Mabel-Canton Superintendent Gary Kuphal proudly announced at the April 15 school board meeting that the school’s bond referendum passed by a resounding 2-to-1 margin.
Board members present at the meeting included Dustin Tollefsrud, Diane Wilder, Mark Weidemann, Amber Tripp, and Jason Marquardt (via phone) and Livingood (via phone). Chairman Miller called the meeting to order at 6 p.m. followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. Minutes from the two March 18 meetings were approved as presented.
Kupal extended his heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in the referendum process and shared his experience attending various community meetings to explain the projects that would be funded. He highlighted one especially enjoyable visit to Senior Dining in Mabel.
“There were about 20 people there and that was the most fun group,” Kuphal said. “I was there for an hour and 20 minutes. We had so much fun talking, laughing, joking. They even invited me to come to a meal and stay to play cards. They were all so positive and appreciative of me taking time to explain the referendum.”
Kuphal announced that bid requests will go this fall, with primary construction planned to begin in the summer of 2026. However, depending on spring weather conditions, some work could start earlier.
The agenda was approved with one revision. Because many visitors were present regarding he girls basketball program, Chairman Chris Miller explained that four members of the public who had signed up to speak would share their opinions during the board’s discussion on the topic.
Athletic Director Lonnie Morken presented the school’s recommendation to the board. The recommendation is to continue the cooperative agreement with Spring Grove for one more year. Community members and teachers Adam Wilder, Blaine Storlie, Heather Wilder and Nicky Eiken all spoke in support of extending the agreement, agreeing that one more year would help build a stronger program foundation and build confidence in Mabel’s players.
The board renewed its cooperative sports agreements with Spring Grove (girls basketball), Fillmore Central (wrestling), and Lanesboro (track and boys golf).
The consent agenda unanimously approved in one motion included the 2024-25 budget, claims report, plus the resignation of Special Education teacher Katie Farnen, and the hiring of Ben Mohs as assistant varsity football coach.
Board members extended their thanks to Farnen for her service to the district.
PreK-12 Principal Michelle Weidemann shared that the seniors have arrived in Washington, D.C., emphasizing that “no news is good news.” She also reported that all seniors are on track to graduate. Board members Weidemann and Tollefsrud volunteered to hand out diplomas at graduation. Staff is working on next year’s schedule.
Kuphal said that teacher negotiations have begun and have had one meeting. Next Wednesday they will have the teachers’ proposal.
The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) “planned” food audit took place on April 15 and the initial feedback is positive. The audit is required every five years. Kuphal emphasized that there are a possible 600 citations; the school received only three during the last audit five years ago, including one noting cans of fruit were not stored six inches above the floor. He said that there have not been any schools that have received zero citations.
Kuphal informed the board that the fire marshal will be on site the week of April 21 to conduct an inspection. He noted that the school’s elevator will not pass inspection because of new legislation. The two parts required to fix the elevator will cost $100,000 and must be fixed within 3–5 years.
The board took the following actions:
- Approved by roll call, canvassing the results of the special election;
- Approved .4 FTE Literacy Coach/Instructional Coach position;
- Approved by roll call, a resolution to discontinue and reduce educational program and positions.
The meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m.
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