Family August 2025 Knight Line

The November 4 ballot will include two referendum questions to support the district’s day-to-day operations (levy) and important facility projects (bond). The requested funding will provide the needed funding to maintain programming and staff and complete safety and security, technology, building maintenance, and academic space projects.

The need for voter-approved funding to support our school district is not new. As a result of unsuccessful requests in recent years, the district has made over $7.3 million in reductions. As a result, we have larger classes, fewer programs, and limited access to important support services. Furthermore, we have delayed numerous facility improvement projects that are needed to maintain our schools and support student learning.

The district will be sharing a lot of information in the coming weeks regarding the referendum and the importance of these two ballot questions. Please take the time to become an informed voter. You can visit the referendum page at STMA.K12.MN.US/VOTE2025. There will be several informational meetings for you to hear from the District firsthand and get your questions answered. Please consider attending one of these important meetings.

Most importantly, exercise your right to vote on or before November 4.

Join Us for Community Informational Sessions:

• Wednesday, 09/10 6:00 P.M.

• Thursday, 09/18 6:00 P.M.

• Friday, 09/19 9:00 A.M.

• Tuesday, 10/07 6:00 P.M.

• Saturday, 10/11 10:00 A.M.

• Monday, 10/27 6:00 P.M.

All will be held in the STMA Middle School West Auditorium at 11343 50th St NE Albertville MN.

Do you know someone who is seeking an exciting career opportunity that is very rewarding? We have a number of open positions for caring and competent individuals who want to make a positive impact on students and be part of a dynamic team.

We are hosting a job fair on August 19 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. in the STMA Middle School West Media Center.

Visit the Employment webpage to learn more and apply for a rewarding position serving students.

Planning ahead is key to a smooth school year, and recent adjustments will help STMA maintain important traditions while making the most of new legislative flexibility.

FY2026: The STMA School Board has approved a slight modification to the FY2026 calendar, moving graduation to May 29. There are no changes for students in grades PK–11.

FY2027: Due to legislation passed during the 2025 session, the FY2027 calendar has been adjusted. The new law allows schools to start on September 1—prior to Labor Day—which means the 2026–2027 school year will start on September 1 and end on June 4.

All students receive one free breakfast and lunch daily under the Universal Meals legislation. À la carte items, “seconds,” and single milks are available for an additional charge.

Even with free meals, we strongly encourage all families to complete an Application for Educational Benefits. Approved applications provide discounts on activities, athletics, ACT testing, Chromebook insurance, field trips, and internet access—plus generate critical funding for our schools. Income limits are higher than many expect, so it’s worth applying even if you’re unsure you qualify. Only one application per family is needed each year. When approved for educational benefits, it’s a win-win: your household may save money, and our schools gain resources to help every student thrive.

Check out the video and apply today at the district office, your child’s school, or on the Food and Nutrition webpage. For questions, email glenr@mystma.org.

STMA has an e-learning plan, called the STMA FLEX Learning Plan, that allows teaching and learning to continue when school is canceled due to inclement weather. Under Minnesota Statutes, section 120A.414, schools may use up to five e-learning days per year. At STMA, the first two weather-related cancellations will be designated as no-school days. Any additional cancellations may be designated as e-learning days. Additional information can also be found on the Flex Learning webpage.