First days of school occur this week for Owatonna students! Thank you, teachers and staff, for your hard work and preparations! A few upcoming dates to be aware of:

Coffee with the Superintendent, 9/27/2024, 8:30-9:30am at the new school district office at 333 E. School Street.

School Board Candidate Forum at the Owatonna Country Club, 9/30/2024, 12-1:30pm with optional lunch starting at 11:30 ($16 lunch fee). Please register: https://chamber.owatonna.org/events/details/2024-school-board-candidate-forum-35480. These are the 8 candidates running for 3 seats on the board: https://www.isd761.org/our-district/school-board/election-information

Passes for high school sports and activities can be purchased online: https://www.owatonnaactivities.com/ticketing. We have a home varsity football game this Friday September 6, 2024 at 7pm. I’ll be working in the concession stand, stop by and say hi!

In follow up to my recent post regarding the Biden administration’s new interpretation of Title IX, I have emailed several board members, district staff, and our superintendent, requesting a discussion on this topic and the possible changes to policy 522 (5 separate requests) and have yet to receive a reply. I will update when I have more information.

Next school board meeting: September 9, 2024, 5:30pm, at the City Chambers board room.

Have a great week! Soli Deo Gloria.

Our regular meeting began on time at 5:30pm at the City Chambers boardroom. After the Pledge of Allegiance and approval of the agenda, Superintendent Elstad began with Mission Moment. He recognized the beginning of our teacher apprenticeship program with 6 participants who will become special education teachers through this program. Each participant will rotate through an elementary school, our middle school and the high school. Elstad commended Chris Picha for many hours spent developing this program, with assistance by Sarah Knudsen. This is a great program for our students, participants and schools.

No comments for Public Forum.

The enrollment report is reviewed for the coming year. We have Washington Elementary’s Kindergarten average class size (22.33) that is 3+ students more than the school board’s recommended class size of 19 for kindergarten. In the current report, we have eight class sizes (averages for the class and school) that are above the recommended class size, but not at the flagged 3+ number. The enrollment report can be viewed through the district website, school board meeting agenda and attachments. Hopefully, as the next few years move forward and the recent predicted enrollments (estimated through the boundary redesign teams) become a reality, the administration will balance out these numbers that are still not at goal.

During Board Forum, Chair Sebring made note that our October work session will be moved to Tuesday, October 15th at the district office, instead of the usual Monday schedule. He also reviewed the Superintendent Evaluation summary and read the summary points aloud, which I summarized in a recent blogpost. No further comments from board members are given at this meeting.

No updates from the facilities committee. The policy committee members Tim Jensen and Jolayne Mohs note that the policy updates for review at this meeting mainly reflect the many legislative changes from the last year. We have 13 policies on our agenda to review for a “first reading.” Given the history of previous policy reviews (each policy should be reviewed every 3 years, unless legislative changes require immediate updates), I asked if we could limit the number of policies to review for one meeting. The board receives the meeting agendas and attachments on the Thursday before each Monday meeting. This makes it challenging when there are 13+ policies and multiple pages in each policy. However, Mrs. Mohs noted that the policy committee reviews policies as they are presented to them, and the process makes this unpredictable for all of us. Mr. Jensen noted that the changes to each policy are noted by the words/phrases crossed out and the new language listed. However, rather than just review the changes in these policies, I’d like to review the whole policy to determine if it’s written to support how we desire Owatonna schools to function best for our students at this time.

Policies presented to the board for a “first reading” and discussion include: 421 Gifts to the District, 506 Student Discipline, 507 Corporal Punishment and Prone Restraint, 509 Enrollment of Nonresident Students, 513 Student Promotion Retention and Program Design, 524 Electronic Technologies Policy, 533 Wellness, 616 School District System Accountability, 703 Annual Audit, 750 Post-Issuance Debt Compliance, 802 Disposition of Obsolete Equipment and Material, 809 Naming Rights, 904 Distribution of Materials on School District Property by Nonschool Persons.

I asked about policy 616 based on great questions I received from an Owatonna resident and parent. These questions involve concerns about the policy 616 changes in how our curriculum is developed and yearly progress is reported (November will bring a school board retreat for district data review in addition to the annual Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness presentation–previously this was called the World’s Best Workforce). Another question focused on the District Curriculum Advisory Committee and how members are chosen (by application, and the chosen members will follow the policy guidelines when feasible–per Elstad). Also, one of the changes in policy 616 notes that the advisory committee will make recommendations to administration and no longer to the school board. I questioned this because MN Statute states that the Duties of the Board include: to superintend and manage the schools of the district. If the school board is ultimately accountable for the outcomes of the district (our children’s academic ability to be “college, career, and life ready” at graduation), then it is important for us to be aware of what our curriculum process involves and how it is changing to improve our outcome data. I ended the subject discussion by  stating that it seems to me that there is a gap in what information presented to the board and the public about the curriculum decisions, development, and associated outcome data. Despite 2 of our board members being on the curriculum advisory committee as Elstad pointed out at the meeting, there are still a lot of questions as evidenced by the questions I have, but also those that I received by other parents regarding policy 616.

