the meeting of the Rockford Area Schools Board of Education to order. And please stand for the pledge. >> I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation
under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. All right. At this time, uh, we have board roll call. Madam clerk, >> uh, Kevin >> here. >> Frasa >> here. >> Jessica Johnson >> here. Eric >> here. >> Chris Morgan >> here.
>> Jamie Hilstrom here. All >> present. >> Next item on the agenda, approval of the agenda. Uh, Dr. Briller, are there any changes that we need to >> No changes. >> All right. At this time, I'll entertain a motion. >> Motion to approve the Motion by
Hilstrom. >> Second. >> Second by Gordy. Any other questions or comments? All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. Those opposed. Passes unanimously. All right. Item number three, public
comment. All right. We have no public comments at this time. We will close that portion of the agenda. Number four, consent items. Consent agenda. Anything point out through that, Dr. Hoover. >> Uh, nothing to to point other than the
fact that I might mention that we did um adopt math curriculum. So, we're asking for or we selected math. We're asking the board tonight through consent to adopt that curriculum and Kathy will talk about it briefly tonight as well. >> Perfect. At this time, I'll entertain a motion.
>> Have a motion to approve >> by Morgan. >> I'll second. >> Second by Shadine. Any other questions or comments? All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. Those opposed. Passes unanimously.
All right. Item number five, superintendent report. Dr. Rolver. >> Thank you, Chair Johnson. We're now in the home stretch of the school year. Um, and graduation for the wonderful class of 2026 is a week from this coming Friday. Um it's been another terrific
year in Rockford. As in and as excited as the students are for summer, my excitement about the future of our schools is even stronger. Uh tonight we'll have um Rogers Middle School principal Mr. Warzeka here to join us for some highlights about our middle school. But we before we hear from Principal Warzeka, I'm happy to share a
little about what's happening at Reams and Rockford High School. Um at the elementary school, all students finished their fastbridge testing in early May. Um the second grade grandparents day that occurred early May was a huge success. Um we hosted over 200 grandparents who came for a special
program with all of the second graders. Um the fourth grade students participated in artists and residents with Roxan Wallace. Um she worked with students to incorporate science concepts into movement and she worked with the students in forms of arts and academics. U several students in grades one through
four participated in the annual spelling be with Excel coordinator Miss Holly Bjorn. Um, our kindergarten students participated in the annual farm day, including stations that involve live farm animals, wolf spinning, milk and dairy farming, and tractor wagon rides.
Uh, we also had the reams arts and academic showcase, many live performances and artifacts of student uh, work uh, throughout um, the school that were done during the school year. We also had our fourth grade students walk to the middle school for um, their transition day. They will meet, they did
meet with key staff members and tour the middle school. uh got acclimated with their surroundings prior to next fall. Um REMS will host the annual senior salute for our graduating seniors on May 29th. If you have a chance to come and stop in for that, it's kind of a a fun
event. Um on June 3rd, our fourth grade students will participate in their annual track and field day. And several um grade levels are participating in some endofear um field trips um at the high school. Um this was a really nice event and I know we had um uh Chair
Johnson there working um but the second annual DAPE extravaganza was hosted by Rockford Area Schools at the RCC. Um if you want to smile, come to that event. Um it is amazing. You know, it's funny. I had a lot of people come thank me and I all I did was say yes, we can have it
here. Um but it was um what our volunteers and all of the staff from the surrounding districts and our own uh put together. It's truly special and I do want to make a special thanks to Cher Johnson for uh working that event. Um senior Lily Bur was honored as this
year's Athena Award winner at the 54th annual Minneapolis Athena banquet. Um over 214 students and guests participated in our grand march with March which was ran by the student council and the prom which was run by the junior parents and thanks to all those who spent months planning and
volunteering. Uh our annual CNA program was reviewed by MDE. Uh the representative from MDE had many accolades for the program and also the instructor, Miss Beckham Morgan. Um our scores on the knowledge skills test remain exceptional. IB testing began in
late April. A huge undertaking for teachers and proctors and students. Uh great many students putting forth a lot of effort. Um looking forward to receiving their scores in early July. Uh Rockford High School, this is a neat thing, was also recently awarded the MASSP or the Minnesota Association of
Secondary School Principles the Silver Star of Innovation Award for their work in their early college and career program, Launch Your Future. Uh in addition to the video and four external visits, uh Mr. Manard and Miss Gordy um will present to principles um across the
state um and their goal to afford every student the opportunity to receive college credit or career certification or both. Um, in district news, operationally, we continue to be on track to be staffed for next school year. It includes teaching faculty as well as support staff. Uh, one area I would like to highlight is that we are
pleased to announce the hiring of our new activities director, Mr. Joe Clay. Uh, Mr. Clay is coming to us from Central School District in Norwood, Young America, uh, where he served in a similar role. His first day with us will be July 1st. Uh, now that we've filled that position, Mr. Mr. Clay will work
with Principal Manard to hire a new athletic secretary as Stacy Larson will also be retiring with Mr. Pratt effective June 30th. In other human resources related news, we're moving uh forward and toward the opening of negotiations with our local SEIU bargaining unit as well as our principal
group uh with the hopes of settlements with both groups by midsummer. In our work session uh that occurred prior to the meeting, we discussed updates uh to our potential partnership in Corkran and our timeline and decision making process with some ancillary facilities uh
related needs. Uh these operation items will require the board uh further board discussion and decisions will guide Rockford area school both today and into the future. In addition, we're still awaiting word from the land appraiser for the land behind reams and the district demographic study which we
anticipated to be ready uh by the next board meeting. Um as mentioned last month, the 2026 legislative session has been one of inaction. While the deadline for adjournment is technically tonight at midnight, for all intents and purposes, the session ended yesterday.
uh very little was accomplished in terms of school finance or policy but one exception is uh the permanent school trust fund which we talked about in our work session. Uh this fund has been distributed uh to schools for many years. Uh it's quite healthy fund and both parties as well as the governor
would like to distribute more of this fund to schools. Uh to do this a constitution amendment must be voted on and passed by the voters in Minnesota. that will occur in November and that will um increase Rockford's portion to the tune of about $35 per pupil.
Um discussions were also held around compensatory hold harmless bill um and the $250 million cut to special ed um but the final ominous bill will have very little money for compensatory. It's about 10 million statewide um and no plans to address the special ed cut this
session. Instructionally, there's a lot going on in the Department of Learning Innovation. Miss Jill Gordy will share some information tonight related to our summer programming and we're happy to share that staffing for summer is also in a good place. In fact, we had more educators interested in teaching summer school than we had teaching spots which
is an absolute anomaly uh when it comes to summer school. Uh we recently held our annual spring meeting of the curriculum instruction and assessment committee of which we have some board members uh here present that were there. I'm thankful to the committees for their expertise and their time. Uh spring
meetings recently happened at all three schools. in fact last week and Miss Kathy Matson presented the accomplishments from this year and also provided our staff with a jump start on our work for next school year. As I do most months, I attended meetings of AMSD, MASA, MSCO and staff. Worth noting
uh Rockford School Board Clerk Hilstrom was recently appointed to the SAT executive board um at a meeting last month. Um I also attended the spring right county conference meeting um and then again that Dave extravaganza at the RCC and the Athena Awards um with Mr.
Mard and that concludes the May superintendent report. >> Wonderful. Anybody have any questions for Dr. R? >> All right. Thank you for your report. Appreciate it. All right. Next, um RMSES
rocket spotlight award. Mr. Horseeka. >> All right. So, our rocket spotlight uh winner is uh currently uh a little bit delayed in traffic. If it's okay, can I
uh switch to our celebrations and they'll be here? >> Oh, absolutely. >> Perfect. Uh so, little known fact, uh I brought a group of eighth graders and when I was in middle school at their age, uh the Chicago Bulls did something
called free Pete. Uh, and I bring up to our very own version of the three repeat. So, the environ uh right here in front. Uh, if you guys could just stand up. >> Do you have Sorry.
>> So, uh, I'm gonna give you an opportunity. Please introduce yourself. Uh, and uh share your name and then uh what years you were present uh or either this year or two years ago or how many of the three were you able to be on the team
for? >> I was on the team for all three years. >> Um I'm Douglas Stark and I was on the team for the last year. >> Um I'm Tucker Eric and I was on the team for all three years. >> Um I'm that and I was here for the first
and second and I was here for all three. >> All right. So when we talked uh I gave them the opportunity, do you want to talk or not talk? And much to my surprise, they said, "Yeah, we're going to talk." Of course. Uh so they didn't
want it scripted, so we're going to pass the mic. Uh so uh could you tell us a little bit about what Environ is andor just your overall experiences with it? >> All right. So Environ uh you
I'll start from Okay. So in Barathon um you go to um like a farm or something uh one day and then you take a series of tests about a different uh about different environmental topics about
Minnesota. There's like soil, um trees, trees, aquatics, wildlife, and like um current events. Current events. So like current stuff happen wild.
