SAINTSÂ SENTINEL SAINT CHARLES PUBLIC SCHOOLS QUARTERLY PUBLICATION OF I.S.D. 858 AUGUST 2020
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a virtual graduation ceremony On May 31 a virtual graduation ceremony live streamed online allowing all to view digitally. Students and their families signed up for individual time slots to walk across the stage and to have their photo taken in the High School gymnasium. Congratulations to the Class of 2020!
Elementary Groundbreaking On June 15, St. Charles Public Schools Administration, Nexus Solutions, School Board Members and some Task Force Members participated in the Ground Breaking Ceremony at the Elementary SchoolÂ
what's inside?
- School supply list - Elementary Open House - Athletics information & more!
First Day of School Monday, August 24, 2020
Letter from Superintendent Jeff Apse July 20, 2020
August Issue 2020
Dear Parents and Guardians, In response to the COVID-19 Pandemic and the desire to provide in person learning to students in the State of Minnesota as much as possible during the 2020-2021 school year, the Minnesota Department of Education has charged all Minnesota Public and Charter schools with creating three instructional models: In Person Learning, Hybrid Learning, and Distance Learning. Guidelines and requirements for the three models were developed through a collaboration between the Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). The intent of the three models is to provide each school district with flexibility to transition from one model to the next depending on the status of the COVID-19 Pandemic in their communities. St. Charles Public Schools’ In Person Learning model is our traditional instructional model that students and their families have been accustomed to with the exception of specific requirements and recommendations that have been passed down to us from the MDE and MDH to help promote the safety of our students and staff when gathering together in our buildings. Our Hybrid Learning model mixes in person and distance learning. Hybrid essentially means reduced capacity. If the state of the pandemic in our schools’ communities rises to a level where State health officials advise our District to continue with in person learning while also strictly enforcing building capacity limits and social distancing, we will implement our plan. To help ensure that we are able to meet the Minnesota Department of Health’s requirements for this model, daily student attendance for K-12 programming will be reduced by 75%. On any given day, one-fourth of our students will be expected to attend our schools in person while the rest will be engaged in Distance Learning. Our Distance Learning model is similar to what we implemented this past spring with improvements made to enhance student and teacher interaction, and to also enhance our students’ opportunities for engaging and collaborating with their peers who are attending class in person or choosing to distance learn themselves. Regardless if we are able to provide instruction through our In Person or Hybrid models, families who are not comfortable with sending their children to our schools to participate in person may choose to have their children engage exclusively through Distance Learning. Our Distance Learning model allows some flexibility for our schools to close temporarily (for a few days or a couple weeks at a time) if COVID-19 exposure in our schools warranted it and if we needed time to mitigate the exposure. Our school district is preparing for the 2020-2021 school year with no intention to fully implement or require all students to engage in Distance Learning for extended periods of time. Shifting to implement our distance learning plan for an extended period of time like we did this past spring, would mean the state of the pandemic in our communities is so dire and at a level that State health and education officials take action to mandate schools and other organizations in our area to shut down. The most recent draft of our plans and supporting information can be found at: https://www.scschools.net/flexiblelearningplan/. Please note that many of these changes you see when reviewing our plans are intended to be temporary and are subject to change as conditions surrounding the pandemic continue to improve. Our plans are intended to be addendums to existing District Policies. Questions relating to the educational programming and procedures in place for your child(ren)’s school or program can be directed to our High School Principal, Dr. Ben Bernard, bbernard@schs.k12.mn.us; and our Elementary Principal, Ryan Ihrke, rihrke@schs.k12.mn.us. Questions about Preschool, ECFE, SACC or other Community Education programs can be directed to our Community Education Director, Julie Siebenaler, jsiebenaler@schs.k12.mn.us. Questions you have about the symptom screening protocol, and the exclusion of students who have or may have been exposed to COVID-19 can be directed to our School Nurse, Justine Reinhardt, jreinhardt@schs.k12.mn.us. Our staff has greatly missed working with your children and with you. We are excited to be able to welcome you back this fall.
FACILITY PROJECT UPDATE Our School District has been making steady progress on facility improvements.
Sincerely,
Jeff Apse Superintendent of Schools
ALL ARE WELCOME AT ST. CHARLES PUBLIC SCHOOLS Dear Parents and Guardians, The 2020-2021 school year marks the start of my 22nd year as an educator. The summer of 2020, has been difficult. Just as we were closing out a school year where we spent the last two and a half months cut off from connecting in person with our students and their families, we observed the tragic killing of George Floyd. The killing of Mr. Floyd sparked a loud cry for change that has been building up in our State, our Nation, and the World for a long time. I have had conversations with my own children the past couple of months. I have shared with them that I can’t understand what it feels like to be judged or discriminated against based on the color of my skin, and even though I can’t understand what that feels like, I do know and believe that it is morally wrong to hate, judge, or discriminate against anyone for any reason. The opportunity to raise a child is a gift. As parents, the lessons we teach in our homes have a direct impact on how our children see the world. While schools can help shape who our children will become someday, there is no greater influence on our children than the lessons they learn in their homes. Throughout my career in education, I have found it difficult to resolve student conflicts when the morals and values taught in the home are not consistent with what is being taught in our schools. Creating a world free from prejudice and discrimination takes everyone working together to instill the values of respect for others, love, and kindness. At St. Charles Public Schools we are committed to building schools where all are welcome, respected, and valued. Experiencing anything in our schools that would lead your children to feel otherwise contradicts what our schools stand for, and we encourage you to reach out to our staff, our administration, and our School Board to share your suggestions on what we can do to better serve your children. “Treat others the way you want to be treated,” a phrase often referred to as “The Golden Rule,” has been passed down for generations, taught within many religions, and embraced by many cultures. When I began my career as a teacher, I made the mistake of having a long list of rules for my classroom. By the time I began transitioning into administration, my classroom had one rule, “treat others the way you want to be treated.” If everyone could strive to embrace what human beings have been saying to each other for thousands of years, the world would be a more welcoming place. Respectfully, Jeff Apse Superintendent of Schools
A new synthetic turf field was installed on the high school soccer field this summer. The project was officially finished in early July. The field is prepped for both soccer and football with markings for both sports along with goal posts for football. The solution helps to address green space issues, provides for a consistent usable space for outdoor physical education, provides a quality practice field and competition field for our soccer programs, provides for flexibility to accommodate our football, track and field, baseball, and softball programs, and provides a field that can be regularly used throughout the fall, spring, and summer months to support offseason high school activities, community education and park and recreation. Long terms plans for the track and field complex include making the area more versatile to catering to larger events by increasing seating capacity around the track and field area, while developing a permanent solution for concessions, and restrooms. New football bleachers were recently installed around the football and baseball field. The new bleachers increase seating capacity and address issues with access for people with disabilities. Plans are underway to reconstruct the trail on the northwest side of the high school campus that leads from the parking lot to the football field. On June 15, 2020, an official ground breaking ceremony was held for our Elementary construction projects made possible by the community voting to support the 2019 referendum. A new cafeteria and kitchen are being constructed that increases our serving and dining capacity. The pre-existing cafeteria and kitchen will be remodeled into three classrooms to help provide additional space for our preschool, early childhood family education, and School Age Child Care programs. The construction will create some inconveniences for the 2020-2021 school year (construction occurring in and around the building during the school day, the playground and basketball court areas are closed for the time being, bus pickup and drop off will be rerouted to travel from south to north on Church Avenue, and parents are encouraged to drop their children off and pick them up on East 11th Street) but the inconveniences are temporary. We anticipate that we will be able to begin using the new kitchen and cafeteria by mid-winter and that the entire Elementary project will be complete in late spring/early summer 2021. Significant progress has been made mapping the plans for our upcoming High School construction projects. Projects include the construction of a new student commons area, an expanded area for Career and Technical Education, four new science classrooms, a new kitchen, an additional gymnasium, multi-purpose area, and the remodeling of the pre-existing cafeteria into a new weight room. Projects also include updates and remodeling to other classrooms and a series of deferred maintenance projects including the abatement of existing asbestos, the replacement in tile of multiple classrooms, and a new gym floor. We anticipate that the projects will go out for bid this fall, and that the full scale of projects we have planned for the high school will be completed by December, 2021. You can learn more about the projects we are pursuing over the next two years and stay updated on the progress by checking out our Construction Project Updates website at: https://www.scschools.net/page/6213.
