Tri County Public Schools

How This Bond Proposal Took Shape

This proposal was built through months of listening and community input. After the May facilities plan, the district mailed and shared a survey that drew balanced responses from all three counties. Most respondents said cost was not the deciding factor, showing room to improve the plan and better match community priorities.

Using this feedback, the Board refined the proposal to focus on what patrons and staff said mattered most. Staff also took part in two districtwide sessions to ask questions and share ideas that helped shape the final plan.

Community voices guided this proposal from start to finish.

🔗 https://www.tricountyschools.org/page/bond-info

Due to timing of forecasted snowfall tomorrow, Monday, 12/1/25, Tri County Public Schools will have a 2-HOUR LATE START. Buses will run accordingly two hours late. Breakfast will not be served, and there is no preschool. We will monitor conditions in the morning as they develop.

If you are a registered voter living in Tri County School District, you should have by now received a ballot by mail for the proposed Tri County bond project. Please be sure to return your completed ballot to your county clerk's office. Ballots must be received no later than December 9, 2025 at 5:00 PM. Mailed ballots arriving later than December 9th will not be counted. All registered voters are strongly encouraged to vote and make their voice heard. If you have not received your ballot, you can contact your resident county clerk's office. For more information about the proposed project, please visit the school website bond page: https://www.tricountyschools.org/page/bond-info

We are proud to share that Tri County Public Schools has once again earned an EXCELLENT rating through Nebraska’s AQuESTT accountability system—the highest classification a district can receive.

🔹 What is AQuESTT?
AQuESTT (Accountability for a Quality Education System, Today and Tomorrow) is Nebraska’s statewide system that evaluates schools on academic performance and supports the whole child. It blends statewide testing data with indicators like attendance, growth, graduation, and readiness to provide a clear picture of how schools are serving students.

🔹 Academic Highlights for Tri County:
Our students continue to perform well above both the state and our peer districts in multiple subjects:
• ELA Proficiency: 69% (State: 59%, Peers: 63%)
• Math Proficiency: 77% (State: 58%, Peers: 65%)
• Science Proficiency: 88% (State: 80%, Peers: 87%)
• ACT Scores (11th Grade): 76% in ELA & Science, 68% in Math — significantly higher than state averages

Beyond academics, Tri County also maintains:
• 96% attendance (State: 93%)
• 97% four-year graduation rate (State: 88%, Peers: 94%)
• 92% college-going rate (State: 76%)

These results reflect the commitment of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the strong support of our families and community.

We are proud of this accomplishment—and proud to continue the Trojan tradition of excellence. 💙💛
To see the full report click on the link below.
TC AQUESTT Rating

FAQ Friday

Q: Are football field improvements included in this bond?

A: No. Community feedback after the first bond proposal showed lower support for football field upgrades compared to other priorities. Based on that input, the Board removed this component from the current project.

The Board does plan to address basic erosion and maintenance needs in the future using other available funds. Staff impacted by those future site improvements will have opportunities to provide input as planning moves forward.

🔗 https://www.tricountyschools.org/page/bond-info

📬 Only 2 Weeks Left to Return Your Ballot!
Don’t wait—make sure your voice is heard. Ballots must be returned by Dec. 9th at 5 PM.

✅ Tip: The safest and fastest way is to use your local ballot drop box.

Learn more about the proposed bond project at: https://www.tricountyschools.org/page/bond-info

WHY THIS BOND MATTERS

The proposed bond strengthens student learning, safety, and long-term facility needs across the district.

🔹 Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Additions will more than double CTE space, including new Precision Ag, Automotive, and Wood Shops, a maker space and entrepreneurial workshop, a new Art classroom, and a fully restored Family and Consumer Science program.

🔹 Safety and Learning Environment
Main visitor entrances will be redesigned for face-to-face check-in with office staff. Elementary classrooms will gain permanent soundproof walls and doors to reduce noise and improve focus.

🔹 Program Growth and Facilities
Two new preschool classrooms expand early learning. A new primary competition gym, along with updates to entrances, locker rooms, the weight room, and the commons, improves access and usability.

🔹 Auditorium, Music, and Site Updates
The existing auditorium will be remodeled with new seating and a better layout. Music classrooms will be refreshed, and site upgrades will add parking, ADA walkways, and improved connectivity.

Ballots have been mailed. Please return yours as soon as possible. All ballots are due December 9th.

🔗 https://www.tricountyschools.org/page/bond-info

Curious how bond financing options take advantage of cost-savings to benefit taxpayers? Check out this information.

As always, if you still have questions, please don't hesitate reaching out to Superintendent Rottinghaus or any of the board members.

🔗 https://www.tricountyschools.org/page/bond-info