Okay. Good evening everyone. Welcome to the Roseville area school board meeting for Tuesday, December 9th. A clerk will please call the role. >> Good evening. Director Shaw >> here. >> Director Gaggins >> here. Chair Anderson >> here. >> Treasurer Clark >> here. >> Director Bogasheski >> here. >> And Cluck Chu is here. >> Any agenda adjustments for this evening? >> There are no agenda adjustments. >> Right. Thank you. Under announcements, comments, and recognitions. Uh this evening's land acknowledgement will be uh read by Treasurer Clark. Roseville area school acknowledges that we reside on traditional ancestrial, contemporary, and unseated territory of the Dakota people. From bot from Dote, a confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, a place the Dakota people poetically claim as the center of the earth, directly beneath the center of heaven to Indian Mounds Park, a sacred place of burial built by ancestors of living people and home to the only known remaining burial mounds within the Minneapolis St. Paul Urban Corps. Indigenous people have cared for this land through warfare, genocide, relocation, and removal perpetrated by colonizers, the state of Minnesota, and the federal government. Injustices that reduced over 150 million indigenous people to around 300,000 indigenous people have given their blood, tears, heart, and resilience and love to this land. Enduring boarding schools that were in operation from 1879 through the 1930s where assimilation through humiliation was the curriculum and unspeakable unspeakable atrocities occurred daily to the foster care system where more kids were removed from indigenous homes than any other group in Minnesota. Indigenous people have not lost their culture or identity and still reside on this land. Roseville Area Schools is committed to ensuring the culture of our indigenous relatives, the original and rightful caretakers of this land, is studied, preserved, and celebrated. We are committed to understanding and honoring the sovereignty that has been denied to nearly six thou 600 indigenous nations, including 11 federally recognized tribes in Minnesota through the breaking of over 400 treaties. and we are committed to the truth of history of our indigenous relatives, the success of our indigenous students, and to the healing we hope to create through this commitment. >> Thank you. >> All right, we are going to move to a special recognition of retiring board members. >> Yes, I am so excited. And first, I'll uh offer that Jake and Sherry, if you could join me at the board table. And I just want the public to uh know that we really just have tabled due to the weather. We're excited to recognize and honor Mabel Kenny, our famous, now famous Schmidian Suns bus driver who potentially saved the life of a student in our community. So we'll be honoring her in January. And we'll also look forward to recognizing our fall state sport athletes as well in January. So those were tabled due to the weather. But tonight, the stars of the show are to my left and I am so privileged. Well, what will be happening is that uh Sherry and Jake have a presentation and we'll say some kind words. Um we'll be honoring and recognizing our outgoing board members and then I'll reserve my comments for the superintendent report tonight. And before you share, I'd like to show we're offering up a surprise. So for our executive board members, we have Kitty Gogggins and Frank Shaw. And you'll after they're done speaking, you'll be each given a sign to take home to to display proudly over your fireplace. But then more importantly, we've purchased two signs so that you'll be able to choose one hallway of your choice in our schools and that we will display that in recognition of all your leadership service over the years. So, let's start with a round of applause. >> You have both given so very much and I'll be looking forward to my comments come superintendent report as well, but I'll turn the mic over to Sher and Jake. >> Yeah. So, as the longest serving uh cabinet members, we wanted to to speak on behalf of our of our cabinet and our superintendent cabinet. So, um we have some statements as well. So, I have served with Kitty and Frank uh for some years now, and I just wanted to say a few words of thanks to them at their last school board meeting before their official retirement from the board. >> Uh they've both taught me so much um about the importance of the board and I've even seen their feedback in action as it helped shape my interactions um with the board and especially the port the reports that we put together for the board and for our community. Um it was great to have Frank Shaw back on the board again for another stint. Uh Frank shared at our last meeting that he served on the first district curriculum advisory committee meeting. Now I wasn't at that point. I wasn't there uh to lead that meeting at the time but um Frank served with me during some of my time um as chair of our DCEC. Uh and Frank was always had helpful and skeptical uh uh feedback about the different standardized assessments that we give to our students um from the state and the district level. Um he asked great questions that I often didn't have the answer to at the moment. Um but it helped me to grow in my depth of knowledge um within the realms of assessment and he would often push and guide me in ways that help the board and us as administrators uh review data in more clear, understandable and in-depth ways. So thank you Frank and Kitty always has the best questions. um they're often at such a level of depth that cause us to pause and think. Um she provided me with great feedback um on so many of the reports that we provide to the school board and the public which made us better as district administrative teams and as our school board. Uh her memory and attention for details for our board reports and our board agenda items kept us accountable to our community and to the school board. Kitty was also always very generous with her time serving on many district uh committees beyond the board required ones. Um one that I think about from years ago was our time on the elementary program review committee. Uh she volunteered as a consultant to our process. Um helped me to develop our goals uh agendas and processes for discussing data and guidance on the next steps. So, I want to say a huge thank you to both uh Frank and Kitty for their years of service on our school board and for serving our community and being advocates for our students. So, thank you all. >> I can't match that. Um, I will say, and I'm slightly older than Jake, um, in my 35-y year career as a school business manager, I've had the pleasure of serving with many school board members. I am uniquely fortunate to have served with both Kitty and Frank for several years in Roseville area schools. Kitty, thanks for your support, especially in school finance. You've been part of the district finance committee since its inception seven years ago. You have pushed administration in a good way to increase transparency in our financial reporting even when uncomfortable when uncomfortable and it has been uncomfortable at times >> but the outcomes have been excellent. So thank you. uh you have worked tirelessly on behalf of our students and community even this fall when you you were not even running for reelection. You are out knocking on doors every day in promoting the safety and technology levy because it's what's best for kids. You may be tiny and have tiny little feet, but you have big shoes to fill. And Frank, thank you for your ongoing commitment to students in this community. Even after completing your previous tenure as a board member, you continued providing services to our community, serving on the district finance committee and volunteering in our schools. And then when a vacancy opened up this this year, you answered the call and stepped forward to fill that void. I appreciate the time um that I was able to serve with you in the in um negotiations. >> I value that time. Um I especially appreciate the calm, even and confident leadership that you have provided over the years. You are a true champion for our students and community. Thank you both for your unwavering commitment and wise guidance on the school board. Your dedication to the students and community has left a lasting legacy. Lastly, don't either of you forget. You have both committed to serving as residents on our district finance advisory board. And I will remind you of that come January. So, thank you. you want to present the signs and then you both are welcome to provide comments or save them for this board report. It's up to you. >> That's okay. >> Oh, that is fantastic. >> And we'll get some pictures after the meeting. >> After what? >> Thank you so much. That is >> Thank you. >> Unbelievable. >> You'll reserve your comments. Yeah, I will reserve mine to you later. >> One big one more big round of applause >> and enjoy reflecting upon where you'd like us to hang the second sign. Okay, one hallway. >> All right. >> Okay. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> All right. Um item number four, summary of community input receipt for action items. Um I I would like to mention that one of the action items this evening is the board will be voting on the final levy certification. So we did um that is something that I want to make sure the public understands that we did have a public hearing uh before uh this meeting. So we did hear from the public on on the budget um they spoke about the final levy certification and how they're impacted. I at least wanted to get that out that we the board did hear from the public. Um so I think that's germanine to number four. >> Okay. So all right moving on to number five. Uh the consent agenda. Uh we do not have any retirements for this evening. Um uh we will be uh getting to the gifts, but I'd like to for now entertain a motion to approve this evening's consent agenda. >> So moved. All right. It's been moved. >> All right. Moved and seconded. Any further discussion? >> Okay. All those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> All those opposed. >> All right. Consent agenda has passed and I would love director Katy Gogggins to give our final recognition of our wonderful community for gifts. Thank you. >> Um, Little Canada Elementary School received from Rebecca Nimi funds for school needs. Roseberry High School received a number of gifts. One from the US Bank Foundation, funds for school needs. The Roseville Area Wrestling Booster Club, funds for wrestling match. from Allison Ecklund, funds for the orchestra tour uh scholarship and a bus for the middle school and then from Roseville area schools generally received from Aaron Mastrian funds for our district needs. As always, we're incredibly fortunate to have a generous community and over the years I've seen so many examples of that generosity and just feel very lucky to be in this community. >> Thank you. Thank you, Director Gardens. All right, that moves us to reports and non-action items. First up is we have executive director Sheri Thompson. Come on up. And we have some >> We're actually um we're making a last minute shift. Uh if it's okay with the board, I'd like to have the students present first so that they may head out if I could have some grace from our auditing firm. Okay. >> Sure. Okay. >> All right. So, let's bring the students up first, please, if everyone is okay with that change. >> Sure. Board's all right with that. >> Is that a sense to the board? Do we need to vote on that? No, >> I we're not changing the agenda, just the order if it's just want to make sure. Please. >> Oh, yeah. >> Thank you for being here. >> We're going to 60. Yeah. Got it. >> Okay. >> Ybody. >> So, will be Associate Superintendent Don Smith. We have some students here with us this evening. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right. Greetings board and this evening on this very Minnesota Minnesota day. >> Yep. >> Um my name is Don Smith, associate superintendent. And I just want to um take some time for our our students who join me up here to just introduce themselves. >> Name and maybe my name is Raymond Dart. Can you say one more time? Did you actually turn it off? You don't have to touch. >> Oh, my bad. >> Uh, my name is Raymond Darts. I'm a freshman at Roseville Area High School. >> Thanks for being here. >> My name is Summer Belfans and I am a junior at Roseville Area High School. >> Thank you. >> Hi, my name is Milyn and I'm a junior at Roseville Area High School. Thank you. >> Hi, my name is Everett and I'm a senior at Roseville Area High School. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. Thanks for being here, guys. >> So, I ask the students to join me as part of this uh first reading of policy. I'm going to stick with what I wrote because I kind of explain everything. So, as part of this ongoing policy review, I'm bringing forth policy 432. It's a tobacco free environment for the first reading of policy revision. This policy was last reviewed in November of 2019. Um, I believe it was November 12th school board meeting. Uh, members of the uh, these students here, members of the Association of Non-Smokers in Minnesota, ANSR, Ramsey County student action team requested changes to our tobaccof free environment policy. This group is comprised of 20 students from RAZ, Mount View, Irondale, White Lake, and North schools. Their goal is to reduce in our community through education and advocacy. They asked the district for updates to our tobacco policy. And those uh include these four points, updating the definition for commercial tobacco, not accepting industry donations. Oh, I'm not even speaking the mic, am I? All right. Thought I was using my teacher. A spiritual exemption for smudging supporting students with treatment options over suspension. Now, our current policy has language around at least two of those points um of not accepting industry donations and spiritual exemptions for smudging. Um but in collaboration with these students um we did we've added a revised language in those areas um using the MSBA model policy 419 and um the commercial tobaccof free K12 model policy from the public health law center at the Metro Hamlin School of Law which was introduced uh by this group of students. Uh we've also added a definition for commercial tobacco and um we're one of the suggestions is a a slight name change in the policy so that the policy would now read commercial tobaccof free environment possession and use of commercial tobacco tobacco related devices and electric delivery devices. I got all that out. All right. So, um, at this time, we have not revised the policy to address the group's final request, which was supporting students with treatment options over suspensions. While the district agrees that suspension is not the answer to all what I would call teachable moments, um, that our students were experienced, we understand this change impacts many systems and just needs a little bit more conversation to ensure we do it right. So, I look forward to continue working with this group of students uh, throughout that process. So at this time I wanted to take you through the policy um in a way that hopefully makes sense and kind of speak of the different changes. I believe you have uh kind of what the red lines in front of you so you can see the changes. Mostly what you'll notice um at least um cons trying to be consistent throughout is that tobacco has been replaced with commercial tobacco uh throughout this particular policy. One of the things that we did if to bring your attention to 2.0 O um we uh created a new 2.1 um because throughout this policy we we did not have a definition for tobacco or commercial tobacco. We had a definition for a tobaccof free environment but no definition for tobacco. So that was added and is now the new 2.1 which slides everything down for the most part. And so you'll notice that the the previous 2.1 is now 2.2. Um, and then the previous 2.2 is now 2.3. Um, what another thing I want you to notice is there's been a 2.4 added um because it just just used to go to 2.3. um but um made the decision to take the original 2.3 and break it into two different pieces because it was addressing um school personnel not soliciting um or accepting contributions and and then the other part of it talked about school personnel not participating in promotions. So just decided to split those out um so that it it kind of flowed a little bit better and made a little bit a little bit more sense. Um if we continue on to 3.0 used to say all individuals on school premises shall adhere to this policy um added um with the suggestion from this group added a definition for visitors. So our policy talks about like violations by visitors but once again doesn't define what a visitor is. And so we've added that suggestion um for for a visitor to mean you know anyone that's not a student, staff or administrator. Um so that's a suggestion that was added. If we keep going um to the violations of the policy, what you'll notice some changes there. Once again, that 4.1 talks about action taken for student violations of this policy will be in accordance with policy 623, I'm sorry, district 623, policy 520. That's the piece that we're going to continue to have discussion around um because our student group has been really clear that they want to see um some language around secession programs there. Um but once again, we'll continue into conversation around that. So, I want to point that out. There were some things added to um 4.3 as far as violations by visitors of this policy and the things that were added there included just really clarifying like if I go to a sports event and I pay my money to go in and then I get have to leave because I was using commercial tobacco. It's clear that you're not going to refund your money. So wanted to make that clear in policy and that if if there were repeated offenses that we would have