High School Principal - Dr. Bernard August Issue 2020 I hope you have had a good, albeit short, summer break. Staff will return to work on August 17th and students will follow on the 24th . Even though we ended the school year in a different manner last year, and we could possibly start differently this year, please encourage your student to be involved in something outside of the classroom here at the school. We provide a wide array of extracurricular activities and students need to stay connected. Academically St. Charles Schools moved up in the 2020 US News and World Report rankings. (If you are reading this online you can click HERE for the report). We are the highest ranked school in southeast Minnesota and the 32nd ranked school in the state of Minnesota This is a very nice honor that the students, parents, and staff should be proud of. With everything that is going on in the world right now, know that we will do our best to provide a safe, welcoming space for the students, staff and public. We encourage all of our students to improve in all aspects of their lives. We will do the same as a staff and school. We will listen to the experts, our students, and our community and we will get better and stay safe together. Have a great relaxing rest of the summer. As always, if you have any questions, please contact me.
Ben Bernard
St. Charles Public Schools Mission Statement To involve and challenge every student by fostering relationships so they can achieve at their highest levels. ATTENDANCE Good attendance is an essential ingredient in student achievement. Class discussions and other interactions with staff and students are valuable learning experiences that cannot be duplicated in any other way. Good attendance is also a trait highly valued in the workforce. Attendance habits acquired in school tend to carry over into the workforce after graduation. Student Responsibility It is the student’s responsibility to attend all assigned classes. If it is necessary to be absent, the student must have the parent phone the school to request an excused absence by 8:00 a.m. If the parent is not able to make that call by 8:00 a.m., the student must call to inform the school of the absence and then have the parent call or write a note requesting an excused absence within 24 hours. Any absence not cleared by the parent within the 24 hours will be considered unexcused and referred to the principal. Following an absence, the student must pick up an admit slip from the office and show it to each teacher whose class was missed. If a student needs to leave school at any time during the school day, the student must come to the office to get a pass. It is the student’s responsibility to request any missed assignments due to an absence. Parent Responsibility It is the responsibility of the parent to ensure the student is attending school regularly and to call the school when the student will be absent to request the absence be excused. It is the school’s right and responsibility to determine whether or not the absence will be excused. Whenever possible, the parental request should be made by 8:00 a.m. so that the school can account for the student’s absence. The parent may phone the school at any time, day or night, (507-932-4420) and leave a message on the attendance voice mail. If you have a question as to if an absence will be excused, contact the principal. It is the school’s position that the following are valid reasons for an excused absence being granted from class: Illness. Serious illness in the student’s immediate family. A death or funeral in the student’s immediate family or of a close friend or relative. Medical, dental, or orthodontic treatment, or a counseling appointment. Court appearances occasioned by family or personal action. Religious instruction not to exceed three hours in any week, unless it is a religious holiday. Physical emergency conditions such as fire, flood, storm, impassable roads, or weather that may make travel unsafe. Official school field trip or other school-sponsored outing. Removal of a student pursuant to a suspension. Suspensions are to be handled as excused absences and students will be permitted to complete make-up work. Family emergencies. Active duty in any military branch of the United States. A student’s condition that requires ongoing treatment for a mental health diagnosis. Pre-approved unique situations by the principal. Examples of absences generally considered to be unacceptable and unexcused are: Truancy. An absence by a student which was not approved by the parent and/or the school district. Any absence in which the student failed to comply with any reporting requirements of the school district’s attendance procedures. Oversleeping. Missed bus. Late evening activities, school-related or otherwise. Work. Shopping, tanning, hair appointments, or senior pictures. Baby-sitting. Excessive car problems. Any other absence not included under the attendance procedures set out in this policy. Unexcused Absence Consequences Failure to be in one’s assigned classes without parental and school approval will be viewed as an unexcused absence and will result in detention, Saturday School or suspension. Every period missed can result in at least one hour of detention, Saturday School, or in-school suspension. Excessive Absence Procedures When the number of absences – excused or unexcused – reaches an excessive amount (no more than 5 a quarter or 20 per school year) an attendance official may notify the parents and the student, that the district will be implementing an attendance contract. This contract may include dropping credit after five absences in any period during any quarter, serving Saturday School, or requiring medical notes for all subsequent absences before they are excused. These absences can also be verified by a doctor or the school nurse. A contract can be implemented in cases of excessive illnesses. While parental and student approval of the contract is recommended, it is not required for the school to implement the contract. The attendance contracts may be implemented at any time during the school year, including at the beginning of the year, if the previous year’s attendance has been unacceptable. Students with an unexcused absence will not be allowed to make up any work missed as a result of that unexcused absence. In addition, work that was due the day of the unexcused absence will not be allowed to be turned in for credit.
TRUANCY "Continuing truant" means a child between the ages of 12 and 17 who is subject to the compulsory instruction requirements of section 120A.22 and is absent from instruction in a school, as defined in section120A.05, without valid excuse within a single school year for: (1) three days if the child is in elementary school; or (2) three or more class periods on three days if the child is in middle school, junior high school, or high school. Nothing in this section shall prevent a school district or charter school from notifying a truant child's parent or legal guardian of the child's truancy or otherwise addressing a child's attendance problems prior to the child becoming a continuing truant. "Habitual truant" means a child under the age of 17 years who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for seven school days per school year if the child is in elementary school or for one or more class periods on seven school days per school year if the child is in middle school, junior high school, or high school or a child who is 17 years of age who is absent from attendance at school without lawful excuse for one or more class periods on seven school days per school year and who has not lawfully withdrawn from school under section When a student has accumulated five instances of truancy, the student and parent will be required to meet with a school official and possibly the County Truancy Officer to devise a plan to avoid any further instances of truancy. TARDIES Students are allowed three tardies per class, per semester. On the third tardy, the teacher will talk to the student and send an office referral to the principal. The student will be given a warning that the next referral will result in an office detention. For each subsequent tardy in the semester the student will be assigned a detention.
Please note that until further notice dates and activities are subject to change listed in this newsletter and will be communicated to our district families.
Thank You!
Fall Sports Information - Grades 7-12 August Issue 2020
All athletic fees must be paid online using RevTrak https://scschools.revtrak.net
ATTENTION: 7th & 10th graders participating in Fall athletics! Please have your physical and paperwork completed and turned into office before the first day of practice. Once turned in you will receive an admission card that must be presented to your coach on first day of practice.
2020-21 Admission Fees Events Admission is charged to attend all varsity, B-squad, and 9th grade sporting events. Admission fees to events at St. Charles High School:
Adults $6 Students $4 Discount passes for adults and students can be purchased in the High School Office or at the admission gate.
Adult Punch Card: 10 events for $50 Student Punch Card: 10 events for $30 All Season Sport Passes are available for purchase in the High School or Elementary School Offices. The pass will admit students (K-12) to regular season sporting events for the 2020-2021 school year. The cost is $35.00 per student. Please contact Laura Schaber (lschaber@schs.k12.mn.us) or Kay Muschler (kmuschler@schs.k12.mn.us) if you would like to purchase.
Insurance Information The School District does not provide any type of health or accident insurance for injuries incurred by your child at school. We encourage all families to have accident coverage on their children, prior to participation in any interscholastic sports or if a family’s current primary health insurance has a high deductible, Co-Insurance Clause and/or limitation on medical benefits. Visit Student Assurance Services for more information or stop in the High School or Elementary Office for more information. http://www.sas-mn.com/
Intramural Golf
Requirements for Athletic Participation All athletes will be given an eligibility admission card from Mrs. Schaber upon completion of the registration process. Athletes must present this card to their coaches on the first day of practice in order to start their season. Under NO circumstances will an athlete be allowed to participate until they give the eligibility card to their coach. ATHLETIC FORMS CAN BE FOUND ON SCHOOL WEBSITE: https://www.scschools.net/page/3268 or stop in the High School office. The following must be on file in the Athletic Office for students to be eligible to participate in athletic activities: 1. $50 FEE - all payments must be paid online There's a $150 maximum per family per year. Fee scholarships are available to families in hardship. 2. MSHSL FORM Parents and student must sign the eligibility form on both sides. This is done once per school year. 3. INSURANCE FORM Enroll in the optional insurance or sign the insurance waiver. This is done once per school year. 4. PHYSICAL All sports physical is required every three years. All forms and fees must be submitted to Mrs. Schaber in the High School office. No forms or fees will be collected at any informational meetings during the school year. Find the forms at: https://www.scschools.net/page/3268 Are you transferring to our district? Clarify any transfer issues if you are a new student to the district or if you have changed your educational instruction in any way such as online learning, homeschool, PSEO, etc. Any questions should be addressed with Athletic Director, Mr. McCready at: smccready@schs.k12.mn.us
FALL SPORTS BEGIN AUGUST 17th, 2020
St. Charles Schools will again offer intramural golf to all boys and girls in grades 6-12 this fall. The purpose of this program is provide another activity for any students not participating in any other fall extra co-curricular activity to join in for some golf at a great price. It is open to players of all skill levels. So whether you are a person who has never golfed before and you think you would like to try it, playing with your friends in a non-competitive fashion, or you are a member of the boys or girls golf team who is not in a fall sport, this activity is for you. It’s the perfect way to participate in an activity and learn a lifetime sport that we are sure you will enjoy if you give it a try. It’s a great time to be on the course! Details below. COST: $50.00 for players who are not already members of the golf course, and free to players who do have a membership. LOCATION: St. Charles Golf Course EQUIPMENT: A set of clubs, along with either golf or tennis shoes. If you want to play and don’t have clubs, we have a few spare sets. Or, check the garage of relatives and hit the garage sales and find yourself an inexpensive set. TRANSPORTATION: Students are responsible for their own ride to and from the golf course. Most get rides from parents or friends, or set up car pools. WHEN DO YOU PLAY?: This is the beauty of intramurals! You play on the days you want to and you play as often as it fits your schedule. Arrive at the course by 3:20 on any day you want to play and we will get you started. You can then stay as long that day as you want – you decide how many holes to play. And the best thing – your $50 covers all of this! Many years we have players who play more than 25 times making their total cost less than $1.00 per day. And if you go only twice you have gotten your money back in green fees.
