our challenges
Financial instability is impacting student learning
Albany Area Schools has a long history of student excellence and a community that is willing to invest in our students’ futures. But declining enrollment, the rising cost of education, and destabilized district finances are straining our ability to deliver the quality education we strive for. An increasingly competitive educational environment has led to fewer resources for students and rising pressure on class sizes.
We rank 303 out of 329 Minnesota school
districts in per-pupil funding
Albany Area Schools receives less per-pupil funding than roughly 92% of districts in the state. In the past year alone, we cut more than $1 million from our budget — including staff and faculty positions, bus routes, and contracts. Without the help of the proposed operating levy, we expect to cut an additional $2 million from our annual budget next year, and those cuts are expected to grow.
Our students are a point of pride in our community
The students at Albany Area Schools model excellence in academics, athletics and music. Our dedicated staff, academic programming and wide range of opportunities give students the support they need to grow, thrive, and be ready for life after graduation. Our community takes pride in our students and wants to see our schools continue to be the best in the area. With additional revenue, we could continue to provide a sturdy foundation for student achievement.
What happens if the referendum doesn’t pass?
If the operating levy fails, the district will make $2 million in cuts to student services and educational programming ahead of the 2027-28 school year. These cuts would drastically change the way Albany Area Schools delivers education, and the impact would be felt across all our schools and among all teachers, staff and students.
Fewer teacher and staff positions
Larger class sizes
Reduced curriculum and programming at all grade levels
Less academic support and fewer mental health services
Reduced career and technical education
We can’t cut our way to long-term success.
Our students represent the future of our community, and funding support from our community will support our efforts to continue preparing the next generation of critical thinkers and lifelong learners.