Survey Feedback (as of 1/07)

Doing the right things…

For the right reasons…

The right way!

What are your ideas for improving the school facilities in Duluth?

What would you like this project to accomplish?

What are your recommendations for making the planning process successful?

Other comments or feedback?

Update each school (in part) to bring better teaching/learning efficiencies

Bring the number of school bldg's in line with the realistic needs of today and the future.

Stick to the plan you develop.

Good idea!

One high school, 2 middle schools, keep neighborhood schools K-6th grade

Little children need to be closer to home, go to school with kids in their neighborhood - building community.  Lower cost, more choice in unique classes.

Sell present Central to home developers - great view - should bring big money, taxes for city

You can't please everyone - do what's best for the kids.

Re:  Student health and safety - provide for nutritious food/meals - eliminate pop/junk in vending machines.

Make sure the buildings are safe, in good condition, updated where necessary, clean, updated in technologies, equipment, furniture, etc.  Class size low.

Educate children on the three "R's" but also on life's everyday issues and educate them to live and function in today's world.  Can do it with the proper facilities and proper learning environment.

Use common everyday citizen's input, use union labor, they are trained and educated to deliver quality work and on time, if not under time expected for projects.

Thank you for asking common everyday citizens for this input.

Make sure schools are safe and in good condition and class sizes are kept low.

Add ECFE City-Wide Advisory Committee to list of community outreach groups.

Facilities should provide continuity and stability for students and educators.

Improved, efficient use of facilities with careful thought about the future.

Carefully listen to and coordinate with groups that currently use school facilities - especially Early Childhood programs.

Public education is moving to a Birth-12 mentality.  Keep this in mind when planning use of facilities.

Make sure rooms are flexible (many possible uses) and have adequate storage, outlets, windows…  Make sure there is adequate money to keep facilities maintained.  An Early Childhood Center with a mix of general education students and student with special needs can be together - some districts offer childcare centers open to the staff and public within school sites.  This results in better use of staff (less time driving around the city) and reduces costs.

A comment that Dr. Dixon made at the end of the meeting about communicating to the community about how funding works in MN and what our local options for actions are was right on - I would love to see this going on (and be a part of it)!

I would like to see this project continue to take several perspectives into account.  Listening to parents, principals, teachers, students and other community members will create schools that will cater to and suit everyone involved.

It sounds like the bare bones in terms of process are right where they need to be - assessing our schools objectively in order to create efficient and flexible learning environments for students.

As a future teacher (and current college student in the community), I am really interested in this process.  I would love to help wherever possible.

The indepth study looks great!

_____ this by numbers which are logical to your ____with FACTS!

Provide a ______by Keith Dixon.

Make this survey easier to detect/see in newspaper

Keeping them clean, handicap accessible, more stuent involvement in respect to school property.

To give students pride and respect for things that don't directly belong to them.

Students and parents should be more involved and also a thorough and continued follow-through.

Reduce the school facility's ecological footprint in our city through the implementation of the guidelines set forth in the resolution regarding planning for a sustainable community.  Make this resolution part of the ISD709 student curriculum to enable future generations with the knowledge to follow through.

Bring the cost of operating the system within the citizens ability to pay for it through taxation alone, while educating all citizens, including students, to help reduce global warming and be better prepared for the up-coming effects of peak oil.

After the planning phase is completed, follow through with the school closings required regardless of neighborhood opposition there is to defeat the plan.

Where possible, work with city planners who have also been made aware of the resolution regarding planning for sustainable community.

Maintenance - don't let things go so long.  Sell CAB building - look at other districts - they don't have a building this extravagant.  Use the money to improve our buildings.

School buildings that are well-maintained and safe for our students.

Form a plan and stick with it.

Change your image and make wise decisions.

Turn down the heat in all buildings

Reduce money

Decisions to be based on data - projected needs and dollars.

Remember to do our homework when hiring companies to build and develop.  Don't always take the lowest bidder!

Consider the population of Duluth that live in poverty.  Remember that most of these citizens have no access to transportation to meetings.  Try to hold meetings in areas that are easily accessible by bus or within walking distance from high poverty schools.

It took 20 years to get the fields built at Central High School that were to be built when the school first opened.  Do not build unless there are adequate facilities built.

Keep the facilities open after school and work with the non-profit sector to keep youth busy after school.  Keep High Schools in the 750 to 1200 range for kids to have a chance to participate.

Junior High's need lots of opportunity and small class size for opportunity.

I believe it should be a little more modest in any future new facilities we build than we have been in the last 25 years.  There is too much emphasis on sports.

We need to reject being controlled by the state and federal governments.  School districts should be truly "independent".

Think outside the box.  Rather than selling facilities, how about leasing them to developers to generate long-term income streams.

Like the focus on the greater good - video and technology education.

Respect for public schools - a good, respectful process

Help people learn that change is not necessarily bad.  Respect that people don't embrace change well.  How can the committee help people deal with change.

Come to "lunch hours" at manufacturing places to explain and listen.  Not just COTC and community groups of note.

Flexible environments that are adaptable for class size, learning styles and community usage and involvement.

Prepare our district for collaborations of all sorts in the future.

Take the time to listen and act responsibly and keep community involvement high - they pay for this stuff!

Thank you so much!

The district should develop a long range plan to build new, modern schools which embrace technology and provide flexibility for Duluth's changing demographics.  In addition, these buildings should be constructed so as to encourage community use during times when students are typically not present.  Create more opportunities (both inside and outside of the classroom) for students in the form expanded class offerings, non-traditional modes of delivery, community service projects and so forth.

New, efficient, flexible buildings would provide savings for the district in maintenance costs while providing a state of the art learning environment for students as well as a community/neighborhood focal point.  More and varied opportunities would better prepare our students for the 21st century.  In addition to the core competencies required in standard subject areas, all students upon graduation should be computer literate and should have participated in at least one community oriented project.

New buildings should be the result of collaborative planning between the district, the city and the community.  The entire community should be involved in the planning of new buildings regardless of the geographic location of the building.  More and varied opportunities need to be developed collaboratively between students, teachers, parents, administration and the community.  A standing committee with active representation from each of these areas would be an excellent way to oversee the planning process.

The planning process to date has been well thought out and has encouraged community participation.  This is path which, in the past, seems to have been not well travelled in Duluth.  Than you for the time and effort in getting the entire community involved and keep up the good work!

Schools need to be neighborhood based.  The vitality of the city needs neighbor schools for cohesiveness, safety and the quality.  When we try to put mega schools together, parents opt for other alternatives and the district suffers as well as the city with loss of revenue and participation by kids and parents.  Do a better job of maintaining athletic fields and facilities.   School campuses must be safe for students and staff.