Any student entering 7th or 10th grade, please complete your physical & paperwork before the 1st day of Fall practice.
INVOLVE CHALLENGE ACHIEVE
Complete all paperwork, physicals, and pay sports fees to the athletic office prior to the first day of practice!
If you are interested, fill out the registration form below, and send it to the address given, or, bring the registration form to room 210 of the high school.
Intramural Golf Registration Form Name ____________________________________ Grade ____________ ARE YOU A MEMBER OF THE ST CHARLES GOLF COURSE? _____ SEND REGISTRATION ALONG WITH $50 CHECK PAYABLE TO SCHS TO: TERRY KNOTHE, ST CHARLES HIGH SCHOOL, 600 E 6TH ST, ST CHARLES, MN 55972
All athletic fees must be paid online using RevTrak: https://scschools.revtrak.net
Fall Sports Information - Grades 7-12 August Issue 2020
Boys Soccer
Volleyball
Preseason Meeting: Thursday, August 13 th, 6:00 p.m. Meeting will be conducted virtually. First Day of Practice: Monday, August 17th, 4:00 p.m.- 8:30 p.m., SCHS Soccer Field. Make sure ALL paperwork is DONE and turned in to the athletic office before the first day of practice. Any questions, please contact Head Coach Jeff Apse at 507-273-3089 or japse@schs.k12.mn.us. Check out the team website at: https://www.scschools.net/page/4310 for information about the upcoming season.
Please make sure ALL paperwork is DONE and turned in to the athletic office before the first day of fall practice.
Cross Country Athletes and parents of athletes who are interested in joining the Saints Cross Country team this fall, please contact Coach Laura Edlund by Wednesday, August 12 in order to receive emailed information about the season. Practice will be begin Monday, August 17th at 3:30 pm. Coach Edlund can be reached at ledlund@schs.k12.mn.us.
Saints Cheer
Fall Sports Coaches and Contacts Girls Soccer: Head Coach Paul Pierre contact at: 507-261-3218 or paulpierre19@gmail.com Boys Soccer: Head Coach Jeff Apse contact at: 507-273-3089 or japse@schs.k12.mn.us Football: Head Coach Matt Reinhardt contact at: mreinhardt@schs.k12.mn.us Volleyball: Head Coach Tracie Schaber contact at: tschaber@schs.k12.mn.us Saints Cheer: Head Coach Welper contact at: kwelper@schs.k12.mn.us Boy and Girls Cross Country: Coach Laura Edlund contact at: ledlund@schs.k12.mn.us Athletic Director: Scott McCready contact at: 932-4420 or smccready@schs.k12.mn.us
*Activities transportation information can be found at the end of this newsletter.
TRYOUTS - August 3-6 from 5:30-7:30 PM at the High School Courtyard on the side of the school nearest the new turf field. This is for grades 7-12. Students will need an eligibility ticket from the high school office before participating. Any questions please reach out to Coach Welper at kwelper@schs.k12.mn.us
Football Grades 9-12: The first day of practice is Monday, August 17th. We will meet at the High School outside of the locker room entrance at 3:15 pm. Grades 7-8: The first day of practice is Monday, August 17th. We will meet at the high school outside of the locker room entrance at 3:45 pm. **Make sure you have your eligibility ticket from the athletic office prior to the first day of practice** Any questions please contact: Head Coach Matt Reinhardt at mreinhardt@schs.k12.mn.us
Social Networks page
Please note that information found in this newsletter is subject to change and will be communicated to our district families as information comes available.
Thank You!
Volleyball Preseason Meeting: Parent meeting will be August 10th at 6:30 in the HS gym. First day of practice is Monday, August 17th. Any questions please contact Head Coach Tracie Schaber at: tschaber@schs.k12.mn.us
An updated and convenient way to find a club link and start to follow their social media page can be found on our school website. Head to our Social Networks page here: www.scschools.net/socialnetworks/ or click Social Networks in Quicklinks on our website homepage. Begin to follow your favorite Saints club or team and be in the know!
All Fall Sports begin Monday, AUGUST 17TH Please pay ALL Athletic Fees Online Using RevTrak!
Congratulations Mr. Koestler! Industrial Tech teacher, Chuck Koestler, has retired after 32 years of service with St. Charles Public Schools. Thank you Chuck, we wish you the best in your retirement!
Congratulations!
High School News August Issue 2020
Peer Helper Corner We said goodbye to our seniors at the end of the school year and (soon) will say hello to six new incoming sophomores for next school year! Due to “distance learning” this spring, the recruiting/nominating process happened within the freshman class (via google forms) at the end of May. Current peer helpers put together a short video describing the peer helper program sharing with all freshman the positive qualities of a peer helper, and reiterating the fact that our group has been around for more than 30 years. Above all, they shared that we believe many times students prefer to talk to their peers about things going on in their lives – forming the framework of our group. All freshman were then asked to nominate (individual ballots) one person in their class that they would trust to discuss a personal problem with. Nominations have been tallied and plans are in motion for our current peer helpers to gather soon in order to vote. We’ll be able to announce & welcome our six new members soon so stay tuned! All peer helper members will be required to attend our annual Fall Peer Helper Retreat at the Mount Olivet Conference & Retreat Center near Farmington, MN the weekend of September 26-27, 2020. More details will follow late summer.
Advisors: Mike Smith and Theresa Nunemacher
www.scschools.net
Find Current Announcements, Programs, Community Education, Forms, Online Payment, and so much more!
2021 Washington D.C. Trip We are excited to announce the incoming 9th grade student's Washington D.C. trip dates for 2021! The 9th grade students will be gone from June 6-12, 2021. The first planning meeting for the trip will be held in the fall of 2020. More information to come after school starts. The incoming 10th grade student's Washington D.C. trip dates for 2020-2021 will be announced as soon as the trip can be rescheduled. We are looking forward to traveling with our 10th graders on their postponed class trip. If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Backes or Mrs. Hoffman.
7th Grade Supply List - 8 folders - 7 notebooks - 1 or 1.5" 3 ring binder - writing pens - #2 pencils - colored pencils - 3 different colored highlighters - TI30XS2 calculator
August 17, 2020 7th Grade Orientation More information to come!
Notes from School Nurse Hello, and welcome back to school! I look forward to another great school year ahead! What a crazy six months it has been! I look forward to seeing all of your faces in the near future! Please note the following items as we begin the school year: 1. Please remember to have your child(ren) complete necessary immunizations prior to the first day of school. Please visit:https://www.health.state.mn.us/people/immunize/basics/readykidswhento.pdf to verify your child(ren) has all of the necessary immunizations per state law. You will receive a letter in the mail if your child is not up-to-date with his/her immunizations. Children entering Kindergarten must also complete Early Childhood Screening prior to beginning school in the Fall. If your child received any vaccines this summer, please send a copy to the appropriate school office. Please email me with any questions.
HyVee Pharmacy will be offering flu vaccines to anyone living in our community at the Elementary School on Monday, October 12, 2020 from 3-8 P.M.
