001Okay. Good evening everyone, and welcome. We're the Otana School Board. It is Tuesday, it's 26th of May, 5:30 p.m. I'm calling It's 5:31. Calling this meeting to order. Um let's start with 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. >> To start off, Andrew will give us a quick update on our attendance. >> Looks like we're all here. >> Excellent. And um before we approve the agenda, there's one amendment that I need to make. And if you would, please, we will add under action items, we'll add an item L after gifts to the district. We'll add item L, and this will be a letter of understanding regarding
002the READ Act. >> [snorts] >> So, with that amendment, I'll make the motion that we approve the agenda as presented with the amendment. >> Second. >> Motion in a second. Any further discussion? All in favor, with an eye. >> I. >> Any opposed? That motion carries. Turn things over to Dr. Champa for our mission moment. >> All right. So, our mission moment, this entire year, our theme has been to really celebrate and recognize our partnerships throughout the district that truly benefit our students on so many levels. Um but tonight, we get to recognize those that are truly the heartbeat of our school district, and are behind all of those partnerships happening. So, we wanted to take time to recognize our cabinet tonight. And so, we are going to recognize each of you, talk about what
003your role is a little bit, and then ask you to come up and maybe share highlight of the year or something. [laughter] Um so, I know your favorite moment. Here we go. Uh so, if we look up at our screen there, we have Chris Pica, who serves as our director of human services, and has worked tirelessly in this environment uh lately, when it's more difficult than ever to recruit, support, and retain outstanding educators and support staff. So, we thank Chris for all of her work. Next, we have Director Sullivan. Our Director of Teaching and Learning has championed high-quality instruction and meaningful learning opportunities that help every student each and every student reach their fullest potential. And as all of you know, this last year last 2 years has been a bit of a challenge with
004the demands of the READ Act and now looking at what do those interventions look like, but always looking at how do we best support our students. And next, we have uh Director Olson, who this may be close to being one of his last uh meetings, but certainly has been instrumental in the work with all of our facilities across the district um and infrastructure and security has been a um maybe a little bit more of a lift this past year, but we thank you for your efforts and all of your work behind that as well. Uh Director Stotts, you'll hear um from tonight as well, is our Director of Finance and Operations and has just demonstrated amazing stewardship of our district finances and is always not only looking at our finances, but also what is in
005the best interest of our students. So, we thank him for his work. And we also have Director McDermott Johnson, our Director of Community Ed, who just now received a survey and really looking at how do we best support our uh community and really how do we stretch beyond what we typically think of as preK-12 and meet the needs of our entire community at large. So, we thank um Director McDermott Johnson for her work. And finally, we have Director Mensink, who is our Director of Special Services and is rounding out almost her first year and has just been a passionate advocate for our students ensuring that every learner receives the support, care, and opportunities that they need to succeed. So, together, they model integrity, professionalism, and what we stand for here in Otana public schools. So,
006thank you for your service. One highlight [applause] >> [clears throat and laughter] [laughter] >> And if your hashtag Otana public schools is wearing off on your laptop like mine is, you have a brand new one. >> [clears throat] >> All right. >> So, I will say one of my goals was assisting the superintendent in disseminating information related to the operating levy back in November. I'm happy to announce that that goal is 100% but it was not successful. And the reason I bring that up is you know, despite the fact that yeah, we wished it would have passed and and life could have went on. It really gave me an opportunity to build a relationship with Tammy through that process and through the subsequent budget reductions. It also gave us the opportunity to look at the
007budget and really dig into the budget where sometimes when you come into a new district, it takes time to learn the nuances of of this particular district and how they do things and so forth, we were forced to jump in with both feet. And so from that standpoint, it It a real beneficial process even though the outcome isn't what we desired. Thank you for the past year. It's been really >> Thank you. >> [clears throat and laughter] >> I would say, and this is probably a repeat that highlight would have to be working in with And this year, you know, we had six that started in cohort one and all six graduated on May 9th, so that was It was really nice, you know, yeah, it was really I stayed for the long graduation. >>
008[laughter] >> And all six of them have positions, not necessarily in our district, but they all have um special education positions. And now we have two in cohort two and we'll have another two starting in cohort three and we've also expanded the types of um teacher licensures for apprenticeships, um not just in special ed. Um we're working right now with a steering committee on a triple license, EL, elementary, and special ed. So, the licensure will come in handy for, you know, a lot of individuals just because a lot of times what those you have gen ed and you teach have some EL and you have some special ed in your classroom, so it'll be a very good license to have. >> [cough and clears throat] >> To obtain three certifications is would be expensive, um
009but now they're free. That would be my And working with this team. >> Thanks, Chris. >> Um a highlight of my year has been to join this team. I have been um in the district since 2006. And so, to be part of leadership team is an honor. Working with all of these people. Same thing with the Rusty Apprentice Program. Special Services touches all the different departments. And so, I can speak to each one of these people and talk about the wonderful work that we do together. The Apprentice Program was a highlight. Also, working with the Teaching and Learning Department and working on the MTSS structures, the social emotional structures, and the school social workers and the counselors are a big highlight. And we're excited to continue that work next year and the year after with
010the program. So, those are two of the highlights that I have with the How about the radio show? That was a highlight, too. >> [laughter] >> It's fun talking on the radio, I found out. It was a little bit stressful the first time, but now I'm in the groove and we only get to do that two times a year, but so, it's been fun. Okay. >> [laughter] >> I have a lot to talk about today. >> So, one of our one of my goals this year and actually I made candy school. I didn't even actually mention But anyway, we worked very well together with our with our safety and security. Getting the I love you guys on board in association with our Alice training and things like that just to make sure that our kids
