Cloquet Public Schools is making significant strides as the new school year approaches, with key updates on negotiations and enrollment. During the recent school board meeting on August 25, 2025, Superintendent Dr. Carey announced the conclusion of negotiations with the principal's unit, pending their approval of a tentative agreement. This development is expected to be presented to the board in the upcoming meeting, marking a step forward in contract settlements.

Additionally, the district is preparing for its first negotiation session with the non-certified administrative support association, scheduled for September 5. This session is crucial as it represents the last official bargaining unit to finalize contracts for the current year, allowing the district to focus on future negotiations with other units in the spring.

As the district gears up for the return of students next Wednesday, enrollment figures are a pressing topic. The district is currently waitlisting students in kindergarten, first, second, and fourth through sixth grades due to nearing maximum class sizes. This proactive measure ensures that the district maintains its approved class size ranges and avoids disruptions to the master schedule. While there are still a few spots available in third grade, the district is closely monitoring enrollment numbers and will reassess the situation shortly after school begins.

The board plans to discuss the possibility of closing open enrollment for the year during their second meeting in September, depending on the actual student counts. This decision will be informed by the number of students who show up in the first weeks of school, as some families may relocate without notifying the district.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the district's commitment to effective management of resources and student enrollment, ensuring a smooth transition into the new academic year. As the school community prepares for the influx of students, these decisions will play a vital role in shaping the educational environment for the upcoming year.