Let's Welcome Ashlyn to BEA!!
Hi, I'm Ashlyn Swenning! I'm from Marshall, Minnesota, and currently work as a CNA/TMA at St. Luke's Care Center, where I care for others and make a difference in my residents' lives.
Volleyball has always been a big part of who I am. I continued my athletic career playing college volleyball at Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minnesota, where I developed a love for teamwork, leadership, and competition that still carries over into my everyday life.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé Logan and our two dogs Bodey and Blu! We're excited to be getting married in August 2027 and are looking forward to building our future together. As an only child, I value the close relationships I've built with family and friends and appreciate the support system they've given me throughout my life.
Whether I'm caring for others, coaching or playing volleyball, or spending time with the people I love, I strive to bring kindness, dedication, and a positive attitude to everything I do.
Hi, I'm Ashlyn Swenning! I'm from Marshall, Minnesota, and currently work as a CNA/TMA at St. Luke's Care Center, where I care for others and make a difference in my residents' lives.
Volleyball has always been a big part of who I am. I continued my athletic career playing college volleyball at Ridgewater College in Willmar, Minnesota, where I developed a love for teamwork, leadership, and competition that still carries over into my everyday life.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my fiancé Logan and our two dogs Bodey and Blu! We're excited to be getting married in August 2027 and are looking forward to building our future together. As an only child, I value the close relationships I've built with family and friends and appreciate the support system they've given me throughout my life.
Whether I'm caring for others, coaching or playing volleyball, or spending time with the people I love, I strive to bring kindness, dedication, and a positive attitude to everything I do.
Monday, August 17, BEA School Board Meeting
Click this link to watch the livestream of this evening's Blue Earth Area School Board meeting at 6:00:
https://boxcast.tv/view/school-board-meeting-8172026-glarpszowckwqk6ojmcw
Click this link to watch the livestream of this evening's Blue Earth Area School Board meeting at 6:00:
https://boxcast.tv/view/school-board-meeting-8172026-glarpszowckwqk6ojmcw
We are excited to report that both referendum questions have passed. We look forward to working with the community on the school’s design and important next steps as we update our facilities to serve our students and the community. Thank you for the support!
There have been questions regarding the Ag2School Credit. Here’s what is important to understand.
The Ag2School credit is realized when the District sells bonds for facilities projects. There are only certain ways a school district can bond for facility projects, and the primary way is through a voter-approved referendum. The school board has studied and determined that the best path forward is to build a new school. This plan is the most fiscally responsible use of funds. Repairing the existing school systems and infrastructure was not moved forward because of the significant investment needed at the existing building and the result would still be too much of the wrong space to heat, clean, and operate, and school spaces in the wrong places, and accessibility challenges with the amount of elevation changes. This information was also included in the June mailer sent to residents.
So, could a voter-approved renovation access Ag2School funds? Yes. Would the school board move this proposal forward to voters? Highly unlikely, given the study results and research to-date. If the board did move this option forward, would the State of Minnesota give a favorable review and comment for a renovation of the existing Blue Earth Elementary School? Also, highly-unlikely given the same study results and research to-date.
So, we know the best path forward, the most cost-effective solution, that will allow the District to access Ag2School funds is what is being proposed.
The Ag2School credit is realized when the District sells bonds for facilities projects. There are only certain ways a school district can bond for facility projects, and the primary way is through a voter-approved referendum. The school board has studied and determined that the best path forward is to build a new school. This plan is the most fiscally responsible use of funds. Repairing the existing school systems and infrastructure was not moved forward because of the significant investment needed at the existing building and the result would still be too much of the wrong space to heat, clean, and operate, and school spaces in the wrong places, and accessibility challenges with the amount of elevation changes. This information was also included in the June mailer sent to residents.
So, could a voter-approved renovation access Ag2School funds? Yes. Would the school board move this proposal forward to voters? Highly unlikely, given the study results and research to-date. If the board did move this option forward, would the State of Minnesota give a favorable review and comment for a renovation of the existing Blue Earth Elementary School? Also, highly-unlikely given the same study results and research to-date.
So, we know the best path forward, the most cost-effective solution, that will allow the District to access Ag2School funds is what is being proposed.
We’ve seen a few questions recently asking why certain district maintenance issues weren't addressed sooner, and we want to share a quick look at how our facility budgeting works! 🏫👇
Every year, our team prioritizes critical repairs based on available funding. To put our facility needs in perspective:
Our District Footprint: 1,119,707 square feet of buildings, parking lots, and athletic fields.
Annual Maintenance Budget: Approximately $350,000.
