School Talk

School Talk FALL 2015

Connected Kids Why student connectedness is a key to success.

ALSO INSIDE: SCHOOL BOARD ELECTION • ANNUAL REPORT • OUTDOOR CLASSROOM

Connected Kids Why after-school time is a key to academic success.

p.m., and the high school I dayt’s 2:05 has just ended. But for many students, the best part of the day is just beginning.

Seniors Grant Delaune and Etisha Punia are racing off to cross country practice at Mounds View High School, but not before a few stops along the way. Grant checks in with his student council advisor for a quick meeting.

Etisha chats about the day with her friends near her locker, before meeting with her favorite math teacher for some extra help.

Both consider this time a golden opportunity for connecting.

“That time period between school getting out and activities starting — I really like it,” says Etisha. “We have plenty of time to get things done.”

That’s by design. Both Irondale High School and Mounds View delay the start of activities up to an hour to allow students time to connect with teachers.

And once activities begin, student connections soar.

On the cover: Mounds View seniors Julia Anderson, Michael DeGroot and Jericho Von Brugger enjoy the Homecoming football game.

Photo credit: Stephen Ward, David Bank Studio

“ If I wasn’t as involved after school, I wouldn’t know as many of my teachers or other students as well.”

– Etisha Punia, Mounds View senior “If I wasn’t as involved after school, I wouldn’t know as many of my teachers or other students as well — especially students from other grade levels,”says Etisha.

Grant agrees.

“When I was an underclassman, I remember feeling super cool whenever a senior would say hi to me in the hall,” he says. “Now that I’m the senior, I always try to do the same to freshmen.

It’s cool listening to their music and hearing about their day. Activities are a great way to get to know students you wouldn’t normally know.”

Editors Rachel Gutierrez Colin Sokolowski

Designer Susan Abbott

Photographers Rachel Gutierrez Greg Helgeson Lifetouch Stephen Ward

Superintendent Dan Hoverman

2015 School Board Bob Helgeson Amy Jones Greg Madsen Marre Jo Sager Jon Tynjala Jonathan Weinhagen Sandra Westerman

School Talk is published by Mounds View Public Schools, Independent School District 621.

Send correspondence to School Talk editor, 350 Highway 96 West, Shoreview, MN 55126, e-mail rachel.gutierrez@moundsviewschools.org or call 651-621-6012.

Para asistencia en traducciones ó ayuda como intérprete, por favor comuníquese con Angel Toro al 651-724-2854. Yog xa tau kev pab thiab hais ua lus Hmoob thov hu rau Mee Yang ntawm 651-724-0396. Haddi aad ubaahantahay faahfaahin dheerad ah ama turjumaad, fadlan kala soo xiriir, taleefanka 651-724-7482.

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Student connectedness They may not realize it, but what Grant and Etisha are building in those moments after school is just as critical to their development as their classroom experiences. It’s called student connectedness. And studies show it’s an essential component to the overall health and well-being of students. “ Students who feel connected to school...report high levels of emotional well-being.”

Journal of School Health “ Students who are connected are less likely to have emotional problems, suffer from eating disorders or experience suicidal thoughts.”

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

“ Increased student connection to school promotes motivation, classroom engagement and improved school attendance.”

Educational Leadership magazine “There’s been a consistent theme throughout our work, and it’s student connectedness,” says School Board member Greg Madsen. “Connectedness affects the emotional health of students.

It promotes academic achievement. It even supports co-curricular success.”

As evidence of its support, the School Board recently committed to an annual $800,000 investment to support high school co-curriculars, paying for transportation, uniforms, officials and some essential equipment.

School’s out, but students remain

Strategies for success So what else has the District done to promote student connectedness?

• Every school has a specific priority goal related to connectedness.

• Every school works with every student to provide meaningful goal setting and mentoring.

• Elementary schools offer a variety of afterschool activities and family fun nights.

• Student interests have prompted new after-school activities added to middle schools.

• Middle schools offer an activity bus at 4:15 p.m.

• High schools run after-school buses at 3:30 and again at 5 p.m.

• Sliding-scale fees, needs-based scholarships and family caps encourage participation in co-curriculars at all school levels.

• The first day of school for sixth- and ninth-graders offers them the entire school building focused on them.

• The ninth-grade respect retreat has become a popular tradition.

• High schools have launched campaigns promoting the responsible use of social media.

Strategies to improve student connectedness may look somewhat different in every school, but staff throughout the District share the same goal: Making frequent, personal and positive contacts with every student.

“We know that kids who feel more connected do better in school and in life beyond our walls,” says Superintendent Dan Hoverman. “If our students feel connected, we’re confident their experience here will be positive and successful.”

Students study in the paddock after school at Mounds View High School. “When school gets out, it’s hardly a ghost town here,” says activities director Bob Madison.

“It feels almost as busy as the school day. And that’s just the way we want it.”

Do students feel connected?

Students at Irondale High School and Mounds View High School recently took a student connectedness survey. Results reveal...

“Besides a teacher, at least one other adult in school welcomes me, cares about me and encourages me to succeed.”

“I feel supported by my teacher.”

84%

90%

“I feel respected by my fellow students.”

“I care about my school.”

85%

85%

“I am involved in at least one club, sport, musical group or school-sponsored activity.”

“I feel good about who I am as a person.”

90%

Compared to high school students across the state:

85%

“Adults in school care about me.”

“I feel good about myself.”