Elstad has stated in other meetings with me that we can’t assume motive in others when we disagree or question something or someone. In essence, we need to keep an open mind and ask questions before making assumptions, passing judgement or having negative opinions. During this meeting, know that I heard the huff and expletive coming from someone attending the meeting. Know that I understand my questions seem very annoying to some people present at the meetings. However, please don’t assume my motive is negative. I seek to understand a process that I don’t understand. We need to be able to ask questions, without judgement or assumed motive, when we need more information, don’t understand something, or just have a concern.

Superintendent Elstad also gave an Administrative Report including important dates for the beginning of this school year. He noted that there are 8 candidates for 3 school board seats in the upcoming November election. There will be one candidate forum at the Country Club and possibly another, soon to be announced.

The board approved, in consent agenda, minutes from the July 15, 2024 meeting, the disbursement report, and the personnel report.

Separate votes were taken, all passed 6-0 including:

1. Extended trip request for the Owatonna FFA to attend the National FFA Convention in Indianapolis in October.
2. The Truth in Taxation hearing scheduled for December 9, 2024 at 6pm with formal approval of the tax levy.
3. Adult breakfast price increase of $0.15, bringing the cost to $2.40. Adult lunch price will remain the same. Students will still receive free breakfast and lunch for the second year since passed by legislation.
4. Gifts to the District: many generous community donors gave money for Owatonna’s Football Homecoming which will take place on October 4, 2024. Also noted is the donation of 700+ backpacks from CostCo. Thank you!

Meeting adjourned.

Enjoy the smiles, new crayons, and exciting moments in the weeks to come that occur with the beginning of a new school year!

Soli Deo Gloria!

Immediately following the school board retreat, we started our usual work session, still located at the new district office building, 333 E. School Street. Since we began the retreat 2.5 hours earlier with the pledge of allegiance, we did not repeat it at this time.

Chair Sebring began the session with the summary results of Superintendent Elstad’s annual evaluation. The questions on the evaluation were divided into 4 categories which are the district’s strategic directions:

1. 21st Century Learners–effective communication and engagement with community partners, while continuing to work on communication with students and parents.
2. Equity–strives toward Inspiring Excellence. Every Learner. Every Day. Continue to work on public communication.
3. High Quality Teaching and Learning–high quality administrative staff with the vision to recruit and retain high quality teaching staff with ongoing work to ensure adequate funding for staff professional development.
4. Safe and Caring Community–maintains visibility and presence in all schools, while continuing to use survey data to ensure safe schools.

The Transportation Safety Advisory Committee has met once already and will plan to meet about 4 times yearly. Due to student safety concerns at a few busy intersections, the district has posted 2 positions for adult crossing guards. Two intersections will have the adult guards present for just one hour in the mornings and one hour in the afternoons, Monday through Friday, each day that school is in session. This position will be funded by money from our Safe Schools levy. Elstad noted that he did contact law enforcement, but they were unable to assist the district with this need.

During board forum, I brought attention to a newspaper article I found in a stack of old papers while doing work on a craft project with children at Cedar Kids daycare. The article was dated 6/14/2017 and covered a school board work session at which the board reviewed goals for the new Superintendent Jeff Elstad!

Elstad noted that in November, we will have another retreat for a data review of the district which will hopefully assist us in determining how effective our policies are and if there are any changes needed to the budget, etc. In the fall, the district will give the Desired Daily Experiences survey to parents, students, and teachers, and in addition, will have more complete academic achievement data. November is also when we have heard the World’s Best Workforce annual presentation in the past. The presentation will occur in November again but under a new name: Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness (CACR). November 5, 2024 is election day and November 12, 2024 will be the work session which is on a Tuesday instead of the usual Monday.

Elstad also commended his talented leadership team and noted that Chris Picha, our director of Human Resources, and Sarah Knudson, our director of Special Services, successfully launched the first teacher apprenticeship last week.

Chair Sebring noted that all board members will be receiving a book that comes highly recommended by Superintendent Elstad called The Anxious Generation.

This fall we will have 3 new principals. Cassie Mitchell comes from experience in Lakeville and Minneapolis to work at Wilson Elementary School. Justin Lange will be our new Lincoln principal, and Dr. Martina Wagner returns to Owatonna Public Schools from Red Wing to principal the ALC.

The first day of school for Owatonna students will be the week of September 3, 2024 but the date varies depending on the school. Please check the district website for information and complete the annual family update.

This has been a busy week!

Soli Deo Gloria!