The Breakdown: That equals roughly $0.31 per square foot per year.
What does that mean in everyday terms? 🏡
For a 2,500-square-foot home, that would be like having an annual maintenance budget of just $775 a year.
While that amount might cover basic upkeep for a little while, it quickly falls short when major expenses hit—like a new roof, water heater, flooring, or major appliances.
We work hard to stretch every dollar to keep our schools safe, functional, and welcoming for our students, and we appreciate your continued support and partnership as we care for our community’s facilities!
Every year, our team prioritizes critical repairs based on available funding. To put our facility needs in perspective:
Our District Footprint: 1,119,707 square feet of buildings, parking lots, and athletic fields.
Annual Maintenance Budget: Approximately $350,000.
The Breakdown: That equals roughly $0.31 per square foot per year.
What does that mean in everyday terms? 🏡
For a 2,500-square-foot home, that would be like having an annual maintenance budget of just $775 a year.
While that amount might cover basic upkeep for a little while, it quickly falls short when major expenses hit—like a new roof, water heater, flooring, or major appliances.
We work hard to stretch every dollar to keep our schools safe, functional, and welcoming for our students, and we appreciate your continued support and partnership as we care for our community’s facilities!
What an incredible week hosting 11 American Exchange Project students in Blue Earth! 🌟
Our visiting students got the ultimate Minnesota experience: hot July weather, lake days, classic fair food, sweet corn, and trips to Niagara Cave, Arnolds Park, and Mall of America. They even jumped into community service with volunteers at HOPE UMC weaving mats made from plastic bags!
While the activities were unforgettable, the real magic was watching strangers become fast friends around the dinner table.
Thank you to all our host families, local businesses, and community members who showed true Minnesota hospitality! We are already looking forward to July 2027! ❤️🙌
#BEABuccaneers #AmericanExchangeProject #CommunityFirst
Our visiting students got the ultimate Minnesota experience: hot July weather, lake days, classic fair food, sweet corn, and trips to Niagara Cave, Arnolds Park, and Mall of America. They even jumped into community service with volunteers at HOPE UMC weaving mats made from plastic bags!
While the activities were unforgettable, the real magic was watching strangers become fast friends around the dinner table.
Thank you to all our host families, local businesses, and community members who showed true Minnesota hospitality! We are already looking forward to July 2027! ❤️🙌
#BEABuccaneers #AmericanExchangeProject #CommunityFirst
AEP Student Spotlight: Devin!! ✈️🎢
Our next American Exchange Project student is Devin, who traveled out east to Chesapeake, Virginia! 🗺️✨
❤️ His favorite highlights?
Devin loved the excitement of exploring somewhere completely new and taking on the big rides at Busch Gardens amusement park! 🎢🎟️
Welcome home, Devin! There's nothing quite like the thrill of visiting new places and hitting a top-tier theme park.
Swipe through to check out Devin's favorite snapshots from his trip! 👇📸
#AmericanExchangeProject #AEPSpotlight #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #ChesapeakeVA #BuschGardens #NewAdventures
Our next American Exchange Project student is Devin, who traveled out east to Chesapeake, Virginia! 🗺️✨
❤️ His favorite highlights?
Devin loved the excitement of exploring somewhere completely new and taking on the big rides at Busch Gardens amusement park! 🎢🎟️
Welcome home, Devin! There's nothing quite like the thrill of visiting new places and hitting a top-tier theme park.
Swipe through to check out Devin's favorite snapshots from his trip! 👇📸
#AmericanExchangeProject #AEPSpotlight #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #ChesapeakeVA #BuschGardens #NewAdventures
Join our Team!
The Fiscal Services Coordinator provides leadership and oversight for the financial operations of the school district. This position is responsible for developing and managing the district's budget, maintaining financial records, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, supervising business office staff, and providing accurate financial reporting to the Superintendent and School Board.
Key responsibilities include overseeing payroll, accounting, purchasing, cash management, audits, investments, insurance programs, negotiations support, capital and long-range financial planning, and required state and federal reporting. The Fiscal Services Coordinator also manages the district's food service program, coordinates school board elections and levy processes, supervises business office personnel, and serves as a financial advisor to district leadership.
The position requires strong leadership, financial management, organizational, and communication skills to ensure the effective stewardship of district resources while supporting the educational mission of the school district.
Candidates for the Fiscal Services Coordinator position should possess the following qualifications:
▪️Minimum of a 4-year degree in Accounting, Finance, and/or Business Administration.
▪️Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience, preferably in a Minnesota school district; or experience in the field of accounting, business management, or school district accounting.
