Mankato Area Public Schools Renaming Lincoln Community Center to Lincoln Community School

Mankato Area Public Schools will rename Lincoln Community Center to Lincoln Community School, a change that more accurately reflects the building’s current role as an educational institution and its continued evolution in serving students, families, and the community.

The name recognizes Lincoln’s transformation over the past century while honoring its longstanding place in the community. Originally established as a neighborhood school, the facility later expanded its role as a civic hub. Today, Lincoln has evolved into a true community school, bringing together education, integrated services, and community partnerships to support student success and family well-being.

“Lincoln has always been more than a building,” said Audra Nissen Boyer, MAPS Director of Community Education. “This name change reflects what Lincoln has become a place where learning, family support, and community partnerships come together to meet the needs of our students. Calling it Lincoln Community School better represents the important work happening there every day.”

The name also aligns with the district’s mission of Excellence, Equity, Empowerment. Every Student. Every Day. By identifying the facility as a school, the district believes the new name will provide greater clarity for families, community partners, and state agencies while reinforcing Lincoln’s role as an innovative model for integrated student and family support.

The MAPS School Board approved the name change following Policy 810 regarding the naming and renaming of district facilities at its last board meeting on July 13th. The district will complete the necessary state reporting and local coordination to implement the change. The change affects only the facility’s name. Lincoln will continue to provide the educational programs, integrated services, and community partnerships that have made it a vital resource for students and families.