So, is their property kind of an island sitting out there? >> No, this one is. Um Jolene, your property is here in the bluish-green color. >> one's there and then yeah. So, what I'm linking to there in the Swanville School District is state land. And that's the closest to us. But in between all
030those parcels, those are the intervening ones are farmland, agriculture. Um >> It's not jumping over residential property or anything. >> Right. Right. So, it's vacant farmland parcels. >> And your 3.34 is that miles away? >> Yes, approximately when I used that little when I used the tool on the county's website GIS mapping. >> So, it disqualify under the rules? >> Based on the on the statute that I read through, it it does not. It's not adjacent. It doesn't share a corner or a property line. >> And it's not the 0.5 miles that they said to that could be the other thing is if it's not butted up against or adjacent to this district then if it's at least 0.5 miles within, but ours is three. But then it got it could be waived considering the
031intervening parcels are all vacant farmland. >> Now, I understand what you're saying now. But according to statute, can we even do it? Or we'd have to do a special letter to the the state and ask for a exclusion? >> Yeah, you're not making a decision. You're you're just as a board, you're saying yes or no to the request. >> Then where does it go? >> Then it goes to >> to the county. Then we have to then I have a petition already all drawn up except for of course the consent from the Little Falls School District. Um and then I take this into the county auditor treasurer's office and then file the petition with them and then it gets brought to the next board meeting and goes through the Board of Commissioners. >> So, we
032wouldn't even have the authority to make this decision. It ultimately comes down to the county. It's just we have to be that first step to let them get to the county to actually >> Yeah, as Julie indicated, she had it has to go to both the school districts to do that. >> We've done it Yep, we've already reached out to Swanville. And then so the next was here. >> Can you go back to that language again? When you're talking your tax money, are you talking the portion that says school or all of your property is >> It would be the the school district. Which ours for 2025 was what it was for that parcel. For that parcel that was up there. >> I I just want to throw this out and I I know human
033nature would be that we >> That would >> I I get where the process is coming from. I understand your concern and with the closing of Dr. Knight and I I know in terms of the statute, we're we're close. We're 3 miles away, although it says a half mile. But I I just I don't I have to point out I think the obvious in that as a board, you have to be careful about precedent setting. And if you allow if you vote to approve this request um I don't have a crystal ball, but I'm assuming you would possibly have others that would come forward and and Jolene is is right. This one parcel wouldn't have a significant impact on our budget, but if you then set precedents by approving multiple, now you're >> Do we
034have any history of this happening? >> Pardon me? >> Do we have any history of this happening? >> Not that I'm aware of in the eight years I was in another district as superintendent, that did not happen. And I don't have any other requests from anyone in with a similar detachment request from Reno. >> Well, wouldn't the county have to follow the same rules that we would have to according to this island? >> County has to follow state statute, but I don't know what type of wiggle room they have. Not aware of how that works. >> Okay. >> I mean, we could contact the the property owners of the intervening parcels and see if they want to join in the petition to us so then we're all connected and we'd be closer than the 3
035miles. Then we'd Then we'd all butt up right against that state land and the school district. >> Yeah, I see what you're saying. I will tell you I wouldn't advocate for that. >> Can I speak for a second? >> Yeah, for sure. Come on up. >> So, also on that it says the state of Minnesota. We are within that full 3 miles is it? There's a state of Minnesota and it's where that wetland is there. That's all considered state state >> land. >> The brown stuff? >> The 20 >> Yeah, right there. >> Yep, the PID number 20 - 006.001. >> Yep, this one. >> That's Yep, that's the state land. 700 acres of state land. >> No, and then up up to the main center. Yeah, right there. >> All right, this one. Okay.
036>> Oh, that one is? >> Yep. It looks like the lake on the other map there. So, that's a wetland state state property. >> Yep. Yep, well, then >> Yep. >> So, you know, so then otherwise we're not looking at 3 mile, we're looking at it uh it gets a lot shorter, you know, in that distance. Especially when you look at the statute. You know, a state land or a federal. >> And not crossing over other >> Yeah. >> Mhm. I see what you're saying. >> And then the existing other land that's in there is all egg egg land, down homestead, we're all landlocked through there. It's and then a house there. >> A lot of it is owned by one one owner. >> Mhm. >> There's different parcels. So. >> Is there a timeline?