011and our and our staff are safe. Not only do are we working on the physical safety of of people, but we're also working on the safety of around the whole district. With with OSHA now coming in and and looking at schools, which they haven't really done much of in the past with, but it comes to students, they've always looked at the adult side of it. They're looking at things now in school districts on where kids are at, as well. So, we had to make sure that we are ready and that we worked with our consultant quite a bit with IA to make sure we have mock OSHA walk-throughs and if we saw things in there that were not up to snuff for OSHA may have flagged it for us to to fix. We won't get
012those things fixed fast. So, um being that I'm not coming back next year, I feel very happy that our our safety physical safety of the structures and the facilities are up to snuff and they're actually looking really good. Um all of our Yeah, and I know we have we have three we have three chemicals every chemical that's in a building we have to have everything that's up to code and updated. Those are all up to date as well. So, I feel really good about about not just the physical safety of of people, um but the physical safety of our buildings as well. So, um that was one thing I liked. And then obviously the other highlight um is the exit. This will be my last meeting I'm going to be board member, so after 33
013years, I'm very happy with the career that I've had with them. And I thank you guys for letting me do my job. So, thanks. >> Thank you. Well, thank you for the opportunity and the recognition. Very nice. Um I think that our community education is really about community legacy of inventing and reinventing itself. And I hope as we've watched Owatonna grow and develop over the years that we're seeing the the part of our district that reaches out to learners of all ages that we have been a good steward of the learning needs of our community. You know, we have the internal customers that we work with here both um administratively and >> [clears throat] >> that's our day-to-day folks in the classrooms um are really living examples of what it takes to be passionate about
014serving the learning needs of our community. And we've worked so hard to be part of the learning package that we offer Owatonna schools. That that brings great joy to our department. And I think one of the real joys this year has been as much as I >> [laughter] [clears throat] [cough] >> Actually I didn't think it was on. There we go. Um, I feel like I told Mark before the the meeting started I said, "You're not going to call me up front tonight." and he said, "No, no, not tonight." And here we are. And uh, so I I know you heard from me a couple of weeks ago when we were here for the meeting, but I will just say I think I'm the longest standing um, member of the the cabinet here as far
015as being in Owatonna. This is my 35th year in education, my 34th year in Owatonna. And I've been everywhere from started teaching at the junior high and then went to the high school and then became an assistant principal and then over to Wilson Elementary and then principal at the middle school. And stepping into this role was probably my biggest challenge uh, just because it was so different. Not with kids every day, not leading, you know, a big staff. And it and it took me a little bit to grow into this and I don't know in hindsight with everything that was coming on our plate if I would have said, "Yes, sign me up for that." But it's actually been really a really good process. The Read Act was great and we were heading into phase
016two next year. And I have just a fantastic team. I have great colleagues that I can go to for a variety of questions and and just my team with Wendy and Matt and Kelly and Kenneth, you know, who's just brilliant with everything. And if I need any data, I can just go there and and get it. So, I've really enjoyed it. I I think I bleed blue cuz Owatonna is, you know, like I and in a couple years uh we're going to retire and not live in this community. And that already at moments kind of strikes me. This is where we've spent so much time and raised our kids. And all three of them had such a great experience in the school system. So, I love what I do. I I like going to work
017every day. And um I look forward to what's coming the next couple of years before I'm officially done and join Bob in retirement. So, thank you. >> All right, thank you so much. We appreciate all that you do. >> Board members, any last comments, anything to share? >> It is somewhat awe-inspiring to see the amount of experience, the wealth of experience that was represented by the six people standing up here. And I think in a large part, a very strong reason why Owatonna becomes a destination district because of leadership like the six of you and what you provide. So, thank you very much. On behalf of the board, thank you. Uh we will move on to item five. Is there anything for public forum tonight? No cards for public forum. Okay. Item six, um Director
018Staats is here and he will make his way up. I'll turn things back over to Dr. for a a quick overview on what we'll talk about with this regard to the amended budget. >> Yes, so we have both Sarah and Mark presenting tonight on our amended budget. And if you just remember a little bit, this is coming to us a little bit late because of the timing of the operating referendum and then the work to get all of the contracts negotiated and in place so that this was not a constant on your agenda and just always changing as all of those contracts were settled individually. So, with that >> All right. So, my role here is I'm going to introduce Sarah and many of you remember Sarah back when she was here previously. Um her
019she goes now by Sarah Brandt. She was married last year. So, um Sarah is back, had a really good meeting with the finance committee on Friday, and I'm going to let her present um the amended budget for this year. So, you'll be seeing the amended budget for the current year, 25-26 tonight, and then next month, we'll have the budget for the 26-27 school year um that we'll present to the board, and we've got another finance committee meeting on the books, and we should be set. But, I'm going to turn it over to Sarah. She's done a ton of work on this, and um I'm really pleased to have her back in the district. >> Yeah. >> And I'm happy to be back. >> Yeah. >> Um so, as Mark mentioned, we did meet with the
020finance committee last Friday, and we went through the full budget book in detail. So, tonight I'm just going to have you focus on page five, which is the summary of all of the funds that we're presenting. Um and we'll focus mainly on the general fund, cuz that's the primary source of the district's fund being in operations. Um for the general fund amended budget, we're we're presenting revenues of 84.2 million dollars. This does include a pretty sizable increase in special education state aid funding of approximately 3 million dollars. Additionally, there's some um increase in our general education aid, primarily in the compensatory revenue category. Um in the preliminary budget, um the compensatory revenue was included before the state legislature set that hold harmless amount. So, we're um including an increase in revenue for that change as
