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ALSO INSIDE: SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION • ANNUAL REPORT • OUTDOOR CLASSROOM
School TalkFALL 2015
Why student connectedness is a key to success.
Connected Kids
School Talk is published by Mounds View Public Schools, Independent School District 621. Send correspondence to School Talk editor, 350 Highway 96 West, Shoreview, MN 55126, e-mail [email protected] or call 651-621-6012.
Para asistencia en traducciones ó ayuda como intérprete, por favor comuníquese con Angel Toro al 651-724-2854. Yog xa tau kev pab thiab hais ua lus Hmoob thov hu rau Mee Yang ntawm 651-724-0396. Haddi aad ubaahantahay faahfaahin dheerad ah ama turjumaad, fadlan kala soo xiriir, taleefanka 651-724-7482.
EditorsRachel GutierrezColin Sokolowski
DesignerSusan Abbott
PhotographersRachel GutierrezGreg HelgesonLifetouch Stephen Ward
SuperintendentDan Hoverman
2015 School BoardBob HelgesonAmy JonesGreg MadsenMarre Jo SagerJon TynjalaJonathan WeinhagenSandra Westerman
Watch us:Like us: Visit us: www.moundsviewschools.orgFollow us:
On the cover:
Mounds View seniors Julia Anderson, Michael DeGroot and Jericho Von Brugger enjoy the Homecoming football game.
Photo credit: Stephen Ward, David Bank Studio
Student connectednessThey may not realize it, but what Grant and Etisha are building in those moments after school is just as critical to their development as their classroom experiences. It’s called student connectedness. And studies show it’s an essential component to the overall health and well-being of students.
“ Students who feel connected to school...report high levels of emotional well-being.”
Journal of School Health
“ Students who are connected are less likely to have emotional problems, suffer from eating disorders or experience suicidal thoughts.”
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
“ Increased student connection to school promotes motivation, classroom engagement and improved school attendance.”
Educational Leadership magazine
“There’s been a consistent theme throughout our work, and it’s student connectedness,” says School Board member Greg Madsen. “Connectedness affects the emotional health of students. It promotes academic achievement. It even supports co-curricular success.”
As evidence of its support, the School Board recently committed to an annual $800,000 investment to support high school co-curriculars, paying for transportation, uniforms, officials and some essential equipment.
I t’s 2:05 p.m., and the high school day has just ended. But for many students, the best part of the day is just beginning.
Seniors Grant Delaune and Etisha Punia are racing off to cross country practice at Mounds View High School, but not before a few stops along the way. Grant checks in with his student council advisor for a quick meeting. Etisha chats about the day with her friends near her locker, before meeting with her favorite math teacher for some extra help.
Both consider this time a golden opportunity for connecting.
“That time period between school getting out and activities starting — I really like it,” says Etisha. “We have plenty of time to get things done.”
That’s by design. Both Irondale High School and Mounds View delay the start of activities up to an hour to allow students time to connect with teachers. And once activities begin, student connections soar.
“If I wasn’t as involved after school, I wouldn’t know as many of my teachers or other students as well — especially students from other grade levels,”says Etisha.
Grant agrees.“When I was an underclassman, I
remember feeling super cool whenever a senior would say hi to me in the hall,” he says. “Now that I’m the senior, I always try to do the same to freshmen. It’s cool listening to their music and hearing about their day. Activities are a great way to get to know students you wouldn’t normally know.”
Why after-school time is a key to academic success.
Connected Kids“ If I wasn’t as involved after school, I wouldn’t know as many of my teachers or other students as well.”– Etisha Punia, Mounds View senior
Do students feel connected?Students at Irondale High School and Mounds View High School recently took a student connectedness survey. Results reveal...
Students study in the paddock after school at Mounds View High School. “When school gets out, it’s hardly a ghost town here,” says activities director Bob Madison. “It feels almost as busy as the school day. And that’s just the way we want it.”
Compared to high school students across the state:
“Adults in school care about me.”
75%
“I feel good about myself.”
68%– Minnesota Student Survey,
Minnesota Center for Health Statistics, 2013
“I feel supported
by my teacher.”
90%
“Besides a teacher, at least one other adult in school welcomes
me, cares about me and encourages me to succeed.”
84%
“I am involved in at least one
club, sport, musical group or school-sponsored
activity.”
85%
“I feel respected
by my fellow students.”
85%
“I feel good about who I am
as a person.”
90%
“I care about my school.”
85%
School’s out, but students remain
Strategies for successSo what else has the District done to promote student connectedness? • Every school has a specific priority goal
related to connectedness.• Every school works with every student
to provide meaningful goal setting and mentoring.
• Elementary schools offer a variety of after-school activities and family fun nights.
• Student interests have prompted new after-school activities added to middle schools.
• Middle schools offer an activity bus at 4:15 p.m.
• High schools run after-school buses at 3:30 and again at 5 p.m.
• Sliding-scale fees, needs-based scholarships and family caps encourage participation in co-curriculars at all school levels.
• The first day of school for sixth- and ninth-graders offers them the entire school building focused on them.
• The ninth-grade respect retreat has become a popular tradition.
• High schools have launched campaigns promoting the responsible use of social media.
Strategies to improve student connectedness may look somewhat different in every school, but staff throughout the District share the same goal: Making frequent, personal and positive contacts with every student.
