Lakeville previewed an $11,257 SHIP grant and JPA with Dakota County for trauma-informed training

District staff told the board they were approved for an $11,257 SHIP grant administered through Dakota County to support staff professional development in trauma-informed responsiveness and restorative practices. Nicole Adams, identified as the director of schools in continuous improvement, said the district received notification roughly two weeks prior to the working session and is still defining specifics based on training costs and staff targets.

Adams described the grant as intended for staff development rather than therapeutic services. She said possible trainees include school success liaisons, counselors and administration depending on costs and availability: "It's all gonna depend on, the cost of training that we find and how much, we can afford to do with that amount." She also told the board the work funded by the SHIP grant must be complete by Oct. 31, 2025, and that follow-up reporting to the state will be required.

Board members pressed on whether parents would be notified and whether the training would identify or treat students. Adams replied the funding supports staff skill-building (responses and accommodations that teachers and counselors can use) rather than direct treatment, and the district will provide the board with the proposed plan once costs and vendors are identified. The next step is for the board to approve a joint powers agreement that would allow Dakota County to transfer funds to the district; Adams said the district is approved and requested board permission to enter the contract.