the right to refuse you into events in the future. So that's an suggestion that was added to 4.3 for your consideration. Last couple things um added a 5.0. So the 4.0 O section used to have a 4.5 which talked about um it's not a violation to use uh tobacco in um like ceremony um and things like that. Um decided to make that a separate section so that it didn't lie in the violation section even though it said it's not a violation. Um so decided to make an exemption section 5.0 O and you'll see the language around there about uh American Indian staff or student members may use tobacco say sweet grass um so on and so forth and that language comes from uh MSBA model policy 419. So those were those proposed changes. Hopefully that made sense but we'll take some time for any questions that you may have um or any additional suggestions that you may have around this policy. And um just last thing I'll say before I open that up is that uh we are looking to have a second reading of this policy take place January 13th. So I'll open it up. I've already informed our students that there may be some questions that may come their way and feel free to answer. Um but we are here for any thoughts or suggestions that you have. >> All right. Hello board members. >> Yep. um if there if compounds are extracted from tobacco, would this cover that or does that then go under the chemical um policy? So like nicotine or I mean >> yeah if that's >> what the active ingredients are, >> right? That's uh that's a good question. I would think and my initial answer which I'm not even confident in I'm going to write this down is that that it may end up going into the chemical use. I think it's 404 or posy 404 if that is the case because if we look at the definition of what commercial tobacco is um and then any of those components are removed that's would be my initial thought but >> I just want to make sure it's covered somewhere that doesn't fall between the cracks. >> Yeah. So yeah it is there's other um chemical use things that are covered in positive 404. >> Okay. Then a second question or actually this is more of a comment. Um, I'm concerned about the wording on 3.1. It says visitors means any person subject to this policy that is not a student, staff, or administrator. Yes. >> So, how do I know if I'm subject to the policy? To me, I think what we'd want to say rather is any person on our property that is not a student, staff, or administrator is considered a visitor. >> Gotcha. That makes sense. >> So, that I I can't say, well, I'm not a I'm not a visitor. I'm a whatever. Mhm. Can you say like so any any um >> any person on >> any person on our school property that is not a student, staff or administrator is considered a visitor. >> Gotcha. >> Yeah, we can make that definitely make that adjustment. >> An example would be a contractor. >> Yeah. >> As an example, >> right? I mean, they're still from our perspective, they're a visitor and subject to this, but they could say, "Well, I'm not because I'm a contract or something. You just want to be >> right that I I >> clearer >> definitely makes sense. Y >> thank you. >> Any >> So you you had a question about there's something here that's not included and you want to have conversation. Say more about that process. you want to talk about that? >> Well, same what you were thinking and >> well, specifically um what our group does, we're usually focused on cessation for those that are addicted to commercial tobacco products. >> And while we understand that like laying out the penalties for um the use of those nicotine products in schools on that property is definitely like the business of the school board. Um, we also just wanted to make it clear that we are also in support of including cessation measures that were not outlined at all within this draft >> and and what I thank you for that and what I'm understanding is that because by including that it might kind of impact other policies. >> Yeah. >> So are you thinking that by the second reading we've got that or we have a initials? Yeah, I think we're my thought is that we for the second reading we uh approve these initial suggestions with the idea that we'll continue that conversation around um what that looks like. Some of the some of the information that I've looked through that's been provided by this group around that. um just had some real specific language around um you know administrators um you know um working with secession programs when students you know are found to violate this policy and just some of the some of the the pieces there we want to make sure that we um have the capacity to do those things um that if we whatever we put in writing we can actually do and it's just so it's just a matter of really checking with those >> with those things um around that right now like um policy 520 um gives a well it really talks about violations of any piece of policy 520 which if we violated this we will violate a piece of 520 but it gives a number of different uh responses to that and so you know it'd be nice if we could hone in on some real specific responses which is what this group is asking when it comes to students who may be addicted or struggling we just don't have the language for it right now >> okay I'd offer some of the cessation language and so forth that may be placed in the handbook as well. More of there's no regulations that follow this policy, but it may be built into our practices. >> And I would just like to say that in terms of cessation, we are not necessarily interested in going against discipline. >> Um mostly a lot of it is referrals and just hammering out like how we're going to create that infrastructure for people moving forward after these disciplinary >> conflicts. It's not going to be going against necessarily what we've already laid out. >> Great. >> Just a quick question. Oh, sorry for >> Go ahead. >> Um 2.4 >> uh students, staff, administrators, or other school personnel will not participate in the promotion of these products, you know, via gear and so on. just maybe I'm just curious as a group have you had discussions about I know you can help with educating your fellow students you know and just you know when when it talk when we talk about you know that that specific about that point that point the promotion conversations about how you can help further help or just what that might look like part of the education your fellow students or just how you maybe be involved I guess in just helping or a process is it it's educating your fellow students just your peers just what that might look like just briefly or what you're currently doing again. >> Yeah. So um we have had a bath a ro bathroom campaign where we have put up flyers um just educating a lot of our students in the high school about um tobacco industry marketing and we also put quit kits which is like a little quick kit for like um to quit vaping in also the bathrooms. Um we have also done peer-to-peer education in um local middle schools where we give presentations about again tobacco industry marketing and the harms of vaping on health um to um their health classes I believe. Yeah. So we could also um potentially do that in Roseville, the Rosville district. I'm not sure how that would work out logistically, but also we could follow up with you with that um with Katie too. >> Um but yeah, that's what it kind of looks like for on our side to educate our great >> peers. Great. Thank you. >> I presented at um Chipoa Middle School about what's in a vape, what does a vape do to your brain, what does a vape do to your body, what should you do if someone you know is vaping? A lot of subjects along those lines. >> Thank you. >> Wonderful. Thank you, Kitty. >> I was just going to ask through your um partnership with these other schools, etc., have you seen um uh or worked with any organizations that could help with the s cessation program in terms of referrals, etc.? Are you aware of agencies that you can share with the district that might be able to provide those kind of supports once students are identified? >> Um yeah, I do not know the answer to that question right now, but we will definitely follow up with you. Um, great. Yep. Thank you. Sorry. >> There is a program called My Life, My Quit that still exists, right? >> Okay. >> And, um, it's for minors under 18 to get help with vape with quitting vaping or commercial tobacco anonymously. And you can text or call. >> Yeah. So, that's called My Life, My Quit. And there's another program that is in the works for um everyone, not just under 18 >> and for all over the country because my life my quit is only in Minnesota. >> Oh, look forward to learning more. >> Yeah, definitely. >> I have a question. So, when I look at both 2.3 and 2.4, >> it says what we will not do. Mhm. >> What happened when somebody does >> Yeah. So that I believe that's captured in 4.0. >> Um so like uh 4.2. >> Yeah. I see >> referring to staff violations and then the student violations. Um >> and they get