U.S. Postage PAID Esko’s CornerDane Hoffman Benjamin Holt Grace Hrabik Jacob Iallonardo Sophia Iallonardo Ava Ion Erik Johnson Jack Johnson Kyra Johnson Meghan Johnson Sophia Johnson

Community News .................................... 2Honor Roll ............................................... 3Merit Roll ................................................. 4Esko’s Corner Survey Results ................ 5

INSIDECommunity Education ........................6-10Winterquist Elementary News ............... 11From the School Board ....................12-16Around Town ....................................16-18

Church News ......................................... 19School Menu ......................................... 20

Esko’s Corner Esko Public School District #99 Connecting School and Community

Volume 25 Issue 5 February 2021

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage PAIDEsko MN 55733Permit No. 11

CAR-RT SORTPOSTAL CUSTOMERESKO, MN 55733

Esko Community EducationBox 10, Esko, MN 55733

Superintendent’s UpdateBy Aaron Fischer

Learning ModelsIt’s likely that I don’t need to remind any parents that

we have been in a distance-learning model since the middle of November. The School Board and I want to provide the best educational experience possible in all

of our learning models, and we recognize that having students on campus, learn-ing in person, is the ideal format for most students.

On January 6th, the School Board determined that the district will return to the learning model we started this school year. The Board voted to have Pre K-6 stu-dents back into the In Person Learning Model on January 19th and 7-12 graders back in a Hybrid Learning Model on January 25th.

Many people have asked what factors go into making decisions regarding learn-ing models, sports, safety etc. The School District reviews all of the directives and guidance provided by the State of Minnesota as well as our own internal data. There are countless hours spent on planning and making recommendations to the School Board. We take into consideration what we can accomplish safely and

what classrooms and programs we can staff appropriately. The delicate balance between what is best educationally for our students and what is safe for our stu-dents, their families, and staff is the task we have faced, and it is the most chal-lenging of my 31-year education career including my 22 years in administration. We are doing the best that we can under trying circumstances and ask for your continued patience and support.

One reason we had to move to distance learning in November was due to a lack of staff to appropriately manage a school district. We had a number of staff members that had COVID 19 and many more that were in quarantine because of a close contact with someone with COVID 19. At one point we had 50% of our bus drivers and 60% of our food service staff unavailable. Additionally, the number of teachers and paraprofessionals out with COVID 19 (positive tests and/or quarantine) made it so that we could not staff classrooms. If you are willing to be a substitute for any of our departments please contact me at 879-2969 to help alleviate staffing shortages.

The Esko community has faced many challenges over the years, and like all others, we will get through this. I thank you for your ongoing support and under-standing.

thank

you

FOR DONATING TO ESKO COMMUNITY EDUCATION!

Thank you Thomson Township

The township donated $12,000 to community education helping us to keep printing the paper among many other things. We are grateful.

We have also received $550 in contributions from the general public. We have opened our donation to Esko’s Corner class on our website for those wishing to help with the costs of the paper.

Would you rather send in a check? Please make checks payable to Esko Community Education and mail to: Community EducationP.O. Box 10Esko, MN 55733In memo line please notate donation. Thank you for all of your support!

2 - Esko’s Corner - February 2021

Community News

Publication Title - Esko’s Corner Statement of Frequency- monthly (9 months)

Authorized Organization: Esko Community Education,P.O. Box 10 2 E Hwy 61, Esko, MN 55733

Issue Number- On front coverArticles and submissions may be sent to the Esko

Community Education office or e-mailed to [email protected]. The deadline is the 15th of each month for the next month’s issue. The publication schedule can be found on the website. Articles may be edited for space and content. If you have questions, please call the community education office at 879-4038. Visit the school website: www.esko.k12.mn.us

Town of Thomson would like to pass on a reminder to all residents.

The ordinance which regulates the parking of ve-hicles within the Town of Thomson states in Section 4 that “During the period from November 1 of each year to March 31 of the following year, no person, firm, or corporation shall park any motor vehicle on the roads, streets, alleys, boulevards, sidewalks, or public grounds within the corporate limits of the Township between the hours of four o’clock a.m. and seven o’clock a.m. It shall be the duty of law enforce-ment to cause any motor vehicle that is so parked between 4 o’clock a.m. and seven o’clock a.m. to be removed and impounded, and the motor vehicle shall not be released until the fees for towing and storage of the vehicle are paid.”

If you have any questions, please contact the Town Office at 879-9719. We appreciate your cooperation.

Congratulations to these hard working Student AthletesClay Target

Letter winners: Braedyn Male, Talon Mattson, Connor Pearce, Carver Kilichowski, Derek Nooyen

VolleyballAcademic All-State Award: Sara Olson, Sydney

Grayson, Zoie JohnsonLetter winners: Taiya Gregg, Brenna Stark, Zoie

Johnson, Gabby Martenson, Sydney Grayson, Sara Olson, Madison South, Jayden Karppinen, Lilly Hanson, Kaitlin Lattner, Autumn Parask, Olivia Johnson (manag-er), Maya Emanuel (manager)

Girls TennisLetter Winners: Sarah Wagemaker, Tenley Stewart,

Jayden Karppinen

Girls SoccerLetter winners: Jordyn Randa, Emily Rengo, Sarah

Stueber, Gwendolyn Lilly, Aila Gabel, Allison Thornton, Tegan Erickson, Sydney Grayson, Sophia Iallonardo, Elsa Mowers, Ingrid Hexum, Mallory Sunnarborg, Rachel Antonutti, Maya Emanuel, Claire Anderson, Ava Korby, Avery Kuklinski, Abrianna Madill, Orie Randall, Addison Bucsko

Boys Soccer1st Team All-Conference – Drake Schramm

Letter winners: Lucas Rauner, Avery Liljegren, Drake Schramm

FootballLetter winners: Kevin Gregory, Brock House,

Elijah Blue, Dane Hoffman, Dylan Edland, Avery Liljegren, Alex Bourgeault, Cade Berger, Will Schmitz, Kieran Sinnott, Lucas Rice, Hunter Eickhoff, Gage Stankiewicz, Cody Nadeau, Jacob Bubb, Michael Urie, Nolan Dickenson, Riley Firn, Cade Gonsorowski, Brett Lillo, Keone Anderson, Aaron Peterson, Mason Perich, Chad Hart, Daniel DeMuth, Russell Anderson, Nicholas Swanson, Cole Engen, Drew Niven, Jacob Majerle, Braden Lowe, Wyatt Wickenheiser, Hunter McColley, Javontae Gregory, Cale Haugen, Carter Zezulka, Ty Christensen, Nolan Witt, Wyatt Stankeiwicz, Hunter Berg, Makoi Perich, Joey Antonutti, Ava Bucsko (manager)


Honor RollWill Abrahamson

Emma AdkinsKaitlyn AdkinsAlexandra Aker

Ashley AkerJason AmireaultClaire AndersonKarin AndersonSiri Anderson

Santiago AnichJoseph AntonuttiRachel AntonuttiEllahna BarnesEllynor Barta

Joel BartaNathan BartaAlena Beare

Mollie BelichAspen Berg

Cuinn BergerTia BertogliatCarli BloomSierra Boitz

Alexander BourgeaultCadence Brissett

Owen CampanarioSamuel CheslakAyden ChopskieJordan ChopskieMegan Chopskie

Brynn ChristensenTy ChristensenLiberty CliffordIsabelle Cloose

Avah ClowJames Cornell

Michael CornellRylee DemersOlivia DupuisKendra East

Hunter EickhoffMaya Emanuel

Mason EngCole Engen

Drew Erickson

Morgan EricksonTegan Erickson

Zachariah ErkkilaEvan ErspamerMarisa FerkulRiley Fischer

Claire FontaineMax Foster

Kaelyn FoxxKali Foxx

Ethan FredricksonFinn FurchtNoah FurchtAila Gabel

Haley GlendenningEleanor Graddy

Jack GraddyCaden GraysonRaegan GraysonSydney Grayson

Ella GrellMadelyn Haapala

Layla HagelinJamis HalversonAlec Halvorson

Annika HalvorsonLily Hanson

Macy HansonWhitney HansonMichael HardenEaston Harker

Chad HartElizabeth Hartlieb

Jay HartliebCale Haugen

Samuel HaugenStella Haugen

Braden HermanCarter HermanIngrid Hexum

Leland HillBryce Hipp

Dane HoffmanBenjamin HoltGrace Hrabik

Jacob IallonardoSophia Iallonardo

Ava IonErik JohnsonJack JohnsonKyra Johnson

Meghan JohnsonSophia Johnson

Zoie JohnsonCarsen Jones

Sophia JuntunenLucas Jurmu

Meghann KaasaJayden Karppinen

Madek KayserAlex Kazel

Sydney KazelMiranda Kelley

Evie KelseyCarver Kilichowski

Dylan KlatteAva Korby

Jayce KoskelaBritta Koski

Carson KronlundAvery KuklinskiReese Kuklinski

Connor LahtiKaylie Lammi

Kennadie LammiJordyn Landsverk

Kaitlin LattnerAmara LiljegrenAvery Liljegren

Brett LilloBrody Lillo

Gwendolyn LillyAleah LindgrenEthan LindgrenGrace Liupakka

Leo LuenseAbrianna Madill

Jacob MajerleJoelle MajerleBraedyn Male

Dylan MarciulionisMikayli Marciulionis

Kiya MarinoAva Marline

Avery MartineauNikolas MartineauAndrew Marzolf

Andrew MattinenElla Mattonen

Kaitlyn McConnellGrace McIlvain

Ella McLeodLiam McWilliams

Maxwell McWilliamsHarper Mears

Adriana MenorAdelynn Michaud

Grace MilesMegan Mismash

Emlynn MockKaiden Moe

Haley MullenLilliana MullenNeysa MuntheSofia MuntheCody Nadeau

Brandon NapoliLexxy NapperAbigail NaudSophia NaudLeah Niven

Hanna NooyenMatthew Norstrom

Owen OConnorRaegen Olson

Trenton OndrusNadezhda Oniskevich

Andrew OsborneJacion OwensJordan Owens

Madison PadgettJessica PagelkopfEzekiel PalmerSamuel PangerSophia Panger

Makoi PerichRipley PerlingerAaron PetersonAlayna PetersonEvelyn PetersonJackson Peterson

