## AGENDA ## Independent School District No. 77 ## Mankato, MN 56001 Monday, May 18, 2026 - 5:30 p.m. ## Intergovernmental Center - Minnesota River Room ## 1.CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL (5:30 P.M.) ## 2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA (5:30 P.M.) ## 3.CONSENT AGENDA (5:35 P.M.) ## A.Approval of Minutes of May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting ## B.Approval of May Bills ## C.Personnel ## 4.ADJOURNMENT (5:40 P.M.) ## School Board Members for 2026 ## Shannon Sinning, Chair Phone: 507-207-4023 E-Mail: ssinni1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2026 ## Kari Pratt, Vice Chair Phone: 507-207-4025 E-Mail: kpratt1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2026 ## Patrick Baker, Treasurer Phone: 507-207-4028 E-Mail: pbaker1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2026 ## Erin Roberts, Clerk Phone: 507-207-4026 E-Mail: erober1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2028 ## Elizabeth Hanke Phone: 507-207-4030 E-Mail: ehanke1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2028 ## Christopher Kind Phone: 507-207-4027 E-Mail: ckind1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2028 ## Liz Ratcliff Phone: 507-207-4029 E-Mail: eratcl1@isd77.org ## Term Ends December 31, 2028 ## Paul Peterson, Superintendent ## 10 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 2 ## Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: 387-1868 E-Mail: ppeter1@isd77.org ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 3. A. ## Meeting Date:05/18/2026 ## Prepared By:Paul Peterson, Superintendent ## Item Type: ## Subject: ## Approval of Minutes of May 4, 2026, Regular Meeting ## Background: See attachment. ## Recommended Action: Recommend approval of the minutes and proceedings as attached. ## Attachments Minutes - May 4, 2026 ## SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES ## INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 77 ## Mankato, Minnesota May 4, 2026 The School Board of Independent School District No. 77 met in regular session on Monday, May 4, in the Mankato Room - Intergovernmental Center. Chair Sinning called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Members present at roll call: Patrick Baker, Elizabeth Hanke, Christopher Kind, Kari Pratt, Liz Ratcliff, Erin Roberts, and Shannon Sinning. Absent: None. Mrs. Pratt made a motion, and Mrs. Ratcliff seconded, approval of the agenda together with a Personnel Addendum. The motion carried on a 7-0 voice vote. MAPS Student Spotlight : Thilamar Them- Prairie Winds Middle School. MAPS Staff Spotlight : Brittany Ward - Washington. Public Comment : No one wished to speak. Information Reports : Coordinate Early Intervening Services (CEIS) Report presented by Samanatha Steinman; Jefferson Elementary School Forest Report presented by Melissa Brueske and Jesse Pigman; Language Access Plan Report presented by Travis Olson; Board Member Workshop/Committee/Student Reports. Public Hearing for 2017 Operating Referendum Renewal Plan. Amanda Heilman provided background information. Chair Sinning declared the public hearing open. No Citizens wished to speak and Chair Sinning closed the hearing. The consent agenda items outlined below were approved on a motion by Mrs. Ratcliff, seconded by Mr. Kind, and carried on a 7-0 roll call vote. Approval of Minutes of the April 20, 2026, regular Board meeting. Personnel : ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-AFFILIATED) Polly Olthoff - ABE Distance Learning Program Supervisor at Lincoln Community Center beginning July 1, 2026. This is a full-time, 12-month, Non-affiliated, 240-day work year position with an annual salary of $66,220.80. She will be eligible for Category III benefits. ## APPOINTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Tristin Doster - Full-time (1.00 FTE) 4th Grade Teacher at Eagle Lake Elementary School beginning August 24, 2026, training August 11, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting Benjamin Edwards - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Spanish Teacher at West High School beginning August 24, 2026. He will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Megan Geraets - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Science Teacher at West High School beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Jessica Harder - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Kindergarten Teacher at Franklin Elementary School beginning August 24, 2026, training August 11, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. Roisin Haslam - Full-time (1.00 FTE) 3rd Grade Teacher at Monroe Elementary School beginning August 24, 2026, training August 11, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. Eric Kehoe - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Science Teacher at West High School beginning August 24, 2026, training July 1, 2026. He will be placed at step 10 of the M+30 lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Liv Musel-Staloch - ABE Teacher with the Adult Basic Education Program for 769 annual hours (0.53 FTE) beginning