December 10, 2025 at 7:00 PM - Regular Meeting

Discussion:  The monthly financial report was reviewed, including updates on fund balances, upcoming payments, and anticipated curriculum purchases. Tax collections are currently lower than the prior year, and no state aid is received in November. Routine bills were also presented for approval, including legal fees, ESU services, and necessary maintenance expenses.

Discussion:  There was none.

Discussion:  The district shared updates on ongoing student and staff activities, including community engagement efforts, seasonal events, and winter benchmark assessments across grade levels. Assessment data is being used to guide instructional decision-making, adjust pacing, support targeted interventions, and communicate progress with students and families. Upcoming holiday concerts, mentoring activities, and reading initiatives were noted, along with continued work on essential standards and curriculum review in both elementary and secondary classrooms. Elementary programming remains focused on character education, early childhood registration planning, and targeted intervention time. At the secondary level, staff are supporting students as the semester concludes, maintaining communication with families, and hosting various academic and extracurricular events, all while continuing to strengthen school culture and student outcomes. Overall, both buildings report positive engagement, ongoing reflection, and a continued focus on improvement across instructional and extracurricular areas.

Discussion:  The district received an enrollment update noting six new students and no withdrawals, with current enrollment at 454 and an average daily attendance of 94%. Information was shared regarding upcoming board election filing dates, with incumbent filings due February 15 and non-incumbent filings due March 1; the seats held by Paul, Kristina, and Ryan are up for election. A brief update on negotiations was also provided, noting that discussions continue to progress in a routine and collaborative manner.

Discussion:  The board reviewed the draft calendar for the upcoming school year, noting a few minor adjustments from the current year.

Discussion:  Dr. Lefdal noted that the annual report will be reviewed during the AQuESTT update and will be posted on the district website.

Discussion:  Homer Community Schools received an overall Good rating in this year’s AQuESTT classification. Building-level ratings include Good for the Elementary School, Great for the Middle School, and Good for the High School. Strengths noted across the district include continued improvement in chronic absenteeism, positive graduation outcomes, and strong behavioral data. The report also identifies areas for continued attention, including rising non-proficiency rates in ELA and Math, academic growth below state averages, subgroup performance leading to TSI/ATSI designations, and the need for ongoing curriculum and assessment alignment. The district is actively addressing these priorities through professional development, instructional coaching, attendance initiatives, targeted support plans, and continued curriculum review. 

Discussion:  Surveys were distributed to 6th-grade students, parents, and middle school staff. The data collected was positive overall, with a few areas identified for continued improvement. Dr. Lefdal and Mr. Brand will continue to refine the 6-8 model as it evolves.

Discussion:  Dr. Lefdal reported that the online policy updates have been completed and provided an overview of the process, the revisions made, and the features of the new online system now in place.

Discussion:  A brief discussion was held regarding the trade-in of the Traverse and the transfer of funds from the General Fund to the Depreciation Fund.

Discussion: 

There were no findings of fraud or suspected fraud, no known instances of non-compliance, and no violations of budget ordinances, laws, or regulations related to adoption, approval, or amendments. Funds were properly classified, and interfund activity was appropriately recorded and reported. Attendance procedures, including census collection and student management system practices, were found to be in compliance. Overall, the district received a positive report. Audit Findings: Segregation of duties, Financial statement preparation and review, and Need to establish an employee benefit fund

Discussion:  The January meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 14th, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.