District outlines capital projects, online program launch and $1.5M tax‑credit benefit from chiller project

Ashley Swartz presented the 2026 summer capital project schedule and said the district estimates about $1.5 million in projects this summer funded from long‑term facility maintenance (LTFM), operating capital and remaining capital facilities bond proceeds. Highlighted work includes an LED lighting retrofit and carpet replacement at Bemidji Middle School; the LED project is expected to generate an energy‑efficiency rebate and lower utility costs.

In the superintendent’s report, leaders said the district will transition from a partnership with Owatonna Online to a locally operated "Bemidji Online" program as the district’s preferred online provider next year and will send a family survey to guide goal‑setting. Administrators also noted ongoing FY27 budget work and that the district must adopt a budget by June 30.

The superintendent said the district filed for a tax credit related to the chiller replacement project that will reduce the overall project cost by about $1.5 million. Administration described the chiller work as an energy efficiency investment and said capturing the tax credit was the result of timing the project earlier than originally planned.

Student representatives reported that the district graduation rate rose to 80.2% this year, up from 74.8% in 2024 per the Minnesota Department of Education, and reminded the community of upcoming events (construction class open house, orchestra concert, graduation at the Sanford Center).