*Note: Question 2 is dependent on the passing of question 1
A $10.3 million bond to build a multi-purpose space attached to the new elementary school and update the HVAC system at the high school.
Learn more about the proposed projects by clicking on the link: https://www.beaschools.org/
A $10.3 million bond to build a multi-purpose space attached to the new elementary school and update the HVAC system at the high school.
Learn more about the proposed projects by clicking on the link: https://www.beaschools.org/
Why a New School?
One of the questions I hear most often is, "Why can't we just fix the school we have?"
I understand that question. Our PK-7 building has served generations of families and holds countless memories for our community. The idea of replacing it was not something we arrived at quickly or easily. In fact, it has been years in the making.
Throughout this process, we have carefully studied our facilities, reviewed professional assessments, explored renovation options, and considered the long-term impact of every possible path forward. What we learned is that many of the challenges facing our current building are not visible when you walk through the front doors. They are behind the walls - in the plumbing, electrical systems, ventilation, accessibility features, and other infrastructure that is aging and increasingly difficult to maintain.
The reality is that the repairs needed are complex, interconnected, and expensive. Many of these projects would also require significant asbestos abatement, adding substantially to the overall cost. As we evaluated the investment required to address these non-negotiable building needs, it became clear that even after spending millions of dollars on repairs, we would still be left with a building that was not designed to meet the learning needs of today or tomorrow.
Here are some of the key facts:
• The cost of repairing building systems and infrastructure alone exceeds $40 million.
• The current floor plan cannot be redesigned in a way that effectively supports modern teaching and learning, leaving the district with too much of the wrong kind of space.
• Elevation changes throughout the building create accessibility challenges for individuals with mobility needs.
• Significant and costly asbestos abatement would be required as part of major renovation projects.
Some community members have also asked how the building reached this point. The answer is that district leaders and school boards over many years have worked hard to maintain and extend the life of the facility. Large-scale repairs have often been delayed because they are costly, disruptive to school operations, and would require disturbing asbestos-containing materials. We have continued to invest in keeping systems operational as long as possible. Today, however, we have reached a point where continuing to pour money into an aging facility is no longer the most responsible long-term investment for our taxpayers.
A new school also creates important operational efficiencies. By utilizing available space at the high school and reducing the district's overall footprint, we will have approximately 67,000 fewer square feet to heat, cool, clean, and maintain. New construction will provide better insulation, more energy-efficient systems, and learning environments filled with natural light.
Most importantly, a new school gives our students, staff, and families what repairs cannot: improved safety and security, accessible spaces for all learners, and flexible learning environments that support both current and future educational needs.
This recommendation is not about replacing memories. It is about ensuring that future generations of Blue Earth Area students have the same opportunities - and even better learning environments - than those who came before them.
I encourage you to learn more about the research, planning, and community engagement that have brought us to this point. Additional information is available at beaschools.org.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the future of Blue Earth Area Schools and for your continued commitment to our students and community.
~Mandy Fletcher
Blue Earth Area Superintendent of Schools
One of the questions I hear most often is, "Why can't we just fix the school we have?"
I understand that question. Our PK-7 building has served generations of families and holds countless memories for our community. The idea of replacing it was not something we arrived at quickly or easily. In fact, it has been years in the making.
Throughout this process, we have carefully studied our facilities, reviewed professional assessments, explored renovation options, and considered the long-term impact of every possible path forward. What we learned is that many of the challenges facing our current building are not visible when you walk through the front doors. They are behind the walls - in the plumbing, electrical systems, ventilation, accessibility features, and other infrastructure that is aging and increasingly difficult to maintain.
The reality is that the repairs needed are complex, interconnected, and expensive. Many of these projects would also require significant asbestos abatement, adding substantially to the overall cost. As we evaluated the investment required to address these non-negotiable building needs, it became clear that even after spending millions of dollars on repairs, we would still be left with a building that was not designed to meet the learning needs of today or tomorrow.
Here are some of the key facts:
• The cost of repairing building systems and infrastructure alone exceeds $40 million.
• The current floor plan cannot be redesigned in a way that effectively supports modern teaching and learning, leaving the district with too much of the wrong kind of space.
• Elevation changes throughout the building create accessibility challenges for individuals with mobility needs.
• Significant and costly asbestos abatement would be required as part of major renovation projects.
Some community members have also asked how the building reached this point. The answer is that district leaders and school boards over many years have worked hard to maintain and extend the life of the facility. Large-scale repairs have often been delayed because they are costly, disruptive to school operations, and would require disturbing asbestos-containing materials. We have continued to invest in keeping systems operational as long as possible. Today, however, we have reached a point where continuing to pour money into an aging facility is no longer the most responsible long-term investment for our taxpayers.
A new school also creates important operational efficiencies. By utilizing available space at the high school and reducing the district's overall footprint, we will have approximately 67,000 fewer square feet to heat, cool, clean, and maintain. New construction will provide better insulation, more energy-efficient systems, and learning environments filled with natural light.
