Board approves employee‑handbook amendments to implement Minnesota Paid Family Leave; six policies presented for first reading

The Monticello Public School District board approved two employee‑handbook amendments Monday that implement the Minnesota Paid Family Leave Act (effective Jan. 1) and clarify procedures for employees who expect to be absent more than two consecutive days.

Rob Daneker, director of human resources, said the amendments respond to the new state law and the Minnesota School Boards Association guidance. "We have the Minnesota Paid Family Leave Act coming on as of January 1," Daneker said, and recommended formal handbook language and a minor adjustment to absence reporting.

The motion to adopt the handbook amendments was moved and seconded during the meeting and passed unanimously (recorded as 4–0). The minutes record the motion and the yes votes but the seconder's name appears inconsistently in meeting notes; the record shows the motion was properly seconded and approved.

At the same meeting the board completed first readings of six policies as part of its review cycle: 606.5 (selection and reconsideration of instructional materials), 611 (homeschooling), 901 (community education), 612.1 (parent and family engagement for Title I), 902 (use of facilities and equipment), and 903 (visitors to district buildings). Board members were informed that these policies will return for additional consideration and subsequent board action.

Votes at a glance: - Approval of tentative agenda: moved by Melissa Curtis; second recorded; vote recorded as 4–0. - Consent agenda: approved, recorded as 4–0. - Acceptance of donations (Cargill $5,000 to Rally to Read; Cheryl Cameron/Cammer $1,000 to district robotics): motion approved, recorded as 4–0. - Employee handbook amendments (Paid Family Leave implementation; absence procedure clarification): approved, recorded as 4–0.

Ending: The board adjourned at 7:02 p.m.; next meetings are Dec. 15 (levy approval) and Jan. 5 (organizational/regular meeting).