Good evening. I'd like to call this meeting to order. This is Independent School District 8:32. This is a special organizational meeting for the Mameidi School Board on Monday, January 5th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. Please rise and join
me for the Pledge of >> Allegiance. to the >> for it stands one nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all. >> Roll call of attendance.
>> Done. >> Approval of the agenda. Do I have a motion? >> So moved. >> Moved by Director Peterson, seconded by Director Rean. Any discussion? All those in favor favor say I. >> I. Those opposed. Motion carries.
Approval of the consent agenda. >> Moved by Director Domen. >> Second. >> Seconded by Director Peterson. Any discussion. All those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. >> I. >> Those opposed. Motion carries.
Now for the reason we're here tonight, organizational matters. Uh we will start with our election of officers. Um, and then we'll talk about the appointments that we all discussed. As
everyone knows, we um sent in to Barb and Leslie and me uh what we're interested in doing. There wasn't much change um other than with officers. I have gladly served as chair for four years. And I would like to nominate a
slate so um we can have some new leadership. I elect my my the slate I'd like to um make a motion to move is Kelly as chair, Drew
as vice chair, and Ryan as treasurer. Actually, I should say Drew would be vice chair, clerk because by state law, we have to have a clerk. So, um is there any >> that's a motion? >> So, that's my motion. I move moved by
Stout. Uh, is there a second? >> Second. >> Second by director Domen. Is there discussion? >> Okay. >> Great idea. >> Okay. Well, I appreciate everyone um all your support as I have been chair. I'm
very happy to pass the baton or the gavl so it is uh to Kelly and I I really think all of you will do a great job. So, with that, I uh all those in favor say I. >> I. >> I. Those opposed? Motion carries.
>> And with that, I thank you. >> Um, okay. So, next we're going to move to item 6B, which is consideration of board member appointments. And Barb, am I going to turn this to you
on on that or are we gonna just are we >> I think I'm sorry. Let me I'm trying to Is that attached in here? it up if you want it. Um, oh, the draft. There it is. I'm sorry. Here. I'm coming. I'm coming.
Okay. So, I c I certainly can. Um I can just give the overview again that um Stacy mentioned that um when you submitted your um areas of interest, it was pretty much the same um continuing in the same positions as you have been.
Um and so you'll see them listed there. There's not much change. The one question that came up um from a board member really had to do with um during the retreat just kind of a question about those um committees that are not
typical board committees and uh whether or not we wanted to look at those as um committees that we want to have board representation on and we want to continue. Um I don't know does anyone want to speak to that at all or want me to kind of
How can I help with this conversation? >> I I mean I think it we talked about or we talked about the potential of having some representation being sent forward to the meetings rather than having a board member present. Do you want to expand on that? >> Sure. So the f So these are the committees. We have a number of
committees where we need board representation. Some are are specifically board um committees. Others are ones like for example May bright works um 916 um governing board. Those all require a board member, but um
uh for example, the community education advisory committee does not require a board member. Um the elementary PTO does not. Uh the advanced academic parent group does not. And so those are and special education advisory committee does not. Those are ones that board
members have um just I think it just kind of happened over time that we had board members start attending those. And so the question was um is it a good idea to just have board represent have somebody maybe appointed to that uh
committee and then go when they are asked to go and represent the board at those committees instead of going to every board meeting and then our um directors and administrators can give you kind of a summary of what happened. So that was one of the conversations we
had. Um yeah, I I guess I would add on to that that obviously the the governing board assignments there, we have very little change on the proposed for 2026. The only change listed there would be Drew would be taking my place as representing
for May. Otherwise, it looks like everything is staying the same. The discussion is maybe more around the advisory committees and that again it was brought up to maybe have somebody assigned but only attend if asked or if
needed. Otherwise there'd be a statement brought forward by either Barb or somebody from that committee group to bring to our board meetings when necessary. So yeah, the directors could report. Donna, >> Madam Chair, um and if I understand it
correctly, in our packet, there's a proposed um assignments for those advisory committees. Correct. >> Right now there are Yes. >> Right. And um this kind of coincides with the
discussion you sent out with the notes. So, um yeah, I my personal opinion is I agree with the proposed um structure under in our packet here with those committees. >> One place we don't have an assignment is
the elementary PTO and the reason um we don't is because it it's difficult for board members to make that committee um because often they happen during the school day. Um I I will go to the elementary PTO and just kind of talk
about that with them. Um and just see what it is they would like from a board member um in in uh attending that meeting and how we might be able to to move forward there. It is not typical for a board member to sit on an
elementary meeting. So um but to to be asked to come and talk to them is different. >> Have a question. I realized this after this was all sent out. Uh we had talked previously about having more uh