Most importantly, a new school gives our students, staff, and families what repairs cannot: improved safety and security, accessible spaces for all learners, and flexible learning environments that support both current and future educational needs.
This recommendation is not about replacing memories. It is about ensuring that future generations of Blue Earth Area students have the same opportunities - and even better learning environments - than those who came before them.
I encourage you to learn more about the research, planning, and community engagement that have brought us to this point. Additional information is available at beaschools.org.
Thank you for taking the time to learn about the future of Blue Earth Area Schools and for your continued commitment to our students and community.
~Mandy Fletcher
Blue Earth Area Superintendent of Schools
A $63.31 million referendum to build a new PreK-6 grade elementary school and repurpose space at the high school to serve 7th grade students.
Learn more about the proposed projects by clicking on the link: https://www.beaschools.org/
Learn more about the proposed projects by clicking on the link: https://www.beaschools.org/
Big hair, bigger shoulder pads, and the absolute best soundtrack. 🎸 Take me back to the 1987-1988 school year!
While we were busy worrying about what was happening at Blue Earth Frost Winnebago (BEFW) High School, we were blasting Whitney Houston, Def Leppard, and INXS on our Walkmans. Who remembers trying to tease their bangs just right before the morning bell? 🙋♂️ Class of ['88/all alumni], where you at?
#TBT #ThrowbackThursday #1988 #80sBaby #HighSchoolMemories #BackInTheDay #bucpride
While we were busy worrying about what was happening at Blue Earth Frost Winnebago (BEFW) High School, we were blasting Whitney Houston, Def Leppard, and INXS on our Walkmans. Who remembers trying to tease their bangs just right before the morning bell? 🙋♂️ Class of ['88/all alumni], where you at?
#TBT #ThrowbackThursday #1988 #80sBaby #HighSchoolMemories #BackInTheDay #bucpride
On August 11, 2026 Blue Earth Area School District voters will be asked to consider 2 bond referendum questions.
For more information, click on this link
https://www.beaschools.org/
For more information, click on this link
https://www.beaschools.org/
🎓 BEA Alumni Spotlight: Lisa Ertman (Class of 2003)
From student to healthcare provider, Lisa Ertman’s journey is a testament to the lasting impact of Buc Pride. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Family Nurse Practitioner, Lisa is dedicated to caring for our region. Whether substitute teaching or cheering on her children at BEA activities, she continues to invest in the future of our students.
Read more to check out the full story on our website here:
https://www.beaschools.org/page/alumni-spotlight
#BEAAlumni #BucPride #OnceABucAlwaysABuc #BlueEarthArea
From student to healthcare provider, Lisa Ertman’s journey is a testament to the lasting impact of Buc Pride. As a Doctor of Nursing Practice and Family Nurse Practitioner, Lisa is dedicated to caring for our region. Whether substitute teaching or cheering on her children at BEA activities, she continues to invest in the future of our students.
Read more to check out the full story on our website here:
https://www.beaschools.org/page/alumni-spotlight
#BEAAlumni #BucPride #OnceABucAlwaysABuc #BlueEarthArea
Some of the referendum’s proposed projects include a secure entrance, a new traffic plan for buses, vehicles and pedestrians, and less square footage than the existing school (which means savings on operation costs).
Click the link to learn about ALL of the proposed projects.
https://www.beaschools.org/
Click the link to learn about ALL of the proposed projects.
https://www.beaschools.org/
If the referendum questions are approved, over 46% of the bond referendum’s total principal and interest will be covered by the State of Minnesota’s Ag2School Tax Credit.
Click here to find the tax impact for your property:
https://www.beaschools.org/
Click here to find the tax impact for your property:
https://www.beaschools.org/
Join Our Team!
Blue Earth Area Schools is seeking dedicated paraprofessionals for the 2026–27 school year at both school sites.
Interested applicants should complete the Non-Teaching Employment Application, available at:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NQtGER6CxcaDg-qJI1Hjld4sT7kwCjGG/view
Completed applications can be submitted to High School Principal Ty Sturtz or K–7 Principal Dave Dressler.
Make a difference every day by supporting students and helping them succeed!
Learn more about our schools at beaschools.org.
Blue Earth Area Schools is seeking dedicated paraprofessionals for the 2026–27 school year at both school sites.
Interested applicants should complete the Non-Teaching Employment Application, available at:
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NQtGER6CxcaDg-qJI1Hjld4sT7kwCjGG/view
Completed applications can be submitted to High School Principal Ty Sturtz or K–7 Principal Dave Dressler.
Make a difference every day by supporting students and helping them succeed!
Learn more about our schools at beaschools.org.
