Powers Lake school welcomes state superintendent ahead of funding vote

POWERS LAKE, N.D. (KMOT) - State Superintendent Levi Bachmeier visited Powers Lake on Thursday as part of his tour of schools across North Dakota.

It comes at a time when voters in that district will be heading to the polls next week on a funding decision for building expansion.

The home of the ranchers has 235 students in pre-school through 12th grade.

The school nestled in southern Burke County is one of the most recent stops for North Dakota’s new superintendent.

Bachmeier has said he’ll visit every district in the state.

District Superintendent Sue Kranz said they wanted to highlight issues that small-town schools like Powers Lake face.

“Making him aware of just the challenges with hiring quality staff, making sure that we have teachers in the classroom, as well as support staff,” said Kranz.

Kranz said they are often trying to compete with oilfield wages.

She added that the school’s student population is growing.

“Space is always a concern here, and that will be our next project is looking at some options for gym space and more classroom space,” said Kranz.

Kranz explained they are also looking at adding a new agriculture classroom and shop to help.

“Facilities is such an important part of the educational experience for students, especially in communities that are growing,” said Bachmeier.

Bachmeier echoed the importance of expansion.

He added that the basic curriculum is vital, but including career and technical courses helps prepare students for the workforce.

“If we want students to truly be ‘choice ready,’ which is the state’s goal, we need to expose them to different career opportunities,” said Bachmeier.

Kranz valued the chance to walk a state leader through their day-to-day operations.

Bachmeier’s visit comes days before a special election aimed at helping with future expansion.

“This is to propose raising our building fund mills from 10 mills to 20 mills,” said Kranz.

Community members will have the opportunity to vote on the adjustment on Tuesday.

Kranz said construction on the agriculture addition will be delayed, but will still happen, if the vote fails.

Kranz said taxpayers shouldn’t see an increase since other mills are dropping due to the district paying off debt.

Bachmeier also visited Divide County and Mohall on Thursday and will stop in Bottineau and Velva on Friday.