021well. Um expenditures for the overall general fund are budgeted at $85.7 million. This does include the full, um, contract settlement package that Tamera referenced. All contracts have been settled as of May 11th. Um, so all of those changes are incorporated in this budget. Um, there was a placeholder in the preliminary budget and we landed fairly close to that overall, um, expenditure contract settlement. Um, but we've also included a few other changes just to reflect some, um, um, actual LTFM projects and some additional increases in expenses. Overall, that brings us to a net decrease in our general fund balance of about $1.5 million to end the year at a projected $13.6 million fund balance. Um, we often focus on the unassigned fund balance as a as a percent of expenses and there we're landing at 11.37%.
022Um, this is a slight increase from where we had the preliminary budget at 9.83% and pretty close to what Mark talked about with the school board in his November projection. Overall, very healthy. Um, when we look at the food service fund and the community service fund, those are two, um, programming funds that are meant to be self-sustaining. So, we set, um, rates to sustain the expenses that those funds incur. Um, although they have some deficit spends, they're still overall at the end of the year are projected to have a healthy fund balance. Um, our building construction fund incorporates, uh, the high school and district office remodel as well as a few other projects. Um, here we have a few adjustments just to recognize interest revenue we've seen to date and limit our expenses to the
023expenses we actually incurred on those projects. Our debt service fund is used to make payments on the bonds that the district has issued. There's no significant changes there. Um >> [clears throat] >> our trust fund is set up for our museum programming and you can see it's a very small budget. So not a lot to talk about there. Um health insurance internal service fund. Um here we do have a decrease anticipated in our fund balance and this will play into the health insurance premium rate increases we're presenting for next year. But still overall a positive fund balance and able to support itself. Um and then likewise our dental internal service fund is for the district's self-insured dental insurance. Um and there we're projecting about a break-even fund balance. Wait. So that is the overall um
024amended budget summary. I'm happy to answer any questions or go into more detail if anything um is on your mind. >> Welcome back, Sarah. >> Thank you. I'm very happy to be back. Yeah, it's good to see you. >> I was feeling terrible that I missed it and now you have a new last name, so that's why I missed it. Now I'm not feeling as bad. So. >> Glad you're here. >> Board members, any questions? Good summary. One thing I would I would mention we're right on track with fund balance and I know the board members on finance committee will give a report later this evening, but we're also right on track with enrollments at this point and I think that's really important as we move forward into the next year, so. Thank you very
025much. >> Good. Thank you. Uh item seven tonight would be just the general information and specifically it would be with regard to the enrollment report. Do board members have any questions for Dr. Champo with regard to the enrollment report that was part of your packet? Okay, hearing none. We will move on. Item eight tonight, no action required by us, board forum. Uh Jolene, if you don't mind, we'll start over on your side. >> Nothing. Quiet on this end. >> [snorts] >> Um yeah, just the opportunity the pops concert was very entertaining and awesome to see. Inspiring again. Um I don't know if you want us to comment >> Yeah, I was just going to say and if you wouldn't mind um if there's committee reports you want to bring that up at >> Yeah, I
026think I'll just comment and I'll let Ron and and others um chime in. I was remote so they were a little more hands-on and um but yeah, we had a good meeting. Um went through that um report in in a fair amount of detail. I think we got all of our questions answered. Um they do a great job and I heard Sarah's voice so I was glad I knew that voice. I was glad to see she was on the call. So, yeah, more to come. Bye. I'll check. >> Um yeah, I would just agree on the pops concert. I thought it was good. And also the Memorial Day program, the concert band performed and the marching band was in the parade. And afterwards, even I talked to Mr. Ginther and he he just said today
027was one of those days where it just everything and I mean maybe Lowell you could say to it seemed like you guys sounded really good. And um so it was just good to see the school district contributing to that, you know, uh event and just the patriotism in the community as well. So, and then yeah, I would agree with the finance committee yeah, we had a very good meeting and we were able to kind of go through everything and yeah, seems like we're in a good place. >> I don't have anything. >> I have nothing for uh board forum tonight after Andrew. >> Yeah, I also was at the pops concert. It was fantastic and I went to the music awards program prior to that which was really great to see all the students recognized
028and both for their contributions here in town and also even at the state choir level so that was very cool. Um and then tomorrow I'm headed to BizTown to help with the middle school the sixth grade trip for BizTown. So, that'll be good. >> Maybe I'll just add for the finance committee meeting, we had talked about the legislative change or decision and the upcoming deficit of almost 700,000 yes 700,000 coming in the future. Is that for the next school year? >> It is. >> Yes. So we did touch on that also to that will have to prepare for that. So that was it. >> We had the last OHS advisory meeting where students discussed the vaping epidemic in our schools, potential solutions to that, some of the causes that um allow students to you know
029get into that addiction. We discussed cell phones, Chromebooks, the use of Chromebooks, how they're both a you know um how they both help and hurt education among our students and then we also discussed a large portion of our discussion was about school engagement, how we can get school spirit up, how we can allow all of our students to feel supported either at sporting events, extracurricular activities. It was a very very productive discussion. There we also presented some solutions and how students can stay in touch throughout the school year so that if they do come across an issue, they can let Lowell and Greta know right away so that it does not fall through the cracks. It was very productive meeting. Lowell and I were also able to attend the agricultural industrial / military signing day.
