Glacial Hills and MAS Explore Potential Partnership

Starbuck, Minn. — Glacial Hills Charter School (GHES) and Minnewaska Area Schools (MAS) are excited to announce their collaboration to combine educational services, creating expanded opportunities for students while preserving the unique strengths of each institution. This partnership, currently in the planning and legal review phase, aims to strategically align resources to provide a sustainable and enriching educational experience for all students.

Both organizations recognize the challenges posed by declining enrollment and the evolving landscape of education. By uniting under the MAS umbrella, Glacial Hills Elementary gains access to enhanced funding opportunities, improved teacher compensation, and increased resources that support innovative programming. MAS, in turn, has the opportunity to expand its environmental and lake-focused learning experiences and provide students with more diverse educational pathways.

“We believe this partnership is a step toward a more sustainable future for our students and community,” said Chip Rankin, Superintendent of MAS. “Stronger together, we can combine resources to do what is best for our families and build a program that aligns with the educational needs of the next 10 to 25 years.”

Jodee Lund, Director of Glacial Hills Elementary, echoes this sentiment. “This collaboration is the right move and the best decision moving forward. By coming together, we strengthen our ability to provide a high-quality educational experience while maintaining a meaningful presence in Starbuck. Our focus is on creating a strategic roadmap that benefits everyone involved.”

The Glacial Hills Charter School Board and Minnewaska Area Schools are united with a shared goal of maintaining high-quality education, preserving community connections, and ensuring a smooth transition for students, families, and staff.

The partnership will continue to develop over the next year, with tentative plans to formally transition Glacial Hills Elementary under the MAS umbrella by the 2026-2027 school year. As planning progresses, both organizations are committed to maintaining transparent communication with  families, community members, and stakeholders.

Key Takeaways:

• GHES would cease operations as a Charter school and transition to a Minnewaska Area School for the 2026/27 school year
• A Starbuck location will remain open and operate as a Minnewaska Area Schools
• Collaboration allows for a more efficient use of resources and maximizes tax dollars
• Existing programs and services will continue without disruption
• Eaglet Child Care will continue operating with its current policies and fees

More information and future updates will be posted to MAS news and communicated directly with our families.