Margaret PetersonNolan Pfister

Emilia PianaltoBailey Plante

Sydney PoppenbergDrew Prachar

Mallorie ProutyLauren Radovich

Jordyn RandaOrie RandallLucas RaunerJames RautellEmelia RegasEmily Rengo

Nathaniel RengoPiper Rice

Ashley RobnikHannah Roemer

Isaac RudLillian Mae Rud

Dillon RustKaitlyn SalmelaTyler SalmelaBryn Sathre

Hope SchmitzBenjamyn Schramm

Drake SchrammAshley SchultzKatie Schultz

Ella SeboeTucker Selin

Grace ShingledeckerAraya ShoveinAddison Sielaff

Kallahan SinnottAnnabelle Skowlund

Tyler SlattengrenAubrey SnazaAiden South

Madison SouthWyatt Stankiewicz

Haley StaplesKate StaplesBrenna Stark

Brooklyn StewartTenley StewartJordan StodolaTanner StokesSarah StueberRyan Sturm

Conor SullivanDeclan Sullivan

Annabelle SunnarborgClara Swanson

Hannah SwansonPeyton SwensonTiffany Swenson

Alexis TesterJack TesterLuke Tester

Cassie ThompsonAllison ThorntonRobert Thornton

Kaylee TippleAva Townsend

Jolie UrieMichael Urie

Sarah WagemakerChase WalzJayden Walz

Amelia WardenHenry Warden

Makenzie WarnerAbigail WeberElizabeth Wells

Adeline WickenheiserWyatt Wickenheiser

Owen WilsonIsaac Wisted

Jordynne WohlingCarter ZezulkaIzaac Zimmer

Halle Zuck


Merit RollCooper AbbettAyisha AdamuKaylor Adkins

Rachel AmireaultKeone AndersonRussell AndersonSimone Anderson

Lydia AntonJaxon BenedixHunter Berg

Cairin BergerCal BerglundAva BergstedtJack Bergstedt

James BergstedtAviana Bergstrand

Emmeline BohlmanJacob Bubb

Addison BucskoAlli Campanario

Tyler CampanarioBraeden Caple

Amber CarlblomEmma CekallaJoseph CekallaJustin ChurchDavid CornellPaul Cornell

Edward CoutureIan DonnellyRilee DurovecGabriel DusekMichael DusekSophie Einbu

Anika ElsmoreAnabelle EngenHunter FarmerKaterina Ferkul

Riley FirnJeremiah Foucault

Zander GabelPatrick Gannucci

Ryan GlendenningKevin GregoryMacie Greiner

Elizabeth HaapanenJackson Hacker

Jack Hakala

Emerson HarkerCecilia HartIreland Hill

Spencer HippMadison HurstRobert HurstIlee Johnson

Jacob JohnsonJayce Johnson

Jocelyn JohnsonOlivia Johnson

Jayla JonesWilliam KarjalaBrandon KaumaJayden Keppeler

Ethan KilichowskiTallon Kiminski

Dale LaBordeKaydence LammiAddison LanthierLogan LanthierTrevor LeachBlake Leslie

Hewitt LiimatainenAva Magnuson

Anja MakiGabrielle Martenson

Allison MattinenTalon Mattson

Hannah MaunuHunter McColley

Riley McIlvainBenjamin Meysembourg

Fernando Milbridge-ScottBelle MillerAidric MockTagan Mock

Madison MosackWyatt MrozikGreta MuntheRyan Napper

Kenleigh NikunenDrew NivenCole Ondrus

John PagelkopfAutumn ParaskMason PerichWyatt Perrault

Matthew PetersonSamantha Peterson

Erin PettyjohnDylan Prachar

Samairah PrairieCelia PreinerNaomi PrusiDylan PutzkeEthan Putzke

Thomas PyrlikJacob Randa

Ainsley RaunerRylee RaymondSophia Reeves

Evan RengoAdam Rudnicki

Liana RustCarter SaloElsa SathreAva Savage

Peyton SelinAva Sheridan

Alan SkowlundCassie StarkJace Stewart

Morgan StodolaBrooklyn StreuNeela Stuermer

Heath SunnarborgNicholas Swanson

Lydia SwedbergAlexa Sykes

Mason TaylorKaija Thompson

Aiden TrueAlyssa True

Catrina VigliaturoCora Vigliaturo

Evan WeaverWyatt WeberNoah Wells

Nicole WietmanPayten Williams

Nolan WittShelby ZahnAva Zywicki


Esko’s Corner Survey ResultsSubmitted by Michele Carlson, Director

I would like to begin by giving you a synopsis of how the paper gets put together each month. When printing the paper, we work with four pages at a time. This means when we have just a little extra informa-tion that falls onto another page, we must add a full four pages. This is how we sometimes end up cutting some information that has been submitted to us, and occasionally look as if we are trying to fill pages with bigger fonts and pictures. The paper is about 95% submitted information. Monthly, I email all of our past groups that have sent information to me for the paper to remind them of the upcoming deadline. This group includes all school staff including both princi-pals, the township, churches and sometimes youth sports. The information that gets sent in to me is what ends up in the paper. The process of organizing and editing this information takes me about a week. I then send off the information to our formatting editor who places all of the information into our publishing soft-ware. This point of the process is when we find out if we need to add or delete information. The formatting usually takes ten hours. I then receive the draft of the paper to proof with our proof editor. Once proofing is complete, the paper is sent off to our printer, Forum Communications. They finish up the paper in a day. I pick up the paper from them and deliver it to our local post office the following day. I always hope that I don’t get in an accident with 2500 newspapers in the back of my car, and drive especially carefully!

Thank you for the great response we had for the survey. We had over 200 people give us feedback on

the paper. Of 237 respondents, 197 said they do read Esko’s Corner equalling just over 80%.

153 people or approximately 65% of the respon-dents said the Corner is the primary way they receive information about the school district.

161 people said they look for information about community education classes in the Corner.

Only 70 people said they would prefer to read the paper online over receiving it in the mail.

216 or about 93% of people said they believe it’s a good idea to have people sign up to continue receiv-ing the paper (for free). Many comments were made about reducing paper waste and helping the environ-ment by only mailing to people who truly want to receive the paper copy.

The amount of response we received to our fill in questions was amazing! People have lots of great ideas for additional items they would like to see in the paper. Some people would like to see a business page highlighting new and old businesses located in Esko. Others would love to see a feature about an Esko resi-dent to develop more connections in the community. Some would like to see events for senior citizens in the paper. People always want to see more pictures of school events and highlights of our local sports teams. I love these ideas! In order to fulfill these ideas, I would need to have some community volunteers willing to submit information to me for the paper. Please email me at [email protected] if you are interested in helping out! This could be a great resume or college application builder for people inter-ested in writing careers.

Items that people would like to see less of in the paper are information about preschool and commu-nity education. Sorry folks- community education is the financial driver behind the paper, so you will continue to see this information. Many comments were made to get rid of meeting minutes as they take up so much space in the paper, but an equal amount of people say they love reading the minutes. Several people requested dropping church information from the paper. Almost an equal amount said they love finding information about local churches in the paper. I bet you can see a pattern here! It’s highly likely that we will never make everyone happy with our choices about the paper, but we will continue to do our best as we work to reduce the $20,000 cost of printing and mailing the paper each year.

Because community education is funded with state tax dollars, we are not able to sell advertising in our paper, but we do accept donations from community members and businesses to help offset the costs of the paper. We have an online donation process, or you can mail checks to Community Education P.O. Box 10 Esko, MN 55733. We recognize donations in the paper of course!

I will evaluate all of the information you have given me. Keep your eyes peeled for any decisions in upcoming issues. If we choose to go to a sign up fea-ture for the paper, we won’t implement that until the August/September issue of 2021.

Again, I thank you for your feedback and continued support.


Community EducationCommunity Ed Finance SeriesThis is part 3 of a series of articles to give the com-

munity a sense of how community education financ-ing works.

~Michele Carlson

General Community Education

If you are short on time-• Community Education receives $42,689 in

state tax funding annually.• The funding formula for Community

Education has remained the same since 1987.• The state money covers staff costs for the after

school club coordinator, administrative assis-tant, and director.

• In addition, the tax money helps cover the cost of printing the paper, the copier, the phone, and office expenses.

• Adult classes must be self funded.• School Age Care ie. Cool Kids must be self

funded from fees.• Cool Kids operational costs are just over

$200,000• Esko sports teams are able to run programs

through community education and earn 90% of the revenue for their program.

General Community Education is the largest “pot” of money in the family of community education pro-grams. It includes youth enrichment programs like First Lego League Robotics, Destination Imagination, Cool Kids, youth sports, along with adult enrichment classes, after school clubs, and youth driver educa-tion.

Community Education funding is a straight for-mula of $5.42 X the population of the school district or a minimum of 1335 X 5.42. In Esko, we generate $27,978 through the formula.This funding formu-la was set in 1987 and has not been adjusted. In addition, we receive $14,711 to run all of our youth programs. In total, community education receives $42,689 from the state to run our programs. This money covers staff costs for our after school coor-dinator, administrative assistant and the director. In addition, this money helps cover the costs of printing the paper, the copier, phone bills, and general supply costs for running an office. Obviously, we need to

make money on our programs to cover all of these costs. Printing the paper alone costs nearly $20,000 annually.

Adult Enrichment classes by law can not be sup-ported by the tax funding that supports community education programs. We run adult classes as an 80/20 split with instructors. This means we pay the instruc-tors 80% of the revenue of a class and our program keeps 20%. In a fitness class like Zumba, community ed will make $75. In a typical adult art class, the pro-gram will earn around $30. These earnings help offset costs of the paper, paying credit card fees and our software registration program.