“We know that kids who feel more connected do better in school and in life beyond our walls,” says Superintendent Dan Hoverman. “If our students feel connected, we’re confident their experience here will be positive and successful.”
FALL 2015 School Talk 3
MAKING THE GRADE
Top in the nation for ACTYear after year, Mounds View Public Schools students exceed both the national and the state average on ACT exams. For the ninth consecutive year, Mounds View Public Schools students earned an average ACT score (23.5) that surpasses both the Minnesota average (22.7) and the national average (21.0). Thanks to a grant from the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation, Mounds View Public Schools was the first school district in the state to give every high school junior the opportunity to take the ACT on site for free during the school day beginning in 2011. In 2015, 98 percent of the junior class participated in the free on-site administration of the test.
Graduating Class of 2015 ACT scores
Mounds View Public Schools 23.5
Minnesota average 22.7
National average 21.0
*The District’s composite score also includes students from other District schools such as the Area Learning Center and REACH Academy.
Mounds View uses a number of assessments to measure student performance and progress. Whether the results come from state-mandated testing, District measurement systems, or national rankings, Mounds View Public Schools continues to hold a place among the highest-performing districts in the state and in the nation.
Emily Ruan, Hassan Lubega, Persis Ke, Brandon Duffy and Alex Jiang (in the front row). William Newhouse, Sam Rush and Daniel Min (with Mounds View Principal Jeff Ridlehoover).
Top 10 School Districts in Minnesota
Wayzata 26
Edina 19
Eden Prairie 15
Eagan-Rosemount- Apple Valley 15
South Washington County 12
Mounds View 10
Minneapolis 10
Rochester 8
Minnetonka 8
St. Paul 7
Top 10 school districtMounds View Public Schools ranked among the top 10 districts in the state for the most 2016 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. In total, eight Mounds View High School students and two Irondale High School students were named semifinalists.
Steven Truong and Angela Vu (pictured with Irondale Principal Eric Nelson).
National Merit Scholarship programDistrict seniors are among about 16,000 semifinalists named as part of the annual academic competition. The students, who were selected based on scores on a PSAT qualifying test, will compete for more than 7,000 scholarships worth more than $32 million, to be awarded this spring. The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state.
Mounds View High School seniors Brandon Duffy, William Newhouse, Emily Ruan and Persis Ke achieved a score of 36 on the ACT test, the highest score that can be achieved. Only 58 students in Minnesota’s class of 2015 earned a score of 36.
4 School Talk FALL 2015
5 GOALS OF FOCUSMounds View Public Schools is committed to high student achievement through a comprehensive approach that integrates the key components of learning. The Legislature passed the World’s Best Workforce Bill in 2013 requiring all Minnesota schools to develop a plan for increasing student performance that includes five goals of focus. Mounds View’s World’s Best Workforce strategic plan for 2015-2016 will continue to focus on meeting the five key components described in the 2014-2015 plan. The District’s Equity Promise provides the framework to make great strides in all these components.
Mounds View Public Schools Educational Equity Promise
• Programs and services will be in place at all schools to ensure that race, class and disability will not predict students’ success in Mounds View Public Schools.
• Student academic performance will not fall into patterns identifiable by factors such as race, ethnicity, English language proficiency, socio-economic status and disability.
• The school that a student attends will not be the predictor of his/her school success.
District students perform above the state and the nation District students on average perform one to three grade levels above national norms in reading and math as measured by the NWEA Measure of Academic Progress (MAP). MAP tests are aligned with Minnesota state standards and serve as early indicators of how students will perform on MCA tests (used to meet federal requirements of No Child Left Behind). The District also uses MAP tests to measure student academic growth and develop plans for continued improvement. Results from Minnesota’s Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) tests also show that District students out-perform their peers in the state when it comes to the percent of students proficient in reading, math and science. In 2015, the percent of students proficient on the MCA math and MCA reading exams increased.
1 All students meet school readiness goals.
Participation in high-quality early learning programs will provide children from all backgrounds with a strong start and a foundation for school success. Early learning programs help prevent achievement gaps before they start, and invests from an early age in children as our most critical resource. An ongoing focus on early childhood programs will include a closer look at expansion opportunities for ages four to kindergarten.
The District is in its second year of providing a comprehensive all-day kindergarten literacy and numeracy program. Students’ Primary Measures of Academic Progress median performance increased for both math (+3 points) and reading (+4 points) in 2014-2015, revealing the impact of all-day kindergarten instruction.
More informationFor more information, visit the “Curriculum” web page at www.moundsviewschools.org.
QuestionsQuestions about testing and assessment? Contact Mary Roden, assistant director of assessment and evaluation, at 651-621-6042 or [email protected].
2 Every student is able to read at or above grade level by the end of third grade.
Scientifically-based literacy instruction, assessment and professional development is provided across the District to ensure that all students have a solid foundation of literacy skills in third grade. Students’ performance on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment for Reading provides an annual check of third-grade literacy progress. Students who are proficient (meet or exceed the standards) on this exam are indicative of students who are on track with their development of literacy skills.
At all sites, support for the implementation of literacy standards and high quality instruction are provided through the use of a Literacy Coaches and Instructional Strategies Facilitators. Alignment of standards, prioritizing of benchmarks and regular assessments for instructional planning is ongoing. Support for all students, including appropriate intervention services, are provided as needed to ensure all students read fluently on grade level by the end of third grade.