75%

68%

– Minnesota Student Survey, Minnesota Center for Health Statistics, 2013

FALL 2015

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MAKING THE GRADE Mounds View uses a number of assessments to measure student performance and progress. Whether the results come from state-mandated testing, District measurement systems, or national rankings, Mounds View Public Schools continues to hold a place among the highest-performing districts in the state and in the nation.

Top in the nation for ACT Year after year, Mounds View Public Schools students exceed both the national and the state average on ACT exams. For the ninth consecutive year, Mounds View Public Schools students earned an average ACT score (23.5) that surpasses both the Minnesota average (22.7) and the national average (21.0). Thanks to a grant from the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation, Mounds View Public Schools was the first school district in the state to give every high school junior the opportunity to take the ACT on site for free during the school day beginning in 2011. In 2015, 98 percent of the junior class participated in the free on-site administration of the test.

Top 10 school district Mounds View Public Schools ranked among the top 10 districts in the state for the most 2016 National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. In total, eight Mounds View High School students and two Irondale High School students were named semifinalists.

Steven Truong and Angela Vu (pictured with Irondale Principal Eric Nelson).

Emily Ruan, Hassan Lubega, Persis Ke, Brandon Duffy and Alex Jiang (in the front row). William Newhouse, Sam Rush and Daniel Min (with Mounds View Principal Jeff Ridlehoover).

Mounds View High School seniors Brandon Duffy, William Newhouse, Emily Ruan and Persis Ke achieved a score of 36 on the ACT test, the highest score that can be achieved. Only 58 students in Minnesota’s class of 2015 earned a score of 36.

Top 10 School Districts in Minnesota

National Merit Scholarship program

Wayzata

26

Edina

19

Eden Prairie 15 Eagan-RosemountApple Valley 15

Graduating Class of 2015 ACT scores Mounds View Public Schools

23.5

Minnesota average

22.7

National average

21.0

*The District’s composite score also includes students from other District schools such as the Area Learning Center and REACH Academy.

South Washington County

12

Mounds View 10 Minneapolis

10

Rochester

8

Minnetonka

8

St. Paul 7 4

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FALL 2015

District seniors are among about 16,000 semifinalists named as part of the annual academic competition.

The students, who were selected based on scores on a PSAT qualifying test, will compete for more than 7,000 scholarships worth more than $32 million, to be awarded this spring.

The nationwide pool of semifinalists represents less than 1 percent of U.S. high school seniors and includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

District students perform above the state and the nation District students on average perform one to three grade levels above national norms in reading and math as measured by the NWEA Measure of Academic Progress (MAP). MAP tests are aligned with Minnesota state standards and serve as early indicators of how students will perform on MCA tests (used to meet federal requirements of No Child Left Behind). The District also uses MAP tests to measure student academic growth and develop plans for continued improvement.

Results from Minnesota’s Comprehensive Assessment (MCA) tests also show that District students out-perform their peers in the state when it comes to the percent of students proficient in reading, math and science. In 2015, the percent of students proficient on the MCA math and MCA reading exams increased.

5 GOALS OF FOCUS Mounds View Public Schools is committed to high student achievement through a comprehensive approach that integrates the key components of learning. The Legislature passed the World’s Best Workforce Bill in 2013 requiring all Minnesota schools to develop a plan for increasing student performance that includes five goals of focus. Mounds View’s World’s Best Workforce strategic plan for 2015-2016 will continue to focus on meeting the five key components described in the 2014-2015 plan. The District’s Equity Promise provides the framework to make great strides in all these components.

Mounds View Public Schools Educational Equity Promise • Programs and services will be in place at all schools to ensure that race, class and disability will not predict students’ success in Mounds View Public Schools.

• Student academic performance will not fall into patterns identifiable by factors such as race, ethnicity, English language proficiency, socioeconomic status and disability.

• The school that a student attends will not be the predictor of his/her school success.

More information For more information, visit the “Curriculum” web page at www.moundsviewschools.org.

Questions Questions about testing and assessment? Contact Mary Roden, assistant director of assessment and evaluation, at 651-621-6042 or mary.roden@moundsviewschools.org.

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All students meet school readiness goals.

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very student is able to read at or above E grade level by the end of third grade.

Participation in high-quality early learning programs will provide children from all backgrounds with a strong start and a foundation for school success. Early learning programs help prevent achievement gaps before they start, and invests from an early age in children as our most critical resource. An ongoing focus on early childhood programs will include a closer look at expansion opportunities for ages four to kindergarten.

The District is in its second year of providing a comprehensive all-day kindergarten literacy and numeracy program. Students’ Primary Measures of Academic Progress median performance increased for both math (+3 points) and reading (+4 points) in 2014-2015, revealing the impact of all-day kindergarten instruction.

Scientifically-based literacy instruction, assessment and professional development is provided across the District to ensure that all students have a solid foundation of literacy skills in third grade. Students’ performance on the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessment for Reading provides an annual check of third-grade literacy progress. Students who are proficient (meet or exceed the standards) on this exam are indicative of students who are on track with their development of literacy skills.

At all sites, support for the implementation of literacy standards and high quality instruction are provided through the use of a Literacy Coaches and Instructional Strategies Facilitators. Alignment of standards, prioritizing of benchmarks and regular Percent of third-grade students proficient assessments for instructional on the MCA Reading assessment planning is ongoing. Support for all students, including Mounds View State of MN appropriate intervention Spring 2015 65.8 58.7 services, are provided as needed to ensure all students read Spring 2014 69.3 58.2 fluently on grade level by the Spring 2013 63.2 57.4 end of third grade.

