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Hopkins board names official newspaper, retains legal firm and approves 2% board compensation increase
Summary
During its organizational meeting the Hopkins board designated the Sun Sailor/Sunpost as the official district newspaper, reappointed Ratwik, Roszak & Maloney as outside legal counsel, and after debate approved a 2% increase in board stipends; memberships in AMSD and MSBA were also authorized.
At its Aug. 19 organizational meeting, the Hopkins Public School Board approved routine governance items and several staffing/compensation decisions.
The board designated Sun Sailor/Sunpost publications as the district’s official newspaper for the 2025–26 school year. Director Jolene Goldotti noted the paper’s rate schedule, and board members requested confirmation that Hopkins content appears in the appropriate local editions for residents who live in Minnetonka and other municipalities served by the district.
The board also reappointed outside legal counsel Ratwick, Roszak & Maloney, citing the firm’s district experience and special-education expertise. Assistant Superintendent Lightfoot and special-education leaders described the firm’s role in advising on IDEA/504 matters and other district legal needs.
On compensation, the board debated a proposed 2% increase in the annual board stipend. Supporters framed the raise as an equity measure to broaden participation in board service and to offset inflation since 2021; opponents cited current budget constraints. The board voted to approve the 2% increase (motion passed; one recorded dissent). The board also continued term life insurance for members at $50,000 each.
Finally, the board authorized continued memberships in the Association of Metropolitan School Districts (AMSD) and the Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA), noting these groups’ value for policy support and model documents.
Next steps: administration will confirm newspaper distribution details with the publisher, and the district retains discretion to secure additional outside counsel when specialized expertise is required.
