By Melanie Stegner

news@pctribune.com 

The MAS School Board recognized and thanked the community for the overwhelming support in approving the technology levy earlier this month. “We had a pretty successful special election. We’ve never taken one on our own. Thanks to the community for all the support,” Superintendent Chip Rankin said. The tech levy will help provide students with cutting-edge educational opportunities. It ensures access to modern technology but also strengthens the foundation for the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Members of the Gator Swim and Dive team, the Laker Girls’ Tennis team and the Laker Cross Country team were also recognized for their successful seasons with great performances within the conference and at the state level.

Rankin went on to discuss an increase in the number of students taking advantage of the free lunch program during his report. Enrollment went up four students over the month since the last meeting bringing the total to 1276 enrolled students.

An update from the activities department director Phil Johnsrud included recognition of the MAS FFA members. Becca Femrite took first place among 125 students in six different categories and the Horse Evaluation Team took a fifth-place win. “As of Friday, 406 students were registered for activities and winter sports. We had around 300 participants in the fall activities. Winter sports practices began last week,” he added.

A new opportunity for MAS students is in the works as well. “We’re going to reach another dynamic of the student population with a robotics team. We found a diamond in the rough coach in Paul Molloy. He brings tons of experience to the table. He has degrees in nuclear and electrical engineering and a minor in computer science,” stated Johnsrud. 

Lars Ossmo, Site Manager for Palmer Transportation, presented an update to the board as well about the status of the department. The main concern within the department has been the bus driver shortage. “We have an entry level driver program and licensed trainers on staff to work with. There are three to four tests to pass with the DMV prior to licensing and we help prepare for that,” he said. 

Currently there are 35 part-time bus drivers for MAS schools, fully-staffed the department should have about 40. The buses used are all diesel, but Palmer has applied for a grant to aid in the purchase of some propane buses. “The buses start at the edges of the district and pick students up working toward the school and we do the opposite in the afternoon,” Ossmo stated. 

LAEC formally requests lease 

in W.I.N. Academy in Starbuck

Superintendent Rankin gave an update on the Lakes Area Enrichment Center collaboration project. Executive Director of LAEC Kylie Baldwin sent a letter to MAS formally committing to lease negotiations for the first level of W.I.N. Academy in Starbuck. “There are several areas of unused space on the first level that can easily be utilized for their purposes,” he mentioned. “We’ve been working on a list of remodels that will need to be completed to meet licensing requirements with the state and have had tours with key stakeholders. If we can repurpose this space and get kids in there, we can attract kids from both sides of the county.” More information on the LAEC and MAS collaboration for daycare will be published in next week’s edition of the Pope County Tribune.