Cherie Braspenick

The board meeting included several recognitions of student and staff accomplishments, such as the Nichollet Middle School chess team, Burnsville High School Science Fair participants, the school drum line, and the Quiz Bowl team. Additionally, an individual student was honored for receiving a National Honor Society scholarship. The board also received an annual report on the Q Comp program, which detailed the role of coaches, implementation of new rubrics, and the success of district-wide learning walks for instructional staff.

The committee meeting focused on reviewing and discussing several school board policies. Key items included updates to instructional curriculum policies, district system accountability verbiage, credit for learning, and student surveys to align with state statutes and model policies. Additionally, the committee discussed workload limits for special education teachers, immunization requirements, and changes in testing accommodations, modifications, and exemptions for students with IEPs and 504 plans. Finally, the committee reviewed student attendance policies and addressed concerns regarding early dismissals and late arrivals.

The meeting featured a presentation on the school report for Burnsville High School, highlighting datadriven leadership, core values, and strategic directions. Discussion topics included the progress and impact of the Ninth Grade Academy, the importance of the Building Assets Reducing Risk (BAR) program, and strategies for improving graduation rates and student support. Additionally, the board discussed attendance, cellphone and bathroom policies, the integration of EL learners through collaborative instruction, and the school's efforts to engage families and improve long-term student success.

The meeting featured a presentation on Hidden Valley Elementary School and a report from the Student Performance and Achievement Committee regarding graduation and college/career readiness. The Board received an FY27 budget feedback report and updates from the Legislative and Policy Review Committees. Actions taken included the approval of personnel recommendations, financial reports including payroll and investments, an extended field trip for the Nicollet Chess Club, and several policy revisions. Furthermore, the Board granted preliminary approval for a Travel Club trip to Japan, approved the Early Childhood Special Education stretch calendar for the 2026-2027 school year, set premiums and rates for FY27 employee benefits, and authorized a one-year extension of the Cedar School lease with Intermediate District 917.

The board held a retreat with the purpose of receiving educational training regarding Culturally Proficient School Systems.