• Press Release

    Willmar Community Supports Schools; Approves Referendum Questions


    Willmar, MN (November 7, 2023) - Willmar Public School District voters approved both funding requests on the November 7 ballot.


    Question 1 passed with 54    % (1701) yes and 46% (1429) no. The operating levy will generate approximately $3 million in annual revenue to be used to maintain class sizes and programming, notably for mental health support, as well as provide greater flexibility for student opportunities.

    Question 2 passed with 51% (1587 yes and 49% (1528) no. The $6.1 million bond levy will be used to construct a new gymnasium for the middle school to provide a more adequate physical education space for students.


    “The referendum questions passed on the Nov. 7 election will make a big difference in the learning environment for our students,” said Willmar Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Holm. “We thank all voters who made their voices heard, and we thank all of you for supporting our students, families, and hard-working staff for believing in the continued success of our thriving community.”


    What These Approvals Mean

    In addition to a middle school gymnasium that conforms to Minnesota Department of Education minimum requirements, the referendum approvals will support students and staff. With the approval of the operating levy, the district can:

    • Maintain mental health support
    • Maintain existing class sizes and make adjustments when needed
    • Maintain a broad variety of academic, co-curricular, and extracurricular programming
    • Attract and retain quality staff
    • Lead to financial stability
    • Provide the ability to enhance student opportunities when it is needed

    Willmar School Board Chair Justin Bos believes that now that the election is over, a new chapter in the future for students can begin. “We understand that not everyone voted yes on these questions. We also believe there is common ground in supporting the needs of our children, and we will build on that common ground to ensure that we all move forward together.”


    Next steps:

    • Spring 2024: Construction begins
    • Fall 2025: Occupancy
    • Communicating at every step of the process

    The community will be informed at every step of the process with regular updates from the school district. 


    For More Information

    Visit willmar.k12.mn.us for more information about Willmar Public Schools.