Jolene Bengtson

The Board of Education meeting involved the review of administrative, director, and enrollment reports. The Board approved the Consent Calendar, which included the approval of financial reports, investments, banking transactions, and the acceptance of monetary donations and awards. Additionally, the resignation of a food service staff member was accepted. The Board also approved an agreement with the City of Pine River for security services for the upcoming school years, a Region 5 Reciprocity Agreement for professional development credits, and a Memorandum of Understanding with the Service Employees International Union regarding paraprofessional work schedules.

The Board of Education approved the fiscal year 2026 revised budget and authorized the fiscal 2025-26 Audit Statement of Work Agreement. Key personnel actions included the hiring of a Middle School Principal, an Elementary School Principal, a Speech Language Pathologist, and a Varsity Girls Basketball Coach. Additionally, the Board approved a Master Agreement between the school district and the Principals Association. Resignations were accepted for a Physical Education Teacher, a Route Bus Driver, and an Elementary Teacher, with authorizations to post for their replacements.

The Board of Education discussed and adopted a resolution regarding the discontinuance and reduction of educational programs and positions. Additionally, the Board approved a new administrative structure consisting of a 3.0 FTE principal model covering high school, middle school, and elementary school levels, and authorized the hiring of an additional Speech Language Pathologist for the upcoming school year.

The board reviewed a request from senior class officers to hold graduation on the football field and received administrative, director, and enrollment reports. The consent calendar was approved, encompassing financial transactions, investment reports, and the hiring of various paraprofessional and seasonal athletic coaching staff. Discussion topics included a book review for strategic planning, an update on summer facility capital projects, the fiscal status of the Paul Bunyan Education Cooperative, and a request to construct a garden shed on school property. Additionally, the board approved a new employment contract for the Superintendent and a memorandum of understanding regarding the payout of unused vacation days.

The Board of Education held a special meeting to discuss and deliberate on the strategy for labor negotiations with the Pine River-Backus Principals' Association, which included a closed session as permitted by state law.