uh relationships with the count the city councils. Um did where did that discussion go? I thought we might have a specific role, >> you know. So we had talked about that. I'll just if I could offer um we do have
that uh city leaders meeting and at that city leaders meeting we have gotten more um representation recently we've had more participation and so I do think and because we always have two board members attend that as well. I do think there's
an opportunity there to just continue to use that to reach out and make connections and maybe be more deliberate about the kinds of connections we want to make with the city. >> And then when you and I have attended those, we've reported back to the board
>> who's been there from what cities, what's been discussed. And so again, I've seen that group grow substantially over the last few years as well. there it's it is a different yeah it is I think there's I don't know there's more collaboration more
conversation because people have to know each other over time now that said there were some ways that we thought we might want to connect with our cities a little bit more specifically um it came up a lot during our facilities conversations
and how we can partner yeah so maybe part of it is being really specific about what those connections are during our city leaders. I don't know. That would be one suggestion, but it doesn't have to be the way you do it. >> Any other comments or suggestions based
on the board member appointments and the advisory committee? >> Just one comment. I guess I I'm supportive of the structure going forward here. Um it would be good if we were proactive with the groups. If we're not going to be attending the meetings, if we just let them know that, hey, so
and so is your representative. And if it's helpful to have like an introductory to set expectations that we're, you know, here to support them whatever they need just to have some dialogue going forward. That might be a a good way to transition to the new structure.
>> Okay. And so for these, if I can just also remind you that um the two that are advisory committees um that we would continue to have a board member um participate each time
was the district's advisory committee for curriculum, the curriculum advisory committee and also that calendar committee, the meet and confer. Um those two were ones that we we wanted to ensure that we had someone there at each
one of those meetings. So that was going to continue what we talked about, right? But the community ed advisory committee and the advanced academic parent group and the special education advisory, those would just be reported back. >> Those would be reported back unless you
were requested to come and attend the meeting. Madam Chair, could could um I'd ask could Jenny and Ryan could you I've never been I don't know what happens at the advanced academic and the special ed
but um obviously are you're supportive of this new structure respectively. >> Yeah. Um I go anyway >> for my kid. So it just But what about the special ed?
Um, >> I think Ryan is >> now I'll feel less if I can't go. I'll feel less pressure that I have to find one of you to go. >> Does that make sense? And I used to be on the PTO. That is a hard one to make.
>> I know that Drew struggled with that quite a bit with trying that 9:15 in the morning. And then to be honest, I did know Ryan went to the special place. >> Um they haven't met very frequently in the last year or so, but two years prior
to that they did. And I think it was good to get a sense of what was being discussed, make sure it align with their strategic plan, and it obviously it does. Um but it almost felt more just like an opportunity for parents of kids to
develop a relationship with each other, but also with like the specialized educators that are there to support them. >> That's the advanced academics too. It's parents >> talking to each other >> which is great but again I don't know how necessary. >> Thank you.
>> Well it looks like I mean moving forward this isn't something we vote on. Correct. This is just a consideration. So um you know we have this listed here. We had it ahead of time and if you have any further comments on this you know as time goes on I think we can always
address this again. But um I think we should move forward with just you know the groups that we identified and the other ones and give it a try. Um because we we've all talked about the commitments that we have um not only for our board meetings but the committees and things that we represent and we
probably go to just about everything and so it might be good to also hear a different voice too to have it reported back sometimes. I don't know just my thought. So, Director Donna, >> um I think on I think we do have a motion. We do have to >> Yeah, we do have to vote on this. Okay.
Well, then I guess we uh I'm looking for if somebody has a motion on the U board member appointments and the advisory committee. >> Make that motion. >> Second. Motion by director Donna, second by Director Peterson.
Any further discussion? All those in favor say I. I >> opposed. Motion carries. >> Okay. So, yes, that is item 6B. We'll move on to 6C, which is a board member
and officer compensation. This is part of our policy 202.1, school member or schoolboard member compensation. And that is um linked here in the um in the packet, the the board policy. And
you have you have established a board policy where um compensation shall be the average of the Northeast Metro 916 member district school boards. And so you um and so that's what uh we have in
here. We have that um that survey where we find out what the compensation is in every school district. Um and so the average for the chair um is $6,443
for the vice chair clerk is n 5,960 for the treasurer is 596 and directors 5,8005. And so that is the average of the um 916 districts. That's what your policy
states. And so, um, to go away from that, you would have to reestablish policy questions. And then I'm looking for a motion to approve the officer and board member compensation review of policy 2.21 or in
regard to 2.2 202.1 by director Peterson. Second by director Dolman. Any discussion. All those in favor say I. >> I. Opposed. Motion carries.