FALL 2015

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MAKING THE GRADE

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Close achievement gaps for all students.

Mounds View Public Schools measures students’ progress and analyzes the results — looking closely at the percentage of students exceeding proficiency, meeting proficiency or meeting partial proficiency on standards measured by the Minnesota Comprehensive Assessments. These results are analyzed to identify any achievement gaps and ensure that schools are upholding the District’s Equity Promise.

In alignment with the Achievement and Integration plan to address achievement gaps, schools are first addressing the gaps that exist in the aspirations student have for their future, the opportunities available to them and the expectations every school has for its students. The District and its schools are

working toward a goal of reducing the achievement gap to half of what it is now by spring 2017. To do this, schools are focused on: • Increasing student engagement through culturally and linguistically responsive classrooms and through work with equity coordinators.

• Increasing opportunities for rigorous course work for the academic middle with support for students to succeed.

• Professional Learning Communities focused on the strategies that impact achievement for all students.

District Achievement Gap Trend for Math and Reading 2013 MATH

2014 MATH

2015 MATH

2013 RDG

2014 RDG

2015 RDG

Difference in achievement of students of color compared to white students.

12.7

10.3

10.2

13.3

13.8

13.0

Difference in achievement of students receiving free/reduced lunch prices compared to those not receiving free/reduced lunch.

18.8

18.3

18.1

23.2

23.6

23.7

Difference in achievement of students receiving English Learner Services compared to those not receiving English Learner Services.

32.5

27.3

29.1

44.5

49.5

50.3

Difference of achievement of students receiving Special Education Services compared to those not receiving Special Education Services.

24.8

29.7

36.1

25.3

28.8

38.2

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A ll students graduate from high school.

Mounds View Public Schools measures the percent of students who graduate in exactly four years plus the percent of students who continue according to their Personalized Plan, as an indicator of progress for on-time graduation.

District strategies for increasing graduation rates to 100 percent: • Personalized Post-Secondary plans for all sixth-12th-grade students.

• Well-defined activities that support students’ transitions between sites.

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• Equity Coordinator, equity staff and school deans monitor at-risk students to provide academic interventions as needed.

• Provide multiple and focused ways to support students with credit recovery.

* It is important to note that in 2015 for many of these comparison subgroups, the number of students proficient increased for both groups. This resulted in the gap remaining much the same, even though there was an increase in the number of students reaching proficient levels.

Class of 2012

Class of 2013

Class of 2014

ALL

96.1

96.4

96.9

White Students

96.8

97.2

98.3

Students of Color

93.9

90.4

97.2

Students receiving free or reduced-price lunch

93.0

92.2

93.9

Students receiving English Language Services

97.4

96.4

96.3

Students receiving Special Education Services

90.7

93.8

93.5

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All students attain college and career readiness.

As part of the Equity Promise, schools work to ensure that programs and services are in place to provide all students with supports and opportunities that will prepare them for post-secondary success. Predictors of success are used to guide personal learning plans and focus on individual goals for student achievement.

Administration of the Explore, PLAN and ACT tests helps guide four-year goal-setting plans and aids in the development of post-secondary plans for students in grades six to 12.

Foundational course offerings in grades seven to 10 and an ongoing focus on developing the Habits of Mind help ensure students are college and career ready.

The ACT helps to assess college and career readiness. All Mounds View Public Schools juniors are offered the ACT at no charge during the school day.

In addition to the ACT, the District measures the participation and success of students in rigorous course offering including: concurrent enrollment at Anoka Ramsey Community College (ARCC) Advanced Placement (AP) and College in the Schools (CIS) courses.

Students enrolled in college-level courses 2014-2015

Graduating Class ACT Results Class of 2011

Class of 2012

Class of 2013

Class of 2014

Class of 2015

Number of students taking exam

612

861

792

819

824

% of class

69%

97%

97%

97%

98%

Average District Score

25.3

23.4

23.5

23.5

23.5

Average State Score

22.9

22.3

23.0

22.9

22.7

Average Nation Score

21.1

21.1

20.9

21.1

21.0

A Closer Look: Number of students with ACT Composite Score: 25-36

348

315

308

386

366

21-24

178

220

207

186

203

17-20

68

146

164

139

138

lower than 17

18

180

112

108

117

The Class of 2012 was the first class to participate in the free ACT Junior Administration.

2014-15 Student Concurrent Enrollment in College Courses Mounds View High School 1600

1400

1400

1200

1200

• 66% of students at Mounds View High School

200

* Note that ninth-grade students have fewer options to participate, as most courses begin at grade 10.

800

800 600

• 79% of the students enrolled in these courses earned the college credit.

1000

1000

• 56% of students at Irondale High School

• 61% of students in grades 9*-12

Irondale High School

600 400

400

0

200 ARCC

AP

CIS

Enrollments

813

1503

101

Students

669

772

73

0

ARCC

AP

CIS

Enrollments

987

1280

59

Students

622

759

42

The enrollment number represents duplicated counts of students, as students may enroll in multiple ARCC, AP and CIS courses.