Keep schools geographic in our city and review maintainence of all facilities before closures or relocations.

Coop planning sessions with city, county and state officials on what is the right way to obtain a true neighborhood school.  Reassign priorities to staff to maintain fields.  Utilize summer student hires to enhance duties and get work done that is not getting done now.  Initiate a study of all schools for safety using consultant who is trained to recognize faults.  Bring in outside person for this audit.

Cirus aircraft training at STC

Along with the report on the facilities deficiencies, we also need a report on best practices and what research says about the effect of such things as class size, school size, transportation time, etc. on student achievement.

Early childhood - We have 15-20 people who support the classrooms (not doing direct services) to house all together.  We need offices for them.

Our facilities and our system need to facilitate the maximum amount of parent, teacher, volunteer and teacher aid contact time with each student, with a goal of knowing where each student is and then building on that.  Therefore we need efficient schools, less bussing and flexible buildings that allow for teacher creativity.

Keep meeting, keep communicating.  Have a committee member or the distict publicist write an article for the News Tribune as a progress report each week.

Build two new high schools, each school to have a new name, team mascot and colors so everyone can be unhappy together.

Present high schools become middle schools.

Present middle schools become grade schools.

Each teacher displaced so we all have something in common.  Tax to the limit for the schools so we can start to pay for the schools now.

Safer drop off and pick up points.  Good indoor air, access to the latest technology, natural lighting, comfortable desks, healthy food choices, no pop in vending machines, good food at lunch time, green options where possible, look at biothermal heating for buildings.

Ample outdoor space for students. A healthy environment for learning.

Involve students, teachers, parents in the process.

None

Renewable energy resources.  Solar PV upgrades.  Develop systems large enough overprovide for other schools.

Owning is better than renting.  This is becoming more true in energy production as well.  Energy costs could be eliminated.  Strong possibility for federal dollars to help build energy production capabilities in schools.  Private interests as well.  Rent your roof space.

The planning process seems open to the public and well thought out.  Continue to engage the community.

Diversify.

Once its decided which buildings will remain set up a long term plan to continue to improve them per state standards.

Provide consistent structure for the foreseeable future.  A structure that will enhance education with the best use of limited dollars.

Include people on the steering committees that are experienced, pragmatic, and able to make decisions.  People involved to obstruct or delay action should be asked to step down. Accept the fact that most citizens will not respond until something affects them negatively.  Keep from blaming the public for its lack of involvement when the inevitable happens.  Make decisions that are sound but not necessarily popular.

Buildings are one thing - how about a complete study of curriculum and its value especially secondary.

Build a new comprehensive 9-12 building to consolidate all three existing high schools/Secondary Technical Center into one new high school.  Sell East and HOCHS buildings and move administration/alternative school into the Central High School buildings.  Use Denfeld as middle school.

Modern classrooms equipped with technology ready classrooms for all Duluth high school students. Eliminate overcrowded classrooms.  Larger pool of students makes it practical to offer core and elective classes not currently available.

Continue public education sessions.  Identify costs of current system versus desired system.  Investigate feasibility of block scheduling for high school.

Tear down MacArthur, build a new elementary school with new playgrounds.  Change Denfeld into a junior high, same with East.  Build huge new high school on hill but make sure there is enough room for everyone to play sports and that the classrooms are not like college - huge ones in auditoriums.  Keep class size under 30.

MacArthur needs to be replaced.

Build new schools like Superior did.

Do it now, not in 5 years.

Schools need to be neighborhood based.  The vitality of the city needs neighborhood schools for cohesiveness, safety and life quality.  When we try to put mega schools together parents opt for alternatives. Do a better job of maintaining athletic fields and facilities.  School campuses must be safe for students and staff.

Keep schools geographic in our city and review maintainance of all facilities before closures or relocations.

Cooperative planning sessions with city, county and state officials on what is the right way to obtain a true neighborhood school.  Reassign priorities to staff to maintain fields.  Use summer student hires to enhance duties.  Initiate a study of all schools for safety using consultant who is trained to recognize faults.  Bring in outside person for audit.

None.

Develop a long range plan to build new, modern schools which embrace technology and provide flexibility for changing demographics.  Buildings should be constructed to encourage community use when students aren't present. Create more opportunities inside and outside the classroom for students in the form of expanded class offerings, non-traditional modes of delivery, community service projects, etc.

New, efficient, flexible buildings would provide savings in maintenance costs while providing a state of the art learning environment.  More and vaired opportunities would better prepare our students for the 21st century.  In addition to core competencies all students upon graduation should be computer literate and have participated in at least one community oriented project.

New buildings should be the result of collaborative planning between the district, city and community.  More and varied opportunities need to be developed collaboratively between students, teachers, parents, administration and the community.

The planning process to date has been well thought out and has encouraged community participation.  Thank you for the time and effort in getting the entire community involved and keep up the good work!

Update and enhance current facilities.

focus on keeping current facilities open, safe and up to date.

Keep things simple to keep costs down.  Can we do fundraisers?  Alumni drives like colleges do?

None.

Optimum sized schools should support full-time specialists.

Allocated teacher resources should benefit students through student/teacher contract time rather than wasted professional resources driving to separate buildings.  Higher achievement in the classroom often reflects relationship building between staff, students and parents.  Multiple building assignment minimizes opportunities.

Building plans and staffing should be based upon optimum use of professional time.  This means elementary schools should be aligned so specialists are full time.  Job assignments need to happen before the end of the year so planning and professional development can happen prior to the start of the following year.

Principals need to be responsible for communicating to HR regarding staffing needs by specifically outslining the number of classrooms serviced.

Comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and make all of our schools accessible. Improve the air quality at our sites by updating heating and ventilation systems.  Clean air and good ventilation are a must for staff and student health and productivity.  Provide a clean learning environment for our students.

Close Lincoln Middle School.  It has too few students and can't offer all the electives the other middle schools do.  Make it a priority to have smaller class sizes.  We need to make sure classes are 30 or less.  Create two high schools.

Smaller class sizes.  A balanced budget.

Close Lincoln Middle School.  Smaller class sizes.  Balanced diversity throughout the district, economic and racial diversity.

Please make smaller class sizes a priority in the planning.

How do we create a solution that ensures quality educational spaces for our children now and 20-30 years into the future?

How do we create a solution that makes our facilities cost-effective and efficient?

How do we create a solution that builds community and brings us together?

Other comments or feedback?