2. I encourage you to speak to your child(ren) about ways to stay healthy this school year. This is now more IMPORTANT THAN EVER! Please review the following recommendations: *Encourage frequent hand washing, especially before meals and after using the restroom. *Use hand sanitizer. It may be helpful to have a small hand sanitizer in your child’s backpack or desk to use as needed. *Cover your mouth or nose when sneezing or coughing. *Keep your hands away from your face. *Do not share water bottles, food, or other personal items. *Please keep your child home from school if they are exhibiting signs of illness. It is important for your child to eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, exercise frequently, and get plenty of sleep. I encourage all families to speak to their family doctor about getting a flu vaccine annually as well. 3. If your child will be taking a prescription medication during the school day, the appropriate authorization form is located on the main page of the school’s website under the “Nurse” tab (https://www.scschools.net/page/5778). This form requires a parent and physician signature BEFORE the medication can be given in the school setting. This form can be used for ALL grade levels. This form must also be completed if your child will have an inhaler or Epi Pen at school as well. 4. There is also a parent authorization form on the school website for use of non-prescription medications (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, etc). Parents must sign and return these to the health office before a student can be provided these medications during the school day. A copy of our medication policy for students can be accessed on our school website: https://www.scschools.net/sites/scschools.net/files/files/Private_User/azittel/Policy%20516%20Student%20Medication%20FINAL%202019.pdf 4. There is also a parent authorization form on the school website for use of non-prescription medications (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, etc). Parents must sign and return these to the health office before a student can be provided these medications during the school day. A copy of our medication policy for students can be accessed on our school website under Policy 516 at https://www.scschools.net/page/3518. Check back soon for information regarding our new District Wellness Website, and please reach out to me if you are a parent interested in being involved in our Health & Wellness efforts at St. Charles Schools this coming school year. As always, I look forward to keeping our students and staff healthy and safe this school year. Justine Reinhardt, RN Licensed School Nurse/Public Health Nurse District Wellness Coordinator jreinhardt@schs.k12.mn.us
Construction Updates Construction Projects in Full Swing at Elementary Building A gentle reminder that the playground at Elementary School is closed as well as the basketball courts. Thank you!
Kitchen Corner - Kris Young This will be a source for updates an information from the kitchens at St.Charles Public Schools.
2020-2021
August Issue 2020
Welcome to a new feature in our Saints Sentinel
Lunch Prices - ELEMENTARY
Before we know it the 2020-2021 school year will be starting. It's hard to believe how quickly summer goes by.
Breakfast Lunch Monthly (estimate) Annually (estimate) Extra milk
July brought the need to plan for the new school year. There may be some unknowns about the way school will be conducted, but regardless, we will continue to provide nutritious and delicious meals to our students. Included in this publication is the 2020-2021 Application for Educational Benefits. It can be filled out and returned to: Kris Young, 600 East 6th St., St. Charles, MN 55972.
$1.75 $2.75 $55.00 $481.25 $0.50
MILK BREAK PRICES FOR THE SCHOOL YEAR
I will be attending the elementary open house on August 19 from 3:30 to 5pm. You can also bring it with you that night. I will be available to accept the applications, payments and answer any questions. We want to strongly encourage families to pay their lunch accounts using RevTrak. It is the school's online payment system that is available on the website under the quick links. It is easy to use and simplifies our record keeping process.
Once per day $85.00 Twice per day $170.00 Please purchase when school begins.
Lunch Prices - HIGH SCHOOL
It was exciting to see the ground breaking ceremony for the elementary addition. It will include a new kitchen as well as more instructional space. We are currently in the design phase of the high school kitchen. It will include many updates, an A la carte area and some much needed expanded seating. I am enjoying being part of the process in providing our students with an updated cafeteria.
Breakfast Lunch Monthly (estimate) Annually (estimate) Extra milk
$1.90 $2.90 $58.00 $507.50 $0.50
I hope you are enjoying your summer. I look forward to seeing our students return to school. I missed the daily interaction with them at the end of last school year. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Adult Breakfast Adult Lunch
$1.90 $3.85
Sincerely,
Please bring lunch/milk money on or before first day of school or pay online with RevTrak.
Kris Young Food Service Director St. Charles Public Schools 507-932-4420 kyoung@schs.k12.mn.us
The first days of school are a very hectic and a busy time for students and staff. We encourage you to make lunch, breakfast, and milk break payments before the first day of school. Pay online with RevTrak by logging in or creating new account at: https://scschools.revtrak.net/foodservice-group/, drop a check in the mail or stop by either office. If your family account is getting low, an email will be sent to the parents/guardians. If the account shows a negative balance for an extended period of time, a phone call will be made or a letter will be mailed to the parents/guardians.
First Day of School
Feel free to contact anyone below with questions you may have. Kris Young, Food Service Director and High School Head Cook 932-4420 Tracie Schaber, Elementary Head Cook 932-4910 Lynda Otterson, High School Lunch Fees 932-4420
Monday, August 24, 2020
St. Charles Foundation for Academic Excellence Outright Giving Staff and Friends of Merchants Bank St. Charles
Memorial Giving Harold Bartsh Bob and Marilyn Christie John Gregoire Irving Smith Ardys Bartel Keith and Gail Keller D. John Nelson Don Behrens Dean and Robyn Fox Scott and Luanne Hoeft Bev Norvet Paul and Laura Reisdorf Dave and Pam Tesch Roger and Barb Traxler SCHS Class of 1974 SCHS Class of 1982 Larry Campbell Merle and Betty Peterson Dennis Duellman John and Sherry Slavin Virginia Heim Estabrook David and Barbara Heim Kenneth Fay Merle and Betty Peterson
Ken Feine Scott and Luanne Hoeft Fran Goodrich Todd and Liz Grimes Scott and Luanne Hoeft Bette Guenther John Gregoire John and Sherry Slavin Roger John John and Sherry Slavin Ron Kroning Scott and Luanne Hoeft Bev Norvet Calvin Langer Scott and Barbara Williamson
Kevin Motske Charles Nicklay John and Sherry Slavin Florence Mueller John Gregoire Elizabeth Mueller Cheryl Nintemann John Nintemann Allen and Barb Rasmussen John and Sherry Slavin John and Lois Smoltz Marjorie Stock SCHS Class of 1974
Marjorie Persons Gary and Kathryn Feine Dean and Robyn Fox Cheryl Nintemann Bev Norvet John and Sherry Slavin SCHS Class of 1983 Richard "Bubber" Schaber Paul and Laura Reisdorf SCHS Class of 1982 Kenneth Zeine Bev Norvet
Donald Nesbit Bev Norvet Jeanne Olmstead Dave and Pam Tesch
LuVerne Majerus Mike and Jyll Buringa Daniel and Barbara Dalenberg Barbara Ellsworth Craig and Renae Hartman Tom and Olivia Heim Terry and Jane Knothe Jack and Susan LaValla Susan Lyngaas Boots Majerus Bob and Bev Nisbit Bev Norvet Daniel and Jean Nowlan Linda Schaber Mike and Carol Schultz John and Lois Smoltz Wayne and Judy Young
INVOLVE. CHALLENGE. ACHIEVE.