And then um so you take these tests and then um well they get graded and um if you get a good grade on them you went the whole thing. And so yeah uh I did the soils part mostly on the
testing which in my opinion was the hardest because I knew the least about it beforehand. But um I think doing environ I know a lot more about soils. >> Um so I did the forestry part and um
and um to me it wasn't the hardest but it was difficult. Um but yeah, you sort of show up, you study for a while, then you show up and yeah, you just take test with.
I think the most exciting part about Environ is getting to know like getting closer with your teammates like as he said and I did aquatics for the first two years. I think it was pretty fun to learn new things about our environment.
>> Uh I did topics mainly wildlife though and then the hardest part of it overall is probably like the current events and then so >> all right so of the three championships
you know they all together uh was there any championship or any win that you just thought maybe you didn't have it Um our first year, our first year it was sixth grade. We were going around sixth,
seventh, and eighth. And um we thought that we had no chance going into it. We were just doing it for fun pretty much. And then we heard who second place was and then we just kind of knew that. >> All right. Uh thank you all. We
appreciate. Is there anything uh anyone wants to add here before I turn the mic over? >> Um so um so when you meet for marathon the study it's once a day during or every Wednesday during boost and I just wanted to
>> pretty cool. >> So uh as a principal I appreciate uh that these people represent us. they represent us well um as they are out both in it's easy to win anything um
it's hard to put in the preparation and the time and they care about it and they've done that year after year after year and as the team has shifted over time they found a way to continually evolve and learn a whole lot of cool things um and they've assured me that I
can't bring them back next year for I don't know if they look the registration cards or how that works. But uh if you could join me in giving them a huge round of applause. >> Are you mentoring any younger kids so
that they can uh step in your shoes? >> Not yet. >> Mr. for Zecho. What's the succession planning here? >> You have a dynasty going. You got to keep that going. >> So, in all fairness, we didn't really have a succession plan when this sixth
grade team showed up and just started winning. So, we're hoping that repeats itself. Mr. Matson has many tricks. Okay. So, Miss Pinsfield has helped out quite a bit. So, we got a certificate for you uh to wrap up as you go. But we appreciate you, the legacy you have, and the
amazing things you were able to learn and grow that are really applicable um to your lives, not only out in high school, but beyond. So, thank you. We appreciate that. >> All right. So, I know they're busy. So, if we can um uh if you want to, you're
free to go for the >> Great job. >> Thank you, guys. >> So, I'm not quite certain if uh our Rock Rocket Spotlight uh award winner is here yet. So, if it's okay, >> just keep going. >> Just keep Yeah, >> she's walking in right now. So, this is
really awesome because I think she was being uh a little nervous for being embarrassed, but um this is uh a unique opportunity. We give the rocket spotlight to many uh amazing uh humans
and many are often nominated. But in this exact moment, it went to um someone who wasn't a teacher, who wasn't uh a pharaoh or working in the exact trenches, but in terms of making any impact on achievement. I would argue
that uh hers is as vital of a role as can possibly be. She >> literally she's walking in. Um so our process we have Bolt that goes through um and reviews applications and it was abundantly clear that uh she was the one
that >> Yes. >> Yes. Thank you. >> Yes. >> Perfect. So, come on down. So, Stacy, EVERYBODY. >> SO, all right. So, you get a fancy
trophy with your name on it, but uh no. Yes, you're right. And then on top of it, this is my trophy. I get to uh say all the good things you do, but I can't quite possibly do that. Before I get into the formal, um uh I thought the
best way to ab capture the meaning that she has to our building is uh do you remember the time? So, uh let's start most recent. Do you remember the time that uh we brought you in front of the school board and gave you a gift? Uh we're all done. Um how about let's go
more recent. Do you remember the time that you actually convinced me to wear a hot dog shirt on food truck day? That was impressive. Um, do you remember the time uh that you saw something that was a little bit off with a kid uh and made
sure to connect them with someone? Do you remember the time that uh you made sure every kid had food? Do you remember the time that literally uh you worked with kids to make sure their dietary needs were met? Even though it was
complex and very uh unique, uh you just stuck with it. The parent phone calls, everything. Do you remember the time when the entire district showed up in your kitchen and fed us? Anyway, uh we might want to forget that. Uh you uh
have been an incredible asset. Um, every single day, uh, it feels like Stacy brings something good, unique. Um, she's constantly growing our system and those in it. Um, it's so much bigger than feeding. Um, it's everything, uh, she is
as a person. So, I'm going to read this because it was thoughtfully wrote by a multitude of people. Um, Stacy has, uh, had a tremendous year in RMS. CS kitchen. Her kindness, connection with kids, and desire to have people feel
welcomed um make meal times at RMS something students look forward to. She's always eager to have uh her lunch staff participate in school dressup days, even uh purchase comeback season t-shirts uh for her lunch crew at uh
during and participate in Dugan Day. Um, she will always make sure that those on a late bus always have a chance for a breakfast, no matter how late the bus. Uh, as she notices students who might be acting uh, not like their normal selves, she's eager to connect them with
counselors, administration, to offer student support elsewhere through their day. Stacy has also reached out to parents numerous times, discuss the dietary needs of students, and ensure that everyone has a healthy lunch. uh she cares deeply for kids and strives to
make every make sure everyone uh can have what they need to be successful. Uh inam an example of this is when Stacy worked with student to make plan for meals uh that she could eat for hot lunch uh with food accommodations and Stacy also introduced that student uh to
uh another member of the kitchen staff just so they could feel comfortable. We appreciate all you do. So, please join your hands and help celebrate our rocket spotlight award. >> Um, so we talk about a lot of things. Uh
at this school board we talked about a lot of cool things about moving the needle in terms of achievement. Um this last year we uh made the decision to have a couple extra minutes in first hour to help transition and the kids
connect. Um and Stacy has also used it to make sure that every kid uh has a breakfast to start their day. So we really do appreciate everything she does. Um, if that works, I will jump into my presentation.
