001Welcome to tonight's February meeting. We will start with pledges to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands with liberty and justice for all. All right. We'll start with approval of the agenda. >> Second properly moved and seconded. All in favor signifi signify by saying I. >> All oppose. Same sign. Motion passes. Moving on to our public forum. >> Roger Elders. So just as a reminder before you start here, Roger, uh just want to read quick. So public forum allows for citizens of the school district to address the school board on an identified agenda item. Uh board policy allows for three minute time limit time limit for speakers who are recognized by the board chair. If groups are present, the school board reserves the right to designate one
002speaker from that group. personal attacks by anyone addressing the school board are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Uh PAS school board policy 206. Go ahead. I'm talking on things I've seen in the paper which might have been from a previous board meeting. So I don't know if this carries over or not that was the evaluation of the superintendent. Okay. >> Yeah. I got a few areas. Lots of communication skills. Um, and gender differences the board members and uh and women outside of the authority of signing of contracts and broking people that were they were particularly authorized to sign for. Let's let's make sure we keep it specific to pipe stone smokers to speak. >> Okay. As far as communication skills, I went to four colleges and universities and three I graduated from already top
003number one in the Midwest in their category. And so I've seen a lot of good education. Um some of you here when Pipstone was rated number one in the state you see good education too that probably includes a bunch of board members but um all colleges and universities require communication skills. If you learn a whole lot of knowledge but you can't communicate it, your education isn't worth as much because you can't do as much good with it. Everybody's got to have a speech class and everybody have writing class and most of them require 10 page or more writing assignments in the major that you prove you can communicate. So in a whole bunch of the complaints is about lack of communication. You also get things Albert is probably the best known psychologist the country ever
004had. you chair position at Stanford which is one of the top five and a chair position means you're in the top 1% of their faculty and in this book social learning theory he says the kids learn more from examples than from rules and principles if you teach a kid to be good and you're not yourself kid might say they are but they won't be because they're following your example Well, if you want to teach communication skills, you kind of got to do it yourself. Um, both as teachers and then administration administrators now. So, um, when you use different methods of dealing with men board members and women board members, the women were the ones that didn't get the information at times. And I've met people running nonprofits who even brag about how they >> I'm
005just going to let you know we're we're at a 3m minute deadline here. >> Yeah. >> But I'll let you wrap up here in 30 seconds if you could. >> Is that fair enough? >> Okay. One minute one and then another. And some people try to promote some board members and demote others. do not like some now. And those type typically will get a secret message to the ones they like so that those think well we're buddies and work together. Well, um could treat one group different than the other and it just happened to be based by gender. I mean there may have been other reasons why I treated some different than the others. I don't know. >> And that's our time. Roger. >> Yeah. I appreciate your your comments. Thank you. >> Okay, moving
006on to presentations. Tonight we have our esports team here, Coach Neil Rans. >> Is this microphone on? It is. All right. Good evening, members of the school board. This year marked the very first season of Pipstone area schools esports and in just one season our students made history. We had 17 students uh represent Pipstone competing against more than 120 schools across Minnesota. And they didn't just compete, they excelled. Three of our students, Bradley Emory III, Ethan Davis, and Chevy Mitchell qualified for the state tournament in our inaugural year. That put Pipes Area Schools on the map. But what makes me most proud isn't just the results. It's the students themselves. They worked hard in the classroom to stay eligible. They showed up. They supported each other. They volunteered to work in sessions. Their personal growth
007this year due to the esports program has been fantastic. For some students, this was the first time they felt like they truly belonged to a school team. Esports is growing rapidly and Pipstone is already ahead. There is a very high chance that esports will be an MSHSL sanctioned activity next year. Because this program isn't just about playing games. It's about giving students a place to belong, a reason to succeed, and another way to be proud to be a pipstone arrow. Now, I'm going to have each team member come up that's here. I think we have eight students here, and they're going to say their name, their grade, and then what game they compete in. Hello, I am Chris Pter. I'm in ninth grade and I play Minecraft and Fortnite. >> Uh I'm Anthony Freeman. Uh
008I'm in ninth grade and I play >> what you guys >> I'm in 11th grade and I play chess and I qualified for state in that role. Hello, I am Avery Gutierrez. I played B and next year I hope to continue to play B and Marvel Rivals. >> I'm Wesley Hawk. I'm in 10th grade and I play Fortnite. Uh >> I'm Michael Weats. I'm in 9th grade and I play uh Mario Kart and I also play Valent. I'm Chevy Mitchell. I'm in 10th grade and I'm in Fortnite. I'm state qualifier. >> I'm Bradley Emory the third. I play Fortnite and I'm qualified in both for stud. >> And then I forgot to mention our assistant coach is Carl Sweetie. Amazing help this year. He's actually the one that's going to drive us to state and
009whatnot. So, very helpful. >> Where do you go to state? Is it in the cities then? >> It's in St. It's at St. Cloud State University. >> Oh, St. Cloud. >> Yep. It's actually on the college campus. And that's March uh 13th and 14th, but we we'll be leaving March 12th, Thursday at around 11:00 in the morning. Um I think we are going to do a send off through the school. Awesome. >> So, sure. Um, and then finally, I just have we have a video of what state was like last year since you guys probably aren't familiar with esports, but you'll notice towards the end of the video, there's actually colleges that are signing students for their esports teams. So, look at this. Take a look around. This is the absolute biggest crowd we've ever
010had history. You guys are paving the way for the best players in the state. Give a big round of applause for all the players and all the parents who came supporting today. All right, with that, let the games begin. Let's go in the shop for Washington. They know their fates are sealed. It is finally St. John's class. They'll be closing it out today. Ladies and gentlemen, defeat your fourth time champion. I'm just admiring the chairs. Championship. >> That's what we're hoping to get. There you go. >> And these are the colleges that are signing students. >> Sounds awesome. >> And you couldn't have asked for a better history. What has happened? The year teams finally achieve that story. >> I'm really excited to go up through that video just so >> Hey Neil, I have
011a question. How many >> Sorry. How many actual like different games are the kids? >> There's able to compete in there's chess. There's Fortnite which is teams of two. There's Minecraft Bedw Wars which is a team of four. There's Valerant which is a team of five. And then we have Switch 2 games. We have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which you guys are probably familiar with Mario Kart. And then we also have Super Smash Brothers all day. >> And then we have this year. >> Yep. And then finally, we have Michael We is going to come up here. So I actually asked him to write this, but you guys might have seen her on Facebook cuz it's like the month of love or whatever. He's going to read. So he's going to I didn't know who
012wrote it. Actually, I had practice today. I figured it out. I'm like, "Well, you want to read school?" And he volunteered to read it. So, he's going to read what he wrote. So, Oh my god. Oh, yeah. >> One thing that makes me feel connected and included at school is being part of esports. Gives me a place where I feel like I belong and where my interests matter. Being on the esports team helps me feel more involved in school life. Essports brings out brings together students who might not normally hang out with each other. Even though we all play different games, we work together as a team and support one another. Communicating during matches and practices helps build friendships and trust. I also feel included because everyone on the team is encouraged no matter their
013skill level. Team Teammates help each other improve and give tips instead of putting others down. that makes it a positive and welcoming environment. The coaches make a big difference, too. They take the time to help us get better and motivate us to do our best. Knowing that an adult believes in us makes me feel supported and confident over. Overall, esports helps me feel connected to my school in a meaningful way. Gives me something to look forward to and a group of people I can count on. Being part of esports makes me feel more fun and inclusive. >> Awesome, guys. So any question? >> Yeah. So Neil, what is um you know like marching band or basketball? What does the season look like and what is pra what do practices look like? >> So the season's
