October 2023

“Setting Goals at PLMS”

Mike O'Neil, Middle School Principal

 

Goal setting is a way of life in the public school setting.  Districts set goals, buildings set goals, teachers set goals, and we challenge our students to do so as well.  Pequot Lakes Middle School enters the 2023-24 school year with our eyes focused on improvement in three core areas.  

Our first goal on the 5-8 campus is associated with helping our grade-level cohorts to increase the trajectory of their academic success.  What we mean by that is, research tells us that for every day that goes by on the calendar, students will grow.  Point toward the impact of maturation, or learning to navigate the world around us; everyone becomes a bit more wise with every day that passes.  Our academic goal for PLMS in 2023-24 is set to increase student achievement in each cohort’s (e.g. the graduating class of 2031) Math and Reading scores on both our statewide MCA and also on our in-house assessment series called the STAR test.  We hope to create a positive inflection point of 3% growth, or more, in their achievement through intense support during Homeroom and best first instructional practices in our core classroom settings.  

The second goal for this school year is anchored in some feedback our students shared last spring.  In polling our student body, 87% of our students report that they feel supported by our staff.  Though we feel great about this data, we aim to improve this metric to 90% when we ask that same question later this year.  A more concerning data point came from the same question with one word adjusted.  When asked the prompt about “I feel supported by my peers,” our student body poll showed that only 63% of our kids feel supported by their classmates.  We can blame adolescent development; we can blame phones or social media; we can point the finger in a multitude of directions.  Regardless, this data is something that we need to work on.  In response, PLMS is doubling down on our existing structures built around character education, and adding some new components to help this number to climb to what we hope will be 70% or more in the spring.

Our last goal focuses on the strategic use of our Homeroom period of the day.  The Middle School Model is anchored in a portion of the day called “Homeroom” or “Advisory.”  By design, this time period is intended to create time and space for students and staff to make a strong connection.

From their interests and hobbies to their learning profile, it is our hope that this 25-minute period of each day gives kids what they need to be successful.  In 2023-24, we are looking to revamp the student experience in Homeroom.  From growing the love of reading through quiet reading in a book of student choice for all, to diving in on a reteaching of a Math lesson a kid didn’t quite get the first time, we are hoping to make this window of the school day even more impactful than it already is.  

The Pequot Lakes Schools take deep pride in growing our students.  We unite with our parents and guardians to accept the enormous role that we both play in the development of the kids in our community.

September 2023

“GLAPA's 40th Season:  A look back at our start”

Joell Tvedt, Community Education Director

 

This Fall marks the 40th season of Pequot Lakes Community Theatre. We are kicking off this milestone with a very special production called Enchanted April. Opening the evening of Thursday, October 5 in the Pequot Lakes High School Auditorium, this charming, romantic comedy is the story of two London housewives feeling lost in the shadows of marriage and forgotten in the rush of the 1920s post-war society. Together with a pair of difficult upper-class women, they pool their savings to rent a villa in Italy for a ladies-only holiday. 

 

Forty years is a long time for a community theatre to thrive. Just think about the dedication, commitment, and number of volunteer hours, not to mention the tens of thousands of people who have enjoyed our shows!

 

To celebrate this historic occasion, we have brought back some of the key people who were there from the beginning. Cumulatively, with hundreds of years of performing arts experience, the cast and crew involved with this production are simply magnificent! In addition, we will be showcasing costumes, favorite memories, and photos from the past 40 seasons throughout the run of Enchanted April. 

 

Our community theatre has sparked countless interest in young actors over the years. It has been the place where people have gotten their start in theater and honed their artistic craft. It has proven to be a place where our community finds quality entertainment right in their backyard.

 

Getting its start back in 1984, the Pequot Lakes Community Theatre was born after conversations about the high school auditorium being underutilized. A relatively new auditorium at the time, built in 1979, it only made sense to fill the space with something that would benefit the community. So, the school district contacted Judy Larsen and others who put together the very first Pequot Lakes Community Theatre production called Bits of Broadway. 

 

In the beginning, actors purchased and made their own costumes. Directors paid for their own shows. Set supplies and props were donated by the community and stored in people's homes and outbuildings. Over time, the school district was able to offer storage for these items. Through community and individual donations, along with grants from the Five Wings Arts Council and other entities, our community theater eventually had a small budget, allowing production teams to be hired for each show and show-specific items to be purchased.