>> Yes, we can move ahead to agenda item sixb, principal report. >> All right. I'm sorry that it's the wor show up tonight. Yes. Uh, it's great to be back uh here today. A couple things I want to focus
on. Um, so in general there is amazing things happening in our building, but specifically with eighth grade. I've seen them physically grow several feet tall in many cases throughout their time here, but they're special crew because they were my first fifth grade when I
joined. Um, I uh emotionally stable person. I'd like to think most days, but I have no doubt in my mind I will try when they do their final walk through on June 4th at 2:35. You're all welcome to come in if you wish. But um not not only
are they amazing humans um they have grown as individuals and the data uh that I can't share because it's embargoed is uh they are crushing it and they are really stepping in up to the plate um to be the leaders in the
building. Um so STEM showcase overview. Um we had a great night. Over 40% of our students uh attended which uh doesn't sound like a lot but when you put all the different things we were up against that night with sports and uh events um
we were very pleased with that. We began tracking data um from our northwest suburban um to make sure that we were um uh looking at what percentage of our families came out. Uh and then STEM IRL,
it continues to be a huge hit at the middle school. We're working with the foundation to best leverage our network and fill those gaps. Uh really excited about possible partnership with that. um our engagement and connectedness uh
survey. The timing of this particular board meeting is we are almost at the end and having our final data um and I really thought I'd be able to uh do that today but uh there was an issue with uh Google and essentially u we're waiting
on finalized results which will happen on this week for both SAS and student connectedness. our lifelong learning results and MC tests are in, but obviously they're under embargo. Couple things we're really excited about around the middle school. Um, uh, we are
jumping at a bit uh to be able to do VDAK training with our middle school ELA folks. That's something I'm able to join in with them and I'm excited to learn and grow as a uh, math teacher. It's been a long time since I've gotten into
that and I'm excited to do that work with them. Um, Middle school math has been working hard to adopt curriculum um and looking specifically at using some summer writing hours. I know um that will be talked about later as well, but
specifically uh the math team as we adopt first. We're looking at how do we uh build bridges both the high school and the elementary um because we know we have work to do there in terms of making sure that we build up as early and often as possible. Chromebook and tech. Not
unlike uh nation trends based on data, uh we are seeing that um students are most effective at learning uh when we're mindful of what technology they use. And so um it's our hope that we continue to
migrate that with a 57 um kind of more cartbased model to start the year next year to make sure that students are um able to engage in the learning. before we put a chrome open on hand and expect them to manage all the
other distractions that come with that. So it is important that there we have a strong presence uh where they learn those skills before middle school so they're ready for high school as well. Um we've had data retreats for both ELA and math. Um so we've completed two full
cycles of that um basically after fall fast and then after winter fast. Um, and it is an option for teachers to meet at the after spring fast as well. All right, so jumping into it, um, as you
can see our progress, uh, as it relates to kind of the last time we saw you, um, we've seen, uh, kind of continued growth in certain areas. Uh, we continue to be, uh, higher in instructional design and databax student support. and we're
really focused on data hydrogen support which is why we see that number um increase quite a bit as we have gone through the year. Um this generic slide is just an overview of our SIP. So for
references um one thing with the instructional design talks about the shift from uh the one through four standardbased model through A throughF and all the work that supports that transition this year. It afforded us the
ability for the first time in a very long time to look at GPA. Although GPA is not everything, it is a helpful kind of one number um summary to be able to understand where we're at. Um we're
pleased to report that 81.6% of the middle school got at one point in time an A or a B honoral. Although we did not formally adopt the honoral process this year, uh we use the same metric as the high school to be able to um to be able
to use what a baseline would be. And that's we will look to be doing in uh the coming years. So perspective uh that's about 23 out of 28 that have shown um that level of success throughout the course of the year. So we're we're pleased with that. Now uh
like anything it's getting sustained success as the standards tend to progress uh and build throughout the course of the year. Um here's our big learnings in the terms of instructional design. Uh we're building in uh
processes for communicating missing work and failing assignments uh that are consistent. We're having um handling of incomplete at the end of a marking period. We know that students go through situations and we've developed uh some
timelines uh with how do we approach that work that ultimately uh comes from a lens of learning. Uh and then last and most importantly this that has taken a lot of our work. Um we jumped into the
uh grade or 8 through uh 58. However, we really ended up spending a lot of our year especially since February around the relearning summitives having summitives not be optional and then how do we structure and support that process
and we spent a lot of time on PLC doing that. Um this engage tole learn uh scale is not new. You probably have seen it ad nauseium at this point. Again this is just a summary of our um our s goal. Uh
but the learning and action is really what have we been doing since the last time I saw you. So uh we've been taking an approach with PD about how do we also uh bolster tier one engagement and so
what we did is uh basically across all content areas what are the strategies that improve uh engagement and then teachers got to select what strategies they wanted to hear more of. We picked a target strategy and rotated through
starting PLC's during that time. Um and then quarter four we started uh hall pass. They tell you never start something uh midyear or end of year. Um we decided to go against that and we're glad we did. So it it allowed us to work
the bugs out of uh using infinite campus and the hall pass features. Um, but there was a moment where I walked I did my normal passing time uh walk and then I walked from eighth grade hallway all the way to the art room and I literally
saw um Miss Miller, Miss Worth, Miss Instrom uh all on carts and uh literally they all had the little screen up that had a picture of who was supposed to be in the hall at that exact time based on passes. Just to be honest, we stepped
into the work thinking we were going to solve an operational problem and we ended up with a unique window of solving an instructional problem because we can see when we go back to this scale it gives us a window who is avoiding who is withdrawing and it gives a real time in
the moment we're on there in the hallway what's happening what's going on um that I think we're only scratching the surface on the value that that can bring to a learner and we're excited to hit hit those conversations in September and
uh hit the ground running with that. But um that's been work that I I would not have thought correlated so well with our engagement scale, but it's been really nice. Um and we're still in the process of building baseline data as we started in April 7th, I think, was our first
day. Um, and then having last but not least, having actionable items that teachers use either at end of unit or just in general to help students reflect on their own engagement. And there's a lot of different options out there of how we've done that. Um, databack
students support. Again, here's uh gist of our uh plan and where we're at. Here's what we've been working on and our learning and action since the last time we saw each other. So, and two rounds of uh data retreats and then
we've done targeted boost instruction specifically in five through eight uh ELA and math quarter 2 and three uh we've used uh Mr. Matson in really creative ways to help cover a boost so that those ELA teachers and math
teachers do target intervention routine consistent. And uh we are waiting for the fast test to be finalized so that we can go through and uh see if that worked and to what degree it worked so that we can u make changes
for the next year or figure out what is most effective to keep. Um everybody their different style. We had some small groups that consisted uh that stayed the same uh for first six to eight weeks. We've had some that uh kind of changed
every two weeks. So, we're excited to see what worked uh in terms of moving the needle on student achievement. And then um we GPS our guiding personal uh success which is kind of builds avid based uh strategies for students tier
one instruction. The reason why I put that in data back student support is we see the need for this because behind every person who's uh on a plan we see a subset of skills that uh we may or may not have taught in the future. So we are
beyond excited to make this tier one instruction uh around uh just what does it mean to be a student. And uh last but not least we did a samp uh data collection sample uh for when a
student enters uh an achieve achievement plan so that we can be able to um look at the data and ultimately analyze. We just have received multiple compliments in the we bring a student to a special ed referral at the end of one or two
interventions. It's been absolutely unbelievable to see the patterns in the data and all we're doing and to be able to synthesize it through this approach. um student connectedness. Um although that is currently being uh finished,
we're pleased to say that we initiated a uh basically connecting with a student uh for 10 days in a in a row. We've done student of the week, which is the best way to start a Monday, I've got to tell you. Uh to have four kids who come down
uh and they don't know why they're getting called down. Many of them are nervous. And then um Miss India and I actually have found more joy in going up into a class and say, "Hey, can we borrow the student week? Can we pull that kid in?" And classmates cheer for
him. And we're seeing just a wide swath of reasons why a teacher nominates from student growth um to high levels of achievement and anywhere in between. Um so in terms of uh this is our baseline although before Google glitched out
today um our early indications seem like we would be meeting our goal. We just don't have the volume to be able to report on that just yet. So the part we can report on is our student activities because we know that if uh students are uh engaged in activities in or around uh
the school uh they have another adult point. Um so So based on our results of about 460 kids um 87% 87.5% of students are being involved in uh school activities uh in or outside. That is a
very high number. Um so obviously each one has their story but um I think it's just a testament to how busy uh our families are uh as well as um just how um awesome our kids are to be managing all these things all at once. Um and
then uh fast bridge we are wrapping up this week and we'll be pleased to report out if we met our goal and um be able to talk about that uh kind of uh either in June or I'm sure you'll get updated along the way. Um but couple things to
point out. I've talked about most of these things. We're changing our design the summer school to really be um yes a buildup but also how can we launch uh into um the school year and we're targeting August time um for many
strategic ways. We also did targeted services and after school homework out so um these are all kind of things we've we've targeted to increase uh student growth. So with that any questions? cuz
I know it's a lot thrown at you. >> Does anybody have any questions? I didn't hear you. Did you say you did have an after school targeted services? >> Um, yes, we had an after school targeted services and not to be confused with after school homework help which is on Thursday. The
>> the targeted the homework help was targeted with to any family or any >> communication was sent to any family if their child was receiving an F in any grade. So it was a kind of a target market to try to um make sure we were
meeting the uh the right the right uh need. >> Thank you Dr. >> Thank you. Yes. Um we finally were able to get services. We were very proud of that and it wasn't um a massive program but we had um you know decent number of
kids for both literacy and math and um very proud to get that started because it's been hard to get off the ground and it really matters. um uh if we can get a staff member to interested in being involved. So, we were able to send a proposal to uh Wright Tech who is our
fiscal host uh for all of our state approved alternative programs or SAP. Uh got that approved and we we ran it here second semester. So, we're happy about that. >> Amazing. Just for the board, I've been pushing for this since I got on the board because the money is through that
program that we run summer school with. So, I kept saying, "Why aren't we doing this? Why aren't we doing this?" So, thank you. finally after seven years. >> I'd also like to mention um the slide that you talked about student activity involvement. Um I don't want to lose a chance to say
I don't want to lose a chance to say thank you to our our our residents u for voting to keep um our activities funded because um you know I'm looking at this number here and I know kids do stuff outside of school but we have 259 kids
engaged in activities in our school. That's a big deal. Um, and there's a lot of kind of learning in life, right? And there's there's life lessons learned through activities. Um, there's a lot of things that are learned there. Um, I think that's a big deal. And so, I just want to make sure that I call attention to that.
