×

To the Citizens of District 88

In August of 2014, voters of the school district were asked to support a $46.9 million referendum that would build a new 9-12 high school and remodel our existing buildings to support new programs. The referendum passed. In the time since that vote, we have worked hard to update our facilities to meet student and program needs for today and many years to come. Through the hard work of many people, and a commitment to excellence in New Ulm, we were able to see our plans come true. This would not be possible if not for the strong support of our communities.

The new high school is 167,000 square feet of multipurpose, durable and efficient spaces. The building is designed to include: collaborative learning spaces, personalized learning, flexible learning and multipurpose spaces, energy efficiency, create a sense of pride and belonging, a community center for academics, arts and athletics.

Washington Elementary (formerly grades 4-6) was transformed to the Washington Learning Center (WLC) and now houses Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, ECFE and Community Education. WLC engages the students in outdoor learning experiences, structured play, learning centers and a focus on social, emotional and academic growth.

Jefferson Elementary transitioned to a grades 1-4 building. The focus at Jefferson is on small group instruction, positive behavior intervention, and responsive classrooms. A multipurpose room was added to provide more indoor movement space and programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) were added throughout the school day.

The Middle School was designed to serve students in grades 5-8, using the former high school. Remodeling was completed in several areas of the building to accommodate the new programs. Students are assigned to advisories, work with a core set of teachers in a “House,” and have many elective or exploratory options in their schedule.

This was by no means an easy undertaking. It took everyone doing their part: from planning, to packing, to moving, to learning new teaching models, to working in new teams, and then moving into new spaces. The school board would like to thank all of our staff for their professionalism, patience, creativity and understanding throughout the entire process of design and construction.

It is often said that it takes a village to raise a child. That statement still holds true for our students. We need a strong commitment to education- that includes community members and businesses willing to engage with the schools, parents who support our work, and staff who have a passion to work with students of all ability groups.

We have turned a page in the books of New Ulm Schools. As we look forward, our focus will remain on offering safe and nurturing learning environments, challenging and engaging curriculum, and providing students of all ability levels opportunity to showcase their passion and growth. The updated facilities provide our students so many more opportunities before, during and after school. The school is the hub of what students know and do.

There were many local contractors involved in the building and remodeling of our buildings. We would like to thank all of them for their work and for helping us to build a better tomorrow for our students.

We are very fortunate for the support of our parents, communities, businesses and staff. Again, thank you for your support and for providing our students 21st Century learning facilities.

Go Eagles!

Jeff Bertrang

New Ulm Schools

Superintendent

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper?
   

Starting at $4.38/week.

Subscribe Today