Percent of third-grade students proficient on the MCA Reading assessment
Mounds View State of MN
Spring 2015 65.8 58.7
Spring 2014 69.3 58.2
Spring 2013 63.2 57.4
FALL 2015 School Talk 5
MAKING THE GRADE
3 Close achievement gaps for all students.Mounds View Public Schools measures students’ progress and analyzes the results — looking closely at the percentage of students exceeding proficiency, meeting proficiency or meeting partial proficiency on standards measured by the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments. These results are analyzed to identify any achievement gaps and ensure that schools are upholding the District’s Equity Promise.
In alignment with the Achievement and Integration plan to address achievement gaps, schools are first addressing the gaps that exist in the aspirations student have for their future, the opportunities available to them and the expectations every school has for its students. The District and its schools are
working toward a goal of reducing the achievement gap to half of what it is now by spring 2017. To do this, schools are focused on:
• Increasing student engagement through culturally and linguistically responsive classrooms and through work with equity coordinators.
• Increasing opportunities for rigorous course work for the academic middle with support for students to succeed.
• Professional Learning Communities focused on the strategies that impact achievement for all students.
4 All students graduate from high school.
Mounds View Public Schools measures the percent of students who graduate in exactly four years plus the percent of students who continue according to their Personalized Plan, as an indicator of progress for on-time graduation.
District strategies for increasing graduation rates to 100 percent:
• Personalized Post-Secondary plans for all sixth-12th-grade students.
• Well-defined activities that support students’ transitions between sites.
• Equity Coordinator, equity staff and school deans monitor at-risk students to provide academic interventions as needed.
• Provide multiple and focused ways to support students with credit recovery.
District Achievement Gap Trend for Math and Reading
2013 MATH
2014 MATH
2015 MATH
2013 RDG
2014 RDG
2015 RDG
Difference in achievement of students of color compared to white students.
12.7 10.3 10.2 13.3 13.8 13.0
Difference in achievement of students receiving free/reduced lunch prices compared to those not receiving free/reduced lunch.
18.8 18.3 18.1 23.2 23.6 23.7
Difference in achievement of students receiving English Learner Services compared to those not receiving English Learner Services.
32.5 27.3 29.1 44.5 49.5 50.3
Difference of achievement of students receiving Special Education Services compared to those not receiving Special Education Services.
24.8 29.7 36.1 25.3 28.8 38.2
* It is important to note that in 2015 for many of these comparison subgroups, the number of students proficient increased for both groups. This resulted in the gap remaining much the same, even though there was an increase in the number of students reaching proficient levels.
Class of 2012
Class of 2013
Class of 2014
ALL 96.1 96.4 96.9
White Students 96.8 97.2 98.3
Students of Color 93.9 90.4 97.2
Students receiving free or reduced-price lunch
93.0 92.2 93.9
Students receivingEnglish Language Services
97.4 96.4 96.3
Students receiving Special Education Services
90.7 93.8 93.5
6 School Talk FALL 2015
MAKING THE GRADE
5 All students attain college and career readiness.As part of the Equity Promise, schools work to ensure that programs and services are in place to provide all students with supports and opportunities that will prepare them for post-secondary success. Predictors of success are used to guide personal learning plans and focus on individual goals for student achievement.
Administration of the Explore, PLAN and ACT tests helps guide four-year goal-setting plans and aids in the development of post-secondary plans for students in grades six to 12. Foundational course offerings in grades seven to 10 and an ongoing focus on developing the Habits of Mind help ensure students are college and career ready.
The ACT helps to assess college and career readiness. All Mounds View Public Schools juniors are offered the ACT at no charge during the school day.
In addition to the ACT, the District measures the participation and success of students in rigorous course offering including: concurrent enrollment at Anoka Ramsey Community College (ARCC) Advanced Placement (AP) and College in the Schools (CIS) courses.
Students enrolled in college-level courses 2014-2015
• 56% of students at Irondale High School
• 66% of students at Mounds View High School
• 61% of students in grades 9*-12
• 79% of the students enrolled in these courses earned the college credit.
* Note that ninth-grade students have fewer options to participate, as most courses begin at grade 10.
Graduating Class ACT Results
Class of 2011
Class of 2012
Class of 2013
Class of 2014
Class of 2015
Number of students taking exam
612 861 792 819 824
% of class 69% 97% 97% 97% 98%
Average District Score 25.3 23.4 23.5 23.5 23.5
Average State Score 22.9 22.3 23.0 22.9 22.7
Average Nation Score 21.1 21.1 20.9 21.1 21.0
A Closer Look: Number of students with ACT Composite Score:
25-36 348 315 308 386 366
21-24 178 220 207 186 203
17-20 68 146 164 139 138
lower than 17 18 180 112 108 117
The Class of 2012 was the first class to participate in the free ACT Junior Administration.
2014-15 Student Concurrent Enrollment in College Courses
The enrollment number represents duplicated counts of students,as students may enroll in multiple ARCC, AP and CIS courses.
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
1600
Mounds View High School
ARCC AP CIS
Enrollments 813 1503 101
Students 669 772 73
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
1400
Irondale High School
ARCC AP CIS
Enrollments 987 1280 59
Students 622 759 42
FALL 2015 School Talk 7
SCHOOL BOARD
2015 School Board
Front row: Amy Jones, Jon Tynjala, Marre Jo Sager. Back row: Jonathan Weinhagen, Greg Madsen, Sandra Westerman, Bob Helgeson.