>> Can I just ask one question about M Miss Rosa? Um, this the students involved in a school activity are >> great. 56%. seems low though with all of the things you have available here. So this is
respondents on survey >> not necessarily roster records >> cross audited and um >> and the reason why is because we thought about it. Uh but when you start thinking about what do middle schoolers think of
as a school activity and what do they think of an outside activity? Um we it got too complicated. And so it's possible that I would assume actual data would be um so this is based on surveying their ability to navigate uh that little
nuance but I anticipate even the nuance of yes the activities of the high school we want but it's through school we wondered if that didn't drift some of our data um but either which way the part we care about is are they involved in something um and that really is what
it >> just say it felt like you had half the school involved in the play, >> right? Yes. And it uh on any given evening, on any given night, you can walk down the hallway and uh know what's going on. Um one thing that we are
really grateful for is I know the voices of the student announcements came and were honored last time. Um however, uh that has been huge to highlight what events are going out there. um on any given night they'll say we have this event to that event and uh congrats to
the track for all the PRs. Uh those things matter and I think it also calls attention to maybe those lesser known activities or sports where then maybe have a smaller capture rate but ultimately we want them to feel that
they're connected here as a part of that too. >> And I hope you have more than 259 kids at your end of school year dance just saying >> I think we're there. I think right >> I think I don't know I was going to say this. I don't know if I've had a dance less than 50%. It's always up there. Um
I love watching more than that. I love watching people's faces when I try to describe the support of the community and I I will say we had 17 parent chaperones at a middle school dance and just watch people's faces because I think that's the secret magic that makes
it all work is we have amazing parents that uh give up their evening and spend time in the middle school. >> So yeah, >> there's always room for more. >> So go ahead. >> No. >> So I have a question. >> Yeah. Are you working on your doctorate? Because there is a perfect study in here
that mixed method with your engagement survey. Somebody needs to put that as a case study. So, are you working on your doctorate? >> Uh, I'm always researching >> right there. Sorry. The geek in me is like someone needs to write a a case study. I appreciate that. I appreciate
the nudge. >> Any other questions? >> Anybody else? >> All right. Thank you. >> Thank you very much for coming in. All right. >> Next on the agenda is item 6 C,
Miss Gordy. Summer programming. Do I just >> Perfect. Okay. Well, thanks everyone for having me back. It's our third summer already. It feels that feels a little crazy to me. Um this year, um two things are the
same. Uh the high school and the elementary school are running a the June session from June 8th to June 25th, same time. Um as as Mr. Marzeka alluded to, um we talked earlier this year and in an effort to try to do something a little different with middle school, we decided
to do a ramp up um in August to see what kind of interest we would have. Um not that we don't middle school students attend in June, but it just for them trying to find a different just a different look um and a different feel
to it seemed like a good idea. So um middle school came up with the dates. We're going to do three days a week starting August 4th. Um so we'll go the 4th through the 20th. So they're going Tuesday through Thursday, three days a week, 9 9:00 a.m. to 12. Um the really cool thing about that is um I guess I'm
jumping ahead of myself. We're also doing Maple Hill um July to August. I have not offered a Maple School program at Maple Hill in three years. Maple Hill's willing to transport students from Maple Hill to our session at the um
middle school in August. So, that's that's a really huge deal for us. Um and our hope is we get more students. Um and you'll see the numbers here in just a minute, but um we we want to start somewhere and we think we can turn this into something pretty cool. So, I'm excited about it. I think it's a really
um a really positive change and and I'm looking forward to that. So, that's what ESY is on there as well. They've Emily's kind of changed a few dates. Um I this year have been coordinating it. I'm really super lucky. Erin Sler's back here. She's going to help supervise this
summer. She's been a big support. Um and of course, Crystal Larson, who is awesome, is my districtwide support. She's been helping me roster. So, we're almost there. Um okay so our numbers this year um at the elementary this is where we ended
sorry May trying to think what day it was maybe Friday May 6th um so as of right now I have three elementary teachers teaching and costy Marty Johnson Elizabeth who've taught with me the last two years they're awesome um and then at Maple Hill I have Alex and
Elizabeth T as well who also helped me in the past my Maple Hill numbers tend to go As we get into the into the year, we tend to have more people come in. Our focus is solely math and reading. Um, and the teachers do a really nice job with developing the curriculum. Um, at
Maple Hill, they usually focus on a theme. I'm not sure what that is yet. This year, I'm meeting with, um, Eron and I are meeting with our teachers this week, Wednesday. So, um, at the high school, it's always a little bit in flux, but I'm actually really happy to tell you I have 18
students right now. Um, That's a significant change from years past you guys. Uh and the reason why is that our teachers have really partnered with us to offer opportunities for students during the school year to recover their credits. So that's a positive to be
lower numbers at the high school. Um, of course we have about three weeks left, so I'm hoping it doesn't go up significantly, but um, the nice thing is that we tend to get them done if we can right away and not use our online resource if we don't have to to do an
entire class over. Um, and then we also have um, again at our middle school to ramp up to the school year, their focus will be math and reading. Um, as of right now, we have 13 enrolled. We're hoping to um, get more students into that so we can get another staff member there, Andrea Hill, is doing that for
me. Oh, sorry. On my high school, Samantha Bloom and Julie Merrill will be helping me again with that. Yeah, it's really short and sweet. Um, so questions that I can answer for you about summer school this year.
>> Dr. Red, >> thanks Johnson. Not a question, just a thanks. um the you know there's only four slides here or whatnot but I got to tell you that that Jill has been working on this since January um to make sure we have the the staff the kids the criteria
um we have to have what's called CLPS for every kid because that's required by law so there are continual learning plans um uh communication with parents um interviewing staff um and one of the reasons why um you know I I said Jill you've been really good at at organizing
the loistics and they could still use you. So, she's been doing that part, but as you probably know, and you should hopefully know this, that that Jill was selected by the high school to become the new assistant principal. So, she's going to have other jobs in the summer. So, we tapped Aaron. Um, and thankfully
Aaron was willing to step up to say, I got the dayto-day in the summer because Juel will be doing other things. And so, I feel really good about the team um that was put together and their collaboration. So, I wanted to point it out and say thank you to both of you. will be awesome.
>> Anybody else have any questions regarding summer school? >> Wonderful. Well, >> yeah, just you mentioned um there's transport from Maple Hill. >> So, what has happened is we don't offer the district doesn't offer any
transportation, but Maple has their own Maple Hill has their own van. So, they're willing to pick up the kids and bring them all for us >> for the middle school. >> For the middle school. Yeah. Yeah. And that actually is why um we actually changed the time to 9
a.m. >> Okay. Thought it was a bit much to ask middle schoolers to be here by 8:30. >> Great. >> Okay. >> All right. Thank you guys. >> Thank you. >> Thank you.
>> All right. Moving forward to 6D. resolution to certify listing of graduates. The board needs to pass a resolution authorizing Rockford High School principal Paul Manard to grant high school diplomas to all Rockford Area School District students that have met the state of Minnesota and Rockford
area school district graduation requirements. If the board agrees, this will certify our listing of graduates. Be it resolved by the school board of independent school district number 83 authorizes Rockford High School principal Paul Manard to grant high school diplomas on Friday, May 29th,
2026 to all Rockford area school district students that have met the state of Minnesota and Rockford area school district graduation requirements at this time. Any questions by anyone? All right, I will entertain a motion.
I'll make a motion to approve the resolution to certify listing of graduates. Motion by Pasca. >> Second. >> Second by Gordy. Any other questions or comments? Being this is a resolution. We have a roll call. Madam clerk.
>> Beth. >> I. >> Chris Morgan. >> Hi. >> Jamie Hilstrom. >> Hi. >> Kevin Shine. >> Hi. >> Jessica Johnson. >> I. >> Passes unanimously. All right.
Item 7A, learning and innovation update, Miss Madson. All right. Thanks for having me. It's a good opportunity to reflect on the year and preview some of the work we have going into next year.
So this year we've stayed focused on our three Ps that purpose, process, product. Anytime I feel us varying from that, it brings us back. What's our purpose and how are we going to get there and what are we trying to generate? And ultimately it's that student achievement
and staff achievement and growth throughout the year. This year that achievement and growth was based on these three things. And I want to highlight a little bit about what we've seen in those areas.
Building goal structure as principal war mentioned um we're we're collecting the fast data right now. I was doing that before coming to this meeting. It is really fascinating to see how some of the students are decreasing their risk
and some are not decreasing that risk but are beating their predicted scores. So, we've got to dig into that and see what's behind that. And I look forward to doing that more in the next couple weeks. As a part of supporting our math and
reading goals, we have reinforcement. And so, uh, in the department of learning and innovation, Kevin and I have been talking with teams who are using this tool and making sure they have the support they need. And we're going to
adjust which tool we're using. They have two diagnostics and we can go back to what we were using last year instead of this year because it was a little more flexible in terms of supporting students in an individualized way. So, we're glad to have that supporting the process.