I like the method the school district is currently using.

My concern is that our facilities need to provide for greater efficiency in learning to allow for future changes in the educational process.   Let's get to the next level of education.

I think that this process has really tried to look at all grade levels simultaneously - which is a great thing.  By acknowledging that different levels have different needs, I think the plan will have a good chance of success.

I was pleased how well the superintendent's process method when developing the school district budget.  It seemed more streamlined and had more community support.  I feel confident that this process will be successful with this plan.

Educational delivery methods built for flexibility also needs to include alternative options and credits to fulfill graduation requirements.  Exercise the local decision making capability the MDE has entrusted the district with.

Plan for net gain and show community how the improved system will benefit a future work force.

Energy savings ie wind farm

Please check with Special Education to get #s of early childhood special education students who are being served in school buildings and # of ECSE staff who require office space and storage space for materials.

Large movement space in schools that have early childhood programs.  Need small gym where we have 1/2 day or full day programming.

By kdg we're already remediating for lack of vocabulary, inability to converse, damaging social environments.  Our early childhood programs now take what's left in the building.

Bathrooms in early childhood programs.  Storage space needs are great in early childhood. Space for teachers.

Early Childhood rooms need to be larger than what we have now because we eat and rest in our rooms.  Be able to control for sound in our rooms - babies don't need school announcements.

Adequate early childhood space for each of the EC programs.

Consider the demand for Early Childhood programs - get the early childhood numbers.

Please continue to plan for modest class sizes.  I would like to see average classroom sizes expand, and all buildings make gains in "public" space that reflect modern uses.

I don't know - this seems to be the central, long-unanswered question.

I really appreciate the depth of this study.  It is difficult not to let our emotions get in the way but this is a strong, objective beginning.

We need to look at what we would do if we could do whatever we want (now that we know what the problems are).

Look at replacing (not necessarily consolidating, but perhaps) the most costly schools to repair.

Don't give us a "we're going to close this and lose this" type plan. Give us a "Look at all the great things we can do" plan.  How will the changes benefit all of us but particularly students.

I would like to see ECFE stay neighborhood based - people are unlikely to travel further distances with small children.

I would like to see ECFE 2 times a week cause my little girl really loves coming here.  I would love to have it back to twice a week, Tuesdays and Thursdays.

What questions do you need answered or information do you need to help you select an option?

Over the next several weeks our goal is to get to one option.  Of the options presented, which one(s) do you believe would serve Duluth best?

From your view, are there any modifications we should consider to improve the options?

Other comments or feedback?

Red.  I would be interested if West End students/citizens would prefer a new high school or middle school.

Thank you Dr. Dixon, School Board & Johnson Controls.  I think your presentation was excellent & give people of Duluth

Two high school option - Red or White

Class size is too large - teachers have little or no time to work with each individual student - teaching is geared to bring struggling students up to "no child left behind" standard.  Advanced students are not challenged.

I would like to see more learning side numbers.  (Teacher-student ratio) Class size is my #1 concern.  One HS vs two: would class size be the same or close to the same for either option?Changing the number of schools or size of schools won’t affect class size.  Under any of the three options the student to teacher ratio used by the school district to help determine numbers of teachers remains the same.

White:  I like the idea of the middle schools moving to new locations "Fresh Start" for this age group.  I do like what Mr. Dixon said about 1 HS bringing everyone together, but I am concerned about my child being amongst 3000 vs 1500 w/two high schools.

Homecroft - I would like to see some changes/improvements made to classrooms on the right side of the building.  Last year rm 102 was up to 80 degrees quite often.  My kid complained often of not being able to think/work.  I brought in fans to cool it off. I went into a class room the other day and it was so dreary.  I said to the teacher, she should open the shades, but she said it gets too bright or warm.  Maybe new shades or some type of material on the windows to keep the rooms from getting so hot.

I wish there was some way to know how the academics would change.  New programs, activities,etc. Concern of two middle schools -  has there been any thought of three?  I am impressed with the thought that has gone into this.  I'm also pleased the community is allowed to be involved.  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs and services.

A decision as soon as possible.

Look at all three options, tweek them and make a good decision as a community.  Put it to a vote.

More research on what is best for the students.

Class size lowered to 17-20.

White plan

I appreciate the thoroughness of the process - it makes sense.

White

Either the Red or the White Option

The high school issue is my biggest concern.  Whether it is politically correct to say or not, there will always be competition within the city.  If you put all of those students in the same school, you may be trying to bring the community together.  However, reality may well be that violence risk will increase.

Committments to smaller class size.  A physical prototype sample "model" of what a new high school will look like.

I like red & white because the linear nature of our city but I'm not opposed to blue.  They all seem good and well thought out.  I worry about drop-out rates in a bigger school, more violence, less identity.

Build the buildings as environmentally efficient buildings.  "That's our future".  Small class sizes are a major priority.

Thank you!

Red or White look very good.  Very leary of 1 HS - too big without enough opportunity for kids.  Not only sports, but in academics.

Continue to focus on programming & student/teacher ratio.  We have 1 child in gr 3 & 1 child in gr 5.  We moved our 5th grader to another school because he was getting lost in too many students with the clear expectation of a very competent teacher that he needed to fit into the set expectation of teaching to 30 students.  We value public education and want it to thrive in Duluth, not just for our kids, but always.  Its refreshing to feel hopeful (again) that this long-range plan will move forward to reality.

Thank you for this process - very well thoughtout and workable for our future.

Red plan - costs least, achieves the goals.

Incorporate public transportation into all middle and high schools right from the start!  Save energy, parking hassels and make it more equitable for all students.  Work with DTA.

Any way you look at it transportation seems to be a real $ issue.  Option blue would give HS students the best options for academic classes as well as opportunities for drama etc., but I also worry about the competition for athletics and academic scholarships.  Some students benefit more from smaller High Schools, they get more of a change to shine and excell.

Option Blue - 1st choice. Option White - 2nd choice (parking is a real concern).

Will the closing of certain schools be fully utilized? Ex. Central HS has cabinets and other interior structures that came from Old Central.  Utilizing what we already have cn save $ and they are structually more sound than what we can replace them with today.  Environmentally to recycle is better.

I hope science classrooms are improved.

White

YMCA Collaboration?

How about providing facilities that welcome community members to workout, swim, etc, to use facilities for a monthly/yearly fee? Beyond community school education?  Community partnerships, community education programs and before and after school opportunities are important to our students and families.  During the planning process, Johnson Controls talked with community education staff and representatives from outside organizations to determine needs.  The three options include opportunities to continue to partner with the community and provide community education in the schools.