to meet with Kenyatta McCarti. >> Yes. Yeah. Yeah. and totally open to, you know, any thoughts on if we need to beef that up or make that more clear type thing. >> It's 4.1 say student violations. >> Yeah. But 42.2 then >> and then 4.3 >> staff violations. >> Yeah. Visitors and community members. So it kind of try to hit those three different groups of individuals. >> Can I ask something? Um it says >> staff violations in 4.1 but then adult students in 4.3. >> Does it mention students below the age of 18 at all or >> Yeah. So that's 4.1. >> Yeah. >> Actions taken for student violations. >> Yeah. >> Good question. >> Maybe it was just a break up of the page that kind of Yeah. >> Is that cleared up for you, Rose, or better idea? Okay. Love the collaboration. >> Thank you all. >> Thank you. Thank you. >> Just so proud of you. >> Y say sorry. Sorry, director. Um but no, this it's been it's been good working with the students. We've, you know, we've done things over email. Um I've really appreciated it. They have strong advocacy because I'll put some out and they'll say, "Well, think about this." So it's not just taking, you know, things at face value. So um We have some amazing um current leaders and and and who will continue to be leaders um not just at the state level but at the federal level as well. And so these students should be commended for the work they do. Um and I just appreciate y'all allowing me to to work with you on this policy. >> Well done. >> Thank you guys. >> Forward to the second reading in January. >> Thank you. >> Thank you so much. All right. Now, we will welcome executive director of business services, Sheri Thompson. And we have some special guests with here with us here this evening to go over our 2024 2025 audit report. >> Grace, I used the word grace even. I just must have been thinking about you. >> Oh, that's mine. Sorry. >> Oh, good. No, I'm just glad we found the office. >> So, good evening again. Oh, pass one down. Denise isn't going to be without um good evening again. Um I'm very pleased to have with us uh this evening um our uh partners, our auditors uh from Clifton, Larson, Allen. You have met be previously you have met Troy Gabler. Troy was a director the last time he appeared uh in front of the board. Troy is now a principal. I'm also honored to introduce Grace Trazinski. Uh Trac's uh Grace is a director. She has been working on our audit for what four or five years? Something like that. >> So she is the lead. She does an excellent job. I think most of you know are aware of Denise. Uh Denise Mikkel, our controller. Denise is the engine that keeps everything moving. Denise is the reason that we are here when we want to be here uh in December as far as with our audit. So, um I'm very pleased to uh to share the table with the uh these three this evening. And I am going to just hand it over to Troy and to Grace to move through the presentation. >> Yeah. Thank you for the Can you hear me through this? >> The clicker. >> So, yeah. >> And is this working? Okay. Can you hear me? Okay. >> Yeah. >> All right. Um, well, thanks so much. That's a wonderful introduction, Sherry. Um, and she is correct in working with uh Denise and the team. Uh, this year has been very smooth from an audit perspective. Um, and we are very excited to share the very positive results that we have this year as well. So, I'll get moving along here. So, this first slide will just go over some of the audit results. Uh, so this first piece is on your audit opinion. We have an unmodified or clean audit opinion. Um, very typical of an audit we perform for the district. Uh, that means we've gotten uh good assurance and support for all of the material or larger balances that we test throughout the audit. uh you certainly wouldn't want a modified report. Um and that is the best opinion that we can offer um as a result of an audit. The second piece is the yellowbook compliance. Uh we did not run into any compliance with laws or regulations that would have a material effect on the audit. That's something that we look for as we go through things um kind of in compliance with auditing governments. in the yellow book. Internal controls. Uh this is where we would bring to your attention any area where we had uh if we had any large adjustments that were the result of audit procedures. If we saw any controls that weren't functioning properly that could potentially lead to a large um adjustment. Um we found none of that this year. Um and so we do not have any internal control findings. Um that's a very positive thing. It's a large district with a lot of things going on. Um, oftentimes there is an item or two at most of the presentations we provide for these. Um, and so that shows that things are being documented and the recommendations that we've had in the past have continued to be implemented. Then we also performed a single audit or an audit over the federal spending of the district and we also did not have any single audit recommendations or items. Um, that's super rare. Uh usually we have procurement issues uh with the types of spending that we see at districts. That's very common. Um or there'll just be something random not signed because of how strict some of that guidance is. Um but here we do not have any findings or issues this year. Um so that is a that is a very big highlight for any of the folks working in um the different programs that you have. So anybody working over federal expenditures um I think that is should be applauded. I think that that is difficult to do and it's a lot of documentation that has to happen year to year. So, and then the legal compliance recommendation or item that we have there, that's really the result of the audit not having been issued by the end of December last year. Uh, you could not get rid of that. Um, but it should be gone then next year. It's just a fund balance thing with the numbers that get uploaded. Um, so now that things are back on track, that should come off next year. Any questions on the recommendations or lack thereof? >> Yeah. >> All right. Um, so I'll get into a couple of the first graphs, then I'm going to turn it over to Grace. Uh, this first one here is really showing the general fund fund balance activities. Um, so you can kind of see between 2022 and 2024, there's a healthy buildup of unassigned um general fund balance. Um, right now the fund policy has a minimum balance of 6% of expenditures. Um and your unassigned fund balance is about 11%. Uh now we do recommend in total you want to get a fund balance of between 20 to 25%. You can see the other items that you have as a part of fund balance are quite low. Um and so you'll want to potentially continue to build up that unassigned fund balance. Uh the one thing to think about is while there are large dollar amounts associated with this um and I know that gets focused a lot when it comes time for negotiations and things like that. um this is really only five to six weeks of operating funds. So if you have issues like getting title funding like happened in the past year or things like that, having the contingency of some extra funds to cover things like that is helpful. Um then the other piece there is now we're in a little bit more of a highinterest environment when you consider debt. So if you have a little bit more unassigned fund balance and you have a project that pops up, you could still certainly issue debt for it. having the option to not do that um because investment income that subsidizes taxes could be preferable over debt that then has a debt service levy associated with it on taxpayers. Um and so just some things to consider and I think that that's you have a healthy trend going on at the district and I would encourage you to cons continue doing that. So if you're able to this next slide here, uh this one I've just included to show that the um types of expenditures don't change much year to year in proportion to the total. Um so really the point of this is of course expenditures are going to tick up each year with inflation and the costs and how they rise. Um but overall the buckets in which the district spends stay very similar year to year. Um, and I think one of the areas to um, kind of look at there is, you know, the majority of your funding is really going to programming, and that's what you'd like to see at a district. So, I'll let Grace go through the next few slides. All right. This graph, we're taking a look at fund balance as a percent of expenditures for the general fund. That light blue line is your total fund balance of the general fund and your dark blue line is the unassigned fund balance. Un assigned fund balance is basically fund balance that is not restricted, committed, or assigned for a specific use or purpose. As Troy pointed out on the last slide, we generally recommend again that it's falls between 20 to 25% as a long-term goal. As like I said, five to six weeks that would provide and right now the Minnesota statewide average is sitting around 