MAS Board Advances $25 Million Bond Proposal Following Strong Community Support

At its regular meeting on June 16, the Minnewaska Area School Board voted to move forward with a $25 million building bond referendum. The proposal will go before voters in a special election this November.

The decision follows the results of the district’s April 2025 community survey, which drew 889 responses and demonstrated a 60.5% weighted level of support for a $25 million bond focused on school safety, infrastructure updates, career readiness, and early learning.

“This plan reflects direct community feedback and a shared commitment to responsible stewardship of public resources,” said Superintendent Chip Rankin. “We sincerely appreciate the public’s input. While we recognize this plan doesn’t solve every facility challenge, it focuses on the highest priorities identified by our residents and staff.”

What’s Included in the Proposal:

The proposed bond will fund high-priority improvements across the district, including:

• School safety enhancements – secure entrances and traffic flow redesign

• Modern learning spaces – updated CTE shops, media centers, and collaboration areas

• Infrastructure upgrades – HVAC systems, pool filtration, and parking lots

• Early childhood and childcare expansion – increased access and support for working families

• Pool and auditorium investments – maintaining vital community and student resources

This is not a new school construction plan. It is a focused reinvestment in Minnewaska’s current facilities to ensure they remain safe, effective, and future-ready.

Board Chair Chad Barsness emphasized the value of this investment:

“Our schools are at the heart of our community, and this referendum represents an important opportunity to invest in their future. By prioritizing school safety, addressing long-overdue facility needs, and expanding vital programs like early childhood education and childcare, we’re not just maintaining our schools—we’re strengthening them for the students, families, and educators who depend on them every day.”

Childcare Partnership Strengthens Support

The Board also acknowledged a $1 million funding commitment from the Pope County Commissioners to support a proposed childcare facility on the Glenwood campus. This public-private collaboration enhances the district’s ability to serve families while supporting local workforce and economic growth.

What’s Next

The district will release additional details in early August, including:

• Project renderings

• Financial breakdowns

• Opportunities for public input and engagement

Community members will be invited to attend informational forums, facility tours, and Q&A sessions ahead of the November special election.

Media Contact:
Chip Rankin
Superintendent, Minnewaska Area Schools