030We had a We had a close friend of ours sign to the Navy, Dawson Levy. That was amazing just being able to support him, being able to support all of our students regardless of the career path they go into. Also big shout out to Mr. Coleman and Miss Miss Cook for putting that together. But yeah, that's all I had. This is my last meeting. I just wanted to share some thank yous. Thank you Mr. Sebring. Thank you all board members for giving me an incredible 2 years, for allowing me to grow, pushing me, and also just giving me a formative experience that will guide the rest of my life journey. I will not forget my time on the school board. This has been an incredible journey and I'm really optimistic as to what Lola and
031Grace can achieve in their tenure as well as the future of this role. >> Um first I want to say thank you Ayu. I know that we have a relationship that is outside of just the school board. We've known each other for a while and I'm sure we will be good friends for a long time. But I just want to thank you for kind of showing me the ropes, even opened me up to this position. This was like you said a great opportunity and I think there are lots of events and ideas that you have put into the works. And I hope that we will be able to accomplish some of those. Um like Ayu said, we did have our last advisory meeting of the year. So wrapping that up, I think we had a
032very productive year of advisory meetings and I think especially towards the end of the year you could really see the kids start to get um greater engagement with us and really open up to us. But besides that, as you guys can imagine, the schools are ready for school to be over. They're ready for summer. But also if you didn't see, Owatonna has been running the Big Nine recently. I think we had four Big Nine championships last week. Um boys and girls lacrosse, baseball, and girls golf all won within a span of like five days, so Ayoub Otieno is doing well. >> [laughter] >> One gentleman, thank you. Um Ayoub, before we move too terribly further along, I would open up the the panel the board to offer any um passing or or closing thoughts comments
033with regards to the time that you've spent with us. >> Well, Ayoub, I really enjoyed getting to know you these last years. Um I know I don't know if you still aspire to a political or a career in the law, but I'm particularly interested in that, so um just know we'll be waiting and watching and um very best wishes to you. >> I would maybe just add to kind of like what Lowell said, just appreciate the I would say the professionalism or the maybe the standard that you bring or I've brought to the position and you know, and I think you're setting the bar high for people coming behind you, so. >> Yes, so along similar lines, we've had students school board reps now for a number of years, and I'm always convinced that the
034rep that is our senior is the most um productive person I've ever met. And uh you you set the bar once again pretty high, so Lowell, you're going to have to work. >> [laughter] >> Well, and as mentioned before, I just appreciate um watching you lead and am very excited to watch your journey as you move forward as well. >> Ayoub, the level of your questions from week to week has really made me think more critically about what we're doing and what we should be thinking about and taking action on, and I greatly appreciate your questions. >> I've always been impressed when you um by your presentation, the things that you say, the questions you ask, the way you present yourself. So, well done. >> Um I I need you to know we are a
035better board because of you and we are a better community because of you. So, good luck. It's going to be fun to see where you land. >> Mhm. >> Yeah, Aaliyah, you are just a you're a you're mature beyond your years. You are patient. You're a critical thinker. Um, very often in life people are waiting for a person to stop talking so they can begin to interject what they have to say. And you're waiting for them to talk and finish speaking because you want to be able to process what they've said. And to give a a careful and deliberate response to it. And I think that that's just a a spectacular attribute that you'll take with you the rest of your life. We wish you the very best. >> Thank you very much. Appreciate it.
036>> And you can stay the rest of the meeting. >> [laughter] >> Not planning on it. >> Okay, good. Um, so that covers board forum. We did take care of committee reports. Um, anybody have any comments or questions with regard to the work session report? So, it was presented in your packet. No. Uh, I'll move on to item B, which would be the administrative report. I'll turn things over to Dr. Champa. >> Yes, so I know that you've had time to read the admin report, but I just wanted to point out Director Hedlund had just mentioned about the compensatory. So, we had made comments along the way as we were doing budget adjustments. As we feel good for the upcoming um, couple of years as long as the legislation doesn't do anything to change that.
