## AGENDA ## Independent School District No. 77 ## Mankato, MN 56001 Monday, April 6, 2026 - 5:30 p.m. ## Intergovernmental Center - Minnesota Valley Room ## 1.CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL (5:30 P.M.) ## 2.APPROVAL OF AGENDA (5:30 P.M.) ## 3.MAPS STUDENT SPOTLIGHT (5:35 P.M.) ## 4.MAPS STAFF SPOTLIGHT (5:45 P.M.) ## 5.PUBLIC COMMENT (5:55 P.M.) ## 6.INFORMATION (6:10 P.M.) ## A.Winter Student/Staff Recognition ## B.Reading/Literacy Curriculum Study Presentation ## C.2017 Operating Referendum Renewal Process ## D.First Reading of Revised Policies ## E.Board Member Workshop/Committee/Student Reports ## 7.CONSENT AGENDA (7:15 P.M.) ## A.Approval of Minutes of March 16, 2026, Regular Meeting ## B.Personnel ## 8.BUSINESS (7:20 P.M.) ## A.Acceptance of Gifts and Grants ## B.Approval of 2026 Site Hard Surface Improvements ## C.Approval of Reading/Literacy Curriculum Purchase ## C.Approval of Reading/Literacy Curriculum Purchase ## D.Resolution Relating to the Termination/Non-Renewal of Teaching Contracts of Probationary ## Teachers ## E.Approval of 2026 Health Clinic Space Renovations ## F.Approval of 2026-2027 Employee Health Insurance Plan and Renewal Rates ## G.Approval of 2026-27 Dental Program Rates ## H.Approval of 2025-2026 Revised Budgets ## 9.ADJOURNMENT (8:00 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 ## PUBLIC COMMENT GUIDELINES The Mankato Area School Board welcomes public participation through Public Comment. Hearing from citizens is an important aspect of public service, and the School Board appreciates people sharing their views. It is important to note that School Board meetings are business meetings held in the public. They are not public meetings nor are they a public forum. They are a business meeting of the elected representatives of the school district. The Mankato Area School Board expects that the same etiquette and decorum displayed during the business meeting be present during the Public Comment. Public Comment participation is limited to those individuals who wish to speak to an item on the Board agenda. The School Board does not comment or ask questions during Public Comment. Each speaker is asked to provide his/her name and city for the record. Each speaker is allowed three (3) minutes to speak. The Board Chair will alert speakers when their time is up. Failure to stop speaking and blatantly ignore the cue, will result in an individual losing the ability to participate in Public Comment for the next two months. When there is a large number of speakers, the Board Chair may modify Public Comment, such as shortening the time allotted for each speaker, adding an overall time limit, or shifting a portion of Public Comment to the end of the meeting. Public Comment participants are prohibited from calling out or addressing any individual School Board or school district staff member. If this occurs, Public Comment will be closed and the individual will not be allowed to participate in future Public Comments. Crowd noise or any sort of grandstanding during Public Comment, including applause, talking, shouting, or any outbursts will result in the Public Comment being closed. Citizens wishing to speak are asked to fill out the form online by 3 pm the day of the meeting or complete a Visitor Registration Card (located at the door of the meeting room) and hand it to the Board Chair or Deputy Clerk prior to the start of the meeting. Visit our Web Site at www.isd77.org School Board Meeting Agendas and Minutes can be found at: https://www.isd77.org/experience/school-board/agendas-and-minutes ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 6. A. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Paul Peterson, Superintendent ## Subject: ## Winter Student/Staff Recognition ## Background: East High Activities Director Todd Waterbury and West High Activities Director Eric Dahlman will review the student/staff recognition items for the Winter season. ## Recommended Action: ## None ## Attachments ## Recognition List The following East High students are recognized for their accomplishments during the Winter season: ## Girls Hockey ## ● Section 2AAA Champions and State Participants ## ● Big 9 Conference Champions ## ● Silver Team Academic Award (3.73) ## ○ Merit Grundei ## ○ Reagan Steindl ## ○ Ella Quist ## ○ Keegan Beckendorf ## ○ Laina Peterson – MSHSCA All-State Selection ## ○ Hattie Dahms ## ○ Lexi Erickson ## ○ Brielle Newton – MSHSCA Academic All-State ## ○ Maddie Scheel ## ○ Kira Prange ## ○ Ava Tibodeau ## ○ Ella Fugazzi ## ○ Jenna Borgmeier ## ○ Jillian Borgmeier ## ○ Emerson Asher ## ○ Grace Campbell ## ○ Ella Hudspith - MSHSCA Academic All-State ## ○ August Beltz ## ○ Makenzie Juliar ## ○ Ilamay Draheim ## ○ Student Managers – Avery Hoffman and Taylor Schilling ## Boys Basketball ● Section 2AAA Champions ## ● State Tournament Class AAA Consolation Champion ## ○ Caden Jacobs ## ○ Amari Nobles ## ○ Blake Kamphoff ## ○ Lucas Gustafson – MSHSCA All-Star Game Selection ## ○ Abdullahi Mohamed ## ○ Mason Diede ## ○ Blake Grovom ## ○ Gavin Hering ## ○ Austin Beaty ## ○ Colton McCormick ## ○ Owen Dahl ## ○ Jack Hinrichs ## ○ Remaech Gillo ## ○ Griffin Schott ## ○ Briggs Meyer – MSHSL All-Tournament Team Selection ## ○ Eli Edberg ## ○ Braden Petzel ○ Student Managers – Liliana Steinbach, Tessa Hermel and Carson Daggett ## Adapted Floor Hockey ## ● Section Champions and State Runner-Up ## ○ Kellen Britz ## ○ Oliver Dowd ## ○ Silas Visker ## ○ Jak Okumo ## ○ Jack O’Hara ## ○ Travis Peterson ## ○ Marcus Sierra ## Wrestling ## ● MSHSCA Gold Team Academic Award Winner (3.82 GPA) ○ Max Morgan – 189lb State Qualifier (Runner-Up) ## ■ MSHSCA All-State Selection ## ○ Jackson Stensrud – 127lb State Qualifier ## ○ Bennett Blom – 172lb State Qualifier ## ○ Tyler Thilges – 215lb State Qualifier ## Gymnastics ● Section 2A Champions ## ● MSHSCA Gold Team Academic Award ## ○ Aubrey Britz ## ■ Individual State Participant – Vault (19 th ## Place), Balance Beam (28 th ## Place) & Floor (12 th ## Place) ■ All-State – Floor and Beam ■ All-State Honorable Mention - Vault, Bars and All Around ## ○ Kaitlyn Rigdon ## ■ Individual State Participant – Vault (14 th ## Place), Bars (6 th ## Place), Beam (11 th ## Place), Floor (8 th Place) and All-Around (5 th ## Place) ## ■ All-State Elite Recipient ## ■ All-State – Bars, Beam, Floor and All Around ## ■ All-State Honorable Mention - Vault ## ○ Nora Javens ## ■ Individual State Participant – Balance Beam (21 st ## Place) ## ■ All-State Honorable Mention – Vault and Bars ## ○ Teegan Mullikin ## ■ Individual State Participant – Vault (17th Place) ■ All-State – Vault ## ■ All-State Honorable Mention – Balance Beam and Floor ## ○ Molly Rorvig ■ All-State Honorable Mention – Bars, Balance Beam and Floor ## ○ Alayna Mickelson ## ■ All-State Honorable Mention – Bars ## ○ Cece Elvebak ## ■ All-State Honorable Mention – Floor ## ○ Kailynn Thul ## ■ All-State Honorable Mention – Bars ## Boys Swim & Dive ● 19 th ## Place at State Meet ## ● MSHSCA Gold Team Academic Award ○ 200 Medley Relay: Elam Asker, Seth Pollema, Elliot Bartell & Nolan Bleck (17 th ## Place) ## ○ 100 Butterfly: Elliot Bartell (State Champion) All-State ## ○ 500 Freestyle: Elam Asker (10th Place) ○ 200 Freestyle Relay: Elam Asker, Seth Pollema, Elliot Bartell & Nolan Bleck (21st Place) ## ○ 100 Backstroke: Elliot Bartell (State Runner-up) All State ## VEX Robotics ● Sky High (Team 9457S) - State Qualifiers ○ ParticiKamren Hines, Olive Purrier, Drew Purrier, Sara Reza, Samuel Matson ● Wolfram (Team 9457W) - State Qualifier ○ Dalton Anderson, Khya Culbertson, Parker Hermel, Alaina Kittleson, Cadyn Thul, Maya ## Wood ● Spongebot Spareparts (Team 9457Z) - State Qualifiers ○ Garett Chatleain, Isaac Megard, Noah Altomari, Preston Thomas, Peyton Frauendienst ● Why? (Team 9457Y) - State Qualifiers ○ Cashel Thill, Nicholas Willaert, Blake Thielsen, Jonah Krenz, Joshua Larsen, Taylor Reuter, ## Evan Verly ● Middle School – Rubber Ducky Warriors (Team 10001C) - State & World Qualifiers ○ Jeremy Larsen, Lukas Budge, Evan Escorza, Noah Gale, Micah Netterlund, Nolan Kent ● Middle School – Enter Dragon (Team 10001M) - State & World Qualifiers ○ Jackson Johnson, Keegan Burger, Jayden Berdahl, Owen Wacker, Aaron Skarhus, Chase ## Conroy ## DECA ## ● State Participants ## ○ Aidan Burns ## ○ Eli Edberg ## ○ Norah Finch ## ○ Blake Kamphoff ## ○ Abdullah Khan ## ○ Ryan Kim ## ○ Logan Kleist ## ○ Boston Meyer ## ○ Dawson Miller ## ○ Jada Sivertsen ## ○ Liam Slotemaker ## ○ Hayden Tischler ## ○ Maya Wood The following West High students are recognized for their accomplishments during the Winter season: ## Adapted Floor Hockey ● Section Champions and state participant ● 2nd Place at State ● State Meet Qualifiers: Nicholas Hernandez, Semaji Scurlock, Damaria Pickett, Taylor Tokheim, ## Alex Daberkow ## Girls Basketball ## ● MSHSCA Team Academic Gold Award ● Academic All-State - Maven Coey, Zoe Williams, Livi Downs ## ● All State Honorable Mention- Livi Downs ## Gymnastics ## ● Academic Gold Team Award- Team GPA 3.9 ## ● Section 2A Runner Up ● State participants: ## ○ Maria Hagen ■ All Around- 2nd place ■ Vault- 2nd place ■ Uneven Bars- 2nd place ■ Balance Beam- 3rd place ## ■ Floor Exercise- 1st place State Champion ## ○ Aoife Rooney ■ Balance Beam- 14th place ## ○ Stevi Enter ■ Floor Exercise- 21st place ## ● All State/All State Honorable Mention ● Maria Hagen- All State: Vault, Bars, Beam, Floor, and All Around ● Aoife Rooney- All State Honorable Mention: Vault and Beam ● Ava Olson- All State Honorable Mention: Floor Exercise and Bar ● Maddison Hoechst - All State Honorable Mention: Floor Exercise ## ● Stevi Enter - All State : Floor Exercise ## ○ All State Honorable Mention: Beam, Vault ## Boys Hockey ● Section 3A Academic Champions (Team GPA 3.65) ● Section 3A Champions and 6th place at State ## ○ Mason Schreiber ## ○ Carson Brelje ## ○ Blake Rewitzer ## ○ Rickey Enter ## ○ Keaton Dorzek ## ○ Brooks Baukol ## ○ Jaxson Zimmerman ## ○ Jackson Starke ## ○ Weston Grassmann ## ○ Grady Schmidt ## ○ Brayden Keech ## ○ Kipton Keech ## ○ Cambell Barrett ## ○ Brodie Cox ## ○ Dane Hatlestad ## ○ Jaden Reddy ## ○ Joey Matson ## ○ Isaac Ulman ## ○ Jakobe Tosch ## ○ Blake Brekee ## ○ Team Managers: Ethan Naylor, Jacob Kane, Hudson Clarksean ● Head Coach: Nate Olsen: Class A Coach of the Year ## Alpine Ski ## ● State Participants ○ Garrett Pooley- 10th place ○ Abby Hagen- 59th place ## Boys Swim and Dive ● 24th as a team at state meet ● State Participants: Isaac Sanderson, Corbin Diechman, Sam Simmons, Trey Sabatka, Kaid ## Maxwell, Wyatt Bartell, Ian Ray, Wyatt Bartell, Sam Kunkel ## ● State Meet ## ○ 1 Meter Diving: Corbin Deichman 12th ## ○ 100 Yard Butterfly: Wyatt Bartell 16th ## ○ 100 Yard Backstroke: Sam Kunkel 14th ## ○ 100 Yard Breaststroke: Sam Simmons 12th ○ 400 Yard Freestyle Relay: Isaac Sanderson, Trey Sabatka, Corbin Deichman, Ian Ray 13th ## Wrestling ## ● Team Academic All-State Silver Award (Team GPA 3.4) ## DECA ## ● State Participants ## ○ Alex Barten ## ○ Harper Simonson ## ○ Jaden Huynh ## ○ Annie Essay ## ○ Blake Brekke ## ○ Emmitt Rentas ## ○ Harrison Velasquez ## ○ Kipton Keech ## ○ Marina Honnette ## ○ Noah Wersal ## ○ Violet Bhardwaj ## ○ Aiden Lawton ## ○ Aunika Barten ## ○ Brodie Cox ## ○ Brynley Bellig ## ○ Courtney O'Connor ## ○ Jakobe Tosch ## ○ Keaton Dorzek ## ○ Maleah Giesen ## ○ Osborne Lorenz ## ○ Penny Gorman ## ○ Taylor Fitzloff ## ○ Taytum Fromm ## ○ Corbin Deichman ## ○ Gus Schweim ## ○ Issac Ulman ## ○ Luci Velasquez ## ○ Mason Schreiber ## ○ Olivia Downs ## ○ Ryan Hendrickson ## ○ Vanessa Rodewald ## ○ Salma Muse ## ○ Amina Nior ● State Finalists - Courtney O’Connor, Luci Velasques, Meleah Giesen, Penny Gorman, Amina Nor ● Advancing to ICDC: Amina Nor 3rd place Start Up Business Plan ● 2026-2027 State Officer for MN DECA: VP of Digital Engagement - Courtney O’Connor ## Math League ## ● State Tournament ○ Joselyn Andersen, Ella Haggerty, Zichun Lin, Ansh Mohapatra, Celia Pratt Leila Pratt, and ## Prith Ray, Adrian Smith, Nathan Veen-Morel ## Vex Robotics ## ● State Tournament Qualifying Teams ○ 8110A ReStart - Ethan Mann, Dylan Jacoby, Eli Luiken ## ○ 8110C Alpacas - Matthew Goblirsch, Adrian Smith ○ 8110R Geared Up - Tobin Gangi, Charlie Vonbank, Fletcher Myer, Caleb Miller ○ 8110S Subsero - Max Spriggs, Colten Lindsey, Prith Ray, Zichun Lin, Jack Morgan ○ 8110T Capytech - Walter Gaalswyk, Nathan Veen-Morel, Joselynn Andersen, ## ○ 8110W Whisper - Logan Peters, Jaxson Parker, ○ 8110Z R.I.P. Tide - Hudson Long, Mason Martirock, Dylan Tholen ## ● 10 Straight State Championship ● State Champions: 8110S Subzero & 8110W Whisper ## ● State Semifinalists: 8110A ReStart, 8110C Alpacas, 8110T Capytech ● 2nd Place Robot Skills (52nd in the World): 8110W Whisper ## ● Amaze Award: 8110S Subzero ## ● Build Award: 8110W Whisper ## ● Judges Award: 8110C Alpacas ## ● World’s Tournament Qualifying Teams ○ ReStart ○ Alpacas ○ Subzero ○ Capytech ○ Whisper ## Triple A Award ## ● Damian Dieken ## ● Lydia Banse ## Excel Award ## ● Brodie Cox ## ● Claire Roering ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 6. B. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Travis Olson, Director of Teaching & Learning ## Subject: ## Reading/Literacy Curriculum Study Presentation ## Background: ## Travis Olson, Director of Teaching and Learning, along with Elementary Principals, Melissa Bruesske and Ann Haggerty, will be  presenting the Reading/Literacy Curriculum Study Presentation. ## Recommended Action: ## None ## Attachments ## Reading/Literacy Curriculum Study Presentation Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. 2025 - 2026 ## Reading/Literacy ## Curriculum Study Report ## to School Board April 6, 2026 Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Strategic Directions: ## Focus of Our Improvement Efforts A.Improving our professional practices so that each learner achieves at high levels in an inclusive educational model that is relevant and flexible B.Enhancing our student support structures to meet academic, social, behavioral, and mental health needs C.Recruiting, developing, and retaining staff to ensure positive learning experiences for students D.Strengthening our parent/caregiver partnerships and connections E.Ensuring safe, efficient and effective operations Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. Why a New Curriculum? Evidence-Based Alignment: Ensure all materials align strictly with the Science of Reading and current literacy research. MN READ Act. & support new learning Equity & Access: Provide high-quality, rigorous texts accessible to all diverse learners in our district. Standard Compliance: Update resources to fully meet the rigorous demands of the 2020 Minnesota State ELA Standards. Cohesive Instruction: Create a unified instructional approach across all grade levels to support student growth. Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Detailed Project Schedule ## PhaseDatesKey Activities ## Prepare Sept - Dec 2025Initial review to select materials for deep evaluation. ## Study Dec. 2025-March 2026 Presentation from each Publisher & Evaluate each ## Selection March 2026Final recommendation of the new curriculum. ## Planning March- Sept 2026Detailed implementation planning. ## Professional ## Development Summer/Fall 2026 Initial Professional Development and follow up PD throughout school year ## Implementation Sept. 2026Implementation of new curriculum in ALL K-5 Classrooms Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Identified the Curriculum Candidates ## Option A: ## Wit & Wisdom ## Option B: ## CKLA-Amplify ## Option C: ## Benchmark ## Advanced ## Option D: ## Arts & Letters ## A Knowledge building curriculum aligned with the ## Science of Reading, that integrates literature, history, science, and the arts. Features two distinct strands: systematic skills(phonics) and knowledge domains for comprehension. Knowledge only A comprehensive, standards-aligned program featuring leveled texts . Knowledge building only. ## A Knowledge building curriculum aligned with the ## Science of Reading, that integrates literature, history, science, and the arts. Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Review Tools Used ## Material Review ## Tools ## MN State ## Standards ## MDE Approved ## Resources Utilizing curriculum evaluation tools to ensure alignment with the scientific evidence base for reading instruction Cross-referencing all potential materials against the specific benchmarks and competencies required by Minnesota. Leveraging the ## Minnesota Department of Education's vetted lists and rubrics for high-quality instructional materials. Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Team Review Format The team consisted of representatives from each grade level, special education and MLL as well as Mentor Coaches and administrators ●Teams used the agreed upon tools to rigorously review and score each vendor’s materials (including online and consumable teacher and student materials) ●Developed additional questions for vendors ●Reviewed alignment with MN ELA Standards ●Reviewed district priorities ●Reviewed MDE completed rubrics ●Reviewed curriculum reviews from industry-standard tools ●Whole group discussion ●Considered vendor answers to questions ●Feedback from other users when available Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Team Recommendation The group agreed after careful deliberation and review of rubrics and district priorities ## that Arts & Letters from Great Minds is the best choice for our new ## ELA Curriculum Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. What’s Next? ●Recommendation to the school board April 6 ●Soft launch with select committee members ●Purchase materials ●Professional Development for teachers, admin & coaches ●Materials delivery ●Literacy Framework/Pacing Guide updates ●Box up and remove Benchmark Literacy materials ●Full implementation of Arts & Letters Curriculum in K-5 Classrooms ●Ongoing coaching and support during the school year Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## ELA Curriculum Review Committee Thank you to our dedicated committee of staff who spent countless hours helping to review materials and reach a decision. ## K: Molly Lout, Michelle Krahling ## 1: Makenzie Evans, Gina Vanselow ## 2: Melissa Larkin, Linnea Wilson ## 3: Michelle Marco, Angie Eccles ## 4: Betty Alders, Hannah Berdan ## 5: Kirsten Ertman, Abby Steffensmeier ## MLL: Erin Krueger ## Special Ed: Annie Sawatsky Mentor Coaches: Brittany Ward, Kristin Krusemark, Katie Soine, Jen Kluntz, Mandi Carleton ## Principals: Michelle Kruize, Ann Haggerty ## Instructional Support: Bobbie Bastian Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 6. C. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Subject: ## 2017 Operating Referendum Renewal Process ## Background: The Board Finance Committee met in early March to discuss long-term budget planning and financial forecasting. As part of that discussion, the committee reviewed the option to renew the District’s current levy, which is set to expire on June 30, 2028. Legislative changes enacted during the 2023 session allow school boards to authorize a one-time renewal of an existing levy at the same amount and duration as originally approved, without returning to voters. This action represents the first step in a broader series of financial discussions the Board will engage in over the coming year. While the renewal would secure an additional 10 years of existing levy authority, ongoing revenue growth from the state continues to lag behind expenditure increases, necessitating further discussion around potential future levy requests and budget adjustments to maintain the District’s unassigned fund balance target of 8%. ## Recommended Action: ## None ## Attachments ## Presentation Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. 2025-2026 ## Referendum Renewal ## Background April 6, 2026 Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Strategic Directions: ## Focus of Our Improvement Efforts A.Improving our professional practices so that each learner achieves at high levels in an inclusive educational model that is relevant and flexible B.Enhancing our student support structures to meet academic, social, behavioral, and mental health needs C.Recruiting, developing, and retaining staff to ensure positive learning experiences for students D.Strengthening our parent/caregiver partnerships and connections E.Ensuring safe, efficient and effective operations Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## 2017 Operating Referendum Authority Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## State Law Changes to Operating Referendum Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. Current Operating Referendum (Pay 2026 / FY 2027) Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Current Total School Taxes Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Board Renewal of Referendums ●Legislative change in 2023 allows a school board to renew existing operating referendums ●One time at same length and amount as original request ●Includes inflationary increases if in existing authority ●School Board must allow for public testimony on the proposed renewal prior to taking action Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Board Renewal of Referendums ●ISD 77 referendum expires after taxes payable in 2027 (FY 2028) ●Board can renew referendum anytime between July 1, 2025 and June 15, 2027 ●New 10 years of renewed referendum begins FY 2029 through FY 2038 Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Statewide Operating Referendum ## FY 2027 ●329 public school districts ○73% with voter approved referendum ○27% without voter approved referendum ●State Median Referendum = $635 ●Metro Median Referendum = $1,893 ○Only 4 districts out of 57 in seven county metro do not have an operating referendum Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Operating Referendum & Capital Projects Levy ## Comparison FY 2027 Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Operating Referendum & Capital Projects Levy ## Comparison FY 2027 Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## Other Factors for Consideration ●Avoids election expenses ●Near unanimous support of referendum renewals across the state in the years leading up to law change ●Renewal authority has been widely used since it was granted by legislature Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## 5 Year Budget Forecasts ## 5 Year Forecast Without Market Share Gain ## 5 Year Forecast with No Levy in FY 2029 Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student, Every Day. ## THANK ## YOU! ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 6. D. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:John Lustig, Director of Administrative Services ## Subject: ## First Reading of Revised Policies ## Background: School Board Policy 305 states that it is the responsibility of the Superintendent to recommend additions or modifications to School Board policies. The Policy Review Committee met on March 24, 2026, to review and discuss the proposed revisions. The attached revised policies are presented this evening for first reading.  