Second Semester Honor Roll 2019-20 Straight 'A' Butson, Kaylee Daood, Ilah Gransee, Conner Manley, Gavin Mathison, Colton Matzke, Tessa Mosdal, Isaac Paul, Mira Schram, Elizabeth Waller, Lauren Bahr, Gabriel Barclay, Jonas Dailey, Jack DeCook, Kaylie Gust, Makadyn Huang, Justin Hulshizer, Teia Kieffer, Ava Kozak, Tatem Leucuta, Maddison Mosdal, Shelby Omdahl, Mya Schiebel, Payton Sullivan, Lily Toft, Avery Anderson, Eva Buringa, Grace Chuchna, Kaitlynn Delger, Lauryn Ferden, Levi Hoffman, Katherine Hoover, Reliegh Koeppel, Brenna Loga, Jackson Matzke, Tyson McDonough, Aidan Mueller, Todd O'Bryan, David Paul, Adam Sanders, Carson Small, Madison Villafan, Mari Waller, Lane Ward, Riley Warmkagathje, Gavin Christopherson, Emily Disbrow, Abigail Drath, Olivia Fritcher, Nora Koeppel, Brady Mathison, Carter O'Hara, Andrew Soppa, Olivia Sybounheuang, Anna Dailey, Kaitlyn Daood, Anna Davidson, William Kieffer, Brea Lindsey, Katelyn Malony, Drew McCready, Abigail Paul, Ashley Root, Lindsey Schaefer, Trenton Toft, Alana Warmkagathje, Ethan Anderson, Trevor Apse, Mitchell Bunke, Hannah Buringa, Emilee Fritcher, Izak Geib, Bailey Gransee, Tyler Hansen, Allison Hanson, Elizabeth Howen, Sonia Kramer, Jenny Kreidermacher, Cody Kulas, Sarah Lewis, Samuel McDonough, Christina Mueller, Carter O'Hara, Annika Reps, Kyler Stambaugh, Alicyn Wendt, Logan Zickrick, Autumn
'A' 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
Boyum, Brooks Cole, Riley Decker, Brock Decker, Luke Hoffman, Abigail Holm, Laura Nelson, Cooper Oberg, Christopher Perez, Samantha Rasmussen, Kaitlyn Apse, Mason Burlingame, Alexander Chaney, Logan Ellsworth, Addrianna Heim, Hadli Kurth, Ryan Maloney, Owen Matthews, Thavyah McConnell Elder, Scarlett Rojas, Jasmine Schloegel, Hunter Slavin, Mya Spitzer, Zackary Storm, Matthew Thomann, Kallie Ward, Hanna Welch, Iyan Wendt, Shelby Wobschall, Caleb Brouwer, Taylynn Geib, Serena Gruber, Harrison Meyer, Jacob O'Bryan, Conner Rojas, Gracy Small, Tytan Hamiel, Daniel Hanson, Luke Kivi, Isaac Kramer, Daniel Littlefield, Sophia Reps, Alayna Smith, Kasey Storm, Nathaniel Berends, Cole Berends, Luke Cage, Emma Fuller, Vance Fynboh, Hannah Hursh, Emily Ihrke, Braeden Karlstad, Isabel Krenik, Jade Nelson, Carter Pierre, Mia Putzier, Kyle Shea, Lybie Soulier, Hailey Spaulding, Brooke Zillmer, Dustin Brown-Lisowski, Lydia Disbrow, Eva Howard, Thomas Jayari, Jennelyn Johnson, Austin Kivi, Samuel Kobs, Makenna Linderbaum, Sam Patten, Jordan Slavin, Zachery Snyder, Madison
'B' 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
Arndt, Jack Bagniewski, Kaylyn Davidson, Charles Dorman, Marah Fenske, Madelynn Hahn, Ethan Fox, Matthew Frinack, Travis Gaynor, Logan Hahn, Ethan Hahn, Natalee Hanson, Isaac Hursh, Sarah Jutz, Matthew Ortega, Crystal Rinard, Marcus Rojas, Bernardo Shea, Leah Tuseth, Sophia Voss, Erik Wangen, Benjamin Winfield, Cale Wobschall, Brenna Wolter, Adeline Carlson, Morgan Chuchna, Emma Lauritzen, Otto Losinski, Breanna Rinard, Macy Smith, Nicholas Todd, Jackson Valtierra Hernandez, Miriam Wendt, Sawyer Woetzel, Morgan Arriaga, Mariana Backes, Sara Chelmowski, Emma Davidson, Henry Decker, Emma Dorman, Claire Fenske, Carson Fuller, Mya Gray, Isabelle Heien, Alexander Hernandez, Cristina Howard, Michael Hulshizer, Levi Karlen, Adilyn Kauten, Emily Kobs, Chace Mart, Chloe Moore, Destany Paul, Andrew Phillips, Hannah Reps, Cody Roessler, Sawyer Root, Tyler Sanchez, Abril Shea, Larissa Spitzer, Abigail Theede, Maycee Waldee, Tyler Brennan, Jayden Cole, Celia Coleman, James Disbrow, Noah Jayari, Jenneth Krohse, Benjamin Matthews, Dominic Osmundson, Jacob Schultz-Schweitzer, Kaleb Thoreson, Jett Thorland, Boden Welliver, Emma Zickrick, Calvin
'B' Continued 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 7 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 8 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 9 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10
Berg, Dominique Buss, Adyn Ferden, Riley Hanson, David Hernandez, Brandon Krohse, Samuel Mauskemo, Kiana Milene, Sarena Mundt, Leah Ness, Erik Redig-Bridges, Kaedyn Reps, Kylee Rojas, Joanna Sanchez, Diego Schaber, Harper Schaber, Hayden Timm, Evan Vasquez, Jacqueline Vaughn, Kooper Backes, Emma Burkholder, Hayley Burt, Rebecca Davidson, Isaiah Diercks, Korrigan Jackley, Hunter Kessler, Brandon Kroening, Noah Lopez Rodriguez, Kiara Rieke, Karly Rojas, Elena Shaw, Nina Spitzer, Lily Stangler, Daysia Todd, Anna Walters, Chase Wangen, Chase
INVOLVE. CHALLENGE. ACHIEVE. Behind the Wheel One on One Driving instruction looked a little different this summer but nonetheless was available for eager students waiting to learn how to drive. Upon completion and passing the virtual Drivers Training course students were able to take behind the wheel training throughout the summer. In order to maintain distancing students learned one-on-one with an instructor while wearing masks. Multiple instructors made it possible for students to take the course. Sanitizing the vehicle between each session ensured safety for not only the driver but also the instructor. Photo credit: Jill Veerkamp/The St. Charles Press
11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12
St. Charles Elementary School SCES Parents and Guardians,
August Issue 2020
After such an abnormal Spring and Summer, it feels great to be writing about students returning to our halls! Construction has begun, and the elementary is beginning to look very different. While the construction happens, our halls are still busy with our yearly cleaning and rearranging. Our custodial staff deserves a great thank you for the work they have done over the summer to get things ready here for our kids. Somehow they have accomplished doing their normal work alongside the extra work brought to us with the referendum. We will have a few new faces this Fall as well, including an additional kindergarten teacher for a very large kindergarten class. These positions have not been hired yet, but we will be working on filling the following positions over the summer: Early Childhood Special Education 5th Kindergarten Section ECFE Child Ed Instructor Our handbook is updated and ready. Please take some time to go through this with your child – specifically so that they know both your expectations and ours. Your kids want to impress you and to know that you are proud of them; so spend some time discussing what you expect of them at school as well as the rules they’ll have to abide by here. Show them that their behavior is important to you. Discuss respect and empathy, and what it means to be a good person. This conversation can have a far greater effect on your child’s behavior than any principal ever will! Like every Fall, as our excitement begins to grow, I’m sure the same happens with your kids at home. As we move toward the beginning of the year, please remember that it is always a good idea to begin your “school” routine a bit before school begins to smooth the transition: set bedtimes, reduce technology and screen time, eat healthy, and read together. It is easy to slip out of these routines over the summer, but as we get closer to the school year, please help us by setting your children up for success in school. It takes a village to raise kids well, and if we all continue to work together, our kids will do great things! We are very excited to have you back! Ryan Ihrke
Club Invention in St. Charles: Castles, Catapults, and Coats of Arms Club Invention is a program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame. June, 29, 30 and July 1, 2020 the club was held at St. Charles High School with the theme of: Castles, Catapults, and Coats of Arms. The 18 participants in grades 2-6 let their imaginations run wild, while exploring connections between science, technology, engineering and innovation. Mrs. Hoffman met with 2 groups of 9 students, each of the days for 2.5 hours. Students traveled back in time and became a part of the Middle Ages. They examined medieval scientific principles such as gravity and Archimedes’ principle of buoyancy. Participants built medieval structures like castles and catapults while playing the roles of knights, craftspeople and serfs! This was the first year Club Invention was held in St. Charles. Mrs. Hoffman is hoping to hold another session next summer with a new theme.
St. Charles Elementary School Open House / Meet the Teacher Wednesday, August 19, 2020 3:30 – 5:00 PM grades 1 – 6 and preschool Students, families, and visitors are welcome to drop in at a convenient time. We hope to see you there! On this date you may also make payments for your lunch, milk break, and drop off school supplies. There is a special kindergarten orientation on August 24 and 25. Kindergarten families will receive a letter with this information.