Supporting the process is also our professional development. And I think it's important that you all see the rating for PD days as we're grateful to have as many as we do. And I also share this with teachers when I go to the
buildings because I tell them very directly if they're surprised they're rated so well because they did not personally rate it so well. I want them to share that we're in a system where if you don't feel like the day or all the days collectively helped you grow, then
let's have a conversation about that. I am proud uh of our builts and the way they've helped shape these days so that they've been really overall wellreceived. Uh especially the March one which was
had the remote option. We broke 4.5 there. And so just like students, adults like choice. So you get the perfect pie chart. Um >> yes. Uh and truthfully that that choice
and that ability to make it work for the learning you're ready to do in the moment is key. >> Dr. Ran Poker. >> Thank you. You know, one of the things that I think has really been transformational in our system around professional development is the advent of the building instructional leadership
team. So, um, we're not doing things unto our teachers. They are helping to develop what we are doing. And so, through significant conversations at all three sites, um, what is it connected to our goals um, and our roadmap that you
want to work on? So, um, not only are they helping to design it, many times they're also, um, the ones facilitating. So, I'm really proud of where where we've landed in a short amount of time. So, within three years, we've gone to a place where, um, where our staff is is
act they're active participants in their own professional development. And that that's a really big deal. Um, and so, so I'm I'm proud about that. I'm proud about Kathy's leadership in there. Uh, and we're only going to get better. um you know going forward with that.
>> Thank you. Yes, this was our final PD day of this year. Also really well graded. Uh this was one we added right after spring break and there was a lot of appreciation for that space to reflect and get ready for the final
couple months of school. We have our learning scale that we use to have teachers reflect on how they're growing um in all these areas. And I believe I shared after the February
professional development day, our elementary school teams were celebrating um seeming like they were in their third year of implementation with that new curriculum versus their first. We've already had some schools reach out to us to want to come observe our teams as a
result of that because when reps from the company come and see great things happening, they spread the news. Um, at the middle school and the high school, um, we've had a focus on engagement and relearning, metacognition, and rigor.
And you can see the district data for the learning scale and how it's gone up steadily each um time we've checked. Engagement. I will say this is one area that when I talk with teachers um they
really want to keep working on this because they see that it there's so much to it that we could spend so much time continuing to dig in and there is such power in having a common language to have these conversations and now when I talk with teachers about how students
are progressing they bring up this language naturally it's same when I was teaching when we're using concept cept terms and the students start to use it and then kind of go it's everywhere now. It is everywhere now and that's a great feeling and it will continue to be next
year as well and moving forward beyond that. data back student support. We focused on multilingual learners a little bit this year and we on the left side you see an access um student report
and we have preliminary results for our access tests this from this spring and teachers have learned how to look at those. Our multilingual learner teachers are also working to develop individual learning plans for those students that
will support teachers in providing really individualized support that recognizes their language proficiency specifics. >> Can can I ask for clar so can you tell me more about that assessment that you just talked about >> the access test?
>> Yeah, it is a test that our ML teachers give oneonone to our ML students. We had 112 students test this spring and they go through and test one-on-one on those four language domains. >> Has anyone done a correlation between
the speaking part, the oral language part and then how they're doing on the fast test in literacy since there's such a correlation between oral language and reading? >> It is that is part of what we're doing. Okay. >> Can I tell you exactly what we found yet? No. But absolutely.
>> But you are looking at that. Okay. >> Yes. >> Thank you. Yes. And that same that same question transfers into what teachers asked us when they saw these. I mean, what does that mean as far as how they can access the reading required to be
successful in my class? >> So, it's a great question. >> I I do want to point out again that we've seen an increase in RNL students and you mentionedund, you know, out of roughly 1500. It's it's a pretty big number.
And if you look at the Minnesota report card, uh, our ML students, though, they're not meeting the achievement goals we want to see them meet yet in terms of like MCA scores, they're meeting their language proficiency goals.
And so to make that progress in the MCA testing, you're going to have to make that language proficiency. >> At very high levels, they are. >> Yes. >> Yeah. and we're continuing the state the datadriven student support um and we're
refining that process and I think uh when we we piloted this actually two two years ago at the high school and the way it's evolved just really reflects a lot of learning and collaboration about how best to meet student needs
as far as what we'll be focused on next year really celebrating the story that is Rockford. Um, and as a part of that, we want to tell that story through our profile of a graduate um that celebrates all the
characteristics our students develop during their time here. Um, as a part of that, there will be data, a data dashboard. uh and we'll have data connected to the surveys they do fourth grade, eighth grade, 12th grade as they
leave each building in our system. And then we're also asking builts to help shape some of the ways we celebrate how those characteristics show up in our system and I'm in the midst of working with a
with someone on the graphic design that will kind of be the face of it. >> Thank you. I want to thank vice chair. He goes around the country for his day job and he came back and said profile graduate sounds great. I've seen a lot of these and he shared with us some really cool things around data
dashboards. So it's great to say we're doing this >> and here's who we are and we see a lot of these wonderful cool things that are on people's website, but what does it mean? >> And so um we took that information and dug into a bunch of places and now we are actually going to be constructing a
a data dashboard that's visible to to all of you, to our families, to our community, to our students. Um, as a one of our DOT goals next year. So, I wanted to make sure I mention that we are in year three of a cycle of road maps that the instructional cabinet
helped define. The first year we were focused on the what and we were focused on the how this year and now we're focused on kind of refining and aligning across our system which means now you can see all of our road maps over the
past three years and there's a thread that runs through every row and all of the work builds. So you need each set of work um to establish the next goal.
Here's next year's goals just all isolated. So, we'll I'll take you through a little bit about each one. Might have lost my instructional alignment slide, so I'll add it there.
Um, instructional alignment I'm really energized about. We're going to be working within teams and across teams within the same buildings and across buildings. So, we're going to focus on common language to develop academic skills, common practices. I can tell you
as a high school English teacher with that background, there are so many places where we could get tighter on how we talk about thesis statements, how we talk about writing, and we can get connected to the strategies we like
personally to teach them. But students are going to benefit, and we're going to be more efficient in our instruction if we use the same language and some of the same tools. So that's going to be the work of instructional alignment. Uh we've started a little bit of it this
year even. Um we're also going to talk learner agency and we'll have common language for that. So how do we integrate whole class learning, collaborative learning and self-directed learning both in our flex times at each site and within the classroom? And how
do we help students reflect on which format helps them really engage and learn? Uh part of that learner agency is uh the flex time evolution where we're going to call all of our flex times blast which
stands for building learning and skills together. And we're going to again get tighter on the expectations for that time and also tracking what it's doing for our students concretely over the course of the year. And absolutely our
builts want to celebrate that there are great things happening there already. And then there are places where we can strengthen what's happening. And then datadriven student support is the one part of our roadmap that is staying uh until I can sit here and
celebrate really high achievement for every single one of our students. It needs to stay there and we'll evolve the way we're working on it over the course of the year. Our PD next year we have those seven days again and I want to highlight for
you that our staff rated staff development days as their number one. um component of our Q component professional development program and I think that is due to the purpose with which we plan and the sustained time.
The PLC meetings are are helpful but they go quickly and so that sustained time is a huge piece of our growth within our system. So, um, also I want to highlight that teachers
who are interested have the opportunity to apply for summer writing and we had about 40 applications across our system to do some summer writing work. >> That's good. >> Also want to let you know we
we went through a process of re to adopt a new math curriculum. Next year we'll do the elementary school. Um, and there's the timeline. So, the curriculum we reviewed, we got it down to two, and then the team selected big ideas.
We had a lot of really strong, robust conversation about how to balance math instruction between understanding it, doing it, and using it. And so they were very energized by that concept and
thinking about putting it in those terms for students because sometimes they get focused on one part of that chart over another. And it is a six-year contract and that includes consumables for grade five and
then textbooks 68 along with the digital development and professional development. Does anybody have any questions? >> I have a quick question. Yes. Back to the slide, the LL slide. You said something about changing assessment
within ISL. Does can you does a fast pay to get loaded into ESL for initial placement? >> It does not. >> Oh, bummer. Okay. >> So, what they they are trying to compete with fast and have a tool that is can do
what fast does and also provide learning. >> Okay. I just know because I know a company that the data does load into so that's why I >> so yeah they they're trying to compete. I think there were some glitches with the really robust
>> but that's the reason that you have to have that assessment. Okay. Thank you for clarifying that. >> Yeah. Absolutely. >> Any other questions? The Q comp plan approval is next. Correct. Let's see. Probably slides.