Student instructionand support: 76¢
Sites and buildings: 7¢
Transportation: 7¢
District & school administration: 4¢
District support services: 3¢
Fixed costs: 3¢
Enrollment continues to riseAs of early September, 10,894 students have enrolled in Mounds View Public Schools. This year’s enrollment is an increase of 383 students from last October 1 reporting. Despite the increase, buildings are operating with efficiency near capacity levels, and average class sizes remain the same as the last several years thanks to voter-approved levy funding. All core class sizes meet School Board approved ranges. Depending on the grade level, students receive small group instruction every day in math and reading with groups sizes of five to 15 students.
Proposed property taxesRamsey County will mail 2016 proposed property tax statements in mid-November. Mounds View Public Schools will discuss the budget and final property tax levy for 2016 at a focused forum scheduled before its regularly scheduled 7 p.m. Board meeting on December 8, 2015, at Snail Lake Education Center, 350 Highway 96 W, Shoreview, when it will certify final property taxes. For more information, please visit the Budgets and Finance page at www.moundsviewschools.org. The proposed taxes for 2016 total $44,125,435, which is an increase of $939,563 or 2% more than final taxes payable 2015. The main area of increase is referendum funding which is directly influenced by increased student enrollment.
Investing in studentsMore dollars go to classroom instruction and support than to any other area. This year, the District is investing 76 cents of every general fund dollar in classroom instruction and support.
Source: General Fund, Mounds View Public Schools, 2015-2016
Moody’s upgrades bond ratingMoody’s Investors Service has upgraded Mounds View School District’s bond rating to Aa2 from Aa3. The Aa2 rating reflects the District’s large tax base, a recent trend of growing enrollment, healthy financial position and modest debt burdens.
8 School Talk FALL 2015
EDUCATION FOUNDATION
The Mounds View Schools Education Foundation (MVSEF) works in partnership with Mounds View Public Schools leadership to identify programs that require funding to advance District priorities and innovations that can reach students throughout the entire District. Dave and Marsha Stimpson have helped to make many Foundation initiatives a reality.
Spotlight on the StimpsonsAsk Dave or Marsha Stimpson about their family’s history with Mounds View Public Schools and they will tell you that it started with the experiences Dave had as a student. Dave is part of the 1966 Mounds View High School graduating class. The Stimpsons are also proud parents of two Mounds View alumni — their son Jeremy (1996) and daughter Kaitlin (2002).
Marsha, although not an alumna, has her own unique connection to Mounds View Public Schools. She began working in the District as a paraprofessional in 1990 and concluded her career as a health specialist at Sunnyside Elementary School this past February. Marsha takes great pride in her work within the schools and also values the education their children received from the Mounds View school system.
In 1989, Dave was appointed to the Board of the 621 Foundation, now known as the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation. He quickly took on a leadership role and championed what affectionately became known as the 621 Family Fun Run. This event, one of the first fun runs in the Mounds View Public Schools community, was an annual event that ran for a decade and raised thousands of dollars for the District.
Dave’s service was not just limited to the Foundation. He served on the School Board from 1999 to 2004 during a difficult economic climate. When asked to reflect on
his experience with the District, Dave said, “I realized how difficult it was to keep the budget cuts out of the classroom. I felt our District’s primary goal was to make sure that our students received the best classroom education possible and that every educational touch point — be it the arts, languages, sciences or math — mattered. To this day, I believe that is what makes the Mounds View School District a great district.”
The Foundation appreciates Dave and Marsha’s past service as well as their on-going financial investment as supporters of the Foundation’s annual giving program and as attendees of MVSEF’s fundraising events. Their commitment can serve as an example to other alumni, parents and community members who value the importance of giving back and supporting the exceptional educational experience offered by Mounds View Public Schools.
Dave Stimpson presenting a scholarship to Brooke Olson at the Local Awards Ceremony at Mounds View High School.
Visit www.moundsviewschoolsef.org for more information and to consider making an investment in classroom enhancements for Mounds View Public Schools students through the Annual Giving Campaign.
FALL 2015 School Talk 9
BACK TO SCHOOL
New facesIn September, 800 kindergarten students began their first year as part of the Mounds View Public Schools team. Assistant Superintendent Chris Lennox also joined the District.
Ryan Lang (pictured below) cured students of the first-day jitters at the kindergarten centers at Pike Lake by sharing with them that it was also his first day. Lang, who has been a teacher with Mounds View Public Schools since 2012, joined Pike Lake in July as the kindergarten center program administrator. Valentine Hills Elementary School welcomed Lindsey Boumgarden as principal in September while Nathan Flansburg joined Sunnyside Elementary as principal. Rob Reetz became principal at Chippewa Middle School.
Mounds View Mentors helped lead a Respect Retreat that challenged students to respect themselves and others, and to contribute to the school’s positive learning environment.
At Irondale, Allison Willner and Catherine Niedermann were among the 140 juniors and seniors who serve as Peer Mentors. They helped ninth-graders navigate the school during the first week and helped to make the transition to high school a positive experience.
Get to know new principals by watching introduction videos at www.moundsviewschools.org.
Chris Lennox was busy getting to know students, staff and schools in September. Maddie Zukowski’s kindergarten class got a surprise visit when he joined their class for story time.
District high schools welcomed 931 freshmen this fall. Student mentors at both schools helped ninth-graders make a smooth transition to high school with a freshmen-only day filled with various orientation activities including team-building activities and school tours.
