November 14, 2023 at 5:00 PM - Board of Education Regular Meeting

Discussion:  There was a question asked by the public if they were going to do an interview in order to fill the vacant spot on the board. Marcia Herring said that we can ask questions if they are consistent. The vacancy must be discussed in open session. Only one individual will be nominated, a motion must be made, seconded, and then a vote can be conducted in order to fill the vacancy.

Discussion:  Miss Fuhrer and Mr.Brazell discussed the expenses and that we were over spending. Miss Fuhrer discussed working on the Activity Fund.

Discussion:  Caitlin Sharp from TNTP gave a report showing data and where we are standing on that. Mrs.Sharp discussed Chronic Absenteeism. Each school is on track on goal - but we need to start discussing structural options for HS students. Mrs.Sharp explained that TNTP gave staff a survey. From the Priority Plan: Isanti Community Schools will administer surveys for staff tri-annually, and bi-yearly surveys for students and families to understand their experiences related to the vision of the school. Mrs.Nagel is excited about getting the staff involved and having their voices heard. Mr.LaPlante said he is interested in seeing the results from the staff surveys. Mr.LaPlante discussed that the board would be able to view the surveys without the administration in the meeting to protect staff from their data being discussed. Mr.LaPlante said he would like to have teachers, paras, and staff members to come in and hear from the staff instead of only having a report from the supervisors. 

Discussion:  Mrs. Leah Thomas, the Indigenous Curriculum Consultant. Mrs. Thomas discussed her background and how she is tied to Isanti. Mrs. Thomas talked about the schools that they had and how they were stripping their culture from them. She stated that we are able to flip the switch and start Indigenising our school. Mrs.Thomas discussed the purpose; flipping the switch to now using the education system to teach our own culture, language and identity. She wants to make sure the kids have constant encouragement to learn with love, compassion, and truth. Mr.LaPlante is wondering how we decided to bring in a consultant or how this idea came about. Mr.LaPlante says that he is on board and that he wants the children to learn about their culture. He believes that we need a better plan for scheduling time with instructors.  

Mrs.Thomas said that she contacts all teachers via email to talk about where they are at. Mrs.Thomas states that this work is done with respect, love, and care. Mrs.Thomas said that the administrators asked her to stay within the school. 17 years ago, she was given a crash course on how to create a curriculum. 

Mr.LaPlante is wondering if we should have a full-time position instead of a consultant. 

Discussion:  Carol Brandt-Denney discussed that Walmart will only let us do an ACH or Wire payment. The Gift Cards will not be sent until they receive the payment. Mr. Mroczek said that he would like to give them out on December 6th.

Discussion:  James Larson is talking about the Senior Trip. The seniors have decided on a cruise. They have marred it down to two cruises. The first one is $1277 per person. The second option is $1369 per person. The estimate would be $25,000. For fundraisers, there is the buffalo hunt, a saddle that was made by the students, and making landyards and wristlets. 

Discussion:  Roni Starlin, Doug Widow, Danielle LaPointe, Vietta Swalley, Kameron Runnels, Anthony Kitto, and Janelle Whipple were asked the questions below.

What motivates you to become a board member at Isanti Community Schools?
What attributes and behaviors are essential for a school board member to exhibit?
What qualities would you bring to the Board of Education?
What is your vision for education in Isanti Community School District?

Kameron Runnels decided to pull his application for the School Board Member position.

Discussion:  Attendance is looked at weekly. An update was given on how we are getting our students to make up for missed time. 

Discussion:  Bella Johns is seeking early graduation. She would like to graduate early and sign a contract to join the military for 3 years. Ms. Johns is currently in the 2024-2025 cohort. She would like to graduate this May 2024.