In education, we often focus on what happens within the four walls of a classroom. However, the success of our students is rarely a solo performance by the school district. It is a symphony of support, resources, and community care. There is an old proverb that "it takes a village to raise a child," and here in Fergus Falls, that village is active, engaged, and deeply committed.
As we look at the achievements of our students, it is important to acknowledge the many partners who work tirelessly to ensure that every child is supported. Some of these partners work visibly alongside us. Some of these partners work behind the scenes. Some prefer to remain completely anonymous. This article is a heartfelt thank you to both those named and to the many unnamed who are making a difference in the daily lives of children.
Investing in the Future
Our local foundations provide the "extra" that makes our district extraordinary.
The 544 Foundation continues to be a cornerstone of innovation, funding grants that allow our teachers to bring creative projects to life.
Dollars for Scholars ensures that the dream of higher education remains accessible, easing the financial burden for our graduating seniors.
West Central Initiative is a regional community foundation and development organization dedicated to strengthening the economic and social vitality of nine west-central Minnesota counties
Educational & Municipal Partners
We are incredibly fortunate to share a home with M State. Our partnership allows students to bridge the gap between high school and college, providing academic pathways right here in town. Similarly, the Fergus Falls Public Library serves as an extension of our classrooms, offering a world of discovery and literacy resources that keep our students curious long after the school bell rings.
Behind the scenes, the Lakes Country Service Cooperative provides the high-level coordination and shared services that allow us to operate more efficiently and provide specialized programming that would be difficult for us to manage alone.
The City of Fergus Falls is more than just our location; they are our teammates. From infrastructure to safety, we rely on the Fergus Falls Police Department not only for protection but for mentorship and education. They are visible, approachable figures in our hallways who help build a culture of security and trust. The City of Fergus Falls, Lakes Country Service Cooperative and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service all partner with the school to make the award-winning prairie science classroom possible.
A Network of Support: Otter Tail County
The well-being of a student involves far more than just academics. We work hand-in-hand with Otter Tail County and service-minded agencies to provide a holistic safety net. This includes:
Public Health & Social Services: Ensuring our families are healthy and supported.
County Attorney & Probation: Working with us on restorative practices and student attendance.
Lakeland Mental Health: Providing essential services that ensure our students' emotional needs are met so they are ready to learn.
United Way provides a vital layer of support, tackling the root causes of barriers to learning and ensuring our families have the resources they need.
Service and Stewardship
Our local service clubs—Kiwanis, Rotary, Sertoma, and Lions, among others —are the heartbeat of civic pride. Whether through scholarships, donations, or volunteer hours, these organizations model the value of "service above self" for our students every single day.
Business & Career Development
Our local economy and our schools are inextricably linked. We owe a debt of gratitude to our local businesses. Beyond their financial contributions to our programs, they are vital partners in our Work-Based Learning program. By offering placements and internships, they provide our students with "real-world" classrooms, teaching the skills that will fuel our future workforce.
Keeping Us Moving
Finally, we couldn't do what we do without the reliable partnership of Ottertail Coaches. They ensure our students travel safely to school, competitions, and field trips, representing our "Otter Pride" across the region.
The Strength of the Otter
To our parents, our partners, and our neighbors who volunteer their time on behalf of children: thank you. You are the "village" that makes Fergus Falls Public Schools a place of excellence. When we work together, the future of our youth and our community looks brighter than ever.
Jeff Drake, Superintendent Fergus Falls Public Schools