Austin Packer Bulletin
December 12, 2025
Supporting the Stewartville Community
Dear Community Members:
We want to express our support for the Stewartville community following the incident that occurred early this morning and led to the closure of Stewartville schools for the day. Law enforcement is continuing its investigation, and officials have shared that there is no known ongoing threat to students, staff, or the public.
We recognize that news like this can be difficult to hear, particularly when it involves a nearby school community. Our thoughts are with the students, staff, and families in Stewartville as they work through this day.
If your child has questions or is feeling unsettled, school counselors and support staff are available to help.
Thank you for your care, compassion, and partnership.
Sincerely,
Dr. Joey Page, Superintendent
- School Safety and Security. The safety and security of students and staff are our top priority in Austin Public Schools. We use the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) developed by the I Love U Guys Foundation. A uniform classroom response to an incident is a crucial component of a safe school. Weather events, fires, accidents, intruders, and other threats to student safety are scenarios that the school and district administration and staff plan for and train on.
Building Pathways, Living the Packer Profile
This is the first of a two-part article highlighting Austin Public Schools’ Grow Your Own (GYO) pathway designed for secondary students.
Austin Public Schools is expanding meaningful pathways for students who are interested in education careers, supported by a 2023 Minnesota Department of Education $750,000 Grow Your Own (GYO) grant and additional funding for an adult licensure track across partner districts. This work aligns directly with the Packer Profile, which commits to career exploration, meaningful learning experiences, and real preparation for life after graduation.
The 2022 Carlson School of Management feasibility study found that student interest in teaching grows when districts offer early exposure, mentoring, and clear financial support. The study also recommended expanding high school-level coursework to help students imagine themselves in the profession. APS has responded by offering two Riverland concurrent enrollment courses at Austin High School, giving students a chance to explore teaching while earning college credit.
Andrea Malo, Coordinator of 5 -12 Curriculum, Teacher Mentorship, and Gifted and Talented Programs, explains, “It is essential to provide students with opportunities to explore their career interests and visualize themselves in professional roles. The GYO program makes this possible by offering hands-on classroom experiences, connecting students with professionals in the field, fostering relationships with other future teachers, and providing learning opportunities in schools as well as through professional organizations.”
She adds, “By opening doors to college funding through scholarships, we are doing more than easing financial burdens; we are helping dreams take shape, turning aspirations into reality, and empowering future educators to make a lasting difference in the lives of others.”
The Packer Profile calls students to explore careers, build confidence, and pursue purpose. This pathway does precisely that.
Mower County has completed an updated draft of its Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) and is now seeking public feedback.
Like all Minnesota counties, Mower County is vulnerable to a variety of natural hazards such as tornadoes, windstorms, severe winter storms, flooding, drought, and extreme temperatures, which can threaten the loss of life and property in the county. Planning for natural disasters minimizes the impact of events that can cause vast economic loss and personal hardship.
All county residents, interested agency or organizational stakeholders are encouraged to review and offer feedback on the draft plan and proposed local mitigation actions. The review and comment period is open for a period of 15 days through December 23, 2025. See attached document for more information.
If you're a Minnesota homeowner, you may qualify for a Property Tax Refund. The refund provides property tax relief depending on your income and property taxes. For details, visit here.
Reminder for Renters!
Starting in 2024, you claim and get the Renter's Credit as part of your income tax return. You no longer file a Renter’s Property Tax Refund return (Form M1PR). For details, visit Renter’s Credit.
Generative Artificial Intelligence is changing the way we work, learn, and solve problems. At Austin Public Schools, we are embracing this innovative technology to enhance education and improve efficiency. As we explore AI’s potential, we remain fully committed to protecting our students' and staff's privacy, security, and well-being. If you haven’t yet, please review our informational website here.
- 6 tips for a healthy holiday makeover - Mayo Clinic Health System
- Mayo Clinic study reveals hidden causes of heart attacks in younger adults, especially women
- The brain-heart connection: Mayo Clinic expert explains powerful tie that works both ways
- Robotic surgery increases precision, shortens recovery
