By Mark Messman Superintendent EV-W Schools EV-W bond referendum
Greater Minnesota voters approved 13 of 19 bond requests at the Tuesday, Nov. 6, general election. This 68 percent approval rate for rural school facility bonds still falls short of the Twin Cities Metro Area passage rate of 83 percent. Fortunately, our EV-W facility bond was one of the 13 passed in rural Minnesota and it allows us to move forward with necessary security and infrastructure improvements.
I’m extremely happy for the students, staff, and school community of Eden Valley-Watkins, and humbled to be a member of this amazing organization. At times, we are all faced with varied and difficult financial obligations, yet our communities stepped up to re-invest in our school facilities and ensure the security of our students for decades to come. I’m just so proud of our school district and surrounding communities for the value and investment they’ve placed on education and our EV-W students. We are incredibly grateful to our communities for their support of our 1,000 students and more than 130 staff through the recent yes votes. Strong schools make strong communities, and we will work hard to make the most of each and every dollar invested in our schools. Thank you Eden
Valley-Watkins. The school district will now consult with its financial experts, construction manager, and architect to develop a timeline and coordinate the next steps.
2018 election review
This November, voters went to the polls to choose a new Governor as well as all other constitutional officers and all 134 members of the Minnesota House of Representatives. While the entire State Senate was not up for election, there was a special election to replace former State Senator, Michelle Fischbach who stepped down to run for Lieutenant Governor. Here is a breakdown of the election outcome.
Minnesotans went to the polls to elect a new governor after incumbent Governor Mark Dayton decided not to run for a third term. Democratic Congressman Tim Walz defeated Republican Hennepin County Commissioner Jeff Johnson by a vote of 54 percent to 42 percent.
For the third time in six years the House will have a new majority party, with DFLers winning control of the chamber by picking up 18 house districts previously controlled by Republicans and holding on to all their incumbents. Heading into the election, House Republicans held a majority of 77-57, which now means Democrats will have a majority of 75-59. The change in majority party will likely mean that Rep. Melissa Hortman the current minority leader, will ascend to the position of Speaker of the House.
In the Senate, Republicans had a 34-33 majority over their Democrat counterparts, but following the open Senate seat, the chamber was split 33-33. Following the special election for this seat, the Senate Republicans will maintain their 34-33 majority.
American education week
The National Education Association was one of the creators and original sponsors of American Education Week. The first observance of American Education Week occurred
Dec. 4-10, 1921, and was co-sponsored by the NEA and American Legion. American Education Week is observed in all communities annually for the purpose of informing the public of the accomplishments and service of the public schools and its educators. Typically, American education week is always celebrated the week prior to the week of Thanksgiving.
We’ll be recognizing the accomplishments and service of Eden Valley-Watkins educators at the following scheduled events.
• Monday, Nov. 12 7:15 a.m.– Muffins with Mom at Watkins Elementary School
• Tuesday, Nov. 13 7:15 a.m– Muffins with Mom at EV-W
Elementary School
• Wednesday, Nov. 14 7:30 a.m.– EV-W Staff Appreciation Breakfast at EV-W HS
• Thursday, Nov. 15 7:15 a.m.– Doughnuts with Dad at Watkins Elementary
• Friday, Nov. 16 7:15 a.m.– Doughnuts with Dad at Eden
Valley Elementary
I’m extremely proud of our EV-W teaching staff, and witness firsthand the positive impact they have on our students. Teachers make a lasting impression on the lives of children, and many times these teachers don’t see the impact of their work on kids, families, and the community. Please, take a moment to share your testimonies with staff that have made a difference in your life.
Senior spotlight
The EV-W School District would like to recognize Alex Foehrenbacher, son of Kelly and Don. Alex has a strong academic record, participates in three sports, and served as one of the senior leaders on the Eagle football team. He demonstrates quality characteristics of kindness, empathy, and cooperation while serving as a role model to our student body. Following high school graduation, Alex plans on attending South Dakota State or Bemidji State to pursue a degree in education or sports marketing. The EV-W administration, faculty and staff are extremely proud of Alex and his many accomplishments. Congratulations.