Lewiston-Altura Public Schools

The 2024-25 school year has begun and we are excited to bring you more information about the Levy for Learning and Bond for Buildings referendum questions that will be on the November 5, 2024, General Election ballot. Some background:

• Lewiston-Altura Public Schools is facing significant budget challenges and facilities needs that far exceed annual funding.
  
  
• On July 8, the School Board unanimously agreed to place two referendum questions on the
  Nov. 5 General Election ballot.
1. Levy for Learning - $760/student for 10 years to support classroom learning, including: teachers & staff; curriculum & classroom supplies; and extracurricular activities.
2. Bond for Buildings - $19.95 million (including bond costs) to fund classroom improvements, mechanical/electrical system improvements, and safety and security improvements.
   
   
• Last month, the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) approved the Review and Comment in support of the operating levy and bond referendum.
  
  

We remain steadfast in our commitment to communicating and engaging with all stakeholders to increase transparency and educate the community about our needs and proposed solutions.

In this issue of Cardinal Strong, you can learn the latest information about the upcoming referendum. Please get informed and make a plan to vote on or before November 5 (Early Voting begins September 20). Stay tuned for updates! Together we are “Cardinal Strong”!

The Lewiston-Altura School Board

Strong schools create strong communities. Generations of children have gone to school at L-A Public Schools and now live successful lives across the globe, and right here. Our mission is to build a caring, adaptable, respectful, determined, and successful community of learners (#GOCARDS). We all want the best for our children – all children – and strong schools are the foundation of strong communities. Grab some popcorn and enjoy the Cardinal Strong video by clicking the photo at left.

Lewiston-Altura Public Schools has launched a website to inform residents about the upcoming school referendum on the ballot this November. The dedicated website – cardinalstrong.net – provides details about the levy for learning and bond referendum for buildings questions that will be placed on the November 5 General Election ballot.

Residents can visit cardinalstrong.net to learn more about the referendum and its impact on students, teachers, families, and communities. The website includes detailed information about the district’s financial challenges, the proposed plan, the cost of the plan, and voting. Residents can also request a presentation for a group or club or connect with a school board member or school leader for a 1:1 conversation.

The the Ag2School Tax Credit is a state program that provides a 70% tax break on the cost of existing, proposed, and future school construction debt. It is automatically applied to your property tax bill; no action needed.