Larimore School District 44

The committee reviewed health insurance options for the upcoming school year due to rising costs, recommending the retention of the current plan while exploring alternatives for future years. Discussions also covered personnel updates, including the resignation of the head boys' basketball coach. The committee recommended adding a paid assistant position for girls' wrestling to manage growing participation. Additionally, the meeting addressed facility-related matters, including a planned campaign to renovate Lien Field, an estimate for track resurfacing, and the scheduled application of graphics to a newly delivered activity bus.

The committee discussed various summer facility and maintenance projects, including the hiring of mowers and painters and the review of the building fund balance. Key agenda items included the approval of a bid from Tupa Electric for LED lighting conversion in the high school, repairs to the coal boiler, and the installation of door skin wraps funded by the Larimore Gaming Committee. The committee also considered flooring and locker upgrades for elementary classrooms, plumbing and fixture repairs for the high school gym locker rooms, and security improvements for main building entrances. Additionally, the committee discussed a future childcare center project and the necessity of budgeting for a new passenger bus, along with a status update on a new activity bus.

The committee discussed negotiations for certified and classified teacher salaries for the 2025-27 fiscal years and reviewed projected state foundation payments amidst concerns over declining enrollment. Extra-curricular topics included the approval of a wrestling co-op with Midway and Dakota Prairie, the status of the Lego League and Esports programs, and a review of cost estimates for the potential renovation and resurfacing of the school track.

The committee discussed the potential expansion of the preschool program by adding a second classroom for the upcoming school year. Key topics included enrollment projections, the strategy for recruiting out-of-district students to fill the second section, and the necessary tuition rates required to ensure financial viability. The committee also reviewed plans for a proposed childcare facility and discussed increasing tuition rates for the Extended School Program to align with regional standards. Ultimately, the committee recommended that the School Board approve the addition of a second preschool section.

The Larimore City Council and the Larimore School Board held a joint meeting to discuss stimulating growth for both the community and the school district. Key topics included addressing residential housing and childcare needs in Larimore, as well as promoting the city and school district. A joint subcommittee was formed to prioritize goals and develop a strategic plan.