Referendum – Informational Meetings
I’d like to “thank all” of our EV-W community stakeholders that participated in the October referendum meetings that took place in Eden Valley and Watkins. We had approximately 30 people in attendance at each meeting that opened with introductions and an overview of the work, feedback, and progress conducted by task force members, listening session participants, and the coordinating efforts provided by our construction manager and architect.
As we get closer to the general election date of Tuesday, Nov. 6, I would encourage everyone to get out and vote. If you have any hesitation, concerns, or questions regarding the school district’s referendum to provide safety, security, and improved infrastructure, please call me. Each of our buildings are in desperate need of timely replacement of HVAC equipment, roofs, mechanical and electrical upgrades, parking lots, secured entry, ADA compliant restrooms, and fire protection in Watkins. Each building has a detailed list of needs, floor plans, and budget provided on the school district’s website.
Year after year, the Eden Valley-Watkins School District and staff continues to exceed local, regional, and state expectations on assessment scores, graduation rates, academic and college credit opportunities, multiple foreign language options, numerous and varied activities and athletics that draw high participation rates, growing and expanding experiences in the trades, CTE, agriculture, and FFA. Just in the past two years, the school board approved and then added one full time equivalent in language arts and another in social studies, one tech integrationist, and also doubled our school readiness programming and staffing. All of these student opportunities, expanding programs, and lifetime experiences are being offered while still keeping our student fees, district levy, and expenditures the lowest of all surrounding districts.
It’s time to secure our buildings, invest in our aging facilities, and prepare for the next generation of students that will continue the tradition of excellence that draws so many families into our EV-W community and schools.
Go EAGLES.
LEEA Award Recipients
It was a great pleasure to take part in the 27th Annual Leaders of Educational Excellence Awards banquet held at the Rivers Edge Center in St. Cloud. Each year, St. Cloud Resource Training and Solutions sponsors the event to recognize outstanding educator performances throughout Minnesota. Please commend fourth grade teacher, Tammy Winter and former math instructor, Mary Ann Holdvogt on being selected by their peers as the district’s recipients for the Leadership in Educational Excellence Award. LEEA recognition is presented to staff that have gone above and beyond in providing quality teaching experiences and opportunities for their students. Both Tammy and Mary Ann received a plaque and certificate at the Oct. 24 event which recognizes the commitment, sacrifice, and innovative instruction required to be an effective educator. We commend Tammy and Mary Ann, and all of our EV-W instructors for having a positive impact on our students, schools and communities.
Senior Spotlight
The EV-W School District would like to recognize Emma Schultz, daughter of Nicole and Cory. Emma is an honor student, three-sport athlete, and frequently demonstrates maturity and leadership beyond her years. Her unquestioned work ethic and commitment to success assures for a bright future. Following high school graduation, Emma plans on attending Bethel or Gustavus Adolphus to pursue a degree in developmental disabilities. The EV-W administration, faculty and staff are extremely proud of Emma and her many accomplishments. Congratulations.
Mark Messman, Superintendent