014actually quite a bit is pretty long. So we start at the end of October and then the regular season just got over February 13th and then we'll still be doing some practice with our state kids for state which is not until March. Um what was the second part of that question? Sorry. you know, like practice practices like daily or Yeah. So, we had 17 students and we only had five computers and two switches. So, I really had those switches really had a switch uh students like off and on the computers. I would like them to be able to get more practice, but that's just due to equipment limitations, but practice Mondays went until So, we had our two Fortnite team on Mondays. They would play at 4:30. So, they would come in to practice from
0153:30 to 4:30. they would have their game and then Minecraft Bedwars is actually on Monday also at 5:30 and that could go all the way until like 7:30. So their games are set each week like it's a it's a set schedule. And then Tuesday it's our two Oh, and then we also had Super Smash Brothers Ultimate which was our solo player Christian. Um and then Tuesdays is two Fortnite games at 4:30 and then we have Mario Kart 8 Deluxe at 4:30 on Tuesdays. Wednesdays we don't have practice just cuz I need a little bit of a break. And then um Thursday is valid. Their games at 5:30, but we actually practice 3:30 to 5:30. Then we have their game and then that goes until about 6:30ish. And then Friday is just an open. It's just
016Minecraft bedwars practice. So they their games on Monday. They don't get time to practice because they have Minecraft bed war. So they get like a 2-hour practice 3:30 to 5:30. What about the chess? Chess comes on Thursdays and they practice for probably an hour or two. Yeah, I forgot about that. Sorry. An actual board game in chess. So like it's on chess.com, but when we go to state, it will be the actual physical board games at state. So you practice on Thursday. You looking for open competition? chess board that maybe about meets. Do you actually like travel somewhere to go? >> It's all remote, but it's kind of cool because like our platform is fan so we get to like meet the team and like it's almost like a match chat before and like the
017kids have them as friends and the games that they play and stuff and the only time that we actually travel is for state which is really good for busing costs cuz Yeah, it's it's been it's gone pretty well. Like we I think Woodstock donated 5,000 plus the jerseys. We have a couple sponsors. We have six computers now. We were able to get an extra computer and uh yeah, so it's just been going very well. Kind of forgot where I was going with that. >> Thanks for all the donations that have come in and how you and um sorry, forgot your name, sir. >> Oh, Carl. >> Carl have gotten this thing got up and running. I mean, I appreciate all your time. I know it's not a small feat >> to get kids rolling and
018to get everything going. >> But I can tell my mom I wasn't worth the whole life playing I know you have to like select which game or that you want to compete in or do you >> Yeah. So we had triyouts this year but everyone got on the team like everyone got on the team anyway. We had 17 kids, but yeah, they kind of picked for each game they they were best at and whatnot. So, and some of them like we were going to stick to just one one game each, but then some of them got to be in a couple couple different games. So, >> awesome. >> Yeah. Very cool. >> Any other questions? >> Yes. >> Thank you for your time. >> Yeah. Thanks for coming. Good luck. Thanks Neil. Good job. >>
019Thanks. >> Do they have any budgets in I mean is it are we just operating in our we have we have a line master agreement for esports. >> Okay. Awesome. >> I don't know if we did or not yet. >> All right. Moving on to consent agenda 6.1. Approve minutes of the January 26th, 2026 regular school meeting. School board meeting. Let's see here. >> So moved. >> Second. >> It's been >> for the whole percentage. >> Uh let's Yeah, let's let's hold off that here. So 6.2 is well. Let's wrap that in there as well. So personnel report. >> I would like to pull out the um head girls golf coach and the head boys golf coach and just discuss numbers and if we need really need both head coaches. >> So in that case,
020maybe let's put those apart then for >> Okay. the easiest. All right. Sure. >> On the minutes. It was Brad and else. >> Me, >> Chrissy. Okay. >> All right. So, back to 6.1. Sorry about that, Katie. >> It's been properly moved and seconded to approve the minutes for the January board meeting. All in favor signal signify by saying I. >> All the same sign. Motion passes. Okay. 6.2 to personnel report. Katie, your comment on the coach. >> Um, I just know last year in girls there was only two girls that went out. I don't know. And I think the numbers I don't know what the numbers are for this year. We probably don't know that yet, but I just wonder if we really need two head coaches in that sport and if it does
021it go by how many participants are there? Is there a >> I think the problem we have is that sometimes the boys varsity is say in Windham and the girls are in LeBron. So then you're like okay so now which the head coach is going to go with which group? Like I don't think that that's fair. I mean in all honesty what are we trying to save? $1,500. Yeah. I don't know. I mean in all honesty like I don't know. I I think the boys need and deserve a good coach. >> Well, I never said they did. >> No, I'm just saying I >> No, I'm not saying I'm just asking. >> I think I think if you're going to go with one head coach, it's probably going to be Grant. I don't know. But
022he's he's going to go with the girls. Like that's who he's been with the entire time. So then I feel like the boys are going to get the short end of the stick and get the assistant, whoever that may be. I think they deserve a head coach. you would need two coaches um because of the the issue of supervision when they do go to different events and um you could do a an assist a head and an assistant. Um but yeah, to your point when we look at it, that would save us about $1,530. Um, I know that both the individuals that are pursuing the head coach this year that are on the recommendation list have um both fulfilled the requirements. They've paid the money to get their coaching certification and lensure pieces taken care
023of. Um, I guess my recommendation or thought would be that we move forward with the two head coaches and we can revisit this when we move forward into our budget parameters for next fiscal year. Um, given that we're this far into this fiscal year, >> I make a motion to approve the personnel uh for this February 2026 meeting. >> Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. We approve the personnel report. All in favor signify by saying I. Oppose. Same side. Motion passes. Not financials. 7.1 review of budget year to date. >> Okay, we're sitting at 56%, last year we're at 55%. There are a lot of changes on here that will be reflected in the budget amendment. The reason it was a it wasn't an addition. I didn't think I had to do one at
024first because the overall the overall net change stayed the same between the revenue and expenses, but the overall revenue change and overall expenditures changed. So, this is the updated one with all the the amended one. >> Sure. And I can I'll talk more about the budget amendment or what I did when we get to that area. >> Any questions on the year to date? Not about the treasur's report. >> Seeing the cash balance is $8,54,000. >> Any questions or discussion on the treasurer's report? I make a motion we approve the treasures report. >> Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. All in favor? All in favor signify by saying I. I. >> All oppose. Same side. Motion passes. 7.3 approved 2023A bonds treasures report. Balance in this account. This is for rough replacement. It sits
025$730,111. And that balance that has a placeholder to ex fund by itself. It's actually sitting in fund six. >> So it'll go to the rest of the roofing project. >> That's not even in the general fund. It's sitting in a fund all by itself. >> What are what are dates of that? That'll that'll get paid out. Then >> I will have a better answer after tomorrow. I meet with TMCO's actually coming on site tomorrow with Blackhoff Griffing to put together part two. And remember, we were piecing part two into a 2A into a 2B. And 2A will cover this portion of the funds and 2B will cover the bond that we've the LTFM bond that we approved. So, um, we will have pretty definitive draw schedules ideally later on at the end of this week
026for sure, um, into the first week of of March is what I'm hoping from both Trenco and from Blackhawk. So, we can give a little clearer answer to that. But like I said, this amount is for part A. The bond is for part B. All right. >> Anything else to add on that, Jackie? From >> Anybody else have any other questions? We have a motion to approve the 2023A bonds treasures report. >> So moved. >> Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All oppose same side. Motion passes. 7.4. Approve regular bills. Everybody have a chance to read through some of those bills. I I think someone already asked, but about that Peton law one, is that just for the flooring? >> No, that was even
027had to do with the flooring. I have I have an email into Peton because what happened last month's bill the bill that that bill right there that you're looking at it's got a balance forward because it the check cross in the mail >> and it accidentally got paid the balance forward plus the current charges. I think the current charges were just 1,700. >> Oh, >> however the balance forward doesn't match what we paid. So, >> I emailed >> emailed the company and said, "Okay, I'm not understanding this." So, I think that's the wrong amount, but I can't even tell you that for sure. Okay? >> Because I'm waiting for them to get back to me. >> Okay. >> So, I don't know if the amount is supposed to be 1,600,500 because their numbers don't match.