Annual Smoke Free T-shirts for the Class of 2032 were donated by the St. Charles Moose Lodge - Thank you!
of 2032
Elementary School Supply Lists 2020-21 August Issue 2020
PRESCHOOL All Preschool students please bring: (1) box of Kleenex (1) bottle of Elmer's glue (1) Poly-folder (2) Elmer’s jumbo glue sticks (1) Canister of disinfectant wipes if available is stores Face Cloth or Covering
REMINDER FOR ALL CLASSES: - Do not send trapper keepers - Please label items with child’s name - Some items will be part of the community classroom supplies - Reuse supplies from last year if possible - No backpacks with wheels – they do not fit in school lockers - Each student must bring a face cover daily
Boys: (1) set of Crayola Markers (8-10 count) (1) box of 2 gallon or 1 box of gallon-sized Ziplock bags (1) Fiskars children’s scissors
KINDERGARTEN
Girls: (1) set of Expo Dry Erase Markers (3-5 count) (1) box of Quart sized Zip-lock bags (1) box of 12-24 ct. Crayola Crayons
(2) boxes of 8 or 10 count Crayola brand crayons with the basic colors – red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, black, brown – regular size – no fat or large crayons please (2) boxes of 24 count Crayola brand crayons (2) boxes of Crayola classic colors wide markers (8 or 10 count) (2) boxes of Crayola classic colors fine line/ thin markers (8 or 10 count) (2) 4 oz. bottle of white school glue (10) glue sticks – LARGE (2) large boxes of Kleenex or facial tissue (1) box zipper lock clear freezer storage bags (A-L:quart size, M-Z: gallon size) (1) canister disinfectant wipes, if available in stores $7.25 for kindergarten t-shirt (cash or check made payable to Northcastle Specialties) Face Cloth or Covering
Full-Day Students: Rest Mat Snacks: Students with last names A-M please bring a snack to share with the class Students with last names N-Z will be asked to send in a snack later in the year
Your child will also need: *a large backpack *a resting mat (not a yoga mat since they don’t fit in our lockers!) *a paint shirt (an adult t-shirt works great) * a recent photo of the student * phy-ed shoes. The ideal shoes for a kindergarten student are shoes he/she can get into and out of independently (Velcro is fine!)
GRADE ONE 24 pencils – sharpened if possible plastic pencil box (2) erasers (1) scissors (Fiskar type) (4) 24-count boxes of crayons (4) boxes of washable markers (1) 4 oz. bottle of white glue (6) glue sticks (large if possible) (2-4) whiteboard markers (4) wide-lined spiral 1 subject PLAIN notebooks (4) PLAIN folders (1) flash card addition (1 box) ziploc bags - last name A – L: gallon size, last name M - Z: quart size (2) boxes of Kleenex (1) canister of disinfecting wipes, if available in stores (1) Headphones - OVER-THE-EAR ones work the best Face Cloth or Covering
GRADE TWO (48) pencils – sharpened if possible (Ticonderoga are a good brand) (1) Pencil pouch (not a box-they don’t fit in our desks) (1) large eraser 1 set each markers, crayons, colored pencils, scissors (1) 4 oz. bottle of white glue (6) glue sticks (large if possible) (2) wide-lined spiral 1-subject notebooks (4) sturdy folders (4 or more) whiteboard markers (dry erase) (4) highlighters (4 different colors) (1 box) Ziploc bags - last name A – L: box quart size, last name L - Z: box gallon size (2) boxes of tissues (1) canister of disinfecting wipes, if available in stores (1) sturdy, but inexpensive, headphones with a straight jack Face Cloth or Covering
Physical Education: ALL GRADES MUST HAVE PHY-ED SHOES Please wear to school or keep a pair in your locker
WELCOME BACK STUDENTS! WE ARE EXCITED TO SEE YOU! GRADE THREE (48) Pencils – sharpened if possible (replenish often) Ticonderoga are a good brand (1) Pencil Box ( aprox. 5” x 8”) (1) box markers (1) scissors (1 box) colored pencils or crayons (1) 4 oz. bottle of white glue (6 or more) glue sticks (4) pocket folders (1) wide-lined notebook (4) Highlighters (8) white board markers (dry erase) (1) 1 inch 3-ring binder (1) box of Kleenex (1) canister of disinfecting wipes, if available in stores (1) Headphones with a straight jack (1)Wireless mouse (optional) Boys: (1) box gallon sized ziplock bag Girls: (1) box sandwich sized ziplock bag Face Cloth or Covering
GRADE FOUR (48) pencils - sharpened if possible (replenish often), pencil cap erasers (1) set each crayons, colored pencils, markers, pencil pouch, and a scissors (2) glue sticks (large if possible), (1) 4 oz. bottle of glue (2) yellow highlighters (4) dry erase markers (black, red, green, or blue) (6) folders (6) spiral-bound wide-lined notebooks (1) pack index cards (approx 100 count) (2) boxes Kleenex (2) canisters of disinfecting wipes, if available in stores (1) box ziplock bags - last name A-L: (1) box quart size/last name M-Z: (1) box gallon size Face Cloth or Covering MUSIC- 1 three-ring binder, 1 inch, this will be used through grade 6 and beyond, pencils
OPEN HOUSE / MEET the TEACHER Elementary School gr. 1-6 and preschool August 19, 2020 from 3:30 – 5:00 PM
SPECIAL KINDERGARTEN ORIENTATION GRADE FIVE (24) pencils, sharpened if possible (1) sturdy zippered pencil pouch (1) large eraser (1) scissors (1 pack) markers (1 pack) colored pencils (4) large glue sticks (1 pack) red pens (1) black sharpie marker (3) wide-lined spiral notebooks (1) RED wide-ruled spiral notebook (1) GREEN wide-ruled spiral notebook (1) RED PLASTIC pocket folder (1) GREEN PLASTIC pocket folder (1 pack) loose leaf paper- wide rule (4) highlighters – multiple colors (1) basic calculator (3-6) white board markers -dry erase (1) box ziplock bags (any size) (1) box Kleenex or tissue (1) canister disinfectant wipes, if available in stores (1) locker shelf (foldable) Face Cloth or Covering MUSIC Grade 5 and 6 - (1) one-inch 3-ring binder, loose leaf paper, pencils, & your recorder instrument from last year or can be purchased from our music teacher, Mrs. Jystad
August 24 & 25 Families will receive a letter with this information. GRADE SIX (24) pencils, sharpened if possible (1) sturdy zippered pencil pouch (1) eraser (1 pack) red pens (1 pack) colored pencils, sharpened (1 pack) regular markers (set of 8 or 10) (1) scissors (3) large glue sticks (2) black sharpie markers (2) 100 pack of notecards (4) highlighters - multi colored (2) wide-lined spiral notebooks (1) GREEN PLASTIC 2-pocket folder (4) dry erase markers (1) basic calculator (1) ruler (1) locker shelf (foldable) (1) box of Kleenex (1) container of disinfecting wipes, if available in stores body deodorant (to have available in locker) Face Cloth or Covering MUSIC Grade 5 and 6 - (1) one-inch 3-ring binder, loose leaf paper, pencils, & your recorder instrument from last year or can be purchased from our music teacher, Mrs. Jystad
Elementary School News August Issue 2020 Ready Set School (RSS) is a Winona County program that assists families with the necessary school supplies and/or clothing/shoes for your children for the upcoming school year. Ready Set School Voucher Update for Winona County families: Vouchers were mailed out mid-July so those of you that registered should receive your voucher soon. You have from July 15-Sept 15 to use these vouchers for school supplies at either Walmart or Rogan's Shoes in Winona. If you did not receive your vouchers and believe that you should have, please contact Mandi Olson, RSS Director at (507) 429-4213. If you were unable to register your family by the May 31st deadline, there will be limited backpacks with supplies available at the Hometown Resource Center in St. Charles on August 18, 2020 (scheduled tentative date) for pick up. If you have any further questions regarding this program, please contact: Theresa Nunemacher tnunemacher@schs.k12.mn.us 507-932-4420 Ext 1159
PTO Next PTO meeting: August 17th, 6:30 pm Elementary Library
PTO Needs YOU! The PTO is in danger of disappearing in the near future without dedicated members to join us! Teachers/Staff, Parents, and community members are welcome & encouraged to join us if you can! Please continue to shop Smile.Amazon.com and Scan your shopping receipts in the BoxTops app to earn $$ for the PTO year around! Annual Fall Apparel sale will be available at the beginning of the school year! Watch for flyers or follow us on facebook.com/scpto.
Community ECFE - New Classes FALL 2020!! ECFE offers classes the following dates and times: Tuesday 5:30-7:00 PM Thursday 5:30-7:00 PM Friday 10:00-11:30 AM
Online GED Program Have you always wanted to finish your degree? We have FREE online classes! Contact Community Ed at: communityed@schs.k12.mn.us or call 507.932.4910
Gretchen Hoffman ghoffman@schs.k12.mn.us 507-932-4910 Ext 2107
News Like and Follow us on Facebook at St. Charles PTO or email saintcharlespto@gmail.com
PLEASE JOIN FOR THESE UPCOMING MEETING DATES THIS COMING YEAR! 8/17/20, 9/21/20, 10/19/20, 11/16/20, 12/21/20, 1/18/21, 2/15/21, 3/15/21, 4/19/21. Remote attendance available, please email saintcharlespto@gmail.com for info.
Education Mission and Vision Statement Involve and challenge learners of all ages in the St. Charles community for life-long learning. St. Charles Community Education provides lifelong learning opportunities for all ages in our community! Please browse our offerings to see the wide range of options available on our website at: https://www.scschools.net/page/2653. Then, we invite you to join us for a Community Education class. Develop a talent, learn a new skill or try something different —you'll be glad you did!
