# November 12, 2026 - School Board Meeting of Forest Lake Area Schools


**Body:** FL Boardroom
**Date:** November 11, 2026
**Jurisdiction:** SLED

**Tags:** Education, Construction & Infrastructure, Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding


The November 12, 2026, Forest Lake Area Schools School Board meeting included discussion of ongoing contract negotiations with bus drivers, mechanics, custodians, and other employee groups. Staff and union representatives described recruitment and retention challenges and sought improved pay, license stipends, benefits, and work-life balance; the administration said it had met with the groups four or five times. No labor agreement, spending motion, contract award, or other procurement decision was made. The board also heard that the Columbus Elementary community raised more than $300,000 toward two completed playgrounds. The superintendent estimated that a change to Minnesota’s permanent school fund distribution could bring the district approximately $180,000–$190,000 in additional annual funding at today’s values. No bids, vendor selections, or purchasing approvals were identified.

Other business included a presentation on student engagement and attendance, routine reports, and policy readings. The board approved several policies and voted to send the graduation requirements policy back to committee to consider questions including pass/fail options for some accelerated courses. These actions did not involve procurement or spending approvals.

**Source:** FL Boardroom