The Spring Grove School Board approved setting the 2024 Payable 2025 Property Tax Levy Certification at the maximum level, on a motion by Board Member Rohland and seconded by Boardmember Olson at its board meeting on September 15.
The Truth and Taxation hearing traditionally takes place in December prior to the regular school board meeting. Approving the maximum level allows for any changes before the proposed levy is submitted to the county auditor and then to the state.
The regularly scheduled meeting of the Spring Grove School board was called to order at 7:02 p.m.
Board members present included Chair Stephanie Jaster, Rhan Flatin, Kelly Rohland, Lisa Myhre, Myriah Klug, and Ashley Olson. Also present were Superintendent Gina Morken, K-12 Principal Matt Rosaaen, district accountant Tanya Elton, head of Maintenance, Brent Messner and administrative assistant, Rachel Bjerke.
On a motion by Flatin, seconded by Board Member Klug, the board unanimously approved the consent agenda. This included the meeting agenda, minutes from the August 18 board meeting, treasurer’s report and payment of bills. Other items on the consent agenda included the approval of employment contracts with Joe Clauson (custodian), Jennifer Solberg (shared Drama Club advisor and Spring Musical director), Melissa Bratland (shared Drama Club advisor), Rachel Storlie (Fall Play director), and Jana Schroeder (Student Council advisor). The board also accepted the resignation of Megan Miller (teacher, Drama Club advisor, and Theater director).
In his report, Principal Matt Rosaaen shared several upcoming student activities:
- September 18: ninth and tenth graders will attend CTE Day in Caledonia
- September 22-24: seventh grade field trip to Eagle Bluff
- September 23: sixth grade Environmental Day at Winnebago Springs
- October 1: late start for students at 10:25 a.m.
- October 3: homecoming
- October 7: picture retake day
- October 16 and 17: No school
Superintendent Morken reported that the school kitchen passed its health inspection on Tuesday and began serving students on Wednesday. The commons and upper-level cafeteria are expected to be completed by Monday. Of the original 411 punch-list items, only 150 items remain as of September 3. Work is being done before and after school hours to meet deadlines.
Morken also noted that the 2026-27 school year will begin after Labor Day (September 8) to accommodate next summer’s construction projects. The board was thanked for its service in recognition of School Board Appreciation Month, and a Spanish trip was briefly mentioned.
The board agreed to table a decision on the proposals for Commission Services until the October board meeting. Superintendent Morken explained that the engineering firm that is contracted for Commission Services is responsible for reviewing the work completed by ISG to ensure it aligns with what was submitted to the State of Minnesota and that all aspects of the building project have been properly fulfilled. “It is an engineering check,” said Morken.
Flatin made a motion to waive 2% of the school’s basic revenue for staff development. The motion was seconded by Klug and approved by roll call vote following a brief discussion. It was noted that waiving the 2% allocation provides greater budget flexibility, allowing the district to use alternative funding sources, such as grants, to support staff training.
Motioned by Klug to adjourn the meeting at 7:41 p.m., and seconded by Rohland, the meeting was adjourned.
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