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LANCASTER SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

LANCASTER SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

The Lancaster School Board met in regular session on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 8:00 p.m. in the technology room. The following members were present: James Diamond, Jason Langerud, Lacey Lupien, Matt Nordin, Justin Peterson, and Jim Scalese. Also present were Superintendent Nicole Thompson, Assistant Principal Drew Kjono, Teacher Rep. Jaime Peterson, Kittson County Enterprise reporter Anna Jauhola, and Mendy Coffield.
Chairperson Diamond called the meeting to order and took roll call.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those in attendance. The agenda was presented.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Scalese, the agenda was approved as presented.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Langerud, the consent agenda was approved as presented. Items included:
• The minutes of the September 21, 2022, regular meeting was approved.
• Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs) in the amount of $120,366.81.
• Payroll EFTs in the amount of $114,047.70.
• Credit Card EFTs in the amount of $14,694.39.
• Monthly bills for the regular and the activity account in the amount of $149,432.32.
Check numbers 42012-42076.
• The Budget Comparison and Treasurer’s reports were reviewed.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Peterson and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, accepts the 2021/22 Audit Report as prepared by Brady Martz.
On a motion by Langerud, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, accepts the bids for snow removal of the parking lots and the van and bus garage areas from Donald Burton at $100.00 per hour. Burton was the only bid received.
The following resolution was moved by: Lupien and seconded by: Langerud:
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATIONS
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute 123B.02, Subd. 6 provides: “The board may receive, for the benefit of the district, bequests, donations, or gifts for any proper purpose and apply the same to the purpose designated. In that behalf, the board may act as trustee of any trust created for the benefit of the district, or for the benefit of the district, or for the benefit of pupils thereof, including trusts created to provide pupils of the district with advanced education after completion of high school, in the advancement of education.”; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 465.03 provides: “Any city, county, school district or town may accept a grant or devise of real or personal property to maintain such property for the benefit of its citizens in accordance with the terms prescribed by the donor. Nothing herein shall authorize such acceptance or use for religious or sectarian purposes. Every such acceptance shall be by resolution of the governing body adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members, expressing such terms in full.”; and
WHEREAS, every such acceptance shall be by resolution of the governing body adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members, expressing such terms in full;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School Board of Lancaster Public School, ISD 356, gratefully accepts the following donations as identified below:
Donor Item Designated Purpose (if any)
KIDSON Cares/Vivacity Tech 20 chromebooks and 1 computer/chromebook cart
Hallock Eagles $500 Elementary Flag Football jerseys
American Federal Bank $250
PODCO $100
AgCountry $1,200 School Lunches (Angel program)
(Anna Warnke and Chelsi Langehaug)
The vote on adoption of the Resolution was as follows:
Aye: Diamond, Langerud, Lupien, Nordin, Peterson, and Scalese/Nay: None
Absent: None Whereupon, said Resolution was declared duly adopted.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Peterson and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the Seniority List for 2022/23 as presented by Supt. Thompson.
On a motion by Diamond, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the annual certification of Bus Drivers and Type III Drivers. All drivers have completed their annual requirements.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Langerud and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, hires Grant Masloski as Co-Custodian, effective October 24, 2022.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Lupien and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, hires Alaura Sjoegren as the Type III Van Driver for the Karlstad route effective immediately.
On a motion by Langerud, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, hires Dylan Olson as a full-time Paraprofessional effective October 24, 2022.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, amends the Student Handbook Attendance Policy and Attendance letters as presented by AP Kjono.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, acknowledges the first reading of the eLearning Plan. This plan would only be used if the six built-in school closure days are exhausted.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Lupien and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, acknowledges the review of Policies: ##208 Development, Adoption, and Implementation of Policies, #210 Conflict of Interest – School Board Members.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, acknowledges the annual review of Policies: #410 Family and Medical Leave Policy, #414 Mandated Reporting of Child Neglect or Physical or Sexual Abuse, #415 Mandated Reporting of Vulnerable Adults, #506 Student Discipline, #514 Bullying Prohibition Policy, #616 School District System Accountability, #722 Public Data and Data Subject Request, #806 Crisis Management Policy.
On a motion by Langerud, second by Lupien and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the Extra-Curricular Assignments for the 2022/23 school year for Lancaster School and Kittson County Central as presented by AP Kjono.
On a motion by Diamond, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, agrees to comply with all sections of the Assurance of Compliance with state and federal law including Mandated Reporting training which has been completed by all staff.
Assistant Principal Report:
a. The Teacher Evaluation 3-year cycle was reviewed.
b. A new Crisis Management Manual is in the works. AP Kjono is working on updating procedures for all types of crisis situations. The first reading will be next month.
c. All Juniors and Seniors are on track to graduate.
d. Fall Sports Playoffs are underway.
i. The Football team ended the regular season undefeated at 8 and 0! The Bearcats will take on LOW Tuesday at 6pm at Kittson Central.
ii. The Volleyball Team has had a great season ending 17-9. They will play at 7pm next Thursday at Kittson Central.
iii. The elementary Flag Football season went well. It was nice to see so many kids participate.
iv. Junior High Football also ended the season undefeated.
e. Winter Sports schedules are available.
f.  Coach Waling was named the Minnesota Vikings Coach of the Week for week 7!
Superintendent Report
a. Concurrent Enrollment is an annual form that needs to be completed and approved by the School Board.
On a motion by Langerud, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the 2022/23 Concurrent Enrollment Program Aid application and procedures as presented by Supt. Thompson.
b. The MSBA Conference is January 12 & 13. Board Members were asked to let Coffield know by October 28th whether they plan to attend or not, so rooms can be reserved.
c. Certified Negotiations will begin soon for the 2023/24 and 2024/25 school year. Language will need to be updated regarding the Health Insurance and Savings Plans.
d. Thank yous were received from grades 4-6 for allowing them to go to the Pumpkin Patch in Emerado. One hundred students went on four buses; ESSER III funds were used for this.
e. The MREA Conference is November 13 – 15. Supt. Thompson and Coffield are attending.
f. The next meeting is November 16th at 7:00pm (DST)
g. There is a Special meeting also set for November 16th at 6:00pm to update the Strategic Plan.
Lupien inquired about the newspaper article regarding residential parking on the north side of the school. Supt. Thompson visited with Mayor Mike Olson and she relayed the message to employees. A message will also be sent to families so they are aware as well.
Diamond adjourned the meeting at 8:42 p.m.
James Diamond, Chairperson Lacey Lupien, Clerk
(December 7, 2022)
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LANCASTER SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