Kids get to play through Community Ed With the issues from COVID-19, many summer activities were either canceled or changed significantly. Fortunately, we were able to gradually return to play with many activities. The school district, specifically Community Education, stepped up to allow our students to safely return to play safely. The coaching staff and others set up clinics, practices, and other day camps with MDH guidelines in place. This allowed our students to return to some normalcy this summer. Please check out Community Education for your options on our school website: https://www.scschools.net/page/2653 or contact them directly at communityed@schs.k12.mn.us or phone: 507-932-4910.
Baseball Clinic with Mr. Kobs
Basketball Clinic with Mr. Ohl - kids learning with left hand
St. Charles Public Schools strongly encourages families to fill out the Application of Educational Benefits Your children may qualify for free or reduced-price school meals. To apply, complete the enclosed Application for Educational Benefits following the instructions. At public schools, your application also helps the school qualify for education funds and discounts. State funds help to pay for reduced-price school meals, so all students who are approved for either free or reduced-price school meals will receive school meals at no charge. State funds also help to pay for breakfasts for kindergarten students, so all participating kindergarten students receive breakfasts at no charge. We encourage and highly recommend families to apply for free and reduce lunch for the 2020-21 School Year.
Student Meal Application 2020-21
Elementary cost: Breakfast $1.75; Lunch $2.75 High School cost: Breakfast $1.90; Lunch $2.90
Student Meal Application 2020-21
St. Charles Public Schools Annual Notifications August Issue 2020
BULLYING SECTION 504 Bullying will not be tolerated at SCHS. The school district will investigate all complaints, formal or informal and will take appropriate disciplinary action against any student or staff who engages in bullying. Bullying is defined as “Conduct that is either repeated and in the context of a perceived or actual imbalance of power, or that materially and substantially interferes with the student's education. However, intimidating, threatening, abusive, or harming conduct includes not only physical harm or threats of physical harm, but also violations of a student's reasonable expectation of privacy, defamation of a student, intentionally inflicting emotional distress, or conduct directed at a student on the basis of certain actual or perceived characteristics. All claims of bullying will be investigated by the principal. Consequences for bullying may include, but are not limited to: a warning, detention, Saturday School, suspension, remediation, termination or discharge. Please refer to the complete copy of the District’s bullying policy 514 for further clarifications. A copy can be found in the office and on the student bulletin board.
PARENT'S RIGHT TO KNOW Parents can request information about teachers Under the No Child Left Behind law, parents have the right to request information regarding the professional qualifications of their student’s classroom teachers. Parents who would like to receive this information should write to Gretchen Hoffman, Attn: ESEA Teacher Qualifications, St. Charles Elementary School, 925 Church Ave., St. Charles, MN 55972. Parents can designate which of the following information they want: 1. Whether the teacher has met state qualification and licensing criteria for the grade levels and subject areas in which the teacher provides instruction; 2. Whether the teacher is teaching under emergency or other provisional status through which state qualification or licensing criteria have been waived; 3. The baccalaureate degree major of the teacher and any other graduate certification or degree held by the teacher, and the field of discipline of the certification or degree; and 4. Whether the child is provided services by paraprofessionals and, if so, their qualifications. Los padres pueden solicitar información sobre los maestros. Bajo la ley Ningún Niño se Queda Atrás, los padres tienen derecho a solicitar información sobre las credenciales profesionales de los maestros del salón de su niño. Los padres que deseen recibir esta información deben escribir al Gretchen Hoffman, Attn: ESEA Teacher Qualifications, St. Charles Elementary School, 925 Church Ave., St. Charles, MN 55972. Los padres pueden señalar cuáles de los siguientes datos desean recibir: 1. Saber si el maestro cumple con las credenciales y licencias del estado para los grados y asignaturas que enseña; 2. Si es que el maestro está enseñando con una licencia de emergencia o provisional, por la que el estado lo ha eximido de los requerimientos de credenciales o criterios para obtener la licencia. 3. El título universitario del maestro y cualquier otro tipo de certificación académica y el área de disciplina de la certificación o grado académico, y 4. Credenciales de los paraprofesionales, si es que el niño recibe sus servicios.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT The St. Charles Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of sex/gender, sexual orientation, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, disability, receipt of public assistance, or marital status and age in its programs and activities.
Section 504 is an Act which prohibits discrimination against persons with a disability in any program receiving Federal financial assistance. The Act defines a person with a disability as anyone who: 1. has a mental or physical impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activity (major life activities include activities such as learning, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks and working); 2. has a record of such impairment; or 3. is regarded as having such an impairment. In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the St. Charles School District recognizes a responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students. No discrimination against any person with a disability will knowingly be permitted in any of the program and practices in the school system. The school district has specific responsibilities under the Act, which include the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the child is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services. If the parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the campus 504 committee, he/she has a right to discuss the issue with the school’s 504 administrator, Theresa Nunemacher. If differences cannot be resolved, the parent has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) also specifies rights related to educational records. This Act gives the parent or guardian the right to: 1) Inspect and review his/her child’s educational records; 2) make copies of these records; 3) receive a list of all individuals having access to those records; 4) ask for an explanation of any item in the records; 5) ask for an amendment to any report on the grounds that it is inaccurate, misleading, or violates the child’s rights; and 6) request a hearing on the issue if the school refuses to make the amendment.
SECTION 504 COORDINATOR
TITLE IX COORDINATOR
Ms. Theresa Nunemacher School Social Worker 600 E 6th St St. Charles, MN 55972 507.932.4420 x1159 tnunemacher@schs.k12.mn.us
Mr. Jeff Apse, Superintendent 600 E 6th St St. Charles, MN 55972 507.932.4420 x1152 japse@schs.k12.mn.us
ALTERNATE 504 COORDINATOR
ALTERNATE TITLE IX COORDINATOR
Mr. Ryan Ihrke, ES Principal 925 Church Ave St Charles, MN 55972 Phone: (507) 932-4910 rihrke@schs.k12.mn.us
Mr. Scott McCready, AD 600 E 6th St St. Charles, MN 55972 507.932.4420 x1115 smccready@schs.k12.mn.us
ST. CHARLES VOCATIONAL OFFERINGS St. Charles Public Schools offers a variety of vocational opportunities through the Industrial Technology and Agriculture Education. The purpose of this notice is to inform students, parents, employees and the general public that these opportunities are offered regardless of sex/gender, sexual orientation, race, color, creed, national origin, religion, sex, disability, receipt of public assistance, or marital status and age. Admission in the specific courses is determined by grade level and in some cases, completion of prerequisite courses. The district has designated the following individuals to coordinate compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972.
Agriculture Courses Ag 8 - an exploration of the agriculture world around us Ag Ed I - an investigation of past and current agricultural topics Ag Ed II - this class serves as a continuation of Ag Ed I Exploring the Outdoors - this course will focus on understanding Minnesota's natural resources Large Animal Science - a course on beef, dairy, goats, horses, poultry, sheep, and swine Small Animal Science - a study of the basic care and management of small animals Ag Systems and Technology - learning about energy, small gas engines, welding, and technology Horticulture - learning about the science and process of growing plants
OPEN HOUSE / MEET the TEACHER Elementary School gr. 1-6 & preschool
Wednesday, August 19, 2020 3:30 – 5:00 PM Drop-in at a convenient time! Students entering kindergarten will be invited to their own special orientation on August 24 or 25, 2020
Industrial Technology Courses Architectural Drafting- an introduction to the field of planning, designing, and drawing of buildings Building Trades - a course dealing with building desgin and technical skills related to the construction trade Communications Technology - an introduction to electronic & graphic forms of communication Drafting & Design for Industry - an introductory course in mechanical drafting Electronics - a course that focuses on the understanding of electronics and electrical applications Industrial Technology I - an introductory course explaining the field of technology Making Money in Industry (MMI) - an introduction to the world of product production Power/Transportation - an introduction to the fields of power, energy, and transportation Wood Construction - an introductory course in wood working
INVOLVE. CHALLENGE. ACHIEVE.