After school clubs run with the same type of pay system as adult classes. Our program’s earnings from each club are very small. The way we manage to sur-vive is by running a large quantity of offerings each month. The state money we receive covers staff costs and nothing more.

Cool Kids, our school age care program, must be run completely on fees from patrons. The costs of running school age care include staffing of approxi-mately $195,000 a year along with supply costs, soft-ware costs and training required for all of the staff. Revenue from this program also covers a portion of the director’s salary and the cost of the administrative assistant. The total operating cost for Cool Kids is a little over $200,000 per year. Our revenue is usually between $205,000 and $215,000 per year. This year, due to the Covid pandemic our expected revenue from Cool Kids is $40,000.

Youth sports programs are run so that community education makes no more than 10% of the annual revenue of the program. The fees get put back into the sport or are used as a fundraiser for a specific sport. Strength, Speed, and Agility is a good example of this. The football team generates 90% from the fees as a financial support to their program. These programs are a win win for the community to have the activity while the teams are earning money!

As always, we appreciate your support and ideas for increasing revenue for our programs.

The staff of Community Education would like to say Thank you & Good bye to Gretchen Grover as she has accepted a position in the high school office.

Gretchen has been the glue holding together the com-munity education office for the past 3 ½ years and the wonderful, smiling personality greeting everyone as they walk in our door! We will miss her!

We are looking for anAdministrative Assistant Up to 20 hours per week. Monday- Friday$15.10/hourPrevious office experience required. Please see www.esko.k12.mn.us for the full job post-

ing.ISD 99 is an equal opportunity employer.

Due to the Covid Pandemic, the community educa-tion office is operating with reduced hours.

Monday 12:00-4:00Tuesday 12:00-4:00Wednesday 8:00-4:00Thursday 12:00- 4:00Friday Closed

Due to the resignation of the administrative assistant, the main phone line may not always be answered during open office hours. Please try calling program coordina-tors directly for information:

Michele Carlson, Director 879-2969 X 622Shannon Matzdorf, School Readiness & ECFE879-2969 X 635Brianna Mattonen, Cool Kids 879-2969 X 634Emily Davey, After School Clubs 879-2969 X 633

7 - Esko’s Corner - October 2018

Community Education


Esko School Readiness helps children, 3 to 5 years of age, prepare for kindergarten and become enthu-siastic learners. Our program also helps children learn to build relationships with similar aged peers, and learn to follow routines and rules in a classroom setting. They will gain experience with science, math, art and music. Our students will also get a great deal of exposure to literacy through books and writing lessons.

We are a 4-Star Rated Parent Aware program, and are staffed by highly qualified teachers who are licensed in Early Childhood Education. Through use of age appropriate curriculum, we run a hands-on and fun learning environment. We focus on the individual child’s needs to promote a healthy love for learning.

Our staff strives to build each child’s self-esteem, develop age-appropriate social skills, and promote a confident and positive attitude toward learning. We provide an inclusive environment that offers oppor-tunities which promote understanding and value diversity. Our main goal is to prepare children aca-demically for the next learning environment.

Registration for 2021/2022 School ReadinessRegistration dates for 3’s and 4’s classes:• Current Students - (2020/2021 SR students)

March 1-5 • Esko Residents - March 8 – 12 • General Public - opens at noon on Monday

March 18th. Classes will fill on a first come basis.

Detailed information on how to register for these classes will be in the March paper and posted on the Esko Community Education Facebook page. Current students will get information from their classroom teacher by the end of the month.

This year, in an effort to keep group sizes down, we will not be holding an in person registration day for the 3’s class. If you’d like a tour of the building, or to talk with the teacher in any of the class set-tings, we can schedule individual appointments with families.

As always, we plan to hold an Open House before the start of the school year. This is a time where families get a chance to visit the classroom and staff, and turn in any final paperwork/supplies. The details on our August Open House will be announced closer to that time.

(actual dates announced once district calendar is set)

Mondays• 4’s School Readiness AM class: 8:30 – 11:00am PM class: 12:30 – 3:00 PM

• Leap-n-Learn 8:30 – 10:30 AM Drop off day (students only)

Tuesdays• 4’s School Readiness AM class 8:30 – 11:00amPM class 12:30 – 3pm

• On the Move 8:45 – 9:45am

• Tiny Tots 4:15 – 5:30pm

• Evening Adventures 6 – 7:15pm

Wednesdays• 3’s School Readiness8:30 – 11:00am

Thursdays• 4’s School Readiness AM & PM

• Leap-n-Learn 8:30 – 10:00am (parent and child day)

Fridays• 3’s School Readiness 8:30 – 11:00am

Watch for registration coming soon!

ECFE and School Readiness Schedule for 2021/22

The staff of Community Education would like to say Thank you & Good bye to Gretchen Grover as she has accepted a position in the high school office.

Gretchen has been the glue holding together the com-munity education office for the past 3 ½ years and the wonderful, smiling personality greeting everyone as they walk in our door! We will miss her!

We are looking for anAdministrative Assistant Up to 20 hours per week. Monday- Friday$15.10/hourPrevious office experience required. Please see www.esko.k12.mn.us for the full job post-

ing.ISD 99 is an equal opportunity employer.

Due to the Covid Pandemic, the community educa-tion office is operating with reduced hours.

Monday 12:00-4:00Tuesday 12:00-4:00Wednesday 8:00-4:00Thursday 12:00- 4:00Friday Closed

Due to the resignation of the administrative assistant, the main phone line may not always be answered during open office hours. Please try calling program coordina-tors directly for information:

Michele Carlson, Director 879-2969 X 622Shannon Matzdorf, School Readiness & ECFE879-2969 X 635Brianna Mattonen, Cool Kids 879-2969 X 634Emily Davey, After School Clubs 879-2969 X 633

* Photos were taken prior to the Covid pandemic


Title


Community EducationCool Kids and Cool

Cubs Fall Registration Information

Cool Kids is open to students in Pre-K to 5th grade. In order to register for Cool Kids, all Community Education balances must be paid in full. If you have questions regarding your account for Community Education, Please call 879-4038 during office hours, and we will be happy to help you.

• Cool Kids families that are currently enrolled will begin registration at noon on March 15th and continue through the 17th. Parents will receive an email with the link for registration at noon on March 15th.

• After March 17th, all families will need to regis-ter during the public registration time. PLEASE don’t forget to register if you need your spot in Cool Kids next year.

• For Families not currently enrolled in Cool Kids for the 2021-2022 school year, registration will open at noon on March 22nd and continue through March 24th or when full. Watch our school website under Community Ed, Cool Kids registration as the link will be set up there at noon on Monday, March 22nd.

Registration will be online. Once you have reg-istered online, go to the Esko School website under Community Education to find a Cool Kids tab that will have our handbook and emergency contact form. If you are unable to print those, stop in the Community Education office to pick up a copy.

ECFE Class OfferingsLeap-n-Learn ages 3 to 5 years (Must be 3 by Oct. 1st for Fall )This is a great time for children to gain pre-Kindergarten knowledge while parents are learning more

about how to guide their child through these early learning experiences. Attending an ECFE class is a great way for children, and parents, to make connections before the start of Elementary school. Class will meet 2 days per week for 1 ½ hours on the parent/child day, and 2 hours for the child only day. Children must be potty trained to attend on the Monday drop off day. You do have the option of attending only the Thursday class if both days do not work with your schedule.

On the Move ages 10 – 30 monthsThis is a great start up class for your young toddler! Parents and children do not separate during this

class.

Tiny Tots ages 12 -36 monthsParents and children enjoy some quality time together before having a short separation as well. Parents

will meet to discuss a variety of topics. This is a great chance for your child to experience some separation time while you are making connections with other parents.

Evening Adventures ages birth – 5 years This is our class that is open to families with varying aged children. Spend some quality family time

together before separating for a short parent discussion group. We focus on children ages birth to 5 years, but older siblings are welcome as well. Fun for the whole family!

Baby Buzz ages birth – 10 months*Join our Esko ECFE and School Readiness Facebook page to form connections and stay informed. More info on in person classes yet to come.

Register Now!ECFE Schedule for Spring 2021

TuesdaysEvening Adventures (Mixed Ages – Ages birth to 5 years)

Time: 6:15 – 7:30pmDates: Feb. 16, 23, Mar. 2, 9, 16, 23

Cost: $25

ThursdaysLeap-n-Learn (Mixed Ages - Ages 3 to 5 years)

We will only be meeting once per week for this first session back. We will meet on parent/child days only. Sibling Care will not be available this session.

Time: 8:30 – 10:00amDates: Feb. 18, 25, Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25

Cost: $30


Community EducationAdult

Art

Take & Make Jewelry Stamping for 10Looking for a hobby to start during these crazy

times? Why not try Jewelry Stamping! We are offer-ing a kit with everything you need to make awesome necklaces, bracelets, and key chains. This kit will supply enough items for up to 10 people, so you may call your friends or family over to have a Jewelry Stamping get together! Once you register, the kit will be available for pick up on Thursday and needs to be returned the following Monday. Pick up will be in the front entrance of the Community Education Building on Thursdays between 8-4. You take the supplies home for the weekend and make your own unique creations. Monday you may drop off the supplies in the same spot at the Community Education building between 8-4. Have fun stamping!

Cost:$50.00

Take & Make Jewelry Stamping for 5Enough materials for 5 people to make some great

creations! Pick up will be in the front entrance of the Community Education Building on Thursdays between 8-4. You take the supplies home for the weekend and make your own unique creations. Monday please drop off the supplies in the same spot at the Community Education building between 8-4. Have fun stamping!

Cost:$25.00

HOME Sign KitCreate this unique HOME sign for you or for a gift

this holiday season. The kit will include the driftwood pieces for you to make letters, rocks, twine and the board to mount it on. You need to have hot glue. You will need outdoor glue if you plan to hang this out-side.

Kits will be available for pick up in the CE entry alcove February 25th. Please keep in mind each sign will look a bit different based on the differences in driftwood pieces.

