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About Willmar Public Schools

Our Schools & Learning Spaces

Thinking about sending your child to Willmar Public Schools? We’re so glad you’re here.

At Willmar Public Schools, we believe every student deserves a place where they feel welcomed, supported, challenged, and inspired to learn. Across our schools and programs, dedicated educators and staff work together with families and our community to help students grow academically, socially, and personally.

From early childhood through high school and beyond, our schools provide a variety of learning environments and opportunities designed to meet the unique needs of every learner. Explore our buildings and programs below to learn more about the places where our Cardinals learn, grow, and build their futures.

Elementary Schools

Kennedy Elementary, Lakeland Elementary, and Roosevelt Elementary serve students in preschool through fifth grade, providing a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Across all three schools, students experience engaging academic instruction, opportunities to develop social-emotional skills, and a supportive environment where they can discover their strengths and build confidence as learners. Dedicated staff work closely with students and families to create positive learning experiences and help every Cardinal succeed.

Secondary Schools

Willmar Middle School serves students in grades 6–8 as they transition from elementary education into the secondary years. Students have opportunities to explore academic interests, develop independence, participate in activities, and build the skills they need for success in high school and beyond.

Willmar Senior High School serves students in grades 9–12 and prepares them for their next steps, whether that means college, a career, technical training, military service, or another pathway. Students have access to a broad range of academic courses, activities, athletics, arts, career opportunities, and support services.

Alternative & Specialized Programs

Willmar Public Schools offers a variety of Alternative Learning Programs designed to provide students with educational options that meet their individual needs. Programs include the Area Learning Center (ALC), Focus House, Prairie Lakes Education Center, Lake Park School, Willmar Lakeview School, and Willmar Online. These programs provide flexible and specialized educational opportunities for students with different learning needs and circumstances.

Jefferson Learning Center

Jefferson Learning Center is home to a variety of programs that serve learners and families throughout the Willmar community. Programming includes Community Education, Adult Basic Education, Preschool, Early Childhood Family Education, and other community-focused learning opportunities.

One District, Many Places to Learn

While each Willmar Public Schools building has its own unique community, programs, and traditions, they are all connected by one shared commitment: inspiring and preparing all learners for their future in our community and the world.

Together, our schools, staff, families, and community partners create opportunities for students to learn, discover their passions, build meaningful relationships, and prepare for a Strong Today. Future Focused.

Our Story

Located in west-central Minnesota, the Willmar Public School District is an inclusive and caring partnership between students, families, the community, and staff. It’s our mission to inspire and prepare all learners for their future in our community and the world.

Being a Willmar Cardinal means being driven by high expectations and the ideals of respect, perseverance, responsibility, relationships and unity.

At Willmar Public Schools, we offer a welcoming, inclusive learning experience that’s truly one of a kind. But don’t just take our word for it, hear directly from one of our amazing families as they share what their children’s experience has been like in our schools.

Why Willmar?

Vision, Mission, and Core Values

District at a Glance

The Willmar Public School District serves more than 27,000 residents across the communities of Willmar, Blomkest, Kandiyohi, Pennock, and Svea. Our community is diverse, with nearly 40 percent of residents identifying as a race other than white.

Enrollment

3,800 students are currently enrolled in Willmar Public Schools.

New to Willmar? Enroll your student today.

Current District Demographics

American Indian: 1.4%
Asian: 4.2%
Black or African American: 14.2%
Hispanic or Latino: 45.7%
Native Hawaiian or Specific Islander: 0.1%
Other Indigenous Peoples: 0.1%
White: 31.7%
Two or More Races: 2.6%

English Learner: 26.4%
Special Education: 21.7%
Free/Reduced-Priced Meals: 65.2%
Homeless: 0.3%
Languages Spoken in Homes: 29 with the most frequent being English, Spanish, Somali, and Karen

For more information, please visit our Minnesota Report Card.