Where W. High SchoolMiddle School would be and which option would Western neighborhoods support. ISD 709 and Johnson Controls have been meeting with the City of Duluth Planning Office for several months discussing and reviewing potential sites for these school locations.  We currently have three or four possible sites identified for each of the TBD school locations.  We think it prudent to have multiple possibilities for either negotiating reasons or in case potential locations fall through for whatever reason.  The reason the site locations have not yet been made public is that when it comes to negotiating for potential sites for new schools, it is best to not go public with possible sites as it could raise the cost for taxpayers.  As soon as it is possible to share site locations, they will be immediately shared with the community.

Red.  Blue option - high school too large for student opportunities.

Awesome, thorough, well thought out plans!  A heart felt Thank you!!

You did a good job letting us ask questions and you answered those questions very well.  Thank you for involving us.

Any option would be ok.  I would like to see 1 HS but on the Arrowhead site (isn't that 1/2 between Pequayam & Fond du lac)?

Let the public know how many students really would use the schools.  IE, enrollment = 450, that's K-5 the 60, 80, 100 + pre schoolers in that school would be in addition.

I wish an elementary school could be within walking distance to UMD or CSS.  These students (who walked to Chester Park or Woodland) really gave those students a valuable service.  Colleges are a valuable resource to the school community.

Probably the red plan

I think a dress code would be a good idea.

School names?  Lake Superior East, Lake Superior Middle School East, Lake Superior High School West, Lake Superior Mioddle School West.  In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs, services and even school names.

The red plan seems to be the best fit.

Would you ever consider a dress code, slacks/skirts, white/colored shirts.  I'm glad this is progressing to where the community gets over the West, Central, East boundary issue.  In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs and services.

Thank you for making this process work so well.  I appreciate the good listening and good leadership.   Very well thought through plans.  I really am impressed with this process and the options that have been proposed.  parents and kids are anxious to know when their schools will change.  Figuring out a time line will help a lot.  When we state ‘No changes until the fall of 2009’ we mean that the earliest any of our schools will be physically closed would be the fall of 2009.  We have also stated that the earliest any High School would be closed would be the fall of 2010.  The District and Johnson Controls wanted to be respectful of staff and parents, to give them time to prepare for change.  Once a plan has been adopted, a detailed construction and transition plan will be adopted.

Red or White are great.  Blue make the high school way too big.  Plus, Ordean is too big for an elementary school.

I like the Red and White options.  3000 students is too many.  I think a lot of kids would get lost in such a big school.  People who could afford to, would take their students out of public schools, so we would lose a lot of students that way.

How will you get a marketable price for the vacant lots and buildings if potential buyers know we don't need those properties?  Do we know if there is a market for these sites and buidlings?  (was answered during the question & answer time).  District properties were analyzed by Ramsland & Vigen, Inc., a nationally recognized real estate appraisal and consulting firm with offices in Duluth.  Their analysis is available in the Property Value Report on this website.  Johnson Controls and the district would continue to seek out expert assistance to market and sell properties.

Please - I need to understand the risks and challenges and opportunities in having a HS student body of 3,000 - almost almost twice the state average.  The ability of a school to provide a quality education to students is based in part on available resources, program design, access to experienced teachers, the services provided to students who need extra help, and the ability of the school to organize itself to provide a sense of community to students.  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.

I have long been a proponent of one high school, but did not realize that it put the size of the student body so far above the average.  I believe that the community would benefit by bringing all diversity under one roof.

Thank you for your very thoughtful process.  It's been great planning and I think will be successful.

You have done a great job!  Very thorough. Thank you.  Please don't go with the Blue option.  One HS would be too large - too many kids. Research shows that kids learn better in smaller schools, smaller classrooms thanks!

White option.  However, I am very concerned about the division it may create in Duluth. I think it would be imperative that programs would be put in place that integrate the communities across our long skinny city.  Not unlike how Nettleton & Homecroft come together & share resources.  Homecroft students attend Nettleton for day of science labs w/Nettleton students & Vice Versa.  Also working with the after-school programming - creating district wide opportunities for youth that could bring kids from the district together.  I am most concerned about the youth in Central Hillside that seem most to loose thier connection to community that they now have through Nettleton & Central.  They may not have the ability to stay after school for a program because they won't have transportation home, where as in their neighborhood they could walk.  Transportation to/from after school programming needs to be provided with this model.  Equity program is an issue that needs sensitve attention.

As to your question about the Board passing the plan and then moving forware with the levy.  Yes, go forward if you can.  Try to keep it out of a referendum. We need to move forward.

What is the primary driving force(s) behind decisions made (ie. money, quality of education, etc)?  What will be done differently in regard to extra curricular activities so they won't only be available to a select few?  The primary driving force is comprised of the need for stability, the need to improve the educational adequacy of our buildings for the benefit of our children, and the need to be efficient with our resources.  The number of opportunities available to students is based in part on available resources, student interest, and how school programs are organized.  Regardless of whether the community chooses one high school or two, as we get more efficient it’s possible we could expand extracurricular opportunities, and that’s important.  For example, in the one high school option participation in league sports may be reduced, but the increased efficiency could allow us to expand club sports, academic competitions, and artistic opportunities.

Red or white.  Definitely not blue - knowing the great diversity in Duluth, and the geographic size, seems like it would be much harder to nurture a safe, growth promoting atomosphere with only one high school; especially in a site with only one access road.

some more clarifications - class sizes, electives offered, extra-curricular activities (how will schools offer activities to allow all children/students to participate who want to)?

Thank you so much for all of your hard work and clear communication.

Red or White Plan - I think Duluth is too big and spread out to go to one high school.

thanks for all the work you've done thus far.  I think either plan(red or white) will serve Duluth for many years!  Great Job!  Let's go for it!

In the situations where schools will be closed or new schools built, what will the school district do with the buildings?  Sold? Remain Vacant? Please explain.  ISD 709 and Johnson Controls have been meeting with the City of Duluth Planning Office for several months discussing and reviewing potential sites for these school locations.  We currently have three or four possible sites identified for each of the TBD school locations.  We think it prudent to have multiple possibilities for either negotiating reasons or in case potential locations fall through for whatever reason.  The reason the site locations have not yet been made public is that when it comes to negotiating for potential sites for new schools, it is best to not go public with possible sites as it could raise the cost for taxpayers.  For an example of this, Minnesotans can look at the recent announcement of the new Twins stadium location and how that announcement has negatively affected their land acquisition costs.  As soon as it is possible to share site locations, they will be immediately shared with the community.

