Creating Safer Schools for Today’s World

Student safety is Minnewaska Area Schools highest priority. We cannot live our mission statement, Engage Every Student, Every Day if they don’t feel safe and secure. While we make continuous efforts on student and staff safety, we must adapt our facilities to meet modern security standards.

The bond referendum includes comprehensive security improvements designed to protect students while maintaining our welcoming atmosphere. These thoughtful, research-based improvements reflect best practices in school safety.

Key security enhancements include:

• Secure Entry Systems: Creating controlled access points to screen visitors before they enter student areas
• Improved Visibility: Redesigning office locations and entry areas for better sightlines
• Traffic Flow Improvements: Separating bus and car traffic to reduce congestion and improve safety
• Updated Communication Systems: Ensuring reliable emergency communication throughout all buildings

Currently, visitors at some buildings can access student areas before checking in. The proposed improvements would create secure vestibules where all visitors must be screened before entering.

By investing in proper security infrastructure now, we create environments where students focus on learning, teachers focus on teaching, and parents have peace of mind. These improvements benefit everyone who uses our facilities for community events, activities, and programs.

Learn more about proposed security enhancements, calculate your estimated tax impact, and get voting information at www.minnewaska.k12.mn.us/bond-vote or attend one of our upcoming Open Q&A Sessions.

Open Q&A Sessions

• Monday, October 13, 4 p.m., Minnewaska High School Cafeteria
• Monday, October 13, 6 p.m., Minnewaska High School Cafeteria

Early & Absentee Voting:

• Now – November 3, Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• Minnewaska Area Schools District Office, Door #1
• *Voting will not be available on October 16 or 17

Vote!

• Tuesday, November 4 – 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
• Pope County Courthouse

Chip Rankin, Superintendent