September 8, 2022 Workshop Meeting
September 8, 2022 Workshop Meeting
1 hour 3 minutes
Agenda and Minutes
The purpose of this meeting is to consider the following:
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, September 8, 2022. The meeting was called to order by Chair Sharon Van Leer, at 6:01pm at the District Service Center, 7362 East Point Douglas Road South, Cottage Grove, MN 55016. School Board Members present: Melinda Dols, Pat Driscoll, Louise Hinz, Simi Patnaik, Katie Schwartz and Sharon Van Leer. Eric Tessmer was absent. Superintendent Julie Nielsen was present.
2.0 Pledge of Allegiance
3.0 Approval of Agenda: It was moved by Katie Schwartz to postpone the closed session until the October 6, 2022 meeting. This was seconded by Simi Patnaik. All in favor, none opposed, motion carried.
4.0 Workshop Items:
Connha Classon, Valley Crossing Elementary, Mike Moore, Liberty Ridge Elementary, Tony Mosser Woodbury Elementary & Ed Ross, Pullman Elementary
They shared the efforts to build community, climate and culture in each of their schools.
5.0 Information Items:
Dan Pyan, Director of Finance and Operations
Mr. Pyan shared information on the varying levies in the report and their purpose. This will return for approval at the September 22, 2022 meeting.
5.2 First Reading of Proposed Policy Changes
Julie Nielsen, Superintendent
There was no request public comment. These policies will return at the September 22, 2022 meeting for approval.
6.0 Superintendent and Board Member Reports:
Superintendent Nielsen reported on the excitement of the first day of school. Executive Cabinet members visited schools and students this week. She highlighted the welcome back event for staff on August 30th, the senior community member picnic at the DPC. Last night the City of Cottage Grove Council recognized Cheryl Jogger and Sue McKeown for their work in the community. Ms. Nielsen also noted the Bus driver shortage, strategic planning and LRFP. In upcoming months, we will be planning for listening sessions and a community survey with possible plan options after winter break.
Melinda Dols checked in with principals at her assigned schools. She attended the welcome event for staff, a MSBA webinar and 916 board meeting. Pat Driscoll highlighted the AMSD voting guide. Louise Hinz attended the welcome back event and has been seeing the 2022-23 theme of “The Power of One” at schools and attended the Senior Center event. Simi Patnaik also attended the staff welcome back event, noting how the speakers reminded her to hear all of the students and reach the needs of all students. She also attended a MSBA Webinar. Katie Schwartz attended the Pine Hill open house and noted the PHS girls soccer team has spaghetti dinner at River Oaks for a fundraiser. Sharon Van Leer attended the staff welcome back event, SoWashCo CARES Skoolie event and Woodbury Equity Racial Equity Committee meeting, which highlighted affordable housing in Woodbury.
7.0 Future Meeting Dates:
September 22, 2022 – School Board Business Meeting (DSC/6:00 p.m.)
October 6, 2022 - School Board Workshop Meeting (DSC/6:00 p.m.)
8.0 Closed Session: Pursuant to MN Statute 13D.05, subdivision 3(a) for the Superintendent’s evaluation was moved to the October 6, 2022 meeting.
9.0 Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 7:04pm.