10 School Talk FALL 2015
Updates on the go with the new District appStaying in touch with the District and its schools has never been easier. Download and customize the free mobile app to add specific calendar events to your device, follow high school sports, subscribe to notifications, check lunch menus, contact schools and more.
School and District contacts
Attendance lines
Calendars
Lunch menus
Teacher websites
SchoolView
Tip text
Coming soon! Transportation
tracker
tips
Stay connected in 2015-2016Video message to familiesIn September, students and their families were welcomed to the 2015-2016 school year with a one-minute video message from Superintendent Dan Hoverman. For some insights into the school year, watch the video at www.moundsviewschools.org.
Website improvementsDistrict and school websites will soon be mobile responsive and easier to navigate. Look for continued improvements to the District and school websites in 2015-2016.
Social mediaYou can also follow the District and its schools on
, and .
All schools throughout the District have a playlist on the District’s YouTube Channel. Links are available in the footer at www.moundsviewschools.org. Find school-specific social media links and feeds by visiting school websites.
FALL 2015 School Talk 11
AROUND THE DISTRICT
being called Rice Creek Commons, began last school year when teachers shared ideas about how the open space could serve as the backdrop for learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM).
This summer, volunteers from Cummins and the Education Foundation joined Mounds View Public Schools teachers, deans and principals to prepare the property for learning. McGough Construction donated a trailer to be used as
an on-site learning lab, and Cummins stocked the trailer with tools and equipment to inspire hands-on lessons in environmental conservation, math, science and more.
According to Shane Wood (pictured above), science coach for the District, access to Rice Creek Commons offers teachers an opportunity to incorporate real-world field work into their curriculum. “Students will have an opportunity to get outside the classroom for relevant real-world experiences with connections to STEAM. Because of the obvious ties to math and science, the outdoor classroom will first be used to reinforce learning in those areas. As we expand the program, other curricular areas may include marketing, social studies, government and more.”
Translation assistanceTo learn more about District programs and events featured in this issue of School Talk in Spanish, Hmong or Somali, please call Angel Toro (Spanish) at 651-724-0396, Mee Yang (Hmong) at 651-724-0396 or Ali Ali (Somali) at 651-724-7482.
Yog xa paub ntau tshaj nov txog peb lub District cov program thiab kev sib sau ua ke ntawm peb cov tsev kawm ntawv thiab niam txiv nrog rau me nyuam kawm ntawv uas muaj nyob rau hauv tsab ntawv School Talk no, thov hu rau Mee Yang ntawm 651-724-0396.
Para aprender mas sobre los programas del Distrito Escolar y de los eventos en esta edicion de School Talk, llame a Angel Toro al 651-724-0396.
Haddii aad dooneysid faahfaahin dheeraad ah oo ku saabsan barnaamijyada lugu soo qoro School Talk, ee ka baxa Iskuulada Moundsview, fadlan la soo xiriis Ali Ali: 651-724-7482.
Outdoor classroomIn partnership with Ramsey County, the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation, Cummins Foundation and McGough Construction, Mounds View Public Schools is helping to develop an outdoor classroom on land that was once occupied by the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP). Development of the project, on the property now
Irondale and Mounds View High School students used the learning lab and outdoor classroom this fall to measure various atmospheric conditions like temperature and humidity.
Orchestra students perform at Target FieldFifth- and sixth-graders who participated in the summer orchestra program joined Irondale and Mounds View High School orchestra students for a Twins game performance in September. Baseball fans who attended the September 15 game were greeted at the plaza at Target Field with a live performance.
Irondale students Rana Lamprecht and Emily Davis were among the student performers.
12 School Talk FALL 2015
If you have recently moved into the District and have preschool students who may one day enroll in Mounds View Public Schools, it’s important that you contact the Early Childhood staff to have your family information entered into the District’s data system. Please contact [email protected].
Early Childhood ScreeningEarly Childhood Screening is required for entrance into kindergarten and is offered throughout the year at no charge. It is best to have your child screened between ages 3.5 and 4. Screening identifies possible learning or health concerns so that your child can get the needed help before starting school. Call 651-621-7420 to make your child’s early childhood screening appointment today.
School Board electionOn November 3, voters will elect four residents to serve four-year terms on the School Board. The following residents have filed affidavits of candidacy.
John Hakes, Shoreview
Bob Helgeson, North Oaks
Amy Jones, Shoreview
Jonathan Weinhagen, Shoreview
Sandra Westerman, Shoreview
The School Board is made up of seven citizens elected at large by voters in the District every two years to serve four-year overlapping terms. At the end of a four-year term, members may run for reelection to successive terms.
For more information on polling locations, absentee ballot applications and more, visit www.moundsviewschools.org.
Pinewood students motivated by PAWSSAs an extension of the PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) program at Pinewood Elementary School, a new program was launched this year known as PAWSS (Positive Attitude with Students and Staff ). Focused on community-building, relationship-building and motivating students to find their passions and skills, the program encourages students to serve as an example of success and to motivate others to do the same. Activities planned for the school year include a focus on staying “above the line” of expectations, using fix-it plans for reconciliation and participation in a PAWSS Camp of school-wide expectations.