037And unfortunately, compensatory for us was adjusted um, about $700,000. And just to give a little context to that, that is because of what we used to call free and reduced um, meals applications. And so, that dollar amount came in due to applications and also direct certifications for Medicaid, that type of thing. And um, our state is going through a process since we no longer have those applications and we had expected or maybe hoped for a hold harmless that we received the same level of funding as we had last year and that wasn't the case. We have 40% of it. So, we now are moving forward in a very deliberate way to address some dollars [clears throat] there as well. But I also want to mention you said that everyone's ready to be done with the
038year, but we have so much left to do. If you look at [laughter] the calendars and the schedules and the things that you were mentioning being a part of between all the athletic activities, the final concerts, the it's a busy time. So, if anyone's ever looking for something to do, our students can provide a level of entertainment and performances unparalleled to any other. So, >> [snorts] >> finish strong. >> Anything with regard to the cadence of the calendar? >> just mentioning at your upcoming work session, you're looking at your own board evaluation, specifically the area of vision. And as you think about how do you ensure that the strategic plan is alive and well, this is what that is intended to do. So, each of our, even hearing that it's maybe not the favorite activity,
039each cabinet member sets those smart goals and then reflects on a monthly basis and so you see collectively where we are on those four strategic directions. >> Excellent. Board members, any questions for Dr. Champa? Okay, hearing none. We will move on. Item tonight, item nine tonight would be the consent agenda. We will need board action. We're going to approve the minutes from April 27th and May 11th disbursement and personnel reports. Does anybody have anything or any reason to pull anything out? >> I would just like to make a quick comment just in light of the the notes and messages that we received this week regarding the personnel report. And um and we discuss briefly we discuss briefly and just understanding that we approve these reports quite often. Um this was the first time in my
040four three and a half years on the board that we received comments and concerns. Um but feeling um very comfortable confident where um our superintendent has dealt with the situation up to this point and felt a little chaotic at first, but um thank you for um working through that and um I just wanted to acknowledge um that this happened in the last week. So, thank you. >> Thanks. >> Um with that, we will entertain a motion to approve. >> I move that the board approve the consent agenda as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any further discussion with regard to this? Okay, hearing none. Andrea, if you would, please. >> Sure. Jolene? >> Aye. >> Laurie? >> Aye. >> Ron? >> Aye. >> Tim? >> Aye. >> Mark?
041>> Aye. >> Elizabeth? >> Aye. >> And I'm an aye. Seven pass. >> Motion carries. Very good. Thank you. >> [clears throat] >> Item 10 tonight would be a couple of items that do require board action. First of which is A, the 2025-2026 amended budget. We just heard comprehensive summary of that. Finance Committee has been able to dig into this as well. Um We'll entertain a motion to approve. >> I move that the board approve the 2025-2026 amended budget as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Are there any discussions or any other further questions as it relates to this? Okay, hearing none. All in favor with an aye. >> Aye. >> Any opposed? The motion carries. Item B tonight, I'm going to turn this over to Dr. Champa. This is
042called resolution to decommit funds. And I know that Dr. Champa and Director Stotts both be able to walk us >> go for it. >> Okay, so if you'll recall as a result of the failed referendum, we went through the budget reduction process and >> [clears throat] >> one of the items on the budget reductions is to move committed funds. So, the board had committed through action numerous years ago almost $300,000 towards the career pathways program. What we're proposing in this resolution is we eliminate that those committed funds. We're still going to continue with the career pathways program. We're just going to fund it out of the normal general fund or the unassigned fund balance. So, really no change in programming or anything like that. I'd like to call this a bookkeeping resolution more than anything.
043>> Board members, any questions? >> Well, we had a good discussion at our finance committee meeting, too, of just about how Yeah, this these funds were set aside to get the program started, to get it going. And now that it's functioning and doing what we intended, now it's best best you know, we're still going to continue to do that. We're just going to use these move these funds >> Yeah. >> into the general fund. >> Good. Anybody else? Uh given that this is a finance issue, would one of the members of the finance committee please introduce the motion? >> I move that the board approve the resolution to decommit funds as presented. >> Second. >> We do have a motion and a second. Again, any further discussion? Okay, hearing none. Andrew, if you would, please.