22% just for reference as well. Um, so as you can see, the district is about half of what we're recommending as a long-term goal, but again, the last couple of years, you can see that the general fund fund balance has had an upward trend, and if it continues to do so, those percentages will continue to climb as well. This slide, we're taking a look at the summary of enrollment. On the left, we have the total current residents as well as open enrollment. And on the right we have the categories of enrollment. What we wanted to highlight here is that even with increasing or decreasing total enrollment, the categories coming from each of these is remaining relatively uh the same in terms of percentages. Over the five-year time frame that we're presenting here, overall student counts based on average daily membership has decreased by 155 students. We know the district is aware of this and incorporates it in its budgeting, but again wanted to highlight that the fund balance in your general fund is continuing to increase. So no worries there. On this slide, we're taking a look at the unassigned fund balance per ADM or per student. What this graph really shows is a steady uptick in your unassigned fund balance that is available to spend per student. Part of the reason why it is increasing so steeply is because again you're building up that fund balance the past couple of years and also dealing with some changes in your total enrollment. Here we have a summary of the total revenues by source code for the general fund. Those source codes being property taxes, state sources, federal sources, and other revenue which would include interest earnings and investment income. Um the total revenues for the general fund increased around $2 million from the prior year and you can see that revenues has continued to increase over the past five years which is good to see given the cost of inflation impacting expenditures overall as well. The main driver for your increase in revenue from the prior year is your increase in property taxes from your approved tax levy as well as some state revenue sources specifically related to special education revenue. The last thing we kind of wanted to just highlight on this slide is you will see some fluctuations related to federal sources from that revenue. Um, going back to kind of the CO 19 pandemic in 22 through 24, the district received some of those CO9 pandemic relief funds where those have started to fall off. So those will um be smaller going forward as well. On this slide, we're taking a look at the expenditures per student in the general fund. as we've kind of mentioned on the previous slide with the district being able to build up its fund balance that means there has been an excess of revenues over expenditures. So even though you can see that the expenditure per student amount is also increasing again your fund balance is increasing. So to be able to have both trends is something very commendable to both district staff for its budgeting as well as to all of you for the board for monitoring that as well for those positive results. Moving on to the food service fund, we have this graph that shows the total revenues, expenditures, and fund balance. As a reminder, the free meals bill went into effect in fiscal year 24, which made all meals, breakfast, and lunch free for all students. So that explains the large uptick in your revenues from 23 to 24 and then your revenues for fiscal year 25 remained relatively consistent with it now being a second year of that program. Expenditures also increased slightly from the prior year due to just some increase in meal costs as well as some capital related expenditures for repairs and other upgrades for the food service program. The fund balance in your food service fund remains very strong, which means that the district is able to cover any capital purchases or any unexpected emergency purchases and be able to do so with ease while continuing to operate the program. Here we have a nice summary of the total meals served to students for the past five fiscal years. As mentioned with the free meals bill that explains the large increase in the total number of meals from 23 to 24 and similar um kind of a number of meals for 25. We are anticipating a more reliable trend of this going forward as right now we still have data from the co 19 pandemic 21 and 22 and we'll call it the the one-off year of 23 when meals went back to being the normal categories. I guess you could call them normal the reduced free and fullpriced meals. So, just wanted to highlight that as well. Also, taking a look at your community service fund. Again, showing your revenues, expenditures, and fund balance. The community service fund has had a gradual increase in your fund balance, and that is due to continued interest from the community in the programming that the district is offering, which is overall really great to see as the district is able to continue to operate these programs without needing to subsidize from any of the other operating funds. So, very strong results overall for the community service fund. All right, I'm going to pass it back to Troy to talk about some last financial results and then the upcoming Gazsby standards. >> Right. Um, so here what I've included is just some averages from 2024. Um, that first column is just showing statewide and now these are broken up into the buckets that are presented on the financial statements. Um, that second column is just the seven county metro area and the districts located within there. Um, and then the third is the largest category that they offer, which is greater than 4,000 students. So, um, the closest to a peer group that you'll get basically off of the MDE numbers. Um, you'll see on average, you know, it's kind of floats around that 22,000 per student. Um, Roseville is sitting at about 24,000 total. Um, one thing to point out when you're looking at data like this is what you tend to see on the higher side is when you're in a community with a decreasing ADMs because you are really looking at price per student um in an inflationary time, right? So, um that's not I don't think that that is atypical um for what you see with the community that you're in. Um but some of the areas to look at as you can see the debt service um that is probably a little bit higher on average. of course you guys are very aware of debt and thoughtful about when you issue that. Um and then the other piece is really um just some of those special education services along with instructional support services. So again spending on students and student programming. Um but I just thought the comparative information might be helpful and interesting to the board. >> All right, this next slide I'm going to talk about some of the upcoming standards. Um I didn't have an item on here for it, but this year we did uh implement um you know you have implemented 101 in terms of you know compensated absences and how that affects the district. So um that did that does triple it in most cases. Um and so you don't have necessarily new liabilities related with PTO or sick time. Uh but most of the districts I work with it triple the liability. So, um, you only really see that on the governmental activities, um, statement because it's a long-term liability. Um, just wanted to highlight nothing really changed in terms of the benefits you owe. The likely cash outlay for those liabilities is the same as it has been in the past. Uh, it is just being calculated in a little bit different way. Um, so if you notice that increase this year, that's why. Uh, and that does actually take a lot a little bit of work to get to as well. So, and the district did a nice job implementing that and working with us on that. So, it didn't cause any issues. That is a place that we saw a lot of hang-ups at other audits. So, um now upcoming what we have so we do have Gazby 103 coming into play next year. Um this will update a little bit of the MDNA language. So instead of explaining like why a fluctuation year-over-year like why did this increase 20% from last year, it'll be a little bit more um forward-looking and talking about policies and kind of overarching trends. Uh so it'll be a little bit different layout there and we'll provide a template um after we look at the implementation guidance for that for the district to work with. Uh it also will change some of the budgetary comparisons will be required to be an RSI. Uh we knew that this has been coming for a while. they've already been in RSI for the district for some time now. Um, as we knew that was coming up. And then if you had enterprise funds, um, there's going to be a new category in there, but since you don't have uh what you consider a typical enterprise fund, you won't see anything. But, um, they have what they call subsidies in there. So, if you were to have like intergovernmental revenue or transfers in subsidizing a business type activity, it'll call it out a little bit differently. Again, won't affect