These policies will be presented for second reading and approval at the May 4, 2026 School Board meeting. ## Recommended Action: ## None ## Attachments ## List of Policies ## Policy Review Committee: March 24, 2026 ## School Board First Reading: April 6, 2026 ## School Board Second Reading/Approval: May 4, 2026 ## List of Policies for Board Action ## POLICY # POLICY TITLE REVIEWED & ## READY ## TO GO ## (X) ## WHO/NOTES ## 422 POLICIES INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE X REVISION ## 426 INSURANCE X RECOMMEND TO ## ELIMINATE ## 438 CONSULTING X RECOMMEND TO ## ELIMINATE 462 ## EXTENDED LEAVES FOR SCHOOL ## RELATED TRIPS ## X REVISION ## 535 COMMENCEMENT X REVISION 606 ## TEXTBOOKS AND INSTRUCTIONAL ## MATERIALS ## X REVISION ## 610 FIELD TRIPS X REVISION ## 630 RECONSIDERATION OF TEXTBOOKS OR ## OTHER INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS ## X RECOMMEND TO ## MOVE INTO POLICY 606 ## 719 PAYROLL PERIODS X RECOMMEND TO ## ELIMINATE ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 6. E. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Paul Peterson, Superintendent ## Subject: ## Board Member Workshop/Committee/Student Reports ## Background: Board members will have an opportunity to provide brief reports on recent workshops they have attended or on committees they are serving on. Student representatives will have an opportunity to provide brief updates on their schools. ## Recommended Action: ## None ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 7. A. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Paul Peterson, Superintendent ## Subject: ## Approval of Minutes of March 16, 2026, Regular Meeting ## Background: See attachment. ## Recommended Action: Recommend approval of the minutes and proceedings as attached. ## Attachments Minutes - March 16, 2026 ## SCHOOL BOARD MINUTES ## INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 77 ## Mankato, Minnesota March 16, 2026 The School Board of Independent School District No. 77 met in regular session on Monday, March 16, in the Minnesota River Room at the Intergovernmental Center. Chair Sinning called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. Members present at roll call: Patrick Baker, Christopher Kind, Elizabeth Hanke, Kari Pratt, Liz Ratcliff, and Shannon Sinning. Members absent: Erin Roberts. Mrs. Pratt made a motion, and Mrs. Ratcliff seconded, approval of the agenda together with a Personnel Addendum. The motion carried on a 6-0 voice vote. The consent agenda items outlined below were approved on a motion by Mrs. Ratcliff, seconded by Mr. Kind, and carried on a 6-0 roll call vote. Approval of Minutes of the March 2, 2026, regular Board meeting. Approval of March bills totaling $8,906,586.07. Personnel : ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Sage Berry - ACES Child Care Assistant at Roosevelt Elementary School for 1.5 hours per day/2 days per week beginning March 9, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Abigail Carlson - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 9, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Nickole Duvernay - Special Education Paraeducator at Prairie Winds Middle School for 3.75 hours per day/3 days per week (M/W/F) and 6.75 hours per day/1 day per week (T) beginning March 16, 2026. She will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. Madeline Kempenich - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 2, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour. This is in addition to her ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute assignment. Ty Kleinschmidt - Student Success Coach at Hoover Elementary School for 2 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 9, and ending May 21, 2026. He will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. ## Minutes of March 16, 2026, School Board Meeting Noura Kurdi - Special Education Paraeducator at Kennedy Elementary School for 2.5 hours per day/4 days per week (M-TH) and 5.75 hours per day/1 day per week (F) beginning March 9, 2026. She will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. This is in addition to her ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute assignment. Elizabeth Lewis - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 2, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour. This is in addition to her Reading Intervention Teacher assignment at Franklin Elementary School, ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, and Substitute Teacher assignments. Klara Lybeck - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 2, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour. This is in addition to her ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute assignment. Samantha Prybylla - Early Learning Special Education Paraeducator at MAPS Center for Learning for 6.5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 3, 2026. She will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. Amber Reuter - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 2, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour. This is in addition to her ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute assignment. Julia Roering - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 2, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour. This is in addition to her ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute assignment. Julie Schwamberger - Second Cook at Eagle Lake Elementary School for 7 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 9, 2026. She will be placed at classification A13, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Joyce Petersen - Temporary increase in assignment as Title 1 Intervention Teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School from 0.80 FTE to 1.00 FTE beginning March 9, and ending May 20, 2026. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Shazia Alam - Increase in assignment as Cook Helper at East High School from 6.5 hours per day/5 days a week to 8 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 16, 2026. Elizabeth Castanon - Voluntary decrease in assignment as Cook Helper at East High School from 8 hours per day/5 days per week to 6.5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 16, 2026. Debora Donahue - Increase hourly rate to $18.41 as ABE Teaching Assistant with the Adult Basic Education Program at Lincoln Community Center beginning July 1, 2025. ## Minutes of March 16, 2026, School Board Meeting Aabry Kennedy Casanova - Change in assignment from ABE Student Worker to Community Education Site Operations and Safety Associate at Lincoln Community Center and MAPS Center for Learning on an as needed basis beginning March 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Amanda M Kozitza - Increase in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Rosa Parks Elementary School from 3.25 hours per day/5 days per week to 4.83 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. Clarissa McKeown - Change in assignment from ACES Child Care Assistant at Bridges Community School to ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 16, 2026. Maryam Mohamud - Voluntary Decrease in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Kennedy Elementary School from 6.25 hours per day/5 days per week to 6.25 hours per day/4 days per week (M/W/TH/F) beginning March 10, 2026. Hiroko Wollam - Increase hourly rate to $18.41 as ABE Teaching Assistant with the Adult Basic Education Program at Lincoln Community Center beginning July 1, 2025. ## RESIGNATIONS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Mahamed Hassan - Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Interventionist at Dakota Meadows Middle School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be March 10, 2026. Abbey Riese - School Psychologist at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Pamela Allen - Infant Care Provider with the TAPP Daycare at Central High School and ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 22, 2026. Mackenzie Bosch - 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 18, 2026. Skylar Frolke - Health & Wellness Paraeducator at SUN, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Isaac Wadd - ACES Site Lead Substitute at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be March 13, 2026. ## Addendum ## APPOINTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Jake Aukes - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026, for the 2026-27 school year. He will be placed at step 5 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Minutes of March 16, 2026, School Board Meeting Claire Hinrichs - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026, for the 2026-27 school year. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. Savannah Smith - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026, for the 2026-27 school year. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Samuel Kelley - 6-hour, 9-month Evening Custodian at Jefferson Elementary School beginning March 16, 2026. He will be placed at classification A13, step 2, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. Isabella Parker - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 16, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Benjamin Winans - Student Success Coach at Eagle Lake Elementary School for 2 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 2, 2026. He will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. This is in addition to his Non-classroom Paraeducator assignment at Eagle Lake Elementary School. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Maria Paulsen - Adjust end date to May 26, 2026 as Contract Substitute Teacher at Hoover Elementary School. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Melissa Fowler - 8-hour Floating Evening Custodian with the District, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be March 10, 2026. Gretchen Keefe - Head Girls Basketball Coach at West High School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be March 9, 2026. Noah Wolters - 8-hour Evening Custodian at Dakota Meadows Middle School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be March 11, 2026. There being no further business to consider, Mrs. Pratt moved and Mrs. Hanke seconded, that the meeting be adjourned. The meeting was declared adjourned at 5:48 p.m., on a 6-0 voice vote. ## Clerk ## Attest: ## Chairperson ## Minutes of March 16, 2026, School Board Meeting ## SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS ## INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 77 ## Mankato, Minnesota March 16, 2026 The School Board of Independent School District No. 77 met in regular session on Monday, March 16, in the Minnesota River Room at the Intergovernmental Center. Chair Sinning called the meeting to order at 5:45 p.m. Members present at roll call: Patrick Baker, Christopher Kind, Elizabeth Hanke, Kari Pratt, Liz Ratcliff, and Shannon Sinning. Members absent: Erin Roberts. 1. Pratt/Ratcliff approval of agenda with personnel addendum. 6-0 2. Ratcliff/Kind approval of Consent Agenda Items: Approval of Minutes of the March 2, 2026, regular meeting; Approval of March Bills; Personnel. 6-0 3. Pratt/Hanke adjournment at 5:48 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 March 16, 2026, School Board Meeting ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 7. B. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:John Lustig, Director of Administrative Services ## Subject: ## Personnel ## Background: ## APPOINTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) ## Andie Albers - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. ## Mymique Baxter - Part-time (0.50 FTE) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Interventionist at Dakota Meadows Middle School beginning March 11 and ending May 26, 2026. She will be placed at step 7 of the PhD lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. This is in addition to her PEEK Teacher assignment at Dakota Meadows Middle School. ## Cadence Flolo - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Special Education Teacher, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule, contingent upon obtaining licensure. ## Mya Harrington - Long-term Substitute Teacher at Roosevelt Elementary School beginning April 7, and ending May 4, 2026. She will be placed at step 1 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Emily Price - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Speech Language Pathologist, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 2 of the M+45 lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Clare Sallstrom - Part-time (0.80 FTE) Special Education Teacher, site to be determined, beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 10 of the M lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. Jennifer Tourville - Full-time (1.00 FTE) Occupational Therapist with the District beginning August 24, 2026. She will be placed at step 10 of the M+45 lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. ## Amber Volkman - Temporary assignment as part-time Title I Reading Interventions Teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School for 3.25 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 23, and ending May 8, 2026. She will be placed at step 10 of the B lane on the Teachers Association salary schedule. This is in addition to her Substitute Teacher assignment. ## APPOINTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) ## Mataya Bolander - ACES Child Care Assistant at Bridges Community School for 3-4 hours per day/1 day per week beginning April 1, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.25 per hour. ## Beverly Engelby - Early Learning Special Education Paraeducator at MAPS Center for Learning for 6.5 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 26, 2026. She will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. Easton Farley - ACES Child Care Assistant at Jefferson Elementary School for 3-4 hours per day/2 days per week beginning March 19, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $15.25 per hour for this assignment. This is in addition to his Food Service Substitute assignment. Sarah Jordan - Student Associate Worker at Central High School on an as needed basis beginning September 8 and ending November 17, 2025. She will be compensated at the rate of $11.41 per hour. ## Alethea Juliar - 8-hour, 12-month Evening Custodian at Hoover Elementary School beginning April 20, 2026. She will be placed at classification A13, step 2, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. ## Aabry Kennedy Casanova - Correction - Community Education Site Operations and Safety Associate at Lincoln Community Center and MAPS Center for Learning for up to 20 hours per week beginning March 4, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. This is in addition to her ABE Student Worker assignment at Lincoln Community Center. ## Courtney Kovacs - ACES Child Care Assistant at Eagle Lake Elementary School for 3-4 hours per day/2 days