Shane Gunderson

The board meeting included a student-led instructional celebration presentation. The board conducted a first reading of various policies, including those regarding instructional services, parental involvement, capital leases, staff workload, student privacy, and responsible AI use. Revisions to policies concerning personnel data, student attendance, and student surveys were approved. Key business matters addressed included the approval of donations, the purchase agreement for the Faribault Area Learning Center property, a change in auditing firms, health insurance premium rates for non-teacher employees, and administrative and personnel resolutions. Additionally, the 2026 School Board Member Handbook was reviewed and approved following several proposed amendments.

The work session included an informational update from the Superintendent regarding the Lincoln Principal position. Additionally, the board entered a closed session to discuss labor negotiation strategies concerning Local 70 Unions and Administrative Assistant Employees.

The board meeting included the recognition of outstanding student athletes in swimming, diving, basketball, and gymnastics, highlighting their achievements and character. Additionally, the Fable Area Learning Center director and students presented on the school's efforts to expand academic and social opportunities, such as incorporating symposiums for core credit, project-based learning like 3D printing and video production, and future site developments including a greenhouse.

The council discussed the review of SMART goals and developed programming plans for the upcoming year, specifically focusing on reading hours for elementary students, educational field trips, marketing strategies to increase youth engagement, and the creation of a milestone graduation ceremony. Furthermore, the council reviewed logo designs for the organization, coordinated community events including the John Knife Sterner event, scheduled final Drum and Dance events, and prepared for the South of The River Powwow.

The council discussed the transition of the NAPAC coordinator position and reviewed a presentation previously delivered to the school board regarding non-compliance. Members conceptualized SMART goals, focusing on family engagement through virtual platforms, advertising strategies, and fostering cultural connections among students across different grade levels. Additionally, the council addressed professional development opportunities for staff related to Native American culture and evaluated upcoming community events, including logo creation, drum and dance activities, a powwow, and the John Knife Sterner event.