THE PROCESS
You spoke. We listened.
Bond for Buildings retains usable space.
Our schools are aging and in need of extensive repairs.
Bert Raney Elementary School (Early Childhood-Grade 5) was built in 1952 and the Middle/High School (Grades 6-12) was built in 1930.
A facilities study in the fall of 2024 included a public informational meeting (listening session) and four facilities planning focus group meetings. Stakeholders also learned about the budget and operational challenges YME School District is facing (like other school districts in Minnesota).
Attendees agreed - Yellow Medicine East schools are in need of extensive repairs and operational efficiencies.
To address all of the school district’s challenges, stakeholders developed a plan to:
Retain usable gym and classroom space.
Demolish space that is beyond its useful life.
Build new elementary and secondary school facilities.
Increase facility and operational efficiency.
Maintain a quality school for decades into the future.
The school board then commissioned a community-wide survey to sample the opinions of a broad spectrum of residents. They learned that a $75 million bond referendum was supported by 58% of respondents.
Currently, the proposal is undergoing a third-party review by the Minnesota Department of Education.
Our Students. Our Future. Our Focus.
It All Starts Here.
CLICK HERE to read all of the data, information, and meeting notes from the Facilities Focus Group process leading to the referendum question.
The History of Our School Buildings
School district leaders and community members have historically supported improving the schools to ensure a quality education for all learners and the vitality of the cities and townships that Yellow Medicine East School District serves.
The school district budgets for long-term facilities maintenance projects annually, but the age of the schools, systems, and equipment generates needs that far exceed state funding.
The table below outlines the history of our schools:
| Building | Year | Square Feet | Facility Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bert Raney Elementary School | 1952, 1959 | 58,380 SF | Early Learning-Grade 5 |
| Middle/High School | 1930, 1965, 1969, 1981, 2019 (New Gym) | 185,205 SF | Grades 6-12 |
Did You Know?
Funding for teaching and learning is currently diverted to facilities and equipment repair due to the age and poor condition of our schools? The proposed referendum will ensure funds remain in the classroom for students, teachers and staff.