Bond Referendum Includes Partnership to Expand Pope County Childcare Access

Minnewaska Area Schools’ bond referendum includes funding to add a childcare center in Glenwood, representing a partnership between our district, pope county, grants and private donors to address the region’s documented childcare shortage.

Partnership and Funding Structure

The childcare project involves multiple funding sources working together:

Pope County awarded $1 million to MAS in August 2025 through a Grant and Subrecipient Agreement approved by the school board. This funding is specifically designated to ensure the project remains financially self-sustaining without requiring subsidy from the district’s General Education Aid.

Additionally, a $1.875 million USDA grant application is in the final stages of a required environmental study. These federal funds have not yet been fully allocated and are not included in the district’s official financial figures at this time. The timeline for this grant approval is outside the district’s control.

The bond referendum funds the district’s portion of construction costs for this community facility. Private individuals and businesses have committed to support funding through scholarships and donations.

Community Access and Capacity

The center will provide up to 100 childcare slots for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The facility will be open to the general public and must operate for at least ten years as a condition of grant agreements. No more than 25 percent of capacity can be reserved for contracted partners, ensuring broad community access. The childcare space in Starbuck will be available for additional programming as we are committed to keeping childcare options available in Starbuck.

Addressing Regional Needs

Pope County faces a documented shortage of approximately 200 childcare slots. The lack of quality childcare options impacts workforce participation and economic development. This project represents a strategic investment in infrastructure that serves families county wide.

Why This Matters for MAS

Quality childcare supports student success by helping families balance work and family responsibilities. The facility also provides career exploration opportunities for students interested in early childhood education and related fields, connecting to the district’s career pathways programming.

Financial Accountability and Self-Sustainability

The Pope County grant specifically ensures that childcare operations will not require subsidy from General Education Aid. Subrecipient agreements include strict construction timelines, operational requirements, and reporting obligations. Grant funds must be held in restricted accounts and used only for allowable project costs. The district provides annual reporting to Pope County to ensure transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

Additional information about all components of the bond referendum is available at www.minnewaska.k12.mn.us/bond-vote/.