the district in this case. And then Gazsby statement 4 is for disclosures of certain capital assets. So, this really requires with all like the new leases and subscription assets and things they've added the last few years. It's just requiring it to be broken out. So, say you had a leased copier and a copier you owned. Um you'd have to list one as a leased right to use asset and another one as equipment. Um the district already breaks it out this way um for clarity purposes already, but it forces other entities that don't to do the same. Um, so it won't have a large change in your report, but it may increase the comparability to others. All right, last but not least, we welcome any feedback and questions you have on the audit process this year. >> Who wants to >> I just want to say thank you. This is like such good news. My goodness. >> Yes. >> Such great news. So, thank you. Thank you to the team. um to kind of work with you know kind of you to do this. So really appreciate I appreciate the collaboration. We've come a long way. >> We have we have we have a good team in the business office and um as well and yes we've >> worked well with Clifton Larson Allen and >> um our program administrators have done well. >> Yeah. Uh I will point out right so the final report will be into the department of education. We've submitted all the data uh prior to December 31st. >> You will get copies of the audit >> and then we will ask that you take action to accept the audit >> uh at your meeting on January 13th. >> The fact that we will submit on >> Yes. But it everything will be submitted and it will it will be shared out. We're just um working through the the final drafts right now. >> It is such a celebration of your work and your collaboration and just thank you. Thank you so much. >> We appreciate the emphasis the district has had on um kind of working with us on improving the process as well uh because we can't do it um without that. A lot of it comes down to the level of care that the district has on the process as well. So >> yeah, and I I especially want to commend Denise and Grace on this >> because they both kept really kept things moving along. >> The engine. I like that. >> Every year we get a little smarter on what they're going to ask for. So I think that helps. >> And how to Yeah. Yeah. And the entire business office team. >> Um Kathy England who works a lot with our federal programs, >> the grants, like she >> does an excellent in the leases. She does an excellent job on that and works with the departments on expectations too. And that's why I think it is important. And thank you for pointing out as far as single audit >> like she works really focuses in in working with other departments on this is what we need >> and consistently follows up. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. I would say comparatively now the past year couple years we've gotten much much better reports than we see at other um entities we work with in terms of the single audit which makes it go a lot faster um kind of due to the department understanding like okay here's what they need and this is what the what they have to select from so that's gone a long ways and also if you don't mind me chiming in since this might be last time Kitty sits across from us you've also had wonderful questions for over the years as part of the finance committee. >> Um I know we've been on a few teams calls over the years and I've always appreciated your interest in the audit. >> Um haven't gotten as much of a chance to >> um work with >> Director Shaw. Um but I would say that I really appreciate both the involvement and just in general um the emphasis that the district the past few years has been putting on the audit. We really appreciate that and we like working with invested clients that care about their financial results and want to fix problems and support the departments and remedying um findings and stuff. So, >> well, they're not going anywhere. >> That's right. That's what I heard. Yeah, >> still on the hook for it to help with this final edit on our draft. So, just reinforce that today. >> Thank you. Thank you guys so much. Thank you guys so much. >> Thanks for having us out. >> Well done. >> All right, we have an update. >> We are moving on to our action items for the evening. Um, final levy certification. Uh, executive director Sher Thompson will stay right there. >> Yes. Thank you. So yes, prior to the regular meeting, um we did uh hold our annual truth and tax solution hearing. >> Uh we have be uh before you uh the uh proposed tax levy uh for taxes payable uh in uh 2026, which will fund the 2627 school year. Uh the uh total uh is 59,66,86422. This includes uh the $6 million which our community um uh approved uh in November in the form of a capital projects levy. Um $6 million a year for the next 10 years. Uh and we are so fortunate for that support. But that um is a big portion of this increase. Um and we are seeking approval. Uh we are recommending that the board approve this final levy. >> Great questions. >> I just ask Sher but you you have I don't think you specified it. What percentage is that? So So what what's the percentage increase if it did not include that $6 million? So the total um the total increase is 17.43%. >> Uh 11.8% is the $6 million. >> Okay. So if we do the subtraction, it's 6%. >> So it is just under 6%. >> Under 6%. Okay. Yeah. Good. >> Uh as far as the increase and again that was due to some prior year adjustments in our long-term facility maintenance for the most part. >> And thank you for asking that question because that's some of the answer to a priority. >> That's right. Yes. >> Yes. Thank you. >> Yeah. >> Yeah. >> All right. Um I will entertain a motion uh to approve the final levy certification. >> I'd like to move it. Okay. >> Okay. It's been moved. Is there a second? >> A second. >> Okay. It's been moved and seconded. Been moved and seconded. Uh we Any further discussion on the motion before us? All right. Seeing none, all those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. I. >> All those opposed. Motion carries. >> Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Very important and ceremonial. >> All right. Uh moving on to the next action item. Uh this is um this one should go fairly quickly. Uh this is rescheduling our January 13th uh work study session. Um, the board will consider to change the time of the study session now that we're heading into the new year instead of having the study session afterwards board approval to change it to 4:30 p.m. and end at 6 p.m. Uh, the community inputs listening session will still happen. That'll begin at 6 o'clock. Um, but I don't know if there's any further discussion or mention something. >> No, thank you for that. And then in January, we'll bring forward the calendar moving forward with that earlier study session pending approval from the board. And I have checked with our incoming board elect members as well. >> So this is almost like a a transition, >> just a one step to the full. >> One step to the full board members. Yeah. >> Y >> Okay. Well, I will make the initial motion. I move to reschedule the study session on January 13th to begin at 4:30 p.m. Is there a second? So move I mean second sorry >> moved and seconded. Any further discussion before us? All right seeing none all those in favor signify by saying I. >> I. >> All those opposed. >> Motion carries. Thank you. >> All right. Uh board reports. I will start with clerk Chu. >> Okay. I think um couple of things I want to report on. I w I was at the AMSD board of directors meeting that's the association for metropolitan school district meeting and there was a presentation on dual enrollment which means like PSO kind of students having a chance to take college uh classes that carry college credits and it was a very good report because there was a survey done statewide high and really with that survey the office of high ed is hoping to improve on process trying to understand what what are the implication on funding what are the implication on access what are the implication on support so um that report is actually online I'm pretty sure it's online now office from office of higher ed so I thought that was very interesting because you know for for Roseville we know that that's a big part of being equitable right kind of making sure that many of our students have access to that uh to that um opportunity to take college courses while they are still in high school. So um that was great. And then um I I'm not I've never done this and I'm going to do this today. I serve on the Ramsey County lo local league of government uh entity and and over the years I've really appreciate what uh what what it does and I realized I've never like read right kind of the the the uh the purpose. So I thought maybe I'll read that purpose for the community. The purpose of RCLG is to create opportunities for local government to share ideas and resources, promote professional