The Mount Pleasant Community School District Board of Directors held their June meeting Monday evening, approving several items ranging from a new student support option through a virtual learning agreement to policy updates and facility changes.
Online Learning Partnership with Burlington
In a significant step to support students with unique needs, the Board approved a 28E agreement with the Burlington Community School District to allow Mount Pleasant students to access Burlington’s virtual education program. The option, available for students in grades 6-12, is intended for short-term use in cases where in-person attendance is not viable due to medical, emotional, or family-related challenges.
“We’ve been clear from the beginning: this is not about Mount Pleasant offering a general online school,” said Superintendent John Henriksen. “This is a targeted tool in our toolbox for students who, for reasons beyond their control, need an alternative temporarily. We want to bring these students back into our classrooms when the time is right.”
Board members acknowledged the flexibility this program offers, particularly for students facing medical emergencies, anxiety, or other hardships. They emphasized the importance of regular evaluation and intentional reintegration planning.
Updated Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy
The Board also approved the first reading of a revised policy concerning student use of personal electronic devices. The policy, required by new state legislation, defines “instructional time” as the full school day, excluding lunch and recess, and prohibits student use of phones, smartwatches, and other devices during that time unless permitted under an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), 504 plan, or for medical necessity.
Superintendent Henriksen noted that this change would mostly affect high school students. Communication to families will be emphasized in the weeks leading up to the 2025-2026 school year.
2025-2026 Student Handbook Updates
Handbook revisions were also reviewed and approved. These updates included minor language corrections, additions for preschool, and clarifications across all grade levels. Principals collaborated on the changes, which reflect current practices and board policy.
Central Campus Facility Update
The Board approved a $47,000 change order to add air conditioning to the warehouse portion of the Central Campus receiving and transportation facility. The space stores sensitive materials such as paper, which require temperature and humidity control. The initial bid package failed to include HVAC for this area.
Instead of installing multiple wall units, the district chose a more efficient solution involving a rooftop air handler and outdoor condenser. The new system is expected to reduce long-term maintenance and improve reliability.
Additional Items Approved
- 12-Month Employee Vacation Schedule: No changes were proposed, and the Board unanimously approved the continuation of the current schedule.
- 2025-2026 Bread Bid: The district renewed its bread supply contract with Bimbo Bakeries (Holsum) after receiving no other bids. Slight price increases were noted for sandwich buns and other items.
- Great Prairie AEA Contract: The Board approved the annual agreement for training and services related to the Special Education Plan, part of statewide changes under House File 612, shifting funding allocations between districts and Area Education Agencies (AEAs).
The meeting concluded with all items passing with unanimous support. Board members voiced continued commitment to ensuring the district remains flexible, student-focused, and well-equipped for the coming school year.