On August 12, 2024, our retreat was held at the new district office building at 333 E. School Street. As last August, the school board had a planned retreat this August titled by Chair Sebring as Blue Sky Thinking. In addition to all school board members and Superintendent Elstad in attendance, our OMS principal Mrs. Mattson, our director of teaching and learning, Mrs. Sullivan, and our director of special services, Ms. Knudson, were also present. The discussion revolved around the concept asking, “What do we want our graduates to be able to know and do when they cross the stage to get their diploma?” My answer: our students need to be able to read, write and speak well, they need to know concepts in math and science, as well as problem solving skills and how to treat one another with respect and kindness. Many agreed with this, and the suggestions broadened to include characteristics like grit and determination, resilience, critical thinking skills, and the ability to learn how to learn. One member noted that students should know that they have someone at school who cares about them and is a safe person. We discussed our school vision as it states “…all students are college, career, and life ready.” Questions were asked, such as should it be simpler, “all students are future ready” knowing that some students will not see college in their future (However, I thought that our career pathways program was already helping students choose options that include college OR career. After all, they can’t all be YouTubers). One participant felt that we were too focused on “white, middle-class norms,” and an example was given noting that if a child wakes up at home and the power is turned off, then that child will struggle at school that day. However, I challenged the concept of “white middle-class norms” and stated that I believe ALL parents want their children to be able to read, write, do math, problem solve, etc. While some children will have more trials and stressors than others, all children are going to have a difficult day or week at times, regardless of their skin color or ethnicity or socioeconomic class. There will always be tough days and circumstances for all children whether it be a family member with cancer, parents’ divorce or fighting, someone who is rude and mean (teasing or bullying), a lack of food or clean clothes in the home, a family limited by one car or no car, a parent with a disability, low-income level that puts added strain on the family. The list can go on and on. While we can and should help these students and families by providing resources that can help them, we still have to focus on education when they are in school. All of our schools have multiple staff members to assist students if needed such as the behavior interventionists, school counselors, school nurses, and social workers. I believe we can also give our Owatonna parents more credit than some of our board members and staff given them. Income level and ethnic differences do not mean that these children are not loved, or that they are not safe at home. There will be children of ALL colors, ethnicities, and at all income levels that are struggling or abused or hurting in some other way. I could go on with my thoughts, but I won’t at this time!

There was a suggestion to possibly have a listening/sharing session for parents and the community to share what their concerns might be (I brought this up in the past, but was told that our community members can speak at public forum and email/call us if they have concerns). Our new student representative, with his recent experiences and interest in government and history commented, “American youth have mistrust in government,” and he would like to consider education regarding government closer to the age of graduation when students will soon have voting rights (I like this idea!). I’d be interested to know why some of our students choose not to say the pledge of allegiance.

Three other topics were brought up for review and discussion. Earlier in the year, we heard a presentation from Mrs. Mattson about her experiences in Norway where the students have one hour of mandated outdoor play time each day, and their school day is only 8am to 1pm, August to June! Currently, our OMS students have an average of 10-12 minutes outside daily, if they choose to go outside during the lunch period. Mrs. Mattson states that she sees a disparity in parent supervision in that students are often allowed hours of unmonitored screen time on the internet (not at school), yet their time is otherwise micromanaged with play dates, sports, activities, and events. Very rarely these days do children have free time for creative play without screens, indoors or outdoors.

A second review was regarding The READ Act. Mrs. Julie Sullivan noted that they are working with Functional Phonics and Word Work which includes new curriculum and new training for many staff. Phase I training for K-5 and special education teachers will be completed by 6/1/2025, then phase II will begin. Several times over the last many months, I’ve heard from various people that The READ Act is one of the most important legislative changes in the last 10 years and they are expecting major improvements in reading. A personal thought from me… it’s interesting that they are already seeing great things with this curriculum and expecting great things for our students reading in the coming years by using this program and curriculum… yet I don’t believe that this curriculum has anything to do with Social Emotional Learning or Diversity, Equity and Inclusion programs. Great things will come because of great curriculum and teachers teaching!

The third and final topic was cut short due to lack of time. However, it was briefly noted that the concept of a possible 4-day school week and a 45/15 calendar (not sure what this means yet) is being explored… nothing serious, no plans in place, just research at this point.

The retreat concluded and the work session began, next post soon to follow!

As of August 1, 2024, the new federal Title IX interpretations and definitions are to be in effect for institutions across the United States. As a result, our school district policy 522 needs to be reviewed and possibly updated. The policy committee will be meeting on Monday August 19, 2024 to review this.

The school board had a 2.5 hour retreat and a work session on 8/12/2024 (those posts will follow soon!) at which time Title IX and the rules set by the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) were briefly discussed. Yesterday’s People’s Press, 8/15/2024, featured this discussion highlighting the concerns brought forth by board member Deborah Bandel. Title IX and MSHSL deserve our attention and further discussion.

As I mentioned at Monday’s meeting, the topic of Title IX has come with much controversy and debate.  Anytime we have new interpretations and new definitions of previously familiar words and laws, we need to consider what is lawful, fair and right.

Title IX was approved by congress and signed into law in 1972 with just a short 37-word statement, basically stating that there can be no discrimination on the basis of sex (referring to biological sex) in any organization receiving federal funds.  The original intent was to provide fairness and equality and protection for women in sports. The Biden administration has set forth rules for Title IX that redefine “sex” to include sexual orientation and any gender identity, as well as protections for pregnancy status and abortion rights. 