037I don't I don't want to speak on behalf of the board. I know you you have permission already from Swanville. You'd like to move this forward. Sometimes the board will hear a presentation and then make a decision at the next meeting. Does that impact your timeline? And I don't want to speak on behalf of the board and if you're prepared to make a decision or not, we have >> I would appreciate the extra time to make sure I'm the leg- legalities of it. And I'd also like to know if Jim's suggestion of or Jolene's which one of talking to the owners in between how that would impact the county also. >> Yeah, and it's not just us. It's being brought up by Pillager and everything else. We're just doing this on our own. >> We
038haven't Yeah. >> It's not It's not like we're Yeah. We're not going to ask these people. We're not We're just asking on our own diligence. >> Well, I'm also thinking and anybody on the board can but I'm pretty sure we've had families that have left our districts for no reason similar to what you guys had for reasoning. And then a year or two later they come back. After a while do they want to change their property tax again in 2 years again and and it's just is it stirring the pot a lot? >> Mhm. Yeah, it's >> It could be the family moved or you know, us for whatever reasons decided to go to Pierz or different district want to go through this procedure and then in 2 3 years, nope, we're going to go
039back to the Little Falls district. Then do we have to go through this whole system again to move things back? I can't imagine the state being real happy about doing that or the county. >> I I would I would agree. I would like the the month if that's okay to look at everything, make sure we're making the right decision for all parties involved. >> Our next board meeting is April 20th. >> Okay. >> Any further discussion or >> I just um The the main motivation is you wanted your kids in a smaller school. I understand that. Um but you also brought up that you'd rather your tax dollars go to the Swanville school system instead of Little Falls school system. So that's kind of like reason number two. >> Okay. Yep. >> No, I understand
040the first one. You're right. I I is Mr. Johnson want to ask a question. I'd ask the question at what kind of time line do we have? Cuz this opens up a not a can of worms, but like they said, if we make this decision for you, um not so much how many other people are going to come forward, but now we set a precedent. And and we're shrinking our school district. Which >> And the other ones are growing. >> Yep. And it may be good for us or may be bad for us, but that's what we need to check out. >> They're going up. Villages Villages going up. Swanville's going up. >> Yep. >> Pequot is declining. >> Mhm. >> They have some of those their their property taxes they have the students in
041their areas. >> Mhm. >> You know? We have three. And our property and we want to send our tax money to to Swanville. >> To support your kid. I can understand that. >> I understand that. >> Yeah. So. All right. >> I would appreciate I don't Do we need a motion for that? >> To just table it? >> To Okay, table it till next month? >> Yeah, just table it till next month. >> Thank you. >> Thanks for coming. >> Thank you. >> And then indefinitely and if there's any other information Jim that you guys come up with, please get it to Mr. Johnson. >> Chelsea, yeah. I can talk with Greg for or if you want me to email you guys. Either way. >> have questions. I've done my research. I'm a little researcher,
042so. >> Yes, you are. >> No, that's good. That's good. >> Thank you. >> I appreciate it. >> Thank you. >> All right, next 11.2 we have the approval of Grad Bash request to waive all fees related to food service and custodial service. >> I'll second the motion. >> Okay, I have a motion by Sharon, no second. >> Second by Mark. Any further discussion? >> we've made the same motion every year. >> Yeah, exactly. So. All right, hearing none, all in favor signify by saying aye. >> Aye. >> Opposed same sign. All right, motion carries. Next, the approval of the EMLF teacher contract for 25-26 and 26-27. I believe you've all had chance or we've discussed it. Do you have anything to add? >> No, unless there's specific questions. >> So. >> I make the
043motion to approve. >> Okay. >> I'll second. >> A motion by Mark and a second by Sharon. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all in favor signify by saying aye. >> Aye. >> Opposed same sign. All right, motion carries. Resolution relating to the non-renewal of teaching contracts of tier one and tier two teachers. Um, I believe this is something we have to do every year, correct? Okay. So, um, it was in your packet, so I would be looking for a motion to approve that. >> It's a resolution. >> Oh, yeah, you're right. So, Kelsey, take it away. Sorry. >> Well, did I didn't to a question. Yeah. We'll do it now. Okay. I thought we were short of special education staff. >> We are. We This is state law. We have to if you're a tier
