Austin Packer Bulletin
October 9, 2026
As I listen to these stories, I am reminded that preserving strong schools is not just about maintaining facilities. It is about ensuring future generations of Austin students have the same opportunities to learn, grow, compete, perform, and create memories of their own. While we value our schools' history, we also have a responsibility to ensure today's students and those who follow have safe, functional learning environments equipped to support their success.
During these meetings, I have also had the opportunity to explain how the projects included in the November 3 bond referendum were identified. The proposed improvements focus on some of the district's highest-priority facility needs and would help ensure our schools remain safe, operational, and able to support student learning for years to come. The district identified the projects through facility assessments, planning efforts, and careful evaluation of priorities to address the most pressing needs across the district.
With Election Day on November 3 now just five weeks away, I encourage residents to take time to learn more about the proposed projects and how they would impact our schools. The district remains committed to providing factual information so residents can make informed decisions.
If you have not yet attended a referendum informational meeting, you can find a recording of the presentation on the district's referendum webpage. The site also includes project details, frequently asked questions, a detailed budget breakdown for projects across the district, and an interactive tax calculator that allows property owners to estimate the potential tax impact based on their property's value. These resources are available on the district website here.
Thank you to everyone who has attended a meeting, asked questions, watched the presentation, and engaged in these important conversations. The stories and memories that residents have shared over the past few weeks reinforce the important role our schools have played in the Austin community for generations.
As Election Day on November 3 approaches, I encourage all eligible voters to learn about the referendum, review the available resources, and make a plan to participate in the election. The future of Austin Public Schools is an important community conversation, and every vote is an opportunity to have a voice in that future.
Sincerely,
Dr. Joey Page, Superintendent
From the first days of school to graduation day, Austin Public Schools have helped shape generations of students and families. This video reflects those stories and looks ahead to our schools' future. As the community considers the upcoming referendum, we encourage everyone to learn more, ask questions, and stay informed.
Learn more here: www.austin.k12.mn.us/referendum
Mower County is tied for the highest school measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccination coverage in Minnesota at 97.6%. Our Health Services team also reports that all APS schools are in the state dashboard’s highest coverage category.
Behind these numbers is a team that answers questions, helps families/caregivers understand school health requirements, and connects them with resources. We appreciate our health staff, school administrators, and families/caregivers for working together to support healthy schools and keep students learning.
Beginning with the 2026-2027 school year, Austin High School and Ellis Middle School activities are moving to Bound, a new scheduling platform that makes it easier than ever to stay connected.
Bound will be your one-stop shop for activity calendars, schedules, tickets, scores, and more. Whether you're a student, family/caregiver, staff member, alumni, or community supporter, download the free Bound app here or here and follow Austin High School and Ellis Middle School to stay up to date throughout the year.