FALL 2015

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SCHOOL BOARD 2015 School Board Enrollment continues to rise As of early September, 10,894 students have enrolled in Mounds View Public Schools. This year’s enrollment is an increase of 383 students from last October 1 reporting. Despite the increase, buildings are operating with efficiency near capacity levels, and average class sizes remain the same as the last several years thanks to voterapproved levy funding. All core class sizes meet School Board approved ranges. Depending on the grade level, students receive small group instruction every day in math and reading with groups sizes of five to 15 students.

Front row: Amy Jones, Jon Tynjala, Marre Jo Sager. Back row: Jonathan Weinhagen, Greg Madsen, Sandra Westerman, Bob Helgeson.

Moody’s upgrades bond rating

Investing in students

Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded Mounds View School District’s bond rating to Aa2 from Aa3. The Aa2 rating reflects the District’s large tax base, a recent trend of growing enrollment, healthy financial position and modest debt burdens.

More dollars go to classroom instruction and support than to any other area. This year, the District is investing 76 cents of every general fund dollar in classroom instruction and support.

Proposed property taxes Ramsey County will mail 2016 proposed property tax statements in mid-November. Mounds View Public Schools will discuss the budget and final property tax levy for 2016 at a focused forum scheduled before its regularly scheduled 7 p.m. Board meeting on December 8, 2015, at Snail Lake Education Center, 350 Highway 96 W, Shoreview, when it will certify final property taxes. For more information, please visit the Budgets and Finance page at www.moundsviewschools.org. The proposed taxes for 2016 total $44,125,435, which is an increase of $939,563 or 2% more than final taxes payable 2015. The main area of increase is referendum funding which is directly influenced by increased student enrollment.

Student instruction and support: 76¢

Sites and buildings: 7¢ Transportation: 7¢ District & school administration: 4¢ District support services: 3¢ Fixed costs: 3¢ Source: General Fund, Mounds View Public Schools, 2015-2016

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School Talk

FALL 2015

EDUCATION FOUNDATION

The Mounds View Schools Education Foundation (MVSEF) works in partnership with Mounds View Public Schools leadership to identify programs that require funding to advance District priorities and innovations that can reach students throughout the entire District. Dave and Marsha Stimpson have helped to make many Foundation initiatives a reality.

Spotlight on the Stimpsons Ask Dave or Marsha Stimpson about their family’s history with Mounds View Public Schools and they will tell you that it started with the experiences Dave had as a student.

Dave is part of the 1966 Mounds View High School graduating class. The Stimpsons are also proud parents of two Mounds View alumni — their son Jeremy (1996) and daughter Kaitlin (2002).

Marsha, although not an alumna, has her own unique connection to Mounds View Public Schools. She began working in the District as a paraprofessional in 1990 and concluded her career as a health specialist at Sunnyside Elementary School this past February. Marsha takes great pride in her work within the schools and also values the education their children received from the Mounds View school system.

In 1989, Dave was appointed to the Board of the 621 Foundation, now known as the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation. He quickly took on a leadership role and championed what affectionately became known as the 621 Family Fun Run. This event, one of the first fun runs in the Mounds View Public Schools community, was an annual event that ran for a decade and raised thousands of dollars for the District.

Dave Stimpson presenting a scholarship to Brooke Olson at the Local Awards Ceremony at Mounds View High School.

his experience with the District, Dave said, “I realized how difficult it was to keep the budget cuts out of the classroom. I felt our District’s primary goal was to make sure that our students received the best classroom education possible and that every educational touch point — be it the arts, languages, sciences or math — mattered. To this day, I believe that is what makes the Mounds View School District a great district.”

The Foundation appreciates Dave and Marsha’s past service as well as their on-going financial investment as supporters of the Foundation’s annual giving program and as attendees of MVSEF’s fundraising events.

Their commitment can serve as an example to other alumni, parents and community members who value the importance of giving back and supporting the exceptional educational experience offered by Mounds View Public Schools.

Visit www.moundsviewschoolsef.org for more information and to consider making an investment in classroom enhancements for Mounds View Public Schools students through the Annual Giving Campaign.

Dave’s service was not just limited to the Foundation. He served on the School Board from 1999 to 2004 during a difficult economic climate. When asked to reflect on

FALL 2015

School Talk

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BACK TO SCHOOL

New faces In September, 800 kindergarten students began their first year as part of the Mounds View Public Schools team. Assistant Superintendent Chris Lennox also joined the District.

Ryan Lang (pictured below) cured students of the first-day jitters at the kindergarten centers at Pike Lake by sharing with them that it was also his first day. Lang, who has been a teacher with Mounds View Public Schools since 2012, joined Pike Lake in July as the kindergarten center program administrator. Valentine Hills Elementary School welcomed Lindsey Boumgarden as principal in September while Nathan Flansburg joined Sunnyside Elementary as principal. Rob Reetz became principal at Chippewa Middle School.

Chris Lennox was busy getting to know students, staff and schools in September. Maddie Zukowski’s kindergarten class got a surprise visit when he joined their class for story time.

Get to know new principals by watching introduction videos at www.moundsviewschools.org.

District high schools welcomed 931 freshmen this fall.

Student mentors at both schools helped ninth-graders make a smooth transition to high school with a freshmenonly day filled with various orientation activities including team-building activities and school tours.

Mounds View Mentors helped lead a Respect Retreat that challenged students to respect themselves and others, and to contribute to the school’s positive learning environment.