Next item we have the board member calendar for January and February. If you can take a peek under 6D. Um and if there's any questions you have, call outs you have for events on the calendar for January and February.
time to bring those up. >> Um Lesie, there's never been um backto back. They're usually only three times a year. Do you know why there's a January and a February? Okay. So, email Jen.
Jen. Okay. Other items on the January or February calendar. >> There's a copy in conversation, January 6, 89. Um, I also want to call out that the M
MSBA leadership conference is next week. Um, I don't know if anyone is able to attend that. Um, I wish that I was able to attend that. I will be out of town, but I know that that is falling next week. Is anyone attending? >> Okay.
>> And and Drew, I think Drew had to pull out because he had something else, but the three of us willing forward to what happens at that conference. I actually really appreciate that conference. It's a lot of great sharing and networking. Any other calls
for the calendar? All right, with that we'll move on to item seven discussion information items. We'll start with the first reading of policies. Um I asked so the one reading that we have for our first reading of uh policy
is all related to policy 902 um regarding uh use of school facilities and um this is a policy that's been reviewed by the policy committee and um because there are a number of changes um Kate Anderson director of community
education is just going to give you kind of the big picture of what was discussed. It was discussed in more detail of policy committee. But in general general uh we when we decided we needed to look at
this policy, we had probably two one policy but some appendies to it. Um there was a lot of duplicate language that we just wanted to consolidate. Um and we were also looking to update the policy with a little bit more efficiency in some of our procedures that we have
with um those renting the facilities especially our associations was really more of a consolidation. we didn't add additional um fees that I can or things like that >> there was some clarity that was um maybe
there were some practices that over time you've established with the your >> renters the people who use the facilities >> that you spelled out a little bit better in >> give a little bit more um in-depth explanation of um for sure like weather
related cancellations and things like that. So thank you. So, this being the first reading of these, does anyone have any questions regarding these policies? If you do have any questions, please let us know before the next reading um so
that Kate would be ready to um address. >> Thank you, Kate. Um next, moving on to item 7B, the Midi Steering Committee charge statement. Barb, that is you. >> Yeah, that is me. So, if you look um in your packet, I shared with you um a
draft of our a charge statement. And um this is similar to that's what our um architects called it. It was a charge statement, but it's very similar to when we did um the guiding change document. And I asked you to give us parameters. I
asked you to tell me your expectations of um our facilities process. Um and I did link that in here um the parameters and results so that you could remind yourself how it went last time. Um but
basically I'm uh we're looking for you to um either add to this if you'd like or question anything that's in here. But at our next meeting, we'd want you to um approve a ch charge statement that basically tells us your expert
expectations as a board for um the next steps in the process um our facilities process. So um the the goal the steering committee is going to be the group that oversees the process um and that's an administrative team and then also
working with um the professionals who are helping us with these projects. Um so what we have here is um oversee the design decisions to ensure that they best serve the school district's educational and facilities goals. adhere to the parameters and results
established by the board in 2024. Again, that was what we went through. We went through that process before we went forward with the referendum. Reflect the priorities of the communities of Madame Public Schools, are consistent with the school district strategic vision, are in alignment with
district facility standards, and achieve the goals outlined in the review and comment that we submitted. Um the steering committee also um needs to ensure that projects stay on schedule and budget. Um we are proposing that we are going to update the board facilities
committee every month. So that's how we would um this is our proposal for communication that we would have um presentations to the full school board um at the conclusion of the task force committee and at the end of design
development. but as we're going through this that we would have a group that we could call together and um report to every month. Um and with a smaller committee that would be easier to schedule and it would be easier to just kind of focus in on. So that's that's
what we're proposing there. Um and the idea here is to ensure that our projects meet design parameters as outlined in this chart with successful projects on time and on budget. Do you have any feedback for that?