According to attorney Sarah Perry from the Heritage Foundation, there are a few reasons why the Biden administation’s new definitions for Title IX are not lawful and many states are trying to work through this. These are the main reasons to state that the new interpretation is unlawful:

1. Congress officially only authorized the original Title IX federal law, they have never formally authorized Biden’s new definition of sex and his interpretation. As I understand the recent Chevron ruling by the Supreme Court, institutions are required to follow the original federal ruling if there is any question or doubt regarding interpretation of the law. We must follow federal law first and foremost (as a Christian, however, God’s laws come first, then federal law), despite what rules an institution has set in place.

2. Given the first amendment and the right to free speech, no institution can compel speech (forcing the use of alternative names and pronouns)

3. The new interpretation for Title IX does not allow for due process to protect fairness, life, liberty and property, especially for the girls that are required to share bathrooms, hotel rooms, locker rooms, and share their competitive sport with a biological boy (even surgery and puberty blockers will never change the DNA of XY male to XX female.  This DNA is within every cell of the human body). This was Ms. Bandel’s primary concern that led to the discussion at last Monday’s work session.

4. Adding transgender students to their gender-identified team essentially violates the original Title IX rule which was meant to protect girls and women and give them equality (now equity is the common term) for competition and safety.

5. MSHSL, by requiring schools to allow transgender students to participate with the gendered team they identify with, also violates the original Title IX rule and should not be allowed to require this. I don’t understand how MN allows MSHSL to do this, and to be the only organization in MN that our students can have any meaningful organized competition with. While I don’t want to take away extracurriculars from our kids, had I known this before, I would have reconsidered my vote for MSHSL… I cannot vote for an organization that is violating federal law (and God’s law).

This is a link to just one example of how some states are struggling with the new interpretation of Title IX.  Plus, there are additional links at the bottom of the article that lead to other examples:

https://adfmedia.org/case/state-louisiana-v-us-department-education

Sarah Perry also noted that the federal government has never withheld funding from a school on this basis and if anyone chose to file a complaint, the process takes 6+ months, then the legal process can take another 6-9 months.  Therefore, taking our time to fully consider what Title IX means for our district and Minnesota and the implications of MSHSL rules seem a worthy cause. All school board members have each made an oath of office to uphold the US Constitution first and foremost and to speak on behalf of our constituents.  While I know that the district desires to prevent any lawsuit against it, ultimately, I believe that we all want our children to be safe and treated fairly.  

More to come…our district’s policy committee will be reviewing policy 522 on 8/19/2024 and will bring a revised policy to the board for review and approval. Please come to speak at public forum during our regular meetings on August 26, 2024 or September 23, 2024 if you’d like to share your thoughts on this topic to the board. Alternatively, you can email us anytime, our email addresses are on the district website.

Take care, be safe at the fair.

Soli Deo Gloria…forever.

July 15, 2024 was the only scheduled school board meeting for this month, as per usual for July and December each year. I was able to watch the video recording since I was not able to attend the meeting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPoNfC_0iII. Ms. Deborah Bandel and Superintendent Elstad were also absent for the meeting.

There were no comments for Public Forum.

During Board Forum, Chair Sebring noted that school board members should have received an evaluation form for the Superintendent, the same form we used last year for the annual evaluation. Results will be discussed at our August 12th board retreat.

Given Superintendent Elstad’s absence, there was no administrative report to review this month.

The consent agenda was approved including the meeting minutes from our regular meeting on 6/24/2024 and the personnel report.

Next, the board reviewed the Long-Term Facilities Maintenance Plan, which is a 10-year plan reviewed annually and submitted to the Minnesota Department of Education. Lori Volz and Bob Olson were present to review the information and answer any questions. As stated on the meeting’s agenda: Minnesota school districts applying for long-term facilities maintenance revenue must annually complete the application for Long-Term Facilities Maintenance Revenue and submit it to the Minnesota Department of Education.  To qualify for Long-term Maintenance Revenue, school districts must have a 10-year plan adopted by the school board and approved by the commissioner.  The Long-Term Maintenance Revenue Application – Ten-Year Expenditure is attached. (This can be reviewed by going to the district website and searching under Board Meetings, Agenda, and finding the attachment. The plan was approved by 5-0 vote. Lori noted that revenue for LTFM is based on enrollment, square footage of our buildings, and age of the buildings/equipment. Ms. Volz confirmed that, “prior to this time, the district was receiving about $2 million in revenues.” Because of the new high school, our funding will be about $1.8 million going forward.

The second vote was for the “Resolution Relating to $7,770,000 General Obligation Facilities Maintenance and School Building Bonds, Series 2025A.” The notice is copied here: NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Independent School District No. 761
(Owatonna Public Schools), Minnesota (the District) intends to issue its General Obligation Facilities Maintenance and School Building Bonds, Series 2025A (the Bonds) in the approximate principal amount of $7,770,000, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 123B.595, subdivision 5 and Chapter 475. A portion of the Bonds (approximately $5,800,000) will finance health and safety projects as described in the District’s ten-year facility plan (the Facility Plan). A portion of the Bonds (approximately $1,970,000) will finance the acquisition and betterment of school sites and facilities, as approved by the electors at a special election held on November 5, 2019. A copy of the Facility Plan will be on file with the District and available for public inspection at the District offices during regular business hours. The total amount of outstanding indebtedness of the District as of July 15, 2024 is $153,730,000. Any interested person may submit written comments relating to the Bonds or the projects to the District. The vote approved 5-0.

