TCU Le Center K8 May News

As we head into the final weeks of another incredible school year, our building is filled with excitement, celebration, and anticipation for all that is ahead. From field trips and concerts to Kindergarten and 8th grade graduations, May is one of the busiest and most meaningful times of the year. It is always amazing to see how much our students have grown academically, socially, and emotionally since the first day of school. We are so proud of our students, grateful for our staff, and thankful for the continued support of our families and community.

This month is also especially important for the future of TCU schools as our community prepares for the May 12 referendum vote. This decision will help shape the future of our facilities and learning environments for years to come. We strongly encourage every eligible community member to take time to learn about the proposal, ask questions, and most importantly — get out and vote. Whether through early voting or on Election Day, your voice matters and your participation is an important part of supporting the future of our schools and students.

Thank you for your continued partnership, support, and Titan Pride as we finish the school year strong together!

Take Care,

Mr. Jeff Eppen, Principal

1. Didn’t we already replace part of the Le Center roof?

Yes. The Le Center building has over 100,000 square feet of roofing, which is maintained and replaced in phases over time. In the previous bond, approximately 44,000 square feet was replaced. This proposal continues that planned cycle by replacing about 30,000 additional square feet and making repairs to sections that still have remaining life.

2. Why invest in collaborative learning spaces?

Most of the investment at Le Center is focused on building systems such as roofing, HVAC, electrical, and other infrastructure. A smaller portion of the project is dedicated to improving how existing spaces are used.

The proposed updates focus on two areas that are already used for flexible or overflow purposes but were not originally designed for instruction. These improvements help make those spaces more functional and better suited for learning.

3. Can we see the designs for these spaces?

Conceptual renderings have been shared to give a general idea of the proposed updates. Final designs of learning spaces and site improvements are completed only if voters approve the referendum. If approved, the design process will include input from staff and users, and all work will be completed within the approved project budget.

Q. Is the district planning to close this school?

A. No. The Le Center building remains a key part of the district’s long-term plan and continues to receive significant investment.

Q. What about the auditorium and Primary Center?

A. The auditorium is planned to be removed at a later date and converted to green space. The Primary Center will continue to be used for programs, training, and district needs.

• Election Day: Tuesday, May 12, 2026

• Voting location available on the referendum website

• Early In-Person Voting: through May 11

• TCU District Office (Door #1W) at the Montgomery PreK–8 building

• Monday–Friday, 7AM–3:30PM

• Extended Hours for Early In-Person Voting:

• TCU District Office (Door #1W) at the Montgomery PreK–8 building

• Last Saturday option is May 9, 8AM–1P

Learn more, view full project details, voting information, and use the tax calculator: https://bit.ly/tcu-ref26

As part of the May 12, 2026 referendum, Le Center PreK–8 would receive updates focused on maintaining the building and improving learning spaces.

Proposal Highlights:

• ADA-accessible restroom renovations

• ADA playground enhancements

• Conversion of an existing computer lab into a flexible classroom

• Roof and exterior door replacements

• Updated HVAC and building systems

• Collaborative learning commons in underutilized space

• Replace tennis courts

Why This Matters

Many of these updates focus on keeping the building working as it should. Systems like heating, ventilation, and roofing have been maintained over time but are now at the point where larger updates are needed. These improvements help:

• Keep classrooms functioning without disruptions

• Support safe and accessible spaces for all students

• Create more flexible learning areas for today’s teaching needs

Continued Investment in Le Center

Le Center PreK–8 is a key part of the district’s long-term plan. Since 2019, nearly $10 million has already been invested in improvements at this building. This proposal would add more than $11 million, continuing that commitment.

Tri-City United Public Schools is calling for a special election on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Voters will consider a single ballot question to authorize general obligation bonds not to exceed $39,990,000 for facility infrastructure and learning environment improvements.

Developed through a four-year, community-driven process, the plan uses retiring debt and state tax credits to help minimize the impact on taxpayers. For example, the estimated average increase for a $300,000 home is $5.69 per month, and agricultural landowners benefit from the 70% Ag2School tax credit.

Jenny is a true team player who consistently goes far above and beyond her standard job responsibilities. She dedicates significant time and energy to supporting her team both directly and indirectly, while balancing a full plate with professionalism and grace. She ensures that no student slips through the cracks, often wearing many hats at once to meet a wide range of needs. Jenny knows all of our students well and works tirelessly to support their plans, adjust to changing needs, and respond daily with care and flexibility. Even when facing challenges and constant movement, she leads with steadiness and composure, making it look easy even when it is not. Her commitment and impact are deeply valued and truly deserving of recognition.

Theo consistently goes above and beyond to ensure our school is safe and clean. He is always willing to take on any task with a positive attitude and a smile, making him a true pleasure to work with. The staff he serves deeply appreciate his hard work and dedication. Theo plays an important role in creating a safe and comfortable learning environment for students, and his impact is felt throughout the building every day. He never complains, even during especially demanding times, and continues to show up with reliability, kindness, and a positive spirit that never wavers.

Teacher Appreciation week is May 4th-8th! We have such amazing staff members in the Le Center building and across the district! These educators show up each and every day with a positive attitude and create memorable experiences for all students. I am so honored to work with this amazing group each and every day.

Monday, May 4th was School Lunch Hero Day! We have an amazing Food Services Team! Happy School Lunch Hero Day!

School Nurses Day was on Tuesday, May 5th. Thank you, Nurse Candi, for everything you do for our school! Your positivity and kindness are unmatched and we are so lucky to have you on our team!

Principal's Day was May 1st! Students and staff alike showed their appreciation by decorating the school with portraits of Mr. Eppen that they colored.