028>> Okay. >> But we're on it. Wonderful. We haven't received that invoice yet for the flooring. >> Oh, just like that's probably not on there yet. >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Any other questions? Not. Is there a motion to approve the regular bills? >> So move. >> Second. It's >> been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. I. I. >> All oppose. Same sign. Motion passes. on to the high school activity bills. >> Any questions on the high school activity bills? >> I make a motion to approve the high school activity bills. >> Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. I. All those same sign. Motion passes. board forum or reports. >> Okay. >> Well, I got am the one that has to talk about
029the facilities meeting because I took notes, I guess. But anyway, um we met with Ryan Fullerton and Kendra Olsen from Peton Law. Um we have three problems going on. Um one is a pipe that's that is crushed by rock. Um they did some looking at and they think they well we know the wrong fill was put in. Um and so that was a concern. Um the floor in the elementary throughout the elementary um is also a concern. And then there was a toilet that was clogged in the boys what did second floor boys restroom and what happened was it flew or it started to overflow went down the steps instead of going towards the drain because the floor is not sloped properly. Um we talked to them about all of these things when in the
030end of it um like the first one there there's no defect present necessarily. The architect there's no presence or present of negligence there. Um the construction manager is probably at fault to a point but the type of contract that we have makes them known liability. So that that's as far as the the pipe and then the floor um with the or not with the floor, the toilet. Um as far as the flooring goes, um the flooring is bad. The question is, did they do something wrong? We had another flooring company look at it. The wrong glue or adhesive was used as far as they're concerned. The design of the floor also contributes due to the small points at the seams. it has a lot of the triangle points which they said makes it harder to
031get enough adhesive to hold those down. So they recommended when if and when we do replace it that we do plank um type you know like squares because it will be easy easier to get the adhesive to the corners. Um but going forward the claim needs to be within 2 years of installation. So we don't have that. the flooring installer insurance will not cover it. It's um one of those deals where the company that laid it is no longer in business. Um so they said while we probably do have a viable claim, the likelihood of collecting on it is pretty low. And they said we're probably going to be 20 to 30k um into it with just, you know, getting experts in here and lawyer costs and we probably won't get paid. So what we
032talked about as a committee um right now LA Senhaller has been coming and fixing at um the pieces as we need them or trying to keep them down. Um and at this point we're thinking that's what we want to we're just going to have him continue to do that try to get as much you know longevity out of it as we can. Um unfortunately it's going to be one of those things that we're going to have to replace sooner or later. Um, but we are also concerned about some of the moisture issues and so we want to make sure that we have that taken care of first. And did you talk to someone about doing a boring sample? Yeah, so we had talked at the meeting about doing core boring samples where you would come
033in and basically drill a hole through the concrete through the aggregate subbase all the way down to what should be the established clay base and pull that core out. Because one of the concerns that goes back to the pipe discovery is that there may be a mix of P rock and what's called pit run. Pit run has large rocks almost the size of your fist inside that mix. And that pit run um tends to hold water, retain moisture where the P rock doesn't. And so the idea behind doing the core sample would be to get a more definitive answer on on what that pit run versus P rock ratio is. One of the issues that you have with that is you would um obviously have to tear up a portion of the flooring. The expense
034it's it's a rather expensive process is what we've learned. So, one of the short-term solutions that we want to do prior to getting that intrusive in the process is to actually do some samples of moisture in the concrete itself because that moisture if it's truly an issue substrate. That moisture will migrate through the concrete and it addresses the theory that there may be moisture causing these corners to pop up and that flooring system to be failing. So, um, we want to exhaust that because it's not as cost, uh, it's not as costly, it's more cost effective, and it's not as intrusive in the process. So, um, >> well, we want to make sure that was done before we put new for >> Exactly. Exactly. Anyway, yeah. >> So, just to make sure >> that is
035that is one of those factors that Yeah, we had talked about doing a a core sample, but we want to exercise this first. >> So, how big does this get? I mean, if if we do these core samples or this moisture in the concrete and we find out it's bad, I mean, do we do we tear everything out and go all the way down? And >> I mean, what's what's the what are we trying to achieve? >> Well, they said there is another substrate that they can put down on the floor if there's moisture present there. >> Okay. >> It's expensive though. >> It's going to add an extra cost, but it's like a seal that they put on prior to putting on the floor. >> Floor. Okay. That would be my issue. Okay. >>
036Yeah. You wouldn't tear apart the concrete. You just add you would add like a barrier out is is what it is. >> Moisture barrier. >> But it is expensive. And so he said you would not want to do that if you didn't have to. >> Is there an issue with the foundation structure with the different material underneath that? >> We didn't explore that question. I don't believe there would be. Um, but again, I'm not a structural engineer, so that's that's that's a great question to ask because >> but it's doing the same thing on the second floor as the first floor, which is interesting, >> too. >> The the cool >> corner, >> the system, >> you know, it's just interesting that it's >> but to the base >> to me anyway. Yes, that is
037one of those things that I don't think there is. But again, I'm I'm not going to speculate. >> So that alludes to probably more of just the flooring is the issue. >> Right. Correct. Cuz otherwise I wouldn't if it was a moisture issue, I wouldn't think that'd be the same up on the second floor. But I also am not a flooring person, so I don't know. >> There were questions about the the amount of glue that was applied to the planks, the way that that was adhered. Um, and that's why one of the details I think Katie that's important to point out as well is the manufacturer has said that because there were installation issues, the manufacturer will not stand behind the flooring material. Right? >> Um, if it was installed correctly and this was
038happening, then the manufacturer warranty would come to bear, but the manufacturer suggesting that it was the installation that became the issue. >> Sounds correct. Great news. All right. >> Preliminary estimates were about 250,000 to replace that flooring system. So, one of the things that we discussed as a committee is that we we peace meal as we have as as Katie suggested with Lyall Seaner. Um, if we have issues where the flooring is becoming dangerous, like a trip hazard or something like that, um, we'll address that with some periodic or temporary fixes because we know that we have some allocations already in place with our LTFM that, um, really would make it prohibitive right now to go in and write a check for 250,000 to replace the floor. So, we want to kind of bandage it
039together, if you will, for a few years and and see what we can do. And it's worse by wa where the water I mean it's not as bad everywhere as it is in the country. >> It's where there's a lot of traffic. Yeah. >> It's where there's a lot of traffic or water like by the drinking fountains by the you know those those places are where you really see it. >> So, but I have seen where Lyall fixed it by the drinking fun and and you can't hardly tell. I mean it is good. Yeah, >> it looks good. So, >> any board reports? >> Calendar committee is meeting next Tuesday. >> Yes. I'm like, what? I think about where? >> I know. I was talking with Davany. I'm like, we have Tuesday. She's like, I
040have Tuesday finance. I'm like, oh, mine's calendar. >> And policies on Wednesday. >> Yeah. I does anybody else have anything otherwise Wednesday >> sorry next Wednesday. >> Um I was recommended by the MSBA to read this at this board meeting to the board members. At the last board meeting, the members of this board received an addition to the agenda regarding the superintendent's contract. We received this legal document 4 hours prior to the meeting. Given what my schedule was that day, I was unable to review the contract. As per our school board policy 203.5 schoolboard meeting agenda, supporting documents shall be sent to the school board 4 days prior to the meeting, not four hours. While some of you have been intricately involved in the negotiating of this contract, I was not. I asked to table