>> Uh for the Q comp report each year, we have an annual report that goes to the state and has them to you. I like to bring to you uh teacher voices because I think they put it better than I can. Um in terms of the built you see that Our
teachers highlight the way the builts are innovating in terms of observation coaches. You see a sense of support come through thanks to their coaching. Um some really powerful statements about
mentors and how they show up day in and day out for the people they're supporting um in the same way they show up for our students. and they're really responsive in terms of our professional development. You see student centered
our build said students are the focus of our work and you see that in the way we structure our professional development. Same thing with these statements. You see people highlighting how we've worked on the student plans and it's it takes
inquiry and digging in and sometimes not knowing the answer but that's the work they're doing so that they can support our students. Uh the observations are consistently valued um because you have that
opportunity to have a sounding board um come in and see what you're seeing and learn along with you. Uh and again there's a focus on students and making sure they're growing and their achievement.
As far as recommendations for next year, um this is a year where there's not a ton of changes. One I want to highlight is we previously had three rounds of observations. We're shifting to two rounds of observations and then what's called a roadmap round. So we have
instructional alignment um learner agency and datadriven student support next year on our road map. The roadmap round is going going to allow every single teacher to go learn from another teacher in the name of alignment. So, if
I'm a 10th grade English teacher, I can go see the ninth grade English teacher and we can see how we're instructing writing in a similar way. So, teachers are actually really excited about that and it came from their
meetings during the course of this year. They asked if we could make that happen. So, I'm proud that we can do that. Um, and then we'll keep building and keep listening to the teachers along the way. >> Anybody have any questions?
>> Yes, Mr. Birdie. >> And this might be more Dr. Ry. Can you remind? So, this is year three, right? Of you implemented Bill Bolt kind of first year, hit it second year, ran third year. What was the pro you remind
me the process of length of time staff goes before y changing? I just can't I remember there was something and I don't recall. Yep, I sure can. So um the idea is to build capacity in our people and to allow uh
many people to be involved in in the shared leadership model. So um the the sites um had to interview and they interview with administrator not of their building along with a member of the EMR they're selected. So we had um you know enough candidates in year one
and so they started to engage in that work and the idea was to roll off a third every year. Um they started getting that work and so then Kathy and I went to them and we said what do you guys want to do? They said we feel like we're just getting started. So we called year one actually year zero. And so all
of the current built folks stayed on. Um so that got us through really this year. Correct. >> Was that? >> Yes. >> Yeah. So so so what we're going to see Thank you. So what we're going to see now is we have a third of those folks rolling off of both built and bolt this
year. Um so then another third will come on. And you know I think our our built and bolts are roughly eightish folks or so at the >> depending on the building. Yes. depending on the building and then they they roll off and new people roll on. Um you cannot apply in round one if you
were just on there and you're rolling off. If nobody were to apply or everybody was selected, you could. And I don't believe that happened this year. We've we've redone it and we've got the new folks on board. Kathy was an integral part of the interview process. And so we have a full complement of built and Bolt at all of our sites going
into next year. >> Yep. So, three three-year terms and >> we had someone apply for Bolt who had been on Built and was like, I'm gonna miss Built. And that's a great thing great thing to hear and it's also great to have people interested in those
positions. >> I couldn't remember the structure. I know it was rolling. I couldn't remember the structure and when the turnover was starting. Yeah, we're excited about this and the fact that people want to be a part of it and you know I know that year one I think we heard some skepticism of you know are you really gonna you know
hear hear my voice and um we're we're pretty clear saying here here's point A and point B we're going here um but all the part in the middle there there's discussion there can be disagreement in fact we encourage disagreement we encourage folks to speak up because um
if you don't have that I don't think you can grow and if that's the case then we won't need anybody on the committ just let's just decide ourselves and so um pretty excited about that. I think they've learned that um we need them to voice um their thoughts and I think
that's been really productive. So it it really um essentially has come to what we want it to be which is that shared leadership and collaboration and partnership model. Um and we're making good strides. So you can see, you know, from, you know, the previous report, there's been a lot of heavy lifting, uh,
going on, and it takes a while to move, you know, the Titanic, so to speak, and and we're we're on the right track. Um, but it's going to take more time. >> And forgive me, and if I remember right, the premise is shared leadership and sitebased decision making and group and
not, and don't take this wrong, meddling from the district office. >> Correct. >> Okay. >> Um, we provide the conditions in which we're going to be successful. We determine the road map with a smaller group which is our instructional cabinet representatives of each building and then we say go with with checks and
balances with um appropriate oversight um to make sure that we all of a sudden aren't going left and we're supposed to go right. >> That's correct. >> Wonderful. >> I just want to say to both of you, thank you because I think this is really a change in the culture and the
transparency. So I appreciate that. That's a big shift that was really I think in the end it'll take a bit but we're going to see that in student achievement because the culture is so very important. >> Another another case study. >> Thank you.
>> Agreed. >> Any other questions or comments? >> All right. >> Well, at this time we need to approve the Q comp report. Correct. All right,
just gonna pull that up. >> Um, so at this time I will entertain a motion to approve the Q comp annual report for 2026. >> Mayor Gordy, I move as presented. >> All right. Motion by Gordy. Second.
Second. >> Second by Pasca. Any other questions or comments? All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. Those opposed? Passes unanimously. All right, moving on to stewardship of
resources. Item A, early retirement incentive approval. Dr. Hoover. >> Yes. Thank you, Chair Johnson. This is something that we've been talking about for several months and um through some different iterations and some back and
forth um the education Minnesota rocker um signed off on this document of which we've discussed previously. Um the contents are all in here but essentially it's a it's put in place um to bridge um some health care costs for our employees
um as they move towards Medicare. And um there's a uh a chart underneath item two, which is the incentive payment uh process. Um the highest amount that an individual could receive is $50,000 in a
lump sum. The lowest is 10,000. Um it's based on years um prior to hitting age 65. Um we believe this is a good use of district dollars um and the savings that we would attain um hiring um we'll call
them less seasoned individuals uh to come into the system asking for your approval tonight on the document that we've had before you and we've talked about this in previous work sessions together. >> Anybody have any questions
at this time I will entertain a motion to approve the early retirement incentive. >> I'll make a motion to approve. >> Motion by Mr. Shadine. >> I'll second. Second by Hilstrom. Any other questions or comments? >> I'll just make a comment. I'll reiterate
the fact that we have had multiple conversations at work session as well as our business manager, our CFO, Miss Peterson, talk about the the numbers um and impact upon um the monies that
support this. So, multiple conversations, not just a short time. >> Yes. Right. >> I appreciate that. Correct. Thank you. All right. Any other questions, comments? All right. At this time, I entertain or I got a motion this time.
All in favor signify by saying I. I. >> Those opposed? Passes unanimously. All right. Next item on the agenda is the 2026 non-renewal of probationary
teachers. And we had an addition um from last month. Generally we put them in one bucket. We did have an addition of one teacher going on the non-renewal. So I asked the board to approve that tonight. >> Any other any comments by At this time
I'll entertain a motion. >> So moved. >> Motion by Gordy. >> Second. >> Second by Shadine. Any other questions or comments? It is a resolution. >> Hi Kevin. Hi >> Jamie Hilstrom. Hi
>> Chris Morgan. >> Hi >> Jessica Johnson. >> Hi >> Betha. >> Hi. >> All right. Our next culture of collective purpose end of year district operational plan presentation. >> Thank you. Um I'm really um happy to
present um our endofear district operational plan and to talk um briefly about our goals. You've had this document um you approved it last year in June I believe you've seen it. Um I did share um updates in January with respect
to our progress. Um so much of this will be um old news for you and I shared a document with live links with you I believe a week ago. Um so this is a document obviously that we do annually um and here is the work that
we've been uh working towards um both the goals themselves the strategies in which we've used the indicators of success um or otherwise and then the time frame um I would say um a good percentage of these goals have been met
in full um I'm going to go through this document really briefly but um again if you have questions please ask um and these are goals not just of of mine and of the colleagues on cabinet and different leads but also goals of the
school district via approval of the school board. So um we follow as you know our district strategic directions that this board has determined um student growth and achievement. You'll see the goals that we set forth there. Again, many of these we've discussed
previously and you do have those links uh in another um format for you if you'd like to look at them. Um so I'll just continue to go down here and point out anything that perhaps we're still working on. Um, one of which is, um, Northwest
Suburban, um, the, uh, family student feedback, which we initiated last year, which is a survey going out to our families, that went out last week, um, and do not have all the results back on that as of yet. Uh, so that goal is still in progress. U, we have aborted
the grant process with Northwest Suburban because the federal grants have pretty much um, disintegrated. they don't really exist anymore underneath um the current administration. Um so there's no grants being provided in that
um regard. Um but for the most part um those other goals um in terms of reflection and review things that we've done um via our Northwest Suburban partnerships have been very successful. Um there's an outdoor um learning uh
center that is a multi-year goal uh with Melissa and her team through community ed that is still on track uh for completion in 2728. Um going into healthy and supportive environment again we're on track with the profile of
a graduate that was started this year. Um, you will see that on the DOP next month for your approval for 27, I'm sorry, 2627 school year with some more specifics there. Um, and then these are the other uh items which they're a
little hard for me to see from far away, but um around student engagement um and things that you've been none of this should be a surprise to anyone because we've been presenting and talking about all of these things throughout the course of this particular school year.