044one or tier two teacher and if we have positions that are tier one and tier two, they have to be posted for 60 days and tier one teachers are non-renewed every year and tier two teachers are non-renewed every other year. So, it's >> And then they have to reapply. >> They can reapply. Yes. >> All right. So, it's nothing new really. >> During policy >> All right. >> Thank you, Kelsey. Yes. >> Pursuant whereas pursuant to Minnesota statute, tier one and tier two licenses are temporary in nature and subject to non-renewal and whereas the Board of Education has determined the non-renewal of the following tier one and tier two positions. April Elke Elizabeth Michelle >> Michelle >> Hard Hardinger >> Hardinger >> I'm so sorry. I'm going to butcher all these. Adeline McCoy Kristen Huck,
045Tressa Gashwiler, Peter Suska and Charles Lockridge. Now, therefore be it resolved the Board of Education of Independent School District 482 that the teaching contracts of said teachers listed above in tier one and tier two teaching positions in Independent School District number 482 shall be non-renewed at the end of the 25-26 school year effective June 30th, 2026. And be it further resolved that written [clears throat] notice be sent to said teachers regarding the non-renewal of the teachers' teaching contracts. >> I'll second it. >> Thank you. And then we'll do a roll call. So, Dan >> Yes. >> Doug >> Yes. >> Julie >> Yes. >> Sharon >> Yes. >> Mark >> Yes. >> And myself, yes. >> Okay, motion the resolution passes. Okay. Looks like now joint resolution for Little Falls Community Schools and the City
046of Little Falls future use of the middle school facility. >> Okay. >> This resolution was approved at the city council meeting last Monday by the council. And looking for approval from the board tonight. And this is a not as you'll read Chelsea and Don by an agreement. There's no financial commitment, really only to continue conversations about potential use of the middle school. And I do want to point out that it also speaks to I know the the other entities like the city and then we'll read about the Boys and Girls Club next that we would like to have those conversations. I think it says a lot on the board's and district's behalf that you also want to have these conversations prior to putting the building up for sale or having other ideas on how to
047use those facilities and you want to work with community entities. >> Okay, whereas the City of Little Falls and the Little Falls Community Schools share a long-standing commitment to collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and effective use in public facilities. And whereas the district has proposed a referendum to be voted upon on April 14th, 2026 which includes relocating programming currently housed in the middle school building. And whereas the City of the city and the district recognize the value of continued partnership and coordinated planning to best serve the residents of the Little Falls school community. And whereas both governing bodies desire to clearly communicate their shared interest regarding future collaboration should the referendum be approved by the voters. Now, therefore, be it resolved that contingent upon voter approval of the Little Falls Community Schools referendum on April 14th, 2026,
048the City of Little Falls and the Little Falls Community Schools express their mutual interest to collaboratively explore the potential use of available space within the existing middle school building for city offices, including the Little Falls Police Department, following the relocation of district programming. Be it further resolved that this partnership would be guided by the shared goals of responsible stewardship of public resources, efficient and effective use of existing communities facilities, enhanced delivery of public services, and continued cooperation between the city and the school district. Be it further resolved that this joint resolution represents a statement of shared intent only and does not constitute a legally binding agreement. Any future use of the middle school building shall be subject to further planning and evaluation, formal agreements approved by both governing bodies, and compliance with all applicable laws,
049policies, and procedures. Be it further resolved that this joint resolution shall become effective only upon formal approval by both the City Council of the City of Little Falls and the School Board of Little Falls Community Schools. And you you second. >> I will second. >> And we'll do a roll call. Dan? >> Yes. >> Doug? >> Yes. >> Julie? >> Yes. >> Sharon? >> Yes. >> Mark? >> Yes. >> And myself, yes. >> All right. Next is resolution, but in the same manner, but with the Boys and Girls Club. The Boys and Girls Club through their board discussions um tweak theirs a little bit. It's similar, but it's not identical language to what we have with the city. >> Am I reading the top one or the number two? >> This one that I have.
