At the February 18 Lanesboro School Board meeting, Superintendent Matt Schultz updated the board members of the district’s current enrollment numbers. When he started working at the district in 2016, the school had 333 students. With more students being added on a regular basis during this school year, he anticipates that the 2021-2022 will open with over 400 total students from grades kindergarten through 12. Two years ago, it was predicted that there would be 20 kindergartners next year, but the current projection is approximately 30. In addition to a growing student population, the daycare and preschool numbers have also increased since September 2020.
Superintendent Schultz noted that the facilities project is in its final stages. The new commons area is nearly complete and the greenhouse is almost up and running. The chemistry lab opened for students on February 15 and the kitchen was ready to use on February 22. The solar panels are scheduled to be installed soon, as are the PA system and clocks.
Board member Sarah Peterson reported that the Lanesboro EDA is looking for a high school student interested in serving on its board.
Congratulations were extended to Lanesboro High School student Jared Peterson for earning a spot as a National Merit Scholarship finalist. Doing so could potentially qualify him for a number of college scholarships.
Superintendent Schultz noted that the winter sport season is over halfway done and the spring sports will begin in the last week of March.
Principal James Semmen is working on the school calendar for the 2021-2022 school year and will have it ready for the board to review at their March meeting. Openings for positions in title services and the special education department are still available and the job listings will be posted again as no applications have been received yet. Anyone interested in driving a school bus is asked to contact the school as, there is a need for drivers.
Ryan Himle was hired as a new custodian. A resignation from daycare employee Marilyn Torgerud was approved.
The council approved a motion to being negotiations with the Lanesboro Education Association. A resolution to accept $5,050 in scholarship donations was also approved.
The next Lanesboro School Board meeting will be held on March 18 at 7 p.m.