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Bemidji school board unanimously approves 2025–26 goals, teacher rehires and multiple policy updates
Summary
At its Aug. 17 meeting the Bemidji Public School District Board of Education unanimously approved rehiring two teachers, adopted district goals for 2025–26 and approved first readings or updates to several district policies to reflect state statute changes.
The Bemidji Public School District Board of Education voted unanimously Aug. 17 to rehire two previously released teachers, finalize district goals for 2025–26 and approve several policy updates tied to recent state statutory changes.
Board members approved a resolution to rehire Madison Lampton and Jackson Lindsay. The resolution was adopted by roll call; members Frenzel, Akas, Manakee, Haugen, Longboatner and Wall each voted "yes." The board then approved the district’s three proposed goals for the 2025–26 cycle: a 2% increase target for math and reading MCA performance, an added student‑growth goal measured against FastBridge baseline assessments, and a financial goal to balance the fiscal-year‑2027 budget. The motion to adopt the goals carried unanimously on voice vote.
Administrators presented and the board approved first readings or updates to a bundle of district policies that reflect changes in state law. Key points include:
- Student transportation safety: The policy was updated to reflect the state requirement for active transportation safety training (pedestrian safety and crossing) in kindergarten through third grade and to remove previously stated deadlines so the policy language aligns with the statute. The board approved the change unanimously.
- Student medication and telehealth: The board approved policy updates adopting MSBA-recommended language, including a good-faith clause for administration of epinephrine (for example, EpiPen use) so staff attempting to render aid in good faith are protected by the statutory provision.
- Mandated reporting of child neglect or physical abuse: Policy references were updated to match changed statutory citations; the board approved the update unanimously.
- Drug‑free workplace / drug‑free school: The policy was revised in response to statute language that limits disciplinary penalties for people enrolled in tribal medical cannabis programs except under specified circumstances. The board approved the update unanimously.
- School weapons policy: The district clarified the definition of a dangerous weapon (including firearms) and included a requirement to electronically file an after-action review report with the state for active-shooter incidents or threats, consistent with state rules; the board approved the update unanimously.
- School meals: The board approved policy language clarifying that students eligible for free or reduced-price meals must be served regardless of meal debt and that students may purchase a second breakfast or lunch, reflecting recent state-level changes.
- Protection and privacy of pupil records: The board approved an addition that allows sharing student contact and directory information for students served in special education with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development for post-secondary planning and coordination of services.
All policy motions were carried by voice vote with no recorded opposition. The board adjourned after confirming upcoming dates including the first day of school on Sept. 2 and the next school board meeting on Sept. 15.
