As we begin December and officially begin our second trimester, Becker Public Schools looks forward to three strong weeks of learning before our two-week winter break which will take place from December 20 to January 4. During the next couple weeks our buildings are focused on keeping the momentum on the start of the year and will be working hard to ensure every student finishes 2025 strong. 

We are also working on our 2026-2027 school calendar, and this year we have a new twist thanks to a state approved option that allows a pre-Labor Day start for at least the next two years. Our calendar committee will review the options we have created and we expect them to bring a recommendation to the board with a first reading at our January 5 school board meeting, and a goal to have full approval at our February or March board meeting. If you have thoughts or feelings on a pre or post-Labor Day start please reach out to me (Dr. Schmidt).

Additionally, we are in the early stages of planning for next year’s budget. With the recent referendum not passing, we will need to have an increase in fiscal discipline. This means evaluating staffing, reviewing spending patterns, and looking for continued efficiencies throughout the district. This work calls for creativity while being cautious. We are committed to looking at a number of innovative solutions that allow us to maintain services and continue to improve the student experience whenever possible. 

Recently, we shared our winter weather school closing guidelines. It seems the snow is coming every day now and this past couple weeks has brought the coldest temperatures in a long time. We ask that families continue sending students (All of them) with proper winter clothing. When I visited the Primary School recess I was encouraged by how well our students were prepared. If you need assistance with winter clothes, please reach out to your child’s school as we have a number of resources available to help out. 

The winter season is also a very busy time for activities throughout the district. We invite the community to join us for a wide range of events from winter concerts, Community Ed programs, robotics, gymnastics, dance, wrestling, basketball and much more. Our students are extremely talented and love to show off their skills to our community and region. Please take a look at our website and specifically our activities calendars for dates and times. 

As we approach winter break, I want to extend my gratitude to our families, staff, and community. I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday season and happy New Year. We look forward to welcoming all students back in January with a renewed focus and excitement for the second half of the year.