041the added motion until the next meeting, but the majority disagreed, which is your right. What is not your right is to have surprises at the board table and force a vote on an important contract without allowing us to have time to review the document. I just ask in the future that this board adhere to our approved policy 203.5 and follow the rules and protocol we have established. >> And I'll just make comment there, Tammy. I know I mentioned that uh last month too. That was I I take fullness of of that being added so late. Um, yeah, I completely forgot to check my school email of of those back and forth communications with um, Peton to make sure that everything was up to snuff there. Um, as far as what was agreed upon within the
042negotiations, meetings. Um, so yeah, that was that was on me as far as that not getting updated on on time or uploaded on time. >> I've also asked that a section in the contract be reviewed again. Yep. And we're working on that. I did you send me another email here? >> No, I was just going to wait. >> Yep. >> Anything else? All right, moving on to administrator's report. Superintendent's report. >> All right. Well, um board meeting board members, this uh last week marked the beginning of the legislative session and we had our first um update from MEA, the Minnesota Rural Education Association. Um and this is a big week for the legislature. On Friday by noon, they are supposed to receive their updated budget forecast. So, um, there's certainly a a lot hinging on
043that, not for the immediate legislative session, but there is what's being described as a structural deficit for the 2829 fiscal years where the state has a projected budget deficit of $2.9 billion. And given that K12 education is a excuse me a significant portion of the state budget, we cannot um deny the fact that that will have some sort of impact on on our district and and on local school systems. So um obviously there is a lot going on there. There is a group of superintendents. I'm not going to be joining them heading to the capital uh in March. Um so we'll see what comes out of the session this year. There are a number of resignations with legislators as well. So the landscape is changing pretty dramatically. And then we have a new governor. So
044um there'll be some posturing accordingly with that. So long story short, there's going to be a lot of politics played at the session this year. Um budget preparation, we're starting to do some work on that. We will be scheduling um prior to the March board meeting. I anticipate scheduling a finance committee meeting. We're projecting right now a 2.69% increase in state aid for fiscal year 27 that was established because this is year two of the bianium. So that was established last year. Um you already heard about the what I love about PAS that has just exceeded expectations in terms of what um feedback we've received. It's been so fun to see the way that staff members have been highlighted and programs have been surfaced and the comments that have come after those posts have been
045made on Facebook. Um, we have so many good things going on in the district. I think it really speaks to the hard work that's going on with our staff, our students, our administrators, our culture is just really strong and and again I give a lot of credit to around the table for the work that our teachers are doing to make that happen. um calendar development. We've already talked about that. One of the um nuances that um we'll have to go through is reviewing the 2627 calendar which is already done. Um and what we always do in our cadence as we look at that calendar, learn from this calendar or make any necessary changes and then project forward. Um, you may see in the MSB news clipping some school districts actually starting before Labor Day these
046next couple of years because Labor Day is so late. I know that that probably won't be the case here in Pipstone because we adhere pretty closely to that, but I'm certain that will come up as a point of discussion just because again other districts are starting to do that for these next two years because of the of the late Labor Day. um facilities committee. We've talked through that and artificial intelligence. We're working on some things with a um a pilot right now for a program called um Flint AI and I included a demo video for you to view if you're interested in learning more. We have some staff members that are piloting this tool. Um the feedback initially has been extremely positive. So again, it's something that we're going to continue to uh pilot and
047test. We know that artificial intelligence isn't a fad. It isn't a trend. It's something that is here to stay. We also know that a big part of what we ran into with the deployment of the onetoone devices, this is feedback that I've had from staff, is that there wasn't a great deal of staff development and support around the one:1 implementation. So, whatever we decide to do ultimately, we're making certain that there's a really strong professional development component of that. We've already had some staff development and training with artificial intelligence. Uh there's a lot of benefit in in finding a vendor that works well for a district because then you put up the guard rails where right now it's kind of the you probably heard me say this before the wild west where what you put
048on chat GPT isn't necessarily secure safe or there's data privacy issues. So um we're trying to find a tool that will help us improve teaching and learning and also provides those guard rails. Ultimately whatever we do it's the same as any other technology. We maintain the data. There is data privacy requirements that are part of anything. So um all those guardrails are going to be put in place. But something that obviously we're working on and learning more about through the process. Um I think those are the big things I wanted to highlight. Like I said earlier, we do have our meeting tomorrow with TMCO and Blackhawk. So, we'll be able to give the board like a schedule and a timeline of when that will all start and when that will conclude along with a potential
049draw schedule, which Jackie always likes to see. Any questions? >> All right. Mrs. up first. >> Okay. First, I want to um talk about our um career skills and um college expo that we have coming up on May 1st. It doesn't seem like it's coming up very quickly, but there's a lot of planning that still has to take place for this. Um so, I've been working with Dr. Willard, um with Mrs. Dulas, our counselor, and also a couple of the members of the Chamber of Commerce who it they're really proving to be a great uh team members for us. Um we are going to use a 4 hours in the morning starting at 8:30 goes to about noon. There will be breakout sessions. And the reason that I shared my half completed document, it's because
050it's just a draft. I just started. I just kind of want you to see where my brain was and what I was hoping to accomplish with this. We're very excited about about it all. And if you would like to help with it or if you would like to sign up to do a breakout session, I need some volunteers to help with my mock interviews in the library. And if you have a special skill, talent, or you have something that you want to share, I would love to have you on board. Um, I don't have to praise the esports team. That's the next thing on on my list. Um because you can tell just how wonderful how wonderful the program is for students and what it's doing for them. I think we really tapped into a
051group of students that really just are they're just uh this is sort of their space. This is the one space that they maybe didn't have before that they're comfortable in. And um I've actually seen attendance increase um heavily with with the onset of this program. That's all I have for my reporting. Awesome. I I'll just add real quick um the chamber as well as economic development authority. We have Justin Shroer has been part of those uh conversations as well. And we are scheduling it on a Friday quite intentionally because then the following Saturday we'll leave things set up, secure the facility so then the following Saturday the community can have a a a community expo. So that's why we're doing it the way that we are. Um and it's turning out to be a really
052good really good partnership. So we're super excited to see this happen. >> So the chamber is involved. chambers involved and and again economic development authority focus is really on Pipstone County businesses and chamber members. So if somebody resides outside of Pipstone County but is a member of the Pipstone Chamber, Pipstone area chamber, they can participate in that. Um, one of the concerns is that we don't want necessarily surrounding communities coming to cherrypick customers and so we're really making it about our opportunities right here in our community with the businesses and community partners that we have. >> Yeah, I know that um when Tom and Erica were in Fairmont, they used to do this with the Fairmont School District. They would um they would put together the job fair there. So it's exciting to see it
