Mankato
Mankato Area Public Schools District News
September 6th, 2024
Message from Superintendent Peterson
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year in MAPS! We've had a great first week and are excited for all that is to come over the next several months together. The start of the year always brings a flurry of activity and a range of emotions for students, staff, and families. If there is anything MAPS can help with, don't hesitate to contact your school. The MAPS staff is amazing and ready to do whatever it takes to support you and your family. Have a nice weekend!
First Days of School
This week, students once again filled the hallways of MAPS campuses, ready to learn and excited about the possibilities that the new year holds.
We are so excited to welcome our #MAPSready students back and are ready to see all the great things they will do over this next year!
School Choice Coming Fall 2025
Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, Jefferson Elementary and Rosa Parks Elementary will transition into choice schools. These schools will join Bridges Community School as additional choices for elementary students and families.
What is a choice school?
Choice schools are an innovative approach to public education, offering specialized programs focused on themes with a unique curricular emphasis. They provide students with hands-on, immersive experiences and tailored learning opportunities.
Where are we at in the choice school process?
The first survey was given to staff and families at Rosa Parks, Jefferson, and Bridges for input about choice school key characteristics.
Input groups at each site have been formed and they will work through survey results, share ideas and make a plan that supports students and creates a positive experience for all.
Want to stay updated on the choice school process? Look for this section of the district newsletter.
A New Start in High School
This year, MAPS started the school year a little different in high school. On Tuesday, September 3, 9th graders and new to district students had the high schools all to themselves. It was a day spent connecting to the school staff, Link Crew, and their peers. They also had the chance to run through their school schedule. Attendance on this day was 95% at East High School and 96% at West High School. It was a great day!
Digital Tickets for Athletic Events
NEW TICKET Online Ticketing APP!
Visit https://gofan.co/ or download the GOFAN app available for both Android and iOS devices. Then follow instructions to set up your account.
THIS YEAR tickets will also be available on site for cash purchase and MAPS will transition completely over to digital tickets NEXT YEAR.
- Ticket prices are $10.00 for adults
- $5.00 for students (K-12) and seniors 62+ who live outside the school district boundary area
- Seniors 62+ who live inside the school district boundary area can get in FREE with the VIP Gold Card.
Call the Mankato East (507-207-3628) or Mankato West (507-207-3921) Activities Office with questions.
Mankato Area Public Schools - VIP Gold Card
This card is exclusively for those who are 62 years old or older and live within school district #77 boundaries. It is a great way to enjoy no-cost admission to concerts, athletic and more!
If you would like a VIP Gold Card and fit the criteria above, simply contact Mankato Area Public Schools Central Office at 507-387-1868 or stop in the MAPS Office at 10 Civic Center Plaza to get your card.
*Exclusions include away events, tournaments, and section or state play.
Bond Construction Projects
Check in with the MAPS Bond Construction webpage and the time lapse of DMMS gym and pool.
MAPS Ambassador Program
Community members who are interested in joining the program must complete an application which closes on September 30th.
Read more about MAPS Ambassadors HERE.
Tax Benefits for Families - Save Receipts for School Supplies
These benefits can reduce parents’/caregivers' taxes to increase their refund, but is only available for those who keep their receipts. Purchases for most school supplies, field trips, and musical instruments for school band are eligible.
Most Minnesota parents qualify for the K-12 subtraction, which reduces their taxable income. Parents/Caregivers under certain income limits may also qualify for the K-12 credit, which can refund up to 75% of their costs – even who do not owe any taxes.
Community Education - Early Childhood Screening
The purpose of Early Childhood Screening is to:
- Increase parent understanding of child’s health, development and school readiness
- Identify conditions and risk factors that may affect a child’s ability to learn and develop,
- make referrals for further assessment Link families to parenting resources and preventive health care
MAPS Highlights
School Board Appreciation Month
Every day, Mankato Area Public Schools students benefit from the leadership and vision of our dedicated school board members. September is Minnesota School Board Recognition Month, so let's take a moment to thank these committed individuals who devote countless hours each week to guiding our district. Your leadership makes a difference!
Join the MAPS Team - PARAEDUCATORS NEEDED!
Our team of caring, passionate, and committed professionals wants you!
Applying for available positions is simple, fast and secure. Our online application system allows you to start and save an application, submitting it when you are sure that it’s complete.
Calendar Reminders
Monday, September 16, 2024
5:30 p.m. - School Board Meeting - Mankato Room
Following Meeting - Work Session- Minnesota Valley Room
Wednesday, September 18th, 2024
Early Release
Friday, September 27th, 2024
Mankato East and Mankato West Homecoming (see school calendars for details)
Monday, October 7, 2024
5:30 p.m. - School Board Meeting - Mankato Room
MAPS in the Media
Mankato teams enter new season in different spots - Free Press 8/22/24
Project Success expanding into Mankato’s eighth grade classrooms - Free Press 8/30/24
Mankato’s first day of school brings changes - KEYC 9/3/24
Some secure entrances ready for students, district talks attendance in Back to School Report - Free Press 9/3/24
Students buzzing with excitement on first day; new secure entrances at some of the buildings - Free Press 9/5/24
Mankato West to honor new Hall of Famers - Free Press 9/5/24
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