050>> My eyes are too bad for that. >> Okay. >> So >> Scroll up. >> The Boys and Girls Club of Minnesota, is this where I'm starting to read? >> Yes. >> Okay. Uh The Boys and Girls Club of Central Minnesota shares a partnership with Little Falls Community Schools to provide quality programs and services to Little Falls Community youth and their families through the Little Falls Boys and Girls Club and the Kids Stop School Age Child Care program at Lindbergh and Lincoln. The district has proposed a referendum scheduled for April 14th, 2026, which includes relocating programming from the current middle school facility. If approved by voters, this non-binding agreement expresses both parties' mutual intent to explore future opportunities for use of the middle school building after district programming has been relocated. The Boys and Girls
051Club of Minnesota and the district agree to the following statement of shared intent. Number one, exploration of use. Contingent upon voter approval of the April 14th, 2026 referendum, Boys and Girls Club of Minnesota and the district will collaborate to explore the potential use of programming or use of available space within the current middle school facility for Boys and Girls Club programming. Number issue two is shared goals. This exploration will be guided by shared goals of responsible stewardship of community resources, efficient and effective use of existing facilities, expanded services and opportunities for youth, continued cooperation between the Boys & Girls Club of Minnesota and the district. Number three is non-binding nature. This agreement represents a statement of intent only and does not create a legally binding obligation on either party. Any future use of the middle
052school facility shall be subject to further planning and evaluation, approval by both governing boards, formal written agreements, compliance with all applicable laws, policies, and procedures. And number four, effective date. This agreement shall become effective only upon approval by both the Boys & Girls Club of Minnesota Board of Directors and the Little Falls School Community Schools Board. >> I have a second. >> Um should probably be asking if you guys have any discussion. No? All right. >> Not at this point. >> Okay. Deanne? >> Yes. >> Doug? >> Yes. >> Shelly? >> Yes. Mark? >> Yes. >> And myself? >> Yes. >> Okay. The motion carries. Thank you. Next, 11.7, the approval of land purchase with Habitat for Humanity. >> You guys are killing me tonight. >> [laughter] >> All right. Got some throat lozenges? Okay,
053whereas the Little Falls Community Schools of Morrison County is the owner of certain real prop- real property located in Morrison County, Minnesota. And whereas the property is legally described as that part of the northeast quarter of the northeast quarter, section 17, Township 40, Range 32, Morrison County, Minnesota. And whereas the Habitat for Humanity of Morrison County has determined that acquisition of this property serves a legitimate public purpose, including educational programming and community partnership opportunities. And whereas the par- have agreed upon a purchase price of $25,000. Now, therefore, be it resolved by the school board of Independent School District No. 42, State of Minnesota, as follows: The school board hereby approves the selling of the approved described real property to Habitat for Humanity of Morrison County for the total purchase price of $25,000. The superintendent and
054board chair are authorized and directed to execute all documents necessary to complete the transaction. And the school district shall take all necessary steps to close on the property in accordance with Minnesota law. >> I'll second. >> Any discussion? Okay. Dean? >> Yes. >> Doug? >> Yes. >> Julie? Sharon? >> Yes. >> Mark? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. >> Seven more to go? >> [laughter] >> Are you kidding? >> Okay. Um, next, 11.8, referendum updates. Um, just informational. Is that you, Mr. Johnson? >> Yeah, anyone for that matter, but I I can provide a a few comments. Um, I know we the district's stance and position on a referendum is always providing the information. We are not We do not sway voters one way or the other. We leave that up to our constituents. I do
055want you to know, and I've shared in a few updates, that there is a a vote yes group that is working behind the scenes. Um, from a district standpoint, we have been working closely with the county and making sure that we have dotted our i's and crossed our t's when it comes to the election that's coming up. I know there's a couple more resolutions for Kelsey to read about that, and the county has been helpful, the city of Little Falls has been helpful. And we're very appreciative of the work that Kelly in our office and Chelsea Robinson have provided to make sure that we are getting all these tasks completed, that we're prepared for the election day and especially uh making sure we have enough election judges to support all three polling places. Next week
