By Dr. Michael Rivard
School Superintendent
The Sartell-St. Stephen school district is asking voters to consider a two-question referendum this coming Feb. 11 to address critical facility needs and to ensure the continued excellence of our schools.
This decision is pivotal for our students, staff and the broader community as we work together to maintain and improve the spaces where learning, collaboration and growth happen every day.
At its core, this referendum is about more than just buildings and maintenance. It’s about continuing to invest in the spaces where our school district began and where students continue to dream big, discover their passions and prepare for their futures. It’s also about preserving the quality of life in our community. Great schools and top-tier facilities attract families and businesses while fostering a sense of pride among residents.
Ballot Question 1. It involves Riverview Intermediate School Indoor Air Quality/HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning).
Riverview Intermediate School, a cornerstone of our community since it opened as our first high school in 1969, is in critical need of updates to its HVAC system.
The current system dates back to the building’s original construction.
The ballot proposal addresses maintenance needs, ensuring classrooms and spaces where temperatures are controlled for a comfortable and productive learning environment.
The total is $21.93 million in school building bonds to fund indoor air quality upgrades and deferred maintenance at Riverview Intermediate School.
Ballot Question 2. It involves Sartell High School’s Physical Education/Outdoor Athletic Facilities
The space is part of Phase 2 of the Facilities Master Plan (2015).
If Question 1 is approved, voters may also consider an additional referendum question that includes the construction of a multi-purpose athletic facility for physical-education classes, track and field, football, lacrosse and soccer.
The proposed facility would feature artificial turf, allowing for increased durability and extended use throughout the year by our students and community organizations.
The total is $8.485 million in school building bonds to support outdoor improvements at Sartell High School.
Learn More
The district remains committed to providing detailed information to help residents make an informed decision. For details (including a Tax Impact Calculator) please visit www.isd748.org/VOTE2025. Community members are encouraged to visit our website, attend informational forums and reach out with questions. Two upcoming sessions are:
Tuesday, Dec. 10 at 4:30 p.m. at Sartell High School.
Thursday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Sartell Senior Connection in the Sartell Community Center
Why It Matters
We ask you to consider these questions carefully as you head to the polls on Feb. 11. This is an opportunity to come together as a community to ensure our schools remain places where every student has the opportunity to thrive.