Cost:$10.00

Fitness

FIT CampGet FIT with SCHICK!! Ted Schick’s back! --- but

he’s slower and older. If you have always thought about this class in the past, now’s the time since the years have tamed him. He still intends to get you to move and get your heart rate up a bit and to use your muscles---that hasn’t changed. What also hasn’t changed is that he motivates with love, kindness and yelling. We need 10 people enrolled to run class.

Age Req:16+Cost:$36.00Instructor:Ted Schick02/10/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM Esko Schools -

Cafeteria02/17/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM 02/24/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM

ZumbaWe are happy to announce we have a NEW

ZUMBA INSTRUCTOR! Naomi Christenson has been an instructor in the are or several years and is excited to be in Esko! Zumba is a fitness cardio work-out that combines Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves that will make you forget you’re even working out! Our goal is simple...we want you to be healthy, to love working out and to enjoy exciting calorie burning, body energizing movements meant to be enjoyed throughout your life at any age! Now is the time to try Zumba!

Bring to Class: Water BottleSessions:5Cost:$35.00Instructor:Naomi Christiansen02/22/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM Esko Schools -

Cafeteria03/01/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM 03/08/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM 03/15/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM 03/22/2021 5:30PM - 6:30PM

Youth

After School Clubs

**Directly after school, students will meet for a snack and check-in in the cafeteria, then report to

their club’s meeting spot. You may pick up your child at the playground doors (door # 6). If your child will not be attending a scheduled club, please inform their teacher AND call the Community Education office at 879-4038.**

Esko Community Education cannot accept registra-tion for After School Clubs on the day of the club, due to communication with the teachers and Cool Kids regarding attendance.

Art

Take and Make Kit-Savannah’s Pottery PIC HOLDER

Did you know distance learners can participate in Savannah’s Pottery too? Decorate this cute picture holder. Using acrylic paints, decorate your item. When done, parents can help seal the paint with the included sealer.

This kit includes an unfinished pottery piece, 3-4 acrylic* paint colors and a paint sealer**

Items needed from home: a placemat, napkins and paintbrushes.

*Acrylic PaintBisque to be used as decoration. (Do not eat/drink from)**Put a thin layer let it dry and then put on the sec-

ond layer. Be careful, as it could smear with the back-and-forth of a paintbrush.

Wash your brushes with warm soapy water right after your painting session ends, rubbing it in cir-cles on the palm of your hand. Make sure you clean between the bristles too, especially the area close to the ferrule. Rinse well, squeeze it dry, and then re-shape the brush. Let your brush dry horizontally.

PICK UP INFORMATION: You may pick up your kit in the front lobby of the

Community Education building during office hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 12:00-4:00Wednesday: 8:00-4:00Friday: 8:00-12:00Items needed from home: a placemat, napkins and

paintbrushes. Age Req:1-6Cost:$13.00Instructor:Michelle Line01/28/2021 12:00PM - 4:00PM


Community Education

Savannah’s Pottery VAL CUP Decorate a fancy Valentine Cup to hold

your Valentine treats! Keep for yourself, or give a gift to a loved one.

Age Req:Grades 1-6Cost:$13.00Instructor:Michelle Line02/02/2021 3:15PM - 4:30PM Esko

Schools - S101

Savannah’s Pottery KIDS CHOICE

You choose from available pot-tery pieces!

Age Req:Grades 1-6Cost:$14.00Instructor:Michelle Line02/17/2021 3:15PM - 4:30PM

Esko Schools - S101

Savannah’s Pottery ST PAT PLATE

Is this your lucky day? Decorate a plate for St. Patrick’s Day!

Age Req:Grades 1-6Cost:$14.00Instructor:Michelle Line02/23/2021 3:15PM - 4:30PM Esko Schools - S101

Sports

Boys High School VolleyballAfter getting enough kids to play last spring, the season was canceled.

We are going to put together a team for this spring. If you haven’t heard, boys volleyball is growing in the state of Minnesota! Over 50 schools are now participating in the boys volleyball league. Help the movement for boys volleyball by joining the Esko boys team! We need to have at least 9 students to have a team. The team will be coached by Tyler Carlson, a for-mer member of the Men’s Club team from UMD. The team he played on placed third in the nation in 2019! Matches are on planned for Monday nights Initial practice times are listed below.

Cost:$200.00Instructor:Tyler Carlson

03/07/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM Esko Schools - Practice Gym Wood03/14/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM 03/21/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM 04/11/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM 04/18/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM 04/25/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM 05/02/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM 05/09/2021 6:00PM - 8:00PM

We’d like to send a huge THANK YOU to

Advantage Emblem & Screen Printing for your donation in engraving all of the mugs this month, in

addition to the financial donations we received from other local businesses and Esko community

members. All of you, together, made this gift possible!

Your donations are critical in order to provide these monthly “Gifts of Gratitude” to our PreK-12 Staff and Community Education Staff.

You can make donations at any time in

the following ways:

Venmo: @WinterquistHeroes Paypal: [email protected] (send

donation as a ‘friend’ to avoid fees) Check: made out to “Esko Pie”, mailed to Katie Siats,

12 Keanu Lane, Esko, MN 55733

If any local businesses would like to partner with us, either by donating product or financially, please reach out to

[email protected]


Winterquist Elementary NewsBy Brian Harker

Important Dates• Monday, Feb. 8: PIE Meeting – 6:30 – library• Monday, Feb. 17: No School – for students and staff

Hats off to all Parents!Just a quick thank you for supporting your child and our

school community. We feel the support and fully recognize the strain this school year has put on our families. Our partnership with families has always been a key reason for the success of Esko Schools. Thank you for supporting us!

Second SemesterIt is hard to believe, with the changes in learning models and getting back to

school In Person, but we are officially half way through the school year and enter-ing our 3rd quarter. It is important that our students continue to stay focused on their school work. Please continue to work with your children and help them make the second semester as successful as the first.

Future KindergartenersWe are already planning for next year and are excited about our new kinder-

gartners that will be joining us in the fall. If you are new to our community or don’t think you are on our census, contact the elementary office to get your child on our list. We want to make sure that each of our families will be receiving our kindergarten mailings. Please look for more information to come regarding Kindergarten Round Up and other events. If you have any questions please call the elementary office at 879-3361.

Open EnrollmentDuring the next couple months our administrative team will be deciding on

staffing needs for the 2021-2022 school year. Please notify us if you are looking at attending our school next year. This will help us as we put together classes for this fall. Families are more than welcome to call and schedule appointments to meet with me and discuss our programs and tour our facilities. We look forward to meeting you soon. To set up an appointment, please call us at 879-3361.

Time: 6:30pmLocation: Library and Virtual meeting on ZoomBoard members in attendance: Crysta Reeves, Emily Waldo, Josh Michaud,

Heather EastMinutes ApprovalApprovedTreasure ReportStarting Balance (11/01/2020): $16,640.51 Deposits (total): $90.53 Checks (total): $0.00 Interest: $0.07

Ending Balance (12/31/2020): $16,731.11

Teacher Requests 2020-21 Starting Balance: $7,250.00 Paid Requests: $0.00 Unpaid Requests: ($3,861.51) Total Remaining: $3,388.49

Food Requests Beginning Balance: $250.00 Food Requests: $0.00 Unpaid Requests: ($196.30) Total Remaining: $53.70

ESKO HEROES Starting Balance (11/01/2020): $1,849.13

Deposits (total): $6,013.83 Expenses (total): ($3,715.12) Ending Balance (12/31/2020): $4,147.84

Teacher RequestsNoneWinterquist HeroesLots of donations have come in in the past two months. Conference Meals$196.30 reimbursement for fall meal (Erberts and Gerberts) to Heather East.

Motion made and passed.The group plans to ask Super One for a donation for upcoming conferences. We

need some other business’s that could donate a meal.Conference dates are yet to be determined.Virtual Speaker IdeasBMX riders show - anti bullying speaker (in person option)Mobile Ed - virtual school assemblies option (bullying)We are researching for just this year, and we are looking for an outdoor option.Next Meeting February 8th, 6:30pm Virtual Meeting and Libraryany questions you can email at [email protected]

PIE Meeting Minutes


From Our School BoardClerk’s Minutes

The Esko Board of Education, Independent School District No. 99, Esko, Minnesota, held their regular board meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. via ZOOM.

Members present: Jeff Salo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Mark Nyholm, Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick and Todd Rengo. Members absent: none

Call the Meeting to Order Acting Chairperson Jeff Salo called the meeting to order at 6:32 p.m.

A pproval of Agenda Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Mark Nyholm to approve the agenda with modification. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm, Jeff Salo, Todd Rengo, and Margaret Sunnarborg and no nay votes.

Approval of Consent Agenda Items Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Mark Nyholm to approve the Consent Agenda

items: • Approve the minutes of the October 19, 2020 regular School Board meeting. • Approve the checks as follows:

*Pending Treasurer’s approval of 10/28/20 and 10/29/20 checks • Treasurer’s Report

o September 2020 • Donations Received:

o $75.00 from an Anonymous donor for Rachel Kubat’s classroom use. • Personnel

o Parental leave request from Anna Ryan Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm, Jeff Salo, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg and Julian Bertogliat and no nay votes.

Approve details related to moving to Distance Learning – regarding Programs. Contracts and Activities Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to approve the following recommendations to be in effect while we are in the Distance Learning Model.

• Continue the Following: o Paying all hourly employees o A and B team sports teams o Activities that are focused on Junior and Senior students (robotics, math team, one act

play, etc….)

Date Check #s Total

10/19/20 90001-90030 $68,842.46

10/28/20 90031-90093 $78,011.77*

10/29/20 90094-90098 $4,276.86*

10/29/20 Voided 88314 (21.05)

Approve details related to moving to Distance Learning – regarding Programs. Contracts and Activities Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to approve the following recommen-dations to be in effect while we are in the Distance Learning Model.

