The Rush City School Board met for a Work Session/Board Retreat on Wednesday, Aug. 5, focusing on thoughtful planning for the upcoming school year and the long-term success of the district.
A significant portion of the evening was dedicated to discussing the future of the district under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Jeff Horton, who shared what he has been hearing during his first weeks in Rush City and emphasized the importance of engaging students, staff, families and community members in shaping the district's future.
The board expressed enthusiasm for listening to our community and potentially revising our current strategic plan to ensure it reflects the voice of our community as well as evidence-based education practices. They discussed the Rush City Public Schools guiding theme for the year, "Listen. Reflect. Transform." as a framework for the work ahead. This will begin with listening to stakeholders, reflecting on district strengths and opportunities, and working together to transform learning and opportunities for students.
Board members also discussed expanding community engagement through listening sessions and the School Board Advisory Committee, encouraging broad participation from families and community members. To help guide this work, the board established a committee that will work as a board-superintendent team to develop recommendations for goals that align with the district's strategic priorities.
The work session reflected the board's shared commitment to continuous improvement, strong governance and working together with the community to ensure every Rush City student has the opportunity to succeed.
The board also reviewed a new state requirement to formalize the district's Automated External Defibrillator (AED) management plan. While Rush City Schools has long maintained AEDs throughout its buildings, the new plan will ensure equipment is regularly inspected, maintained and documented to help keep students, staff and visitors safe.
Board members reviewed final versions of the elementary student handbook in preparation for formal approval later this month and discussed providing district-issued Chromebooks to School Board members to better support their work reviewing materials, attending committee meetings and staying connected with district business.
Following the work session, the School Board entered a closed session to consult with legal counsel regarding pending arbitration, as permitted under Minnesota law.
Community members can review the complete agenda and supporting materials by visiting the the meeting agenda page and watch the meeting video online.
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