July 1, 2026. She will be placed at step 10 of the Bachelor’s Lane on the ABE Teacher salary schedule. Emma Portner - Change in assignment from 5th Grade Teacher to 2nd Grade Teacher at Bridges Community School beginning August 24, 2026, training August 11, 2026. The following will be teachers in the Camp Ignite Summer Program for 4.5 hours per day/4 days per week (M-TH) beginning July 6 and ending July 30, 2026. They will be compensated according to their placement on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Amy Bailey, Beth Baker, Kristin Baty, Daniel Blaisdell, Daniel Blasl, Amanda Bomstad, Cindy Borth, Gweneth Case, Adam Hanson, Cynthia Hashimoto, Jenna Helget, Sherry Imhoff, Amelia Jirak, Jessica Kelly, Jennifer Kluntz, Kristin Krusemark, Kayla Lewis, Kristen Lewis, Molly Lout, Michelle Modrow, Katherine Rux, Angela Sawatzky, Megan Schulz, Angela Sheldrup, Alysha Smook, Abby Steffensmeier, Jeremy Steffensmeier, Gina Vanslow, Kyle Vanslow, Parker Winning ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Bree Barden - ACES Child Care Associate at Franklin Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. Everett Ehlers - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute at Washington Elementary School on an on-call basis beginning May 4, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Fatuma Hassen - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Sarah Heuer - Summer School Secretary with Camp Ignite for 5 hours per day/4 days a week (M-TH) beginning July 6 and ending July 30, 2026. She will be compensated according to her placement on the Educational Secretaries Association salary schedule. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting Sarah Jordan - Community Education Site Operations & Safety Associate at Lincoln Community Center for 10-15 hours per week beginning May 1, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $12.00 per hour. Akawye Nyigwo - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Amanda Robinson - Summer School Secretary with Camp Ignite for 5 hours per day/4 days a week (M-TH) beginning July 6 and ending July 30, 2026. She will be compensated according to her placement on the Educational Secretaries Association salary schedule. Isabelle Schimmel - Health & Wellness Paraeducator at SUN for 7 hours per day/3 days per week (M/W/F) beginning April 27, 2026. She will be placed at classification B22.5, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. Nora Sidwell - ACES Child Care Associate at Franklin Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 5, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Emma Andries - Change in assignment from ACES Site Lead at Rosa Parks Elementary School to ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 1, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $17.00 per hour. ## REQUESTS FOR LEAVE (INSTRUCTIONAL) Friday Gora - Special Education Teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has requested unpaid leave for the 2026-27 and 2027-28 school years. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-AFFILIATED) Mary Kate Lewis - ABE Distance Learning Program Supervisor with the Adult Basic Education Program, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be July 3, 2026. Liv Musel-Staloch - ABE ESL Program Specialist with the Adult Basic Education Program, has submitted a resignation in order to accept the ABE Teaching position. The last day for this assignment will be June 30, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Jordyn Lee - 5th Grade Teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. Emily Oberdeck - 5th Grade Teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. Polly Olthoff - ABE Teacher and Adult Basic Education Program Secretary with the Adult Basic Education Program, has submitted a resignation in order to accept the ABE Distance Learning Program Supervisor position. The last day for these assignments will be June 30, 2026. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Brooklyn Garvey - ACES Child Care Assistant at Bridges Community School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Ashlyn Guse - ACES Child Care Assistant and ACES Site Lead Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Nashira Johnson Willis - Second Cook at Jefferson Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Cindy Juberian - Second Cook at Roosevelt Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 12, 2026. Macy Klejeski - ACES Child Care Assistant at Eagle Lake Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Dawn Kutil - Secretary to the Principal at Prairie Winds Middle School, has submitted a resignation for the purpose of retirement. The last day of employment will be June 30, 2026. Kelsey Leonard - Non-Classroom Paraeducator at Washington Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day for this assignment will be May 18, 2026. She will continue as the Media Assistant at Washington Elementary School. Madison Mattson - Student Success Coach at Bridges Community School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be April 23, 2026. Piper Sandvik - Early Learning