 

As the idea of a community theater evolved, contract shows with various artists helped to fill the auditorium. This is where the name Greater Lakes Area Performing Arts (GLAPA) emerged. We were more than just a theater, offering up to three theater productions each year, along with three to four contracted shows. People were coming from all over the area and state to enjoy the entertainment we provided. Not only were they coming for the show, but they were shopping in our town and eating in our restaurants.

As I reflect on the history of our community theatre and write this article, I am purposely leaving out the names of those involved in getting us to where we are today. There have simply been so many individuals who have positively made an impact on the success of our community theatre over the years and I don’t want to leave anyone out. If you are reading this and you are one of those people, THANK YOU. Your time, generosity, and commitment to the arts in this community is invaluable. Without your dedication and passion for performing arts, our community theater would not have made it to this remarkable milestone.

     

September 2023

“Patriot-Vision.org”

Kurt Stumpf, Superintendent

 

The Pequot Lakes School District has launched Patriot-Vision.org, a website to provide our community with information on the upcoming capital projects levy and facilities bond referendum.  The website provides:

– A detailed list of improvements to support outstanding education and a positive learning experience.

– Information on the community-led process that helped inform the school board’s recommendation for the proposed plan. 

– An overview of the plan and the two ballot questions the district is asking voters to consider on November 7.

– A tax calculator to determine your estimated monthly tax impact.

– Voting information and additional resources such as the site improvement plan and frequently asked questions.

A question that I have received from community members is, “What are the specific projects included in the bond referendum?” Below are some highlights of the projects:

Safety & Security - There is roughly $21 million budgeted for projects including roofing, HVAC units (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning), electrical/mechanical system upgrades, sidewalks, enhanced secure entrances and door modifications at all campus facility entrances, moving the high school office to a more central location, fencing around playgrounds, improved zoning and a sidewalk from Oak Street to secondary campus by the baseball field, addressing County Road 11 concerns at the Eagle View site, and reconfiguring parking and traffic flow at both the elementary and secondary campus.  Upgrades to the kitchen areas would include a remodeling of the secondary site serving area to increase efficiency and flow of student traffic during breakfast and lunch, and adding food storage space (freezer, cooler and dry) at both the elementary and secondary sites.    

Career and Technical Education (CTE) - There is roughly $9 million budgeted for CTE projects that include new spaces for robotics, technology, woods/metals and culinary arts with updates to the current FACS (Family and Consumer Science) and woods/metals spaces.  

Educational Upgrades - There is roughly $35 million budgeted for educational updates that include new Early Childhood spaces at Eagle View, additional classrooms at the grades 5-12 campus, a new 750-seat auditorium, remodeling and expanding of the grades 5-12 commons area, and a middle school multi-purpose area. Also included in the plan are updated outdoor spaces that include two new softball fields and two new baseball fields built off-site, resurfacing the track, relocating fields and track zones to better utilize outdoor spaces, a new tennis court, and new bleachers around the track.    

I encourage everyone to visit Patriot-Vision.org to learn more about how the capital projects levy and bond referendum would invest in our students and our schools. Thank you for the continued support.

August 2023
“MN Free School Meals Program”
Patty Buell, Food Services Director 

On March 17, 2023, Governor Walz signed the MN Free School Meals bill into law. The MN Free School Meals Program provides state reimbursement to schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program so that students can have one school breakfast and one school lunch at school per day at no cost. In simple terms, it means every student receives a free breakfast and lunch every day!

Even though meals are free for students, it is important for families to complete the Application for Educational Benefits form.  Applications for Educational Benefits determine how much funding your child’s school receives for educational programs and supports. Additionally, eligible families can qualify for other benefits including waived deposits for Chromebooks, reduced sports fees, reduced fees for community education programs/classes as well as reduced fees for early childhood programs/classes.

Forms can be found on the school website (Departments>Food Services) and on the school’s student information system using your Infinite Campus Parent Portal.  Paper versions are available in each school office.

Please fill out a form to help our schools receive funding and possibly qualify your family for additional benefits.

Feel free to reach out to Patty Buell with any questions at: pbuell@isd186.org

May 2023

“Facilities Planning”

Kurt Stumpf, Superintendent

 

The Pequot Lakes School Board is continuing to explore options in formulating a long-term facility plan.  The main purpose of the facilities planning process is to ensure that the district has a comprehensive long-range facilities plan in order to be fiscally responsible and to meet the needs of our students.  At the board meeting on May 15, 2023, the school board voted to direct the Superintendent to formulate a recommendation for a date, scope, amount, financing, and ballot language for a facilities bond election.  The school board will spend the next board meetings discussing the recommendation.  Below is an overview of the facility process timeline.  

