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   The school board received updates on the district’s financial outlook, student activities and academic planning during its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 11.

   Business Manager Julie Erpelding reported that the district’s current financial picture is trending slightly better than anticipated. Savings have been realized by hiring an in-house custodian rather than contracting services, along with reduced spending due to short staffing and careful budgeting.

“We’re probably looking at coming in about $100,000 better than expected,” Erpelding said. “We’ll still be in a deficit, but it will be less than what we originally projected.”

   Looking ahead to next year, early projections show the district could face a deficit in the range of $200,000 to $300,000, although it was noted many revenue figures have not yet been finalized. Compensatory funding is currently projected to decrease by about $60,000, though that number could still change as state funding is finalized. It was also suggested the district purchase a new school bus for approximately $133,000 rather than leasing one over a five-year period.

   High School Principal Mary Yakibchuk also shared updates on several recent and upcoming student learning opportunities outside the classroom. Tenth-grade students recently traveled to the Science Museum of Minnesota and attended a performance of “The Scottish Tragedy,” also know as Macbeth, at the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. Students were able to explore museum exhibits with minimal wait times and enjoyed the theatrical performance, which included a brief encounter with one of the actors following the show.

   Additional field trips are scheduled in the coming weeks. Eighth-grade students will tour the Boswell Energy Center and the Grand Rapids Energy Center to learn how fossil fuels are converted into electricity, while other students will travel to the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Yakibchuk said the trips will provide valuable real-world learning experiences and that it is exciting to see kids get to experience learning outside the classroom.

   Planning for the 2026-27 school year is also underway. A preliminary master schedule has been developed that includes expanded College in the Schools (CIS) offerings. Yakibchuk mentioned student interest surveys and course registration will help determine which elective courses will ultimately be offered.

   The district is also considering a change in how high school science courses are scheduled. Under the proposal, biology, chemistry and physics would rotate over a three-year cycle, allowing teachers to focus on fewer course preparations each year while still meeting state standards. 

   Yakibchuk also noted positive feedback from families who have recently transferred students into the district. Parents have praised the academic expectations and supportive school environment, while students have reported feeling welcomed by their peers.

   In an activities update, Band Director Tristen Heller reported that the senior high band received an “Excellent” rating at the Minnesota State High School League contest held recently in Crosby-Ironton. The rating marks a significant accomplishment for the program, which had not participated in the event since before the COVID-19 pandemic.

Enrollment in the senior high band has also been increasing, with participation growing from 11 students two years ago to 14 this year and projections of up to 19 students next year.

   The band program continues to expand its opportunities for students, including participation in honor band events and plans for future performance trips. The district is also exploring hosting a Music in the Park concert event at the city park gazebo.

   Superintendent Mark  Morrison also provided additional financial updates, noting that adjustments to the building’s heating settings have helped reduce energy costs this winter, saving the district thousands of dollars.

   Morrison also recognized several staff members who were recently honored by Sourcewell for their impact on students and colleagues. Those recognized included Stacey McKinney and Toni Gross at the elementary level and Abbie Newman and Denise Stefan at the high school.

   In other Board action:

   • Accepted donations from Willie Raines of $100 for Supermileage; $1,057 for K-5 technology from Arvig Enterprises Customers and $100 from Land O’ Lakes Marine for Prom.

   • Approved the 2026-2027 NECC Early Childhood Calendar.

   • Accepted the resignation of Jacob Trimble as Kitchen Helper effective Feb. 23.

   • Approved the hire of the following: Cortney Christensen as Track and Field Assistant Coach beginning the 2025-2026 season and Brittany McClellan as Yearbook Advisor beginning the 2025-2026 school year.

   The board’s next regular meeting will be Wednesday, Apr. 8 at 5:30 p.m. at Northland High School in Remer.

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