056on Thursday, we are hosting district will host a community meeting that is virtual. It'll be held in the conference room next door. Anyone here well is welcome to join me, but it will be a brief, very brief. I I know at the community meeting I said I would present for 20 minutes and it turned out to be 45. This will be a a brief 5-10 minute update and then it's really a Q&A session for anyone online. People can stay home, they can tune into Zoom and then be able to ask questions through the um comment section of of Zoom. >> What time is that at? >> That is at 6:00. >> That's p.m., right? >> [laughter] >> That is yes. >> That is p.m. Um we have a couple of of mailings that are ready
057to go out one per state statute that that states the polling places and the ballot questions. That'll probably go out this week or early next week. It has to be out by the end of the month. We have plenty of time. And then there'll be a probably a couple more postcards from the district going out sharing additional information. Mark, put you on the spot. Any thing we want else we should share, want to share or board members any questions that you have? >> Now, I think I think the only thing that I would bring up for for some of the maybe some of the feedback that um if people are concerned about whether voters may show up or not because they feel as though we're we're closing the middle school regardless, which yes, we are.
058Um but what I will tell you is that we're not the the referendum isn't about closing the middle school. It's about making the high school better for our future students and doing repairs that are just going to be continually increase in cost and get us to the next 25, 30 years or so. So, um I just want to make that distinction that um yes, the middle school is closing, but it's going to make a a significant difference to our students and our district that we get this passed. So. >> Anything else? >> I do want to give a shout-out to Jeff in the Morrison County Record again providing factual information about what we're doing and and the amount of information that's been out there. I know most recently there was an article about our visit
059to LeSueur-Henderson to look at their three-gym station and just perspectives from different people that'll be impacted by the referendum. And I I appreciate the comment Doug about the middle school because I I have heard that feedback as well and ultimately the closure of a school is going to fall on the back of the school board to have to make that decision following the formal process like we did with Dr. Knight, but when we look at you know, the data and the cost savings and the square footage and the benefits that that brings to the future of our school district in maintaining class sizes and and limiting the amount of times we hopefully have to go back to our taxpayers and be able to purchase curriculum and technology it just makes a lot of sense. >>
060Anything else? Okay. All right, next 11.9 is the review and comment from the commissioner. And I think that's just the information saying that the the information that we presented to Department of Ed in regards to the referendum and and the costs and kind of what the plan is and stuff has been approved. >> Yeah, and and thank you for that. It's not a rubber stamp process. It's a lengthy 60-day process. The state has the plan. They comb through everything. They look at our numbers. They fire questions back to us. We respond and in the end uh through the commissioner uh Commissioner Jett then sends a letter supporting our project with a positive review and comment. And I believe that's posted. Should be posted on our website if anyone's interested. Good. Okay. Well, Max, since we
061haven't heard your voice in a while, Kelsey. We have another resolution appointing election judges. >> Sounds good. >> Um All right. This is a resolution relating to appointing election judges for the April 14th, 2026 school district special election. Be it resolved by the school board of Independent School District number 42 of Minnesota as follows. It is hereby found, determined, and declared as follows. The following individuals, each of whom is qualified to serve as an election as an election judge, are hereby appointed as judges of election for the school district special election on April 14th, 2026 to act as such at the polling places listed below. The Initiative Foundation at 405 Southeast First Street in Little Falls, Minnesota. The head election judge, Laurie Cassella. Election judges, um Deborah Bolas, >> Bolas, Brian Frink, Karen Johnson, Linda