053>> come to pipes. >> Yeah. And their examples they brought out their little book of what they did in Fairmont. It's it's phenomenal. So really enjoyed working with Eric and Tom and and yeah, it's been really positive. >> All right. Good evening. February is I love to read month. I love this month and all the reading that we have. If you see down below, there's a lot of events that we have going on throughout the month. Couple of them that I want to highlight. We have a weekly book drawing for our students. So, um, on the on Fridays, we draw about four or five students per classroom that they can come down and we have books kind of separated for different age levels down there and they get to pick that up. Um outside of
054our library, we have two football fields that are going on there and so the there's class ones with the teachers little heads and little football players and then the teachers are on the other one. So check that out. So every 5 minutes that's read is a yard on the football field which is pretty cool. We had our all day reading event on Friday and it was so awesome just to see the kids just diving into books. I know in Mrs. Stephanie's room. She set up four different tents, four big tents in her room. And going on the kids, yes, the kids were all just reading and it was just fun to um see that. Some fun dress up days. Tomorrow is animal print, which is exciting. I attended the principal's conference at the beginning of
055the month. Loved that. Lots of great things that I get to bring back to my staff. the fourth grade, every grade level is doing something to kind of get the community involved. And for this last month, fourth grade had the community connection and you can see all of the different community members that came to visit with the fourth graders. We had kicked off to wellness week and that's been fun. The kids have been um working hard to get some money and we'll get our grand totals here put together. Our preschoolers had someone I love day. This was so much fun. They got to spend the day kind of whoever they wanted to invite and they got to decorate cookies and some fun events in the lunchroom. Our airway assembly is on Friday and we're going
056to recognize one student from every classroom who's really demonstrated kindness. Every morning during morning announcements, I talk about it and we talk about it in the classroom. What does kindness look like? We have terrific kid on Friday and our attendance goal. That's our update. As of right now, we're at 94.3%. So, we're ahead of our goal, which is exciting. And then this month, we recognize the National School Counseling Week and our resource officer. So, a big shout out to them. And I and I think just a big shout out to my elementary teachers. They're incredible. The educators that we have is just phenomenal. And of course, we have amazing kids. That's my report on the fourth grade community connection. What did they come in and do? Talk about their businesses or do they just spend
057time with the kids or >> I think they they spend time with the kids but then come in and share with them, hey, these are the things that are out in the community. >> Okay, cool, >> thank you. Uh, Miss Peas could not make it tonight. Uh, I see she does have her report listed here. >> She said if you have any questions, reach out to her. >> I saw the mental health education part in there and I think it kind of um resembles what Katie was talking about. >> Yeah, I thought so too when I seen that when I read it. What was your the program called that you went that you >> what was it? Hope. What did I tell you? >> I think it was hope. I have to look it up.
058But yes, >> that sounds something like that. >> I have that on me right now. >> But yes, it sounds like the same type of program. Looks or something >> on this piloting of this AI program. I probably should have asked when somebody was talking about it before, but um do we have a range of teachers in all of those grades or is it kind of >> You mean that are test pilot? >> Yeah. That are test piloting it. Yeah. >> Like I know in the email we had said that it was like 4 through 12 and >> Yeah, we have a couple at the elementary middle school and high school staff. Yeah. >> Kind of get a good good idea of >> elementary. Yes. >> What maybe it would would use. Yeah, we have
05911 different in my building. We have um middle school has so six through 12. I've got someone at every in every grade band and >> tried to make it different subject areas as well. >> Yeah. Okay. >> And both teachers and paras representation as well. >> Oh, okay. Good. >> And we have our STEM teacher elementary. >> Very good. It'll be interesting to see what they say, you know, when it's all said and done. And >> we um >> I don't have a clue how it works. >> I don't either. >> We use AI a lot at work. >> I've heard people use it for for turning in um customer orders. Um, we use it for like at a meeting like this, we'll hit start and AI will record it and then it'll spit out
060um >> Oh, sure. >> all everything that was discussed in bullet point. It's amazing. >> Deborah, are you test piling it then? one of one of our teachers has test pilot and the feedback that that the teacher gave me as they utilized it um and they were able to really tailor feedback directly to with this particular tool to how the student did on an assessment. So there became really focused, okay, you were strong in this area, here's the areas where you struggle on the assessment. So then it had a series of events that and experiences that the student could work through. Um and it gives a variety of modalities too so that it's not just keying, there can be speaking, there can be listening. So again, it's it's really um it's really dynamic in terms
061of how the tool works and and what the tool produces to really target specific needs that a learner might have for for their unique need. I like that we're like looking at different options like that for kids, >> you know, to try and individualize learning in this building. >> Mhm. >> To put a little perspective around it. I was at a conference and they spoke on AI and you know, all of us have our our phones, our iPhones, and there's a new iPhone upgrade what every year, every 18 months. They said right now AI is moving so fast that every 60 days >> Jeez, >> it's doing a like an upgrade. >> Wow. >> It's moving that quick right now. >> With its potential. >> It's crazy. >> It's kind of scary. >> It is
062kind of scary, >> right? Yeah, for sure. >> Don't go home and watch Terminator. >> Yeah, exactly. All right, moving on to resolution accepting donations. Uh, bear with me here. I'm going to read through the donations. So, the first one is from the American Legion Post 6, $500 to the Youth Tackle Football. The next one be DNT Meat Market of $500 to the robotics team. Actually, all of these will be your robotics team. Um, so B& Meat Market of $500, Dr. Paul Henrikson of $100, Tire $200, Pipstone Building Materials, $100, Daro Food of Pipstone, $250, Pipstone Auto Body and Glass, $150, Whips Auto Sales, $25. Steve Everett of Everett Tire, $100. Scots Auto, $50. GNS Auto Body Shop, $100. Pepsi Cola Bottling, $100. and Pipstone Family Chiropractic, $100. And then we have donations to esports
063from Woodstock Communications, $1,140, and First State Bank Southwest of $500. Not done yet. Uh, Chrys King Lutheran, $100 donated to a wellness room. also to welcome room $175 from Jasper ELC and then Super Energy of $1,400 14.90 and.35 donated for translating translating earbuds for the elementary. So, >> and then there's one. Did >> I miss one? >> Chapstick amount, but >> Oh, elementary booster club and Jasper Lions Club chapstick emotion for all elementary students. So, huge thank you to all of those sponsors. That's awesome to see community involvement and support. It >> is very cool. >> How does the translating earbuds work? >> So, you have to download this app. We I haven't used them yet. I know some other teachers have. And then you put the earbuds in and you talk and it translates
064and >> Wow. >> How many Do you know how many different languages? >> I do. >> Okay. Josh, >> I was looking at getting some of their work. >> I know. Really? >> Oh, yeah. >> Do we have a motion accepting? >> Like that. >> Those donations. >> So moved. >> Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All oppose. Same sign. >> Motion passes. All right. 11.2 two board authorizes the administration to initiate the strategic planning process consistent with board policy 601 school district curriculum and instruction goals uh adopted July 1124 utilizing funding from the closing the educational opportunity gap grant funding. Again, we we are at a point where our strategic plan concluded December 2025. Um, and so we went through early January kind
065of a work session where we received feedback from the board about one of the musthaves in a in a new plan. We also had surveyed staff um and got their feedback and received input from them about the impact of the strategic plan as well as um their level of involvement and consistently we heard that there needed to be more staff involvement. This is both from the staff feedback as well as the board feedback. There needs to be more staff involvement. Um we need to have something that is impactful in the day-to-day work of staff which is the chart that's in the recommendation in front of you. And then this is funding that would come without any impact to our local taxpayers because this is money that is has been set aside in the grant funds.