learning and engagement, and take collective action on common issues for the benefit of our communities. And in this case, it's the whole of Ramsey County and school boards are I mean school districts are part of that. And so um we on in our last board meeting we just um approved a 2026 strategic plan and um the three areas are member engagement and communication and they are monthly learning um opportunities which is amazing to me. I've learned so much about watershed districts, which I don't even know what that was before, or went to visit um places that really are the infrastructure that support the whole of Ramsey County, including our district um our school district and and then and then to that is available to for the whole district for the whole district. So um um and then there are and then there is also collective work and next this coming year the focus will be on water kind of like the supply of water the treatment of water in all of Ramsey County and um and definitely the the member engagement also include ways to connect each other not only through technical and professional work uh where we have like member member um engagement events where people just come together and do something. The one that I went to last uh last year I I couldn't go this year on on some of them was Xthrowing. So that was just fun kind of you know being with other local government um um uh elected officials and just kind of like connect with each other as community. Um so uh so we actually have an annual meeting this Thursday and that's happens every year. It's a great way for everybody to come together. So uh anyone in our district because we are member you are um um able to go um >> is that the holiday party? That's well it's it's an annual meeting sort of a holiday party with a recap of what has happened in the last year looking ahead and then we always have a keynote there is very good um if you're interested you have to let me know because I think the official registration is closed but I think if you let me know we can probably think about that it's it's just a great event to be you know legislators are there park and wreck you know you know uh uh directors are there, mayors are there. Um so it's a it's just a great opportunity to be in community as Ramsey County. So So those are that's my report. >> Thank you. >> So let me know. Yeah, >> Borasheski. >> Thank you, Cher. A couple things. So, um, I had the pleasure of being the board's representative to the Minnesota Schoolboard Association delegate assembly this past weekend where 116 board members from across the state gathered and discussed and voted on which um, policies and and things that MSBA uh, will lobby the legislature to work on in 2026. Either laws that would pass or amend or repeal or whatever. I think we voted on 36 uh there like 2025 that passed. Um I don't need to go into detail. Um but for those who may be watching, it's kind of the first step actually in a process because um we have a legislative action committee here in Roseville that some of us are part of and some of the cabinet. Uh, and over the next several months, we'll be working to craft what we think in Roseville we also want to support that would align with what MSBA is supporting andor also AMSD, Association of >> Metropolitan School District, Metro Area School Districts. >> Um, and then we'll lobby our legislators. We'll actually visit the capital at least a day or two and kind of have that out there. So, um, again, it was just an interesting experience. It always is. Some of my colleagues have been there before. uh just seeing the different opinions and the different things that uh are desired from our legislature depending on if you're a large school district, a small school district, a rural school district, urban school district, different priorities across the state. So that was fun. Um I also had the uh joy of attending the inaugural meeting of the Harambe school uh forest school committee that is now designated after our our board resolution several meetings ago as an official uh department of natural resources uh forest school. So, uh, the committee is chaired by Jenny Ecman, a teacher at Harambe, uh, and involves teachers, parents, administrators, various folks. Maybe eight or 10 people showed up. And the purpose of the committee is just help guide what Harambe can do with that designation. And it's it's meaningful stuff. It's things like it gives them ability to apply for funds or apply for grants to potentially get funds for example to plant things uh could be trees could be different things or to get rid of buckthorn you know there's a big debate over how that's going to happen there are natural ways to do it or you know versus just going in with like flamethrowers or whatever anyway but it's taking advantage I think of the beautiful um site you know that Harambe is fortunate enough to sit out and I think we have a there's at least one other in the district right designated for a school >> parkview center school >> park >> so I think this is following that experience but uh that was nice very entertaining we segueed from the forest school committee into the Harbe PTO meeting uh a lot of overlap and the parents who are involved in that some of the teachers were involved in that and again just a fabulous group of folks and I think really embraced the changes there that are happening. I know our own, you know, retiring board retagans helped lead uh the planning and the strategizing for uh Harambe 2.0 or whatever we might want to call it as I move ahead to take advantage of things like its natural setting. Uh the only other comments I'll have is um you know I too share the joy of having worked with both Frank and Kitty over all these years. Uh, I think Frank, you know, even in the old district center, uh, when I first got out, I think you you had already come back. You were like in your third year of your second stint, having gone to England for a while and come back again. >> And just always was impressed by and admired your forthrightness and uh, as several others had mentioned, your challenges and your skepticism about some of the standard ways that everybody did everything always and why do we still do it that way if it has no value? So, learned a lot and uh encouraged me to speak up myself and say what I want. And Katie, what can I say? I mean, such a model school board member. Can there can there be anyone more iconic than um and I may have mentioned this before? uh way way back 12 years ago, 14 years ago, I was a parent advocate at Crosswinds, part of the old East Metro Integration District, that I had been active in the the so-called site council, which is kind of their equivalent of a PTO, and had like written the bylaws and all that kind of stuff, was advocating for that and the other thing. And there's some issue or something, I can't remember what it was. And we're standing there in the in the in the the kind of foyer area of the school and Kenny said to me in like an off-hand way, you know, you should think about running for school board. You know, you ever thought about that? I don't I don't even know if you remember that. >> And that was that was the first person that put that that's where the idea came through in my head for me to say, "Hey, maybe I could explore this a little bit." So, so it's because of Kitty um encouraging me probably by what you know she saw that I was a little wonky, you know, and I think that's the first that's the key activity of a board member, right, is wonkiness. I don't we're too wonky. Pet say that in a complimentary way. So, thank you, Kitty, for putting that idea in my head because I wouldn't be sitting here today if if she had because she was the um Roseville board member who was the board member of the EMA district. And so, there are a lot of meetings with Kitty uh and others before her and after, of course, and the whole relationship. So, thank you both. And uh sorry, I won't be working with you directly anymore unless I get on the finance committee. >> That's all I have. Thank you, treasure clerk. >> Yeah. Um I unfortunately missed the last school board meeting. So I wanted to report out that prior to that I attended our first um special education advisory committee, our seek um committee and we set some goals and had some discussions about what we want to do as a committee and there were some new families there. So I would encourage any families that may be watching that have students with special ed. It's a great way to partner with our district leadership on special ed and things that we can do to improve um for our students who receive those special ed services. Um last week we had our um community education advisory um committee and Jenny Zenner provided the um overview of adult enrichment. So I'm always amazed at the wonderful things that we provide for our community. So um great job there. And we had our district finance committee meeting um where we heard an enrollment update. Um we heard the