The St. Cloud Area School Board approved a two-question bond referendum for district voters to consider on April 8, 2025. The tax impact if both questions are approved would be $3.33 per month for the average homeowner (on a $250,000 home) in the district.

Question One addresses critical safety updates and improvements at Apollo High School. Apollo is the only school in the district that does not have a secure entrance. This question also addresses the need to renovate spaces at Apollo to better prepare students for college and careers. 

Some of these updates include:

• A new ambulance bay and health care lab to prepare students for careers as EMTs, CNAs, and emergency management professionals;

• Updated facilities to support advanced computing, data sciences, and careers in engineering and manufacturing;

• Improvements to one of the auto mechanics bays which allows expansion of current automotive mechanic offerings to include diesel mechanics;

• Improvements to the fine arts areas for advanced learning in theatre, performing arts, music, visual and recording arts;

• An improved culinary lab to train students for food-safe certifications and careers in the food service and hospitality industries.

Question Two asks voters to approve the construction of an indoor multipurpose athletic facility.

This space will provide the community with access to a full-size turf field and walking track and will support year-round activities for students throughout the district. Rental of this facility will be available for community groups.

Question One must pass for Question Two to be approved.

“This referendum reflects 10 years of careful planning and community collaboration,” said Superintendent Laurie Putnam. “These projects address critical safety and educational needs at Apollo High School, while also investing in opportunities that benefit our entire community. By creating modern and flexible learning spaces, we’re ensuring our students graduate prepared to contribute to our communities and succeed in their chosen paths.”

St. Cloud Area Schools will keep residents informed about the referendum by providing educational materials, a dedicated website with FAQs, and informational meetings leading up to the vote. Election Day is Tues., April 8. Early voting begins February 21.

For more information, please visit: isd742.org/referendum, or email: referendum@isd742.org, or call (320) 370-8002.