What will the referendum cost you? Click on the link below to see a chart that shows the annual tax impact for the two bond questions.
https://www.beaschools.org/
https://www.beaschools.org/
Monday, June 8, BEA School Board Meeting
Click this link to watch the livestream of this evening's Blue Earth Area School Board meeting at 6:00:
https://boxcast.tv/view/school-board-meeting-june-8-2026-ftbgf2ziyta4uzc0mjuo
Click this link to watch the livestream of this evening's Blue Earth Area School Board meeting at 6:00:
https://boxcast.tv/view/school-board-meeting-june-8-2026-ftbgf2ziyta4uzc0mjuo
The restrooms throughout the building have failing fixtures and do not meet accessibility requirements.
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
🏌️♀️⛳ KATELYN IS STATE BOUND! ⛳🏌️♀️
We are thrilled to announce that Katelyn Storbeck is heading to the State Girls Golf Tournament! Let's show our immense Buccaneer pride as she prepares to compete against the best in the state. 🚀
Here are the details to cheer her on:
🗓️ Date: Tuesday, June 9th
📍 Location: Ridges at Sand Creek (Jordan, MN)
Join us in wishing Katelyn the absolute best of luck on the course! Bring home that hardware! 🏆
#BlueEarthArea #BEABuccaneers #GirlsGolf #StateBound #BuccaneerPride #bucpride
We are thrilled to announce that Katelyn Storbeck is heading to the State Girls Golf Tournament! Let's show our immense Buccaneer pride as she prepares to compete against the best in the state. 🚀
Here are the details to cheer her on:
🗓️ Date: Tuesday, June 9th
📍 Location: Ridges at Sand Creek (Jordan, MN)
Join us in wishing Katelyn the absolute best of luck on the course! Bring home that hardware! 🏆
#BlueEarthArea #BEABuccaneers #GirlsGolf #StateBound #BuccaneerPride #bucpride
The school’s multiple levels and spread-out elevators make accessibility a challenge for people with mobility issues.
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
☕💙 One of the highlights of the school year was the launch of Mrs. Moore's LINKS Class Coffee Shop!
What started as an opportunity to deliver coffee, tea, and hot cocoa to staff quickly became a favorite part of the day for our students. They absolutely loved taking ownership of the coffee shop and were especially excited to create their own special spritzers to enjoy.
These photos capture some of our happy coffee shop workers, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the organized "madness" of inventory counting, drink preparation, and beverage deliveries throughout the building!
The coffee shop provided a fun and meaningful way for students to practice important functional and independent living skills, including inventory management, following routine steps, money handling, collaboration, communication, and delivery tasks. Most importantly, it helped build confidence, responsibility, and independence through real-world experiences.
Thank you to our staff for supporting this meaningful opportunity. We are so proud of our hardworking coffee shop crew and all they accomplished this year! 👏
#BEABucPride
What started as an opportunity to deliver coffee, tea, and hot cocoa to staff quickly became a favorite part of the day for our students. They absolutely loved taking ownership of the coffee shop and were especially excited to create their own special spritzers to enjoy.
These photos capture some of our happy coffee shop workers, along with a behind-the-scenes look at the organized "madness" of inventory counting, drink preparation, and beverage deliveries throughout the building!
The coffee shop provided a fun and meaningful way for students to practice important functional and independent living skills, including inventory management, following routine steps, money handling, collaboration, communication, and delivery tasks. Most importantly, it helped build confidence, responsibility, and independence through real-world experiences.
Thank you to our staff for supporting this meaningful opportunity. We are so proud of our hardworking coffee shop crew and all they accomplished this year! 👏
#BEABucPride
The classrooms do not have the needed electrical capacity to support technology needs.
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
🏃♀️💨 KYANNAH IS STATE BOUND! 💨🏃♀️
We are so proud to announce that Kyannah Brandt is heading to the State Track and Field Meet in the 100m Dash! 🚀 Her incredible time of 12.77 in the qualifier secured her spot among the best in the state.
Here are the details for Kyannah's State race:
🗓️ Date: Starting Thursday, June 4th
📍 Location: St. Michael-Albertville High School
Let's send Kyannah off with all our Buccaneer spirit!
Go Bucs!
#BlueEarthArea #BEABuccaneers #TrackAndField #StateBound #BuccaneerPride #100mDash #bucpride
We are so proud to announce that Kyannah Brandt is heading to the State Track and Field Meet in the 100m Dash! 🚀 Her incredible time of 12.77 in the qualifier secured her spot among the best in the state.
Here are the details for Kyannah's State race:
🗓️ Date: Starting Thursday, June 4th
📍 Location: St. Michael-Albertville High School
Let's send Kyannah off with all our Buccaneer spirit!
Go Bucs!
#BlueEarthArea #BEABuccaneers #TrackAndField #StateBound #BuccaneerPride #100mDash #bucpride
The pipes have burst on multiple occasions,
causing damage throughout the building.
Here is another picture of damage from burst pipes.
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
causing damage throughout the building.
Here is another picture of damage from burst pipes.
Click the link for more information
https://www.beaschools.org/
Join us tonight at the community information meeting to learn more about the facility bond referendum.
https://www.beaschools.org/
https://www.beaschools.org/
