Mary McNelis

The work session included a presentation on the Family and Community Engagement Specialists program, a review of the stakeholder survey process and its results, and an update regarding the McKinley project.

The board meeting included reports from student representatives, the Faribault Area Learning Center, the District Advisory Committee, and the Finance Committee. Key actions taken involved the approval of multiple board policies, including revisions concerning workload limits for special education teachers, testing accommodations, protection of pupil records, immunization requirements, student achievement assessment, and the use of artificial intelligence. The board also approved gift and donation resolutions, membership in the Minnesota State High School League, extended trip requests, and school calendars for 2026-2027 and 2027-2028. Additionally, the board approved the K-5 English Language Arts curriculum, the nonrenewal of probationary teachers, and contracts for multi-function printer services, a phone system, a food service management company, and agreements with Nerstrand Elementary Charter School. The final budget for FY2026 was also approved.

This Local Literacy Plan for Faribault Public School District outlines strategies to achieve grade-level reading for all students, including multilingual learners and those with special education needs, in alignment with the Minnesota READ Act. Key focus areas include comprehensive K-12 literacy screening, data-based decision-making for instruction and intervention, parent notification and engagement, the selection and implementation of evidence-based core curricular resources and intervention programs, professional development, and the robust application of a Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS). The plan aims to foster continuous improvement in literacy outcomes, reduce achievement gaps, and enhance family involvement.

The board meeting included a review of school board policies, including discussions on grant procurement, energy efficiency, and crisis management. The finance committee presented reports covering a student device lease proposal, property and casualty insurance renewals, food service contracts, and the adopted budget for the upcoming year, which noted projected enrollment declines and future budget cuts. Additionally, members shared reflections on various student graduations and district milestones, such as the digital archiving of yearbooks and the introduction of summer meal programs.

The Policy Committee meeting involved a review of several district policies. Discussions included the vending machine policy, crisis management protocols, and notification procedures for active shooter drills. Amendments were made to the crisis management policy to clarify the availability of safety procedures at the building level. Additionally, the committee reviewed the capital projects policy, energy efficiency policy, family and medical leave policy, and the policy regarding the use and reproduction of copyrighted materials.