The Need

Our school is the center of our community. It is a point of pride and focal point for all that’s great about Osakis. For all of our strengths as a school district and community, however, a few easily identifiable needs require attention.

The current referendum proposal addresses needs as identified by way of a school facilities study and the district’s new strategic plan, which calls for facilities improvement. The needs generally fall into one of two categories.

Classroom Needs

• Career and Technology, music, physical education and special education classrooms are short on space, or located in places that disrupt other classrooms.

• Enrollment increases have put elementary classrooms at near capacity.

In short, additional instructional space is needed to provide an appropriate learning environment. 

Safety and Security Needs

• Currently, students must mix with traffic at drop off and pick-up time, creating a hazardous situation. 

• Security is compromised during special events because the school’s existing configuration does not allow us to cordon off classrooms from public spaces.

• The 80-year-old auditorium has accessibility issues and is too small, leaving attendees standing in aisles and side spaces.

The “Smart, Safe, Strong” bond referendum would make a difference in preparing our students for 21st Century challenges by addressing instructional needs, along with safety and security.