The Lakota Local Board of Education on Sept. 2 discussed whether to continue holding regular board meetings on the auditorium stage or move to the East Freshman innovation hub.

Board members and staff cited three factors for reconsideration: audience engagement and intimacy, stage lighting and presentation aesthetics, and the technology and custodial lift required for each location. Staff reported that several stage lights were not functioning and that the auditorium's stage can feel cavernous and make audience members less visible to trustees. The innovation hub was described as more intimate, with two exits for safety, but staff said the hub is also used regularly for other activities and would require assessment of whether existing audio/video investments could be transferred there.

Board members asked staff to explore the cost and technical feasibility of using the hub, including the work needed to transfer or duplicate audio/video equipment, lighting repairs and potential impacts on custodial workload from more frequent setup and teardown. Staff noted the stage itself may need work beyond paint and that they would consult the technology team and facilities staff (including the district's custodian/operations leads) before proposing changes.

No formal action was taken; the board asked staff to return with data on technology needs, estimated costs and operational impacts so the trustees can decide whether to keep the current location or change it in the future.