The Process

A Thoughtful, Community-Driven Approach

The proposed 2026 Little Falls Community Schools referendum reflects a deliberate, multi-year planning process that included facility studies, financial review, staff input, and community engagement to ensure decisions were informed, transparent, and future focused.

Step 1: Strategic Planning

The process began with long-term planning focused on financial stability and safe, future-ready facilities.

Rooted in Little Falls Community Schools’ Strategic Plan.
Aligned with Strategic Priority #2: Finance and Facilities.
Focused on long-term sustainability and student safety.

Strategic Priority #2 goals include:

Developing and implementing a comprehensive plan to ensure financial stability.
Creating a facilities plan that addresses district needs for the next 5–10 years.
Enhancing safety and security for all students and staff across school settings.

Step 2: Task Force & Financial Review

District leaders and staff evaluated current conditions, enrollment trends, and financial considerations.

Reviewed enrollment trends and facility usage.
Evaluated operational costs and efficiency opportunities.
Considered multiple approaches to long-term planning.

Finance subgroup considerations included:

Identifying additional budget reduction opportunities.
Conducting a comprehensive school district survey.
Planning for a potential referendum within two years.
Evaluating the feasibility of a four-day school week.

Step 3: Facility Utilization & Design

Listening & Collaboration

District staff played an active role in shaping the facility planning process through structured listening sessions and collaboration.

Listening sessions were held with Middle School staff, High School staff, administrators, and support staff.
Staff shared how existing spaces support instruction, student services, and daily operations.
Feedback highlighted opportunities to improve supervision, circulation, and learning environments.
Input was used to refine concepts and ensure plans reflect day-to-day needs.

Professional Analysis & Assessment

In addition to staff input, the district engaged professional expertise to evaluate facility conditions and planning options.

Widseth conducted a comprehensive facility assessment of existing buildings.
Space utilization, building conditions, and long-term maintenance needs were reviewed.
Findings informed conceptual improvement plans for Little Falls Community High School.
Design concepts focused on safety, efficiency, and future flexibility.

Step 4: Learning From Other Districts

School Tours

To better understand how similar districts have approached facility improvements, Little Falls staff and planning partners visited schools across Minnesota.

Tours included Crosby-Ironton, Brainerd, Rock Ridge, and Le Sueur–Henderson.
Schools were selected based on renovation or expansion projects similar to those being considered in Little Falls.
Focus areas included remodeled learning spaces, media center reconfigurations, universal restrooms, and expanded gym facilities.

Le Sueur-Henderson Gym

Step 5: Concept Development & Cost Review

Using information gathered through planning, staff input, and facility analysis, conceptual improvement plans were developed and reviewed.

Widseth developed conceptual plans for improvements at Little Falls Community High School.
Contegrity Group provided cost estimates to support financial planning.
Concepts were evaluated for safety, efficiency, and long-term flexibility.

Step 6: Community Engagement & Next Steps

A community meeting was held on November 10 to explain the planning process and proposed improvements. This website provides additional information, including details about the proposed plan, tax impact information, voting details, and upcoming informational events where community members can learn more.

If approved, the proposed improvements are anticipated to be complete by the beginning of the 2027–2028 school year.

the process