066As you might recall, the grant was over $400,000 I believe to date. We've expended about 5258,000 something like that. Um so we do have space within the grant and if we don't use the money we lose the money. So, it makes sense that we would uh utilize those funds because the grant did have a line item knowing that we were getting to that that sunset for the support of the strategic plan. And then ultimately, whoever we pick would have to adhere to those requirements um which does state in policy 601 that the school board um must adopt a comprehensive long range or long-term strategic plan. So, um, that's really the crux of everything and the whole process that we would go through and identify somebody and then move forward with getting that rolling consistent with
067those expectations. So, really this motion would just be to utilize those funds or giving the approval to utilize those funds for finding a partner to the strategic plan. Correct. We have a motion to approve 10.2. It's moved. Second. >> It's been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> All oppose. Same sign. >> Motion passes. 10.3 ALC student participation in graduation. All right. Well, I'll just go over real quickly that since our last meeting um I have had a couple of conversations with um the Southwest West Central Service Cooperative, Cliff Cardy, the executive director, who I believe everybody around Pipstone knows and knows quite well. Um, one of the things that he and I discussed was moving forward with a process of program review and evaluation and the Southwest
068West Central Service Cooperative has agreed that they will solicit a third party consultant um, which will be something that they manage to do a program review because again the ALC's are not just here in Pipstone. there's other ALC programs across the service cooperative footprint. And as we reviewed all of the feedback that we received, and again, I I know that there was a tremendous amount of feedback that came um both for and against moving forward, but what what I would like to recommend going forward is that we approve a one-time exception for the current ALC seniors. So, those that are able and eligible to graduate this spring. So when I say able, um, that they have met and eligible, that they have met all of the graduation requirements consistent with the expectations to fully participate
069in the traditional high school ceremony. And then what we would do is develop um some long-term policies within our student handbook for participation in future traditional graduation ceremonies. Those guidelines would essentially state in my anticipation of the handbook update that ALC students from this from SWWC would not participate in the high school graduation ceremonies by walking across the stage that they would have instead their recognized celebration through the ALC at the SWWC ALC program. Um, and there are a number of things that we anticipate that will be coming from the review that this that SWWC conduct conducts to ensure that they're meeting the requirements that the state has and the programming, the attendance, all those factors. But what's really parochial to the Pipstone area schools is our guiding northstar, which is our portrait of a
070graduate. And when we say that our our students are graduating from Pipstone area schools, we need to have the asurances that those competencies that have been identified through a portrait of a graduate being a collaborator, a community a a communicator, a community contributor, a strategic thinker, and a performance-minded individual that those core pieces of our portrait of a graduate are being met. Um, we recognize that the decision came midy year. So this allows those seniors that started the year to walk, but it also recognizes that the ALC is a choice program. So it does allow people the opportunity and students the opportunity in the future on the choice that they wish to make. If it is truly a choice that is central to their needs academically, um obviously that's the ALC is where they need
071to be. So, at the end of the day, we know that this has no fiscal implication on the district. Um, and we do make the recommendation after receiving all the input that we have. I'm just going to conclude my comments by stating that I think this has been a fabulous conversation because I think it's really highlighted the importance of a high school diploma, the value of that diploma. And when we think about our portrait of a graduate, how important and paramount those tenants are that we've established at this board table when we think about those key uh five key uh attributes that we want and expect every Pipstone area school graduate to have. So, um, that's kind of the summary of the recommendation. Again, taking an input that we received last month and bringing it
072forward to this month's action. >> And just so we're clear, it's not just ALC. It would be anybody that is homeschooled, anybody that's choosing to go online school. I mean, to me, it's not just this program. Yeah. >> I have a lot of questions. Um just because when I think of ALC I think of what the experience was when we were in high school. myself meaning probably we all went to high school for but when you know we had the ALC it was a program a credit recovery program that you went to after school and you um you the the ALC worked with the district the teachers uh the curriculum that needed to be made up in order to get that credit recovery. You had to log your hours. You had to I mean there
073was it was you had to be present and there was a lot of intertwining between the two programs and they work very well together. So I've I've heard so many different things that I think I need clarity and I don't know if we have it. Um, so I I like I said, I have a lot of questions and so I'm just going to ask and if you can't answer them, that's fine. Um, the attendance expectations at PAS compared to the attendance expectations at the ALC, is there a difference? There is a difference. Um, in when Dr. Willard and I met with a couple of the administrators over at the ALC, um, they they didn't go into great detail. It's it's not my program. I just know that they they are the hours are flex and
074they differ amongst every single student and based on what they think that student needs. At in my building, school starts at 8:15 and ends at 3:15. How many hours uh a year does a student need to attend to complete a grade? A student in high school needs to complete 1,020 hours of instruction at Pipstone High School and at the ALC they do it according to they work with the parents or they just work with the student or they work or from I really some of this I since I'm not I'm not the managing supervisor out there I really don't know exactly how it's run. Um, I can tell you that it's not run in sort of a partnership like that you described. I don't know what goes on out there. I'll be perfectly honest with
075you. That is one of my questions. >> I have visited one time and I've met with um I've met with some of the people that are out there. Uh I've talked to parents, families, and students about their experiences, but at the end of the day, I wouldn't call myself an expert in in what the ALC is. And just to clarify, we're talking about uh participation in this the commencement ceremony, not graduation because you gradu That's different. Correct. Graduation, you get the diploma. >> Yes. >> The where the commencement ceremony is what is at question. >> Yes. >> Okay. Just want to clarify that for everyone cuz sometimes when you hear graduation, you just think of the ceremony. >> Yeah. Um, does our district get to verify that the credits awarded by the ALC reflect the
076same mastery required at PAS? And I'm going to assume no because you said there was not a lot of communication. >> We we don't get any we are we are informed that they have met the requirements. >> We are giving our requirements. They they met our requirements. >> The state requirements. the state requirements. The state requirements are different than our requirements. >> That's within the state. >> That's what makes it the alternative to learning center. >> So, do are do are some students given the option to not do any in person and to do all online? >> I I don't know the answer. Again, these are questions I don't I don't know because we're not there every day. So, I think what we have to remember is this is the Southwest Central Service Co-ops Alternative
077Learning Center, right? This is >> No, I know that, but I feel like I need to know the differences, >> right? >> And I mean, because what I hear, it's not the same as it was even 7 years ago prior to CO. And so, I want clarification before I'm able to make a decision >> on if I'm going to approve that or not. Well, and then I'll I'll interject real quickly, Daffany, there because um I think I've shared this information before with with the board. In 2020, this structure wasn't in place. >> And then in the first year, um and if you just give me a second, I'll pull up pull up my information that I have. Um the first year, the district expended I believe it was approximately 30 32,000 there. Um, and that