Classroom Aide at MAPS Center for Learning, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be April 27, 2026. Diana Snow - Non-classroom Paraeducator and Special Education Paraeducator at Bridges Community School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Danielle Steckler - Early Learning Classroom Aide and Early Learning Special Education Paraeducator at MAPS Center for Learning, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 1, 2026. Celeste Thalhammer - ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 5, 2026. Marion Volk - Evening Custodian at East High School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be April 28, 2026. ## Personnel – Addendum ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-AFFILIATED) Lindsey Schull - ABE Employment Program Supervisor with the Adult Basic Education Program beginning July 1, 2026. This is a full-time, 12-month, Non-affiliated, 220-day work year position with an annual salary of $60,702.40. She will be eligible for Category III benefits. ## APPOINTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Jake Aukes - Adjust salary placement as Special Education Teacher at Franklin Elementary School from B step 5 to B step 6 beginning August 24, 2026. Jacob Dolter - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Social Studies Teacher at Prairie Winds Middle School beginning August 24, 2026. He will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Julia Milne - Temporary Summer assignment as ABE ESL Teacher with the Adult Basic Education Program for 2.25 hours per day/2 evenings a week (T/W) beginning June 9 and ending July 29, 2026. She will be placed at step 10 of the Masters Lane on the ABE Teachers Association salary schedule. ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Janee Buesing - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Lillian Considine - ACES Child Care Assistant at Franklin Elementary School for 4-5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Joselyn Ellis - ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis at Franklin Elementary School beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $17.00 per hour. This is in addition to her Special Education Paraeducator assignment at Prairie Winds Middle School. Megan Geraets - ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis at Franklin Elementary School beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $16.00 per hour. This is in addition to her Substitute Teacher and Coaching assignments. Mia Graff - ACES Child Care Associate at Washington Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. Kaleia Hanson - ACES Child Care Associate at Washington Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. Reese Hilsenbeck - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning April 16, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour for this assignment. This is in addition to her ACES Student Support Assistant assignment at Washington Elementary School. Lindy Heuer - ACES Child Care Associate at Franklin Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting Romey Hinz - ACES Child Care Associate at Franklin Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. Wayne Howell - 8-hour, 12-month Evening Custodian at Lincoln Community Center beginning May 6, 2026. He will be placed at classification A13, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. Izaac Kehler - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 4, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. This is in addition to his Early Learning Classroom Aide assignment at MAPS Center for Learning. Addisyn Krause - ACES Child Care Assistant at Franklin Elementary School for 4-5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Savannah Lewis - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Tianna Meadows - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis at Franklin Elementary School beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. This is in addition to her Early Learning Classroom Aide assignment at MAPS Center for Learning. Maverick Mundt - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning May 14, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. The following will be Cooks with the Summer Nutrition Program beginning May 26 and ending August 21, 2026. They will be compensated according to their placement on the Minnesota School Employees Association salary schedule. Samantha Bauleke, Sherilyn Becker, Justin Borden, Mary Chatleain, Lori Dunford, Jill Enggren, Hailey Fjoser, Stephanie Heitzer, Nerissa Hoag, Denise Houg, Pamela Kind, Jillian Krueger, Casey Kuderer, Rochelle Lane, Amy Larsen, Lisa Lawrence, Breah Lueck, Kara Morness, Maria Nett, ## Kassie Shelton, Tracy Steffen, Tierra Tester ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-AFFILIATED) Jennifer E Johnson - Change in assignment from Employment Program Supervisor to ABE ESL Program Specialist with the Adult Basic Education Program. This is a full-time, 12-month, Non-affiliated, 220-day work year position with an annual salary of $60,702.40. She will be eligible for Category III benefits. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Owen Finch - Increase in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Monroe Elementary School from 3 hours per day/2 days per week (T/TH) and 4.75 hours per day/3 days per week (M/W/F) to 6.5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 4, 2026. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting Lisa Hammond - Decrease in assignment as Second Cook from 8 hours per day/5 days per week at Rosa Parks Elementary School to 7 hours per day/5 days per week at Eagle Lake Elementary School beginning August 20, 2026. Rogan Kelling - Increase in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Monroe Elementary School from 5.5 hours per day/2 days per week (T/TH), 4 hours per day/1 day per week (M), and 4.5 hours per day/1 day per week (F) to 5.5 hours per day/2 days per week (T/TH), 4 hours per day/1 day per week (M), 4.25 hours per day/1 day per week (W), and 6.5 hours per day/1 day per week (F) beginning May 6, 2026. Adella Maisuk - Increase in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Monroe Elementary School from 2.25 hours per day/2 days per week (M/W), 4.75 hours per day/1 day per week (TH), and 6 hours per day/1 day per week (F) to 6.25 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 4, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Lindsey Schull - ABE teacher with the Adult Basic Education Program at Lincoln Community Center, has submitted a resignation in order to accept the ABE Employment Program Specialist position. The last day for this assignment will be June 30, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Eleanor Gregoire - ACES Site Lead Substitute and ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 6, 2026. Megan Haan - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 4, 2026. Adriana Oswald - ACES Student Support Assistant at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 1, 2026. Jada Sorenson - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Miranda Suess - ACES Site Lead Substitute and ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Abigail Thole - Special Education Paraeducator at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day for this assignment will be May 18, 2026. She will continue as ACES Site Lead Substitute and ACES Child Care Assistant assignments at Rosa Parks Elementary School. Kenneth Watson - Non-classroom Paraeducator at Eagle Lake Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be April 30, 2026. ## TERMINATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Tianna Ebnet - Media Assistant at Jefferson Elementary School, effective May 19, 2026. The foll owing resolution was moved by Mr. Kind and seconded by Mrs. Pratt and carried on a 7-0 roll call vote: ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting ## RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATIONS WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 123B.02, Subd. 6 provides: “The board may receive, for the benefit of the district, bequests, donations, or gifts for any proper purpose and apply the same to the purpose designated. In that behalf, the board may act as trustee of any trust created for the benefit of the district, or the benefit of pupils thereof, including trusts created to provide pupils of the district with advanced education after completion of high school, in the advancement of education.”; and WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 465.03 provides: “Any city, county, school district or town may accept a grant or devise of real or personal property and maintain such property for the benefit of its citizens in accordance with the terms prescribed by the donor. Nothing herein shall authorize such acceptance or use for religious or sectarian purposes. Every such acceptance shall be by resolution of the governing body adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members, expressing such terms in full.”; and WHEREAS, every such acceptance shall be by resolution of the governing body adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members, expressing such terms in full; THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School Board of Mankato Area Public Schools, ISD77, gratefully accepts the following donations as identified below: ● Melodee & Todd Hoffner donated $6,000 for Mankato East & West High Schools for ## Mental Health Programs ● Prairie Lakes Regional Arts Council donated $3,000 for Dakota Meadows Middle School ## for Summer Play Production The following policies were presented for second reading and approval: 422 - Policies Incorporated by Reference 426 - Insurance - Eliminated 438 - Consulting - Eliminated ## 462 - Extended Leaves for School Related Trips 535 - Commencement 606 - Textbooks and Instructional Materials 610 - Field Trips 630 - Reconsideration of Textbooks or Other Instructional Materials - move to Policy 606 719 - Payroll Periods - Eliminated The revised policies were approved on a motion by Mrs. Pratt, second by Mrs. Ratcliff, and carried on a 7-0 voice vote. Melissa Brueske, Jefferson Elementary School Principal presented the establishment of a school forest at Jefferson Elementary School. A motion was made by Mrs. Ratcliff to approve the establishment of a school forest at Jefferson Elementary School. The motion was seconded by Mrs. Pratt and carried on a 7-0 voice vote. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting ## RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH AND MAINTAIN SCHOOL FOREST AT JEFFERSON ELEMENTARY FOR ## INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT#0077 WHEREAS , the Independent School District #0077 has developed property at 100 James Ave., Mankato MN for the purpose of providing elementary education programming that engages participants in learning in nature. BE IT RESOLVED , by the Board of Education of Independent School District #0077, Mankato Area Public Schools, will establish and maintain the property at 100 James Ave, Mankato MN identified as Jefferson Elementary School, to include a school forest comprising of: ● Part of Blue Earth County Parcel R01.09.18.357.001. ● Located in the SE corner of the school-owned parcel located in the SW1/4 of the SW1/4 of Section 18, Township 108N, Range 26W, proceed north along the parcel line 447 ft, then northwest 383 ft along property boundary, then west 267 ft along property boundary, then 292 ft southeast along sidewalk, then southeast for 180 ft following a line parallel to the sidewalk but 20 ft away from the building, then west 44 ft and then back southeast 131 ft following a line parallel to the sidewalk but 20 ft away from the building, then east 27 ft to the base of the bluff, then southeast for 240 ft parallel to sidewalk, then back to the beginning. ● The property described is approximately 3.24 acres. BE IT RESOLVED , by the Board of Education of Independent School District #0077, Mankato Area Public Schools, to support enrollment of said school forest in the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources School Forest Program for educational purposes. Mrs. Ratcliff made a motion that was seconded by Mr. Kind the approval of resolution relating to renewal of an expiring referendum. The motion carried on a 7-0 roll vote. ## RESOLUTION RELATING TO RENEWAL OF AN EXPIRING REFERENDUM WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 126C.17, Subd. 9b, allows the School Board to renew an expiring referendum. WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 126C.17, Subd. 9b, sets forth the following requirements to renew an expiring referendum: 1) The per pupil amount of the referendum is the same as the amount expiring, or for an expiring referendum that was adjusted annually by the rate of inflation, the same as the per-pupil amount of the expiring referendum, adjusted annually for inflation in the same manner as if the expiring referendum had continued; 2) the term of the renewed referendum is no longer than the initial term approved by the voters; 3) the school board has held a meeting and allowed public testimony on the proposed renewal; and 4) the expiring referendum has not been previously renewed under Minnesota Statutes 126C17, Subd. 9b. ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting WHEREAS, the expiring referendum is within the last two fiscal years of the term of the referendum. BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of Independent School District No. 77 Mankato Area ## Public Schools, State of Minnesota, as follows: The Board hereby determines and declares that it is necessary and expedient for the school district to extend and renew the general education revenue provided by an expiring referendum passed by the voters of the school district on November 7, 2017. The proposed new authorization is the same amount as the expiring authorization and will be applicable for a term of 10 years beginning with taxes payable in 2028. The clerk is authorized to send this adopted resolution, no later than September 1 of the calendar year in which this resolution was adopted, to the commissioner of the education and to the county auditor of each county in which the school district is located in whole or in part. This resolution becomes effective 60 days after adoption. There being no further business to consider, Ms. Roberts moved and Mrs. Ratcliff seconded, that the meeting be adjourned. The meeting was declared adjourned at 6:47 p.m., on a 7-0 voice vote. ## Clerk ## Attest: ## Chairperson ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting ## SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES ## INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 77 ## Mankato, Minnesota May 4, 2026 The School Board of Independent School District No. 77 met in regular session on Monday, May 4, in the Mankato Room - Intergovernmental Center. Chair Sinning called the meeting to order at 5:30 p.m. Members present at roll call: Patrick Baker, Elizabeth Hanke, Christopher Kind, Kari Pratt, Liz Ratcliff, Erin Roberts, and Shannon Sinning. Absent: None. 1. Pratt/Ratcliff approval of agenda with personnel addendum. 7-0 ## 2. MAPS Student Spotlight: Thilamar Them ## 3. MAPS Staff Spotlight: Brittany Ward 4. Public Comment: No one wished to speak. 