>> Yes. One of those bullet points jumped out after we talked a month ago. Barb, the ensure projects stay on schedule and budget. Did you ever dig into that school district that passed their referendum, MD, signed off on it, did
all the stuff we did, and now are getting nickeled and dimed on. Oh, you need this, you need that. >> Yeah, I asked that question and I was told there there was um I I asked that question a long time back
when you asked me about it. I brought it up and it and I cannot remember anymore the exact answer I got, but it was um whatever is happening there was different than our situation. So, um MDE
signed off on our you >> mind if I share? Sure. Go ahead. >> Um, in a coffee and conversation, a a school spoke up and asked MSBA for help because they passed a facilities
referendum and then they started the construction and the builders said, "Oh, well, your firewall isn't right. Your sprinklers need to be redone. You're not up to code on this." And this school district now is facing $300,000 in added construction
costs that the builders are saying, "No, I have to do this, this, and this." And this school district, International Fall, is appealing to MDE and the state of Minnesota because MDE signed off on this construction costs in their plan. And now the builders are saying, "But
you need this, this, and this." So, because we had just passed the same referendum, I asked Barb, if if this is a potential problem liability for us that >> well I I mean I I don't know exactly what's going on in that district and
actually that was the first I think you had >> kept the district anonymous for me when we had done it before I'll I'll look to Tim I know we talked about this it's been a while we talked about it in terms of uh the construction manager and the role of the construction manager I don't
know is that something you can speak to side brief like in a big picture sort of way, I guess. I don't know. >> So, so what what happens is you're right, things come up and especially in a remodel because we don't know what's
behind a wall or above a ceiling sometimes. But, uh, bringing on a construction manager is going to help solve that because they'll start that process very early on and then we'll know more about any of the any of those types of conditions that come up and
then we'll adjust accordingly. And we also build contingency into that that's built into those budgets by W and the conceptual budgets. So we have contingency built in and we'll start that process with the construction manager early enough so that we'll
identify any of those challenges. >> And it seems to me like ongoing conversation in this steering committee and reporting back that there it doesn't seem like there should be major surprises. It should be ongoing conversation and you know planning and
communication, right? I again I don't know the situation you're talking about, Jenny, either, what the variables are that are behind that. Um, but we are going to do our best to make sure that we are planning forward. I would assume >> we'll have and Barb mentioned too, there'll be monthly updates to
facilities. We we'll be getting at least monthly updates, maybe even weekly updates from construction management, the architect as the the team goes through that. And again, there are always I mean there are always things that come up during construction, but remember we did do that significant
audit facilities audit um in 2022 2122 somewhere around there. Um so we do have a lot of good information right now. So I can't say that nothing will come up. I just I feel like we have a we
certainly have a plan for Yes. I actually just came across that book the other day that uh when we got that resource um um that was actually really really extensive when you don't have anything to do over Christmas break you look at facilities
>> do you yeah okay >> director Donna question >> um to also to Jenny's point Tim can you do you know the nature of kind of the contract that's going to be with the CM as far as are they going to be at are they going to be at risk or there going
to the guaranteed maximum price, those types of layers to protect the district. >> Yeah. So, we're Yeah. We're doing construction manager at risk delivery model so that they'll hold the contracts with the contractors. They'll hold those sub the subcontractors and they'll hold
the subcontractors responsible. Um, and the development of the guaranteed maximum pricing happens much further on. It it happens much later but we'll be getting updates on that as we go through you know schematic design conceptual
design you know and all the way through construction documents and that's when we'll have the guaranteed maximum pricing that will be developed. So to to Jenny's point, with that in place, something that comes up during the
construction phase, the the subcontractor or the contractor is at risk to to making up that difference, not the district. It's I falls probably didn't have this added layer. and you know and and there are
things that can be a certain magnitude that would be it would it you know and it you know but for us I I think I'm I'm I feel pretty good about where where we built in the contingencies and uh and being able to start that
process of kind of some of the destructive investigative methods that use just to find out what's there and then we have enough time to adjust. We're doing it early enough we'll have enough time to If if that's if that's
>> any other questions regarding the mameda steering committee charge statement that superintendent Duffren shared >> I do I'm sorry. >> Oh yeah. >> Who will make up the steering committee? Um it is um our uh facilities supervisor
Adam Mendon, director of finance or business director. Is that your title? Director of business services. I don't know. Um Tim Ericson. Um I'm on it. Um our um architect, our
construction manager will be part of that. Um and then also um director of community education um Kate Anderson gets involved in some of this. Um Erin Foresight also um but the main the main
steering committee members would be um Tim Adam me um and then architects construction manager just to keep it small. So >> not Justin at all with the bulk of the work. Well, he's going to be on a lot of
committees. So, the other part of this, you know, just to outline some more of what'll be happening is right now we are assembling task forces for each of the projects. We have a safety and security task force. Um, we'll have um the athletics
um task force. We have a task force for the innovation hub. I don't we keep calling it something different. We have a task force for the >> innovation zone has different meanings too. But anyway, so um there's the fine
arts uh group too. Um so we have different task forces and um our principal Justin Han needs to be part of a lot of those because he's um and so we've chosen to have him as in the in those uh design groups as opposed to the
overall steering. Like I said, because um community education and um athletics and activities and the high school are all be part of a lot of the communication.