044>> Sure. Jolene? >> Aye. >> Lori? >> Aye. >> Ron? >> Aye. >> Tim? >> Aye. >> Mark? >> Aye. >> And Elizabeth? And I am an aye. >> Very good. Motion carries. Uh item C tonight would be uh that we do in fact have a new student school board representative. I'll turn things over to Dr. Chiempa. >> All right. So, we have been uh talking about the success of our senior representative and it's also the time of the year where we get to talk to those who are interested in moving into this role and we could not have been more impressed with the candidates that came forward. And so, I'd like to call up Greta Veldman and Greta just you can say it so well. You talked about what you would strive for for
045our student body and what you hope for and if you can just share that with the board and know they'd love to hear that. >> Sure. Um hi everyone, I'm Greta Veldman. I am so excited to be here and for this upcoming year. Um one thing that I talked about and I've kind of had the idea of as I'm moving into this new role is the idea of equity and um inclusion within our schools. Um and one thing I talked about during the interview and just have kind of had in the back of my mind is just finding ways to be able to make sure that um everyone in the community, specifically in our schools and all the students, um feel comfortable where they are with the people they're around. Um and just feel like
046they're in the right place and don't have any discomfort where they are when they're at school and um in their activities and stuff. And so, I just believe that that's an important thing that I'm hoping that we can find a way to incorporate even more than what is right now. So, yeah. But, thank you all. I'm so excited. >> [laughter] >> Good. Board members, any questions? >> Ms. Veldman, this is not the first time you have presented or discussed things with the board. >> [laughter] >> It was a short how many years ago did you and two of your classmates tell the adults in the room to get rid of cell phones? >> That must It was three or four years ago, I believe. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. >> [laughter] >> Not my first time being
047here. >> No, it's not. Not your first rodeo. Very excited to have you. Glad you're here. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> [laughter] >> Anybody else? >> Greta Welcome. >> Thank you. >> Well, I'm I'm going to say one more thing. Um, >> [laughter] >> as we were looking for candidates for this new position, I sent out an email to um, potential sophomores who would fit this position. And when looking at people who um, I should send this to, I talked to numerous teachers, students, um, my own knowledge. And I just wanted to let you know that your name came up. Probably more than anyone else's. So, I'm sure you're fit for the role and your peers and your teachers think so as well. >> Thank you so much. >> That was perfect. And yes,
048we're just so excited to have you join. We're very sad, obviously, to lose Aya, but um, excited to have you join. And also a shout out and thank you to your family for the their support [laughter] and allowing you to do this work as well. >> Well, thank you so much. >> Welcome. Greta, thanks. >> Thank you. >> [applause] >> Would one of you be kind enough to introduce this motion for us? >> I move that Greta Veldman be appointed as a student school board representative. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. All in favor with an eye. >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. Item D would be the 2025-2026 school calendar. I'll ask Dr. Champa to give us the quick overview. >> So, this is your school calendar, only it
049is what it currently looks like after we have addressed the number of days. So, we had two non-school days and we had two late starts. And so, I that is not up in front of you, but that is what is attached here. >> And in a way it was a part of the board packet as well. >> Yes. Any questions? >> Yeah, any questions? >> All right. >> Board members, anybody have queued up? Could you introduce that motion? >> I move that the board approve the final 2025-2026 school calendar as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. All in favor with an I? >> I. [clears throat] >> Any opposed? That motion carries. Item E tonight would be policy revisions. Folks, there were two in particular and one of which was
050a complete rewrite. One of which was brand new. So, before we dig into it, policy committee >> [snorts] >> it's very interesting and I'm wondering if you can just give us a quick bird's-eye view of the first one which would be equity and um talk about how you landed with the this new and almost completely rewritten policy. >> Well, I think just my my impressions of the discussion we we felt that what we had equity perspective the policy was narrow and it didn't reflect necessarily everything that the district especially as part of our um strategic goals um we wanted it to reflect that better. So, we rather than trying to just amend what existed we went and uh rewrote it completely and I think it's I think we all agreed as we walked out from
051that discussion that it was uh a much better and more inclusive kind of holistic version of an equity policy. So, I think we were all very happy with it when we were done. >> I think the other comment is just that um you know, the directors and so on who are part of that committee also helped us by finding other examples of other districts and sort of how they're approaching this topic and that gave us a good kind of template and starting point. So, we weren't completely writing it you know, beginning to end but nonetheless kind of staying in norms and >> Thank you. And then the second one has to do with AI. Can you talk a little bit about that? >> Yep. Um >> [snorts] >> it's just ever-changing, right? We don't We
052make decisions today and then there's going to be new information tomorrow. And so, Mike Halverson came in and did a really nice job of talking about this is how it's used right now within our schools as a tool. Um, this is how these are the different programs that are approved by the school to use as help with education, not a replacement for teaching and education. And so, it was really it was very informative and very very interesting and I anticipate this is a policy that we will have to review sooner rather than later and more often than other ones just because it changes every moment. >> Thanks. Um, let's do this then. Um, members of the policy committee, would one of you please introduce the motion for us? >> I move that the board approve
053policy 110 and 625 as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Any further discussion? Okay, hearing none. Uh, Andrew, if you would No, no, no, we don't need to do that. Uh, all in favor with an eye. Eye. Any opposed? Motion carries. Item F tonight would be our participation in the Minnesota State High School League membership. Dr. Chappa, quick overview if you would. >> Yes, this is your annual >> [laughter] >> review of the Minnesota State High School League and hearing how we have been doing as Owatonna schools in the Big Nine. [snorts] This allows us to continue to participate at that level and so, this is the official approval by the board to continue that. >> Uh, yeah, here we go. Would one of you please introduce this motion? >>