5. Information: CEIS Report, Jefferson Forest Report, Language Access Plan Report, Board Member/Student Reports. 6. Public Hearing: 2017 Operating Referendum Renewal Plan - No one wished to speak. 6. Ratcliff/Kind approval of Consent Agenda Items: Approval of Minutes: April 20, 2026. Approval of Personnel. 7-0 7. Kind/Pratt acceptance of gifts. 7-0 8. Pratt/Ratcliff approval of second/final reading of board policies. 7-0 9. Ratcliff/Pratt approval establishing school forest at Jefferson Elementary School. 7-0 10. Ratcliff/Kind approval of resolution relating to renewal of an expiring referendum. 7-0 11. Roberts/Ratcliff adjournment at 6:47 p.m. 7-0 ## Independent School District No. 77 ## Mankato, Minnesota ## By: Erin Roberts The complete minutes and all documents relating to this meeting are on file and available for review in the Superintendent’s Office, 10 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 2 and on-line at www.isd77.org . ## Minutes of May 4, 2026, School Board Meeting ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 3. B. ## Meeting Date:05/18/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Item Type: ## Subject: ## Approval of May Bills ## Background: At our meeting on Monday evening, the administrative team will be prepared to answer any questions you might have regarding the report on claims and accounts for May. The total of the bills for May of 2026 is $12,311,633.94. ## Recommended Action: The claims are recommended for payment as presented. ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 3. C. ## Meeting Date:05/18/2026 ## Prepared By:John Lustig, Director of Administrative Services ## Item Type: ## Subject: ## Personnel ## Background: ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-AFFILIATED) ## Jessica Ahlers - Paraeducator Services Coordinator with Student Support Services beginning July 1, 2026. This is a full-time, 12-month, Non-affiliated position with an annual salary of $102,722. She will be eligible for Category III Benefits. ## APPOINTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) ## Amanda Brown - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher at Prairie Winds Middle School beginning August 31, 2026, and ending June 11, 2027. She will be placed at step 2 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Ethan Davide - Full-time (1.00 FTE) English Language Arts Teacher at West High School beginning August 24, 2026. He will be placed at step 5 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Kristin Enz - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Early Childhood Special Education Teacher at MAPS Center for Learning beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 10 of the M lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Rachel Guentzel - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher at Washington Elementary School beginning August 24, 2026, and ending June 11, 2027. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. Christine Karst - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher at East High School beginning August 31, 2026, and ending June 11, 2027. She will be placed at step 10 of the M lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Carrie Nolan - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher at Prairie Winds Middle School beginning August 24, 2026, and ending June 11, 2027. She will be placed at Step 3 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Grace Rydeen - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Interventionist at MAPS Center for Learning beginning August 24, 2026, and ending June 11, 2027. She will be placed at step 1 of the B+30 lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. ## Christopher Willette - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher at Washington Elementary School beginning August 31, 2026, and ending June 11, 2027. He will be placed at step 8 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Elijah Brink - Summer Grounds Worker with the District for 8 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 26, and ending August 28, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $15.50 per hour. This is in addition to his Physical Education Teacher assignment at Rosa Parks Elementary School. ## Raven Brown - ABE Teaching Assistant with the Adult Basic Education Summer Program for 2.25 hours per day/2 days per week beginning June 9 and ending July 29, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $17.00 per hour. This is in addition to her Special Education Paraeducator assignment at Rosa Parks Elementary School. Nathan Osborne - Summer Grounds Worker with the District for 8 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 26, and ending August 28, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $15.50 per hour. This is in addition to his Physical Education Teacher assignment at Hoover Elementary and Rosa Parks Elementary Schools. Kirsten Skinner - Secretary to the Principal at West High School beginning May 18, 2026. This is a full-time, 12-month position. She will be placed at step 5, classification B22 of the Educational Secretaries Association salary