▪️Ability to work with others in a supervisory role, and to effectively delegate.
▪️Strong organizational skills.
▪️Ability to create and deliver public presentations on behalf of the school district.
▪️Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
▪️Willingness to have a flexible work schedule.
▪️Possess sound financial planning characteristics.
Posting closes on August 28, 2026.
Please send cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references with contact information to:
Mandy Fletcher, Superintendent
Blue Earth Area Schools
315 E 6th St
Blue Earth, MN 56013
email: mfletcher@beas.blueearth.k12.mn.us
The Fiscal Services Coordinator provides leadership and oversight for the financial operations of the school district. This position is responsible for developing and managing the district's budget, maintaining financial records, ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations, supervising business office staff, and providing accurate financial reporting to the Superintendent and School Board.
Key responsibilities include overseeing payroll, accounting, purchasing, cash management, audits, investments, insurance programs, negotiations support, capital and long-range financial planning, and required state and federal reporting. The Fiscal Services Coordinator also manages the district's food service program, coordinates school board elections and levy processes, supervises business office personnel, and serves as a financial advisor to district leadership.
The position requires strong leadership, financial management, organizational, and communication skills to ensure the effective stewardship of district resources while supporting the educational mission of the school district.
Candidates for the Fiscal Services Coordinator position should possess the following qualifications:
▪️Minimum of a 4-year degree in Accounting, Finance, and/or Business Administration.
▪️Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience, preferably in a Minnesota school district; or experience in the field of accounting, business management, or school district accounting.
▪️Ability to work with others in a supervisory role, and to effectively delegate.
▪️Strong organizational skills.
▪️Ability to create and deliver public presentations on behalf of the school district.
▪️Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
▪️Willingness to have a flexible work schedule.
▪️Possess sound financial planning characteristics.
Posting closes on August 28, 2026.
Please send cover letter, resume, and 3 professional references with contact information to:
Mandy Fletcher, Superintendent
Blue Earth Area Schools
315 E 6th St
Blue Earth, MN 56013
email: mfletcher@beas.blueearth.k12.mn.us
We hope your weekend was better than ours! 🪣🧽
We know you've heard us talk a lot about the challenges of maintaining our aging PreK-7 building.
Sometimes it's hard to picture what that really means... so we'll keep showing you.
These photos aren't one-time incidents—they're examples of what our staff works around every time heavy rain rolls through. Water coming through basement tunnel walls. Rain driven between aging brick and window systems. Ceiling tiles stained, soaked, and replaced. Buckets, mops, umbrellas, and temporary fixes.
Our maintenance staff continues to attend to these issues, but even their best efforts have limits. Some problems aren't maintenance problems—they're building-age problems.
We know you've heard us talk a lot about the challenges of maintaining our aging PreK-7 building.
Sometimes it's hard to picture what that really means... so we'll keep showing you.
These photos aren't one-time incidents—they're examples of what our staff works around every time heavy rain rolls through. Water coming through basement tunnel walls. Rain driven between aging brick and window systems. Ceiling tiles stained, soaked, and replaced. Buckets, mops, umbrellas, and temporary fixes.
Our maintenance staff continues to attend to these issues, but even their best efforts have limits. Some problems aren't maintenance problems—they're building-age problems.
American Exchange Project Student Spotlight: Grace! ✈️🏛️
Our next American Exchange Project student is Grace, who spent her trip in Washington, D.C.! 🗺️✨
❤️ Her favorite memory?
"Meeting up in the evening with all the American Exchange Project kids and getting to explore Washington, D.C. together. Every day I was able to connect with new people and form new friendships." 🤝🌇
Welcome home, Grace! There's nothing quite like exploring iconic city sights alongside amazing new friends.
Swipe through to check out Grace's favorite snapshots from her D.C. adventure! 👇📸
#AmericanExchangeProject #BUCpride #AEPSpotlight #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #WashingtonDC #LifelongFriendships #BEABuccaneers
Our next American Exchange Project student is Grace, who spent her trip in Washington, D.C.! 🗺️✨
❤️ Her favorite memory?
"Meeting up in the evening with all the American Exchange Project kids and getting to explore Washington, D.C. together. Every day I was able to connect with new people and form new friendships." 🤝🌇
Welcome home, Grace! There's nothing quite like exploring iconic city sights alongside amazing new friends.
Swipe through to check out Grace's favorite snapshots from her D.C. adventure! 👇📸
#AmericanExchangeProject #BUCpride #AEPSpotlight #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #WashingtonDC #LifelongFriendships #BEABuccaneers
Today's weather forecast:
🌧️ Outside: Rain
💧 Inside: Also... rain?
