MAPS School Board Holds Public Work Session for Secondary Redesign Initiative

The Mankato Area Public Schools (MAPS) School Board recently held a public work session focused on the District’s Secondary Redesign initiative, an effort to ensure students are prepared for their future, not our past. The redesign process aims to modernize learning in Mankato’s middle and high schools to reflect the skills and experiences students need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The work session featured presentations from district leaders and secondary school administrators who shared emerging themes from early community and staff engagement. The initiative is not about  updating facilities, it is about modernizing the instructional model, the “how” and “why” of teaching and learning, to better meet the needs of tomorrow’s graduates.

“The skills required for success in careers, college, and life look vastly different today than they did even ten years ago. Reflecting this new reality, students, staff, and families across MAPS made it clear in our strategic planning process last year that they want learning to look and feel different,” said Patrick Baker, School Board Member. “We’re proud of the success of our schools, and we’re equally committed to ensuring that learning continues to evolve to meet the needs of tomorrow’s graduates.”

During the session, district staff shared initial findings from surveys and needs assessments conducted with students, staff, and families this fall. The early feedback revealed several consistent priorities across stakeholder groups:

• Student Voice and Experience: A desire for students to be active participants in their own learning.
• Real-World Relevance: Expanding career and college pathways, including more opportunities for students to engage in work-based learning outside the school, earn college credits, industry certifications, and associate degrees.
• Flexibility: Increased flexibility in scheduling and learning options for both students and staff.
• Staff Support: Additional time and resources for collaboration and professional development.
• Partnerships: Strong interest in growing community and business partnerships to create meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities.

Board members emphasized that this early input represents just the beginning of the process. District leaders are now developing a comprehensive community engagement plan to invite further participation from families, students, staff, and community partners in the coming months.

“The feedback we’ve received so far is invaluable,” Baker added. “Our community’s voices will help shape the future of education in Mankato and ensure our schools continue to provide exceptional learning experiences for every student.”

For more information contact Melanie Helling, Director of Communications at mhelli1@isd77.org or call (507)387-1868.