by Dennis Dalman
In a special election April 8, voters in the St. Cloud Area School District #742 approved two referendum questions that will brighten the future of Apollo High School in St. Cloud.
Question 1 passed with a vote total of 4,017 yes votes over 2,446 no votes, and Question 2 was approved 3,503 yes votes to 2,945 no votes.
Funding approved by the election results includes up to $50 million for projects under Question 1 and up to $15 million for those under Question 2.
Question 1 makes possible upgrades at Apollo that include a security-strengthened front entryway and a combined gymnasium/storm shelter. The renovations also involve instructional spaces for health care, advanced computing program and places for auto-and-diesel mechanics programs, culinary arts and fine-arts offerings.
Question 2 allows construction of an indoor multi-purpose athletic facility. It will include a full-sized artificial-turf field and walking track and a year-round access for all students from all schools in the district, as well as use options for other residents.
St. Cloud Area School District Superintendent Laurie Putnam, along with other school officials and project advocates praised the referendums’ passage.
“We are proud to serve a community that believes in public education,” Putnam said. “Together, we are building a future where every learner feels safe, supported and ready to thrive . . . This facility will be a space for wellness, connection and community.”
Apollo Principal Justin Skaalerud was also elated.
“This investment,” he said, “strengthens safety and opens doors for students to explore who they are and what they can become.”
There are about 10,000 students enrolled in the St. Cloud Area School District, which includes the cities of St. Joseph and Clear Lake, Clearwater, Collegeville, Luxemburg, Pleasant Lake, St. Augusta, St. Cloud and Waite Park.
Apollo High School in St. Cloud will soon have a new security-strengthened entrance after voters approved two referendum questions in a special election April 8.