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At Irondale, Allison Willner and Catherine Niedermann were among the 140 juniors and seniors who serve as Peer Mentors. They helped ninthgraders navigate the school during the first week and helped to make the transition to high school a positive experience.

Stay connected in 2015-2016 Video message to families

Website improvements

In September, students and their families were welcomed to the 2015-2016 school year with a one-minute video message from Superintendent Dan Hoverman. For some insights into the school year, watch the video at www.moundsviewschools.org.

District and school websites will soon be mobile responsive and easier to navigate. Look for continued improvements to the District and school websites in 2015-2016.

Social media You can also follow the District and its schools on ,

and

.

All schools throughout the District have a playlist on the District’s YouTube Channel. Links are available in the footer at www.moundsviewschools.org.

Find school-specific social media links and feeds by visiting school websites.

Updates on the go with the new District app Staying in touch with the District and its schools has never been easier.

Download and customize the free mobile app to add specific calendar events to your device, follow high school sports, subscribe to notifications, check lunch menus, contact schools and more.

School and District contacts

Attendance lines

Calendars Lunch menus

Teacher websites SchoolView Tip text

tips

Coming soon!

Transportation tracker

FALL 2015

School Talk

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AROUND THE DISTRICT

Outdoor classroom

In partnership with Ramsey County, the Mounds View Schools Education Foundation, Cummins Foundation and McGough Construction, Mounds View Public Schools is helping to develop an outdoor classroom on land that was once occupied by the Twin Cities Army Ammunition Plant (TCAAP). Development of the project, on the property now

Irondale and Mounds View High School students used the learning lab and outdoor classroom this fall to measure various atmospheric conditions like temperature and humidity.

Orchestra students perform at Target Field Fifth- and sixth-graders who participated in the summer orchestra program joined Irondale and Mounds View High School orchestra students for a Twins game performance in September. Baseball fans who attended the September 15 game were greeted at the plaza at Target Field with a live performance.

School Talk

Translation assistance To learn more about District programs and events featured in this issue of School Talk in Spanish, Hmong or Somali, please call Angel Toro (Spanish) at 651-724-0396, Mee Yang (Hmong) at 651-724-0396 or Ali Ali (Somali) at 651-724-7482.

Yog xa paub ntau tshaj nov txog peb lub District cov program thiab kev sib sau ua ke ntawm peb cov tsev kawm ntawv thiab niam txiv nrog rau me nyuam kawm ntawv uas muaj nyob rau hauv tsab ntawv School Talk no, thov hu rau Mee Yang ntawm 651-724-0396.

Para aprender mas sobre los programas del Distrito Escolar y de los eventos en esta edicion de School Talk, llame a Angel Toro al 651-724-0396.

Irondale students Rana Lamprecht and Emily Davis were among the student performers.

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being called Rice Creek Commons, began last school year when teachers shared ideas about how the open space could serve as the backdrop for learning in the areas of science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM).

This summer, volunteers from Cummins and the Education Foundation joined Mounds View Public Schools teachers, deans and principals to prepare the property for learning. McGough Construction donated a trailer to be used as an on-site learning lab, and Cummins stocked the trailer with tools and equipment to inspire hands-on lessons in environmental conservation, math, science and more.

According to Shane Wood (pictured above), science coach for the District, access to Rice Creek Commons offers teachers an opportunity to incorporate real-world field work into their curriculum. “Students will have an opportunity to get outside the classroom for relevant real-world experiences with connections to STEAM. Because of the obvious ties to math and science, the outdoor classroom will first be used to reinforce learning in those areas. As we expand the program, other curricular areas may include marketing, social studies, government and more.”

Haddii aad dooneysid faahfaahin dheeraad ah oo ku saabsan barnaamijyada lugu soo qoro School Talk, ee ka baxa Iskuulada Moundsview, fadlan la soo xiriis Ali Ali: 651-724-7482.

FALL 2015

School Board election On November 3, voters will elect four residents to serve four-year terms on the School Board. The following residents have filed affidavits of candidacy.

John Hakes, Shoreview Bob Helgeson, North Oaks Amy Jones, Shoreview Jonathan Weinhagen, Shoreview Sandra Westerman, Shoreview The School Board is made up of seven citizens elected at large by voters in the District every two years to serve fouryear overlapping terms. At the end of a four-year term, members may run for reelection to successive terms.

For more information on polling locations, absentee ballot applications and more, visit www.moundsviewschools.org.

Pinewood students motivated by PAWSS As an extension of the PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) program at Pinewood Elementary School, a new program was launched this year known as PAWSS (Positive Attitude with Students and Staff ). Focused on community-building, relationship-building and Courtney Brocker’s class participated in the first motivating students to find PAWSS rally of the year this fall. Students pictured are their passions and skills, Logan Dahm, Alexis Pfuhl, Kaley Walker, Ava Reiter, Sarahi Gonzalez Alvarez, Jory Khan, Daven Taylor, Aaron the program encourages Saralampi, Owen Van Ert, Genet Backman, Bayah Dube, students to serve as an Fisher Killins, Albert Records, Eliza Frey, Madeline example of success and to Madetzke and Madeline Lozowy. motivate others to do the same. Activities planned for the school year include a focus on staying “above the line” of expectations, using fix-it plans for reconciliation and participation in a PAWSS Camp of school-wide expectations.

