Fourth quarter has full plate of events

The March School Board meeting began as usual with the call to order, Pledge of Allegiance, and visitors are welcomed.
The positive comments by the school board members mentioned February's "I Love to Read Month", thanks to Les Engeler and crew for doing a great job with snow removal, congratulations to the wrestlers, and a shout-out to all students involved in athletics and activities for being so flexible during the winter's season.
The revised budget was reviewed and, though COVID has had many negative effects on education, it has not hurt the budget due to federal monies being given to districts. This summer curriculum will need to be purchased for music, arts, PE, and science.
The enrollment report shows that there has been a slight decline in enrollment since the beginning of the year. The budget was planned with a 517-student enrollment; today the number is actually 514.
Principal Jeremy Frie's report reminded the board members there are only 44 days of school left. Coming during the fourth quarter will be prom, winter playoffs, concerts, robotics, spring sports, and a graduation ceremony. Registration for 2021-2022 will take place soon. Kudos to the Minneota athletics and fans for following the mask mandate better than most districts.
In the elementary report, Principal Jennifer Mahan-Deitte told the board that the elementary students exceeded their goal raising Pennies for Patients, The MCAs will begin in April and rewards for those tests will take place next fall. The reading and math corps programs will continue next year.
Superintendent Dan Deitte mentioned in his report that the district needs to think about possibly having a referendum. There is declining enrollment, an increase in technology costs, and other expenses which will need to be paid. When there is a referendum there is a possibility of more than one question on the ballot. The Board will have a work session on Thursday, March 18 to discuss this further.
The new business considered approving the addition of Samantha Jones as a paraprofessional, Angela Lauer (counselor) will work eight additional days this summer, and Ruth Bot will be resigning from her part-time position.
Regarding business affairs, there was approval for five digital learning days for 2021-2022. Policy 522 regarding sexual harassment has been updated, the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 calendars were approved, and the achievement and integration program was also approved.
The next meeting will be April 20, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. in the band room.