School Board Approves Two Employment Contracts Worth $378,000
The Independent School District 279 School Board approved two employment contracts Tuesday totaling more than $378,000 in investments over two years.
The board unanimously approved a contract for Kids Stop instructors covering 19 employees from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2026. The agreement provides a 4% base increase in the first year and 1.5% increase in the second year, with additional increases for four-star instructors. The total investment is $173,374.
Board members also approved a contract for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses covering 30 employees for the same period. The agreement includes 4% increases for all steps in year one and 2% increases in year two, with benefit improvements. The total investment is $205,532.
The meeting included recognition of multiple student achievements, including state-level athletic accomplishments in gymnastics, wrestling, dance, and health science competitions. Students from AIO Senior High School, Maple Grove Senior High School, and Park Center Senior High School received honors for their performances.
Community members addressed the board regarding LGBTQIA+ curriculum implementation, with differing perspectives on the appropriateness and necessity of planned lessons. The board also heard concerns about technology changes affecting 279 Online Elementary students and updates on city development projects from Brooklyn Park staff.
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Areas of Interest (4)
- Tensions remain high over LGBTQIA+ curriculum implementation and parental opt-out policies.
- 279 Online stakeholders demand accountability for digital platform shifts without faculty input.
- Community concern grows over school board transparency regarding administrative decisions.
- Impact of the Blue Line light rail extension on local school district land use and housing.
Votes (1)
Accept the agenda as presented
Moved by Director Dawson · Seconded by Director Brooks
Notable Quotes (2)
If we removed every topic that made someone uncomfortable... we'd be erasing essential parts of our shared history.
The choice to ignore our voices and needs is creating barriers for our school, our staff, and most importantly, our scholars.
People (6)
Tanya PrinceBoard ChairPresiding over the school board meeting
Presiding over the school board meeting
Dr. Kim HySuperintendentPresenting district reports and school achievements
Presenting district reports and school achievements
Cindy Devonish HallCommunity Engagement Experience ManagerCity of Brooklyn Park representative discussing local initiatives
City of Brooklyn Park representative discussing local initiatives
Max MaherDistrict ResidentAdvocating for the implementation of the LGBTQIA+ resolution
1 quote
Advocating for the implementation of the LGBTQIA+ resolution
“The resolution clearly calls for curricula that respect LGBTQIA plus students... It's not overreach that's administration doing its job.”
Defending administrative authority to develop lessons
Michelle StraitParent/ResidentExpressing concerns regarding LGBTQIA+ curriculum content
1 quote
Expressing concerns regarding LGBTQIA+ curriculum content
“The entire lesson risks making students feel judged or silenced just for having a different perspective.”
Critique of the proposed lesson plan
Jennifer SchroederParent/TeacherCriticizing 279 Online's shift to Microsoft Teams
1 quote
Criticizing 279 Online's shift to Microsoft Teams
“Nothing about us without us is for us.”
Requesting stakeholder consultation for online programs
Places Mentioned
Events & Meetings (4)
- April 22, 2025, 6 PM - Regular School Board Meeting
- May 7, 2025, 5:00 PM-7:00 PM - Northwest Area Open House
- April 26, 2025 - Indian Education 28th Annual Pow-wow
- April 24-27, 2025 - Wastebasket Review Variety Show
Ordinances & Resolutions (1)
Mandates inclusive curricula and recognition of LGBTQIA+ history/culture month.
Source document
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Other Topics from This Document
Student athlete and team recognitions
Public comment on LGBTQIA+ lesson plans and resolution
Public comment on 279 Online operational concerns
Community engagement updates (Brooklyn Park/Blue Line)
Superintendent's Report and Points of Pride
School board committee reports
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