• Continue the Following: o Paying all hourly employees o A and B team sports teams o Activities that are focused on Junior and Senior students (robotics, math team, one act play,

etc….) o Asking staff to be on site during work hours. Staff that feel that they need to have the option

of working remotely would work out the details with their supervisor. Supervisors would have a set of expectations to meet before approving this

o Fitness Center physical therapy services, limited members, and scheduled varsity athletes o Daycare services for currently enrolled students, staff ’s children, and essential employees as defined by the Governor’s Executive Order

o Driver’s training o Preschool programs virtually

o Boxed lunches for curbside pick up o Community Education adult classes• Cancel or Delay the Following o Fitness Center regular use o Youth sports o Large activities (concerts, dances, etc…) o Facilities use by outside groups o Youth activities through Community Education (afterschool clubs, etc…) Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Margaret

Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm, Todd Rengo and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Moved by Margaret Sunnarborg, second by Mark Nyholm to continue Community Education adult classes according to the Governor’s recommendations. Motion car-ried by the following vote: Aye votes Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick and Mark Nyholm, Nay votes by Todd Rengo and Jeff Salo.

Approve new computers for the Business Lab at $35,000.00 Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to approve new computers for

the Business Lab at $35,000.00. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Jerry Frederick, Margaret Sunnarborg, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Approve Minnesota State High School League Form A Resolution Moved by Mark Nyholm, second by Todd Rengo to approve MSHSL Form A

Resolution. Copy on File in the office of the Superintendent. Motion carried by fol-lowing vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

Approve the Hire of Emily Johnson as District Assistant/Benefits Coordinator Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Julian Bertogliat to approve the hire of Emily Johnson as District Assistant/Benefits Coordinator, effective November 11, 2020, contingent upon positive background check. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo, and no nay votes.

Approve Hire of Steven Krueger as an ECFE Teacher Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Mark Nyholm to approve the hire of Steven

Krueger as an ECFE Teacher for 2.5 hours per week. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm, Todd Rengo and Jeff Salo, and no nay votes.

Accept the Resignation of Jill Liupakka as ECFE Parent Educator Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to accept the resigna-

tion of Jill Liupakka as ECFE Parent Educator. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Administrative Reports Principals’ Reports: Elementary School – Principal Brian Harker reported the following: • There were staffing issues the past few weeks but we have had a great response in

help from the remaining staff • Families signed up for Virtual Conferences to be held next week


From Our School Board• Staff is getting ready for Virtual Conferences, end of quarter and planning for

Distance Learning • Community is stepping up to support staff by creating a “Heroes” Group

High School – Principal Greg Hexum reported the following: • Learning Model on the website, under The Blueprint for Learning Plan, shows the

plans created by the High School and Elementary. A video of the summary of these plans is also there.

Board Committee Reports: Jeff Salo – Talking with Superintendent Fischer about ongoing Covid-19 issues.Superintendent’s Report: Supt. Aaron Fischer reported: • We do not take the decision to move to Distance Learning easily. We would prefer an

in-person model. It will take everyone to make this work. • Encourage parents, teachers, and students to communicate with each other about

concerns and adjust as needed. • We appreciate all the people working together. Congratulations and Commendations • Thanks to Michele Carlson for making the outside sign more positive. • Thanks to the teachers and the staff for all they have gone through so far this year. Adjournment There being no further business, moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Julian Bertogliat

to adjourn at 8:08 p.m. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Todd Rengo Clerk

Clerk’s Minutes The Esko Board of Education, Independent School District No. 99, Esko, Minnesota,

held a special board meeting on Friday, November 13, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. via Zoom Members present: Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm, Jeff Salo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Todd

Rengo and Superintendent Aaron Fischer. Members absent: Julian Bertogliat Call the Meeting to Order The meeting was called to order at 9:02 a.m. Approve a Resolution Canvassing the Returns of Votes of School District Election

Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to approve a resolution canvass-ing the returns of votes of the School District School Board Election. (Copy of resolution on file in the office of the Superintendent.) Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Margaret Sunnarborg, Todd Rengo, Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

Approve a Resolution Authorizing Issuance of Certificates of Election and Directing School District Clerk to Perform other Election Related Duties

Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jeff Salo to approve a resolution authorizing issuance of certificates of election and directing school district clerk to perform other election related duties. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Adjournment

There being no further business, moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to adjourn at 9:13 a.m. Motioned carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Mark Nyholm, Jeff Salo and Margaret Sunnarborg and no nay votes.

Todd Rengo Clerk

Clerk’s Minutes

The Esko Board of Education, Independent School District No. 99, Esko, Minnesota, held their regular board meeting on Monday, November 23, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. via ZOOM.

Members present: Jeff Salo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick and Todd Rengo. Members absent: Mark Nyholm


A pproval of Agenda Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jerry Frederick to approve the agenda with modification. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo, Todd Rengo, and Margaret Sunnarborg and no nay votes.

Approval of Consent Agenda Items Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Julian Bertogliat to approve the Consent Agenda

items: • Approve the minutes of the November 10, 2020 regular School Board meeting. • Approve the minutes of the November 13, 2020 special School Board meeting. • Approve the checks as follows:

• Treasurer’s Report o October 2020

Date Check #s Total

10/28/20 90031-90093 $78,011.77

10/29/20 90094-90098 $4,276.86

11/13/20 90099-90184 $4,276.86*

10/29/20 Voided 88314 ($21.05)

11/12/20 Voided 86689 ($63.93)

Electronic Transfer Report October-20

Date Account Transferred From Account Transferred Into Amount 10/02/20 PMA/MN Trust National Bank of

Commerce $225,000.00

10/02/20 National Bank of Commerce MN Dept. of Revenue (sales tax) $101.00

10/15/20 PMA/MN Trust National Bank of Commerce $500,000.00

10/30/20 PMA/MN Trust National Bank of Commerce $150,000.00

Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg and Julian Bertogliat and no nay votes.

Learning Plan Model after December 4, 2020 Discussion and Planning Superintendent Fischer discussed the Covid numbers in the county and the difficulty the district is having providing staffing at this time. He recommended following Distance Learning Model until December 22, 2020 and no activities through December 22, 2020. The future of the Learning Plan Model will be looked at again, based on new data, at the next board meeting on December 21, 2020. Change the Learning Plan Model after December 4, 2020 Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to continue Distance Learning until December 22, 2020 with a discussion on December 21, 2020 for future models. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Presentation by ICS on the Summary of the Bus Garage and Parking Lot Projects Brendon Gould shared pictures and discussed the parking lot and bus garage projects. There is still a $150,000.00 balance in the abatement bonds project. The total cost for both projects was $2,251,213.00. We came in $60,000.00 under the original budget so we were able to add the office and bathroom projects. Brendon did a final walk through today for the completion of the punch list that was created in September. The majority of the items have been completed. They will turn over final closeout documents to the District and they are preparing for the 11 month warranty walk through.

Accept Letter of Resignation from Kaleigh Maki as Cool Kids Program Assistant Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to accept the resignation of Kaleigh Maki as Cool Kids Program Assistant. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Accept Letter of Resignation by Retirement from Kristine Krocka as High School Administrative Assistant Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to accept the resignation of Kristine Krocka by retirement as High School Administrative Assistant with approval to post the resulting vacancy in the high school office. The District thanks her for her years of service. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Administrative Reports Principals’ Reports: Elementary School – Principal Brian Harker reported the following:

• Elementary Conferences were held virtually last week

Payrolls

October-20

Electronic Grand

Date Payroll Type Check's Direct Deposits Payments

Total

10/15/20 regular # 108091-108112 for $19,109.06 221,447.29 209,291.93 $449,848.28

10/31/20 regular # 108113-108130 for $19,548.08 226,393.89 208,726.87 $454,668.84


Title


From Our School BoardLearning Plan Model after December 4, 2020 Discussion and Planning Superintendent Fischer discussed the Covid numbers in the county and the difficulty

the district is having providing staffing at this time. He recommended following Distance Learning Model until December 22, 2020 and no activities through December 22, 2020. The future of the Learning Plan Model will be looked at again, based on new data, at the next board meeting on December 21, 2020.

Change the Learning Plan Model after December 4, 2020 Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to continue Distance Learning until

December 22, 2020 with a discussion on December 21, 2020 for future models. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Presentation by ICS on the Summary of the Bus Garage and Parking Lot Projects Brendon Gould shared pictures and discussed the parking lot and bus garage projects. There is still a $150,000.00 balance in the abatement bonds project. The total cost for both projects was $2,251,213.00. We came in $60,000.00 under the original budget so we were able to add the office and bathroom projects. Brendon did a final walk through today for the completion of the punch list that was created in September. The majority of the items have been completed. They will turn over final closeout documents to the District and they are preparing for the 11 month warranty walk through.

Accept Letter of Resignation from Kaleigh Maki as Cool Kids Program Assistant Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to accept the resignation of Kaleigh Maki as Cool Kids Program Assistant. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Accept Letter of Resignation by Retirement from Kristine Krocka as High School Administrative Assistant

Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to accept the resignation of Kristine Krocka by retirement as High School Administrative Assistant with approval to post the resulting vacancy in the high school office. The District thanks her for her years of service. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Administrative Reports Principals’ Reports: Elementary School – Principal Brian Harker reported the following: • Elementary Conferences were held virtually last week • The time slot choosing plan worked well based on feedback from parents • The staff was happy with the virtual conferences • Distance Learning is going on • Staff is trying to pace the workload • We are asking parents to please communicate with the teachers on how things are going

High School – Principal Greg Hexum reported the following: • The students that used the Skills Assistant position got over 50% of their missing

assignments turned in Board Committee Reports: Jeff Salo – Facilities meeting on the bus garage Margaret Sunnarborg – Community Education meeting last week. There was a lengthy

discussion during the advisory meeting regarding the losses occurring in Community Education due to Covid Margaret Sunnarborg – Non-certified negotiations meeting on

November 16, 2020 Jerry Frederick – Non-certified negotiations meeting on November 16, 2020

Todd Rengo – Non-certified negotiations meeting on November 16, 2020Superintendent’s Report: Supt. Aaron Fischer reported: • November state budget forecast is soon coming out. The state is anticipating a several

million dollar deficit • Our daycare will have challenges going forward due to community spread in our day-

care • The December 8, 2020 meeting may possibly be cancelled if there are not agenda items • Our water problem has been fixed and we will be back distance learning tomorrow

Adjournment There being no further business, moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Margaret

Sunnarborg to adjourn at 7:05 p.m. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Todd Rengo Clerk

Clerk’s Minutes

The Esko Board of Education, Independent School District No. 99, Esko, Minnesota, held their regular board meeting on Monday, December 21, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. via ZOOM.

