The Stillwater School Board reviewed preliminary budget projections and addressed significant transportation cost increases during its June 3 meeting, with officials reporting expenditures have risen approximately $5 million over four years.

Superintendent Dr. Funk highlighted the financial impact of transportation costs, noting the district now pays nearly $5 million more annually than four years ago. The increase stems from a 2022 vendor change to Schmidies Bus Company after the district received no bids during a request for proposals process. The current six-year contract includes consumer price index adjustments that have contributed to rising costs.

The board received updates on the QC Comp alternative teacher professional pay system, which served 428 educators this year through coaching cycles and learning labs. Staff members Deb Van Cly and Stephen Gordy presented new evaluation rubrics that will replace the 11-year-old system, reducing indicators from 30 to 17 for classroom educators.

Business Manager Marie presented preliminary budget figures showing projected general fund expenditures of approximately $65 million, with an unassigned fund balance projected at 1.2 percent. The district plans to utilize $1.07 million from operating capital fund balance for literacy curriculum implementation.

The board also approved a $60,754 contribution to Northeast Metro 916's long-term facility maintenance plan and reviewed the district's own 10-year facilities plan totaling $9.36 million for fiscal year 2027 projects.