Prairie River Middle School Facilities Study
This school year, Merrill Area Public Schools will begin an important process - a comprehensive study of Prairie River Middle School’s facility needs and future.
Prairie River Middle School (PRMS), originally built in 1922, has been expanded several times and holds a special place in the Merrill community. Many residents remember attending school there themselves, and its historic presence in the heart of town—next to landmarks like the T.B. Scott Library, the Three Arched Bridge, and Stange’s Park—makes it a symbol of both tradition and pride.
While the school’s exterior charm is undeniable, maintaining a functional, modern learning environment inside a 100-year-old building is becoming increasingly challenging. Systems such as HVAC, air handling, and electrical capacity are outdated, making both everyday operations and potential upgrades difficult and costly. Recent flooding also highlighted how unexpected issues can impact the building’s infrastructure.
This year, MAPS will be taking a closer look at what it would take to keep Prairie River Middle School viable as a modern-day learning environment. The study will help us:
Identify and prioritize needed repairs and renovations
Evaluate long-term costs
Weigh the value of updating the current building versus the possibility of new
construction
Throughout the process, the district is committed to involving the community. Your voice will be essential in shaping the future of Prairie River Middle School, ensuring that any plan reflects the needs and values of Merrill residents.
We are committed to keeping you informed as this process moves forward.
District Annual Meeting and Budget Hearing
The Merrill Area Public Schools will hold its Annual Meeting and Budget Hearing on Monday, September 15, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. in the Merrill High School Auditorium.
This meeting is a unique opportunity for district residents—those eligible to vote in school district elections—to play an active role in shaping the future of our schools. As an elector, you’ll have the chance to:
Approve the tax levy for the 2025–2026 school year
Authorize payment of actual and necessary expenses for board members
Direct the board to provide school lunches for students and appropriate funds
Your voice and vote matter, and we invite you to be part of this important community event. We look forward to seeing you there!
Warm regards,
Shannon Murray
Superintendent of Schools
Merrill Area Public Schools