January 2022 - The Pequot Lakes School District published a Request for Proposals for facility planning.  There were two main components of the facilities planning: (1) Facilities Assessment; and (2) Long-Range Facility Plan.  

March - April 2022 - Six firms officially submitted a proposal in response to the RFP.  Three firms were interviewed by a district committee of nine people, which included students, staff and community members, and a school board member.  After the interview, reference checks and contract negotiations, the school district partnered with ATSR, an architectural and engineering firm.

May 2022 - ATSR representatives met with students from grades 3 - 12 as well as teams of staff from early childhood, elementary, middle school, and high school.  All staff were also given the opportunity to answer facility survey questions.

June 2022 - August 2022 - ATSR engineers and architects conducted site visits evaluating the current conditions of all aspects of Pequot Lakes School District facilities.

August 2022 - ATSR presented their findings on facility maintenance and prioritized the maintenance needs based on the current buildings and facilities.  There were about 7M in high priority, 12M in medium priority, and 3M in low priority needs.

September 2022 - The Facilities Planning Team (FPT) kicked off a 5-meeting series to review the current facility assessments and to work through a process in order to prioritize current and future facility needs.  The FPT was charged with providing a recommendation for a long-range comprehensive plan for district-wide priorities and baseline needs for our facilities to the school board.

October 2022 - Hazel Reinhart presented an enrollment study to the school board.

January 2023 - Amelia Reynolds and Jobey Tvedt, two Pequot Lakes School District students on the FPT, presented the committee’s recommendation to the school board, which included 35 items ranging from maintenance needs, updating some current facility areas, and building some classrooms and an auditorium.

At the regular school board meeting on January 23, 2023, Michael Hart from PMA Securities presented financial information.  PMA Securities is the District's financial advisor.  The presentation included a review of the current tax base, outstanding bond debt, and options and information for facility upgrades.

March 2023 - The Pequot Lakes School Board received an update at the board meeting regarding the FPT recommendations.  Additional follow-up information was requested from school board members on various aspects of the facilities plan.  The school board meeting involved discussion only and no formal school board actions were taken. 

April 2023 - At the regular board meeting on April 17, 2023, the School Board received updated cost estimates for the proposed facility improvements and updated financial information.

May 2023 - At the board work session on May 1, 2023, the School Board received a report on a Capital Projects Levy option and updated financial information prepared by Michael Hart, PMA Director.

Community members are encouraged to visit the District’s website to learn more about the facilities planning process (www.isd186.org → District → Facilities Study).  Thank you for the continued support of Pequot Lakes School District students.

May 2023

“Support a Patriot Tradition - Fitness Center Improvement Project”

Byron Westrich, Activities Director

 

The Pequot Lakes School District is seeking donations to upgrade its weight room equipment.  There has been a steady growth in the number of students who utilize the weight room. Increased enrollment and increased interest have created a need to update the equipment and layout so that more students can work out.  The weight room is open every morning with roughly 15-25 students lifting before school even starts for the day.  During the day, we often have at least one physical education class in the weight room.  We do have enough room for two classes to lift at once but we don’t have enough equipment for those sixty students. 

 

The size of the weight room does fit our needs and it is in a perfect location, near the locker rooms, access to the indoor running track, and close to the athletic center; however, with more student use needed during the day and the increased use before and after school, it is time to improve the layout and upgrade the equipment inside the room so that more students can work out at the same time.  In addition, the vision for our Strength and Conditioning Coach is to work with all of our athletic teams so they can lift twice a week while they are in season.  Currently, our teams find they must lift before school in order to have enough room for everyone to get in these twice-a-week sessions.

 

Our current weight room only has four places to bench press, squat and clean.  These are the big-three lifts that students use when training.  We also only have one dumbbell area, one place to use a lat pulldown or a seated cable row.  These areas often have a line of students waiting to use these lifts. Many of our older students are starting to pay for memberships with area facilities because they are tired of waiting for equipment to open up.  We need to change this so all of our students can lift within our facilities, to create a better sense of pride and cohesiveness by lifting together. 

