The South Washington County Schools Board unanimously approved its 2025-26 budget and renewed membership in the Minnesota State High School League during a brief business meeting Thursday evening at the District Service Center in Cottage Grove.

The board approved the preliminary budget for the upcoming school year, which includes significant construction funding from the $400 million bond referendum approved by voters. Director of Business Services Chris Blackburn noted that any impacts from the recent legislative special session will be incorporated into a revised budget in March 2026. Board members discussed potential cost increases from tariffs or labor expenses, with Blackburn explaining that the district is limited to the approved bonded authority and would need to reduce project scope if costs exceed projections.

The board also approved continued membership in the Minnesota State High School League for the 2025-26 school year. Assistant Superintendent Christine Schaefer presented the resolution, which delegates control of league-sponsored athletic and fine arts activities to the state organization and commits the district to adopting league rules and regulations.

Additionally, the board certified an updated population census showing district growth from 113,887 residents in 2022 to 118,152 in 2024. Director of Community Education Jake Winchell explained the population increase will boost revenue for community education programs, which receive funding based on district population.

Superintendent Julie Nielsen reported on ongoing construction progress at multiple school sites, including work at Crestview Elementary, Park High School, Eastridge Elementary, Oakland Middle School and Woodbury Middle School. The board also approved five routine policy updates with minimal changes.