078number continued to grow up until a couple of years ago where we expended $280,000 there. And then I believe last year was around 250. This year we're on FAP for it to be a little bit less again, but the peak was like 280. So we know that um the attendance at the ALC has grown pretty significantly since 2020. >> 250,000. >> 200 Yeah. two the highest was 280,000 a couple years ago. 250 I believe last year. >> Right. So from 2021 it's increased almost 250,000. >> Correct. >> How would you tie that to amount of students? >> Obviously more student go from did they go from two to 20? >> I don't I don't have the number of students there. And did we ever get that information from Christ? >> No. But if I remember
079correctly, and this is this is not 100% sure, but it's just based on my memory. I want to say we're at 28 out there. >> And how many are seniors? >> Eight. >> Um, >> how many how many would attend from neighboring districts that also use that as an ALC? How do we compare to other districts? I don't know all districts, but I do know in communication with Murray County Central, for example, we're significantly higher. >> What's significant? >> I think they have like three or four. >> Well, it's easy, right? It's right in town. It does make it very convenient. I mean, I I I get >> But if it's a But if it's something you need, >> right? But I'm just saying if it's But it Well, everything has a convenience factor. >>
080I'm going to say that, you know. I mean, it's convenient. That's probably why we're seeing higher numbers, you know, per se, than maybe someone that's slain 40 miles away, you know, >> right? Well, I'm sure their own cuz I think I think Edertton Public shares our ALC. >> Yeah, they do. >> Yeah. >> And so does Leverne and I think there comes here, too. >> I think there's been kids from Lever there. Yes, that's what I was told. So, do are any students who are in within our district using the ALC for just a class like a credit >> of recovery like a credit recovery or are they are they here full-time or they're full-time or is there because when I was in school it was it was for a class or two class it
081right it wasn't >> there's there's I want to just preface my answer uh with we do also still have a credit recovery program within our own school that students are able to utilize as well. Um, how many students do I see going out there for just some credit recovery? Very few. I would say the majority of students are either out there for like all of their core classes or all of their electives and they come here for their core classes. I would say the majority are there full-time that once they choose to go out there, it's they're they're taking everything out there. So they're not working closely with our district at all. So they don't have like the require I mean they don't have the same hours that are required for us. They I'm assuming
082you know the form policies are different. The attendance policies are different. >> Yes. But they have they I know that they are more um able to be quite flexible with the things that they do with their programming more so than we are. um kids on IEPs. So that this part I tried to work it in my head and if there's a student on an IEP in the district and um they need credit recovery or just a different learning environment and the ALC is going to be a better option for them. Do they have a case manager anymore? Does that IEP change completely? Are they still have the manager with >> they still able to receive the services that are required on um under their IEP? What typically happens is we have a a transition meeting
083with the IEP team with the parents with the student and the people that will be working with them over at the ALC and then they determine um how those students needs are going to be met and the uh IEP could be modified at that time. >> Okay. But we still we still have the case manager here like >> no it gets manager they have special ed teachers out there and so then they are then receiving their services at the other location. >> Okay. And so they're basically released from our care and they go to that that facility. >> Are you always notified when students leaving or is it just is it like you get the notification that that records need to be transferred? >> I have that has happened um with an IEP the students
084on IEP I'm always notified because I have to be a part of that team. Mhm. >> Um when we transition, but um other students, yes, they have chosen to go over there and have have, you know, signed up and enrolled and and so I I don't always know. >> I have more. Hold on. I'm skipping around. Um have you seen any students leave PS and go to the ALC um where credit recovery was not needed? um that they've done well in the classrooms with their peers and that they are in good standing at the high school. Students, there have been students that are in current good standing in on the path to graduate that have chosen and elected to go out there. Yes. Full-time. Correct. It is a choice program. So, it's not always us
085referring. >> I don't refer. >> You don't even get to refer, right? >> No. No. >> I might, if I really think it's going to be a great option for a student, I might pull the the family in and and have a conversation. You know, this isn't working or you're not able to get to school. Um, should we look at other options because you might not be on track to graduate? Then I might I will absolutely make that recommendation and we kind of make that decision together as a group. Um but I do not have to refer they they are a choice program so families can definitely go out there on their own accord. >> So when a when a family or or um someone comes to you and says I think this is a
086better option um for my student and parents you know typically we we know our kids quite well. What is the process look like then? And how do you how do you base if you're going to refer because it's not always about credit recovery? >> Well, it's different for every child and really there are some extenduating circumstances that I have been witnessed to where I have thought it was a great idea for them because the ALC could do things that we couldn't do um here at the high school. I would say that that scenario is more of a minority in what I'm seeing. So I will have a conversation in person is what I what I mandate. I want an inerson conversation with the student with my team with the parents and we have a full
087discussion. I may say I don't agree. I really would ask that you try to you know xyz so you can stay in the building here with with me and with your friends and with your peers. At the end of the day that final decision is up to the parent not me. Um so one of our requirements to be um participate in the commencement is to be in good standing. So if a student leaves midyear without working with the district or even notifying, do you still consider them to be in good standing if they left? So after this hearing meeting, I'm not sure if I can answer. Good standing is for us at this at the high school, a good good standing is to be on on track and you have all of your you're you're
088not failing. You're passing all of your classes and you've met all the requirements. That is what good standing means. >> So, so we just have to take it from them that they're in good standing is what you're saying. >> That's accurate. >> So, it's not in like good standing with the community at that point. It's not >> Great question. No, it has nothing to do with um their responsibility, their civic leadership, their ethics. No, it's lit. It's just about grades. And if you've met the requirements, >> has it always been just about grades? >> Does anyone know? >> That's just a terminology that one would use good standing. In good standing, that just means grades for high school. >> I don't know that we've ever, at least not since I've been here, I don't know
089that we've had a character requirement. >> No. Yeah. like way back in the day when you and I were maybe in high school. >> Well, and I know I have talked I talked to a community member that had a child that went through the ALC and had a child that went through regular high school. both struggled. Um, and she actually said too, you know, she said there is a huge difference between the the different school like what happens in each school and the the amount of seat time that's present and just the amount of um things that are required at this high school versus ALC. And she's seen that firsthand just with her two children. and she actually said, "You know what? I'm I'm surpris I was surprised that my one child ended up in
090the same spot my other child did." Not that I mean, my one child needed the ALC and it was great and it got them the high school diploma that they needed and now he's working and he's doing well, but she goes, "I was also surprised that there wasn't a difference. It's like what's the point of be staying here and doing the amount of time that it takes to be a high school graduate here if you can go here and not do that and get the same thing in the end is what and that was her perspective from having two children one in each system you know she said both worked great for her I mean it was the way the path that was meant for her kids and she didn't you know discount it necessarily