BLANKETS

TCU Titan Blankets are for sale again this school year. Contact a PTO member or watch for pop-up sales around the community. Blankets feature Titian colors and the TCU logo, making them perfect for those fall sports games.

Summer school information was sent home this week, and we would love to know if your child will be joining us! Please return the form as soon as possible. As a reminder summer school will operate Monday-Thursday, July 6th-30th from 8am-12pm.

Please note: Breakfast, lunch, and transportation will be provided for all students attending summer school.

We’re excited for the opportunity to continue learning and growing with your child this summer!
Thank you! If you have additional questions about summer school, please feel free to contact Vanessa Chmiel at vchmiel@tcu2905.us

Congratulations to our Circuit Surfers who took on the world! They fought hard against some very skilled teams.

Circuit Surfers (Jake Goettl, Landon Ballman, AJ Munguia, Vincent Carpenter, Colton Claffey) took 9th place in skills.

Happy Tuesday, Tri City United ISD 2905 family. I have some exciting news for you. Ninja Anywhere is coming to us to host an unforgettable ninja event on 05/27/2026. I have included a link to their website so you can watch an awesome highlight video of their activities. Please take a couple minutes to watch it and then scroll down to complete their waiver. A waiver is REQUIRED to participate in the upcoming events and I definitely don't want to be the one who has to inform you/your child that he/she can not participate because they don't have a waiver completed!

CLICK BELOW TO LEARN ABOUT OUR NINJA EVENT

Step 1) Watch this YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jklh7qosg1U

Step 2) Complete a waiver for your child by selecting "adult and child": English: https://app.cleverwaiver.com/render/templateByRefId/66968aa4931267aa3b25f53a?groupId=ekfeEPvS Spanish: https://app.cleverwaiver.com/render/templateByRefId/61270cd739c9c8c1bd24253b?groupId=ekfeEPvS

Step 3) Order your Ninja Anywhere swag (t-shirts, pants, etc.) to wear at the event: https://ninjaanywhere.store/. NOTICE: Clothing orders take 2-3 weeks to print and ship. Be conscious of this time delay if you are trying to get your swag by your event date!

Thank you. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions about our upcoming ninja event. Have a wonderful rest of your day and keep spreading smiles!

Back-to-school shopping is not just about buying supplies. It is about navigating the list, comparing brands, and making multiple store runs. With 1st Day School Supplies, that entire process disappears. Order online in minutes, and everything arrives in one box, exactly as requested by your teacher. Order today!

We’re excited to share the Salvation Army's Back-to-School Supplies Event for students in Le Sueur County (grades K–12). Please see the attached flyer for full details (English & Spanish).

Event Details

• Dates: August 4th & 5th

• Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

• Location: Minnesota Valley Action Council, 125 E Minnesota St, Le Center, MN 56057

What’s new this year:
This year’s event will be a simple handout of school supplies. Families will pick up pre-packed supplies rather than a full "resource fair", selecting items on-site.

Important:

Applications must be submitted by May 15 in order to reserve supplies. Quantities are based on completed online submissions, so early sign-up is strongly encouraged. Please use the link here to submit your application (English or Spanish).

· English: Salvation Army's Back-to-School Supplies Event 2026 - 2027 – Fill out form

· Spanish/Espanol: Salvation Army's Evento de Útiles para el Regreso a la Escuela 2026-2027 – Fill out

If you have any questions regarding the application or distribution, feel free to reach out to MVAC at (507) 357-4289. We look forward to helping your student get ready for the next school year!

Thank you,
The Salvation Army – Back-to-School Events Team

May 8: Baby Animal Day

May 8: Battle of the Books

May 11: Kindergarten Graduation Pictures

May 13: 3rd Grade Field Trip

May 13: Kindergarten Field Trip

May 13: 7th Grade Field Trip

May 14: 2nd Grade Field Trip

May 15: Grades 5-8 Titan Dash

May 15: Grades K-4 Race Day

May 18: District Band Concert @ PAC

May 20: Kickoff to Summer Event

May 21: District Choir Concert @ PAC

May 22: Kindergarten Graduation

May 25: Memorial Day - No School

May 27: End of Year Celebration

May 28: 8th Grade Breakfast and Graduation 7:30-9:00

May 28: Last Day of School!

Symptoms of seasonal allergies and colds are upon us. Just a reminder for all... the health office does NOT provide cough drops or any other medications. Medications, whether over the counter or prescription, should not be brought to school unless you have a medication administration at school form completed and the medication is brought to the health office to be stored and administered by the health office per TCU school board policy. If you have any questions or concerns please contact the Health Office at 507-364-0156.

Congratulations to our April Students of the Month. They were celebrated at our PBIS assembly in May.

April Academic Students of the Month

April Titan Pride & Leadership Students of the Month

District 5-8 Band Concert

• When: Monday, May 18th
• 5-6 @ 6:00 PM
• 7-8 @ 7:15 PM
• Where: High School PAC

District 5-8 Choir Concert

• When: Thursday, May 21st
• 5-6 @ 6:00 PM
• 7-8 @ 7:00 PM
• Where: High School PAC

Parents/Guardians are always welcome to join us as a lunch guest, but we have a few requests from our Food Service Department. Please call before 10:00AM to be added to the daily lunch count. When you arrive please stop in the office with payment and to pick up a visitor badge and meal pass. If you are bringing food from outside of the building you will need to check in and pick up a visitor pass.

Please make sure to notify the school office if your child is absent or planning on being absent. You can call the office at 507.357.6802 or email at ahardel@tcu2905.us.

May 25: No School - Memorial Day

Website: https://www.tcu2905.us/page/4182
Location: 150 West Tyrone Street, Le Center, MN, USA
Phone: 507-357-6802
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TCULeCenterK8/
Twitter: @jeffeppen