Last November, the Blue Earth Area School District asked voters to consider a bond referendum that would have built a new PK-6 school and provided much-needed investments in the existing high school. While that referendum did not pass, the need for safe, modern, and accessible learning spaces remains.

Now, the BEA District is turning to the heart of the community – the residents and families – to ask for input on how to move forward.

“We deeply value your voices,” says BEA superintendent Mandy Fletcher. “And your feedback will help shape the future of our schools.”

An online survey is available until March 1, giving community members the opportunity to share their thoughts on the referendum, the challenges facing our schools, and potential next steps.

“The needs of our facilities are not going away,” says superintendent Fletcher. “We want to hear directly from our community about how we can work together to invest in our schools and support our students.”

The most pressing issue is the existing PK-7 building, where portions are nearly a century old, Fletcher explains. Aging plumbing, accessibility challenges, and outdated infrastructure make it increasingly difficult to provide the learning environment the students deserve.

“The cost of these necessary improvements goes far beyond our operational budget,” Fletcher explains. “We are at a critical moment where we must determine the best long-term plan for our students, our schools, and our community.”

All residents are being encouraged to take part in this important conversation.

Your voice matters, Fletcher adds, and your input will help shape the future of education at BEA.

To participate, visit www.beaschools.org and take the survey before March 1.

Together, we can build a stronger future for our students and community, she concludes.