Kevin Arnold Schneider

The Board of Education meeting included reports from the school board, elementary and high school principals, and the superintendent. Key discussion topics covered health initiatives, student achievement in math competitions, school infrastructure projects including a roofing upgrade, and various staffing updates. The board also reviewed presentations for student trips and acted on numerous personnel items, such as resignations and new hires. Additional actions included approval of the 2026-27 school calendar, adult education contracts, and the adoption of new policies.

The board discussed administrative staffing for the upcoming school year, specifically focusing on the potential hire of an elementary principal versus an assistant principal, considering both budgetary concerns and operational feedback from instructors. After debating different structural options and candidates, a motion was carried to post for either a full-time K-6 principal or a K-12 assistant principal position. Additionally, the meeting recognized the Sleepy Eye FFA Chapter for their achievements as a Premier Chapter.

The Board of Education discussed various administrative and operational updates, including committee reports on crisis management, mascot naming rights, and contract negotiations. Principals provided reports on curriculum development, staff evaluations, and school facility maintenance plans. The superintendent shared highlights regarding long-term facility planning, new conference scheduling software, and legislative priorities presented at the state capital. The board approved multiple personnel actions, including staff resignations, contract extensions, the non-renewal of a probationary teacher, and the Achievement and Integration Plan.

The board meeting included positive updates, such as student participation in the Uniquely-Abled Program through South Central College and recognition for student achievements in academics and athletics. Key reports covered the initial Naming Right committee meeting, updates from the Elementary Principal upon return from leave, and discussions on behavior policies. The High School Principal reported on teacher and parent surveys, AAA interviews, and plans for FFA Week and an upcoming resilience speaker. The Superintendent detailed concerns regarding the potential reversion of compensatory funding rules which could lead to significant revenue loss, and reported on the receipt of seven bids for the LTFM roof project, recommending the low bid from Laraway Roofing, with the next step being bond issuance. Action items included accepting several resignations, approving a new paraprofessional hire, approving revised professional services with Bray Associates-Architects Inc., approving the revised FY 2026 budget, and approving the low bid for the roof project.

The meeting included the election of officers, confirming the Chairperson, Vice Chair, Clerk, and Treasurer. Committee assignments for various areas such as Riverbend, CED, Vocational Programs, and Negotiations were approved. Reports were provided, noting a positive outcome for the winter band and choir concert and updates on teacher evaluations and goal setting in the Elementary School, including the creation of a new Behavior Team. The High School Principal reported on semester one wrap-up activities and upcoming course registration materials. The Superintendent's report covered the SEU Coaching search, building and grounds updates including planned replacements for the HS Gym Floor and roof bids, and personnel updates. Action items included approving a lane change request, accepting a substantial donation to the SE FFA, and approving the resignation of the head football coach, as well as approving a long-term substitute for the Elementary Social Worker position.