St. Charles Public Schools Notices 2020-21 August Issue 2020
INDOOR AIR QUALITY NOTICE St. Charles Public Schools is proud to be taking a leadership role in providing a safe, comfortable and productive environment for our students and staff so that we achieve our core mission—educating students. Our school will follow the EPA guidance to improve our indoor air quality by preventing as many IAQ problems as possible, and by quickly responding to any IAQ problems that may arise. Good air quality requires an ongoing commitment by everyone in our school, because each of us daily makes decisions and performs activities that affect the quality of the air we breathe. School staff, students and parents can obtain checklists or self-help information so they can properly evaluate their child’s home or other out of school situation by contacting the school. Staff and parents can also obtain information about school facility construction, maintenance and housekeeping practices, chemicals used, mold and HVAC related information, chemical producing academic subjects, and pesticide and herbicide applications to determine the extent to which school activities contribute to a child’s symptoms by contacting the school. The St. Charles Public Schools Indoor Air Quality contact person is Tim Reps, Head Maintenance Engineer (507) 932-4420.. If there are any questions regarding the school’s IAQ Program, please feel free to call the school at 932-4420.
BUS TRANSPORTATION In Person Learning (Full Student Capacity) St. Charles Public Schools in consultation with Haley Transportation and Mueller Transportation has systematically reviewed and evaluated our school transportation capacity. Even though we have taken steps to help reduce the number of students who will be transported on a daily basis through the district’s in person learning plan, we have determined that even with those steps, it is not feasible for our school district to ensure 6 feet of social distancing on our school buses when schools are open at full student capacity. St. Charles Public Schools will continue to provide transportation for students who live outside of a 2-mile radius of their school per the following guidelines: 1. By sending their children to the bus stop each day, parents/guardians attest they have screened their children for symptoms of COVID-19, their children exhibited no symptoms, and were not ill when they left the house to go to the bus stop. 2. The in town bus service, traditionally referred to as the “Chicken Bus” will not be provided. If the COVID-19 pandemic situation continues to improve, the School District will consider bringing this service back. 3. Students who live within two miles of their school are required to walk, bike, or find other means of transportation to school. 4. Parents who have safety concerns regarding school crossing zones within a two mile radius of the schools are encouraged to contact the District Office at 507-932-4420. Concerns will be addressed at the school district’s discretion. 5. Regular route riders only on buses, no guest riders. 6. Students are encouraged to wear masks while waiting for the bus at the bus stop. 7. Students are required to wear masks on the bus until further notice, and must be wearing a mask prior to boarding the bus. 8. All drivers will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms before embarking on their daily routes. All drivers will be wearing masks until further notice. 9. Parents/guardians attest that they fully understand the School District cannot control whether or not their children may be exposed to COVID-19 while waiting at the bus stop, riding a School Bus or by attending St. Charles Schools. 10. The District and its transportation providers will clean and disinfect transportation vehicles regularly between routes as required by the Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Education. Parents/guardians have the option to drive their children to and from school, have a sibling or other family member drive their children to and from school, or form car pools with others they are comfortable with. Activities Transportation St. Charles Public Schools is committed to continuing to provide transportation for all in person student activities (after school, sports, field trips, etc.) during the COVID-19 pandemic as long as we are able to continue to provide students with in person activities. The following guidelines will be adhered to for all activity bus trips. 1. All passengers are required to wear masks to and from the location of the activity until further notice. 2. All drivers will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms before embarking on their activity trip assignment. All drivers must wear masks until further notice. 3. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to drive their children to and from activities when practical and should communicate their intent with their children’s coach/advisor in writing. 4. Parents/Guardians are encouraged to sign their children out with a coach/advisor after an activity and transport their children home themselves versus having their children ride home on the school bus. 5. Parents/Guardians may choose to have their children car pool with other families to and from activities when practical and should communicate their intent and permission for their children to do so with their children’s coach/advisor in writing. 6. The District and its transportation providers will clean and disinfect transportation vehicles regularly between activity trips as required by the Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Education.
Hybrid Learning (Student Daily Attendance Reduced by 75%) If the School District is directed by the Minnesota Department of Health, Minnesota Department of Education, or other State regulatory authority to implement our Hybrid Learning model, daily attendance in our schools will be reduced by 75%. This will significantly reduce the number of students riding our buses on a daily basis for the duration that we are required to implement our Hybrid Learning model. While reducing student attendance by 75% may result insignificantly fewer students needing to take the bus on a daily basis, it is still not entirely feasible for the district to ensure 6 feet of social distancing on our school buses. St. Charles Public Schools will continue to provide transportation for students who live outside of a 2-mile radius of their school per the same guidelines as our In Person Learning model on the days students are scheduled to be in school.
GENERAL PESTICIDES NOTICE A Minnesota state law went into effect in year 2000 that requires schools to inform parents and guardians if they apply certain pesticides on school property. Specifically, this law requires schools that apply these pesticides to maintain an estimated schedule of pesticide applications and to make the schedule available to parents and guardians for review or copying at each school office. State law also requires that you be told that the long-term health effects on children from the application of such pesticides or the class of chemicals to which they belong may not be fully under-stood. If you would like to be notified prior to pesticide applications made on days other than those specified in the estimated schedule, please contact Tim Reps, Head Maintenance Engineer (507) 932-4420.
ASBESTOS NOTICE As a result of recent federal legislation (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act - AHERA), each primary and secondary school in the nation is required to complete a stringent new inspection for asbestos and to develop a plan of management for all asbestos-containing building materials. St. Charles Public Schools has a goal to be in full compliance with this law and is following the spirit, as well as the letter, of the law. As a matter of policy, St. Charles Public Schools shall continue to maintain a safe and healthful environment for our community's youth and employees. In keeping with this legislation, all buildings (including portables and support buildings) owned or leased by the school district were inspected by EPA accredited inspectors and samples were analyzed by an independent laboratory. Based on the inspection, the school prepared and the state approved a comprehensive management plan for handling the asbestos located within its buildings safely and responsibly. Furthermore, St. Charles Public Schools has completed its 3-Year Re-inspection required by AHERA. Our district buildings, where asbestos-containing materials were found, are under repair, removal and Operations and Maintenance. This past year, St. Charles Public Schools conducted the following with respect to its asbestos containing building materials: * implemented our Operations and Maintenance Program*. Federal law requires a periodic walk-through (called "surveillance") every six months of each area containing asbestos. In addition, the law requires all buildings to be re-inspected every three years after a management plan went into effect. IEA will accomplish this under contract. Short-term workers (outside contractors - i.e., telephone repair workers, electricians and exterminators) must be provided information regarding the location of asbestos in which they may come in contact. All short-term workers shall contact the lead maintenance person before commencing work to be given this information. St. Charles Public Schools has a list of the location(s), type(s) of asbestos-containing materials found in that school building and a description and timetable for their proper management. A copy of the Asbestos Management Plan is available for review in the school office. Copies are available at 25 cents per page. Questions related to the plan should be directed to the St. Charles Public Schools at (507) 932-4420.
RECORDS RIGHTS OUTLINED What are the rights of parents and students when it comes to viewing educational records? The Family Education and Privacy Act requires that school districts annually publish a notice to parents and eligible students (students 18 and over) outlining the rights regarding a student's educational records. All individual records on current students are filed in the school the student attends. Requests by parents or eligible students to review or inspect school records should be submitted to the appropriate principal: Dr. Bernard for secondary students and Mr. Ihrke for those who attend elementary school. Records on students who no longer attend District 858 are filed at the High School. Requests for review of these records should be made to Mrs. Olson. Any parent or eligible student may file a request to challenge inclusions in his/her educational records. This can be done by submitting a letter requesting a change in the record. The school district intends to limit disclosure to a third party information contained in a student's educational records, except as follows: · By the prior written consent of the student's parents or the eligible student. · As directory information. Directory information is defined by law as name, address, phone number, date and place of birth, sex, major sports, weight and height, dates of attendance, grade levels completed, awards received, and previous educational institutions attended. Any parent or eligible student who does not wish this information released should notify in writing the School District office. The following information must be included: name of student, home address, school presently attended by student, parent's legal relationship to student, specific categories of directory information that will not be made public without the parent's or student's prior written consent.
INVOLVE. CHALLENGE. ACHIEVE. LEAD-IN-WATER ANNUAL NOTICE Minnesota Statute 121A.335 requires public school buildings serving kindergarten through grade 12 to test for lead in water every 5 years. This statute also requires school districts to make the results of the testing available to the public for review and to notify parents of the availability of the information.
Distance Learning
St. Charles Public School District has a lead in water management plan and testing program that complies with Minnesota Statute 121A.335, as well as recommendations from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) Lead Contamination Control Act (LCCA) of 1988 and the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).
If the District is required to implement its Distance Learning model all school district in person learning, co-curricular and extra-curricular activities will be cancelled until further notice and no transportation will be provided to and from our schools.
For more information on the district’s lead in water testing program, please contact Jeff Apse, Superintendent at 507-932-4420.
If the District is required to implement its Hybrid Learning model all school district co-curricular and extra-curricular activities will be cancelled until further notice.
St. Charles Public School