We never expected "strategically placed umbrella" to become standard office décor. ☔😄
When you've got multiple leaks in the Community Ed office & bathroom, the K-7 office, hallways, and around windows, creativity becomes part of the maintenance plan. Our maintenance staff works tirelessly to keep our aging building safe and functional, but with leaks popping up faster than they can be repaired, temporary fixes have become an all-too-familiar sight. Our team keeps patching, repairing, and responding—but some challenges are simply a sign of an aging building. Sometimes a patch is just that—a patch.
🌧️ Outside: Rain
💧 Inside: Also... rain?
We never expected "strategically placed umbrella" to become standard office décor. ☔😄
When you've got multiple leaks in the Community Ed office & bathroom, the K-7 office, hallways, and around windows, creativity becomes part of the maintenance plan. Our maintenance staff works tirelessly to keep our aging building safe and functional, but with leaks popping up faster than they can be repaired, temporary fixes have become an all-too-familiar sight. Our team keeps patching, repairing, and responding—but some challenges are simply a sign of an aging building. Sometimes a patch is just that—a patch.
Join our Team!
Blue Earth Area High School is looking for a passionate High School Spanish Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year! If you're ready to inspire students, build meaningful connections, and make a difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.
Located in Blue Earth, Minnesota at the junction of Interstate 90 and US Highway 169, the Blue Earth Area School District ISD 2860 serves the Southern Minnesota communities of Blue Earth, Frost, Winnebago, Delavan, and Elmore. The district’s mission is to invest in students so they succeed and excel in an ever-changing world.
Check out: www.beaschools.org
Blue Earth Area High School is looking for a passionate High School Spanish Teacher for the 2026–2027 school year! If you're ready to inspire students, build meaningful connections, and make a difference every day, we'd love to hear from you.
Located in Blue Earth, Minnesota at the junction of Interstate 90 and US Highway 169, the Blue Earth Area School District ISD 2860 serves the Southern Minnesota communities of Blue Earth, Frost, Winnebago, Delavan, and Elmore. The district’s mission is to invest in students so they succeed and excel in an ever-changing world.
Check out: www.beaschools.org
American Exchange Project Student Spotlight: Kenzie! ✈️☀️
Our next American Exchange Project student is Kenzie, who soaked up the sun in Naples, Florida! 🏖️🎢
❤️ Her favorite highlights? Thrill rides at Busch Gardens, beach days, dining out, and making connections that matter! 🌴🍔
In Kenzie’s own words:
"American Exchange Trip was genuinely the best experience! It’s a life-changing experience and you get to meet the bestest of friends." 🥹✨
Welcome home, Kenzie! We love seeing how impactful this program is for our students.
Swipe through to check out Kenzie's favorite sunny snapshots! 👇📸
#AmericanExchangeProject #AEPSpotlight #Bucpride #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #NaplesFL #BuschGardens #LifeChangingJourney
Join our Team!
Blue Earth Area Schools is seeking applicants for an Evening Custodian position.
To apply, download an application here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NQtGER6CxcaDg-qJI1Hjld4sT7kwCjGG/view, or stop by the District Office to pick up an application in person.
Learn more about us at beaschools.org.
Blue Earth Area Schools is seeking applicants for an Evening Custodian position.
To apply, download an application here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NQtGER6CxcaDg-qJI1Hjld4sT7kwCjGG/view, or stop by the District Office to pick up an application in person.
Learn more about us at beaschools.org.
American Exchange Project Student Spotlight: Aimee! ✈️🤠
Our next American Exchange Project student is Aimee, who spent her exchange trip in Jasper, Texas! 🗺️✨
❤️ Her favorite memory?
Horseback riding! 🐴🌾 There’s no better way to experience the Lone Star State than hitting the trails!
Welcome home, Aimee! It looks like you had an incredible outdoor adventure in Texas. ☀️🤠
Swipe through to check out Aimee's favorite photos from her trip! 👇📸
#AmericanexchangeProject #AEPSpotlight #Bucpride #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #JasperTX #HorsebackRiding #TexasAdventure
Our next American Exchange Project student is Aimee, who spent her exchange trip in Jasper, Texas! 🗺️✨
❤️ Her favorite memory?
Horseback riding! 🐴🌾 There’s no better way to experience the Lone Star State than hitting the trails!