per week beginning March 31, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.00 per hour. Noura Kurdi - ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning April 1, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $17.50 per hour for this assignment. This is in addition to her ## Special Education Paraeducator at Kennedy Elementary School and ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute assignments. Dinh-Bao Lam - ABE Teaching Assistant at Lincoln Community Center for 2.25 hours per day/2 days per week (T/W) beginning June 9 and ending July 29, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $17.00 per hour. This is in addition to his ABE Teaching Assistant Substitute assignment. Jose Martinez - 8-hour, 12-month Evening Floating Custodian with the District beginning March 31, 2026. He will be placed at classification A13, step 2, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. ## Sophia Matarrese - ACES Student Support Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning April 1, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of 16.00 per hour. This is in addition to her ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute assignment. ## Delaney Murphy - Early Learning Classroom Aide at MAPS Center for Learning for 5 hours per day/4 days per week (M-TH) beginning March 19, 2026. She will be placed at classification B21, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. ## Garmunee Phillips - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 23, 2026. He will be compensated at the rate of $16.25 per hour. ## Emmalie Shaffer - ACES Child Care Assistant at Franklin Elementary School for 3-4 hours per day/3 days per week beginning March 23, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $15.25 per hour. Kelsey Surrett - Early Learning Classroom Aide at MAPS Center for Learning for 4 hours per day/3 days per week (T-TH) beginning March 31, 2026. She will be placed at classification B21, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. This is in addition to her ACES Child Care Assistant assignment at Rosa Parks Elementary School. Abigail Thole - ACES Site Lead Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 16, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $18.75 per hour. This is in addition to her Special Education Paraeducator and ACES Child Care Assistant assignments at Rosa Parks Elementary School. ## Benjamin Winans - Special Education Paraeducator at Eagle Lake Elementary School for 3 hours per day/5 days per week beginning March 30, 2026. He will be placed at classification B22, step 1, in accordance with the agreement between the District and the Minnesota School Employee Association. This is in addition to his Non-classroom Paraeducator and Student Success Coach assignments at Eagle Lake Elementary School. Margaret Wood - Building Supervisor at MAPS Center for Learning on an as-needed basis beginning March 18, 2026. She will be compensated at the rate of $19.00 per hour. This is in addition to her Early Learning Classroom Aide assignment at MAPS Center for Learning. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-AFFILIATED) ## Ann Arndt - Change in classification as HR Generalist from B22 on the Educational Secretaries Association to Non-affiliated with an annual salary of $54,000 (prorated to $13,448.27 for 65 days for 2025-26) beginning April 1, 2026. She will be eligible for Category II benefits. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (INSTRUCTIONAL) ## Theresa Calsbeek - Temporary increase in assignment as Title I Intervention Teacher at Jefferson Elementary School from 0.70 FTE to 0.90 FTE beginning March 24, and ending May 26, 2026. ## Carrie Nolan - Adjust salary step placement as Special Education Teacher at Prairie Winds Middle School from B step 1 to B step 3 beginning January 29, 2026. ## CONTRACT ADJUSTMENTS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Chandler Hassing - Increase hourly rate to $15.25 as ACES Child Care Assistant beginning March 2, 2026. ## Maryam Mohamud - Voluntary decrease in assignment as Special Education Paraeducator at Kennedy Elementary School from 6.25 hours per day/4 days per week (M/W/TH/F) to 6.25 hours per day/3 days per week (M/TH/F) and 5.25 hours per day/1 day per week (T) beginning March 25, 2026. Ronnez Morris - Increase hourly rate to $15.25 as ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute beginning April 1, 2026. Jane Phares - Increase hourly rate to $15.25 as ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute beginning April 1, 2026. ## Madeline Saye - Increase hourly rate to $16.25 as ACES Child Care Assistant at Kennedy Elementary School beginning April 1, 2026. This is in addition to her Student Success Coach assignment at Kennedy Elementary School. ## Vivien Schmoll - Increase hourly rate to $15.25 as ACES Child Care Assistant at Monroe Elementary School beginning April 1, 2026. Brandon Soderquist - Change in assignment from 5-hour, 12-month, Night Custodian at East High ## School to 8-hour, 12-month Evening Custodial at Dakota Meadows Middle School beginning March 23, 2026. He will be compensated according to his placement on the Minnesota School Employees Association salary schedule. ## Claire Westendorf - Change in assignment From ACES Student Support Assistant at Rosa Parks Elementary School to ACES Student Support Substitute on an on-call basis beginning March 16, 2026. This is in addition to her ACES Site Lead Substitute assignment at Rosa Parks Elementary School. ## McKenzie Wilkins - Increase hourly rate to $15.25 as ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute beginning April 1, 2026. ## REQUESTS FOR LEAVE (INSTRUCTIONAL) Brittany Boyum - Teacher currently on Board-approved leave has requested unpaid leave for the 2026-27 school year. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-AFFILIATED) Scott Hogen - Facilities Bond Project Manager with the District, has submitted a resignation for the purpose of retirement. The last day of employment will be June 30, 2026. ## Abigail Lang - Operations & Program Support Assistant Specialist with Community Education, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be April 3, 2026. ## Logan Schlader - Building Technology Assistant at Prairie Winds Middle School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 21, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (INSTRUCTIONAL) Emily Dauk - Mathematics Teacher at East High School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. Jessica Dowd - Teacher currently on leave, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. ## Kim Hermer - Work-Based Learning Teacher at East High School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. Karen Mehlhaff - 5th Grade Teacher at Monroe Elementary School, has submitted a resignation for the purpose of retirement. The last day of employment will be May 27, 2026. Sarah Myer - Art Teacher at Futures and Prairie Winds Middle School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. Katherine Rieck - Kindergarten Teacher at Franklin Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. David Ruiz - Teacher currently on leave, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. ## Emily Seppmann - Special Education Teacher at Rosa Parks Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. ## Alexia Thomas - Special Education Teacher at Kennedy Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. Katelyn Wilson - Teacher currently on leave, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 26, 2026. ## RESIGNATIONS (NON-INSTRUCTIONAL) Elsie Bennett - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. ## Mallory