 

The initial part of this project is to change the room name from our weight room to the Fitness Center.  The name change is more user-friendly, and it seems more welcoming to all students to train and work out, rather than just those who want to lift weights.  Our proposed plan will give us sixteen areas to bench, clean, and squat.  Each station will be equipped with a bench that is mobile so students can bench, use dumbbells, and raise the bench for inclines, making these areas practical for a group of students to get in and work out in just one area.  On the other side of this is either a lat pulldown and seated cable row or an inverse curl machine that is state-of-the-art for training explosive leg power.  This setup with our equipment will allow more of our students to work out at the same time.  We can have multiple classes at once during the day.  We will be able to have all of our teams work out in this facility during the season, to create more competitive teams, to be better prepared for injury prevention, and to create that team atmosphere that is desired. The new equipment will be branded with school colors, with Patriot logos, creating more school pride.  The new equipment layout will also facilitate our students that are handicapped or injured to be able to work out.

We are seeking donations from the community and businesses to support this outstanding improvement for our students.  We know this improvement will help all of our students improve their mental health, increase physical strength, help prevent injuries, and give them an athletic edge when competing.  The donation goal to improve the Fitness Center equipment is $300,000.  There are various levels of sponsorships, from Patriot Level ($50,000 or more) to Barbell Level ($499 or less).  All donations are welcome and can be submitted online through our District website (click on Payment Portal and then Donations), or mailed directly to Pequot Lakes Schools, Attn: Fitness Center Project, 30805 Olson Street, Pequot Lakes, MN 56472.

Thank you for your support!  Go Patriots!

April 2023

“Naloxone in the School Setting”

Tracy Princivalli, RN, LSN, NCSN - School District Nurse

 

In response to the rising opioid overdose deaths, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and the Minnesota Department of Education collaborated with School Nurse leaders across the state to develop a toolkit for schools to implement policies and procedures in school districts across the state to be better prepared to handle an opioid overdose emergency.

 

According to the MDH in 2021, an average of four Minnesotans died each day from a drug overdose. Opioid-involved overdose deaths among Minnesotans increased by 43% from 2020 to 2021, and the number of deaths has more than doubled since 2019. The continued increase in opioid-related deaths is thought to be driven by the availability of synthetic opioids (e.g., fentanyl), psychostimulants (e.g., methamphetamine), and cocaine. One might think that is only an inner-city problem; however, data shows that for the first time since 2014, a larger percent increase occurred in Greater Minnesota than in the Twin Cities metro area. Overdoses are most often accidental and can occur with the use of legally prescribed medications. 

 

Naloxone or Narcan (brand name) is an opioid antagonist that will temporarily reverse deadly respiratory depression experienced by an opioid overdose. When administered quickly and effectively, Naloxone can immediately restore breathing to a victim experiencing an opioid overdose and prevent death. The medication can be given by intranasal spray (into the nose), intramuscular (into the muscle), subcutaneous (under the skin), or intravenous injection. There is no potential for addiction or other misuse of Naloxone. Naloxone is not a controlled substance. 

 

While Naloxone is life-saving for suspected opioid overdose, there are other health conditions that may have similar symptoms in emergency situations, such as diabetic ketoacidosis, hypothermia, and stroke. If Naloxone is mistakenly given to someone not actually experiencing an opioid overdose, it will not harm them, but it also will not help the person, and 911 should always be called when Naloxone is given. Shallow or absent breathing is a hallmark sign of opioid overdose, leading to decreased oxygen in the body that can result in heart attack and eventually death. Opioid ingestion can be confirmed once the victim is alert, but Naloxone treatment can begin immediately anytime an opioid overdose is suspected, without fear of causing harm.

 

The new Naloxone toolkit provides Minnesota school districts with standard information and recommendations for policy and emergency procedure development, the role of medical providers for standing orders/protocols and prescriptions, resources for obtaining Naloxone medication, resources for education and training and recovery/referral resources to meet the needs of those who are at risk or who have experienced an overdose. 

 

The Minnesota School Board Association (MSBA) offers a sample of policy language for the administration of Naloxone in schools (MSBA Model Policy 516.5). Our school board is currently reviewing the information and collaborating with School Nursing staff, Superintendent Stumpf, and School Resource Officer Sheri Fyle to create and adopt a policy that will ensure Pequot Lakes Schools are the best prepared to treat opioid-related overdoses if they occur with our students, staff, or visitors.

