Betsy Beaton

Key discussions during the meeting focused on the importance of monitoring charter school implementation for the subsequent year, including proactive partnership establishment and ensuring smooth transitions between schools. The committee also debriefed the special legislative session, discussing HB 1621 regarding the Presidential Physical Fitness Test requirement and the failure of HB 1624 which proposed free breakfast and lunch for all K-12 students statewide. Furthermore, the Superintendent reported that federal Title funding is expected to remain consistent with the prior year, noting a new calculation formula for Title II and Title IV funding is anticipated to positively impact the District.

The committee reviewed the Community Engagement Plan Overview provided by ICON Architectural Group for the construction of the new Horace Mann Elementary School, which emphasizes heritage preservation and community connection. Discussion covered upcoming History Harvest community engagement events scheduled for Horace Mann, Madison, and Roosevelt schools in January and February. The committee also reviewed communications efforts and assets used during the 2017 excess mill levy vote, noting readiness to develop a 2026 vote plan once the Board defines the ask. Follow-up items from the November meeting included reviewing updates to the 'Contact All School Board Members' information and a draft update to GP-5 regarding the President's role in stakeholder communication. The item regarding a video script was tabled until the next meeting.

Key discussions centered on providing an update regarding Special Education Transportation, including collaboration with Valley Bus and administrator training, with a follow-up scheduled for May or June. The committee debated the appropriate entity, Board or Administration, responsible for the TIF/PILOT policy, resulting in an administration action to draft a new Governance Process document for review in February. An update on the Horace Mann Elementary Building Project indicated it is nearing design development completion, with the first bid package to be presented for Board approval on January 13. Reports reviewed included the Bluestem Revenue and Expenditure Report and general fund budget revisions through December 31, 2025. The 2025 Audit Report overview confirmed an unmodified opinion, noting an adjustment required for recognizing employee leave liabilities per GASB Statement #101. Deficit reduction strategies were discussed based on staff feedback, focusing on themes like staffing, administrative spending, and program reviews. Finally, the Committee reached consensus to recommend no increase in School Board member compensation.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda, including an addendum. Key reports included an update from the FEA President on celebrations and challenges, and an administration report highlighting staff recognitions, school recognitions (AP Honor Roll), a student lifesaving award, progress on the portrait of a graduate development, and an update on budget planning regarding reductions and reorganizations. A presentation on enrollment projections indicated a forecasted increase of approximately 129 K-12 students by 2030-31. Significant discussion centered on proposed changes to the middle school schedule to enhance instructional time, shorten advisory, lengthen class periods, and adjust music and elective course offerings, including the introduction of a new High School Readiness course for 8th graders. The Consent Agenda approved HR actions, financial reports, and accepted the monitoring report for Board Policy EL-15. Business items included the acceptance of the 2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, the approval of Bid Package #1 for Precast Wall Panels for the Horace Mann Elementary School Project, establishing a Guaranteed Maximum Price, and the approval of four early dismissal days for the 2026-27 school year to facilitate necessary professional learning, particularly for the implementation of the new Infinite Campus system. The Board also authorized the execution of a Permanent and Perpetual Easement with the City of Fargo for property adjacent to South High School. Board reports covered committee updates, including work on policy recommendations, and the President noted an upcoming work session regarding strategic planning and budget.

The committee reviewed and reached consensus to approve the minutes from the previous meeting. Key discussions involved policy review for EL-4, specifically adding language regarding employee reclassification under existing policy point #5, with administration directed to refine the language. Discussions on potential budget savings included a proposed change to GP-14, the travel policy for Board members regarding national conference eligibility, and maintaining the current practice of having a police presence at regular Board meetings. Additionally, the committee reviewed and finalized the draft agenda for a future Work Session planned for February 26, adjusting sections related to the Strategic Plan Update, 2026-27 Budget Reductions & Reorganization, and the Mill Levy Vote. Future agenda planning for February meetings was also established, including discussions on monitoring policies and specific consent items like playground equipment and coaching services awards.