The third vote was for the 3-year transportation contract with the Owatonna Bus Company. Lori Volz explained that the contract includes the rates for the 2024-2025 school year, but the following 2 years will be negotiated in January 2025. She also noted that this is the first time the contract has been addressed in this way, but she believes that it will be more beneficial to the district rather than approving a set dollar amount for all 3 years at one time. Vote approved by 5-0 count.

The fourth vote approved 5-0 was for the Resolution Calling the General Election which allows the district to be included in the November election. As stated on the agenda, “The Secretary of State’s office sets very specific timelines for notifying the county auditor’s office, posting notices of elections, and publishing notices.  Attached is a resolution calling for the general election so that the election clerk is able to meet these deadlines.  Terms for these board members will be expiring after December: Deborah Bandel, Timothy Jensen, and Eric Schuster. The filing dates are July 30-August 13, 2024.” The filing fee for school board candidates is $2 and applications and payment can be done through Sarah at the new district office, 333 E. School Street.

The second reading and approval of policies are noted below. The policy committee members noted that the updates were mainly related to language and statutes, no major changes were made. Approved 5-0 for policies:
410 – Family and Medical Leave
416 – Drug, Alcohol and Cannabis Testing
506 – Student Discipline
507 – Corporal Punishment and Prone Restraint
510 – School Activities (review only – no recommended changes)
514 – Bullying Prohibition Policy

Lastly, gifts to the district are approved 5-0. As stated on the agenda, “Policy 706 establishes guidelines for the acceptance of gifts to the District.  As specified by Minnesota Statute 465.03, the School Board may accept a gift, grant, or property only by the adoption of a resolution approved by two-thirds of its members. Any gifts accepted of more than nominal value (more than $5), shall become property of the District (Policy 421).” The gifts are noted in the attachment. Thank you again to the ongoing generosity of the Owatonna community in supporting our students.

Meeting adjourned at 5:46pm! (I wonder if the meetings are shorter when I’m not there… 🙂

School supplies are now readily available in the stores…happy shopping everyone! If you have children in the Owatonna Public School system, watch your email for annual forms and updates for back-to-school preparations before the first day of school! The new district offices should now be open. Please reach out if you have any questions or concerns. If you need assistance with getting school supplies or school clothes, please check out Community Pathways, United Way, and South Central Human Relations Center.

Be safe. Be kind. Be helpful. Be respectful.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Our board meeting began per usual at 5:30pm at the city chambers board room. After the formal call to order, pledge of allegiance, and approval of tonight’s agenda, Mission Moment was presented by Superintendent Elstad. He recognized several OPS district retirees, noting their leadership, commitment, and passion for our students and schools. None of the retirees were present at the meeting as they are hopefully enjoying retirement! Congrats and best wishes to you all!

No comments for public forum. During board forum, I made note that I will be absent from the one school board meeting that is held in July.

The enrollment report is reviewed with no significant changes.

If you haven’t heard yet, here is the brief summary about the upcoming new school bond. Based on necessary facility maintenance updates and repairs, majority of which were unexpected for 2025, the school board will likely be approving a new bond of $7.7 million. However, most Owatonna citizens will not see a noticeable difference in annual taxes paid for this. Some will see a small decrease, some will see a small increase.

Here is my best explanation of the details of the bond and its financing at this time:

Matt Hammer from Ehlers financial advisors gave a presentation in follow up to the information given at our work session 2 weeks ago. This information included recommendations from SiteLogIQ (our Long Term Facilities Maintenance Fund planning tool) for necessary air quality updates to the HVAC systems at Owatonna Education Center and McKinley Elementary School. Additionally, the board was given information for financing these projects with considerations to minimize tax impact to Owatonna citizens.

The projects for 2025 include the new HVAC systems noted above ($5.3 million), fire alarm and suppression projects, and asbestos removal, totaling $5.8 million. Other needs include the OMS pool restoration, among a few other smaller projects listed on the chart given by SiteLogIQ. The total amount needed for 2025 Long Term Facility Maintenance is estimated to be $8.2 million. A new bond ($5.8 million), plus $1.97 million remaining authority as noted below, and the approximate $1 million LTFM funding in our preliminary 2024-2025 budget, will give us the needed funding, with some left for other or unexpected needs that come up.

It is noted that the 2019 election gave the district $112,000,000 in bond authority and $110,030,000 has been issued thus far. Therefore, the district is able to use the remaining $1.97 million for the upcoming project needs.

