Earlier this spring, Proctor Public Schools began a comprehensive facilities planning process to better understand the condition, functionality, and long-term needs of district buildings and sites. As we move through this important work, we want to provide the community with an update on our progress and share information about opportunities to stay engaged.
In May, approximately 115 community members attended the district’s first Community Engagement Meeting, where participants learned about the planning process, shared feedback, and participated in small-group discussions regarding district strengths, challenges, and priorities. We are grateful to everyone who attended and contributed their perspectives. The feedback received from students, staff, families, and community members continues to play an important role in this work.
Since that meeting, the district has completed several key assessments, including a Facility Condition Assessment, Educational Adequacy Assessment, and demographic and enrollment study. The findings from these assessments have been compiled into a comprehensive report and presented to the School Board. These studies provide valuable information about how the district facilities are currently serving students and staff, as well as potential challenges and opportunities the district may need to consider in the future. We also heard many thoughtful questions from community members during the May Community Engagement meeting. During the meeting, community members were invited to submit these questions for district leadership and the planning team. Those questions were collected and reviewed following the meeting, and the district has now published a Question and Answer document that provides answers to the questions received. The Q&A is available on the district website at https://www.proctor.k12.mn.us/page/district-facilities-assessment-information and reflects the district’s commitment to transparency, communication, and keeping the community informed throughout the planning process.
A common question asked during the first Community Engagement Meeting was, “What happens next?” The district is now transitioning into the next phase of the planning process. Over the coming months, district leadership and stakeholders will review assessment findings, identify and prioritize facility needs, and begin exploring potential options and solutions. A community task force will also be formed to help review information, provide feedback, and support the planning process moving forward. If you are interested in participating or would like more information about the commitment involved, please contact me at trohweder@proctor.k12.mn.us or (218) 520-3184.
Following the start of the school year, the district plans to host a second Community Engagement Meeting to share assessment results, provide an update on the planning process, and introduce potential options identified through the planning and task force discussions. As with the first meeting, community feedback will be an important part of the conversation.
It is important to note that this process remains focused on learning, listening, and gathering information. No decisions have been made regarding future projects or solutions. Any future recommendations will be guided by assessment data, community feedback, and the district’s commitment to being Driven by Purpose, Powered by Community to Educate, Engage, and Inspire.
We encourage community members to stay informed by visiting the district website and reviewing the FAQ document.
Additional information and future engagement opportunities will be shared as they become available.