April 2023

“Language is an Asset”

Megan Zierden, HRS Coach & EL Teacher

 

Multilingual Learner (ML) refers to all children and youth who are, or have been, consistently exposed to multiple languages.  This asset-based term comes from the World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment (WIDA) consortium.  The state of Minnesota uses the term English Learner (EL) in reference to the learner or instructional program, so ML and EL are often used interchangeably in place of other terminology used in the past (LEP, ESL, ELL).

 

The work done with multilingual learners is based on WIDA standards and these standards are rooted in WIDA’s Can Do Philosophy.  Can Do Descriptors are a tool to help educators meet students where they are in their language development.  They are set up like steps so each proficiency level includes and builds on previous levels.  The goal is to build towards independence.    

 

The Pequot Lakes School district historically has had fewer than 10 students each year who receive English Learner (EL) services.  As an EL teacher, I ask myself, “What can the student do and what does he/she need in order to reach the next step?”  If students have similar needs at similar ages, I group them together.  If this isn’t the case, then I support students individually.  Much of our time together focuses on vocabulary and language structures that build listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.  The important thing is to do this work while still staying relevant to the students’ grade level and content.  As students get into high school,  we also work on building confidence and self-advocacy.  Here are some comments students made about our time together: “It’s helpful ‘cause I can get a lot more work done.”; “Good.  I like the word games.”; “It’s great.  It’s very helpful and you pretty much build a bond before we work on studying”. 

 

Along with asset-based and Can Do approaches, we must remember that students who continue to be fluent in their first language do better with English proficiency as well.  Because of this, students and their families are encouraged to use their home languages, including but not limited to the following: telling stories, singing, reading, or having discussions.  These types of activities support student language development.  As stated on the WIDA Family Connections through Home Languages flier, “Rich cultural and linguistic interactions can bolster children’s sense of themselves and their primary language skills. Children can master a language and academic learning when their primary language and culture are stronger.”  These types of fliers are available in several languages so educators, like myself, can send home resources that families will understand.

 

All of these things are important, but we must be willing to embrace the idea that language, any language, is an asset.  When students come to us with a limited experience in English, we must remember that the language they do have is a foundation to build on and so are the experiences that come from that language.  Being a multilingual learner is truly a gift and I remind my students of this often.

April 2023

“April is Testing Season in Minnesota Schools”

Travis Raske, Director of Teaching & Learning

 

Pequot Lakes School District students will be taking the MCA and ACT tests this month alongside other districts throughout the state.  Schools utilize the MCA test to monitor and measure student progress towards the Minnesota state academic standards. The purpose of the ACT test is to measure a student’s readiness for college and it is one component of the application process.  

 

While recognizing that a single test score does not define or completely measure a student's capabilities, testing has become an integral part of the educational process, providing students and teachers with valuable feedback on effective curriculum, instructional practices, and learning.

 

For schools, testing is an important way to measure student learning and evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs. It can help identify areas where additional resources or services may be needed, and it can also provide data that can be used to set school and building-level goals. Standardized tests are valuable for tracking overall student achievement at the school level. Many school districts use these tests to compare student performance on a state or national level, helping to identify both strengths and weaknesses across different schools. 

 

For students, testing provides a way to measure their academic progress, which can be used to help them set goals and assess their strengths or areas of needed support. The score can help to demonstrate a student’s academic progress and can also be used as a measure of college and career readiness. ACT scores are shared to students’ accounts a month after testing; MCA scores are shared with families in August.

 

The MCA test is given in grades 3 through 8 and 10 in reading, grades 3 through 8 and 11 in math, and grades 5, 8, and 10 in science. The ACT test is offered to 11th graders within our school and students are encouraged to take it more than once in preparation for college entrance. 

 

Did you know that Minnesota statute has capped districtwide testing at 11 hours or less per year, depending on grade level? This equates to students spending less than 1% of their time on tests each year.

 

While testing is a valuable comparison tool, it is important to remember that tests do not measure the whole child. They do not measure a student's creativity, work ethic, social skills, or other important qualities essential to be a productive member of the community. Therefore, it is important to recognize that Pequot Lakes schools do not rely solely on the score from one test.  Rather, we look to foster strengths in many areas and recognize students for their talents.

 

Overall, these are summative assessments and we triangulate this data with many other forms of assessment to best understand the academic needs of the student and respond to what they know, what they don't know, and how we can best meet their needs to reach state standards.  Standardized tests are a valuable resource for measuring student achievement and helping to guide academic decisions.  By providing a consistent and objective assessment of student performance, these tests can be a powerful tool for educators, administrators, and families.