The Lancaster School Board met in regular session on Wednesday, November 9, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. in the technology room. The following members were present: James Diamond, Lacey Lupien, Matt Nordin, Justin Peterson, and Jim Scalese. Also present were Superintendent Nicole Thompson, Assistant Principal Drew Kjono, Teacher Rep. Mallory Bernstrom, and Mendy Coffield. Absent: Jason Langerud.
Chairperson Diamond called the meeting to order and took roll call.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those in attendance. The agenda was presented.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Peterson, the agenda was approved as presented.
On a motion by Scalese, second by Nordin, the consent agenda was approved as presented. Items included:
• The minutes of the October 19, 2022, regular meeting was approved.
• Electronic Funds Transfers (EFTs) in the amount of $134,638.63.
• Payroll EFTs in the amount of $123,554.02.
• Credit Card EFTs in the amount of $12,187.82.
• Monthly bills for the regular and the activity account in the amount of $49,481.83.
Check numbers 42077-42134.
• The Budget Comparison and Treasurer’s reports were reviewed.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, calls for bids on a SUV/Van to replace the existing car.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Lupien and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, accepts the TC Energy Foundation Grant in the amount of $2,500 to be used for a new water fountain bottle filler and radios.
The following resolution was moved by: Diamond and seconded by: Scalese
RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATIONS
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statute 123B.02, Subd. 6 provides: “The board may receive, for the benefit of the district, bequests, donations, or gifts for any proper purpose and apply the same to the purpose designated. In that behalf, the board may act as trustee of any trust created for the benefit of the district, or for the benefit of the district, or for the benefit of pupils thereof, including trusts created to provide pupils of the district with advanced education after completion of high school, in the advancement of education.”; and
WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes 465.03 provides: “Any city, county, school district or town may accept a grant or devise of real or personal property to maintain such property for the benefit of its citizens in accordance with the terms prescribed by the donor. Nothing herein shall authorize such acceptance or use for religious or sectarian purposes. Every such acceptance shall be by resolution of the governing body adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members, expressing such terms in full.”; and
WHEREAS, every such acceptance shall be by resolution of the governing body adopted by a two-thirds majority of its members, expressing such terms in full;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the School Board of Lancaster Public School, ISD 356, gratefully accepts the following donations as identified below:
Donor Item Designated Purpose (if any)
Minnesota Vikings $1,000 Football program
(Waling coach of the year)
Anonymous Meals donation $5,000 Angel Fund
The vote on adoption of the Resolution was as follows:
Aye: James Diamond, Lacey Lupien, Matt Nordin, Justin Peterson, and Jim Scalese. Nay:  Absent: Jason Langerud. Whereupon, said Resolution was declared duly adopted.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Lupien and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, hires Rod Hennen as KCC Varsity Hockey Coach effective for the 2022/23 school year.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the transfer of 13 Sick Leave/PTO days from Lisa Rynning, Tiffany Sjostrand, Jamie Winterland, Jaime Peterson, Mendy Coffield and Andrea Sele to Autumn Schindele.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the first reading of the Crisis Management Plan as presented by Assistant Principal Kjono.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Lupien and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the first reading of policies #417 Chemical Use and Abuse, #515 Protection of Pupil Records, #603 Curriculum Development, #604 Instructional Curriculum, #708 Transportation of nonpublic school students, #709 Student Transportation Safety and #721 Uniform Grant Guidance Policy Regarding Federal Revenue Sources as presented by Supt. Thompson.
On a motion by Scalese, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the final reading of the eLearning Plan as presented by Supt. Thompson.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the final Reading of #208 Development, Adoption, and Implementation of Policies, #210 Conflict of Interest – School Board Members as presented by Supt. Thompson.
Unified Sports raised over $1,500 on hat, jean and PJ day to support their activities for this school year. They will attend bowling, swimming and track at TRF.
On a motion by Nordin, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the Custodian Designations, Officer and Advisor List for the Student Activity Funds for the 2022/23 school year.
On a motion by Peterson, second by Scalese and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the Student Activity Fund balances as of October 31, 2022.
On a motion by Scalese, second by Nordin and carried: Be It Resolved, that the Board of Education of Independent School District 356, approves the 2022/23 Field Trip Log as presented.
Pictures of the kitchen upgrades were shared as well as the perfect Health Inspection Report that the food service staff just received! KUDOS to our Staff!
Assistant Principal Kjono presented his report:
a. Fall Sports Playoffs are well underway. A very nice banquet was well attended at the Community Center on Monday night for the Football Team. Thank you to the Lancaster Lions for the bars, the Petersons for the meal catering, Terry Kent for the hamburger, and the Senior Parents for their assistance with banquet.
b. Winter Sports schedules are all set.
Superintendent Thompson presented her report:
c. The MCA summary results were shared and have been posted on the district website.
d. The annual Community Ed Report was reviewed and Upcoming Events were also shared.
e. The Homeschool Report this year consists of thirty-two students.
f. The Census Report is complete and has been submitted to the Department of Education.
g. Special meeting date: Strategic Plan: November 21st at 6:00pm.
Last year’s Strategic Plan as well as a form for Board members to complete for the current year was distributed.
h. The next regular meeting is set for December 21st at 7:00pm (TNT meeting)
Diamond adjourned the meeting at 7:44 p.m.
James Diamond, Chairperson Lacey Lupien, Clerk
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LANCASTER SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