Members present: Jeff Salo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Mark Nyholm and Superintendent Aaron Fischer.


A pproval of Agenda Moved by Julian Bertogliat, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to approve the agenda. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

A pproval of Consent Agenda Items Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Julian Bertogliat to approve the Consent Agenda items:

• Approve the minutes of the November 23, 2020 regular School Board meeting. • Approve the checks as follows:

*Pending Treasurer’s Approval • Donations Received

o Anonymous donation in the amount of $300.00 for Community Education o DonorsChoose for aquarium gravel at a cost of $39.53 for Branda Thwaits

• Treasurer’s Report o November 2020

Date Check #s Total

11/24/20 90185-90214 $44,241.61

11/30/20 90215-90216 $695.07

12/01/20 90217-90235 $25,485.66

12/04/20 90236-90258 $13,184.76

12/09/20 90259-90280 $21,310.77*

12/15/20 90281-90303 $85,212.46*

12/17/20 Voided 90228 ($681.28)*

Electronic Transfer Report

November-20

Date Account Transferred From Account Transferred Into Amount 11/30/20 PMA/MN Trust National Bank of Commerce $500,000.00


Title


From Our School Board November 16, 2020 Jerry Frederick – Non-certified negotiations meeting on November 16, 2020

Todd Rengo – Non-certified negotiations meeting on November 16, 2020Superintendent’s Report: Supt. Aaron Fischer reported: • November state budget forecast is soon coming out. The state is anticipating a several

million dollar deficit • Our daycare will have challenges going forward due to community spread in our day-

care • The December 8, 2020 meeting may possibly be cancelled if there are not agenda items • Our water problem has been fixed and we will be back distance learning tomorrow

Adjournment There being no further business, moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Margaret

Sunnarborg to adjourn at 7:05 p.m. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Todd Rengo Clerk

• Fundraiser Request o All Night Grad Party: Amazon Smile

Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Julian Bertogliat and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

Clerical Contract Modification Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jerry Frederick to change the High School Administrative Assistant position to a 10-month position at the Elementary Administrative Assistant rate of pay. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Learning Plan Model after the Holiday Break Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to follow the Governor’s guidance to bring back Preschool and K-2 students on Tuesday, January 19, 2021. Students in grades 3-12 will continue Distance Learning. Superintendent Fischer will work with the region/state committee on January 4th and will bring the final determination to the Board on January 19th. The Superintendent stated that he would like an opportunity to bring back as many grade levels as we see appropriate at the time, either in person or hybrid. That is the goal and has always been our plan to bring our kids back on site as soon as we can. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Jeff Salo and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

Extend the Skills Assistant Position for Sam Longseth Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Julian Bertogliat to extend the Skills Assistant position for Sam Longseth through the end of the current school year. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Allow Varsity, Junior Varsity and C Team Sports to Begin Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Julian Bertogliat to allow Varsity, Junior Varsity and C Team Sports to begin on Monday, January 4, 2021. However, the Board would like the administration to begin the planning necessary to bring additional grade levels back the week of the 18th. An updated determination will be made at the January 19th board meeting. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo and Mark Nyholm and no nay

Payrolls

November-20

Electronic Grand

Date Payroll Type Check's Direct Deposits Payments

Total

11/15/20 regular # 108131-108149 for

$19,889.07 233,153.27 215,554.40 $468,596.74

11/30/20 regular # 108150-108167

for $19,781.10

221,765.16 207,370.66 $448,916.92

11/30/20 adjustment # none

for $0.00

366.90 (366.90) $0.00

Clerical Contract Modification Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jerry Frederick to change the High School

Administrative Assistant position to a 10-month position at the Elementary Administrative Assistant rate of pay. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Learning Plan Model after the Holiday Break Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to follow the Governor’s guid-

ance to bring back Preschool and K-2 students on Tuesday, January 19, 2021. Students in grades 3-12 will continue Distance Learning. Superintendent Fischer will work with the region/state committee on January 4th and will bring the final determination to the Board on January 19th. The Superintendent stated that he would like an opportunity to bring back as many grade levels as we see appropriate at the time, either in person or hybrid. That is the goal and has always been our plan to bring our kids back on site as soon as we can. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Jeff Salo and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

Extend the Skills Assistant Position for Sam Longseth Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Julian Bertogliat to extend the Skills Assistant

position for Sam Longseth through the end of the current school year. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Allow Varsity, Junior Varsity and C Team Sports to Begin Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Julian Bertogliat to allow Varsity, Junior Varsity and

C Team Sports to begin on Monday, January 4, 2021. However, the Board would like the administration to begin the planning necessary to bring additional grade levels back the week of the 18th. An updated determination will be made at the January 19th board meet-ing. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Jeff Salo and Mark Nyholm and no nay votes.

Open the Facilities to Other Activities Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to open the facilities up to other

activities beginning December 22, 2020. Administration will evaluate what programs can start and when. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Jerry Frederick, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Approve adding back a Golf Team and Pairing with Proctor

Moved by Julian Bertogliat, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to add back a Golf Team and pair with Proctor High School. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Approve Wiring and Infrastructure for a Camera in the Varsity Gym at $1700.00 dol-lars Moved by Todd Rengo, and second by Julian Bertogliat to approve wiring and infra-structure for a camera in the varsity gym at a cost of $1700.00 dollars. The Sports Boosters will purchase the camera and any needed in the future. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Julian Bertogliat, Margaret Sunnarborg, Mark Nyholm, Jeff Salo and Jerry Frederick and no nay votes.

Set January School Board Meeting Dates Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to approve the January 2021 Board

Meeting dates. There will be an Organizational Meeting on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at 6:30 and a Regular Board Meeting on Tuesday January 19, 2021 at 6:30. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat and Jeff Salo with Mark Nyholm abstaining from the vote.

Approve December 2, 2020 Election Recount Totals Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jerry Frederick to reaffirm the original canvassing of

the election. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Approve the Final Levy Certification 2020 payable 2021 Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jerry Frederick to approve the final levy certification

2020 payable 2021 in the amount of $2,096,399.21. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Approved the World’s Best Workforce Plan and Summary 2020-2021 Moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Margaret Sunnarborg to approve the World’s Best

Workforce Plan and Summary 2020-2021. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Accept the Resignation of Braden Holty as Teacher Assistant for Cool Kids Moved by Todd Rengo, second by Jerry Frederick to approve the resignation of Braden

Holty as teacher assistant for Cool Kids. Motion carried by the following vote: Aye votes by Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Julian Bertogliat, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Administrative Reports Principals’ Reports: Elementary School – Principal Brian Harker reported the following: • Thank you to the Paraprofessionals for their work during Distance Learning. Half of

them have been working in the daycare and the other half have been Zooming and con-ference calling with their students

• Thank you to the parents for their support and partnership during this Distance Learning time High School – Principal Greg Hexum reported the following:

• High School staff spent several weeks in determining how to support students during Distance Learning. The Skills Assistant position has also helped with this. There has also been synchronized guidelines and communications going out and the building of a bank of best practices.

Board Committee Reports:


From Our School Board/Around TownMargaret Sunnarborg – Community Education walk through visit to see how things

are going there and Non-Certified Committee meeting on December 10th regarding the clerical contract Jerry Frederick – Non-Certified Committee meeting on December 10th regarding the clerical contract Todd Rengo – Curriculum Advisory Committee meet-ing on December 7, 2020 and Non-Certified Committee meeting on December 10th regarding the clerical contract

Mark Nyholm – He thinks the hard decisions and big changes are behind us and believes that 2021 will be better

Jeff Salo – Weekly phone meeting with Superintendent FischerSuperintendent’s Report: Supt. Aaron Fischer reported: • There will be a testing process for our staff coming back • There will be adjustments to our quarantine time • Thomson Township is offering an additional $12,000.00 dollars to the District for

Community Education Programs. They usually donate $2,000.00 dollars and will now donate $14,000.00 dollars. Superintendent Fischer thanked the Township for their gen-erous payment, and it showed the good working relationship between the Township and the District.

• January 4th will be the consultation to bring recommendations to the whole Board • Updated enrollment report

Congratulations and Commendations • To Kris Krocka for her excellent support to the High School. She is very organized

and makes unique relationships with students who may be having a hard time • To Julian Bertogliat and Mark Nyholm for their work with the District during these

struggling times Adjournment There being no further business, moved by Jerry Frederick, second by Todd Rengo to

adjourn at 7:24 p.m. Motion carried by following vote: Aye votes by Julian Bertogliat, Todd Rengo, Margaret Sunnarborg, Jerry Frederick, Mark Nyholm and Jeff Salo and no nay votes.

Todd Rengo Clerk

MINUTESTOWN BOARD MEETINGNOVEMBER 5, 2020

Present: Terry Hill, Bill Gerard, Ruth Janke, Tony Compo, Jason Paulson (remotely), Rhonda Peleski, Leah Pykkonen, David PritchettStaff also attending: Kyle Gustafson (remotely), Logan Saline, Dan Stangle (remotely), Rob Lucas (remotely), Andrew Barnebey (remotely), Chuck Schwartz (remotely)

Chairperson Hill called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Board Room at the Town Hall.