054I move that the board approve the 2026-2027 resolution for membership in the Minnesota State High School League. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Any further discussion? >> I will just comment that, um, being that I did vote no on this last year, just strictly on the principle, and not that I have any reason to not want our children to participate in any of these because I really do, but just on the principle of um, last year as it was discussed with the transgender athletes participating in the sport of the gender of their choice. Um, and so being that nothing has changed federally, state laws, there's definitely a conflict there. The muddy the waters are still very muddy with regard to that. So I'm just not going to change my vote at
055this point this year. Um, basically for the same reasons as last year. >> Fair enough. Any other comments or discussion? >> I I did notice one thing in there too that it they're going to change in 2027-2028 how online students participate in sports. So I didn't know if that would affect our online program or not. It's a comment that I noted that was a a new recognition. >> there's a like a task force right now reviewing and having those conversations. >> Thanks. Okay, with that Andrea, if you would please. >> Sure. Jolene. >> Aye. >> Lori. >> Aye. >> Ron. >> Aye. >> Tim. >> Aye. >> Mark. >> Aye. >> Elizabeth. >> Nay. >> And I am an aye. >> Motion carries. Very good. Thank you. Item G tonight would be identified official with
056authority to authorize user access to MDE secure websites. Dr. Champa. >> All right. So annually the board identifies an official with authority, which is the acronym of Iowa. And what that allows, if you approve the superintendent to do that work, it allows me to approve, whether it's Director Sullivan or Director McDermott Johnson, uh, so that they can go in and and and do the reports and necessary paperwork. And so it's one person um, providing those permissions that you provide for me to do. So that's what that is. >> we've always had it be the superintendent. Yes. Good. Uh, would one of you please introduce this motion for us? >> I move that the board authorize Superintendent Tamra Champa to act as the identified official with authority for Owatonna Public School District 761. >> Second. We
057have a motion and a second. Is there any further discussion? Okay, hearing none. All in favor with an eye. Eye. Any opposed? That motion carries. Item 8H tonight would be insurance renewal. >> So you have you heard earlier about our self-insured plan, but tonight we are asking for approval of an increase of 9%. And so that attachment that you have in the packet looks at our self-insurance for medical, which is that 9%, and dental coverage. Um And then there's no increase to the rates of the dental, life insurance, or long-term disability through Messena National Life. Questions? >> Maybe maybe just one or two. Um can you I know historically we've been fairly small in our increases, and I've lost track over the years. Can you tell us how this compares historically where we've been, and
058then also with our maybe our peer group or other self-insured programs and increases that they're seeing? I don't know if we had a tough year or a typical year. >> They all seem tough lately, but I have experienced a rate increase of 50%. [clears throat] So >> Hm. >> Director Satz. >> So um I've been working with self-insured programs for oh I don't know, 20-plus years, probably 25 years. And they do go in cycles. You know, you'll have two or three difficult years, you'll have two or three really good years. We're self-insured, so you know, in a good year when claims come in low and they're lower than premiums, if you're in a fully insured plan, it goes straight to the insurance company. You realize none of that savings. If you have a bad year
059where claims exceed premiums, that's where the insurance companies take their risk. So, um we have had two um I would call them difficult years, uh last year and this year, um where claims have exceeded premiums. So, we showed you in the amended budget we expect the fund balance in that self-insured fund to drop a little bit. Um I'm hoping, you know, reinsurance rates, um which protect us because if there's claims over a certain amount, then reinsurance kicks in. Uh those are going up, but they go up pretty steady. Um the thing about it is we've been able to avoid double-digit increases. Um the increase last year was 9%. This year was 9%. Um we're hoping it kind of flattens out now that we move into that cycle of having a couple positive years. So. >>
060Remind me, I think we have a consultant, don't we, that helps us >> Yeah. >> kind of actuarially sort out where do we need to land? >> Aaron >> Asper, if you are familiar with Aaron, is is our major consultant. Yep. >> And the number that we are um looking at tonight relative to what you had sketched out for the upcoming budget fits >> pretty much right on. >> Okay. >> Yep. >> And I think just finally, overall, I mean, I remember this decision years ago, maybe 10 or more. It's still, I think, a good decision. >> I think it's performing well. You know, you're going to hear a lot about a statewide insurance um proposal that's going to probably be on the legislative docket next year. Sounds good in theory, um spread the risk,
061but there are certain provisions of that proposal that would have a negative negative impact on school district finances. So, I think we have to be real careful with that one. >> Good. Any further questions? Uh, you know, do you have this one queued up? >> I move that the board accept the self-insured health insurance renewal with Blue Cross Blue Shield as presented. >> Second. >> We have a motion and a second. Any further discussion? Okay, hearing none. All in favor with an aye. >> Aye. >> Any opposed? The motion carries. >> [clears throat] >> Item I tonight would be an extended trip request to Costa Rica and Panama, Dr. Champa. >> Yes, and this is for uh 2027 and summer of '27 for our world languages and it fits all the parameters and requirements for
062an extended trip. Any questions? >> Do we just have more trips, extended trips now, cuz it seems like we've had quite a few requests there. Just >> Well, I think they come in like a couple are 2 years out and they're really trying to allow for some of that fundraising, so it feels like there's maybe more in a given year than there are. >> Very good. Elizabeth, by chance, do you have this one queued up? >> I move that the board approve the trip request to Costa Rica and Panama as presented. >> Second. >> Have a motion and a second. Again, any further discussion? All in favor with an aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion carries. Item J tonight would be a resolution establishing dates for filing affidavits affidavits of candidacy. This Um, I'll ask Dr.
