South Washington County Schools recognized its student district ambassadors and approved three personnel-related contract actions during a brief May 21 school board meeting at the District Service Center in Cottage Grove.
Superintendent Julie Nielsen opened the meeting’s main presentation by celebrating the district’s student ambassadors, who represent schools across South Washington County. Nielsen said the students met five times during the school year, taking part in activities that included storytelling and perspective-taking exercises, nutrition services taste testing, a behind-the-scenes tour of the district office, a “world café” feedback session and discussions on digital literacy and course offerings.
“We are excited to celebrate and end the school year with our district student ambassadors,” Nielsen said.
Several students introduced themselves and shared what they gained from the program. Mallory, a Woodbury Elementary student ambassador, said the experience helped her “share my opinions on food choices and give input on student norms.”
“I learned that my opinions are valuable and I gained confidence in trying new experiences,” she said.
Emily, a fifth grader at Grey Cloud Elementary, said she appreciated working with students from other schools to suggest improvements.
“It felt like the students had a voice and not just the adults,” she said. “I learned that there are many people that are working behind the scenes to help our schools be successful.”
Several other students spoke as well, many giving just their name and school to board members.
Nielsen said the ambassador program helps students build leadership through small steps, including introducing themselves, speaking into a microphone and advocating for themselves and others.
Following the recognition, the board approved its consent agenda and moved through three action items. The board approved the release of long-term substitute teaching contracts, a routine annual action required under Minnesota law. Abby Baker, executive director of human resources and operations, said the district must terminate the contracts because long-term substitutes fill positions for teachers who have return rights.
The board also approved a new contract with Teamsters Local 320 Kids Club supervisors. The agreement runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, and includes a three percent wage increase in the first year and a two percent increase in the second year. It also includes increases to district contributions for high-deductible medical plans and a VEBA increase to $125 per month beginning Jan. 1, 2027.
A second labor agreement was approved for bus mechanics represented by the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 70. The contract also runs from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028, and includes wage increases for bus mechanics and head mechanics, along with increased district contributions for high-deductible medical plans.
In her superintendent’s report, Nielsen said families and staff should have received the district’s quarterly mailing, which she called a key source of information for the community. She also highlighted employee recognition events, senior awards programs, upcoming graduations and the Memorial Day holiday.
Nielsen said Park High School students alone received more than $300,000 in scholarships during its awards event, with districtwide scholarships estimated in the millions.
The next school board workshop is scheduled for June 11, followed by a business meeting June 25, both at 6 p.m. at the District Service Center.