Jan Mitchell, LWV Observer
Absent: Paul Hager
State Legislators Kevin Dahle and David Bly presented a report on the education-related issues that were considered this past session, and acknowledged that school funding continues to be inadequate and unpredictable for most districts. They intend to improve the state support of education in the next session. Diane Cirksena noted that urban and rural funding is unfair to districts like Northfield. Mike Bertelson urged the legislature to be sure to factor inflation when they allocate funds, and to report their figures in terms of annual, not biannual, numbers. Wendy Smith reminded the legislators that when all-day kindergarten is considered, there are significant demands on facilities that need to be factored in.
Tom Graupman, Activities Director, presented a report about the programs, both academic and athletic, in which Middle School and High School students participate. The level of participation is very high, placing Northfield among the top 10 of state public schools. In fact, 73.5% of all students take part in some activity, and expenses claim 3.3% of the district budget. Gender balance is very good. Our activity fees are just below average for the Missota Conference. Graupman noted that the Hasse family has donated $2000 per year for many years to fund the R.A.L.I.E. student leadership program, which works to prevent chemical use and to promote school spirit. The district is very grateful for this support, given in memory of their daughter. Wendy Smith observed that these activities are very commendable, and praised Graupman’s report. She asked if the intermural program is going well, and he answered that there is a lot of interest in ultimate Frisbee, but that it is hard to get participants for many other sports. Park & Rec is cooperative in the intermural efforts. Kari Nelson was also pleased with the report, and asked if there is a systematic way to share best practices among the various programs. Graupman responded that there are surveys for responses from students and parents, which he shares with coaches and advisors, without sharing names of respondents.
The routine business included approval of the contract for dairy products, and we use only milk free of bovine growth hormone.
A generous bequest from the estate of Myrtle A. Houston has provided over $41,000 for environmental education support in the district. This was acknowledged with many thanks.
Incumbents Diane Cirksena and Katy Hargis have filed for reelection, and there are several other candidates for the 4 openings on the Board in the November election.
