School Board Appoints New Director

On September 23, the School Board held a Special Session to appoint a new Board Director, following the resignation of Director Enrique Velázquez. The Board unanimously passed a resolution appointing Dan White to fill the vacancy. White will serve for the remainder of Director Velázquez’s term until a Special Election is held in 2025.



White previously served on the School Board from 1994 to 2005. He was also appointed by a former Board to fill a vacated seat in 2010. White was re-elected again to serve from 2012 to 2016. He will be sworn in during the Board’s October 28, 2024 meeting.   

During the candidacy filing period, which lasted from September 10 to September 16, fourteen applicants submitted their names for consideration to fill the vacant seat.

Director Velázquez submitted his resignation effective September 13, 2024. He has been a dedicated member of the PLSAS School Board since 2019. We extend our heartfelt thanks to him for his years of service and commitment to our district.

What's on the November 5 ballot?

The funds generated by the proposed operating levy will significantly impact the opportunities we can provide to students. If the operating levy is approved, the district would be able to:

• Enhance academic excellence that increases student performance and outcomes
• Increase staffing for behavior intervention and student support
• Expand career pathway programs and
• Strengthen safety and security at all schools

If the operating levy is not approved, the district is projected to have a budget shortfall in the 2025-2026 school year and beyond. It will be necessary to make significant budget reductions, which are likely to include:

• Closing one or more elementary schools resulting in boundary changes
• Increasing class sizes
• Staff reductions
• Reducing student programs, and more

The budget challenges currently facing the district would continue.

Look for more information on the district’s website, www.plsas.org/referendum 

PLHS Students Earn Prestigious AP Scholar Awards for Outstanding Academic Achievement

A total of 150 Prior Lake High School students have earned recognition through the Advanced Placement (AP) program this year, showcasing their exceptional college-level achievement on multiple AP exams. Congratulations! Click here to learn more.

Safety and Security

This month’s Safety Spotlight focuses on school safety, a key part of the upcoming levy proposal on Election Day, November 5.



The levy proposal includes plans to strengthen safety and security across all schools, specifically:

• Classroom Security: Updating and standardizing classroom door locks to allow for quick emergency locking.
• Perimeter Security: Enhancing security with additional surveillance cameras and security film on entrance windows.
• High School Security: Constructing a more secure lower-level entrance at Prior Lake High School.

These proposed additions are based on recommendations from a U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) audit. Click here to learn more about the upcoming operating levy referendum proposal. 

PLSAS School Board candidates to participate in forum hosted by Prior Lake Chamber of Commerce