063Champa to give the the bird's-eye view of this, but this is important because the filing dates this year are earlier than historically. >> But, they were in August. >> Got moved up. >> They typically have been. Now, I don't know if you have some context to the change in the time, Sarah. >> I I don't know why it was earlier, but yeah, it is earlier cuz it it used to go August. >> So, a little concerned. The filing dates are July 14th through the 28th, and I don't need to remind you that we have four seats that are up in November. >> Is it Is it July 14th or June 14th? >> July. Did I say June? >> I don't know. I thought I thought it was longer. So, it's only 2 weeks? >> Yes.
064>> June 14th to June 28th. Okay. All right. Or July, sorry. July 14th to July 28th. >> Yes. >> All right. >> Yes. >> Yep. I would say that, um, historically, we have always had very, very good coverage from both the Owatonna People's Press and the Steele County Times, and really would request some help from our partners in the media to help the community understand this change and the earlier filing dates. We wouldn't want someone to be caught off guard with that. >> [snorts] >> In any case, uh, would one of you be kind enough to introduce this motion? >> I move that the board approve the resolution establishing dates for filing affidavits of candidacy as presented. >> Second. >> Motion and a second. Any further discussion? Okay, hearing none. Andrea, if you would, please.
065>> Sure. Jolene? >> Aye. >> Lori? [snorts] >> Aye. >> Ron? >> Aye. >> Tim? >> Aye. >> Mark? >> Aye. >> Elizabeth? >> Aye. >> And I am an aye. >> Motion carries. Thank you. Our next item would be gifts to the district. Dr. Champa, anything there? >> So, you have a a lengthy resolution of a number of gifts that have been provided, and I just continue to be so appreciative of the number of gifts that come in each and every month. So, a huge thank you to all of those donors. >> A lot of dirt for the middle school in there. >> Yes, there is a lot of Yes, there is a lot of gardening going on. >> I would just add, too, I had I know somebody that received a thank you
066email from you. Um, they followed up with me and just said they were appreciative of how professional and, you know, you know, just, you know, just happy that they got a personal communication from the superintendent. So. >> Um. We don't ever want to assume these gifts are coming our way or and just really it's a small effort of appreciation. >> Um, board members would one of you please introduce this motion? >> I move that the board approve the resolution for acceptance of gifts as presented. >> I. >> Second. >> [laughter] >> You're really You're really eager to approve this one. >> [laughter] >> We do have a motion and a second. Uh, any further discussion? Andrew, if you would please. >> Sure. Jolene. I. >> Lori. >> I. >> Ron. >> I. >> Tim. >>
067I. >> Mark. >> I. >> Elizabeth. >> And I'm an I also. >> Motion carries. Lastly, item L tonight would be a letter of understanding and this has to do with the READ Act. All of you have received a component to that in your email. Um, I'm going to turn this over to Dr. Chapple for a quick explanation. >> So, as we've been talking about the READ Act, um, moving forward, it's always a challenge to ensure that we have the timing set aside and that it is recognized in the, um, agreements and so this is addressing that. So, any further questions? >> It largely is addressing the compensation structure of how >> Correct. >> all of the staff is compensated for that training. >> Does it include compensation for the paras? >> This one does
068not. >> This one is actually just for a couple of people. Um, we had made an agreement with the OEA that in their first year of employment, we didn't think they should have to be a first year teacher and both of the READ Act on their own. So, we had an agreement with the the union and so this is just a couple people and then we have one person who's switching roles and we really want her to go through the core training which is what our elementary teachers did. Um, our paras we did all during during, um, given PD time and so we didn't any of that. So, this is These two will be doing two or three will be doing it kind of on their own with some live sessions along the way. Um
069so, it was just an LOU to make sure that we are those situations. >> Any further questions with regard to this? Um as much as I despise um uh changes to the agenda, um Chris Pico was very kind in taking a phone call from me today and I did have a chance >> Taking a phone call. >> [laughter] >> Understood. Um and I did have a conversation with both Gail Trotts and Jeff Williams, both with the OEA. Uh and I just wanted to hear everybody say, "Yep, we're good with this." And everyone said the same thing. So, with that, um would one of you happen to have this one up and ready to go? >> I can pick it up. >> Oh. >> Right. Um I can pick it up. I'll I'll >> I've got
070it. >> Yeah, it's not coming up. >> I've got it. >> I can >> I just moved that the board accept the um ISD 761 and Owatonna Education Association letter of understanding regarding the READ Act. >> Thank you. >> Second. >> Good job. >> We have a motion and a second. Is there any further discussion? All in favor, with an eye. >> I. >> Any opposed? The motion [snorts] carries. Folks, this was a good meeting. I will move that we adjourn. >> Second. >> All in favor, with an eye. >> I. >> Any opposed? Motion carries. It's a good Thanks, meeting. Thanks, folks. Good meeting.