The Edina Public Schools Board approved the conditional purchase of two electric school buses and received comprehensive updates on student support services during their regular meeting Monday.

The board voted to move forward with acquiring electric buses contingent on receiving a Minnesota Department of Commerce grant. The $400,000 federal EPA grants already secured would be combined with the state grant to eliminate the capital costs of the $800,000 purchase. Director of Finance Mert Woodard said the arrangement with Highland Bus Company would actually cost less than purchasing diesel buses if the state grant is awarded. The grant decision is expected around January 20.

Student Support Services Director Jody Remsing presented data showing a 30% increase in special education students over six years, with the district now serving over 1,200 students with disabilities. The district maintains 15% of students in special education, aligning with the state average of 14%. Remsing highlighted the success of Project Search, a transition program at Southdale Hospital where interns are completing their fourth month of a nine-month workplace immersion program.

The board also approved the district's audited financial statements for fiscal year 2024. Auditor Bill Lower from MMKR reported clean opinions across all areas, with the district ending the year with $26.5 million in general fund balance, an increase of $6 million from the previous year. The audit identified minor compliance issues including timely payment of claims and unclaimed property reporting.

Highland Elementary students and staff presented their 20th annual Impact Day celebration, where 570 students packed 56,392 meals for local food shelves. Principal Dr. Cara Rickenberg said the milestone represents over one million meals packed by Highland students over two decades. The board also approved various curriculum recommendations and international travel opportunities for students.