Superintendent Welcome

Moving Forward Together

At Pelican Rapids Public Schools, our mission is clear: to provide a variety of high-quality academic, arts, and athletic programs in a unique rural setting. Each day, that mission guides our decisions, our priorities, and our commitment to students and families.

We believe education is strongest when it is a true partnership between students, families, schools, and our community. Our students remain our top priority, and we are fortunate to have highly qualified staff who provide a positive, rigorous learning environment focused on academic excellence. Our district’s diversity enriches learning by giving students meaningful real-world perspectives and experiences, while preparing them for post-secondary education, the workforce, and lifelong learning.

This year, our work is centered around four key priorities:

• Community Engagement: Strengthening relationships with families, local organizations, and community partners to support student success and build pride in our schools.
• Educating the Whole Child: Supporting not only academic growth, but also students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being.
• Increasing Student Enrollment: Highlighting the strengths of Pelican Rapids Public Schools and ensuring our district remains a welcoming, high-quality option for families.
• Sound and Transparent Financial Practices: Being responsible stewards of public resources while making strategic investments in students and staff.

These priorities align directly with our district goals. We are focused on ensuring that 75% of our students are kindergarten-ready, as measured by teacher assessments, because early learning is foundational to long-term success. We are committed to increasing reading and math proficiency for Free and Reduced Price students by 3% each year, recognizing the importance of equity and access for all learners.

At the secondary level, we continue to emphasize future readiness. Our goal is for 100% of graduating seniors to leave Pelican Rapids High School with a clear plan—whether that path leads to postsecondary education, military service, or the workforce. In addition, we are working to ensure our graduation rate exceeds the statewide average, reflecting our commitment to supporting every student through completion.

None of this work happens alone. The success of Pelican Rapids Public Schools is built on strong partnerships, dedicated staff, supportive families, and a community that values education. Together, we will continue to build opportunities for our students and ensure a strong future for our district.

Thank you for your continued support of Pelican Rapids Public Schools.