Moving into community school and family partnerships. Um again there's the Rockford at 88.3 seconds of which Courtney has been an intro part in. You've seen those videos uh via social media and on our website. We've done a lot of things with branding
and work with uh third party vendors u eye contact media being one of them um and some open houses and events that we've done at our sites. Um, see, we're off the side here a little
bit. >> I want to mention the um a couple of those things here. There's still work that's um in the area of Galaxy and preschool around um increased alignment with those particular entities. And so, we're continuing with that. Um, if you
haven't had a chance to look through the links, um, I do want to point out the IB credits and the work that, uh, Jill Gord's been doing, um, with folks in the lobbying world and at the legislature, um, in an effort to, um, get some legislation around requiring higher ed
to grant credits uh, via IB, similar to what they do with AP. >> Um, and there was a bill, and I think it's there's a couple of them that were were shared. Um, and uh, it didn't go through this year like a lot of things didn't, but I'm I'm really proud of the efforts and and we're not done, so keep
knocking on that door. Um, again, launching your launch your future, which we've talked about quite a bit. That that's something that we're very proud of and I mentioned recently won an award through the principles association. Um, then increased communication
um, in multiple languages. We do have a language access plan that is required uh by state statute uh and culture of collective purpose. Um lots of work done with our built and bolt and we've talked about that here just a few moments ago. Our work in
instructional cabinet. Um very proud of that um leadership group. Um we kind of call them the Uber builts if you will. They come together three times a year um here at the district and we walk through instructional things and we chart our course again work that was occurring in
with Built and Bolt. Uh the safety committee did a lot of work this year um and you've probably seen some of those things. Um we're going to be talking a little bit more about that in July. Um Jeff Keen will be coming forward and we actually will have a visitor. Uh Jeff has been um he he earned a certificate
through the Department of Homeland Security up around school safety which is pretty intense. Um and he said yeah they gave me this and they said they'd come and I said well then they're coming. So they'll be they'll be here in July um to present Jeff with that certificate at the board meeting.
>> So we've done a lot of work around school safety and I want to really compliment Jeff Kis who of course isn't here. um he's been leading those efforts for us and um it's been really impressive. Um again our onboarding offboarding process
through human resources I want to um really um put a plug in for uh Cindy Gapinsky who has done a lot of work on this. We are automating a lot of things, including something we talked about today that I wanted your opinion before we moved forward with it, which is um
allowing board chair and clerk to um sign um through a digital method on all of our contracts versus having to, you know, go and do it um physically. Um so, but I didn't want to move forward that without talking to you first in that regard. So, um and so we're doing a lot.
We're automating many more things through human resources we've done before including um you know the PF process the on and off boarding process providing um surveys exit interviews with staff and so forth um we're really
proud of that um and then support uh with our support positions again we have been looking into that quite a bit and our collective capacity um of building our building and program leads um I think that's incredibly important We're going to do more of that. You'll see
that coming up on um um with ADOP next month as we bring in and and uh welcome two new administrators to our system, our new activities director and then Jill Gordy. Um so be working with with them as we onboard them to um to their
positions. And so we'll work on that and really work around some different things. You know, I want to point out this clear leadership book. if you haven't read it, um it talks about interpersonal mush and how you can avoid that in systems and really um make it about the work. And so it's fun to hear
our staff re reference that when we have conversations because it removes the um any sort of a personal, you know, it isn't it isn't a personal thing. It's a work thing. It's a student achievement thing. It's it's how we can be better about ourselves. And so I'm really proud about that work. And I have uh two new
books coming out to our staff, our leadership group here in the next couple weeks. Um which is and I'll share this in the next stop two which is lead like lasso if you're familiar with the TED lasso series and then another one about starting with the Y which some of you
might have also read. Um, in terms of stewardship of resources, um, I have to say that the first one, the reviewing of student activity fees, this one was pretty much a done deal. Um, until, um, there was this, uh, skirmish in the Middle East and, um, our
costs for, um, transportation in terms of, you know, gas and so forth have have changed a little bit. So, um um Vice Chair Gordy, Chair Johnson and I have said that we are going to come back and have some conversations with with the board at large to see if we do need to
do anything with activity fees. I'd really like to to not if we could help it. Um maybe something will be resolved in the next month or so. Um but the the real issue is that um we are thankful that our community supported um the passage of our levy, wanting to keep
things reasonable for them because they are paying um through their you know annual tax dollars. Um but we also need to make sure that we stay above water. And so that one is going to be it it once upon a time said goal met but now it's in progress. Um negotiating fair
and fiscally sound employee contracts. As you know, our EMR master contract with our teachers was ratified in November. Um, and we're hopefully going to start with our 284 SEIU group soon. Um, they asked about, I don't know, two months ago for us to open negotiations.
We sent them everything and then it's been crickets. So, we're still waiting to hear back. Um, so they have the costing model, all the information. Um, we will be talking tonight in a closed session um at the conclusion of this meeting about parameters. Um, I have some suggestions and as does Miss
Peterson for the board to consider and the hope is that we will be able to start and end those negotiations rather rapidly um with those parameters in place. Um, same thing with our principal group. I I believe we did a lot of language last time with the principal.
So, I would believe that the contract with them will go really quickly. Um, this one here was a huge one. It said potential levy as you know last year at this time we hadn't made it official. Um this is such a big deal. Um it could
never be said enough. Thank you to the community. Thank you for this board. Thank you for a few of you in this room who put in extra effort to make sure this thing passed. Um it's setting up Rockford very well in the future. Um and we're going to be in a really good spot
there. Um again expenditures on the bonds. This is again goal metimprogress because we did all these things last year thinking we were spending down the money and we're still not there which actually is not the worst thing in the world. So we'll be continuing that work maximizing and aligning our technology
vision vision. Um these goals here were shared via Jeff Kenets. Um they're pretty wordy um but they're all excellent goals that were attained over the course of this uh particular school year. get some work on grants. As you know, Jeff brings in more money in
grants than he costs us. So, um it's always nice to have Jeff round of which, by the way, I'll share he's got one more year with us um then he's going to be moving to retirement, but he said we could probably still get him to hang out with us a little bit um as a contracted individual. So,
>> um cyber training work that's been done. Um there's some things there. Hopefully, you can read that maybe in your spare time. be able to look to do that infrastructures re resource inventory. Um we know what we have here. So um that
is the conclusion of this year's DOT. Um I know you've seen this um you've looked through it and again I'm really proud of the work uh not of myself um but of the staff and the work that's taken place over the course of this school year. um
and this document being a very transparent um and and clear way of which we um share the work that's happening every year here in our district. Any questions on any of that? >> Anybody have any questions? >> Thank you very much for sharing that.
>> You're welcome. >> All right. Item 9B, policy committee review, final reading. We have policy 702, 703, 704, 705. Uh 705.1R, um 706, 707, and 707R.
707 is the attachment and 707R is our policy. Anything come about since our last our first reading at all? All right, policy committee. Anything?
>> I know Eric's so excited about this. All right. At this time, I'll entertain a motion to approve. >> I'll make that motion. >> Motion by Hilstrom. >> Second. >> Second.
>> Second by Prasa. Any other questions or comments? All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. Those opposed. That passes unanimously. All right. Then we have MSBA policy
updates. A final read. We have policy 211, 401, 404, 405, 406, 410, 418, 420, 427, 503r, 515, 520, 530, 513r, 5, sorry, 613r,
615, 616, 618, 619, 620R, 701, 731R, and 807. Anything about any of those policies? All right. At this time, entertain a motion to approve.
>> Gordy, make a motion. >> Motion by Gordy. >> Second. >> Second by Hilstrom. Any other questions or comments? All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> Those opposed? That passes unanimously.
All right. Item 10, community school and family partnership resolution of acknowledgement of contributions and donations. >> Thank you, Chair Johnson. As always, I want to thank all of our donors and there is some pretty substantial dollar
figures and also gifts in kind from our members of our community. And I would like to ask the board to graciously accept the contributions, donations as stated in your board packet. >> I'll make a motion to Accept contributions and donations.