Community garden Pinewood students, parents, neighbors, volunteers and faith groups worked together throughout the spring, summer and early fall to create and care for the Pinewood Community Garden. Produce from the garden goes to community members in need via the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf. District elementary and middle schools welcomed the outdoor addition of organic garden beds last school year thanks to a State Health Incentives Program grant. The Districtwide organic garden project aims to provide an outdoor forum for curricular connections and community building. All produce from the gardens will support the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf which serves the Mounds View Public Schools community.

Edgewood sixth-grader Marian Davies, Pinewood second-graders Sarena Vang and Maria Morikawa, and Huchie Vang helped tend to the garden at a recent Family Library Night at Pinewood.

If you have recently moved into the District and have preschool students who may one day enroll in Mounds View Public Schools, it’s important that you contact the Early Childhood staff to have your family information entered into the District’s data system.

Please contact susan.stoner@moundsviewschools.org.

Early Childhood Screening Early Childhood Screening is required for entrance into kindergarten and is offered throughout the year at no charge. It is best to have your child screened between ages 3.5 and 4. Screening identifies possible learning or health concerns so that your child can get the needed help before starting school. Call 651-621-7420 to make your child’s early childhood screening appointment today.

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AROUND THE DISTRICT Good Neighbor Project Thanks to donations from District families and staff, area business and faith partners, community members and volunteers, the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf distributed school supplies to a record number of students serving 925 children in grades K-12 during its annual Good Neighbor Back to School Project. Students received everything from pencils to backpacks.

Having trouble making ends meet?

The Ralph Reeder Food Shelf is a Community Education Program of Mounds View Public Schools and is available to any low-income individual or family living within the school district.

Monthly food assistance includes a minimum of 25 pounds of food per family member including non-perishable foods, hygiene items, cleaning supplies, frozen meats, fresh milk and produce. Food assistance and other services including county application help and referrals to other resources and services are available at the Pike Lake Education Center in New Brighton, Monday through Friday by appointment.

Call 651-621-7451 to make an appointment.

Need help with holiday toys and gifts for your children?

Operation Joy registration is open during daytime food shelf appointments between November 2 and December 10 by calling 651-621-7451. Walk-in toy shop registration for children is also available on November 25, December 2 and December 9 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. at the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf at Pike Lake Education Center (2101 14th St NW, New Brighton). Residents must bring identification for parent and child along with proof of residence in the form of a current piece of mail.

Looking for ways to help?

Luyen Nguyen, an Irondale graduate who is currently completing her doctorate in biochemistry at Purdue University, delivered school supplies to Bel Air Elementary School. She started school at Bel Air in fifth-grade when she moved to New Brighton from Vietnam. She returned to Bel Air this fall to thank District staff for the support she received during her years at Bel Air, Highview and Irondale.

Her generous donations will be appreciated by Bel Air students in need throughout the school year.

Donations of new unwrapped gifts or toys, gift cards or monetary donations are needed now through December 21. Donations can be dropped off at the Ralph Reeder Food Shelf at Pike Lake Education Center. Online donations can be made by visiting www.ralphreederfoodshelf.org.

To learn about volunteer opportunities, contact Sue Peake at sue.peake@moundsviewschools.org or call 651-621-7447.

District-wide annual asbestos notification Mounds View Public Schools has continued to respond to asbestos in buildings in a cautious and proactive manner. Building administration will continue with its ongoing asbestos operations and maintenance program, including periodic surveillance inspections, which are conducted on a semi-annual basis. Also required as part of AHERA (Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act-EPA) are re-inspections, which are conducted by accredited inspectors every three years since the implementation of the District’s Management Plan. The building administration’s ongoing efforts related to the management and control of asbestos containing materials are focused on providing a safe environment for our building occupants and employees. If you have any questions, would like to review the management plan, or are interested in recent response actions completed at the buildings, please contact Chris Paquette at 651-621-6090.

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Pesticides and Herbicides: Parents’ right to know A Minnesota state law went into effect in the year 2000 that requires schools to inform parents and guardians if they apply certain pesticides on the school property. Specifically, this law requires schools that apply these pesticides to maintain an estimated schedule of pesticide applications and to make the schedule available to parents and guardians for review or copying at each school office. The long-term effects on children from application of such pesticides, or the class of chemicals to which they belong, may not be fully understood.

If you would like to be notified prior to pesticide applications made on days other than those specified in the estimated schedule (excluding emergency applications), please contact Chris Paquette at 651-621-6090.

FOCUS

on your future

Chalkboard Capers Chalkboard Capers is a variety show presented annually by the teachers of the Mounds View Education Association. The goal is to raise money for student scholarships given to graduating seniors from Irondale High School, Mounds View High School, REACH Academy, Area Learning Center and Adult Basic Education. Each scholarship is for $621. The number of scholarships awarded depends on the financial success of the show. Learn more about the history here. The 2016 show is slated for April 6-9.

Mounds View Public Schools It’s personal

Every secondary student has a personal learning plan developed by staff who know their students personally.

It’s challenging

The top three reasons why families choose Mounds View Public Schools are “Quality Teachers,” “Academic Excellence” and “Academic Opportunities” that can’t be found elsewhere.

It’s safe

94 percent of families say schools are safe and respectful.

It’s popular

Year after year, 80 percent of resident students choose to attend Mounds View Public Schools.

Donations Your donations makes our show a success. If you wish to make a financial contribution or children’s prize donation to Chalkboard Capers, please send your check to or drop your donation off at: Mounds View Education Association Attn: Chalkboard Capers 900 Long Lake Road, Suite 110 New Brighton, MN 55112

Kindergarten Round-Up: Island Lake

at Snail Lake

February 11

5:30 – 7 p.m.

