04-26-2010 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, April 26, 2010 7:00 o'clock p.m. (4. WESTONSA SCHOOLS UPDATE, Continued) The Destination Imagination program ranked first in the state and the students were able to attend the global competition. Westonka's 215` Century Knowledge Base identifies a pathway to the future and pinpoints skills that are critical for students to achieve success. As a district, the school district has identified five different areas for students to achieve literacy, and professional learning communities have been established to help achieve that goal. Westonka is also in the process of establishing a strong financial basis. The school's fund balance grew to 4 percent and is expected to hit 10 percent. • Borg commented that these are challenging times for school districts, counties, and cities given the tough economy. The school district also distributes a weekly e -mail newsletter, which provides regular updates on the accomplishments of the students and provides relevant information on the district. Borg indicated the school district is also looking at ways to provide school facilities that will help strengthen the educational program. Westonka is currently looking at the early children program, which leases space, and whether that should be brought into the school district as a way to save money. Borg noted the school district has signed an agreement with Kraus Anderson to complete a facilities review and their findings will be compiled in the near future. At the present time Westonka is approximately half way through the strategic plan, with good progress being made, and with some additional work still being required to meet all of the goals. White complemented Superintendent Borg on the College Prep Guide that has been prepared by the school district. Borg stated the school's goal is that all students have the opportunity to attend college, and that the College Prep Guide is one way the school district is encouraging parents to help their children plan for college. White commented that Superintendent Borg has done a fabulous job on raising the standards of the Westonka School District and that it is important to establish priorities. Borg noted they have cut approximately $1.8 million from the school district's budget over the past four years, but that they have benefitted from the local community supporting their local levy. In addition, the administrative staff has done an excellent job in spite of the staff cuts. Bremer asked how many students are enrolled through open enrollment. Borg stated they have experienced an increase in students through the open enrollment option. The eastern border of the district continues to experience a decrease in students who attend Westonka but that they will continue to monitor the issues associated with open enrollment and the impact it has 'on the school district. A number of different schooling choices are now available to parents and students. Murphy commented he has been impressed with the exceptional job that Superintendent Borg has done with the school district and the positive attitude he displays. Murphy noted Superintendent Borg had inherited a number of issues that had to be resolved and that Borg has addressed those issues and is a Page 2 of 15 C] n U n U