---

The Chisago Lakes School Board held a quick, final summer meeting before students return to school and the agendas get packed.

Superintendent Brian Dietz noted the district's teaching partnership with Bethel University has been fruitful so far and that for the first time, a student teacher that was in the CL buildings through the program will be starting full time as a teacher at Lakeside Elementary.

Dietz also said they are looking to expand the teacher student program. “There’s going to be things we're doing that gives more access to their teachers, and that will benefit us greatly," he said. “We are figuring out logistics, but Bethel has been a great partner and I’m excited about what's to come and how it can impact our staff and kids.”

The board took the first step in running another school board referendum next year and submitted their plans for review and comment from the Minnesota Department of Education, a formality in the process.

“Ever since the election in May, we spent a lot of time looking at data through surveys, conversations and everything we could,” Dietz explained. “The process we went through this summer was very mindful. We are trying to come up with a plan that makes sense for people and I think we’ve hit the mark. It’s a good step. We have been making progress, and this is our year. We need the support from our community.”

In the final piece on the agenda, Dietz’s new three year contract was approved unanimously by the board. Chairman Lori Berg started by saying, “I’m so thankful for Brian's leadership. It really matters all the way down to every decision you make. I’ve been grateful for your positivity and your experience.”

Berg also noted that Dietz stated frankly before the negotiation started that he did not want his total package percentage increase to be above the other groups who had recently negotiated contracts

Berg stated that the negotiation team looked at comparables around the area to come up with new numbers. The contract, which begins in July of 2026, will compensate Dietz $198,300 in 2026, $204,196 in 2027 and $212,500 in 2028.

---