December 15, 2025 at 7:00 PM - Regular Meeting
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1. CALL TO ORDER: Pledge of Allegiance
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2. MEMBERS PRESENT:
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Barsness, T. Reichmann, A. Reichmann, Ogdahl, Lagred, Zavadil, Moeller |
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3. APPROVE AGENDA: (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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Motion by , seconded by , to approve the agenda as presented. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried. |
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4. VISITOR'S COMMENTS:
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OPEN FORUM PROCEDURES: 1. The open forum will be held at the beginning of the meeting. 2. Those wishing to speak should sign up and indicate the topic at the beginning of the meeting. 3. A maximum time of 20 minutes will be allowed for the open forum. 4. A basic guide of three people per topic with a maximum of five minutes per person. 5. Those speaking will state their name and address prior to speaking. 6. Statements should be limited to the issues only. 7. Apply the "Golden Rule" during presentations. 8. The board retains the right to respond or not, but may discuss the item. 9. Personal/Personnel issues will not be heard or discussed |
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5. SPECIAL RECOGNITIONS AND HONORS:
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Steve Entzi The School Board would like to recognize Steve Entzi for his outstanding support and leadership. Steve and his students have assisted the custodial and maintenance departments on numerous occasions, assembling furniture, cutting plexiglass, and completing a wide range of hands-on projects. Their efforts have made a meaningful impact by allowing maintenance staff to focus on larger priorities across the district. The Board extends its sincere appreciation to Steve Entzi for his dedication, teamwork, and continued commitment to supporting our schools and staff. Thank you, Steve! Wonder Wednesday Team The Minnewaska Area School Board would like to formally recognize and honor the Wonder Wednesday Team, Mary Johnsrud, Jennifer Erickson, and Kristal Wendt, for their outstanding work and dedication to our students. In addition to their regular contract responsibilities, this team has devoted countless hours to planning, organizing, and delivering engaging Wonder Wednesday experiences that spark curiosity and excitement for learning. Their commitment goes far beyond a single program; they are intentionally building something sustainable and impactful for our district. |
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6. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING MEETINGS: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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November 17, 2025, Regular School Board Meeting December 1, 2025, Special School Board Meeting Motion by ___________________, seconded by _____________________, to approve the minutes of the meetings as listed above. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried.
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7. SUMMARY OF BILLS:
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Chip Rankin, Superintendent, will present the summary of bills attached to the agenda.
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7.A. CONSIDER AND APPROVE CLAIMS AND ACCOUNTS: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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Motion by ____________________, seconded by ______________________, to approve the Claims & Accounts totaling $2,389,004.67. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried. |
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8. SUPERINTENDENTS REPORT:
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8. SUPERINTENDENT'S REPORT:
1. Special Recognitions Tonight we recognize Steve Entzi and his students for their outstanding support to our custodial and maintenance departments. Their hands-on assistance with furniture assembly, plexiglass cutting, and various projects has allowed our maintenance staff to focus on larger priorities across the district. We also honor the Wonder Wednesday Team—Mary Johnsrud, Jennifer Erickson, and Kristal Wendt—for their exceptional dedication to our students. Beyond their regular contract responsibilities, this team has devoted countless hours to planning, organizing, and delivering engaging Wonder Wednesday experiences that spark curiosity and excitement for learning. 2. December Concert Season Success Our elementary and secondary students have showcased exceptional talent throughout December: • Elementary concerts (K-6) drew strong community attendance and highlighted the excellent work of our music educators • Secondary winter choir concerts on December 13-14 demonstrated remarkable student growth and dedication • 5th & 6th Grade Band Concert scheduled for December 16 These performances reflect the comprehensive arts education our students receive and the dedication of our music staff. 3. Fiscal Actions & Financial Position Tonight's agenda includes three significant financial items: FY2025 Audit Approval (Item #15): CliftonLarsonAllen LLP presented key findings at our November 17 meeting. The finalized audit report is now ready for board approval and demonstrates continued strong fiscal management. Tax Levy Certification (Item #12): Following tonight's Truth in Taxation hearing, the board will certify the 2025 Payable 2026 Tax Levy, maintaining our commitment to responsible budgeting. Certificate of Deposit Authorization (Item #16): We're requesting authorization to open a new $1,000,000 CD with Eagle Bank to maximize returns while maintaining appropriate liquidity. Current budget projections indicate we remain on track to close FY26 at approximately 13% fund balance. 4. Read Act Implementation Progress Planning continues for the mid-January rollout of the Capti Read Basix screening tool for students identified as reading below grade level. Staff training is being scheduled, and we're collaborating with Lakes Country Service Cooperative on paraprofessional training requirements. The K-6 reading team has begun reviewing curriculum aligned with Science of Reading concepts for potential 2025-26 adoption and 2026-27 implementation. 5. Staffing Update Recent personnel actions include: • Successfully filled two intervention positions (Bobbi Jo Johnson and JoAnn Kocher) • Hired Karly Vogel as long-term substitute PE teacher (effective approximately 12/17/2025-4/30/2026) • Added support staff in food service and child care • One paraprofessional resignation (BreAnna Johnson, effective 12/16/2025) All positions are filled heading into second semester, ensuring continuity of services for students. 