Janke made a motion to approve the minutes of the previous regular meeting. Second by Gerard. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

Gerard made a motion to approve the current vouchers in the amount of $ 105,399.24 (Check #’s 45712 – 45776) to pay payroll and due bills and electronic payments in the amount of $ 15,523.86. Second by Janke. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

Peleski provided quotes she’d obtained to replace the fabric chairs in the Board Room. After review and discussion

a motion was made by Compo with a second by Janke to purchase 60 Sidero vinyl covered chairs from Innovative Office Solutions in the amount of $ 13,126.80. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

Discussion was held on replacing the flooring in the Board Room. At the October 15 meeting the project was awarded to Contract Tile and Carpet. After further questioning regarding extra charges for prep work, it was determined that the cost for the project would be higher than the quote that was submitted. A motion was made by Compo to rescind his original motion awarding the project to Contract Tile and Carpet. Seconded by Janke. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

A motion was made by Janke with a second by Gerard to award the installation of vinyl planking in the Town Board Room to Mudek Flooring in the amount of $ 21,807. Motion carried. This includes all prep work.

Discussion was held on office staff again working from home when able. This was referred to the personnel committee to discuss further.

Gustafson reported on the recent bid opening for the expansion of the mezzanine at the fire hall to include lockers and a shower/bathroom. McGough reviewed the bids and deter-mined the total cost of the project is $ 230,556, with Alternate 1 to rough in a second bath-room/shower at a cost of $ 29,017. This is a little higher than the original estimate of about $ 254,000. A motion was made by Janke with a second by Gerard to move forward with the project including Alternate Bid 1. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

A thank you was given to staff for working to use the CARES Relief Fund money within the Township.

Gustafson updated the Board on other fire department activities. Deputy Lucas gave his report of October activities. Barnebey reported that he is still working to wrap up the Hillside Road paving project.Peleski reported on the recent election. Gerard questioned why, with the number of voters

in the township, does the town only have one polling place.A motion to adjourn was made at 7:25 pm by Gerard with a second by Compo. Motion

carried with 5 yeas.Respectfully submitted, Rhonda Peleski, Clerk/Treasurer Terry Hill, ChairpersonTown of Thomson


Around TownNOVEMBER 19, 2020

Present: Bill Gerard, Terry Hill (remote), Ruth Janke (remote – unable to hear meeting), Tony Compo, Rhonda Peleski, Leah Pykkonen, David PritchettAbsent: Jason PaulsonOther Staff Present: Logan Saline, Kyle Gustafson, Rob Lucas (remote)

Vice-chairperson Gerard called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Board Room at the Town Hall.

Compo made a motion to approve the minutes of the previous regular meeting. Second by Hill. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Janke unable to participate and Paulson absent.

Compo made a motion to approve the current vouchers in the amount of $ 109,821.78 (Check #’s 45777 – 45840) to pay payroll and due bills and electronic payments in the amount of $8,388.21. Second by Hill. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Janke unable to partici-pate in meeting and Paulson absent.

October receipts in the amount of $ 76,187.89 and October fund balances were reviewed.Resolution No. 2020-11 which allows for the reimbursement from The CARES Act Relief

Funding (CRF) of expenses related to the COVID-19 pandemic. A motion to approve the Resolution was made by Hill with a second by Compo. Resolution approved with 3 yeas, Janke unable to participate and Paulson absent. Just over $ 48,000 has been used through October 31. The remaining funds have been spent in between Nov. 1 and Nov. 15 with the balance retained for projects that are still being completed.

Peleski presented the list of delinquent sewer accounts. A motion as made by Hill with a second by Compo to approve the list in the amount of $ 7,970.85 for certification to Carlton County for collection with the 2021 property taxes. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Janke unable to participate and Paulson absent.

Two quotes were presented for updating the security system at the Town Hall. Compo inquired if a temperature alarm was included and no it was not. A motion was made by Compo with a second by Hill to have staff get new quotes to include a temperature alarm and award the work to the low submitter. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Janke unable to par-ticipate and Paulson absent.

With the new Executive Order No. 20-99 from Governor Walz all employees that can work from home are encouraged to do so. Stangle will begin working a hybrid schedule with in office hours on Tuesday and Thursday mornings and home hours the rest of the week. A motion was made by Hill with a second by Compo to reimburse up to $ 1,200 to purchase equipment needed to allow him to work more efficiently from home. Motion car-ried with 3 yeas, Janke unable to participate and Paulson absent.

Peleski and Pykkonen will continue to work from the town office. However, beginning November 23, the office will be closed to the public and open by appointment only.

Gustafson reported that the fire hall will return to virtual training. They also recently purchased gowns and received additional masks from Carlton County.

Saline reported that the bottom panels on the garage doors have been replaced at the town garage. Josh Ritchie has completed his 12-month probationary period. Beaver and their dams continue to be removed in the area of Korby and Mattson Roads.

Peleski and Saline have done an initial review of applications received for the heavy equip-ment operator position. Peleski will email the remaining applications to Hill and Compo for review.

Gerard is looking into a second polling place in Thomson Township. Peleski stated that this has been discussed through the years. It’s been felt that because of the number of judges

needed at two locations it would be hard to staff a second polling place. The wait time was longer this year due to the pandemic. Most years voters are processed with no major wait times.

Gerard reported that he will be meeting with County representatives to determine where trees can be placed by the new Canosia Road bridge. Saline wanted Gerard to be aware of a water valve in the area that will need to be excavated.

A motion to adjourn was made at 7:16 pm by Compo with a second by Hill. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Janke unable to participate and Paulson absent.

Respectfully submitted, Rhonda Peleski, Clerk/Treasurer Bill Gerard, Vice-chairpersonTown of Thomson

DECEMBER 3, 2020

Present: Terry Hill (remote), Ruth Janke (remote), Bill Gerard, Tony Compo, Jason Paulson, Rhonda Peleski, Leah PykkonenAbsent: David PritchettOther staff present: Dan Stangle (remote), Kyle Gustafson (remote), Logan Saline (remote), Rob Lucas (remote), Andrew Barnebey (remote)

Vice-chairperson Gerard called the meeting to order at 6:31 p.m. in the Town Board Room at the Town Hall.

Compo made a motion to accept the minutes of the previous meeting with one correc-tion. Second by Hill. Motion carried.

Compo made a motion to approve the current vouchers in the amount of $ 45,617.02 (Check #’s 45841-45882) to pay payroll and due bills and electronic payments in the amount of $ 8,600.01. Second by Paulson. Motion carried.

Greg Bernu , Carlton County Land Commissioner, was present to discuss the issue with beaver dams at Korby and Mattson Roads. He spoke to the County transportation department about using their equipment to remove the dam. Because of the close prox-imity to houses and utilities, the dam can’t be blasted. He suggested the Town have a mutual aid agreement with the County transportation department so each can assist the other when needed. Peleski will speak to the town attorney.

Paulson inquired if the Board would be interested in approaching Jay Cooke State Park regarding Oak Trail at the end of East Palkie Road. There are no good winter hiking trails in the township. Once the cross-country ski trail is groomed, Oak Trail can no longer be used for hiking. With support from the Board members, Paulson will contact the Park and see if the Town can lease the trail for hikers to use before the cross-country season begins.

Dan Stangle provided his monthly report. There have been six variance hearings in 2020 which is an increase from past years. He’s been working on two nuisance com-plaints. He also included an update on Starlink regarding widening their beta testing program. He encouraged the Board members to pass the information on to the residents and encourage them to look into it for their internet service.

Andrew Barnebey continues to work with KGM for the final pay application for the Hillside Road project.


Title


Around TownDeputy Rob Lucas gave his monthly report. It’s been quiet. The County deputies now

have body cameras.Compo reported on the locker room and shower construction at the fire hall. A con-

struction kick-off meeting was recently held.Janke reported that Community Education finances are tight. They’re looking for ways

to raise money.Paulson reported that the new CAFD chief has started in that position.Paulson also inquired as to how the road crew members can be included in the first

groups to receive the Covid-19 vaccinations. Pykkonen stated that the recent drive-through flu vaccination clinic was a test run for the Covid-19 vaccinations. As of now there is not a written plan in place to determine who will be vaccinated and when.

A motion to adjourn was made at 7:08 p.m. by Paulson with a second by Compo. Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted,Rhonda Peleski, Clerk/Treasurer Bill Gerard, Vice-chairpersonTown of Thomson

DECEMBER 17, 2020

Present: Terry Hill, Bill Gerard, Ruth Janke, Tony Compo (late), Jason Paulson (late), Rhonda Peleski, Leah Pykkonen, David PritchettStaff also attending: Kyle Gustafson (remotely), Logan Saline, Dan Stangle, Andrew Barnebey (remotely), Chuck Schwartz

Chairperson Hill called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Board Room at the Town Hall.

Gerard made a motion to approve the minutes of the previous regular meeting. Second by Janke. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Compo late and Paulson late.

Gerard made a motion to approve the current vouchers in the amount of $ 133,726.97 (Check #’s 45883 – 45946) to pay payroll and due bills and electronic payments in the amount of $ 9,220.10. Second by Janke. Motion carried with 3 yeas, Compo late and Paulson late.

November receipts in the amount of $ 30,785.41 and November fund balances were reviewed.

The five committee members that were assigned to review the proposals received from four engineering firms presented their findings. Three members selected AE2S as their preferred firm. Two members selected TKDA. Discussion was held regarding fees, staff-ing, office locations, building relationships, and working remotely. Janke questioned why the Board would go against previous practice and not approve the committee’s majority preference. After further discussion a motion was made by Paulson with a second by Hill to not make a decision and remain with MSA Professional Services. Motion carried with Hill, Compo and Paulson voting yea and Janke and Gerard voting nay.

Peleski presented Resolution No. 20-13 to accept donations received in 2020. A motion was made by Janke with a second by Gerard to approve Resolution No. 20-13 accepting the donations. Resolution approved with 5 yeas.

Resolution No. 20-12 which designates the Thomson Town Hall, 25 E. Harney Road, Esko, MN as the designated polling place for all elections in 2021 was presented for

approval. A motion was made by Janke with a second by Gerard to approve the resolution. Resolution approved with 5 yeas.

