At the November 17 Rushford-Peterson School Board meeting, the board approved in a 5 to 1 vote to call for a vote on the proposed building referendum. The decision followed a lengthy discussion by the board with each member explaining their thinking before voting.
Chris Grindland shared his research on future enrollment and population projections in Fillmore County. “Based on the enrollment history since 2010, along with the demographic trends in Fillmore County, I predict the Rushford-Peterson schools will have stable enrollment over the next five years with a possible decline in 2028,” Grindland felt that after 2028 the school was likely to have enrollment issues. He was also concerned that in future years an operating referendum might be needed and wanted to be able to ask for that if needed.
Carl Schollmeier said he had the same concerns as Grindland and commented, “I like where it could go, but having to rely on open enrollment is concerning.”
Ken Sawle asked if anyone had demographics for the larger surrounding area. Sawle offered that the board shouldn’t be afraid of open enrollment; the school needs to welcome students into the school.
Superintendent Dr. Ben Bernard pointed out that the question for the board was whether the board should decide this or let the voters decide. “Are we ever going to get a better deal than this? No.” Bernard asked. Since the school can still access remaining state disaster relief funding, the $24 million building project would receive $10 million in state funding. The project would impact taxes for the next 20 years.
Bernard declared that this project would “future proof” the school. Right now the school doesn’t have space to add another elementary section if it’s needed.
Matt Helgemoe shared his concern that people had a hard time finding a place to build a home in the area. He was also concerned about the tax impact for businesses. “The last referendum [to build the school] was a no brainer; this one I struggle with. All costs are going to go up. Is this something the six of us should decide for everyone? I’m literally flipping the coin on this.”
Nancy Snyder commented, “I’m not comfortable taking the decision away from the voters. The voters should be able to decide.”
Amy Woxland agreed with Snyder, “I’m with Nancy in letting the public voice their feelings in a vote.”
As discussion wound down, Sawle commented, “We have an outstanding superintendent and I want to put my faith in this.”
After a motion to call for an election, five members voted yes to bring the question to the voters; Chris Grindland voted no. Jeff Michel was absent.
Bernard assured the board, “It will be our job to educate the voters and provide concrete numbers.” Work will begin this week to get accurate information out to the public regarding this opportunity. Throughout this, Bernard’s goal has been to make sure all the information is available so the voters can make their decisions. The vote will take place in February.
At the close of the meeting Grindland commented, “I’m proud to be a part of the school board. We can have discussions, disagree and make decisions.”
Education Interventionist Program
Teacher David Jewison and his students came to the board meeting to share some of the projects they are working on. In class, the students work on various challenges. Supplies are provided, but there are no kits. Using legos, axles, gears and motors, the students are asked to build sturdy bridges, compete in tug of wars, break axles, or create a slow motion vehicle. Perseverance is emphasized; some students have rebuilt their projects 27 times, looking for success.
Slow motion cars were built that traveled a mind numbing one foot for every 96 hours. Vehicles with lego motors were able to pull 187 pounds of weight. When the number of gears were limited for a project, one student innovated the use of pulleys and rubber bands.
The multi-grade classroom views failure as another chance to learn with students helping each other.
Other Business
In other business, the board:
- Heard the concerns of parent Chelsey Lind about a recent incident in a fifth grade classroom;
- Continued to do second and first readings of polices;
- Accepted the superintendent evaluation, noting that Bernard scored highly effective or effective in all areas;
- Welcomed Alexa Smith as the new student representative to the school board and heard her first report to the board;
- Gratefully accepted donations totalling $2,910;
- Set the board organizational meeting for January 12, 2026.
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