The Lancaster School Board met in regular session on Tuesday, November 15, 2022, at 5:30 p.m. in the Supt. Office. Members present: James Diamond, Lacey Lupien, Jason Langerud, Matt Nordin and Justin Peterson. Also present were Superintendent Nicole Thompson, Assistant Principal Drew Kjono, and Mendy Coffield. Absent: Jim Scalese.
Chairperson Diamond called the meeting to order and took roll call.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those in attendance. The agenda was presented.
On a motion by Peterson second by Langerud and carried: BE IT RESOLVED by the School Board of Lancaster School District 356, State of Minnesota, as follows:
1. It is hereby found, determined and declared that the general election of the voters of this school district held on November 8, 2022, in conjunction was in all respects duly and legally called and held.
2. As specified in the attached Abstract and Return of Votes Cast on the election of three school board members for a four-year term on the board caused by expiration of term on the first Monday in January next following the general election as follows:
Four-year term:
James Scalese 323
Lacey Lupien 304
Brittany Swenson 300
Write-ins: 18:
Rebecca Whitlock 2
Katie Bernstrom 2
Jesse Peterson 3
Jason Weleski 2
Patrick Anderson 1
Timothy Peterson 3
Janet Johnson 1
Jason Langerud 3
George Hanson 1
3. Candidates Scalese, Lupien and Swenson having received the highest number of votes are elected to four-year terms beginning on the first Monday in January 2023.
4. The school district clerk is hereby authorized to certify the results of the election to the county auditor.
WITNESS MY HAND officially as Clerk of said School District this 15th day of November 2022.
Lacey Lupien, School District Clerk
Diamond adjourned the meeting at 5:35 p.m.
James Diamond, Chairperson Lacey Lupien, Clerk
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LANCASTER SCHOOL BOARD PROCEEDINGS

The Lancaster School Board met in special session on Monday, November 21, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. in the Supt. Office. Members present: James Diamond, Lacey Lupien, Jason Langerud, Matt Nordin and Justin Peterson. Also present were Superintendent Nicole Thompson, Assistant Principal Drew Kjono, and Mendy Coffield. Jim Scalese joined the meeting at 6:35 p.m.
Chairperson Diamond called the meeting to order and took roll call.
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those in attendance.
Superintendent Thompson opened the meeting with the Strategic Plan working document. Discussion was held on the existing seven sections of the plan as well as the new recommendation section by school employees. The items were discussed and placed in the proper section. The revised Strategic Plan will be reviewed at the December meeting. It will also be shared with district employees.
Diamond adjourned the meeting at 7:24 p.m.
James Diamond, Chairperson Lacey Lupien, Clerk
(December 7, 2022)
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