Owatonna Public Schools
Parent Newsletter: Special Edition
May 17, 2019
Hello Owatonna Public School District Parents-
On Tuesday, May 14, we learned that the residents of Owatonna rejected the referendum 49.47% yes (5642 votes) to 50.52% no (5762 votes). The failed request means the school district will not receive funding for a new high school.
The Owatonna School District would like to thank everyone who attended one of our referendum events to learn more information. With over 500 people attending the high school tours, 175 people attending the public information sessions and over 80 district- hosted presentations to community groups and organizations our community was engaged and invested in the process.
One of my key messages this election was to get out and vote. This election had the highest voter turnout the district has ever seen with 63% of registered voters showing up to the polls (11,404 voters). Many of our students and OHS alumni exercised their right to vote for the first time. With 11,404 voters, this election also had the most yes votes this district has ever seen in past referendums. That is something to be proud of.
Moving forward, the School Board and district administration will discuss ways to determine why the community was not supportive of the request, especially given the extensive planning process and work of the Community Task Force on Facilities that resulted in the ballot question.
Next steps will be communicated to district parents as we continue on our journey to provide equitable access to high quality, innovative learning opportunities, ensuring all students are college, career and life ready.
To read the full Press Release CLICK HERE
Sincerely,
Jeff Elstad
Contact Us
Email: sbaumbach@isd761.org
Website: www.owatonna.k12.mn.us
Location: 515 West Bridge Street, Owatonna, MN, USA
Phone: 507-444-8600
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/owatonnapublicschools/
Twitter: @ISD761_Owatonna