>> All right. Motion by Shadine. >> All second. Is that Jamie? >> Yeah. Second by Hstrom. Any other questions or comments? All right. Since this is a resolution. >> Hi. >> Jamie Hilstrom. I
>> Chris Morgan. >> Hi. >> Eric Gordy. >> Hi. >> Jessica Johnson. >> Hi. >> Betha. >> Hi. Johnson. Good night. Make Um, I want to apologize. Um, I shared with Chair Johnson and Vice Chair Gordy
that we would be having a close session at the end of this. I noticed it didn't make it into this. So, um, unsure if we're able to amend that to add it tonight. >> Yeah, we can make an amend. We can, uh, all we need to do is make a motion to amend and make sure it's recorded, then put it at the bottom.
>> Okay. >> Yes. >> All right. Should we put it after updates? Uh yeah, let's do it after updates. >> Would like to make a motion. >> So, Eric already make a motion to do a whatever number letter it is to go to
close sessions for probably uh or close session to discuss negotiation strategies according to state statute. Something that we'll figure it out. >> Well stated.
>> Yeah. I will second that. >> Are you sending that to you, Jessica? >> You already have. >> Uh, and my email won't open. So, >> I will be putting it in the board packet in just a second. >> Can you just say state what state
statute it is real quick? >> The state statute 13D.03. >> Thank you. According to 13D03. >> All right. >> So, that motion's there. So, >> and I seconded that. All right. Any
other questions or comments? All in favor of adding 10D close session to uh discuss negotiation strategies according to state statute 13D.03. Signify by saying I.
>> Those opposed that passes unanimously. All right. We will move on to 10B. Graduation is Friday, May 29th at 5:00 at the Rockford Community Center. Hope people are uh we need to let Courtney know if
you'll be attending. And if your celebration is uh Friday, June 5th at 7 o'clock in the RHS Commons. Breakfast is provided there. And everybody enjoy. It's the first one I won't be at since
being on the board. All right. Finance Committee meeting Friday, June 12th at 8:15. It's a virtual and board of education work session Monday, June 15th, uh, at 5:30 here in the district office, followed by a regular meeting of
the board at 6:30 and board committee updates. Who would like to go first? >> I can go first. Uh, we had a northwest suburban uh, meeting with leadership and Dan Herman and uh, M. Dr. Hoover was able to join us. We talked about
structure of the organization. Um trying to make sure the board does board work, the executive director is set up to be successful and the superintendent are understanding of what their role is um in the whole deal. So very supportive
from Dr. Ry Hoover to get this set up right. We also went through and talked about our evaluation as well as our interviews that are happening starting this week actually. And I think Dr. Hoover, you're participating in that as well.
>> I will be over there um for the the beginning process for >> Wednesday. >> Yeah. >> Okay, cool. Um, so hopefully by the end of the week we have a new person uh board prep
um with Chair Johnson and Dr. Idaho Hoover and that's about it I think. >> Oh yeah, I should say STEM showcase. >> Oh yeah, >> walk through. >> That was great. >> Yeah, that's me. >> You'd like to Mr. Morgan?
>> Sure. We had uh facilities committee and finance. Um and then senior awards was a cool event again. Good to see. And yeah, that STEM showcase was really fun. That's actually the first time I've been able
to make it. Was really cool. >> It's pretty neat. I'll go next. I had my MSO meeting. We actually went and toured um the facility in Annale, the Scholand School for Girls. Um always fun to tour. And tomorrow night I'm driving to Lichfield
because we're touring Wings, another program that we have. So um'll be doing that tomorrow. Uh board prep call, facilities meeting. Uh Eric and I did uh have a phone call last week just to u discuss superintendent evaluation. Um
that'll be coming out to you guys in the next week and a half here. I'll get that stuff out to you. You'll need to have this on hand and all the links that were shared with you to go over that. Um, and I attended the awards. I have missed
two since I graduated 30 years ago. Um, anyways, yeah, it I I love I love attending that and thank you Dr. Presca for being there to present the board award to the graduates. uh really
appreciate that and uh we had a couple other board members there as well. So that is mine. >> Okay, I can go. I had a very speedy curriculum advisory systems accountability meeting before school one day. Very good job. Thank you. And was
well attended. So I thought it's getting better. And then senior awards night which was amazing. Those are always so uplifting. Yeah. It's just the students are amazing and the community really shows up and it's just yeah fun night.
>> No for me. >> Um I had a staff meeting. Um I also went to the curriculum advisory meeting. I got to attend the STEM showcase and arts and academics at the elementary school.
Um the awards selection committee for our um Leah and Star and awards, um a finance committee meeting, um a chamber lunchon, and then the national honor society
awards, senior awards. Wonderful. Is that survey? All right. I add one more thing. I did do the DAPE extravaganza and um afterwards uh Vinnie who is the
Masiko DAPE teacher. He was talking about wanting a tunnel. I did the obstacle course. That was my station was the obstacle course and they were crawling through hula hoops. Setting up hula hoops for a few hours is is fun because I kept falling over and he's
like I just I would love a big tunnel that the kids in wheelchairs would be able to go through as well. And so um the next week or yeah I think it was the next week we had our Masico board meeting and I talked to the MasiO board if they would be interested in donating
money from the board to get a tunnel and we were able to as a board fund a tunnel and it'll be used for districts to be able to use if they wanted to. It'll be available. It's it's a really cool tunnel too. >> It's really really neat. >> Wonderful. It was just fun to be able to
do that and um the board is really excited to be able to provide that >> because it touches all districts then everybody gets to use it. So >> it was really fun. >> Cool. >> Seriously, if you could ever make it on that day. Oh, >> I wish I could have. I Yeah,
>> it is. >> So, what day was this? I missed the >> um It's It was Wednesday, one of the last Wednesdays in April. Pro second to last Wednesday. During the day extravaganza >> um
>> special day all of their t-shirts with their respectiveities >> Dassel and Lichfield all the kids have a partner general ed kid that comes with them. >> Oh awesome. >> It incredible. And then we had
administrators from other districts come this year because it was the second year they came to see and they were blown away. >> We'll have to get more info on that next >> how incredible it is. And then the step kids um they came and helped at the stations
and >> that was and and their faces when they got to see some of their teachers or parents that they had when they were in school was incredible. And then Rocky was there. Um, the tiger from Delano was
there, the cardinal from Andville was there, and Goldie the gopher came. >> And you were a volunteer and I just volunteered cuz if you look for volunteers, so sign me up for next year. >> All right. >> I'm going to say that those other three are not as cool as Rocky. So, they can
all just >> They all take second, third, and fifth place. Oh, and though I do have to say the mascots have to be ready because some of those kids come running up to hug them and they better be braced because those kids are just barreling at them.
>> It's super fun. >> I will say my daughter still wears her uh her uh >> her shirt. >> The Well, she's got the she got a a medal, too. So, >> she loved that, too. So, the shirt and the metal. So, >> it was Well, and our Ed Foundation provided
>> Yeah. Um the medals for all the kids and food. >> They had they had lunch for all the kids. Subway. >> It was you guys. It was >> I'll bring J. >> Amazing. It was amazing. >> Even if
>> it was incredible. I mean if you want to fill your bucket and have it overflowing for days that is an event to attend. >> It's really cool and it's fun to see all of our Masiko districts together at that event. So
really really recommend. So >> anyways we will chair Johnson. Can I also add I should just let you know I will be out of the country on June 15. So I won't be at that meeting. >> Okay. All right. Um we will move to item
10D our closed section session to um discuss negotiation strategies according to let me read this. All right. The board will enter into
close session to discuss negotiations parameters pursuant to Minnesota statute section 13D.03 03 subdivision one procedure B. The governing body of a public employer may by a majority vote in a public meeting decide to hold a
closed meeting to consider strategies for labor negotiations, including negotiation strategies or developments or discussions and review of labor negotiation proposals con uh conducted pursuant to section 179A.01
to 179A.25. So, >> I'll make a motion to enter into close session. >> All right. >> I'll second. >> Motion by Gordy, second by Hilstrom. Any other questions or comments? >> All in favor signify by saying I.
>> I. Those opposed? That passes unanimously? We are moving into close session at 8:16 p.m. >> Okay. Yeah, that's >> all right. We are back in open session at 8:41 p.m. Um, do I have to say
everybody who's here? >> Nope. >> All right. Uh, at this time, I'll entertain a motion to adjourn. >> Gordy, make a motion to adjurnn. >> First by Eric Gordy. I will second that. >> Uh, second by Kevin. Nope. >> Johnson.
>> I wanted it. >> All right. Any other questions or comments? >> I wanted it. >> All right. All in favor signify by saying I. >> I. Those opposed. Passes unanimously. We are adjourned at 8:42
p.m.