Combining the 2019 bond authority of $1.97 million with the new project needs of $5.8 million, the total new bond is $7.7 million for 16 years at 4.75%. Despite the new bond, the taxes paid by most citizens of Owatonna will actually decrease or just slightly increase. The estimated decrease is based on tax base growth, with projected 8% increase in home market values (average home value in Owatonna in 2023 was $250,000). New homes, new businesses, and home improvements offset taxes and will actually decrease the tax burden if your home value is $250,000 or less. If your home is valued at $300,000, up to $1 million, your estimated tax increase will be $1 up to $79 annually. Estimates for Agricultural Homestead and Non-Homestead property values up to $12,500 show an annual increase of <$0.50. The Homestead Market Value Exclusion will also result in a net decrease in property taxes. Commercial Industrial property valued $100,000 up to $1 million will have increases beginning at $10 and going up to $134 annually.

The estimated timeline for this, pending approval of certain projects by the MN Department of Education:

1. July 15, 2024 School board regular meeting with public forum: school board adopts Resolution of Intent approving issuance of bonds
2. September 23, 2024 School board regular meeting with public form: school board certifies preliminary levy for taxes payable 2025 (including facilities maintenance bonds)
3. Winter/Spring 2025 Bond closing date and issuance of funds

The presentation from Ehlers financial advisors and SiteLogIQ can be found on the district website/school board/agenda/attachments on 6/10/2024 and 6/24/2024.

I did my best to understand and explain this information, but please contact the school board or Superintendent Elstad with questions or concerns. Or, please come to any of the future regular school board meetings and speak at public forum. You need to come early and fill out a card before the meeting starts at 5:30 and then you will have 3 minutes to voice your opinions, concerns and questions during public forum. After the school board meeting, someone will reach out to you.

Other items reviewed included the 6/17/2024 policy committee meeting report, the 6/10/2024 work session report, and the first reading to review policies: 410 Family and Medical Leave Act, 416 Drug Alcohol and Cannabis testing, 506 Student Discipline, 507 Corporal Punishment and Prone Restraint, 510 School Activities, 514 Bullying Prohibition Policy. In light of the policies being reviewed, I asked about determining policy effectiveness and data that is available regarding incident reports for student discipline, bullying, substance use, etc. Superintendent Elstad noted that all incidents are reported to the MN Dept. of Education and an annual summary data report is received by the district. Our upcoming school board retreat in August will give us time to review a variety of data sets, including that from the MN Dept of Education.

Superintendent Elstad gave the administrative report, noting the district offices will be moving into the new space on School Street beginning June 26. There will be no district phone services beginning June 26, hopefully being restored on July 2, 2024. The district will have a voicemail system set in place with instructions if needed, otherwise it will be best to use district emails during this time. Staff will be working from home until the new offices are in working order. They expect the district to be back online with working computers in the new space on July 10, 2024. Also noted is summer school which is in full swing for June and July, then preparations for the new school year ramp up in August. Elstad also informally recognized an OHS student for her recent win of the girls golf state championship, a formal recognition is to come this fall!

The consent agenda was approved 5-0 and includes 5/28/2024 meeting minutes, the disbursement report, and the personnel report. No discussion amongst board members.

Several other votes were taken, all approved 5-0, with some discussion:

1. Indoor air quality projects at McKinley and OEC, pool restoration, and other long-term facilities maintenance priorities. This approval is for the scope of the project only and is not a commitment to funding or bond changes.
2. Casual worker pay schedule, mainly updated last year, with only a few updates this year.
3. 2024-2025 Preliminary budget; a formal presentation was given recently and a one page summary was reviewed for this meeting
4. 2024-2025 School board meeting schedule, with meetings to continue on the second and fourth Mondays each month and only one meeting in each of July and December.
5. Minnesota State High School League membership. As I noted last year, the MSHSL is the only option MN schools have for competitive sports and arts programs at this time. As part of this membership, one board member (Chair Sebring) and one school representative (Marc Achterkirch) is appointed to represent the high school and vote on matters as needed. Faculty are appointed to represent each area: Girls and Boys Sports (Marc Achterkirch), Speech (Marcia Anderson) and Music (Mr. Guenther). There is also an advisory committee to the district representatives that includes a board member (Chair Sebring), a faculty member (Tami Langlois), a parent (Pat Bogen), and a student (Blake Davison). There may be votes and decisions made by our representatives on behalf of the district; I mentioned that I would like to be included in this information and will contact the reps above about this.
6. Minnesota School Boards Association membership (fee $11,000). The policy committee works closely with MSBA for policy updates and development and MSBA gives the required and many optional trainings for new and existing board members, as well as gives an annual conference for school board members.
7. Schools Advocating for Fair Funding (previously Schools for Equity in Education) membership (fee $7000). SI Elstad commented that this organization helps to lobby at the state capitol for rural communities to receive necessary funding, also provides data and resources and professional development. This organization helped OPS receive the Ag Credit (admittedly, I am not too familiar with this credit, but Elstad and Weisenburger agreed that it has been very good for our school).
8. Policy revisions-second reading and approval: 709 Student Transportation Safety, 806 Crisis Management, 950 Public Data and Data Subject Requests. It is noted that public data requests that are to be taken off school grounds do need to be paid in advance by the requestor, otherwise the district absorbs the cost of data requests.
9. Resolution establishing dates for filing affidavits of Candidacy for the school board; remember to file at the new district office (333 E School St) beginning July 30th through August 13, 2024.
10. Gifts to the district, specifically recognizing Mayo Clinic for their $15,000 annual “installment” toward the career pathways program.