*red option

I am very concerned that the "Blue option" will be chosen.  I see many drawbacks to having one high school in Duluth - limiting extracurricular involvement and pure size is concerning.

The Red option

Use energy efficient, solar, recycled materials, green roofs, etc. Find ways to discourage single use drivers through better public transportation.  Options for intermural sports/activities are important for life-long physical fitness.  Build cafeterias that serve local, organic, fresh foods.

Keep up the good work, do not wait any longer.  Let's make a solid decision and start seting goals to get there.  Thanks.

The red option appeals to me the most.  2nd would be the white option.  Do NOT support blue at all.

Definitely do not want one high school - blue option - too large, cuts down on after school options.  Also, do not want Ordean as an elementary.

How is the discussion on what plan will be implemented going to be made?     We’re now ready to move from three options to a single solution.  To help with that important step, Johnson Controls is contracting with a consultant to conduct professional public opinion surveys.  The survey results, combined with all the feedback received by our Citizens Group members, school board, Superintendent Dixon and Johnson controls, will help us understand which of the three options the community as a whole feels will serve Duluth best.

Doesn't open enrollment happen more often at the high school level, and if so, by going to a one high school would that help eliminate that problem?  The ability of a school to provide a quality education to students is based in part on available resources, program design, access to experienced teachers, the services provided to students who need extra help, and the ability of the school to organize itself to provide a sense of community to students.  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs and services.

Red or White - we need two high schools.

The middle schools - consider adding another one.  1100 is too big for middle schools.  We are not doing a great job with our middle schools at the current size.   This could also prevent such a division into East and West at such an early age.

I'm a little troubled by the justification for no schools in the middle of town as being that students don't live there.  Students do live there and the middle of town is as much part of our community as the far East and far West are.  Find a way to build either a high school or middle school in the center of town, ie, Woodland/Kenwood/Arrowhead/Central entrance area.

What portion of the $270 mill relate to Johnson Controls? The district’s request for proposals was somewhat unique, in that whoever developed the plan would also be responsible for the implementation of the plan.  The district is looking for single-source accountability throughout the process. To develop the plan, Johnson Controls guaranteed that enough net savings would be realized by the District through implementation of the plan to completely offset the cost to develop the plan. In other words, Johnson Controls was bound by contract to have the plan be developed at no cost to taxpayers. Furthermore, pursuant to Minnesota Statute 123B.65, Johnson Controls agreed to defer the plan development costs to the construction phase. In the event, Johnson Controls completes its obligations and the district elects not to move forward with implementation of the long-range facilities plan, Johnson Controls would receive $250,000. (To date, Johnson Controls has shown the District and the public over $5 million annually in savings resulting from each of the plans.)  Johnson Controls was confident enough in their process to align their goals with those of the School Board.  If the plan gets adopted, contractually Johnson Controls will be responsible for implementation of the plan at industry-standard consulting fees.  All necessary consulting fees are included in the plan costs.  The plan costs are illustrated in today’s dollars and have inflation factored for the next 5 -6 years (which is illustrated in the tax rate numbers shared with the public).  For implementation of the plan, Johnson Controls has committed to work with the local design community.  All work will be contracted or bid out locally as per Minnesota Statutes for school construction and renovations.

Structure final recommendations under a referendum to confirm community concern.

Incorporate an academic report trend.

There seems to be little comments on academics in UMD buildings and solicts capital on merit and academics.  Where is this componet?

Where will my child go to school?  School boundaries are available on this website in the "Options Solutions" report.

I feel the red option make most sense.  A one high school option does not make sense to me or my family.  Duluth is too spread out to be convenient for families.

I think you have been thorough in your research.  Dr. Dixon listens, hears and make common sense decisions in relation to schools/teachers/families.

Stand fast, keep communication open and two-way.

Red

Diversity & desegregation are important.  Access to magnet programs is important.

Great job 709 & JCI! Please consider environmental impact as it relates to sustainability - emission reductions, transportation, energy reductions, etc…

How are the restricted or sloped  sites work for increased # of students @ elementary level.  Has block scheduling been considered - does that affect space requirements.  Do separations consider elevation to reduce traffic up and down hillsides.

White

Reduce to 8 elementary schools.  Eliminate Grant - Lowell, Congdon and Piedmont to accept students (should help with desegregation).

Maintain existing large properties for 30 years from today, increase size of properties - buy adjacent properties @ every opportunity.

Comment

Advice

Question

Well Done!  Keep up the good work on keeping the public informed and a part of the process.  Thank ou for all your hard work for my own three children and the children that I teach at Denfeld every day!

One less elementary, maintain larger properties for future use, acquire property adjacent to maintained sites immediately, through offers.

Is magnet status going to be discontinued for Lowell and Grant?  If so, given the district boundaries, particulaqrly for Grant's new boundary, how will desegregation and concentration of pverty be addressed?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  There’s no guarantee any program at any school will be continued or will go away, regardless of whether a building stays open or closes.  We’ll review all programs and services, determine which have been most successful, and look at implementing those across the district.  For example, if parents appreciate extra music for their children, perhaps such opportunities should be available district wide.  Nettleton’s Responsive Classroom program is successful, perhaps it should be included in every school program.  Instead of focusing desegregation support on three schools, perhaps we would be more successful utilizing a desegregation program in every school. As we work toward stability, equity and quality in our facilities, we’ll also look at stability, equity and quality in the programs we offer.  In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs and services.

I oppose a Walmart Central HS for many extra curricular opportunities provide purpose in going to school.  One high school doesn't have much access to marquis sports such as hockey and basketball or other activities (my kids are in minor sports).  I personally do support preservation of the older schools and that facet appears best achieved by the least expensive option.

You need to get people to understand that larger schools ≠ larger class sizes.  For some reason, this is the assumption people make.

1.  We chose a school board, an administration staff, not facilities - how are you dealing with staff allocation and morale in light of probable staff reduction/relocation, etc?  From the beginning we’ve worked with the teachers union, principals union and other staff leaders on the options for the long-range facilities plan.  The plans would have the greatest affect on non-teaching staff within the schools, for example; administrators, maintenance, clerical, and food service.  Since implementation will likely take place over 5-6 years, reductions in staff could be accomplished in part by retirement and attrition.

If one high school, maintain two schools with in.

Will relationships with Proctor, Hermantown districts change?  Is (are) there relationships at present?  We do have good relationships with the area schools and we will continue to work with the other school districts on a variety of projects including the Safe Schools/Healthy Students project, partnerships to reduce cost, and sharing of best practices.