Okay. >> Comments or questions? >> All right. Um item 7 C is copy and conversation and you have um >> yeah we have we have dates just to to consider. So um if you recall our
engagement strategy in the fall was really to go u was more related to the referendum. So, the board had a lot of engagements out in the community leading up to the referendum and um one of the ways that you've engaged in the past is
through coffee and conversation and so um we're recommending getting those started again this spring. Um and so we have some dates that we're proposing in there and uh and then we can also just talk a little bit. I know we don't
always have a big turnout for coffee and conversation, but um being able to offer it to uh the community is we still want to make sure we have that opportunity. And so coffee and conversation for um
those watching at home is um our it's an opportunity for community members to have conversations with board members um in a different forum because uh at a at a board meeting when we have comments to
the board the board can't respond but in our coffee and conversation we have just a few representatives from the board. um somebody can come in and say I have this topic I want to discuss and they can sit down and have a conversation with board member and so that's one opportunity to
have have that kind of back and forth conversation. So at any rate um we have these dates and we're just putting them out there as a starting point. We know it's difficult to get you scheduled. So and the member attending actually those
are the people who are um on the committee that meets that day I think right am I right about that? Yeah. So, Ryan, Kelly, and Drew have a facilities meeting on February 23rd. So, we could do it
um right before then and they would be here for facilities anyway. So, maybe that's a good idea if that's easiest, but 4:30 we know is difficult sometimes for you as well. Um we also um put 7:30 as and again we
just put these all on on dates when we already have meetings anyway. So looking for feedback start with I think the coffee and conversations are a great opportunity for our community to come in and I would
love to see more community members come in. So, if anyone is watching at home, um you know, those are really like like Superintendent Duffren said, just an opportunity for conversation, ask questions, and I think they're really valuable. Um so, I am definitely in
favor of continuing the coffee and conversations. I struggle a little bit with doing them early in the morning and then we have a maybe a 5:30 meeting because then that's kind of cutting to me feels like cutting the workday on both ends. But um so I would be more in favor of the 4:30 right before those
facility or policy meets. But that's just my feedback and I'm just one of you know a bunch of us here. So looking for your feedback as to how you feel about copying conversations andor the timing. Peterson,
>> I like that we offer them. Even if no one comes, we can say we tried and we were here and ready to talk and be open and in front of the community and just I leave for work at 7:30. >> Any other thoughts? Director St.
>> I agree. I think it's important that we continue to have them and I liked all the dates that were offered. I agree that 7:30 is a bit tougher. Um, and I would be willing if there's, you know,
other dates that that people think of in terms of they align with an event going on in the community, I I would be open to that, too. It doesn't have to align with a Monday meeting for for my purposes. everything that's been said. I think we're all in alignment there. Timing
wise, I don't have a huge preference. I think the 430 does make sense. Um, but also I think we all agree that we'd love more. So, if there's a time to attend, I'd be supportive of that.