Courtney Brocker’s class participated in the first PAWSS rally of the year this fall. Students pictured are Logan Dahm, Alexis Pfuhl, Kaley Walker, Ava Reiter, Sarahi Gonzalez Alvarez, Jory Khan, Daven Taylor, Aaron Saralampi, Owen Van Ert, Genet Backman, Bayah Dube, Fisher Killins, Albert Records, Eliza Frey, Madeline Madetzke and Madeline Lozowy.
Community gardenPinewood students, parents, neighbors, volunteers and faith groups worked together throughout the spring, summer and early fall to create and care for the Pinewood Community Garden. Produce from the garden goes to community members in need via the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf. District elementary and middle schools welcomed the outdoor addition of organic garden beds last school year thanks to a State Health Incentives Program grant. The District-wide organic garden project aims to provide an outdoor forum for curricular connections and community building. All produce from the gardens will support the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf which serves the Mounds View Public Schools community.
Edgewood sixth-grader Marian Davies, Pinewood second-graders Sarena Vang and Maria Morikawa, and Huchie Vang helped tend to the garden at a recent Family Library Night at Pinewood.
FALL 2015 School Talk 13
AROUND THE DISTRICT
District-wide annual asbestos notificationMounds View Public Schools has continued to respond to asbestos in buildings in a cautious and proactive manner. Building administration will continue with its ongoing asbestos operations and maintenance program, including periodic surveillance inspections, which are conducted on a semi-annual basis. Also required as part of AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act-EPA) are re-inspections, which are conducted by accredited inspectors every three years since the implementation of the District’s Management Plan. The building administration’s ongoing efforts related to the management and control of asbestos containing materials are focused on providing a safe environment for our building occupants and employees. If you have any questions, would like to review the management plan, or are interested in recent response actions completed at the buildings, please contact Chris Paquette at 651-621-6090.
Having trouble making ends meet?The Ralph Reeder Food Shelf is a Community Education Program of Mounds View Public Schools and is available to any low-income individual or family living within the school district. Monthly food assistance includes a minimum of 25 pounds of food per family member including non-perishable foods, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, frozen meats, fresh milk and produce. Food assistance and other services including county application help and referrals to other resources and services are available at the Pike Lake Education Center in New Brighton, Monday through Friday by appointment. Call 651-621-7451 to make an appointment.
Need help with holiday toys and gifts for your children?Operation Joy registration is open during daytime food shelf appointments between November 2 and December 10 by calling 651-621-7451. Walk-in toy shop registration for children is also available on November 25, December 2 and December 9 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf at Pike Lake Education Center (2101 14th St NW, New Brighton). Residents must bring identification for parent and child along with proof of residence in the form of a current piece of mail.
Looking for ways to help?Donations of new unwrapped gifts or toys, gift cards or monetary donations are needed now through December 21. Donations can be dropped off at the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf at Pike Lake Education Center. Online donations can be made by visiting www.ralphreederfoodshelf.org.
To learn about volunteer opportunities, contact Sue Peake at [email protected] or call 651-621-7447.
Pesticides and Herbicides: Parents’ right to knowA Minnesota state law went into effect in the year 2000 that requires schools to inform parents and guardians if they apply certain pesticides on the school property. Specifically, this law requires schools that apply these pesticides to maintain an estimated schedule of pesticide applications and to make the schedule available to parents and guardians for review or copying at each school office. The long-term effects on children from application of such pesticides, or the class of chemicals to which they belong, may not be fully understood. If you would like to be notified prior to pesticide applications made on days other than those specified in the estimated schedule (excluding emergency applications), please contact Chris Paquette at 651-621-6090.
Good Neighbor ProjectThanks to donations from District families and staff, area business and faith partners, community members and volunteers, the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf distributed school supplies to a record number of students serving 925 children in grades K-12 during its annual Good Neighbor Back to School Project. Students received everything from pencils to backpacks.
Luyen Nguyen, an Irondale graduate who is currently completing her doctorate in biochemistry at Purdue University, delivered school supplies to Bel Air Elementary School. She started school at Bel Air in fifth-grade when she moved to New Brighton from Vietnam. She returned to Bel Air this fall to thank District staff for the support she received during her years at Bel Air, Highview and Irondale. Her generous donations will be appreciated by Bel Air students in need throughout the school year.
14 School Talk FALL 2015
AROUND THE DISTRICT
Chalkboard CapersChalkboard Capers is a variety show presented annually by the teachers of the Mounds View Education Association. The goal is to raise money for student scholarships given to graduating seniors from Irondale High School, Mounds View High School, REACH Academy, Area Learning Center and Adult Basic Education. Each scholarship is for $621. The number of scholarships awarded depends on the financial success of the show. Learn more about the history here. The 2016 show is slated for April 6-9.
DonationsYour donations makes our show a success. If you wish to make a financial contribution or children’s prize donation to Chalkboard Capers, please send your check to or drop your donation off at:
Mounds View Education AssociationAttn: Chalkboard Capers900 Long Lake Road, Suite 110New Brighton, MN 55112
Receipt of donation can be obtained at the Mounds View Education Association office. If you would like to arrange for someone to pick up your prize or donation, please email [email protected].
It’s personal Every secondary student has a personal learning plan developed by staff who know their students personally.
It’s challenging The top three reasons why families choose Mounds View Public Schools are “Quality Teachers,” “Academic Excellence” and “Academic Opportunities” that can’t be found elsewhere.
It’s safe 94 percent of families say schools are safe and respectful.
It’s popular Year after year, 80 percent of resident students choose to attend Mounds View Public Schools.
