Update on Federal Funding for Willmar Public Schools

Update on Federal Funding for Willmar Public Schools

Willmar Public Schools is pleased to share that the U.S. Department of Education has announced the release of previously withheld federal funds for the 2025–2026 school year. This includes funding for Title II, Title III, and Title IV Part A programs, totaling $353,570.39 for our district. These funds had been delayed as part of a federal review process.

We are grateful to report that with the release of these funds, the district can move forward with several key initiatives that had been placed on hold. These include:

• Professional development and instructional coaching through Title II
• Support for English Learners (ELs), who represent over 25% of our student body, through Title III
• Mental health and academic enrichment programs, including Student Support Specialists and the Youth Frontiers Respect Retreat, through Title IV

This funding will allow us to proceed with intended programming to support student achievement, staff growth, and school climate.

Willmar Public Schools remains committed to using all available resources effectively and in alignment with our mission to inspire and prepare all learners for their future in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

Willmar Public Schools Hosts Open House to Showcase New Gymnasium and Renovated Spaces

Willmar Public Schools Hosts Open House to Showcase New Gymnasium and Renovated Spaces

Willmar Public Schools is excited to invite the community to an open house event at the Middle School to celebrate the completion of a new gymnasium and the recent renovations to the school. Voters supported an operating levy and building bond referendum in November 2023, which funded these much-needed improvements, and the district is thrilled to showcase the results.

The open house will provide an opportunity for constituents to tour the newly completed gymnasium, remodeled offices, fitness center, and other spaces. The event is a way to thank the voters for their support and to give them a firsthand look at the impact their votes have had on the school community.

“We are deeply thankful for the support of our community,” said Dr. Bill Adams, Superintendent of Willmar Public Schools. “This open house is a chance to show our constituents the tangible outcomes of their vote and to celebrate the improvements that will benefit students and staff for years to come.”

Principal Mark Miley added, “The upgrades to our Middle School are not only exciting for our students and staff but are also a reflection of the community’s investment in our future. We look forward to welcoming our community to see how these improvements will make a difference in our daily activities and the learning environment.”

Event Details:

• Date: August 20, 2025
• Time: 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm
• Location: Willmar Middle School, 209 Willmar Ave SE, Willmar, MN 56201
• Cost: Free and open to the public

Federal Funding Status and Impact on Willmar Public Schools

Federal Funding Status and Impact on Willmar Public Schools

Willmar Public Schools has been informed by the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) that federal funding through Title II, Title III, and Title IV Part A programs is currently being withheld by the U.S. Department of Education. While the district has not received direct notification from the federal government, the delay in funds is already and will continue impacting several planned programs for the 2025–2026 school year.

The total amount currently on hold is $353,570.39, which includes:

• $142,495.64 in Title II funds
• $123,634.14 in Title III funds
• $87,440.61 in Title IV Part A funds

How These Funds Are Typically Used
Title II funds support professional development for teachers and school leaders. In Willmar, these funds were designated to:

• Support instructional coaching to improve teaching practices across classrooms
• Provide training in the Focused Teacher Evaluation Model (FTEM)
• Continue multi-year work in standards-based grading and proficiency scales
• Support implementation of Competency-Based Education at the Area Learning Center, Prairie Lakes Education Center, and Lake Park
• Fund the Digital Learning Coach position to assist staff in integrating educational technology into instruction

Title III funds are used to support English Learners (ELs), who make up approximately 25.6% of the district’s student population. Planned uses included:

• Bilingual paraprofessional support during content area instruction
• EL-specific professional development for staff
• Family engagement activities to support communication and school involvement

Title IV Part A funds are used for student support and academic enrichment. Our district planned to use these funds for:

• Student Support Specialists, who provide direct assistance to students struggling with mental health, behavior, attendance, or family-related challenges.
• Youth Frontiers Respect Retreat, a powerful experience that helps students build empathy, strengthen peer relationships, and improve school climate.

Next Steps and Planning
Because the district's 2025–2026 budget was finalized prior to this funding delay, no immediate staffing reductions are being made. However, the district will place a hold on certain non-staff-related expenses until there is more clarity on the funding timeline. If funds remain unavailable, program adjustments may be considered during the planning process for the 2026–2027 school year.

In fiscal year 2024, 7.51% of the district’s total revenue came from federal sources, including Titles I-IV and Special Education. While the majority of school funding comes from state and local sources, these federal programs support targeted services that are important for student learning and success.

Willmar Public Schools will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the district remains focused on serving students and ensuring that core instructional services continue without disruption.