Lots of information! Thank you for reading and please keep in touch with questions or concerns. Take care.

Soli Deo Gloria.

The Commencement Ceremony was held for our 2024 graduates at the new Federated Stadium on June 7, 2024. Congratulations graduates!!!

Our work session began at 5:30pm at the chamber office. The first presentation was given by SiteLogIQ who the district has hired to assess the structural safety and working order of our district buildings and equipment. The assessment information is used to determine current needs, but also to determine future needs and long-term planning. This will aid in budgeting our Long-Term Facilities Maintenance Fund (LTFM). The presenter commented that overall our buildings are in “fantastic shape.” However, the ventilation assessments for McKinley and the Owatonna Education Center are showing high priority for needing updates (original equipment is from the 1980s). Our district will have its own MySiteIQ website to help track facility needs over many years to come. This presentation can be found on the district website and includes a chart showing the 10-year LTMF plan as given by SiteLogIQ: https://meetings.boardbook.org/Public/Agenda/1055?meeting=639589

Secondly, we heard a presentation from Ehlers Public Finance Advisors. My understanding of this information is currently rudimentary so I will be studying this in the next few weeks before the next board meeting. The presentation can be view through the district website using the link above. The take-away message from this information is that if we take advantage of a School Building Bond Ag Credit, to help pay for the updated HVAC systems needed, most homeowners in Owatonna will note a decrease in taxes. Others (commercial/industrial and agricultural homestead/non-homestead) will notice a slight increase (however the increase is lower than if the Bond Ag Credit is not used).

At the next regular board meeting on June 24th, the board will vote to approve the scope of the HVAC project (SiteLogIQ) and then the July 15th board meeting will likely include a vote to authorize the issuance of bonds. Questions are encouraged between now and then.

Lori Volz, finance director, then presented an overview of the Preliminary Budget for school year 2024-2025. She noted some highlights including the end of ESSR funds (covid funds given to schools). The general education fund formula was increased 4% by the recent legislation, but next year will only be 2%. The district will receive some funding to support all the new mandates for The READ Act but not as much as will be needed. Also noted are the pool project updates that have been delayed at this time due to the higher costs required for this. The end result as noted by Ms. Volz, is a 2.5 million dollar deficit that can be partially mitigated by spending down the Unassigned Fund Balance. This can be managed over the coming year, however further analysis will need to be done for future school years.

The Library Resource Reconsideration Form was brought back to the policy committee for review and now to the board to review and discuss. Along with Superintendent Elstad, the policy committee elected to remove the paragraph in the form which lists the estimated cost of the reconsideration process. They have also elected to remove the form from the Library Policy for the reason being that the form is determined to be managerial and not part of policy. The reconsideration form will only be used if the informal discussion of a library material requires further appeal. There was no further discussion on this matter.

Superintendent Elstad noted brief legislative decisions coming in the future including a re-evaluation of the library policy, the introduction of a new cell phone policy, and curriculum changes.

November 2024 brings a BIG election, including 3 school board seats! The filing period for becoming a school board candidate is July 30 – August 13, 2024. Pick up the form at the district office and pay a $2 filing fee. Check out the website: https://www.isd761.org/our-district/school-board/election-information and contact me for more information!

Soli Deo Gloria.

Due to Monday May 27th being Memorial Day, our regular meeting was held at the district office on Tuesday May 28th. Freedom is not free, and I am grateful for those soldiers and families that have made the ultimate sacrifice for the United States of America. I pray that one day we will again be united with gratitude for the sacrifices and our freedoms, and with pride for America. I will continue to say the Pledge of Allegiance, sing the national anthem with my hand on my heart, and teach my children to do the same.

Superintendent Elstad recognized Katie Coudron and Hollie Jeska during Mission Moment. Ms. Coudron was named Owatonna teacher of the year and Ms. Jeska was named southeast Minnesota assistant principal of the year. Thank you for you care and concern and hard work for our students!

No comments for public forum.

The enrollment report is reviewed. No significant changes, again noting that the kindergarten classes at Lincoln Elementary School are above the recommended number of students. Average class size is 22.25 and recommended class size is 19 students. This further reinforces why the attendance boundary lines needed adjustments. Overall, however, class sizes are declining. The numbers of students in each class listed here starts with our 12th grade class and ends with our kindergarten class: 397, 458, 444, 425, 344, 380, 337, 355, 365, 337, 367, 335, 283.

During board forum, all school board members made comments to our senior student representative as this was his last board meeting before graduation. He has been a valuable member of our board with thoughtful comments and questions. We will miss him, but wish him many blessings in his next adventure. In addition to his farewell, we were introduced to our next student representative who will join the board in August. He is currently a sophomore and it was great to meet him at this meeting.