Teachers and programs educate not expensive buildings.  You are not factoring in the city tax increses - retirees who have paid and paid and paid are constantly being plagued.  The first year Central opened 71-72, the roof leaked.  New construction is not the answer.

How will planning happen to preserve effective programming like responsive classroom @ Nettleton to be shared with other schools - particularly as Grant and Nettleton districts are merged?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  There’s no guarantee any program at any school will be continued or will go away, regardless of whether a building stays open or closes.  We’ll review all programs and services, determine which have been most successful, and look at implementing those across the district.  Just as the community was involved in the development of the three options, they'll also be involved in development for programming for the schools.

Thank you for the intelligent and thorough approach you have take to developing these plans.  In the interest of keeping transportation costs - time and fuel - as well as making HS more accessible to families.  I favor the red or white plan.

Are you taking into consideration the impact the Nettleton Administration has had with Nettleton's success in closing the Race, Culture and achievement gap - and implementation and responsive classroom program?  I'm hoping these will stay intact.  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  There’s no guarantee any program at any school will be continued or will go away, regardless of whether a building stays open or closes.  We’ll review all programs and services, determine which have been most successful, and look at implementing those across the district.

I applaud this effort - offering a state of the art education system and facilities is a critical measure in drawing young people, businesses and new families to Duluth.  Let's make Duluth a model community - it's about time!

Does Lowell continue as a magnet?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  There’s no guarantee any program at any school will be continued or will go away, regardless of whether a building stays open or closes.  We’ll review all programs and services, determine which have been most successful, and look at implementing those across the district.  For example, if parents appreciate extra music for their children, perhaps such opportunities should be available district wide.

Red or White option is ok with me.  Don't believe everyone in West Duluth is in favor of keeping Denfeld as a high school.  There are huge advantages to building a new high school in West Duluth, Piedmont or Duluth Heights.  Good job!  Keep plugging away.

How many elementary schools will have Title I?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  Allocation of Title I dollars would be determined as the process moves forward.

Don't "jam" us into such a small space! Frustrating to begin with! You did not answer why East would be transformed into Ordean!  This needs to be answered in a logical manner.

One high school option.  A. what are the drop out rates compared to small high schools?  B. What are the discipline rates compared to smaller high schools?

Property sale offset is critical.  Some existing properties have been for sale for awhile.  Analysis on the effect of savings should take into account the possibilities that it may take a while to sell property.

Size of park adjacent to Grant?  Examples of block boundaries - road? topography?  Detailed facility information, maps and other information are available in the Solutions Options Report, the Facility Assessment Report and the Educational Adequacy Report.

I welcome all the time and effort put into these plans.  I could live with either Red or White.   The Blue option of one HS would be a mistake - too big.

Was academic performance measured during the same demographic period?

Will this have to go for a vote of citizens before it can be implemented?  As a city of the first class, the Duluth School Board has the ability to vote financial support for the solution or take it to the community for a vote in November.

What would happen to magnet schools and the district's desegregation program?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  There’s no guarantee any program at any school will be continued or will go away, regardless of whether a building stays open or closes.  We’ll review all programs and services, determine which have been most successful, and look at implementing those across the district.

Keep jobs local.  Hire local companies for remodeling and construction.

Programs and curriculum come first!

How is the final decision to be made?  vote? School Board decision?  Why was East chosen over Woodland for a middle school?   We’re now ready to move from three options to a single solution.  To help with that important step, Johnson Controls is contracting with a consultant to conduct professional public opinion surveys.  The survey results, combined with all the feedback received by our Citizens Group members, school board, Superintendent Dixon and Johnson controls, will help us understand which of the three options the community as a whole feels will serve Duluth best.  The school board will consider approval of a solution in June.  They could vote financial support for the solution or take it to the community for a vote in November.

Does valuing neighborhood mean we will continue to have segregated schools?  In creating attendance areas, we looked at grouping neighborhoods. Instead of focusing desegregation support on three magnet schools, perhaps we would be more successful utilizing a desegregation program in every school. As we work toward stability, equity and quality in our facilities, we’ll also look at stability, equity and quality in the programs we offer.  In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs and services.

What happens to magnet schools?  Does focus get lost when distributed across all schools?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings.  There’s no guarantee any program at any school will be continued or will go away, regardless of whether a building stays open or closes.  We’ll review all programs and services, determine which have been most successful, and look at implementing those across the district.

How is the final decision going to be made?  Once decision is made, is it final?   We’re now ready to move from three options to a single solution.  To help with that important step, Johnson Controls is contracting with a consultant to conduct professional public opinion surveys.  The survey results, combined with all the feedback received by our Citizens Group members, school board, Superintendent Dixon and Johnson controls, will help us understand which of the three options the community as a whole feels will serve Duluth best.

Thank you so much for this work!  I have lived in Duluth four years.  This is the first time I have been excited about the future of Duluth.  I sense a chance for renewal and expansion of ideas vs a fearfullness of the future that many Duluthians exhibit.

No plan should be decided upon without working the the DTA to ensure that the City buses make regular trips past all middle and  high schools.  I think kids would use the bus if it was convenient. Look at the success UMD has had on getting students to use the bus.

Why design three plans?  Where would kids go during "renewing/building process?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once a solution is improved, Johnson Controls will develop a detailed implementation plan.

Has there been any talk of exploring changing the grade configuration of buildings and going to K-8 buildings and 9-12 buildings?  Several years ago the Duluth community went through a planning process in part to determine grade configurations for our schools; PreK – 5, 6-8, 9-12.  We also looked at grade configuration throughout Minnesota; about 80% of school district use the PreK-5, 6-8 and 9-12 configuration.

Why not Pre K-6, 7-9 and 10-12?  Several years ago the Duluth community went through a planning process in part to determine grade configurations for our schools; PreK – 5, 6-8, 9-12.  As we began the Long Range Facilities Planning process, we discussed whether it was necessary to make changes to grade configuration.  We also looked at grade configuration throughout Minnesota; about 80% of school district use the PreK-5, 6-8 and 9-12 configuration.

With new and virtually new schools, how would they be staffed given the teachers contract and building seniority rules?  The options affect buildings, not contracts and seniority requirements.

Would like to have more different options.  Red and White are almost idential.  Only difference is whether a new middle school or new high school is built.

Does this mean there will no longer be "open enrollment" in Duluth Public Schools?  Open enrollment  opportunities are required by the state.

