October 5, 2023 Workshop Meeting
October 5, 2023 Workshop Meeting
1 hour 58 minutes
Agenda and Minutes
1.0 Call to Order; Roll Call: Pursuant to due call and notice thereof, a meeting of the School Board of Independent School District 833, South Washington County, was held on Thursday, October 5, 2023. The meeting was called to order by Chair Sharon Van Leer, at 6:00pm at the District Service Center, 7362 East Point Douglas Road South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016. School Board Members present: Melinda Dols, Pat Driscoll, Simi Patnaik, Eric Tessmer (arrived at 6:02) and Sharon Van Leer. Louise Hinz and Katie Schwartz were absent. Superintendent Julie Nielsen was present.
2.0 Pledge of Allegiance
3.0 Approval of Agenda: It was moved by Melinda Dols, seconded by Simi Patnaik to approve the agenda. All in favor, none opposed, motion carried.
4.0 Workshop Items
4.1 Park and East Ridge High School Updates
Kristine Schaefer, Assistant Superintendent
Todd Herber from Park High School Principal highlighted the Guardian football helmets being used. And Student, Darius was chosen to represent Minnesota in Washington DC at the Boys Nation Program. Jim Smokrovich, East Ridge High School Principal shared information about bringing the school community together and created a mural for the school.
Julie Nielsen, Superintendent
Christine Wrobleski from TeamWorks led the board in a discussion about their 3 year board governance plan.
5.0 Information Items
5.1 Bond Information Campaign Update
Julie Nielsen, Superintendent
Superintendent Nielsen shared details of the questions on the ballot and their impact. as well as where to find additional information, the communication process and upcoming presentations.
Dan Pyan, Executive Director of Finance and Operations
Mr. Pyan shared the current forecast model and what assumptions were made to create the forecasted budget.
5.3 First Reading of Proposed Policy Changes
Julie Nielsen, Superintendent
Superintendent Nielsen shared the proposed changes. These policies will return on October 17, 2023 for approval. There was no public comment on the proposed changes.
6.0 Reports and Comments: Superintendent Julie Nielsen shared information on the academic awards at the high schools. She shared Executive Cabinet has been out at events, specifically referring to the football games last week. As a result of the rain delays last week, they are exploring options for follow up. The 2024-25 calendar will be out for a first reading on 16, 2023 with an approval scheduled for December 14, 2023. Melinda Dols attended the policy review committee, 916 board meeting and a 916 board retreat. Pat Driscoll attended BrightWorks (former Metro ECSU) meeting and highlighted fall professional development. Simi Patnaik attended the policy review committee, CFAC and DEI parent advisory. Eric Tessmer the AMSD board meeting. Sharon Van Leer attended the City of Woodbury Council Meeting.
7.0 Future Meeting Dates:
TUESDAY, October 17, 2023 – School Board Business Meeting (DSC/6:00 p.m.)
November 2, 2023 - School Board Workshop Meeting (DSC/6:00 p.m.)
8.0 Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:58 pm.