(PDF) 10.21.25 Press Release - "ASB Building to Become ASB Pre-K Center Fall 2026"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 21, 2025

For more information, contact:
Paula Lankford
Director of Public Relations
Williston Basin School District #7
(701) 651-1203
paula.lankford@willistonschools.org

ASB Building to Become ASB Pre-K Center Fall 2026

Williston, N.D., (October 21, 2025) – Williston Basin School District #7 will repurpose the ASB Building on Williston Middle School Central Campus as the ASB Pre-K Center, which will open in Fall 2026.

This change is part of the district’s long-term facilities plan and aligns with the return of fifth graders to their elementary schools in Fall 2026, when the district’s new elementary school, Sloulin Elementary School, opens. This transition is considered best practice for student learning and development and will create space for the new Pre-K Center by freeing approximately 400 seats on the Central Campus.

No changes will occur to the use of the ASB Building during the 2025–2026 school year. The building will continue to serve its current purpose while planning and preparation take place for the transition to the ASB Pre-K Center in Fall 2026. The Williston Middle School Central Campus staff have been involved in the decision and planning for this change. Classes currently housed in the ASB Building will move to the Bakken and Coyote Centers, bringing all 6–8 classes and students together under one roof in Fall 2026.

Once complete, the ASB Pre-K Center will bring all district Pre-K programs together in one building, creating a dedicated environment for early learning and collaboration among staff.

“The ASB Pre-K Center is another important step in our ongoing facilities plan to align space with student needs,” said Superintendent Dr. Jason Germundson. “This project, together with the opening of Sloulin Elementary School, reflects our continued focus on creating the best possible learning environments for all students, from Pre-K through graduation.”

The district worked closely with American State Bank (ASB) and other major donors who contributed generously to the original building. Donors expressed strong support for the new purpose and enthusiasm for how the ASB Pre-K Center will serve young learners in the community.

The ASB Pre-K Center will open at the start of the 2026–2027 school year, helping the district meet the community’s growing need for early childhood education and daycare while potentially expanding opportunities for programs such as Head Start, staff daycare, and CTE work-based learning.

A webpage with more information, including a video overview featuring Superintendent Dr. Germundson and Pre-K Director Kenzi Brown is available at WillistonSchools.org/asb-prek

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