FOCUS Mounds View Public Schools
on your future
Kindergarten Round-Up:
Island Lake at Snail Lake February 11 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Turtle Lake at Snail Lake February 4 5:30 – 7 p.m.
Sunnyside at Pike Lake February 9 4:30 – 5:15 p.m.
Valentine Hills at Pike Lake February 10 5:30 – 6:15 p.m.
Bel Air at Pike Lake February 10 4:30 – 5:15 p.m.
Pinewood at Pike Lake February 9 5:30 – 6:15 p.m.
2016 Enrollment Information Nights:
Chippewa Middle School January 12 6 – 8 p.m.
Edgewood Middle School January 14 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Highview Middle School January 14 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Irondale High School January 7 5 – 6:30 p.m. or 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Mounds View High School January 7 A – L between 5:30 and 7 p.m. M – Z between 7 and 8:30 p.m.
2015 performers included kindergarten center staff from Snail Lake Education Center (front floor:) Lisa Murray, Shari Friesen, Adria Crego; (standing:) Kara Cassidy, Penny Nelson and Jenny Heyer.
FALL 2015 School Talk 15
AROUND THE DISTRICT
What to expect if winter weather calls for school closingsCancelling school is a tremendously difficult and complicated decision for any school district to make, and it’s a decision that impacts thousands of families in very different ways. Be assured that these decisions are always made with the safety of students in mind.
One-source forecastingMounds View has joined a group of neighboring school districts in deciding it will rely solely on forecasts provided by the National Weather Service – Twin Cities, which is the official government authority on weather forecasting and weather warnings for the state of Minnesota.
Threshold for closingsSchools could be cancelled if...
• Our neighborhoods experience sustained wind chills of 40 to 45 degrees below zero during the hours between morning bus pick ups and afternoon bus drop offs.
• Buses won’t start or run dependably.
• Local road conditions in our neighborhoods are dangerous or impassable.
Because metro districts (even neighboring districts) can experience differing weather and road conditions, do not be surprised if there is inconsistency among school district closures throughout the metro this year.
2-hour late startsAlthough 2-hour late starts aren’t convenient for families, this option could be used to avoid school cancellations which could ultimately allow the District to avoid a greater inconvenience of make-up days added back to the calendar.
If the District calls a 2-hour late start, here’s how it will work:
• Buses will pick up students 2 hours later than their typical bus stop schedule.
• Schools will start 2 hours later than their typical schedule.
• Class periods will be shortened throughout the day.
• Schools will dismiss at their regular dismissal times.
• Buses will drop off students at their regular drop-off times.
NotificationsFamilies should always assume schools are open and in session, unless they hear or see differently. Websites will only indicate when schools are closed — not when they remain open. If schools will be using a 2-hour late start or cancelling altogether, the District will notify parents no later than approximately 5:30 a.m. on the day of the late start or cancellation, using the following tools:
• Text messages• Voicemail messages• E-mail messages
• Facebook and Twitter• 651-621-SNOW hotline
recordings• District and school website
postings
The District will also notify local media outlets, but cannot guarantee if or how the media will report the information we provide them.
Make-up days?This year’s school calendar allows for two cancellation days without make-up days required. However, now that Mounds View has the ability to use 2-hour late starts, it’s not as likely that calendar adjustments will be necessary.
16 School Talk FALL 2015
WITH HONORS
Excellence in behavioral prevention effortFour District elementary schools are among 36 Minnesota schools identified as state-wide leaders for creating positive learning environments for students. This summer, the
Minnesota Department of Education recognized Bel Air Elementary School, Sunnyside Elementary School, Turtle Lake Elementary School and Valentine Hills Elementary School as Sustaining Exemplar Schools. Using a program called Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS), the four schools were identified as leaders in establishing a comprehensive set of practices to support positive behavior, improve school climate and increase student achievement.
District schools among best for Title IValentine Hills Elementary School has been named among the top 15 percent of all Title I schools in the state, earning the Minnesota Department of Education’s (MDE) designation of “Reward” school for the second consecutive year.
“Reward” status is part of the state’s new accountability system that uses a Multiple Measurements Rating (MMR) to evaluate schools’ performance in proficiency, academic growth, achievement gap reduction and meeting targets for graduation rate projections. “Reward” schools represent the highest-performing Title I schools on the four domains in the MMR. MDE plans to share practices from these schools with other schools in an effort to replicate best practices across the state.
In addition, the MDE also named Bel Air Elementary School and Sunnyside Elementary School as “Celebration Eligible.” This means that student performance on MMR measures placed these schools in the 60th to 85th percentile of top performing schools. MDE selects approximately 10 percent of Title I schools to receive the Celebration school recognition annually.
A Title I school is a school that receives supplemental Federal funding based on the percentage of students qualifying for the free or reduced price lunch program. Funding is used to assist in meeting students’ educational goals.
Planning a family reunion or group event? Consider Laurentian Environmental Center (LEC) in Britt, Minn. The Center can accommodate small and large groups year-round with 160 beds, five large classroom buildings, a lodge and a dining facility that seats 175. LEC offers access to hundreds of acres of wilderness with trout streams and diverse wildlife habitat. The environmental center’s property includes access to a 100-acre pristine
lake and hiking/ski trails that connect with the Big Aspen hiking and ski trails. LEC maintains a 12-station Challenge Course, a 32-foot outdoor climbing wall, a dogsled yard and trails, an archery range, canoes and rowboats, a sauna, an outdoor campfire theater and a large playing field. The on-site dining facility serves healthy, home-cooked meals from menus developed by a dietician. Call 1-888-749-1288 or visit www.laurentiancenter.org for more information.
