Eden Valley‑Watkins board adopts revised FY2025 budget, directs administration to recommend program and staff reductions

The Eden Valley‑Watkins School Board adopted a revised FY2025 budget and voted to direct district administration to prepare recommendations for reductions in programs and positions during its March 12, 2025 meeting at the district office. Business Manager Alisa Woolcott presented the revised FY2025 budget; Member Ben Stommes moved approval and Member Jen Evens seconded. The motion carried unanimously.

Superintendent Mark Messman also recommended a resolution authorizing administration to explore programming and position changes, including consideration for reduction or discontinuance. Member Ann Lemke introduced a related Resolution Directing the Administration to make Recommendations for Reductions in Programs and Positions; the motion was seconded by Member Ben Stommes and approved by those present (Jay Brovold, Charli Magedanz, Jen Evens, Ben Stommes, Nate Haag, and Ann Lemke). Member Christina DeRose was recorded absent. The minutes do not record specific program or position recommendations; the action directs staff to study options and return recommendations to the board.

Board materials and the minutes list district fund figures reported at the meeting (General Education Fund reported as $388,273.30 and a total of $420,030.80). Superintendent Messman noted that 2025–26 budget work will begin in May and be presented in June. The resolution for reductions is a directive to administration to develop options and recommendations, not an immediate reduction; any specific personnel or program actions would need subsequent board action.

Next steps recorded in the minutes include administration preparing recommendations and a future agenda item listed as a “resolution proposing non‑renewal of contracts.” The board adjourned at 8:06 p.m.