preliminary as Sherid prepared for the truth and taxation thing. We um talked about the audit um and tech safety um levy preliminary budget. So it was a very good meeting. So um looking forward to all the things there. And I also as um we end would like to thank my colleagues who are outgoing. When I first got on the board, I was the only new board member. Um, and director Shaw took time to meet with me to talk to me about Northeast Metro 916 and what it was because I didn't know what it was and and all that and the things to do. And I've enjoyed that. And Frank was so kind with his time to tell me about the other things to expect from the board, too. So, that was great. Um, and Kitty, I too would do. Kenny is Kitty has been a great mentor of mine. Um, anytime I have questions about things, Kitty is a easy person to go to and talk to. She's so knowledgeable um there. Um really I would what Mike said about a exemplary board member um really dedicated. Um one of the things I remember is no matter that election Kitty was running there was five of us running for the board but anybody knew Kitty always volunteers to meet with them and just to tell them about the board and what you can expect um no matter what. She was one of the other candidates running and she um took the time to do that and that's I think is great. So, you both will be missed. Um, but you won't be too far. So, >> thank you both. >> Thank you, Treasurer Clark. I'll actually go next because I want to save the final board reports for you two. Uh, my report for this evening is to publicly thank outgoing board members Kitty Gogggins and Dr. Frank Shaw. I've had the great honor of collaborating with both of them over my schoolboard career, and I've always appreciated your professionalism and leadership. They both have wanted nothing but the best for our students, staff, families, and community. I wish you both nothing but the best. Um, you will definitely be missed. I know you're not going to be going too far away, and I know you'll stay involved with Rose Larry Schools, but thank you for your tireless service, >> right? Oh, right. So I I this is not knowing the how to do this but I also want to echo that it is Kitty also got me like thinking about the school board. So I still remember our early meetings to kind of go okay I don't even know what this means. So so I really appreciate all your mentorship in those early days to kind of have me even consider what this look like and what does it mean? So thank you. Yeah, Frank, another math person. I think and I really echo what others say when you ask a question is pointed and it makes us think and really appreciate your thought partnership and one of the reason I I'm like I'm just well I don't know about that. I just thought I would see them at the this finance committee. Well, we'll see. Okay. But thank you for all your service to uh and continued service to Roseville neighbor schools. >> All right, >> Director Gar. >> Well, um this is my last update. It's going to feel pretty weird in January not getting ready for the uh you know, schoolboard meetings and all the other things that go with it. So, it's going to be a pretty big shift for me. Um, I was talking to our informal, uh, district historian, uh, Mary Zakaris, >> and I am tied for the longest serving board member with someone who served in the early 1950s. >> So, a long time ago, um, but his name was George Seabird. Never heard the name before, but um, it's really been an honor to serve. I um I just so impressed with the quality of our teachers, administrators, board members, and the collaboration and really being here for um what's best for the students and I really really appreciate that. I think this is a really spectacular district and I know you're going to achieve a lot of good things and I hope to be part in a smaller way in the future. Um but I um I know that we're I'm leaving it in good hands. I think the new board members will be wonderful additions um to the board. Um, I originally joined the board because our demographics in the community were changing and I wanted to be part of helping the district move forward um in in really um providing the quality of education that I received as a kid that my children received and that our current students are receiving that really um but being having that respectful welcoming environment inclusive feeling um the whole, you know, the relevance of education, all the different elements of our journey around equity, the equity vision was passed um literally a couple months before I joined the board and I got to go to all the listening sessions we had around the the district and um it was just it's been a wonderful journey. I think we've come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. And um I've really appreciated being part of that journey and I'm looking forward to what all you folks are going to do to take it even farther. >> Um it's going to be real different. >> It's been an honor and a pleasure. Well, I feel I feel like I should have gone before you, Kitty, because you're you're the one who has led the way. Uh I've been it's been always an honor to be serving with you. uh from the first time where I didn't know who you were to um you know each time I would come back on the board there would be Kitty and uh that's been great. So I can't come back if you're not going to be here evidently. I want to say something. People have talked about appreciating my questions and I want to say that I feel like my questions generally are borderline incoherent. and that you all have taken them >> and have used them as an opportunity to actually make a good question and then to and to move forward with it. And I and and many times I've gone away and I thought, well, not quite sure if that's what I was asking, but what a great answer and and sort of I guess I can sort of take credit for it, but so I'm impressed. generosity that that is all over this school district and that when when when a question is asked, it's it's listened to with with respect. It's never shrugged off and and and we go we go forward with it. And I feel this generosity radiating toward me when I'm in this room and uh when I was in the the board the boardroom before whenever I came into district center and uh I really appreciated it and have appreciated it all through all through my tenure and I do look forward to to still opening the door of the district center and sort of walking in there and seeing people I know. It's it's it's been absolutely wonderful. So, thank you. Thank you for the privilege of this last of this last year, too, especially. It's been great. >> All right, we will move on to the superintendent report. >> I know I don't really want the last words. I could have uh reorganized that. I have this warm feeling in my heart and a little alligator tear around it. That same emotion when any staff member retires and has given a lifelong dedication of service and how much you care is so evident in everything you do. Um for my superintendent report tonight, I'd also like to honor and recognize the tremendous leadership service of Dr. Frank Shaw and director Kitty Gogggins. Dr. Shaw has served on the board collectively for 13 years. He has diligently shared his educational expertise, steady guidance, and witty humor and wisdom throughout his time. Dr. Sha has served as a guidepost for this community when we worked through the extremely challenging dis decisions during our COVID pandemic. His ability to sort through and make sense of the research was second to none. Finally, Dr. Shaw continued to hold the district accountable for, in Dr. Titan's words, keeping the main thing the main thing, and that is student achievement. Director Gogggins has served an incredibly committed served as an incredibly committed board member for 20 years. She has had an immense impact on the role that our school district plays within the broader community. Director Gogggins helped to formally usher in the district equity vision as well as the transition of Rome Elementary into Roseville area schools from the former East Metro Integration District. Kitty has also provided key leadership in the areas of research and innovation, strategic planning, and much much more. Professionally, I'd like to thank Dr. Shaw and Director Gogggins for your generous leadership service. You've made such profoundly positive impacts, both looking back and most importantly looking forward in Roseville Area Schools. Personally, I'd like to thank you each for your friendship and for your ongoing mentorship of me. I look forward to continuing to get to work with you both as you know that I will be calling. Congratulations and I can't wait to visit our schools and reflect upon your service as I pass by your new street signs hallway. Just a nod to our use of street data data. >> Please join me in one more round of applause. >> Thank you. >> All right. If there's no further business uh before the board, we stand adjourned. Good evening everyone.