 

Five test-taking tips that will help students perform at their best: 1) get a good night’s sleep; 2) eat a healthy breakfast; 3) dress confidently; 4) arrive early with necessary materials; and 5) smile, you are going to do great!

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March 2023

“Achievements & Opportunities”

Kurt Stumpf, Superintendent

 

It’s hard to believe but we are already making plans for end-of-year activities.  There has been, continues to be, and we are still planning many activities and exciting opportunities for our students and community.  Below are some highlights.

 

Achievements  

Pequot Lakes students have competed and achieved at impressive levels, such as:  Minnesota Class AA State Runner-up in Volleyball; One-Act Play advancing from Sub-sections to Sections for the first time in many years; Robotics team winning Regionals again and advancing to the World Competition and the State Tournament; the Roadcrew Wrestling team and individuals earning a trip to the State Tournament; and the Boys Basketball team advancing to State competition.

 

Opportunities  

Pequot Lakes students have enjoyed many opportunities provided by dedicated staff who plan events, as well as supportive parents and community.  Some of these awesome opportunities include: all 6th-grade students having the opportunity to attend a 3-day overnight Wolf Ridge trip; elementary students participating in the PTA Color Run; high school students taking part in a Career Fair; elementary students having an all-school Bingo with prizes from PTA; middle school students taking a day trip to Nisswa on their bikes; as well as many other field trips and awesome classroom experiences.  

 

Facilities

The school district is partnering with ATSR for an educational facility assessment and long-range planning services.  The educational facility assessment provides a district inventory of all assets, including roofing, HVAC, electrical, and interior finishes.  The inventory includes a cost and timeline for replacement.  The second component of the facilities study, long-range planning, has included stakeholder input on future educational needs and long-range planning.  The school board continues to receive and discuss information relating to facilities planning.  Please view the Facilities Study webpage (www.isd186.org → District → Facilities Study) for up-to-date information.

 

Safe Routes to School

A group of roughly 15 school, city, county, and community members have met monthly to evaluate the ways our students get to and from school, as well as how to improve the safety of those walking and biking routes.  There have been multiple surveys, observations, walk audits, and other ways to gather information throughout the process.  The committee will be finalizing a plan in May that will be shared with the community, school board, and local city councils.   

 

Thank you for the continued support of the Pequot Lakes School District this year.  

March 2023

“American Indian Education Program Celebrates Indigenous Culture”

Lisa Christensen, AIE Coordinator

 

The MN Department of Education established the American Indian Education (AIE) Act in 1972  with a mission “to strengthen and promote positive experiences and educational outcomes for American Indian students statewide.” In addition, they provide funding and guidance for school districts across the state.

The Pequot Lakes AIE Program focuses on academic support, college and career readiness opportunities, and cultural experiences that affirm and value students’ Indigenous identity. Most recently, students and their families were invited to a Family Night where they built an Anishinaabe drum set made from real cowhide. 

The drums are more than a percussion instrument to the Anishinaabe peoples; in particular, the Ojibwe consider them “the heartbeat of the people.”   

The Family Nights help provide a sense of community and an opportunity for families either to feel affirmed about one of their cultural traditions or to learn more about it. The next Family Night will celebrate the seniors graduating from the program. In addition, they will learn more about Indigenous cooking and prepare an authentic American Indian dish. 

Other program offerings include the following: secondary luncheons, field trips, tutoring, Homework Hangout, and an Eagle View Book Club (upcoming event), among other things.

Approximately every month or two, the secondary students meet for a luncheon where they have the opportunity to develop some close connections with their AIE peers and explore a cultural lesson. This year we have learned more about uses for birch bark, powwows, Ojibwe winter games, and college tuition. 

This is my first year as the AIE Coordinator. Thus far, my favorite part of the program is making connections with students and their families, along with learning more about Native American culture myself. Students shared some of their favorite parts about the program: 

• “The program helps us establish a strong sense of community and love.” 

• “I like all of the different hands-on activities.” 

• “My favorite part was making the drums.”

• “I like just hanging out.”

• “I enjoyed attending the Native American College Fair.”

• “My favorite part was the Snow Snake game.” 

• “I like all of the Family Nights.”

• “My favorite part is learning about different cultural foods.” 

• “AIE helps me learn more about the traditions.” 

One of my goals is to establish annual traditions that students will look fondly back upon.  So far, they are off to a good start.

