School Board Meeting - Sep. 8, 2026

The Stillwater Area Public Schools held a study session on September 8, 2026, focusing primarily on updates related to new school openings, transportation challenges, and the upcoming levy process. The board discussed the successful opening of two new elementary schools and ongoing construction at Oakland Middle School, including classroom additions and facility improvements. Transportation was a significant topic, highlighting increased costs, route efficiencies, longer ride times, and the impact of state mandates requiring the district to provide busing for non-public and charter school students, which strains the budget. The board also reviewed the complexities of the levy process, including state-imposed caps, various levy components such as operating, technology, capital projects, and post-employment benefits, and the timeline for certification and approval. Discussions included potential legislative advocacy to increase levy caps and state aid, especially for transportation costs. No specific contract awards or vendor selections were mentioned, but budget allocations and capital improvement projects were central to the discussion.