Where will be Community Ed classes be held?  Most of the schools to be closed are where most of the Community Ed classes are currently held.  Community partnerships, community education programs and before and after school opportunities are important to our students and families.  During the planning process, Johnson Controls talked with community education staff and representatives from outside organizations to determine needs.  The three options allow opportunities to continue to partner with the community and provide community education in the schools.

If the final plan does have to go to the public in a referendum for funding and approval - what tactic will you use to convince the older population of citizens with no children in the system to be into the change?  From the beginning of this project we've included a broad cross section of the citizenry in the planning and communication process and will continue to do so. Several of our Citizens Group members are senior citizens and our presentations to community organizations include groups like the 55+ Club, New Agers, Retired Educators Association, AARP and others.

What happened to Kenwood (Edison) in this process?  What demographic differences between E & W in red & white plans?

Savings $ to programs instead of buidlings/capitol.  I'd like to see a plan with three middle schools - 1,100 too many students.

1.  Once built, which plan will be the most economical to operate for the long term?  2.  Is this long term economy of operation a prime goal?  With regards to maintenance and upkeep of the facilities, Johnson Controls will provide operations and maintenance guidelines to the district for the new, remodeled or refreshed facilities.  The annual capital dollars the district receives are not part of the financial solutions presented, and these ongoing dollars will be available for ongoing needs in the facilities. Two distinct advantages for the Facilities Department of the district exist once a plan is adopted: one, their capital dollars will go further with fewer buildings to maintain and, two, the Facilities Department will know the future of their buildings and will be able to feel confident about long term improvement decisions.

It is my sincere hope that Board Members remember that they do not simply "represent" a certain neighborhood, parent group, union, or  other constituency; they respresent DULUTH as an entire community.  They will repeat the past if they do not remain mindful - by "past".  I mean a continuation of deterioration of our financial security - Thanks

I am concerned, I live in Duluth Heights.  My children are now in 5th & 7th grade.  They are and will be attending Woodland.  Will the kids in that age group be affected by being affiliated with the children on the East end of town, but their high school year being spent on the West end of town?  I am afraid of them loosing many of their good friends and ties.  Boundary maps are available on this website in the Solutions Options Report.

Which students will move 1st?  In other words, what schools will be ready for students 1st, 2nd, 3rd. etc.  Elementary to middle to high or High to middle to elementary?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once an option is approved, Johnson Controls will develop a detailed implementation plan.

What was the cost of the Johnson Control study?  To develop the plan, Johnson Controls guaranteed that enough net savings would be realized by the district through implementation of the plan to completely offset the cost to develop the plan. In other words, Johnson Controls was bound by contract to have the plan be developed at no cost to taxpayers. Furthermore, pursuant to Minnesota Statute 123B.65, Johnson Controls agreed to defer the plan development costs to the construction phase.  In the event, Johnson Controls completes its obligations and the district elects not to move forward with implementation of the long-range facilities plan, Johnson Controls would receive $250,000. (To date, Johnson Controls has shown the District and the public over $5 million annually in savings resulting from each of the plans.)

Please explain Johnson Controls relationship?  How will competitive bidding function?  In January 2006, local agencies were invited to submit proposals for helping the district develop a facilities plan; the district received eight.  Two months later members of our facilities management department and administration, along with representatives from the community, heard presentations from three facilities consulting firms. They overwhelmingly recommended Johnson Controls.  The district’s request for proposals was somewhat unique, in that whoever developed the plan would also be responsible for the implementation of the plan.  The district is looking for single-source accountability throughout the process.  To develop the plan, Johnson Controls guaranteed that enough net savings would be realized by the district through implementation of the plan to completely offset the cost to develop the plan. In other words, Johnson Controls was bound by contract to have the plan be developed at no cost to taxpayers. Furthermore, pursuant to Minnesota Statute 123B.65, Johnson Controls agreed to defer the plan development costs to the construction phase.  In the event, Johnson Controls completes its obligations and the district elects not to move forward with implementation of the long-range facilities plan, Johnson Controls would receive $250,000. (To date, Johnson Controls has shown the District and the public over $5 million annually in savings resulting from each of the plans.)  Johnson Controls was confident enough in their process to align their goals with those of the School Board.  If the plan gets adopted, contractually Johnson Controls will be responsible for implementation of the plan at industry-standard consulting fees.  All necessary consulting fees are included in the plan costs.  The plan costs are illustrated in today’s dollars and have inflation factored for the next 5 -6 years (which is illustrated in the tax rate numbers shared with the public).  For implementation of the plan, Johnson Controls has committed to work with the local design community.  All work will be contracted or bid out locally as per Minnesota Statutes for school construction and renovations.

How will the construction work be accomplished on a timely basis without disrupting education?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once an option is approved, Johnson Controls will develop a detailed implementation plan.

The $5.5 million savings begins when?  Once the building are all complete and up and running?  What is the anticipated "operational" cost increase not just facilities increase?  The savings would be realized as buildings are consolidated. With regards to maintenance and upkeep of the facilities, Johnson Controls will provide operations and maintenance guidelines to the District for the new, remodeled or refreshed facilities.  The annual capital dollars the District receives are not part of the financial solutions presented, and these ongoing dollars will be available for ongoing needs in the facilities. Two distinct advantages for the Facilities Department of the District exist once a plan is adopted: one, their capital dollars will go further with fewer buildings to maintain and, two, the Facilities Department will know the future of their buildings and will be able to feel confident about long term improvement decisions.

I would like a plan to be implemented and followed through.

Are we going from a situation where we have many appreciating assets to a district where most all of our assets are depreciating?  (ie: all new/like new buildings and no "endowment" left)?

How can savings $5.5 mill/yr cost us $250 mill?  Does that mean that the actual construction costs is $350 mill?  The $5.5 million in savings could be used to offset the $250 million cost.  Over a twenty year period the $5.5 million each year, along with about $24 million from the sale of property and other funding sources, could cover up to 50% of the $250 million cost.

Alternate energy sources are going to be an important part of our future.  Has the district or is the district willing to look at this issue and calculate the initial costs and potential savings involved?  There are state and local resources specifically for school districts to impliment and fund these energy sources.  Johnson Controls is a national leader in sustainable building practices and renewable energy.  In fact, Johnson Controls is currently developing the Minnesota Schools Wind Energy Farm, a cooperative agreement between 14 school districts that (through the assistance of Johnson Controls ) have received approval for up to $42 million in Clean Renewable Energy Bonds. Johnson Controls has also had significant energy savings partnerships with neighboring school districts, including Proctor and Superior.  Johnson Controls will continue to seek out possible grant dollars for sustainable and renewable energy projects for the school construction and renovation projects.  Utility grants and rebates have been factored into the financials of the plan for energy efficiency improvements in the schools that qualify for such dollars from both Minnesota Power’s and the City of Duluth’s Comfort Systems rebate programs.