Photo Courtesy of University of Minnesota 

February 2023

“SNOW Much Learning & Fun!”

Melissa Hesch, Eagle View Elementary Principal

 

There’s “SNOW” much learning and fun going on at Eagle View.  These past few months have been busy with activities and learning.  During the school day, classes have been making the most of the snow with snowshoeing, sledding, curling, and cross-country skiing.  Here are a few other highlights:

Schoolwide Winter BINGO  

On the last day of January, Eagle View students participated in a schoolwide Winter Bingo.  Winter items were called using Google Meet for students to mark on their Bingo cards.  Students ran to the game tables on each floor when they had a bingo.  We are so very thankful to our staff and volunteers for helping us with this activity. Lots of fun was had and many prizes were given out!  

STEM Innovation Award  

Eagle View’s E-STEM program was nominated and chosen to receive the 2023 MESPA STEM Innovation award.  This award was presented to Ms. Hesch and Mrs. Trottier in early February.  The award is given by MESPA and the Science Museum of MN.  Congrats to Mrs. Trottier and Eagle View!

I Love to Read Month!  

Eagle View is reading The World According to Humphrey as a school.  A variety of school staff, community members, and students helped by recording a chapter as part of our I LOVE TO READ celebrations.  Pequot Lakes PTA supported this by purchasing books for each student, items for raffles, and even a huge hamster wheel.  Classrooms are playing a chapter a day spread over three weeks.  Eagle View also had some special readers from the Northern Lakes Hockey team visit on February 10.   Thank you for supporting the love of reading!

EV Title I Student & Family Game Night  

On March 14, we will hold a Title I Student and Family Night. Students will be invited along with their families to a Game Night focused on math skills and fun.  Look for upcoming information to be sent with your child if they have been part of Title I services at Eagle View this year.

Kindergarten Info Night

The incoming class of Patriot Kindergarteners (2022-23) are invited with parents to an information night on March 2.  Students will participate in activities in the classroom and a scavenger hunt around the building.  Parents will have information sessions about traditional Kindergarten programming or Patriot Academy.  If you have an incoming Kindergartener or if you want more information about Kindergarten or Patriot Academy, please contact the EV office at 218-562-6100. 

February 2023

“Donor Opportunity - Weight Room Renovations”

Byron Westrich, Activities Director

 

With student use at an all-time high, Pequot Lakes High School is looking to update its weight room equipment.  In addition to use by physical education classes, the weight room is open for students every morning before school, with typically 10-20 students in attendance.  The weight room is also open after school and, depending on the season, there are between 25-80 students utilizing this space after school.  We have recently started to open up the weight room on Saturday mornings to allow more access for students.  During the summer, the Community Education summer strength training program typically serves over 150 students.

  

The first update to this space would be to rename it from the weight room to the Fitness Center, as it incorporates more than strictly weight lifting.  Not only is the Center used by physical education classes and student-athletes during their seasons, it is also used by students who may not be participating in any specific activity.

 

The second piece to this is selling most of our existing equipment and updating it with equipment from Dynamic Fitness.  The new equipment would give us a state-of-the-art performance and training center to better serve our students.  The updated setup would allow a student to enter one area and complete all of their lifts rather than traveling around the room in order to work on different pieces of equipment.  This will speed up the process for students to get in a great workout, allowing more students to lift at once.  This would also allow for two physical education classes in the space simultaneously, as well as multiple teams lifting after school, and still have room for our regulars who work out each day.

  

Currently, the space has four places to bench, squat, and clean lift.  These are the three most common lifts we ask our students and athletes to perform.  The new equipment will give us 16 stations to perform these lifts.  There is currently one machine to complete a seated row or lat pulldown exercise, while the new equipment will allow 8 places to perform these.  The new setup will include Patriot branding on the floor, weights, and equipment to enhance and create an exciting culture while working out.

The benefits of a fitness center renovation include improved mental health, enhanced training methods for our student-athletes, and promoting wellness for all of our students.   The estimated cost to provide these benefits to our students is $300,000.   In order to accomplish this, the school district is requesting donations to complete this project.   There are various donation levels that businesses and individuals can rally behind, with each including various levels of recognition. 

A brochure detailing the project and the donation levels is available.  For more information, contact Byron Westrich, Activities Director, at bwestrich@isd186.org or 218-568-9213.  Thank you for your support.  Go Patriots!