Plan your stay at Laurentian Environmental Center
Master TeacherTurtle Lake Elementary School orchestra teacher, Sandy Collins, was awarded the Minnesota chapter of the American String Teachers Association (MNSOTA) Master Teacher School Orchestra Award in October. She was honored for making a significant contribution to string music in the state of Minnesota. MNSOTA chooses one teacher annually to represent the state as a Master Teacher.
National Scholastic Press award finalistMounds View High School’s student newspaper, The Viewer, was named a finalist for the National Scholastic Press Association’s Pacemaker Award. Finalists were chosen based on coverage and content, quality of writing and reporting, leadership, design, photography and graphics.
Teacher of ExcellenceBestPrep honored Irondale High School Teacher Angie Zappa with a Teacher of Excellence Award in May. The award honored Zappa for her dedication to educating students about business, career and financial literacy, and for providing students with experiential education opportunities.
FALL 2015 School Talk 17
HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS UPDATE
IRONDALE
Homecoming connections reach all agesFor Irondale and Mounds View, homecoming is about more than keeping alumni connected to their alma mater. It is an opportunity to connect with future Knights and Mustangs.During homecoming week, high school athletes embrace the opportunity to share their school pride with elementary school students.
High school students visited Sunnyside Elementary School for a homecoming celebration. The marching band, dance line and football team got students excited about being part of the Irondale Knight family.
Irondale High School inducted the following alumni into the school’s Hall of Fame during a Homecoming Hall of Fame ceremony in September: Chioma Omeoga (class of 2005) track and field; Nicholas Colwell (class of 2008) football, basketball and baseball; Elijah Ojika (class of 2009) football and track and field; and (not pictured) Johanna Spring (class of 2007) diving, gymnastics and track and field.
Music of the KnightThe 24th Annual Fall Music of the Knight Marching Band competition was held at Irondale High School on September 26. The competition included 14 competing bands with Irondale performing in exhibition. The event hosted more than 5,000 spectators and participants.
The Irondale tennis team celebrated its first-round playoff victory against Totino Grace with principal Eric Nelson, activities director Ron Broberg and head coach Mike Walseth.
Irondale High school athletes returned to their alma mater this summer to share their thoughts on “what makes Irondale exceptional?” To hear from Irondale graduates who are now at Minnesota colleges and universities across the country, watch the alumni video at www.moundsviewschools.org/irondale.
18 School Talk FALL 2015
MOUNDS VIEW
The volleyball team sponsored a “Dig Pink” fundraiser during the October 6 game. Action items and t-shirt sales raised money to support the fight against breast cancer.
Homecoming connections reach all agesFor Irondale and Mounds View, homecoming is about more than keeping alumni connected to their alma mater. It is an opportunity to connect with future Knights and Mustangs. During homecoming week, high school athletes embrace the opportunity to share their school pride with elementary school students.
Football captains Jeff Lemay and Carter Rholl (pictured, right) visited with Turtle Lake Elementary School students during lunch on homecoming day. Analee Blake, senior stable squad and track captain, and the Mustang mascot, Melvin, and were also at the elementary school to invite students and their families to the homecoming football game. Island Lake students enjoyed a game-day pep fest which included music, a visit from team captains and a dance team performance.
Who’s been ranked in the Top 10 in the state this year?
• Football
• Boys’ soccer
• Girls’ soccer
• Girls’ swimming
• Boys’ cross country
• Girls’ tennis
At press time...The girls’ swimming and diving team qualified for the State True Team championship, and girls’ soccer won the conference championship and finished the regular season undefeated.
TOP
10
Island Lake students Henry Braun, Vivi Stasny, Ayana D'Souza and Hailey Smyth greet Melvin, the Mustang mascot.
FALL 2015 School Talk 19
NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE
PAIDTWIN CITIES MNPERMIT NO 4112
Mounds ViewP U B L I C S C H O O L S
Independent School District 621350 Highway 96 WestShoreview, MN 55126-1951
MusicMounds
at
View
Sunday, January 17, 2016 2 p.m.
OKEE DOKEE BROTHERSGrammy Award and three time Parent’s Choice Award winners, the Okee Dokee Brothers record and perform family music with a goal to inspire children and their parents to get outside and get creative.
Join us for our exciting second season!
Sunday, April 17, 2016 2 p.m.
LORING STRING QUARTETWith players from the US and Ireland, the Loring String Quartet is an international ensemble of the highest quality, serving the musical needs of the greater Twin Cities area.
Saturday, February 20, 2016 7 p.m.
THE SINGERSThe Singers, a professional choir of 40 members, exists to serve as artists, educators, and ambassadors of the choral art. Recognized nationally for their innovative programming, commitment to new music, and peerless artistic quality, The Singers made their debut at the renowned Ravinia Festival in June 2013.
Season pass and single event tickets are available at the door or online at www.moundsviewschools.org/musicatmoundsview. All performances are held at Mounds View High School, 1900 Lake Valentine Road, Arden Hills.
Music at Mounds View is a professional concert series that brings high-caliber, nationally recognized artists into our community for public performances at Mounds View High School.