Turtle Lake

at Snail Lake

February 4

5:30 – 7 p.m.

Sunnyside

at Pike Lake

February 9

4:30 – 5:15 p.m.

Valentine Hills

at Pike Lake

February 10

5:30 – 6:15 p.m.

Bel Air

at Pike Lake

February 10

4:30 – 5:15 p.m.

Pinewood

at Pike Lake

February 9

5:30 – 6:15 p.m.

Receipt of donation can be obtained at the Mounds View Education Association office.

If you would like to arrange for someone to pick up your prize or donation, please email chalkboardcapers@moundsviewschools.org.

2016 Enrollment Information Nights: Chippewa Middle School

January 12

6 – 8 p.m.

Edgewood Middle School

January 14

7 – 8:30 p.m.

Highview Middle School

January 14

7 – 8:30 p.m.

Irondale High School January 7

5 – 6:30 p.m. or 7 – 8:30 p.m.

Mounds View High School January 7 A – L between 5:30 and 7 p.m.

M – Z between 7 and 8:30 p.m.

2015 performers included kindergarten center staff from Snail Lake Education Center (front floor:) Lisa Murray, Shari Friesen, Adria Crego; (standing:) Kara Cassidy, Penny Nelson and Jenny Heyer.

FALL 2015

School Talk

15

AROUND THE DISTRICT

What to expect if winter weather calls for school closings Cancelling school is a tremendously difficult and complicated decision for any school district to make, and it’s a decision that impacts thousands of families in very different ways.

Be assured that these decisions are always made with the safety of students in mind.

One-source forecasting Mounds View has joined a group of neighboring school districts in deciding it will rely solely on forecasts provided by the National Weather Service – Twin Cities, which is the official government authority on weather forecasting and weather warnings for the state of Minnesota.

Threshold for closings Schools could be cancelled if...

• Our neighborhoods experience sustained wind chills of 40 to 45 degrees below zero during the hours between morning bus pick ups and afternoon bus drop offs.

• Buses won’t start or run dependably.

• Local road conditions in our neighborhoods are dangerous or impassable.

Because metro districts (even neighboring districts) can experience differing weather and road conditions, do not be surprised if there is inconsistency among school district closures throughout the metro this year.

2-hour late starts Although 2-hour late starts aren’t convenient for families, this option could be used to avoid school cancellations which could ultimately allow the District to avoid a greater inconvenience of make-up days added back to the calendar.

If the District calls a 2-hour late start, here’s how it will work: • Buses will pick up students 2 hours later than their typical bus stop schedule.

• Schools will start 2 hours later than their typical schedule.

• Class periods will be shortened throughout the day.

• Schools will dismiss at their regular dismissal times.

• Buses will drop off students at their regular drop-off times.

Notifications Families should always assume schools are open and in session, unless they hear or see differently. Websites will only indicate when schools are closed — not when they remain open. If schools will be using a 2-hour late start or cancelling altogether, the District will notify parents no later than approximately 5:30 a.m. on the day of the late start or cancellation, using the following tools: • Text messages • Voicemail messages • E-mail messages

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School Talk

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• Facebook and Twitter • 651-621-SNOW hotline recordings • District and school website postings The District will also notify local media outlets, but cannot guarantee if or how the media will report the information we provide them.

Make-up days?

This year’s school calendar allows for two cancellation days without makeup days required. However, now that Mounds View has the ability to use 2-hour late starts, it’s not as likely that calendar adjustments will be necessary.

WITH HONORS Excellence in behavioral prevention effort Four District elementary schools are among 36 Minnesota schools identified as state-wide leaders for creating positive learning environments for students. This summer, the Minnesota Department of Education recognized Bel Air Elementary School, Sunnyside Elementary School, Turtle Lake Elementary School and Valentine Hills Elementary School as Sustaining Exemplar Schools. Using a program called Positive Behavioral Intervention and Supports (PBIS), the four schools were identified as leaders in establishing a comprehensive set of practices to support positive behavior, improve school climate and increase student achievement.

District schools among best for Title I Valentine Hills Elementary School has been named among the top 15 percent of all Title I schools in the state, earning the Minnesota Department of Education’s (MDE) designation of “Reward” school for the second consecutive year.

“Reward” status is part of the state’s new accountability system that uses a Multiple Measurements Rating (MMR) to evaluate schools’ performance in proficiency, academic growth, achievement gap reduction and meeting targets for graduation rate projections.

“Reward” schools represent the highest-performing Title I schools on the four domains in the MMR. MDE plans to share practices from these schools with other schools in an effort to replicate best practices across the state.

In addition, the MDE also named Bel Air Elementary School and Sunnyside Elementary School as “Celebration Eligible.” This means that student performance on MMR measures placed these schools in the 60th to 85th percentile of top performing schools. MDE selects approximately 10 percent of Title I schools to receive the Celebration school recognition annually.

A Title I school is a school that receives supplemental Federal funding based on the percentage of students qualifying for the free or reduced price lunch program. Funding is used to assist in meeting students’ educational goals.

National Scholastic Press award finalist Mounds View High School’s student newspaper, The Viewer, was named a finalist for the National Scholastic Press Association’s Pacemaker Award. Finalists were chosen based on coverage and content, quality of writing and reporting, leadership, design, photography and graphics.

