The St. Joseph School District's Special Board of Education Meeting on May 14, 2025, highlighted significant discussions regarding educational strategies and long-term planning for the district. Board member Catherine Seifert emphasized her commitment to ensuring that every child in the district receives the support they need to succeed, reflecting her personal investment as a parent of a young child in the school system.

Seifert expressed her support for the implementation of a four-day school week, citing potential operational cost savings and the positive experiences of other districts that have adopted this model. She believes that such a change could benefit both students and the district financially. However, she also acknowledged the difficulty in pinpointing other decisions made by the board that she strongly agreed or disagreed with, indicating a general confidence in the board's direction.

In addressing the district's long-range planning, Seifert stressed the importance of data-driven decision-making. She stated that any proposals, such as closing schools, should be backed by solid data to justify such actions. Additionally, she expressed disappointment over the lack of a library in the recently built Carden Park school, highlighting the necessity of libraries in fostering a reading culture among students.

Seifert concluded by underscoring the connection between the quality of education and the district's attractiveness to businesses, suggesting that a strong educational system is vital for community growth and economic development. The meeting underscored the board's ongoing commitment to enhancing educational outcomes and ensuring that all stakeholders are considered in future planning efforts.