October 19, Operating Levy Community Listening Session

Brainerd Public Schools held an operating levy community listening session on October 19, 2026 (the meeting date is listed in the metadata as October 20 UTC). District representatives discussed a proposed $5 million operating levy, which would appear on the November 3 ballot and was described as costing about $11 per month for a $375,000 home after state seasonal-property tax aid. They also explained a separate statewide constitutional amendment concerning distribution of the Permanent School Fund, which they said could provide the district more than $100,000 annually without new taxes. The measures are independent; no votes or spending approvals occurred at the session.

The district described budget pressures, including rising special-education costs and large class sizes, and outlined possible operational changes for community feedback. Options included returning fifth grade to elementary schools, changing middle-school schedules, reviewing buildings and program locations, expanding online schooling, and studying two-tier busing. The district cited potential savings from some proposals, including about $1.5 million from revised busing, but said the options remain under review and no decisions have been made. A refined plan is expected at a November 5 work session, with a board decision anticipated December 14.