6. Buildings & Grounds Presentation Director Jeremy Armstrong will provide tonight's building and grounds update, highlighting: • Completion of new water station installations • Progress on MAES boiler repairs • Winter weather preparedness and snow removal operations • Ongoing maintenance projects across the district Our Buildings & Grounds team continues to demonstrate exceptional dedication in maintaining safe, functional facilities for students and staff. 7. Elementary Building Update Principal Sarah Suchy will present "The State of MAES," sharing updates on: • Academic progress and intervention support • PBIS implementation and behavioral outcomes • Read Act preparation activities • Building culture and climate initiatives I'm grateful for Sarah's leadership and the outstanding work of the entire elementary team. 8. Strategic Communications Partnership Katie Elenberger from Spark27 Creative will present an update on communication, marketing, and branding efforts completed during Quarters 1 and 2 of FY26, along with the proposed Q3 contract (January 1 - March 31, 2026). Our partnership with Spark27 has significantly enhanced district communications, community engagement, and our ability to tell the Minnewaska story effectively. 9. Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness Report The board will approve our 2024-2025 CACR Summary for submission to MDE by today's December 15 deadline. This report demonstrates our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in student achievement and civic readiness outcomes. 10. E-Learning Day Reflection Our December 8 e-learning day for grades 7-12 (no school K-6) allowed staff to complete required Read Act training while maintaining instructional continuity for secondary students. Feedback from staff and families has been positive, and we'll continue refining this approach for future professional development needs. 11. Winter Break Schedule Key upcoming dates: • December 23: Early Release at 1:00 PM • December 24-26: Winter Break • December 29-January 2: Extended Winter Break • January 6: Students and Staff Return • January 6: Organizational School Board Meeting at 7:30 AM (District Office Board Room) • January 20: Regular Board Meeting at 6:00 PM (District Office Board Room) SACC will be available during select days of winter break (December 26, 29, 30, 31, and January 2). 12. Community Education & Activities Programming Winter programming continues with strong participation: • Youth basketball and wrestling underway • Adult programming (Open Swim, Women's Strength & Conditioning) continues • Art opportunities through Central Square partnership • ECFE Holiday Party held December 8 with strong family attendance • Winter activities season launched successfully across all programs 13. Looking Ahead to January Second semester priorities include: • Capti Read Basix implementation and dyslexia screening • Continuation of LETRS and OL & LA training • Mid-year data analysis and instructional adjustments • Strategic planning (Blueprint 2030) continued development • Budget development for FY27 • Comprehensive Needs Assessment completion 14. Gratitude As we approach winter break, I want to express sincere appreciation to our staff for their dedication during this busy season of concerts, assessments, and holiday activities. Thank you to our board for your leadership and support, and to our community for your continued investment in Minnewaska Area Schools. On behalf of the administrative team, I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year. We look forward to welcoming students and staff back on January 6, 2026. Respectfully submitted, Chip Rankin Superintendent, Minnewaska Area Schools |
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8.A. INVESTMENT REPORT:
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Chip Rankin, Superintendent, will present the monthly investment report. The report is attached to the agenda.
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8.B. FOODSERVICE REPORT:
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The monthly Food Service Report will be presented by Chip Rankin, Superintendent. The report is attached.
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8.C. REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE REPORTS:
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The monthly Revenue and Expenditure Reports are attached to the agenda and will be presented by Superintendent, Chip Rankin.
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8.D. LITTLE LAKERS CHILD CARE CENTER REPORT:
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The monthly Little Lakers Child Care Center Report will be presented by Chip Rankin, Superintendent. The report is attached.
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9. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. 12152025 ACCEPTING DONATIONS TO THE SCHOOL DISTRICT: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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Motion by _____________________, seconded by _________________, to approve Resolution No. 12152025 accepting the donations to the school district. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried.
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10. CONSENT CALENDAR: (ACTION)
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Motion by ___________________, seconded by __________________, to approve the consent calendar as listed above. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried. |
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10.A. New Hires:
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Brian Gruber, Junior High Baseball Coach, BS+10 Step 10, effective 03/01/2025 Bobbi Jo Johnson, Intervention, MA+15 Step 3, effective 12/01/2025 Paul Johnson, Junior High Baseball Coach, BS+10 Step 3, effective 03/01/2025 JoAnn Kocher, Intervention, MA+45 Step 1, effective 11/24/2025 Adrianne Resch, Cook, Grade 4 Step 11, effective 11/24/2025 Karly Vogel, Paraprofessional, Grade 5 Step 3, effective 11/24/2025-12/16/2025 Karly Vogel, Long-Term Substitute Physical Education Teacher, BS Step 1, effective approx. 12/17/2025-4/30/2026 Jordyn Walstrom, School Age Child Care Assistant, Grade 5 Step 5, effective 11/24/2025 |
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10.B. Resignations:
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BreAnna Johnson, Paraprofessional, effective 12/16/2025 |
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11. CONSIDER REQUEST TO APPROVE SPARK 27 CREATIVE CONTRACT FOR THE THIRD QUARTER OF FISCAL YEAR 2026: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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Katie Elenberger, Spark27 Founder and Creative Brand Strategist, will be in attendance to provide an update on communication, marketing, and branding efforts completed during Quarters 1 and 2 of Fiscal Year 2026. She will also present the proposed contract for Quarter 3, covering the period of January 1, 2026 - March 31, 2026, which includes continued strategic support and key initiatives to enhance district communication and outreach. Following school board dialogue and questions, the administration recommends that the school board approve the proposed Spark27 contract for Quarter 3 of FY26.