Um, and just personally, if I can help I'm good. >> I mean, >> what's wrong with coffee? You're drinking. >> Um, so I heard 4:30 generally speaking. Um, do you want to just schedule them
for now? February 23rd, April 27th at 4:30 and start there. And then if we see other opportunities when we hear that, you know, if more people are interested in um additional times, we could look at
um look at other events that are happening in the community to your point and see if we can couple it with that. Um are you okay with talking about a certain dialogue? Are we ready to Yeah. You ready to talk about that? Okay. So,
the other thing that we've done in the past, um, if you recall, we've done what we we call dessert and dialogue, similar to coffee and conversation, but different. And this one, um, we've done, um, we've done around a topic. So, we
we'd have a topic, we'd invite people to come and talk specifically about that topic, and have the roundt discussions that are facilitated to get input from the community. We most recently did it around our portrait of a graduate if you recall and that's how we that's how we
developed our portrait of a graduate. Um one of the topics that the board has talked about in the past and the district is also working on is around AI. And so one of our thoughts was to have a dessert and dialogue and specifically invite people in who could
give us insight into um our what our students need around um AI, understanding AI in the workplace um and do a a topic around that to help us with
where we go next with um AI use in in schools with our staff and with our students. It's an area our student my student cabinet is very interested in as well. So, I would imagine they will be part of um facilitating. They've brought
it up as something that they would like um the district to pursue and um and be and they want to be part of the solution and they talked about it specifically around how it can benefit them, but also they they were aware of needing need for
guard rails. So, just so you know, they've been they had some good conversation about that one time. Anyway, so I'm offering that as an idea for a dessert and dialogue topic this spring. So, yeah, I have one thing here on that. I would like to say that in my day job,
right? I think you all know that I work a lot with technology and I don't care what topic we offer, but if you include AI in it, the room is filled. So, I would think that like I was I my wondering is could you possibly help us with what's the messaging we're
going to provide around AI? I would love to know that. And then second of all, our coffee and conversation, we struggle with attendance. I think we may potentially struggle with the opposite issue. I think it'd be a great thing, a great topic. It's something that's everywhere in business and education and everyone's asking questions and there's
a lot of just myth busting as well around what it is and what it isn't. So, I'm excited about the conversation around AI um because I think people are forming their own opinions without, you know, maybe knowing a lot of things. So, I think that the information is super powerful. >> I think in this one, thanks for bringing
that up. I think in this one I would recommend that we start with >> looking for people who could teach us something >> about AI use which is different maybe than we would take that then and we would use it to go back to inform people
about it you know about how we would use AI. So to your myth busting recommendation I think there are two different um engagement sessions that we could hold. The first one would be helping us develop um what it is that
we're going to do beyond what we already know >> like educating and information and >> because as educators we've been through we've had professional development. We've developed our own ideas about what it looks like but this would be an opportunity to learn from our community.
We're out in a different world than education. what are the other things that we are not thinking of that we need to learn more about so that we can incorporate that into what we do with students and but then there's the other part of this that you're talking about is then educating our community with
what it is so I'd say it's two different things I'm looking um so our director of communications is over here and I don't know if you have anything else you wanted to add to this conversation at this point if if you have anything else you wanted to
bring That was a great summary. I guess what I would just add and we've talked about this before when I've talked to the board about engagement is it's really important to offer a lot of different types of opportunities. So the coffee, the Zephr learning showcase, um dessert and dialogue and thinking about that we
offer a lot of different opportunities to engage and build trust and partnership with our community. um just like Superintendent Duffren shared um how we would look at this dessert and dialogue because we've done a couple different variations over the years. So, this one again would be really focused
on um thinking about people that are outside of our expertise in education that can give us advice and experience on what's happening in the workplace or what's happening in the military um or in colleges so that we can use that again to support our educators so that
they can support our students and that our students can be um ready um for their future. I would also tie in that um part of what we're doing a lot of work in this year is um launching and really starting to um discuss our
portrait of a graduate and just as a you know piece of that that ethical um piece of our portrait of a graduate. The language that is in there is that utilizes artificial intelligence and technology responsibly while staying current on trends for success. So for us to take that and now say okay we're
going to go out to um these experts and kind of say like so if that's our goal for students how do we do that in our schools and work towards that. So um that's just a little bit more about what we're thinking but yeah it would be um just similar to what we did for the
portrait where we would go to a lot of our families alums people who are in the community and invite them if they have that expertise to come. So, and we would kind of we would look through those applications and and ask the people that
