MAPS Connection District Newsletter

Each month, we'll share a message from Supt. Peterson about Maps by the Numbers. Read the first piece HERE.

MAPS' schools are required by state law to hold 11 safety drills with students each year: 5 fire drills, 5 lockdown drills, and 1 severe weather drill. At MAPS, we use the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) from I Love U Guys, which uses simple, action-based terms so students and staff know exactly what to do to stay safe. You may hear some of this language from your child when they talk about drills.

The first action we are highlighting is Evacuate, which is used for fire drills.

Evacuate is the protocol used to move students and staff from one location to a different location in or out of the building. An on-site evacuation is conducted usually because of a mechanical failure that would disrupt the school day, such as a power outage. An off-site evacuation may be necessary when it’s no longer safe to stay in the building.

Washington Elementary has been recognized as a 2025–26 Minnesota School of Excellence by the Minnesota Elementary School Principals’ Association (MESPA). This honor is awarded to schools that complete a rigorous one- to two-year process of self-reflection and peer review, measuring progress against six nationally recognized standards of effective schools. The designation highlights Washington’s commitment to high expectations, inclusive practices, and strong partnerships with families and the community.

Please read the full announcement, which includes what stood out about their application. For more information about the award, please visit www.mespa.net/soe.

Congratulations to our Washington Wildcats!

We’re excited to celebrate the success of our MAPS students on the 2025 Seal of Biliteracy exam. In total, 70 students participated and 60 (more than 85%) earned college credit. Together, they accumulated 134 college semester credits, reflecting their advanced language proficiency.

All Mankato Area Public Schools athletic and activity events will begin using GoFan for digital ticketing.

That means no more cash at the gate—tickets will be sold online or at the door using a debit or credit card.

Here’s how to get started:

✅ Visit www.gofan.co or download the GoFan App
✅ Search for Mankato East or Mankato West
✅ Buy tickets ahead of time or right at the gate on your phone
✅ Download the GoFan app for easy access and ticket storage

U.S. News & World Report released its 2025–26 Best High Schools list, and we’re thrilled to share that Mankato West is #23 and Mankato East is #37 in Minnesota—placing both schools among the top statewide. Thank you to our students, staff, and families for making MAPS a great place to learn!

https://www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/minnesota/rankings

Do you know a teacher or staff member in Mankato Area Public Schools who goes above and beyond to inspire, support, and make a difference in students’ lives? The Golden Apple Award celebrates outstanding educators and staff who bring learning to life and create a positive impact every day. Families are encouraged to submit nominations and help us honor the incredible MAPS staff who make our schools thrive!

Here's the nomination form: https://www.keyc.com/2019/05/24/golden-apple-award-nominations/.

Join us for our One-Stop Shop on October 7, 5:30–7:00 p.m. at the Center for Learning at 15 Map Drive in Mankato. Families can get information on applying for the 2026-27 lottery for Mankato Area Public Schools Focus Schools, learn about Community Education pre-K activities, and explore preschool options at our Center for Learning—all in one convenient visit. Staff will be available to answer questions, guide you through forms, and connect you with resources. We look forward to welcoming new and returning families!

Tuesday, September 2, 2025

• 5:30 p.m. - School Board Meeting - Mankato Room

Wednesday, September 10, 2025

• 2 hour Early Release

Monday, September 15, 2025

• 5:30 p.m. - School Board Meeting - Mankato Room

Tuesday, October 7, 2025

• Focus School, Pre K, Kindergarten, Community Education One Stop Shop Night - Center for Learning - 5:30-7 pm

• School year begins with investment for 175 days - Free Press
• Mankato East HS stadium, track closed for maintenance- KEYC 9/2/2025
• Mankato East and West have lower attendance rates than state average per report- KEYC 8/29/25
• School construction projects prioritize security - KEYC 8/28/2025
• Extra patrols around Mankato area schools following Minneapolis school shooting - KEYC 8/27/2025

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