Peleski presented a list of anticipated year-end transfers between funds. A motion was made by Paulson with a second by Compo to approve the transfers as presented. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

Peleski presented the 2021 budget for approval. Peleski worked with the department heads to determine what changes they needed from the previous year. Changes were made to wages, health insurance, equipment payments, dust control, park improvements and developing new zoning and subdivision ordinances. It was also noted that the final payment for the town hall will be made in January 2021. A motion was made by Janke with a second by Paulson to approve the 2021 budget with receipts of $ 2,195,647 and disbursements in the amount of $ 2,247,020. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

A motion was made by Paulson with a second by Gerard to approve an agreement with Wipfli LLP to perform an audit of the Town’s 2020 financial statements. Motion carried with 5 yeas. The cost for the service will be $ 10,950.

At the 2020 Annual Meeting those in attendance approved a donation in the amount of $ 2,000 to go to Esko Community Education for the Annual Esko Fun Days celebration. Peleski inquired if the Board would still like to make that donation since Fun Days was can-celed in 2020. A motion was made by Compo with a second by Janke to continue with the $ 2,000 donation for Esko Fun Days. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

Discussion was held on the financial situation community education is facing this year because of programs that have been canceled and fundraisers not being able to be held due to COVID-19. They are asking for donations from the public so they can continue distrib-uting the Esko Corner. A motion was made by Compo with a second by Janke to allocate a one-time additional $ 10,000 to Esko Community Education from the Recreation Fund to help with operating expenses. Motion carried with 5 yeas.

Paulson reported that the Jay Cooke Park Oak Trail is now available for hikers during the winter. The trail will be groomed on one side for cross country skiers and one side for hik-ers. Dogs will be allowed but they need to be on a leash. Thank you to Jay Cooke Park staff for allowing this.

Gustafson reported that the contract with McGough is still being worked on. Barnebey is still working with KGM and Saline to settle the Hillside Road issues.Schwartz thanked the Board for remaining with MSA Professional Services.Paulson will retain his position on Arrowhead Regional Development Corporation repre-

senting rural Carlton County.Compo reported that the Fire Department has responded to over 300 calls in 2020.Carlton County Transportation has sent a bill for $ 20,000 for the engineering of the

Anderson Road bridge which was replaced in 2012. Peleski will be researching to see if there was a bill sent in 2012/2013 when the project was completed.

A motion to adjourn was made at 7:44 pm by Gerard with a second by Janke. Motion carried.

Respectfully submitted, Rhonda Peleski, Clerk/Treasurer Terry Hill, ChairpersonTown of Thomson


Title


Church NewsChurch NewsAPOSTOLIC LUTHERAN CHURCH

25 Church Road Esko, MN 55733 (PH: 879-3882)Pastor Bruce Bergstedt & Pastor Nathan Juntunen

Website: www.esko-apostolic.orgE-mail: [email protected]

Worship Schedule

Please keep an eye on our Facebook Page and website for recent updates on our worship service

schedule and weekly events as this schedule is sub-ject to change.

Sundays: 9:00 am In-Person Worship Service – All

Ages*(3rd Sunday - Holy Communion)

Livestream Worship Services are available on our YouTube channel - Esko Apostolic.

† Check out our Church website at www.esko-ap-ostolic.org. There are pictures, upcoming events, bulletins, church calendar, cemetery information

and more.

ST. MATTHEWS LUTHERAN CHURCHAnd Little Eskomo Lutheran Preschool4 Elizabeth Avenue - Esko, MN 55733

218.879.3510 - www.stmatthewsesko.org

A family of believers grounded in, growing in and reaching out in Christ

Pastor Tom Brinkley 218-343-2080

Sundays:Worship:10:30 am Worship with safety guidelines

St. Matthews is also offering online worship via St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church Facebook at 10:30 am

and posted to our website www.stmatthewsesko.org

9:30 am TV Option Channel 6 (KBJR) airs “My Savior Lives”

Bible Study 9:15 am with Pastor Tom via Zoom

Tuesdays: Coffee with Pastor 9 am via St. Mat-thew’s Lutheran Church Facebook

Youth Bible Study 3:30 pm via Zoom

Wednesdays: Worship:6:30 pm Ash Wednesday Worship with commu-

nion (February 17)6:30 pm Lenten Worship (February 24)

Thursdays: Youth Group (grades 7-12) 6 pm via Zoom

Experience Recovery 6 pm

We have a Care and Outreach task force set up to

help those in need. Please call the church office if you or someone you know has a need. God is with

us!

For Additional Information and updates, Check Our Website.

www.stmatthewsesko.org

NORTHWOODUNITED METHODIST CHURCH

The church with a BIG heart.62 W. Hwy. 61 ~ Esko, MN 55733

608.495.3147 ~ www.northwoodesko.com

Pastor Brian [email protected]

Sunday OUTDOOR Worship: 9:00 am Northwood UMC Parking Lot

Tune in from the comfort of your car! FM 87.9

Sunday ONLINE Worship: 9:00 am Facebook: https://bit.ly/2ECUWQH or

You Tube: https://bit.ly/2CU7uC8 Regularly Scheduled Upcoming Events and

Special Events have been cancelled or postponed until further notice.

Please check for updates on postponed events by contacting Ann at [email protected]

NUMC VISION STATEMENT Northwood UMC is an open,

welcoming, seven-day-a-week church that shares God’s spirit, serves as a

community hub and sponsors good works. www.northwoodesko.com


Lunch MenuFebruary 2020

Breakfast is served from 7:50 - 8:10 amNo Charging Meals

FEBRUARY 2021 IN-PERSON / HYBRID LUNCH MENU SUBJECT TO CHANGE

This institution is an equal opportunity provider.

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 1 Breakfast: Muffin, Yogurt or String Cheese Lunch: Chicken Nuggets, Twister Fries, Green Beans, Dinner Roll, Fruit

2 Breakfast: Mini Pancakes Lunch: Hamburger/Bun, Cheese Slice, Oven Fries, Baked Beans, Fresh Veggie Cup, Fresh Fruit

3 Breakfast: Sausage Breakfast Pizza Lunch: Chili, Cheesy Bosco Stick, Carrots/Celery Sticks, Crackers, Fruit

4 Breakfast: Cinnamon Roll, HB Egg Lunch: “Lunch Brunch” French Toast, Sausage Links, Tri Tater, Baby Carrots, Applesauce

5 Breakfast: Colby Cheese Omelet, Mini Bagel Lunch: Cheese of Pepperoni Pizza, Romaine Lettuce Salad, California Veggie Mix, Fruit

8 Breakfast: Muffin, Yogurt or String Cheese Lunch: Shrimp Poppers Au Gratin Potatoes, Steamed Peas & Carrots, Dinner Roll, Fruit

9 Breakfast: Mini Waffles Lunch: Chicken Patty/Bun, Waffle Fries, Baked Beans, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Fruit

10 Breakfast : Sausage Breakfast Pizza Lunch: Spaghetti in Meat Sauce, Garlic Toast, Cottage Cheese, Whole Kernel Corn, Frozen Fruit Cup

11 Breakfast : Donut, HB Egg Lunch: Turkey Sub, Cheese Slice, Cole Slaw, Green Beans, Pickle Spear, Fruit

12 Breakfast: Colby Cheese Omelet, Mini Bagel Lunch: French Bread Pizza, Spinach/Lettuce Salad, Broccoli with Cheese Sauce, Fruit

15 NO SCHOOL

16 Breakfast : Mini Pancakes Lunch: Hot Dog/Bun, Baked Beans, Potato Salad, Chips, Fresh Veggie Cup, Fruit

17 Breakfast: Sausage Breakfast Pizza Lunch: Chicken Wild Rice Soup, Turkey Sandwich, Crackers, Lettuce Salad, Fruit

18 Breakfast: Cinnamon Roll, HB Egg Lunch: Mandarin Orange Chicken, Fluffy Rice, Stir Fry Veggies, Bread Stick, Pineapple Tidbits, Fortune Cookie

19 Breakfast: Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza, Romaine Lettuce Salad, Green Beans, Fruit

22 Breakfast: Muffin Yogurt or String Cheese Lunch: Sloppy Joe/Bun, Cheese Slice, Whole Kernel Corn, Baby Carrots/Dip, Fruit

23 Breakfast: Mini Waffles Lunch: Mini Corn Dogs, Baked Beans, Tater Tots, Fresh Veggie Cup, Fruit

24 Breakfast: Sausage Breakfast Pizza Lunch: Turkey Gravy, Whipped Potatoes, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Biscuit, Cranberry Sauce

25 Breakfast: Donut, HB Egg Lunch: Breaded Chicken Drumstick, Mac & Cheese, Steamed Mixed Vegetables, Dinner Roll, Fruited Gelatin

26 Breakfast: Colby Cheese Omelet, Mini Bagel Lunch: Cheese Pizza Crunchers, Lettuce Salad, Normandy Vegetable Mix, Fruit

*No alternate or Ala Carte (Smart Snack) line available at this time. *Menu Subject to change

*Low fat or fat free milk available daily with breakfast & lunch. *Fruit & a juice cup offered daily with breakfast. *WGR cereal may be substituted for main breakfast item.

View student’s meal accounts

on Parent Portal

School Lunch/Breakfast Prices:Lunch:Grades 1-6.....................$2.30Grades 7-12...................$2.40Adults.............................$3.75Reduced Lunch...............$.00Milk..................................$.35

Breakfast:Kindergarten...................$.00Grades K-12..................$1.10Adults.............................$1.80Reduced Breakfast..........$.00Milk..................................$.35

Please send check in an envelope labeled with exactly what is being purchased. Lactose reduced milk will be provided to a student upon written request from a parent/guardian.

Documents

U.S. Postage PAID Esko’s CornerDane Hoffman Benjamin Holt Grace Hrabik Jacob Iallonardo Sophia Iallonardo Ava Ion Erik Johnson Jack Johnson Kyra Johnson Meghan Johnson Sophia Johnson