Southland School District
Adams, MN | Education
Overview
ISG worked alongside the District and community to understand both the political climate and facility needs to reach a positive referendum outcome for students.
Opportunity
Southland School District engaged ISG as a critical partner for consultation and communications to carry forth a successful referendum after failed attempts with previous partners. Challenges facing the District and its facilities included the need for major repairs, safety and security, declining enrollment, past referendum failures, and deficit spending.
Solution
After listening to key stakeholders, ISG proposed the District increase its community awareness and engagement efforts, survey residents to see what the community wanted and would support, and give them three referendum options—not just one. ISG provided three real solutions to address their needs; a new school, a remodeled school, and keeping the school as is with minor updates were all openly vetted. All options had various cost and student implications and painted a clear picture to stakeholders and voters on process, needs, and costs. The referendum was successful and ISG is currently working with the District to construct a replacement for a 100+ year old combined theatre/auditorium and gym space, expanding or building an additional gymnasium, merging the elementary and high school under one roof, addressing accessibility and fire rating upgrades, and providing STEM spaces.