An old building is not bad by itself (look at schools such as Harvard) but deferred maintenance is an issue.  Starting 5-10 years after remodeling/building, structures will need work.  How will this be adressed?  (So we don't end up in the same place in 30 years).  With regards to maintenance and upkeep of the facilities, Johnson Controls will provide operations and maintenance guidelines to the District for the new, remodeled or refreshed facilities.  The annual capital dollars the District receives are not part of the financial solutions presented, and these ongoing dollars will be available for ongoing needs in the facilities. Two distinct advantages for the Facilities Department of the District exist once a plan is adopted: one, their capital dollars will go further with fewer buildings to maintain and, two, the Facilities Department will know the future of their buildings and will be able to feel confident about long term improvement decisions.

1.  What was the reasoning behind building a new Lester Park School (on Lester site) vs renewing and expanding Rockridge school (a larger site)?

Job well done - all three plans look pretty good - our son will do fine where ever he goes!  Would we be keeping the Barnes facility and what for?  I would like to see all the programs to be the same at all schools.  Like the two high school plans a little better.  Would like to  have seen streets names on your boundaries maps.

Is there a plan to maintain the up keep over the next 20 years and beyond?  With regards to maintenance and upkeep of the facilities, Johnson Controls will provide operations and maintenance guidelines to the District for the new, remodeled or refreshed facilities.  The annual capital dollars the District receives are not part of the financial solutions presented, and these ongoing dollars will be available for ongoing needs in the facilities.  Two distinct advantages for the Facilities Department of the District exist once a plan is adopted: one, their capital dollars will go further with fewer buildings to maintain and, two, the Facilities Department will know the future of their buildings and will be able to feel confident about long term improvement decisions.

It is time for a change!  A two high school plan is the way.  If every child has an opportunity to have a learning experience that would be like Lowell, that would be awesome!  Our kids deserve the best and so does our future community.

Are you adding activities for those children?  This phase of the long range facilities planning process will determine how many schools, where they’re located, and the financial solution to make improvements to the buildings.  Once that’s accomplished we’ll move on to the next phase – a determination of the programs, activities and support services that will go into each of those buildings. In the same way the community is helping determine a facilities plan, we’ll also seek community input on programs and services.

Is it all about property value?  How do you justify splitting all Central and Lowell kids?  Central is biggest why is it only in (1) plan? (best senario).

How is the cost of raising a school justified?

What is the cost to the district if none of these plans do not go through?

I like the two high school plan.  I'm concerned about opportunities for kids in sports and music if there was one super-school.  3,000 kids in one school is too many!

Do long-term enrollment estimates take into account that implementing such a capital investment may very well make Duluth Schools more attractive and thereby increase student populations more than would otherwise be predicted?  According to a Demographic Report by former state demographer Dr. Hazel Reinhardt, Duluth's enrollment has declined primarily because there are fewer young adults to have children.  The current generation, Generation X, is 60% smaller than the previous generation.  Enrollment in Duluth's traditional non-public schools has also been steadily declining.  Even though 1,450 new houses are projected to be constructed in the next 10 years, the fact that each household will have an average of .30 school-age children means there will be minimal impact on these statistics.  The projections, however, do take into account some variances in these areas, as well as in the impact new-business development could have on the community.  A copy of the Demographic Report is available on this website.

One high school plan! NO.  Lack of opportunities for students, only so much room on sports teams, elective courses, foreign languages, etc., classroom sizes: 25, 30, 35, 40 students?  Changing the number of schools or size of schools won’t affect class size.  Under any of the three options the student to teacher ratio used by the school district to help determine numbers of teachers remains the same.

What would happen if we went back to the old K-12 configuration?  K-6 at Elem Schools, 7-9 at Jr. HS and 10-12 at HS? Wouldn't that help even out the kids better?  Several years ago the Duluth community went through a planning process in part to determine grade configurations for our schools; PreK – 5, 6-8, 9-12.  As we began the Long Range Facilities Planning process, we discussed whether it was necessary to make changes to grade configuration.  We also looked at grade configuration throughout Minnesota; about 80% of school district use the PreK-5, 6-8 and 9-12 configuration.

1. Would the HS have adequate parking and would that include "parking ramps".  2. Do you anticipte being able to keep these schools open on weekends to serve the neighborhoods as "community centers" and offer ow.students access to media centers, swim pools, gyms, etc.  Community partnerships, community education programs and before and after school opportunities are important to our students and families.  During the planning process, Johnson Controls talked with community education staff and representatives from outside organizations to determine needs.  The three options would continue to allow opportunities to continue to partner with the community and provide community education in the schools.

Have you factored in likely 2 sports facilities at East/Ordean equal to public schools stadium in Red & Blue option cost estimates?

Don't quite understand the payment plan… counting $ before the sale of properties…might not get that much.  District properties were analyzed by Ramsland & Vigen, Inc., a nationally recognized real estate appraisal and consulting firm with offices in Duluth.  The market values assigned to each property are realistic, and perhaps somewhat conservative, figures for long range planning purposes.  Johnson Controls and the district would continue to seek expert assistance to market and sell the properties.

Is there an alternative plan for the schools if the voters do not approve the increase in taxes?

What is Central property worth for resale?  In the Property Value Report, Ramsland & Vigen (a nationally recognized real estate appraisal and consulting firm with offices in Duluth) determined an alternate use value of about $13.7 million.  That report is available on this website.

What kind of traffic/access pattern would be implemented if we had one high school on Central site?  If this facility were to be developed as a hone high school options, there would be a significant building addition in conjunction with numerous site upgrades, access road improvements and parking modifications that would need to be accomplished.

It would seem that the District cannot afford to properly maintain the Historic Old Central.  It also seems that we could see that and move Unity, the technical program, facilities managmenet and Administration into the new Central. What is the rationale for keeping Old Central?

The proceeds fromsale of assets will largely go to the capital improvements being discussed.  Some mention was made of additional programming funds being generated.  What are some of the focal points with regards to programming?

Do to the City of Duluth's health care funding issue, is its impact being considered in the process to gain community support for the schools?

Have you factored in the cost of transportation with fewer schools?  Will we save enough money to bring back the 7th hour day (just a wish)?

Is the school district involved in any efforts to increase State and Federal government spending on education?  The school district has a governmental relations specialists who helps share information with and receive information from local and state legislators.