do have that expertise to come and run it in roundt conversations with students helping lead those discussions. >> Director St. Did you have a question? >> I was just going it was along the lines what you said it would it is so vast. So I I feel like that's covered now is
direction. I'd almost wonder if you wanted to have it um like a three-part series and say, you know, the just so people come with an expectation of they're not just having this one, but they they know there's more to come and how
Thanks. Any other feedback on that? More broadly, if we're getting a lot of attendance at dessert and dialogue because we have a specific topic, we consider adopting that for the coffee and conversation to try to drive more
attendance. >> Try to adopt I'm sorry, say that again. >> Try to adopt a specific topic for coffee and conversation to drive attendance because let's be honest, like we can count on less than two hands how many people have attended coffee conversation
that year. just something to consider. >> I I'll just add I I had that same thought. Um so I I if we can pursue something like that, I would support it. I I do feel
like people need to have a reason to come other than just a complaint. So, you know, I've said it would be nice if they came and it felt more like a mingling event rather than they come and they, you know, sit down with one person. If if they don't have a
complaint, then they don't feel like they can show up or they don't have an issue to ask a question about. So, I think if you had it around a topic and it was more iming, but again, I don't have a perfect answer. I think the way we've been doing it worked out great for
when we needed it, but I'm wondering we evolve now that we're not >> well if it yeah >> right um well if you'll let us think about it a little bit I think um the reason so even
um even though we don't maybe have concerns at this moment knowing that we have this opportunity um when something does come up it's val because then we have like a structure for people where they can you know people obviously can reach out and email you at any time Um,
I don't know. I I Well, can we just think about it because it's I I don't want us to not have an opportunity for people to come and just talk about what's on their mind because you, as you know, you've gotten a few topics that are not part of any agenda. So, there's
really no there was really no other vehicle to really have a back and forth with you other than to come with that. So, let if we can think about a little bit more, that'd be great. We'll just keep moving though on that. Anything else? Um, anything else on the copy
conversation or dessert and dialogue? Okay. Um, item number eight, our action items. U Barb, do you want to give us a quick um summary on these approval? Why we'd be approving these policies in the first reading? Yeah. So, these policies again went to the policy committee and they have minor changes that do not
affect I'm just going to read from your policy on policies. I put this in um so your policy on policies board 208 um if policies have minor changes that do not affect the substance of the policy or have been modified because of legal a
legal change over which the school board has no control um the school board can adopt the modified policies in a single meeting. So the that's what these are these are all ones that have just very minor changes or something that was updated in statute and so the language
needed to be updated in statute. Uh the policy committee went through all of these and um are putting them forward for just um approval tonight with the single reading. >> What questions do you have, Director Peterson?
>> I needed Jen here again for this. So we'll have to follow up with her. Policy 606 section 3D. I would like to ask I would like to
words can I table can we move 606 back to another reading? I would like Jen Brightel to come in and present on the new ethics standards that are implemented next fall as she did
when the new science standards were brought up, new math curriculum, witten wisdom. So, um, it seems like whenever a new curriculum's been passed by the state, she's come in and presented to us what it changes, give us a brief kind of by
school. And she didn't do it for this one. I'd like her to >> Okay. Is that um And so because >> instructional material >> and so >> we're getting a new curriculum. Could she give us an overview on that? We're getting a new curriculum in what are you
do you >> social study >> so I'm I'm only seeing a change in the policy as item yes but letter D am I missing something that I'm I'm not seeing anything that
you're talking about I just >> education yes so with other new curriculums being adopted by our school district I would I'm just looking for this one just seems to be in there. I'm wondering
why we haven't gotten a new curriculum overview when we have on others before new textbooks and instructional materials are. >> Now, typically it goes to the curriculum committee. Has that gone to the curriculum committee? I'm not
>> That's why I would have need I need >> Yeah, I Okay. Okay. And I can I can I'm not I'm just not aware of Yeah, maybe just ask her. But um regardless, we can absolutely p So the short answer is we can absolutely pull this and have another reading if that was what you'd
like. I'm not sure that would what you're asking would change the um content of this policy. That's what I was asking. Like I think we're talking two different things because the the policy 606 that's listed here, the only change is is the instructional materials
including teacher manual. tapes and supplementary materials. Yeah, you can read that. >> Yeah, >> I think that's different than an update from Jen unless I'm not understanding. And maybe I'm jumping the gun here and she's already has on the agenda some upcoming meeting giving us why we're
adopting why the state adopted standards or just usually she breaks it down by and what it is and why >> and I have not heard at the curriculum advisory any updates regarding new social.
>> You have something over there. >> Yeah. questioned if we'll be getting a new social studies curriculum next year and she said no. >> You talked about it in the curriculum committee. >> We have not.