schedule. ## Adyson Troldahl - Community Education Site Operations & Safety Associate at Lincoln Community Center for up to 15 hours per week beginning May 11, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $12.00 per hour. ## Kamiah Underland - ACES Child Care Associate at Franklin Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. Melissa Vaubel - Health Care Paraeducator (LPN), site to be determined, for 6.5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning September 8, 2026. She will be placed at classification B23, step 4, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. ## Peyton Zrust - ACES Child Care Associate at Washington Elementary School for up to 20 hours per week beginning May 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $13.00 per hour. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) ## Dayna Aslesen - Increase in assignment as Student Success Coach at Bridges Community School from 4.58 hours per day/4 days per week (M-TH) and 6.67 hours per day/1 day per week (F) to 7.33 hours per day/5 days per week beginning April 22, 2026. ## Ava Boswell - Increase hourly rate to $17.00 as ACES Student Support Assistant at Rosa Parks Elementary School beginning August 18, 2025. This is in addition to her Building Supervisor assignment with Community Education. ## Joselyn Ellis - Increase in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Prairie Winds Middle School from 6.67 hours per day/3 days per week (M/W/F) and 3.42 hours per day/1 day per week (TH) to 6.67 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 7, 2026. This is in addition to her ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute assignment at Franklin Elementary School. ## Amanda M Kozitza - Decrease in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Rosa Parks Elementary School from 4.83 hours per day/5 days per week to 4.33 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 3, 2026. This is in addition to her Non-classroom Paraeducator assignment at Rosa Parks Elementary School. ## Grace Palmquist - Change in assignment from ACES Site Lead Substitute to ACES Student Support Assistant at Franklin Elementary School for 6-8 hours per day/5 days per week beginning May 19, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.00 per hour. Kristina Plonske - Change in assignment from Student Information Secretary to Secretary to the Principal at Prairie Winds Middle School beginning July 1, 2026. This is a full-time, 12-month position. She will be placed at step 6, classification B22 of the Educational Secretaries Association salary schedule. Kristine Rude - Decrease in assignment as Health & Wellness Paraeducator at INSITE from 7 hours per day/5 days per week to 6.5 hours per week/5 days per week beginning May 1, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-AFFILIATED) ## Emily Bartels - ACES Site Specialist at Lincoln Community Center, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be August 28, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (INSTRUCTIONAL) ## Barbara Enderle - Physical Education Teacher at Franklin Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Andie Albers - Adjust end date to May 15, 2026, as Teacher in Residence at Eagle Lake Elementary School. ## Micah Allen - Early Learning Special Education Paraeducator at MAPS Center for Learning, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 8, 2026. Cheryl Ellstrom - Cook Helper at Prairie Winds Middle School, has submitted a resignation for the purpose of retirement. The last day of employment will be May 21, 2026. ## Owen Finch - Special Education Paraeducator and Non-classroom Paraeducator at Bridges Community School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be July 24, 2026. ## Rachel Guentzel - Health & Wellness Paraeducator at Washington Elementary School, has submitted a resignation in order to accept the teaching position. The last day for this assignment will be May 18, 2026. ## Hailey Hoppe - Special Education Paraeducator at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Laird Keeton - ACES Child Care Assistant at Franklin Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 15, 2026. ## Eleanor McDonough - Special Education Paraeducator at Kennedy Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Jose Martinez - Evening Floating Custodian with the District, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 4, 2026. ## Madeline Saye - Student Success Coach at Kennedy Elementary, has submitted a resignation. The last day for this assignment will be May 14, 2026. She will continue as ACES Child Care Assistant at Kennedy Elementary School. Sherise Williams - Cook Helper at West High School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 5, 2026. Barry Zimmerman - Day Custodian at East High School, has submitted a resignation for the purpose of retirement. The last day of employment will be July 6, 2026. ## TERMINATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Stalyn Kirkman - Special Education Paraeducator, effective May 5, 2026. ## Recommended Action: The Administration recommends the approval of the personnel items.