06/08/2026
JOINT STATEMENT FROM BRAINERD PUBLIC SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION MINNESOTA -
BRAINERD
Brainerd, MN (June 8, 2026) Brainerd Public Schools and Education Minnesota - Brainerd (EMB) are pleased to announce that they have reached a tentative agreement on a 2025-2027 collective bargaining agreement following several months of negotiations.
The tentative agreement reflects a collaborative effort by both parties to address the significant financial challenges facing the district while maintaining a shared commitment to supporting students, staff, and families.
The agreement comes amid ongoing budget challenges that have required difficult decisions across the district. Both parties recognized the importance of working together to help preserve educational programming and minimize impacts on students and classrooms. Throughout negotiations, both teams engaged in thoughtful and respectful discussions.
As part of those efforts, EMB previously agreed to forgo $500,000 in staff development funding for the upcoming school year, demonstrating a commitment to helping address the district's financial situation. The School Board likewise worked to minimize the impact of budget reductions on class sizes and student learning opportunities by offering an early retirement incentive and will draw upon reserves to cover its obligations within its current funding constraints.
"This tentative agreement demonstrates what can be accomplished when people come to the table with a shared commitment to students and a willingness to work through difficult challenges together," said Board President Sarah Speer. "The district faces significant financial realities, but throughout this process, both parties remained focused on finding solutions that support our students, respect our staff, and position the district for long-term stability. I am grateful for the professionalism and dedication shown by everyone involved."
EMB President Misty Jobe echoed the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility.
"Our educators care deeply about the success of Brainerd students and the future of our schools," Jobe said. "These negotiations required difficult conversations and thoughtful compromises from both sides. While financial challenges remain, this tentative agreement reflects a good-faith effort to balance the needs of students, educators, and the district as a whole."
Because the agreement remains subject to ratification by both the EMB membership and the Brainerd School Board, the parties are not releasing details of the tentative agreement until they have had the opportunity to review and vote on the proposal. In accordance with union bylaw requirements, EMB's membership will vote on the proposal at the beginning of the next school year. Brainerd Public Schools and EMB look forward to continuing their partnership in support of student success.
