Board summarizes closed-session evaluation of Superintendent Anderson; six growth areas listed

The St. Francis Area Schools School Board provided a public summary on Sept. 8 of Superintendent Anderson’s 2024–25 evaluation, a requirement the board said was set by state statute after a closed session. The superintendent was not present at the meeting.

A board member said the closed session occurred Aug. 25 and that the full evaluation is in the board packet. The board summarized areas evaluated using Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) suggested standards: vision and leadership; policy governance; community engagement; organizational management; curriculum, instruction and student achievement; professional and ethical leadership; and board–superintendent relations.

Board members listed strengths that included guiding a districtwide assessment of facilities, technology and transportation; maintaining professionalism when board direction differed from his recommendations; building collaborative relationships with other local governing bodies; leading budget-saving initiatives; starting standard operating procedures across the district; and improving the curriculum purchasing process with greater stakeholder input.

The board identified six growth areas that align with goals in the packet: strengthening long-term planning and district stability in partnership with the board; sharpening alignment on assessment practices and use of data to drive student growth; and consistent accountability for outcomes. The presenters said the superintendent’s overall performance was “strong” and positioned the district for continued growth, while noting continued work on the listed goals this school year.

Board members said they would reserve comments for the superintendent’s next regular meeting when he is present.