062Lockner, Jan Neighbor, uh Lynn Richmond and Diane Ring. Bethel Lutheran the next polling place at 901 West Broadway, Little Falls, Minnesota. Head election judge will be Jackie York. Election judges include Nancy Dobmeier, Gerald Lockner, Julie Richgels, Pat Sawada, James Storley Storley? >> Mhm. >> Jeff Toshida. And then the Randall Community Building, 531 River Road, Randall, Minnesota. The head election judge will be Sherry Wolinski. Judges include Judy who >> Fikek. Jerome Hartman, David Morissette, Janet Redka, Deb Samanthas. Oh my gosh. Sabrina Hanfler. >> [laughter] >> All right. Additional judges back up, Chuck Hower and [snorts] Jean Hower. The election judges shall act as clerks of election as well as Morrison County Treasurer Auditor to count the ballots cast and submit the results to the school board for canvas in the manner provided for other school district
063elections. If it is determined that additional election judges will be required, the school district's election administrator is hereby authorized to appoint such additional election judges pursuant to Minnesota Statutes section 204B.21 subdivision 2. >> I need a second. >> I will second. >> Any discussion? >> Okay. >> No. >> Dan? >> Yes. >> Doug? >> Yes. >> Julie? >> Yes. >> Sharon? >> Yes. >> Mark? >> Yes. >> Myself, yes. >> Thank you, Kelsey. Nice job. >> Man, people just need to have last names like Johnson and Anderson. >> [laughter] >> Where are all these people? >> All right, next 11.11. This is an action item. It's approval of the exact location of the counting center ballots. So, you have it in your packet there. Um so, I'm going to read this. This is a quick
064one. I'll read it for you. >> [laughter] >> Notice is hereby >> resolution. Do we have to? >> I guess we don't. >> Okay. >> So, I'm looking for a motion to approve the Oh, we have a motion by Dan. >> Second by Sharon. Any further discussion? All right, hearing no good discussion, all in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed, same sign. All right, motion carries. Next again in relation to the um election, the approval of notice for testing of the optical scan for the voting system. So, this is the system that reads the little circles that it makes. [clears throat] So, >> I like that maybe they think I am. >> [laughter] >> Wow. >> That's Are you really you? >> So moved. Have a motion by Dan. Do I hear
065a second? >> I'll second. >> A second by Kelsey. Any further discussion? Hearing none, all in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> Opposed, same sign. All right, motion carries. All right, that's it for new business. All other unfinished business Um we have approval of policies. So, looks like there is four of them. Uh accounting practice, extracurricular transportation, uniform grant policy regarding Federal Reserve resources, and chemical use and abuse. Um so, I would make a motion to approve those. >> Second. >> And I have a second by Dan. Any further discussion? All right. Hearing none, all in favor signify by saying aye. >> Aye. >> Opposed, same sign. All right, motion carries. Reports from board members. Mark? >> Um I guess just to kind of give an update. I've been working on that land
066north of the zoo. Um Doug gave me a copy of the deed. Ducks Unlimited didn't have any record of it. And the [snorts] county couldn't find any record of it. So, it's kind of like maybe I should just throw that away. >> [laughter] >> I sent it off to Ducks Unlimited to see if they'll review it and lift that easement. >> Okay. >> And so, now I'm waiting to hear back from them. >> Okay. >> I sent it off on Friday and haven't heard anything today, but I'm sure now he's going back through >> Mhm. >> and trying to find their records cuz he couldn't find anything before. >> Definitely. >> But it was recorded cuz it was a tax deed. >> Right. >> So, I don't know. It's just it's >> The national chapter,
067right? Because it was from Illinois if I remember seeing right or something like that. >> Right, but our local rep is from Alexandria. And they just finished a state convention, so that's how I got his name through our local uh uh guy for Ducks Unlimited. And then you're right, it went back to Michigan and then back to him. This But now that he's got the exact paperwork and the dates, they can check it out. And then he'll get back to me on what they'd like to do. I have a feeling either we'll get Mark to do some drone coverage of it or they'll send somebody over from Alexandria to look at the property. But since it's sitting in city limits, >> Yeah. >> it's just a resting area for the ducks and other wildlife. >>
