Packer Profile: A clear strategy for student success
By Dr. Joey Page Superintendent, Austin Public Schools
At Austin Public Schools, we are focused on preparing all learners to make a difference in the world.
The Packer Profile is the district’s framework for doing that work intentionally from early learning through graduation. It connects learning, -world experiences so students do not just move through school but graduate with direction and
One key component is Career Pathways. Students are introduced to careers early through field trips and community partnerships. In middle school, they explore interests through hands-on learning in Project Lead The Way (PLTW) and Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses.
In high school, students take the next step through focused planning and exploration. This includes tools and experiences, such as career-oriented programs; interest inventories; college and career visits; FAFSA support;
academic planning; and guidance through college and scholarship applications through Schoolinks.
This structure helps students understand their options and make informed decisions about college, careers, training or service after high school.
Packer Profile connects learning across years and experiences while giving families/caregivers a clearer picture of how academics, career exploration and planning fit together.
This work reflects long-term thinking. It connects what students are learning today to where they are going next and helps ensure they graduate prepared, not just academically, but personally and professionally.
We are proud of the work happening in our schools and grateful for the support of families/caregivers and our community.
Together, we help students build a future with purpose, confidence and opportunity.
By Dr. Joey Page Superintendent, Austin Public Schools
Austin High juniors attend a career fair in March in Hastings Gym.
An aerial view of Southgate Elementary School in southwest Austin.
By Taylor Flugge Program coordinator, Austin Assurance
By Karem Salas Ramirez United Way of Mower County
By Laura Jertson Teacher of the Year for Austin Public Schools
Thank you to Austin Public Schools for letting me celebrate my joy of teaching and learning with the Teacher of the Year Award.
By Glen Morris
How to follow city council meetings
transportation infrastructure.
Planned work includes many projects throughout the county for pavement rehabilitation and bridge replacement.
• County Road 3 U.S. 218 to County Road 7 (pavement rehabilitation)
In addition to these projects, Mower County maintenance crews will be working throughout the construction season on routine and preventive maintenance on county roads, bridges and culverts.
These improvements are part of the county’s ongoing effort to preserve pavement quality and extend the roadway system’s service life.
• County Road 16 County Road 2 to CR 57 (pavement rehabilitation)
Construction activities might result in temporary detours, lane closures and delays throughout the season.
• County Road 5 bridge replacement
• 505th Avenue bridge replacement in Lyle Township
• 210th Street bridge replacement in
Mower County Highway Department encourages the public to slow down, pay attention and use caution when traveling through work zones.
For more information, visit Mower County Highway Department’s website: co.mower.mn.us/197/Highway
1st Half is DUE May 15
How to Pay?
ONLINE: www.co.mower.mn.us/208/Property-Tax-Payment-Options
By Rodney Streich Mower County Veterans Service Officer
PHONE: Call 507-437-9535. Provide your bank routing and bank account number (e-check) or use a debit or credit card and provide your parcel ID number printed on your tax statement.
IN-PERSON:
DROP BOX: Available 24/7 just outside the Government Center’s main entrance/Law Enforcement Center on the building’s northwest side.
MAIL:
Please include your payment stub(s) from your property tax statement(s) with your check. If mailing less than 5 business days before the due date, be sure to get a hand-stamped postmark at your local post office.
On April 6, Mower County opened additional public entrances for the Government Center at 201 1st Street NE, in Austin.
Building entrances on the north side (Door #2 along 2nd Ave NE) and on the east side (Door #3 from 1st St NE) now are open to the public from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mondays to Fridays. Please note the main entrance (Door #1) from the Government Center’s parking lot on the northwest side is the only ADA-accessible entry.
By Scott Felten Mower County Auditor-Treasurer
By Scott Felten Mower County Auditor-Treasurer
an election year, with the Primary Election on Tuesday, Aug. 11, and the General Election on Tuesday, Nov. 3.
For federal, state, judicial and county offices up for election, the candidate filing period will run from Tuesday, May 19, through Tuesday, June 2. County offices (all four-year terms) up for election in 2026 include:
By Scott Felten Mower County Auditor-Treasurer