Chair Sebring noted that during the facility committee meeting, there was a discussion about one of the buildings HVAC units that likely needs repair or replacement. He noted that there will be upcoming conversations for this. Vice Chair Weisenburger noted that there were no new updates from the policy or finance committee meetings this month. On May 15, 2024, I had a meeting with Chair Sebring, Vice Chair Weisenburger, and Superintendent Elstad about the previously approved new Library Policy and the reconsideration form that accompanies the policy. I was informed that any noncurricular classroom materials available for students during free reading class time come from the school library. Therefore, these materials are vetted by the librarians and follow the library policy. Classrooms should not have reading materials that are not part of the school’s library or curriculum. If you have concerns about any reading material in the schools, please contact the teacher or principal. I also presented a concern about the reconsideration form given to a parent recently that was not fully approved by the board. Therefore, the policy committee will review and edit this form, then bring it back to the board for review and approval in June.

The board received 3 policies for a first reading review: 709 Student Transportation Safety, 806 Crisis Management, 950 Public Data and Data Subject Requests. Please refer to the district website to reference these policies. There were no questions or discussion regarding these policies.

Superintendent Elstad gave the Administrative Report. He recognized Representative John Petersburg who was present at the meeting, stating that he’s never worked with a representative that’s worked as hard as he has for our community and our students. Representative Petersburg is retiring soon. Thank you for your dedication and work! In addition, Elstad noted that he will be giving a more detailed legislative update next month.

Lori Volz director of finance, and the finance team were also recognized for a recent award, “Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting.” Thank you, Ms. Volz and team, for high quality work on our challenging budget!

Elstad recognized our senior student as well, noting his diligence, thoughtful and conscientious work.

The consent agenda was approved including minutes from the previous 2 meetings, the April disbursement reports, and the personnel report.

Seven additional votes were approved by 7-0 vote:

1. Resolution relating to the termination and non-renewal of the teaching contract of probationary teachers (a separate form indicated the teachers this referred to).
2. New student school board representative (as noted above), previously selected through interviews with high school staff, the superintendent, chair and vice chair.
3. Policy revisions, second reading and approval: 618 Assessment of Student Achievement, 620 Credit for Learning, 621 Literacy and the READ Act, 624 Online Instruction, 630 Awards for Student Achievement
4. Reallocation of Compensatory Revenue for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year. Compensatory revenue is based on the free/reduced lunch student count and is funding to support educational needs of these students. The district is allowed to take 20% of this funding and move it to another school. With this approval, the district can take this funding and hire school counselors so every school in the district will have its own counselor.
5. Compensation and Benefits for Individual Cabinet Employees. The district has 6 employees in its leadership cabinet that are not part of any collective bargaining group. The board recently received the proposed salary and benefits package which was approved at this meeting.
6. Extended trip request for Spanish students to travel to Peru in 2025 through Education First tours. Details are yet to be determined, pending the number of students participating.
7. Gifts to the district, specifically several donations for the OHS Color Run organized by student group Thriving Minds. This group of students is the largest growing student organization at OHS with a goal to raise awareness of suicide and its prevention.

Lastly, our senior student noted the OHS Magnet student publication earned national recognition for the 15th year in a row for its excellence. Thank you Magnet students and Ms. Wagner!

Last day of school is June 5, 2024.

OHS Commencement June 7, 2024 at the new Federated Football Stadium, 7pm. Two empty chairs will be placed, and honorary degrees will be given for the 2024 graduates who passed away in 2021 and 2024. Peace and prayers for those families.

Congratulations 2024 graduates!

Soli Deo Gloria

Just a quick note before I post on last Monday’s board meeting.

First, to the family of Olivia Flores… there are no words. I am so very sorry and my heart breaks for you. Many prayers are lifted for you all. Please be in touch if I can do anything to help you. (ehedlund@isd761.org 651-216-9455)

In addition to this sad news was the request to have remembrance chairs at the graduation ceremony for both Olivia and Dylan (who passed away in 2021). As stated by Superintendent Elstad in the People’s Press article this week, the school board was not part of this process. Actually, I had no idea that students had made a request and presented a petition to Principal Kath until I read this in the newspaper. The board had received one email from a parent suggesting that a memorial chair honoring these students was included with the rest of the graduates. This is the only communication we had received indicating that there may be a concern or suggestions from the community.

There have been so many sad stories recently and many of us are hurting in some way. I take solace in knowing that this world in not my home and our trials are but for a time. King Jesus is my Savior and Heaven is my home, I hope that you know the same Savior and have this hope for eternity.

Secondly, there are rumors on social media. I have confirmed with Principal Kath that the students of Owatonna High School have not been told that they cannot wear clothing with the American flag. In addition, students are allowed to pray in school if desired (so long as it does not disrupt the classroom learning environment.) If parents and community members have concerns about something in the schools, please reach out to the teacher, principal, or Superintendent Elstad for verification and understanding.

I appreciate the kind words and support in chatting with some of you over the last several months.

Up next, the regular board meeting update.