Master Teacher Turtle Lake Elementary School orchestra teacher, Sandy Collins, was awarded the Minnesota chapter of the American String Teachers Association (MNSOTA) Master Teacher School Orchestra Award in October. She was honored for making a significant contribution to string music in the state of Minnesota. MNSOTA chooses one teacher annually to represent the state as a Master Teacher.

Teacher of Excellence BestPrep honored Irondale High School Teacher Angie Zappa with a Teacher of Excellence Award in May. The award honored Zappa for her dedication to educating students about business, career and financial literacy, and for providing students with experiential education opportunities.

Plan your stay at Laurentian Environmental Center Planning a family reunion or group event? Consider Laurentian Environmental Center (LEC) in Britt, Minn.

The Center can accommodate small and large groups year-round with 160 beds, five large classroom buildings, a lodge and a dining facility that seats 175. LEC offers access to hundreds of acres of wilderness with trout streams and diverse wildlife habitat. The environmental center’s property includes access to a 100-acre pristine

lake and hiking/ski trails that connect with the Big Aspen hiking and ski trails. LEC maintains a 12-station Challenge Course, a 32-foot outdoor climbing wall, a dogsled yard and trails, an archery range, canoes and rowboats, a sauna, an outdoor campfire theater and a large playing field. The on-site dining facility serves healthy, home-cooked meals from menus developed by a dietician. Call 1-888-749-1288 or visit www.laurentiancenter.org for more information.

FALL 2015

School Talk

17

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS UPDATE

Homecoming connections For Irondale and Mounds View, homecoming is about more than keeping alumni connected to their During homecoming week, high school athletes embrace the opportunity to share their school pride

IRONDALE High school students visited Sunnyside Elementary School for a homecoming celebration. The marching band, dance line and football team got students excited about being part of the Irondale Knight family.

Irondale High School inducted the following alumni into the school’s Hall of Fame during a Homecoming Hall of Fame ceremony in September: Chioma Omeoga (class of 2005) track and field; Nicholas Colwell (class of 2008) football, basketball and baseball; Elijah Ojika (class of 2009) football and track and field; and (not pictured) Johanna Spring (class of 2007) diving, gymnastics and track and field.

The Irondale tennis team celebrated its first-round playoff victory against Totino Grace with principal Eric Nelson, activities director Ron Broberg and head coach Mike Walseth.

Music of the Knight

Irondale High school athletes returned to their alma mater this summer to share their thoughts on “what makes Irondale exceptional?”

To hear from Irondale graduates who are now at Minnesota colleges and universities across the country, watch the alumni video at www.moundsviewschools.org/irondale.

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School Talk

FALL 2015

The 24th Annual Fall Music of the Knight Marching Band competition was held at Irondale High School on September 26.

The competition included 14 competing bands with Irondale performing in exhibition. The event hosted more than 5,000 spectators and participants.

reach all ages alma mater. It is an opportunity to connect with future Knights and Mustangs. with elementary school students.

MOUNDS VIEW Football captains Jeff Lemay and Carter Rholl (pictured, right) visited with Turtle Lake Elementary School students during lunch on homecoming day. Analee Blake, senior stable squad and track captain, and the Mustang mascot, Melvin, and were also at the elementary school to invite students and their families to the homecoming football game. Island Lake students enjoyed a game-day pep fest which included music, a visit from team captains and a dance team performance.

TOP

10

Who’s been ranked in the Top 10 in the state this year?

Island Lake students Henry Braun, Vivi Stasny, Ayana D'Souza and Hailey Smyth greet Melvin, the Mustang mascot.

The volleyball team sponsored a “Dig Pink” fundraiser during the October 6 game. Action items and t-shirt sales raised money to support the fight against breast cancer.

• Football • Boys’ soccer • Girls’ soccer • Girls’ swimming • Boys’ cross country • Girls’ tennis

At press time...

The girls’ swimming and diving team qualified for the State True Team championship, and girls’ soccer won the conference championship and finished the regular season undefeated.

FALL 2015

School Talk

19

Music

Mounds View PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Independent School District 621 350 Highway 96 West Shoreview, MN 55126-1951

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

TWIN CITIES MN PERMIT NO 4112

at

Mounds View Music at Mounds View is a professional concert series that brings high-caliber, nationally recognized artists into our community for public performances at Mounds View High School.

Join us for our exciting second season!

Sunday, January 17, 2016 2 p.m.

Saturday, February 20, 2016 7 p.m.

Sunday, April 17, 2016 2 p.m.

OKEE DOKEE BROTHERS

THE SINGERS

LORING STRING QUARTET

Grammy Award and three time Parent’s Choice Award winners, the Okee Dokee Brothers record and perform family music with a goal to inspire children and their parents to get outside and get creative.

The Singers, a professional choir of 40 members, exists to serve as artists, educators, and ambassadors of the choral art. Recognized nationally for their innovative programming, commitment to new music, and peerless artistic quality, The Singers made their debut at the renowned Ravinia Festival in June 2013.

With players from the US and Ireland, the Loring String Quartet is an international ensemble of the highest quality, serving the musical needs of the greater Twin Cities area.

Season pass and single event tickets are available at the door or online at www.moundsviewschools.org/musicatmoundsview. All performances are held at Mounds View High School, 1900 Lake Valentine Road, Arden Hills.