Dear neighbors,
For thousands of Minnesotans, today is the first day of school. I want to send my sincere best wishes to students and parents, and thank the teachers and staff who put their hearts into making our schools the best they can be. The new school year is a fresh start for many of us, and I look forward to seeing all the back-to-school pictures from family and friends.
Earlier this year, the Legislature passed quite a few measures to support Minnesota schools. All of our public school districts will see a two percent increase in per-student funding this year and the year after. I’ll continue to work with students, parents, teachers, support staff, and administrators from our local school districts to ensure that all our students are receiving the high-quality education that they need and deserve.
My son and our puppy on the walk to school this morning!
Student Safety
Now that another new school year has begun, students will be traveling to and from school regularly. Please drive carefully and keep an eye out for cyclists and pedestrians, particularly in neighborhoods and school zones. Remember to slow down and exercise caution around school buses and remind your kids and loved ones to stay safe while getting on and off the bus.
White Bear Lake Area Schools Bond Referendum
More and more people are choosing to live and raise a family in our community. Many newcomers chose this area because of our excellent schools, but the rapid increase in enrollment has been a challenge for local schools. The White Bear Lake Area School District has seen enrollment increase by seven percent since 2010 and expects another 2,000 students to enroll in the next ten years. Our schools must expand and change to meet the needs of our growing community.
On Tuesday, November 5, residents of the White Bear Lake Area School District will have the opportunity to vote on a bond referendum that would help local schools manage increasing enrollment and prepare for continued growth. If it’s approved, the referendum will help address building needs and maintenance, improve safety and security, and create flexible learning spaces.
A short video about the bond referendum is available here. You can find more information at www.isd624.org/Bond2019. If you have any questions, I encourage you to attend one of the upcoming public meetings on the referendum. Please save the following dates and remember to cast your vote on or before November 5:
When: Tuesday, September 24 at 7 p.m.
Where: District Center, 4855 Bloom Avenue, White Bear Lake, MN 55110
When: Wednesday, October 2 at 7 p.m.
Where: Hugo Elementary, 14895 Francesca Avenue N., Hugo, MN 55038
When: Thursday, October 3 at 7 p.m.
Where: Vadnais Heights Elementary, 3645 Centerville Road, Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Have an excellent school year!
Sincerely,
Jamie