Welcome home, Aimee! It looks like you had an incredible outdoor adventure in Texas. ☀️🤠
Swipe through to check out Aimee's favorite photos from her trip! 👇📸
#AmericanexchangeProject #AEPSpotlight #Bucpride #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #JasperTX #HorsebackRiding #TexasAdventure
Well, folks, our HVAC unit has officially entered its "leaky drama" era. Again. For the second time in six months, it decided today was a great day for an encore performance of its famous "leak everywhere and quit working" routine. Two times in half a year? That’s real commitment to the craft. 🎭💦
But hey, practicing gratitude here: We are actively choosing to be thankful it’s 90° and humid right now, instead of -20° in a blizzard.
But hey, practicing gratitude here: We are actively choosing to be thankful it’s 90° and humid right now, instead of -20° in a blizzard.
SCHEDULE UPDATE: This meeting has been rescheduled for Monday, August 10 | 7:00 pm | BEA High School PAC
🏐It's time to start thinking about Fall Sports! 🏈🎾🏃
Parents and guardians of students in grades 7–12 are invited to attend the BEA Fall Athletics Parent Meeting on Monday, August 10, at 7:00 PM in the BEAHS Performing Arts Center.
This meeting will cover important information to help your student-athlete prepare for the upcoming fall season.
🏈Football families: Equipment handout for students in grades 9–12 will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 5:00 PM.
Learn more about BEA Athletics at beaschools.org/o/beahs/page/athletics or call 507-526-3201 with questions.
We look forward to seeing you there!
🏐It's time to start thinking about Fall Sports! 🏈🎾🏃
Parents and guardians of students in grades 7–12 are invited to attend the BEA Fall Athletics Parent Meeting on Monday, August 10, at 7:00 PM in the BEAHS Performing Arts Center.
This meeting will cover important information to help your student-athlete prepare for the upcoming fall season.
🏈Football families: Equipment handout for students in grades 9–12 will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 5:00 PM.
Learn more about BEA Athletics at beaschools.org/o/beahs/page/athletics or call 507-526-3201 with questions.
We look forward to seeing you there!
AEP Student Spotlight: Sydney! ✈️🐬
Our next American Exchange Project student is Sydney, who headed east to Norfolk, Virginia! 🗺️✨
❤️ Her favorite highlights?
Sydney fit so much awesome stuff into her trip! She loved visiting nearby Washington, D.C., going on an unforgettable dolphin ride 🐬, and meeting so many amazing new people along the way! 🏛️🤝
Welcome home, Sydney! It sounds like an absolute trip of a lifetime.
Check out Sydney's favorite photos from her adventure below! 👇📸
#AEPSpotlight #AmericanExchangeProject #Bucpride #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #NorfolkVA #DCBound #DolphinBoatTour
Our next American Exchange Project student is Sydney, who headed east to Norfolk, Virginia! 🗺️✨
❤️ Her favorite highlights?
Sydney fit so much awesome stuff into her trip! She loved visiting nearby Washington, D.C., going on an unforgettable dolphin ride 🐬, and meeting so many amazing new people along the way! 🏛️🤝
Welcome home, Sydney! It sounds like an absolute trip of a lifetime.
Check out Sydney's favorite photos from her adventure below! 👇📸
#AEPSpotlight #AmericanExchangeProject #Bucpride #BlueEarthArea #StudentExchange #NorfolkVA #DCBound #DolphinBoatTour
🎡 Hey, Bucs! Is your project at the county fair this week? 🌟
Whether you've been raising livestock, baking, building, sewing, gardening, or creating anything amazing, we want to see it!
Show off your hard work a little—drop a photo of your project (and your ribbons, too! 🏅) in the comments. We can't wait to celebrate all of the incredible things our BEA students have accomplished at the fair this week.
Good luck to everyone exhibiting this week, and have fun at the fair! 🎠🌽🐄
Whether you've been raising livestock, baking, building, sewing, gardening, or creating anything amazing, we want to see it!
Show off your hard work a little—drop a photo of your project (and your ribbons, too! 🏅) in the comments. We can't wait to celebrate all of the incredible things our BEA students have accomplished at the fair this week.
Good luck to everyone exhibiting this week, and have fun at the fair! 🎠🌽🐄
🏈It's time to start thinking about Fall Sports! 🏐🎾🏃
Parents and guardians of students in grades 7–12 are invited to attend the BEA Fall Athletics Parent Meeting on Tuesday, August 11, at 7:00 PM in the BEAHS Performing Arts Center.
This meeting will cover important information to help your student-athlete prepare for the upcoming fall season.
🏈Football families: Equipment handout for students in grades 9–12 will be held on Thursday, August 6, at 5:00 PM.
Learn more about BEA Athletics at beaschools.org/o/beahs/page/athletics or call 507-526-3201 with questions.
We look forward to seeing you there!
