Building a Better Future, Phase II: Answers to FAQ, make a plan to vote
Answers to a number of Building a Better Future, Phase II frequently asked questions can be found at district279.org/BetterFuture. This week’s update includes a few of the more common questions being asked thus far:
I thought the 2022 levies addressed safety/security. What are the current needs?
The safety and security of our students, staff and community is the highest priority of the district. Last year’s community-approved technology levy funded the technology needed for safety and security improvements at district schools. The Phase II plan, if approved by voters, would address safety and security needs in relation to the physical school buildings. This includes improvements to the entrances at Maple Grove, Osseo and Park Center Senior High Schools and additional safety/security enhancements at all schools perimeter-wise in order to meet district standards as well as the latest safety/security best practices. Last month’s CCX interview with Supt. Dr. Hiel showed an example of the entrance need.
What are the school building needs of our special education, multilingual learner and gifted talented programs?
More students are a part of our specialized learning programs. An extensive five-year study determined that additional space is needed to accommodate the growth of students and any existing spaces need to be adjusted to fully accommodate the unique learning needs of our students. Right now there are many instances where dedicated space doesn’t exist so students receiving specialized services are moved from room to room throughout the day. Additionally, spaces created in the 1950s and ‘60s aren’t equipped to handle the unique learning needs of our students. Unfortunately, learning needs aren’t fully being met and inconsistent learning experiences are occurring throughout the district as a result.
Will attendance boundaries change regardless of the outcome of the election?
Yes. Attendance boundaries will change regardless of the outcome of the election:
- If approved: attendance boundaries will change at the elementary and middle school levels. This means fewer students would be impacted. Additionally, parameters would be adhered to more positively, e.g. reasonable bus rides.
- If not approved: attendance boundaries will change at the elementary, middle and high school levels. This means more students would be impacted (an estimated 6,000). Additionally, parameters may not be adhered to, e.g. longer bus rides. As these would be ineffective, changes may happen year after year.
Make a plan to vote!
- Option 1: Vote early between now and Monday, Nov. 6. You can vote early by mail or in person. To vote early by mail request an early voting ballot via the City of Brooklyn Park’s election website. To vote early in person head to Brooklyn Park City Hall’s multipurpose room at 5200 85th Ave. N between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Option 2: Vote on election day, Tuesday, Nov. 7. Go to pollfinder.sos.mn.gov to find your election day polling location. Then visit your designated polling location between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 7. Please note school is not in session this day.
Note: These voting processes apply to all Osseo Area Schools voters, including those that reside in the cities of Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Corcoran, Dayton, Maple Grove, Osseo, Plymouth and Rogers.
Get informed! Learn more by watching the short overview video, visiting district279.org/BetterFuture, emailing BetterFuture@district279.org or calling 763-391-8990.