investing in the future of aitkin public schools

After a close but unsuccessful referendum to replace Rippleside Elementary with a new PreK-6 school in November 2025, Aitkin Public Schools has worked closely with the community, engineers, and architects to create an adjusted plan that meets our top goals for students at a lower cost to taxpayers.

By reducing planned square footage for the new school, gym, and bus storage space, the estimated tax impact for the updated plan is approximately 33% lower annually than the plan proposed during the November 2025 referendum. Please note that the term of the bond was extended by 5 years to a total of 25 years.

On Tuesday, April 14, voters in the Aitkin School District will decide whether this plan moves forward when they vote on the following questions: 

question one

Asks voters to consider a $49.79 million plan to replace the nearly 70-year-old Rippleside Elementary school with a new PreK-6 building.

question two

Asks voters to consider $3.19 million for additional bus storage to provide adequate space to store all district vehicles.

question three

Asks voters to consider a $2.325 million investment for an additional gymnasium station attached to the new PreK-6 elementary school, which would be accessible to the public.

Question Two can only pass if voters also approve Question One. Questions One and Two must pass for Question Three to pass.

CONCPETUAL PLAN: PREK-6 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SCHEMATIC DESIGN

Why build a new school?

The Aitkin School Board carefully considered the value of remodeling the existing Rippleside building versus constructing a new building. Given the age of the current building, construction estimates projected that remodeling the building to address all needed repairs would cost approximately 62% of the cost to build new. Remodeling would only address some of the classroom resizing, collaborative space, or other learning space improvements that are standard in new Minnesota schools today.

The school board is committed to building a new PreK-6 school that is prepared to serve students for decades to come, and believes doing so provides the best long-term value for students, staff, taxpayers, and the health of our community.

Recognizing the immense value of this investment for the community, the Iron Range Resources & Rehabilitation Board has agreed to provide a $5 million grant to support the construction of the school should voters approve the referendum.

A new PreK-6 school will provide a safe, efficient building equipped to fully support today’s teachers and curriculum, with:

    • New classrooms will be the right size to meet today’s learning needs and educational standards, with room for hands-on activities, small group work, and personalized learning. 

    • Dedicated special education spaces will provide enhanced services and support for students who need it most.

    • A new media center will offer a flexible area for reading, research, and group projects.

    • A controlled entrance and monitored main office will help ensure only authorized visitors enter the school. 

    • Separate drop-off zones for cars and buses will make traffic flow smoother and safer.

    • The building will be fully accessible, with ADA-compliant entrances, classrooms, and restrooms, making it easier for all students, staff, and our community to move around and access the building.

    • New heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, boilers, windows, and doors will improve air quality and temperature control while saving on energy costs.

    • New plumbing and drainage systems will prevent leaks and water damage, creating a healthier space for students to learn and grow.

    • The district would save a projected $35,000 annually on energy and maintenance efficiencies alone.

    • Replacing the existing bus garage located near the railroad tracks with new bus storage space near the new elementary school will improve the longevity and efficiency of district vehicles while reducing the risk of train-related accidents.

Additional gymnasium space would meet a community need, giving people of all ages a place to gather and stay active, with:

  • An open gymnasium will encourage active lifestyles for children, adults, and seniors alike.

  • Multipurpose spaces for meetings, events, and gatherings will support stronger relationships and a more engaged community.

  • Using the same building for two purposes – school and community activities – is a smart strategy to reduce costs and encourage connection.

Draft Designs for the new PreK-6 Elementary School

The proposed new elementary school and community wellness and recreation center would be located on approximately 80-90 acres of 225 acres of land owned by the school district (34305 405th Place, Aitkin).

These designs are preliminary. If the referendum is approved, the district will seek community members to be on the design committee to help plan this space.

Take a Look at the Proposed Campus!

community impact of building a elementary new school and gymnasium space

  • Create over 160 prevailing wage jobs during a 30-month construction process

  • Attract families and young professionals to live and work in Aitkin.

  • Enhance quality of life with activities and events for all residents.

  • Provide land opportunities for future housing development, including single and multi-unit housing.

  • Strengthen the city’s economy through new housing and employment opportunities.

Learn about the cost and tax impact of the plan