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   Board Chair Marc Ruyak began the regular meeting held Wednesday, June 10 by highlighting donations from the following: Dan Rogers $25 for band; Bill and Stacey Wake $100 for high school leadership; David and Sharon Grouse $100 for the trap team and Emily/Outing/50 Lakes Lions Club $200 for prom.

   Business Manager, Julie Erpelding reported that the upcoming budget includes the purchase of a new school bus and the adoption of new science and social studies curriculum materials which highly contributes to the projected deficit of approximately $220,000 in the Fiscal Year 2027 operating budget. Additional Long-Term Facilities Maintenance (LTFM) projects are also planned for the coming year. 

   Elementary Principal Janessa Green shared encouraging student academic growth data, highlighting strong reading gains among students in grades second through fifth. According to assessment results, 71% of students in those grades achieved at least one year’s growth in reading, while 56% met that benchmark in math.

   Green credited the district’s continued focus on literacy instruction and Functional Phonics for the gains, noting that students are showing increased confidence and enthusiasm for reading. While literacy will remain a priority, elementary staff plan to place additional emphasis on mathematics instruction next year.

   High School Principal Mary Yakibchuk reported that curriculum committees have completed reviews of new social studies and science materials which the board approved later in the meeting. She also highlighted successful end-of-the-year activities organized by student leaders and noted that major discipline incidents decreased by 33% compared to the previous year.

   Yakibchuk said the district is preparing to fill several teaching positions due to retirements and staff changes and will continue professional development efforts through STRIVE training and leadership planning this summer.

   Superintendent Mark Morrison provided updates on summer maintenance projects, including lighting upgrades and other facility improvements designed to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Morrison said early enrollment projections are encouraging, with the district expecting a slight increase in student enrollment next year if current trends continue.

   In other Board action:

   • Ruyak thanked Band Director Tristen Heller for a standout performance by the school band. 

   • Approved various agreements, contracts, proposals and quotes.

   • Approved the non-renewal of the contract with probationary teacher Kristen Panschyshyn effective the last day of the 2025-2026 school year.

   • Accepted an intent to retire from Ken Grabinski effective Oct. 1.

   The board has scheduled the following meetings: a work session, Wed., June 17 at 5:30 p.m. and the regular meeting, Wed., July 8 at 5:30 p.m. All meetings are held at Northland High School.

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