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12. REQUEST FOR MAS SCHOOL BOARD TO CERTIFY THE 2025 PAYABLE 2026 TAX LEVY: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
Presenter:
Superintendent Chip Rankin
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Superintendent Chip Rankin presented the proposed 2025 Payable 2026 Tax Levy at the Truth in Taxation Meeting earlier this evening. The administration recommends the school board take action to approve the final certification of 2025, payable 2026 tax Levies as presented. A formal motion identifying all proposed levy amounts is shown below. Following discussion, a motion is recommended: Motion by , seconded by , to certify the 2025 Payable 2026 Levy Limitation as presented.
ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried.
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13. PRESENTATION AND UPDATE FROM BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS DEPARTMENT:
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Buildings and Grounds Director Jeremy Armstrong will give a presentation and update on the department. |
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14. PRESENTATION AND UPDATE FROM MINNEWASKA AREA ELEMENTARY SCHOOL:
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Minnewaska Area Elementary School Principal, Sarah Suchy will give a presentation and update on the elementary school.
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15. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF FY2025 AUDIT REPORT: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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At the November 17, 2025 Regular School Board Meeting, representatives from CliftonLarsonAllen LLP, Mary Reedy and Becca Nielsen presented the key figures, major findings, and overall takeaways from the District’s 2024-2025 financial statement audit. The audit report has since been finalized and provided to board members for review. Administration recommends approval of the finalized 2024-2025 Financial Statement Report. Motion by ____________________, seconded by ______________________, to approve the Fiscal Year 2025 Audit. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller ____ Motion carried.
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16. CONSIDER AUTHORIZATION TO OPEN NEW CERTIFICATE OF DEPOSIT (CD): (ROLL CALL VOTE) (ACTION)
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The District intends to open a new Certificate of Deposit (CD) in the amount of $1,000,000 with Eagle Bank. In order to proceed, the Board must formally authorize designated signers to execute all necessary paperwork. Approval is requested to grant signing authority to the School Board Chair, Chad Barssness, and Superintendent, Charles "Chip" Rankin, for the establishment of this account. Motion by ___________________, seconded by _____________________, to approve School Board Chair Chad Barsness and Superintendent Charles "Chip" Rankin to open a new Certificate of Deposit (CD) in the amount of $1,000,000 with Eagle Bank, and to sign all related documents necessary to establish and maintain said CD. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried. |
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17. REQUEST TO ADOPT THE RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A COMBINED POLLING PLACE FOR MULTIPLE PRECINCTS AND DESIGNATING HOURS DURING WHICH THE POLLING PLACE WILL REMAIN OPEN FOR VOTING FOR SCHOOL DISTRICT ELECTIONS NOT HELD ON THE DAY OF A STATEWIDE ELECTION: (ACTION) (APPENDIX) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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Minnesota Statutes state that a resolution must be approved each year establishing a combined polling place for school district elections not held on the day of a statewide election. Motion by ____________________, seconded by ______________________, to approve the resolution Establishing a Combined Polling Place for multiple precincts and designating hours during which the polling place will remain open for the school district elections not held on the day os a statewide eleciton. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried.
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18. CONSIDER APPROVAL OF THE 2024-2025 COMPREHENSIVE ACHIEVEMENT AND CIVIC READINESS REPPORT: (APPENDIX) (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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The Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness (CACR) Summary is to be completed and submitted to the Minnesota Department of Education by December 15 each year. Following the school board discussion, the administration requests school board authorization to submit to MDE the 2024-2025 CACR Summary. Motion by , seconded by , to approve the 2024-2025 Comprehensive Achievement and Civic Readiness Summary as presented. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann____, A. Reichmann ____, Ogdahl____, Lagred ____ Zavadil____,Moeller ____ Motion carried.
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19. OTHER:
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20. ANNOUNCEMENTS:
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21. ADJOURN: (ACTION) (ROLL CALL VOTE)
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Motion by _____________________, seconded by ______________________, to adjourn the Regular Meeting at _________ p.m. Motion carried. ROLL CALL VOTE: Barsness _____, T. Reichmann ____, A. Reichamnn ____, Ogdahl ____, Lagred____, Zavadil ____ Moeller____ Motion carried. |
