We hope Brainerd lakes area residents will go to the polls on April 10 and consider supporting the upgrade to our school system. Rhoda and I with our two school aged children moved from southeast Minnesota to this area five years ago. While the catalyst was a professional opportunity, we had many reasons for not relocating (both had good jobs, happy children, great school system, faith community and many friends).
We reviewed the schools on-line and Rhoda toured Forestview. We visited with district educators and parents who were familiar with all levels of the school system. While the natural beauty with the lakes made this area very special, the schools were the tipping point.
Our daughter went to Lowell, built in 1938 for 350 students, and it's overcrowded at 417. With today's security threats, the design and office location cannot accommodate a controlled entrance. Handicap accessibility is a challenge for many elementary schools. She is now finishing her last year at Forestview Middle School. While the campus is impressive, they need a better drop off/pick up line.
Our son spent four years at the high school and while the high quality teachers were much appreciated the physical plant is in need of major improvements. Classes between campuses are a challenge to navigate within the short time between periods. The South Campus is in poor condition. There is no real auditorium for the high school and the swimming pool is undersized and not handicap accessible.
We love the Brainerd Lakes area and pray it remains competitive. By investing in our local schools we can attract and retain employees to support our economy. Regardless of how you vote, we encourage you to learn more about Blueprint 181 so you can be an informed voter.
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Adam and Rhoda Rees
Pequot Lakes