January 2023

“Have It Your Way”

Aaron Nelson, High School Principal

 

Burger King’s motto “have it your way” began in the 1970s and speaks to the franchise’s goal of tailoring their product to the wishes of their customers.  In the decades since, more and more businesses have reworked their business model to offer a more customer-driven product that allows individual customers to customize their purchases to better fit their needs.  Today the concept of “have it your way” is nothing new and actually an expectation of the customer.  Imagine ordering a coffee at Starbucks and being told “sorry, we only have coffee with a choice of cream and sugar.”  It is hard to imagine that business model will result in many satisfied customers.

 

Education is not exempt from this same trend of a customized experience.  In the past few decades, we have introduced options such as College In the Schools, Post Secondary Enrollment Options, Advance Placement, AA Degrees, online learning, and Internships that give our students a customized experience that allows them to tailor their education to their postsecondary ambitions.  These options and more have enabled students and families to create learning experiences that better prepare them for expected careers or learning styles.

 

Pequot Lakes High School is uniquely positioned to offer many customizable options for students while still offering a small town experience.  We have expanded our elective options, partnered with colleges to offer college credits to our students, partnered with local businesses to offer internships for interested students, expanded our technology to integrate curriculums that represent high growth areas of the economy, and hired high-quality staff to ensure our students are getting the best education possible.

 

There are limitations to customization.  While we work hard to build schedules that benefit students and their ambitions, we are limited by the same realities that students experience at the postsecondary level: class size, teacher availability, teacher certification, and student scheduling.  Our priority is to provide students with a schedule that gives them their courses requested in February the year before.  This means that other factors such as teacher choice, class period, and ensuring their friends are in their classes are not able to be accommodated.  Given our familiarity with individualizing everything else in our lives, it can be challenging to accept a schedule that is not customized to our every desire.  In spite of this reality, PLHS continues to provide our students with the preparation they need to succeed after graduation.

 

At the core of our success are highly qualified teachers and two remarkable counselors who support 620 students.  Our staff continues to learn about trends that impact our students and prepare them for a world that may be very different from the one their parents experienced when they turned 18.  Pequot Lakes High School offers our students options for their education that rival much larger schools while providing a setting where most people know each other on a first-name basis and feel connected to our small Patriot community.  Check out our website to learn more about how our offerings can help you “have it your way.”

January 2023

“Amazing Community Support - Wolf Ridge”

Mike O'Neil, Middle School Principal

PLMS is excited to send the class of 2029 to Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center in Finland MN next week.  This second annual 6th-grade field trip is due in large part to the amazing support present in the ISD 186 community.  

Let’s start with our funding partners.  We are beyond grateful for the overwhelming support demonstrated by these local non-profit organizations: Knights of Columbus, Pelican Lakes Conservation Club, Ideal Community Service Organization, Whitefish Area Property Owners Association, Crow Wing Power, Nisswa Lions, Pequot Lakes Legion, Pequot Lakes PTA, and our very own Patriot Foundation.  Let’s be reminded that many of these organizations are the same groups that are read aloud each month when our School Board reads the long list of donations that have funneled through our district office in support of our schools.  Whether you’re a pull-tab player or a hard-working volunteer at a pancake breakfast, we are so fortunate to have a community that is vested in giving back to our schools.

To our parents and guardians, we know that this trip represents potential “firsts” for your child.  For some, there may be apprehension.  This might be the first time your child has left on an overnight without a parent.  Other adults might be concerned about how their child is going to do without access to Snapchat or TikTok via their phone.  For some families, this trip might bring excitement.  This excursion might represent the first time a child has seen Lake Superior and the 36+ inches of lake effect snow they have at the facility.  How about viewing constellations without light pollution or doing Kitchen Patrol Duty without complaining?  From rock climbing to high ropes courses framed against the backdrop of beautiful Lake Superior, we’re extremely excited to bring these opportunities forward for our 6th-grade students.

Lastly, we’d like to celebrate our staff and the handful of parent chaperones embarking on the trip with us.  Our appreciation surrounding this trip isn’t just about donations of money, it is also about those who are giving of their time and talents on behalf of our 6th graders.  Countless hours and manpower have been put into ensuring this trip goes off without a hitch.  PLMS staff and chaperones, we see your commitment and we thank you for it.

As always, PLMS is feeling truly blessed to be a part of this amazing community.  Thank you to those who have contributed to our trip.  We’ll make sure to share all the amazing stories and images when we get back!