The Byron Buzz

As we settle into the school year, it's clear that students and staff are fully engaged in their routines, and learning is already well underway. In the coming weeks, you will begin to see more information about the operating referendum vote taking place this November.

Like many school districts across the state, Byron is dealing with budgetary pressures. With per-pupil funding from the state not keeping pace with inflation and other expenses, we're facing challenges in balancing our budget. This year alone, we've seen a 28% increase in health insurance premiums, with more anticipated increases for the 2025-26 school year and potential unfunded mandates on the horizon. To address these challenges and ensure our district remains strong, we need to increase our revenue.

The proposed operating referendum represents a 10-year commitment based on a per-pupil rate. The School Board is asking residents to support a levy of $800 per student, which would generate an additional $1.9 million annually. This funding is crucial to minimize reductions in staffing and academic programs, helping us maintain the high standards that make Byron Public Schools a desirable place for families in Southeast Minnesota.

We will be holding informational meetings to discuss the referendum on October 1st at the high school and October 14th at the middle school. For more details about the referendum, please CLICK HERE.

It's worth noting that there are currently 14 districts in Minnesota facing Statutory Operating Debt, and this number is expected to double in the coming year. We are committed to ensuring the financial stability of our district and preparing for future challenges.

Thank you for your attention and support as we work together to secure a strong future for Byron Public Schools. Go Bears!

Dr. Mike Neubeck, Superintendent

Email: mike.neubeck@byron.k12.mn.us
Website: https://www.bears.byron.k12.mn.us/
Location: 630 1st Ave NW, Byron, MN, USA
Phone: 507-775-2383
Facebook: facebook.com/byronbears
Twitter: @neubecksupt

Each spring, our students are required to take the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments (MCA) as well as take the ACT and Advanced Placement tests. Byron students have consistently been above the State average and are usually very high compared to other schools in the State. The 2024 results of tests were recently released and Byron students again have excelled. More detailed information will be available in the next few weeks. The graphic below shows how the high school students represented Byron compared to the rest of the State. Individual test scores will be sent home in the next two weeks.

Beginning this fall, you are able to skip the ticket lines and purchase your tickets for any varsity activity/athletic competition online. We encourage people to use this online ticketing so we can serve you faster and more efficiently. Before attending a game, go to this link: Byron Athletic Homepage where you can pay for the tickets and download them to your phone. Skip the lines and get a better seat for the big game.

Monday, September 9 - Girls' Soccer - 7:00 Red Wing (Home)

Monday, September 9 - Volleyball - 7:15 Stewartville (Home)

Tuesday, September 10 - Volleyball - 7:15 Goodhue (Home)

Thursday, September 12 - Boys' Soccer - 7:00 at Stewartville

Thursday, September 12 - Girls' Soccer - 7:00 Stewartville (Home)

Thursday, September 12 - Volleyball - 7:00 at Lake City

Thursday, September 12 - Boys/Girls Cross Country - 4:00 at Rochester Eastwood GC

Friday, September 13 - Football Game - 7:00 at Winona

Saturday, September 14 - Girls Soccer - 12:00 at Austin

Don't Miss Out! Registration closes next week for these classes:

Byron Strong Fall Session - Starts on September 16

YEL Junior Basketball for Grades K-2 Starts on September 18 - only 3 spots left!!

Clay Class - Slab Owls Starts on September 19

Creativity Club for Adults 55+ - Clay Jewelry Class on September 19 - FREE! Only 2 spots left!

Go to College, Not Into Debt: Solutions for an Affordable Education

To sign up for this class, you MUST register online at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_RK45yyv_R2yL_dLyNg67wg

This evening class is meant to be an introduction to a classroom setting with a focus on socializing with other children in a structured environment. Your child will have a chance to meet other children, begin to learn the concepts of sharing toys, taking turns, personal care skills, and participating in story time. An approved curriculum is used to teach age-appropriate, developmental standards. While the focus is on social experiences for children, they will learn academic content through play and exploration.
Dates: Thursdays, October 3-December 12 at 5:30-7 pm

Location: Community Education Center

Ages: 3-5

Fee: $48

REGISTER