Bruhn - ACES Child Care Assistant at Eagle Lake Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. ## Ryan Eichhorst - ACES Child Care Assistant at Kennedy Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Jadelyn Jackson - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. Mercy Nyamari - ACES Child Care Assistant at Franklin Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be March 18, 2026. Jill Petersen - Healthcare Paraeducator (RN) at MAPS Center for Learning, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. She will continue as a Healthcare Substitute. Max Phares - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day of employment will be May 18, 2026. ## Julie Schwamberger - Second Cook at Eagle Lake Elementary School, has submitted a resignation. The last day for this assignment will be March 27, 2026. She will continue as a Food Service Substitute. Kiera Swenson - ACES Child Care Assistant Substitute, has submitted a resignation. The last day for this assignment will be March 22, 2026. She will continue as English Language Arts Teacher at East High School. ## NON-RENEWAL (INSTRUCTIONAL) The Board is asked to formalize the non-renewal of employment for educators currently holding Tier 1 licenses and those serving in Contract Substitute positions. Under the terms of their employment, shall be non-renewed at the close of the 2025-26 school year effective May 26, 2026. ## Joni Biebighauser, Jazanne Brass, Nicholas Campbell, Jacob Dolter, Allyson Gotz, Charles Johnston, Maria Paulsen, Mithchel Pomije, Charles Reilly, Ruth Stark, Maria Stock, Jennifer Wade, Amanda Wolff, ## Brittany Wundermachen ## Recommended Action: The Administration recommends the approval of the personnel items. ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. A. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Paul Peterson, Superintendent ## Subject: ## Acceptance of Gifts and Grants ## Background: ## Tokyo Sushi & Hibachi donated $1,000 for Bridges Community School ## Post Consumer Brands, LLC donated $10,000 for Washington Elementary School ## Amy Netterlund donated $2,000 for Prairie Winds VEX Robotics Program Mankato Ballet Company donated $920 for District wide 2nd Grade Field Trip to the Ballet for ## Transportation ## Todd & Amy Loosbrock donated $1,500 for Bennett Loosbrock Memorial Scholarship Fund ## Kyle Baynes donated $16,182.28 for Jefferson Elementary Wolf Ridge Field Trip ## Recommended Action: The administration recommends Board acceptance of these generous gifts and grants. ## Attachments ## Resolution The following resolution was moved by __________ and seconded by _____________. ## 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: ● Tokyo Sushi & Hibachi donated $1,000 for Bridges Community School ● Post Consumer Brands, LLC donated $10,000 for Washington Elementary School ● Amy Netterlund donated $2,000 for Prairie Winds VEX Robotics Program ● Mankato Ballet Company donated $920 for Districtwide 2nd Grade Field Trip to the Ballet for ## Transportation ● Todd & Amy Loosbrock donated $1,500 for Bennett Loosbrock Memorial Scholarship Fund ● Kyle Baynes donated $16,182.28 for Jefferson Elementary Wolf Ridge Field Trip The vote on adoption of the Resolution was as follows: ## Aye: ## Nay: ## Absent: Whereupon, said Resolution was declared duly adopted. By: ________________________ By: _________________________ ## Chair Clerk ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. B. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Subject: ## Approval of 2026 Site Hard Surface Improvements ## Background: On March 24th at 2:00pm, two (2) bids were received for the Mankato Area Public Schools 2026 Site Hard Surface Improvements Projects. ## Recommended Action: The low bidder is W.W. Blacktopping, Inc., from Mankato, Minnesota. The low bid is approximately 5% below the Engineers Estimate. Based on past performance on similar projects in previous years, it is our opinion that W.W. Blacktopping, Inc., is qualified to perform the work required under this contract. We hereby recommend that W.W. Blacktopping, Inc. be awarded the project for a contract amount of $326,905.65. This will be funded through ‘27 LTFM Funds. ## Attachments ## Letter of Recommendation ## Bid Summary ## 1960 Premier Drive ## Mankato, MN 56001 Phone: (507) 625-4171 ## Bolton-Menk.com March 25, 2026 ## Mr. Scott Kaminski ## Facilities Operations Manager ## Independent School District No. 77 ## 10 Civic Center Plaza, Suite 1, P.O. Box 8741 ## Mankato, MN 56002-8741 ## RE: 2026 Site (Hard Surface) Improvements ## Independent School District No. 77 ## Mankato and North Mankato, Minnesota ## BMI Project No. 25X.141766 ## Dear Mr. Kaminski, Bids were received and opened on Tuesday, March 24 at 11:00 am for the 2026 Site (Hard Surface) Improvement project. The project includes the following improvements: • Bidding Section A: Dakota Meadows Parking Lot Mill & Overlay • Bidding Section B: Jefferson Elementary Reclaim and Reconstruct (North Parking Lot) • Bidding Section C: Mankato East High School Seal Coating & Crack Filling • Bidding Section D: Roosevelt Elementary Seal Coat & Fog Seal Two (2) bids were received, and the results of the bids are tabulated below: ## Bidder Amount Bid ## W.W. Blacktopping, Inc. $326,905.65 ## Nielsen Blacktopping, Inc. $342,811.00 ## Engineer’s Estimate $343,596.50 The low bidder is W.W. Blacktopping, Inc., from Mankato, Minnesota. The low bid is approximately 5% below the Engineers Estimate. Based on past performance on similar projects in previous years, it is our opinion that W.W. Blacktopping, Inc., is qualified to perform the work required under this contract. We hereby recommend that W.W. Blacktopping, Inc. be awarded the project for a contract amount of $326,905.65. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if you need any additional information. ## Sincerely, Bolton & Menk, Inc. Daniel R. Sarff, P.E. ## Project Engineer ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. C. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Travis Olson, Director of Teaching & Learning ## Subject: ## Approval of Reading/Literacy Curriculum Purchase ## Background: During the informational portion of tonight's meeting, the details of the selection process were presented supporting the approval request. ## Recommended Action: The administration recommends the approval of the purchase of Arts and Letters as the Reading/Literacy Curriculum. ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. D. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:John Lustig, Director of Administrative Services ## Subject: ## Resolution Relating to the Termination/Non-Renewal of Teaching Contracts of Probationary Teachers ## Background: Part of the normal staffing process is the adoption of a resolution relating to the termination/non-renewal of the teaching contract of probationary teachers.  The necessary resolution, identifying the teachers affected by the Board’s action is enclosed. ## Recommended Action: The administration recommends that the Board adopt the resolution as presented. ## Attachments ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. E. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Subject: ## Approval of 2026 Health Clinic Space Renovations ## Background: On March 24th at 2:00pm, five (5) General Contractor bids were received for the Mankato Area Public Schools 2026 Health Clinic Space Renovations. ## Recommended Action: Of the bids received, Knutson Construction proposed the lowest base bid of $275,000. ISG completed a bid verification process with Mr. Collin Bennett on March 24th. Based on that verification process, we believe Knutson Construction fully understands the project scope and schedule as provided in the bid plans and specifications and that their bid is a responsible bid. ## Attachments ## Bid Summary ## Letter of Recommendation ## M AR C H 27 , 2 02 6 ## Scott Kaminski ## Director of Facilities and Safety ## Mankato Area Public Schools 10 E hickory St ## Mankato, MN 56001 ## SKamin1@isd77.org 115 East Hickory Street + Suite 300 + Mankato, MN 56001 507.387.6651 + ISGInc.com ## Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning ## R E : M A P S C 4 L & L C C R E N O V A T I O N ## Scott, This letter is in reference to the Center for Learning & Lincoln Community Center Projects and the bidding process. Plans were issued for bid on February 9, 2026, with a pre-bid meeting on both sites on March 11, 2026. ## On Tuesday, March 24 th , at 2:00PM we opened bids and publicly read them aloud at the ISG Mankato office. We received five prime bids in all, see attached bid tabulation sheet for reference. Of the two bids received, Knutson Construction proposed the lowest base bid of $275,000. ISG completed a bid verification process with Mr. Collin Bennett on March 24 th . Based on that verification process, we believe Knutson Construction fully understands the project scope and schedule as provided in the bid plans and specifications and that their bid is a responsible bid. Therefore, we recommend that the district award the Contract to Knutson Construction for the base bid amount. ## Sincerely, ## Kalob Hays, ## Kalob Hays ## Project Manager ## Kalob.hays@isginc.com ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. F. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Subject: ## Approval of 2026-2027 Employee Health Insurance Plan and Renewal Rates ## Background: ## On February 12, 2026, the District received seven bids for Employee Group Health Insurance. In compliance with the Health Insurance Transparency Act (HITA), the bids were opened in the presence of a representative from the MTA (Mankato Teachers Association), the District’s largest bargaining group. On March 18, 2026, the District Employee Insurance Committee convened to review the bids and discuss the merits of each proposal. Following this review, the Insurance Committee and administration recommend continuing with Blue Cross Blue Shield as the District’s third-party administrator and medical plan provider. In addition, the recommendation includes carving out the pharmacy benefit manager to Crumdale, which will utilize Express Scripts for pharmacy services. This recommendation results in a 9% premium increase across all health insurance plans, which is consistent with the current medical trend of approximately 9%–12%. The pharmacy carve-out was evaluated for potential cost savings and is estimated to reduce prescription drug costs by approximately 29.5%, or $2.1 million in our self-insured plan. ## Key Considerations: Health Premium Increase (2026-2027): Despite the positive claims trend, we are recommending a 9% increase in health insurance premiums for the 2026-2027 plan year. It is important to note that this increase is lower than the regional trend, reflecting our ongoing efforts to manage healthcare costs effectively. ## CDHP 3300 Deductible Adjustment: Due to an IRS mandate governing High Deductible Health Plans, a minor adjustment to the deductible for the CDHP 3300 plan is necessary. The deductible will increase to $3,400 for both self-only and family coverage to maintain our current family coverage structure and comply with federal regulations. ## PLAN                    SINGLE                 FAMILY Basic +                $1,759.00              $4,738.00 ## $750 CMM          $1,414.00              $3,731.00 ## $3400 CDHP       $1,196.00              $3,161.00 ## $6350 CDHP       $   952.00              $2,515.00 ## Recommended Action: Administration recommends the Board approve the following for the 2026-2027 plan year: The 9% increase in health insurance premiums.1. Carve out of the pharmacy benefit plan to Crumdale and Express Scripts2. The adjustment of the CDHP 3300 deductible to $3,400 for self-only and family coverage per federal regulations. 3. ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. G. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Subject: ## Approval of 2026-27 Dental Program Rates ## Background: Mankato Area Public Schools recently received renewal information for the self-insured dental program administered by Delta Dental of Minnesota. Attached is a summary report detailing the current financial status of the self-insured dental program.  Below are the recommended monthly renewal rates as ## determined by Delta Dental and the District’s Employee Insurance Committee .  This represents no change for the 2026-27 year. ## Single $41.71 Family     $103.38 A voluntary dental program has been implemented to provide optional dental insurance benefits for employee groups that previously did not have access to group dental insurance plans.  There is no employer contribution to the plan.  The Voluntary Plan is a fully insured plan.  This represents a 9.83% increase with rates guaranteed through 6/30/28. ## Single $38.64 Single + 1 $79.30 ## Family $127.46 ## Recommended Action: The District’s Employee Insurance Committee and the administration recommend continuation of the described dental plans at the proposed rates. ## Attachments ## Self-Insured Dental ## DISTRICT 77 SELF-INSURED DENTAL ACCOUNT Financial Report as of March 31, 2026 July 1, 2025 Beginning Cash Balance $289,732.29 Revenues from July 2025 thru March 2026: ## Premium Deposits from District 77 Employees $478,284.42 Interest Earnings $ 8.35 ## Total Revenues to Date $478,292.77 Expenditures from July 2025 thru March 2026: ## Delta Dental Administrative Costs $ 32,658.34 Claims Paid $456,301.87 ## Total Expenditures to Date $488,960.21 Cash Balance as of March 31, 2026 $272,793.55 ## Recommended Dental Account Reserve: ## Reserve for Claims Incurred but Not Reported $13,530 Stop loss revenue of 25% of Expected Claims $163,308 ## Total Recommended Reserve $176,838 ## School Board Regular Meeting ## 8. H. ## Meeting Date:04/06/2026 ## Prepared By:Amanda Heilman, Director of Business Services ## Subject: ## Approval of 2025-2026 Revised Budgets ## Background: Approval of the revised 2025-2026 budgets will change the individual fund totals as follows, as compared to the FY 26 Preliminary Budget which was board approved in June 2025: General Fund Revenues from $127,316,503 to $129,999,663.1. General Fund Expenditures from $128,358,681 to $130,505,097.2. Food Service Revenues from $6,718,310 to $6,131,500.3. Food Service Expenditures from $7,372,755 to $7,171,591.4. Community Service Fund Revenues from $7,849,816 to $7,834,104.5. Community Service Fund Expenditures from $7,460,948 to $8,265,412.6. Construction Fund Revenues from $1,200,000 to $2,015,000.7. Construction Fund Expenditures from $29,199,101 to $29,199,720.8. Debt Service Revenue from $16,559,992 to $16,463,792.  9. ## Recommended Action: Enclosed, as a separate document, is the recommended revised 2025-2026 budget for Mankato Area Public Schools programs.  This revised budget is an annual process and is recommended by the administration as a result of revised revenue projections, and a number of budget modifications which have occurred since the original budget was adopted in June of 2025. The primary drivers behind many of the changes in this Budget compared to the Preliminary Budget include: updated enrollment, special education state aid, compensatory aid, and employment agreement updates. District administration recommends approval.