>> Every district in Minnesota has to adopt it for the 26. >> Let's get back to you on this because we already had I I mean some of the things >> um I know we have a we already had a personal finance class. We already had there were some things that we already
had >> already, >> but we'll get back to you on that. We'll get back to you on that. So, >> so I guess I'm looking for are you wanting to to make a motion to pull that for a second reading or are you okay with the us continuing the discussion
around the policies because I'm not seeing what you're asking in that policy. Is that clear? Yes, I was did not want to approve these new instructional materials for social studies next fall without Jen giving us
the new social studies ethnic studies. Okay. So, okay. So, let's um let's first of all besides policy 606, is there any other discussion on these before I'll be looking for a motion to
pull policy 606 for a second reading. No. >> And then amend the motion. >> May I May I just I just really want clarity. So when you read 6D, it reads this. This is the addition. All instructional materials, including
teachers manuals, films, tapes, or other supplementary material which will be used in connection with any survey, analysis, or evaluation as part of any applicable program shall be available for inspection by the parents or guardians of the students. Are you
opposing that addition? >> I didn't use the word opposing. Are you concerned about that addition? Like I'm I think I'm not sure this >> I think Kelly said it right. I'm talking about two different things. >> Okay. >> But I think too
>> do you need to pull this or are you fine with the policy going through? But we did look at this in the policy committee. >> Yeah. Yeah. I've read it a few times today. Yeah. Um
where there's confusion over what your suggestion because I do see that there is a new social studies curriculum for the 2627 school year and that is part of policy 306 but based on the specific text that
that superintendent Duffin is referencing it seems very different than what I've seen and so maybe I'm not reading the full policy and I'm missing it. Um >> not seeing it either. I'm not sure what
part I'm missing because I'm reading the red line changes and I don't see anything addressing social studies whatsoever. Take social studies out of it. Let me back up. When the state
tells us we are teaching a new curriculum >> and they don't tell us curriculum, they tell us standards. >> Standards. >> Okay. >> Okay. Our director of teaching and instruction has come to the podium and explained why. What's different? What
needs to be met now that didn't? Why new grades are learning a new something? Science learned new things at different grades. Math got moved around and stuff. So maybe I'm confused.
I want to make sure Jen is coming in and explaining the new social studies curriculum. We must adopt standards by fall of 26. That to me jumped out when I reread 606 textbooks and
instructional materials. So if I tell you that Oh, go ahead. So, but we will have her come in and explain that difference and what is the same and what is different. But there are no new materials. We can have her come in and talk about it. >> Can't be true.
>> There's no new materials. There's an entire new section that must be >> hold but hold on. I know, but we're only focused on the policy, >> not selecting material >> and we're not discussing standard. >> We're not That's what I'm confused about. So, I'm
>> one clarification that I could use because I do have some confusion I think Jenny that you're that I'm aligned with here. Um, do we what happens with new standards from the state? Does that go to a board
discussion? Um, how about we get back to you? I mean, like typically this we that's why we have a curriculum advisory committee and they talk about things a little more depth. Um,
but I mean we could certainly we don't typically go indepth around standards at the board table because of that's such a that's such uh like you wouldn't go through all the math stand, >> right? you wouldn't do.
>> Um, but if you have questions about them, that is absolutely for you to ask those questions of our director of teaching and learning of me is we can have her come and talk with you and we could we could include it in a study session so that you could really get in
dive a little bit deeper into what's being asked. >> But am I making this up that she does not stand up there and talk about when the new science standards change? talked about it at a high level for sure. Yep. And during the curriculum review. Yep. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. She'll provide us a curriculum
review, but again, I think that we're talking about two different topics here. And so, could we can I suggest that we have Jen come in like Superintendent Duffren said for a study session, update us on new course proposals and new standards. I also attend the curriculum
advisory committee and we just talked about new courses for the next school year. I can provide an update as well the next time that that group meets. Um, but I think what we're addressing here today in policy 606 really is just a redlinined change in that policy. And so
are there questions or additional questions about not moving that forward based on the changes in the policy? Because I'm not seeing the changes based on the questions you're asking. >> And and now re now that the way you just stated it, I'm okay. It's just that red line. And actually that red line is very
positive. transparency. So, I'm okay now. Thank you. I wanted to voice having Jen come in >> for sure. And we can absolutely do that. That's Yep. That's no issue. Okay, great. Um, thank you for Yeah, go ahead. Director Stout, did you have a question
still on that? >> Nope. Now it's all been cleared up. >> Um, any other discussion on the policies listed here that we have? Um 306414 501 514 516 534 606 709 712 or 722.
>> All right, with that looking for a motion to approve the policies as a slate move. >> Second move by Director Donna, second by Director Peterson. Any other discussion? All those in favor say I. I
>> I opposed. Motion carries. Um and with that, uh we are at item nine, which is adjournment. Looking for a motion to adjourn this evening. Uh motion by director Domen, uh second by Director Stout. All those in favor say I.
>> I. >> I. that we are adjourned at 7:59.