From Rotarian Jon Smale's post to our club's Facebook page:
Superintendent, Peter Olson-Skog stopped to give us an update on School District 197.
ISD 197 is currently focused on academic updates, budget pressures, and community climate issues.
On the academic side, the district is rolling out a new K–12 math curriculum aligned with updated Minnesota state standards set to take effect in 2027–28. Planning is underway now so staff can pilot materials and ensure a smooth transition.
Financially, the district is facing ongoing structural budget challenges. Recent board actions included about $2.5 million in budget reductions, driven by a mismatch between slow revenue growth (around 1%) and faster rising costs (about 3%). This gap is expected to persist, meaning additional adjustments may be needed in future years.
The school board has also addressed student safety and inclusion, including issuing statements reaffirming that all students—regardless of background or immigration status—are welcome and safe in schools.
Rotarian Jon is heading up our club's Fundraising Committee. Please let him know if you have any fundraising ideas and/or would like to join his committee!
We meet at 7:30 Wednesday mornings at Saint Anne’s Episcopal Church located at 2035 Charlton Road, Sunfish Lake, MN 55118. Join us for a continental breakfast with good coffee followed by an engaging program. On even number months, we meet at 7:30a at the Copperfield restaurant in Mendota Heights. (e.g. first Wed in Aug)
