The GFW School Board held a regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. A summary of the meeting is below.
Watch the meeting on YouTube:
Truth in Taxation Hearing
Dr. Smith shared the annual required Truth in Taxation hearing presentation which gives an overview of budgets, tax levies, and the recommendation to approve the proposed Pay 25 levy amount for the district. You can view the full slide deck on the district website.
There were no public comments on the presentation.
Audit Presentation
Layne Kockelman, CPA from Abdo shared a presentation to the board on the financial audit for 2023-2024. The presentation included information on general fund totals, budgets, revenues and expenditures, and average daily membership. The board will approve the audit in January after further review.
World’s Best Workforce and Achievement and Integration Report
Dr. Smith shared the annually required progress report on the district’s work around World’s Best Workforce as well as updates on the Achievement and Integration work that aims to provide greater opportunities for success to all students. The district is on track to reach most of the goals as part of the WBWF plan with an additional goal being in progress with more work yet to be completed. Achievement and Integration goals are also in progress with most being measured in the spring of 2026.
Superintendent’s Report
Dr. Smith shared updates on enrollment and the superintendent search which has been launched. The community is encouraged to participate in a survey to provide input as to what they would like to see in the next superintendent. The posting closes on Jan. 10, 2025 with interviews planned to begin the last week in January.
The construction project is continuing after a few delays with windy conditions. Concrete is being poured for floors with decking and roofing crews insulating the Elementary wing. Precast panels continue to be installed and trusses are being installed where possible.
Surveys remain open for Gibbon and Winthrop residents to collect input on what the community would like to see happen with the current facilities once the district moves into the new building.
School Reports
Principal Jacobson shared updates from the middle school and high school where the student council is taking charge with lots of seasonal festivities and events. The college and career readiness class took a trip to the MN Zoo where they explored careers in zoos and animal care with a variety of hands-on activities. FFA had participants in state level leadership activities and other competitions and will be wrapping up their fruit sale with more than $30,000 sold.
Students also visited Schweiss Doors in Hector and learned about production, business management, and more. The choir and band concerts had great attendance with a lot of festive songs and student talents on display. Students are able to participate in both choir and band. The school continues to utilize PBIS to foster positive student behavior, student achievement, and building a sense of community in the school. This is done through reward days, student of the month recognitions, and more.
The Elementary school report was submitted to the board via the packet.
School Board Reports
Board members shared brief updates from committees.
Consent Agenda, Resolutions and Action Items
The board approved the consent agenda.
The board approved the contract with SCSC for superintendent search services.
The board approved the 2025 levy.
The board approved policy revisions from legislative changes.
The board approved the acceptance of donations.
Additional Items
Marking his final meeting on the board, Chair Merkel shared that he is proud of his time on the board. Thanks to Chair Merkel for his years of service to the GFW community!