091but she did acknowledge that there is a big difference >> I want to piggy back off that JP I I want to like thank you parents >> for taking an interest in your students or excuse me your your children. Um I think far too often when things like this come arise um there's not good discussion being brought up and so like Dr. Willlet had mentioned I think this has brought up a lot of good discussion and moving forward I think there's a lot of good things that are going to come from this discussion. Um, I think we're we're having a hard time breaking away and and and I think we're really looking at this as the us versus them, right? And so it's not a we think the ALC is bad. >> It is an
092alternative learning center. Um, to me as a board member, I think, okay, my my interest needs to be let's make sure that we have as many students in our facilities. Um, we've already invested in this place. We've invested in our staff and our teachers. Um, so we need to make sure that we're utilizing all of that infrastructure as as efficient as we can. And so when we have an alternative learning center, excuse me, within our town, that does tend to peel more students away. It's not a bad thing, right? You need to make the best choice for your student, sorry, for your child if they need to go to a different place to learn. Um, for us though, I think we need also need to try and stop that. Maybe I don't want to say
093competition cuz it's it's not necessarily competition, but at the same Excuse me. Bear with me here. I want to make sure that we are doing our due diligence. and keeping as many students in this facility as possible. Um, in the ALC, yes, it takes away it is an alternative deal. Um, with that as well because we have no jurisdiction or we don't have the ability to inset our curriculum within it. To me, it's odd then that we would have them walk within the Pipstone area school ceremony because there already is a Southwest ceremony for the LC. >> Well, I just think it's if if homeschool kids aren't be aren't able to walk, nor are online school kids, why would that be an exception when it's all the same? It's all different, you know, it's all
094not our school. >> It's all choice programs that people are make. you know, I mean, it it is all things that Yeah, they're all choices that are >> And just being very transparent. I I struggle with the wording in the recommendation. I I struggle with part of it. I agree with part of it. >> I also know that um kids when they enter high school or any part of high school, it's I don't want mistakes to define them and their outcome. And there are kids that lose their way at some point or they need a different um option or a credit recovery. >> And I like that this is available to them and it is an option that if they failed freshman year and they're trying to make it up and they can't make up
095a full year, >> they have, you know, an opportunity to do it over the next three years for that credit recovery. But I don't like the fact that there is no communication from the ALC. We there's just I feel like they're two separate things. >> Something I'll interject real quick there, Daffany, and and I think you bring up a great point and this was one of the questions that actually came from one of our constituents, our parents, was um about a an an agreement. Um, and I throw that near quotes because it's there's supposed to be on file a locally determined agreement. And when I was challenged to present a copy of that agreement, I couldn't. And equally, when the service cooperative was asked to provide that agreement, they couldn't. So, in communication with the
096state, we have been given a sample ALC cooperative agreement process. And I envision that through this program review that there'll be multiple seats at the table ensuring that we do have that agreement done and in place. And I think it's going to create and foster more of that communication that you're talking about because I think I think that's something that's missing. And I think that's that's what Mrs. Orman and I have asked for. That's why we went out and visited last year because we want to know what's going on because at the end of the day when we're when we're recommending to you as a board that yes, these students have met our requirements and and we can stamp our approval and and put our names behind it that they're ready to graduate and represent
097Pipstone Area Schools. We want that to mean that that that is exactly what they're capable of doing. And right now we we can't because there isn't that communication. >> Has anyone talked to the to the LC about being open to like doing like that? >> I don't know what you would call it. An intake form is not the correct wording. What is it called? >> That's the correct term. Yeah. >> Is it like where everyone sits down and they're >> Yes. Yeah. And then and that's like I said part of what I envision coming out of this review process. >> So for kids that need that or the school approves that and then but they're still part of our school. You mean you mean they're going out there for credit recovery? They're coming back. >>
098Mhm. >> Like it's cooperative action >> and they I feel like they should Yeah. have the option to walk and I and I maybe I'm reading that wording incorrectly in the presented any other discussion >> speak is not possible >> uh sorry you would have needed to speak within the public forum section sorry That's a lot of misinformation. >> Mrs. Orman, I'm so disappointed. >> Okay. >> Any other discussion from board? Okay. So, we've got a recommendation to allow the this senior's class to walk followed by the rest of the ALC students um followed by we would cease to allow those ALC students to walk beyond this year >> and they would be recognized at their own graduation ceremony. >> Correct. from a simple ceremony standpoint. >> So, are these two things or one? >>
099So, this would be one recommendation. >> Someone would have to make a motion. >> Make a motion to >> You can make whatever motion you want. But yeah, >> and if there's no motion, what happens? >> Stays. >> It dies and we continue the practice that we're engaged in right now. Is there an opportunity to bring like like I would like to make the motion to allow the um 2026 graduates to walk this year cuz I do feel like it was short notice. >> Mhm. and then to just have some more questions answered maybe and allow us to ask the service co-op maybe some questions. I don't know. I feel like just some things are unclear for me yet. Can make a motion whatever you want. need to write it down. >> So, Daffany, were
100you, if I can take the liberty to interpret what I think I heard you say is you would like to make a motion that allows the existing seniors on path to graduate if they meet the requirements to graduate this year and defer action until a later date on subsequent graduation ceremony participation. Yeah, I would like that done yet this year like but I just before fall of next year. >> Yes. >> Second. >> Okay. I need a motion. >> I'm making a motion. I'm making a motion to allow the 2026 graduating >> I have allowed the 2026 existing seniors on path to graduate. >> Yep. from the LC to walk >> walk >> at the >> and to >> defer >> to be able to ask some more questions, get some more clarity >> for
101subsequent graduated classes for subsequent classes. >> Thank you. It's been moved and seconded. >> I need a second. >> A second. Sorry, me. Okay. >> All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All oppose. Same sign. >> I. >> Motion passes. >> There was four that were voted against. Correct. >> Heard three. >> There's three. >> I heard four. >> Want to do a roll call? >> Yes. Roll call. >> So yes. >> Yes. >> Nate. >> Okay. >> Nate. >> Yes. >> May Tyler Tanny. Yes. Chrissy Mark. >> All right, moving on to 10.4 budget amendment for general fund. >> Okay, my laptop died, but I shouldn't need it. So basically what I do when I go through here and look at this I go back and I check the June 30th
102especially the June 30th 2025 receivable I don't remember October talking about that is still an estimate at 6:30 I go back and make sure that those are okay and they work then I go back and I look at the what if again and what I estimated for student accounts because when I do the general ed what if I have to guess that the student accounts for this year I have absolutely no information and it's still an estimate from prior year. So when I redo the estimate this time of year, I actually have at least at least a more submissions. So I know what students are here. I was really close on the student account. So I couldn't generate any estimated more revenue there. Unfortunately, special ed, I was pretty close too. So I go through
103every line item and basically the revised projected deficit stayed the same. The only change was the revised revenue. um actually decreased and the expenditures decreased. So, it's kind of amazing that I came up with the same cost because well, it is I went through line item. I didn't know that was going to happen. So, here's all the line items like oh wow 55,000 in expenses and I get the revenue was like oh 55 it was really close. >> So, Basically, I just if you want to look down the major areas, those are the major areas of significant items that were increased or decreased from the revised budget. >> Have a motion to accept the budget amendment for the general fund. >> So moved. >> Second. It's been moved and seconded. All in favor signify by
104saying I. I. >> All oppose, same sign. Motion passes. We have a motion to adjourn the meeting. Second. It's been moved and seconded. All in favor of during the meeting signify by saying I. I. All oppose. Same sign. We are journed.