Development News for Winona, Minnesota

Board Discusses Music and Science Staffing Amidst HR Agenda Review

During the discussion of the human resources agenda, a board member questioned the hiring of a band teacher for middle and senior high school, citing rumors about changes to music specialists. The administration clarified that the position replaces a part-time band director who is moving to a full-time dean role, and also fills fractional FTE positions for music lessons that were previously non-renewed. It was confirmed that no K-12 music staff have been impacted and all current music staff are scheduled to return. Another board member raised concerns about three science teaching positions at the senior high, which the administration explained were due to one transfer and two resignations, filling open positions one-for-one. The board proceeded to approve the consent agenda, which included HR items, after this discussion.

Superintendent Contract Approved; Over $100K in Donations Received

The board approved an agreement for the Superintendent's contract, which is a three-year agreement with a total cost of over $130,000, representing a 20.59% increase over three years. The first year's impact on fund balance is projected at 0.08%. Analysis of the package was done in context with other 'Big Nine' and regional compensation packages, indicating the Superintendent's current compensation is on the lower end. The goal is to bring the compensation into market compliance. The board also approved donations received in the previous month, totaling over $100,000 from various organizations and individuals for specific programs and field trips.

Superintendent Focus Areas: Levy Renewal, Geothermal Credits, and CTE Expansion Updates

The Superintendent presented updates on three focus areas. First, efforts to renew the capital project levy are ongoing, with a resolution for the November 3rd election date and ballot language approved. A timeline of key activities and initial information sessions with district staff are underway. Second, the district secured a direct pay credit on geothermal projects, and ongoing work involves developing scenarios for applying these funds to capital and facility needs, with future planning anticipated for summer. A celebration with Senator Tina Smith highlighted these projects and the tax credit. Third, support for the expansion of career and technical education (CTE) programs continues. The 'Foundation for WAPS' event supported the 'Fortune of Future' campaign, with a public announcement expected regarding fundraising totals. Continued partnership building for CTE investment is anticipated. The board also discussed the AP Computer Science course grant and the pay equity item for compliance.

Bus Transportation Zone Impact Updated; 1.5-Mile Radius Recommended

The board received an update on bus transportation zoning, including data on students residing within one and 1.5 miles of schools. A new column in the updated report shows that 117 students live between one and 1.5 miles and currently have a bus route assigned. The district reached out to non-public and charter schools, receiving one response that highlighted concerns about Highway 61 being a hazard and noted a significant number of impacted students at their school. The superintendent recommended moving to a 1.5-mile radius for busing, aligning with policy language, though current practice has been a one-mile radius. This change is projected to reduce bus routes by two to four, saving approximately $74,000 per route per year. Some board members questioned the necessity of board involvement, preferring administrative detail management, while others noted the public-facing nature of the issue and its impact on multiple community schools.