068And it makes us It will make a significant difference in the value of that land. >> So, if I remember, Mark, didn't you say there was one buildable lot on that 40 acres? >> There was about an acre that's buildable, yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah, you know, we'll work to get to it. >> Okay. >> Cuz it's the southeast corner away from the road. >> Okay. All right. But I guess we just What we're trying to do is get the biggest bang for our buck on that property. That's all I have. >> Thank you. Sharon? >> Um couple things. The second annual prom dress for free prom dresses and for the guys um jackets and suits is held will be held this year at Helping Hands right at their their store, which is right across
069from the bakery. Um March 21st and April 4th from 10:00 to 2:00 each time. This is the second year they've they've done it. We've had Last time I think we had one student or one family came all the way from Grand Rapids and got clothing for it. So, it's free. We're still looking We've got over 200 dresses, but we're still looking for jewelry, dress shoes, um nail um polishes and stuff and the small clutch bags that girls like to carry for the prom that night. And the other thing for your calendar is the Morrison County area uh foundation is going to be having an annual egg hunt fundraiser on March 29th. They'll be at Linden Hills unless the weather doesn't cooperate. Then I think she told me the middle school that they would be moved
070to there. And that is for all ages from infant to fifth grade. And it's a $2 charge. That's part for their fundraiser. And that's from 1 to 3. That's it. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> Okay. >> Anything else? >> Um I did not have a chance to meet with Jana and Chris, but they gave me little updates today to share with the board. And I'm going to paraphrase Jana. It sounds like they had a really good um preschool registration day. It sounds like they're full and they have a waiting list for next year already. >> I should have updated you on that. Correct. >> right? >> And the kindergarten registration is the most we had over 70 students registered last Monday at registration. So that's a higher number by 25 than what we've seen
071the last few years. So excited about those numbers. >> Mhm. >> Okay. >> You stole my thunder a little bit. >> I'm sorry. [laughter] >> Um Mr. Dobis Mr. Dobis says that the I love to read month was a huge success at Lincoln. His students read over 215,000 minutes. Each grade level reached their goal and will be attending the movie theater lat- later this week. Um last Friday they had a um What did they call that? A uh a light >> assembly >> Yeah, they had an assembly, but it was like a light show. >> A glow light party. That's what they had. Yeah, so they got to put Duke guys in the faces and all kinds of fun things. Um I got some pictures. They were pretty funny. Uh it looks like the staff
072really participated well. Um Yeah, and then kindergarten come and see is April 23rd. Registrations are going to continue to trickle in between now and then. Last year they had around 90 families in attendance, so lots of really good things already starting for next year. >> Awesome. >> That's what I have. >> Yeah. >> Nothing to report. >> Only thing I have is um I know in Maddie and Megan John alluded to it, but the the basketball game last Thursday was It was I mean it was a a disappointing outcome, but that gym was absolutely electric. With both bands in there and the students, it was It was really fun. It was a great atmosphere and um it was really fun to see that, so um shoutout to everybody who helped there. I know Carol was
073there and a lot of staff were there to help with crowd control and stuff, so it was um it was a it was a fun night even with the result, so um otherwise that's all I have, so >> Can I just give a shoutout just because we don't often have guests at our board meetings? Like to give a shoutout to our five special education staff members. Uh two from the middle school, one from the high school, and then two of our administrators being here tonight. And without having to be specific, I just want to say thank you to them for the work that they've done to support students and staff this year. It's not just this year, every year, but uh especially this year, they've done just a fabulous job. >> I'll second. >> Okay,
074any other business to come before the board? >> Dan Hedden? >> Oh, no, he said no. >> Okay. >> All right, hearing none, I'd look for a motion to adjourn. >> So moved. >> I'll second. >> Second. >> All right, motion by Kelsey, second by Mark. All in favor? >> Aye. >> Opposed? All right, this meeting is adjourned. Thank you, everyone. >> Oh.