Fall 2018, Volume 2 EACHING MN ™ T MINNESOTA’S K–12 EDUCATION CONNECTIONTODAY Homecoming Pants: Skilled at Making a A Lakeville Original Difference in Life

“We were in the heart of the stone-washed, New Prague Area Schools acid-washed age,” Zweber said. “You’d never When Nicole Saatzer want to wear blue blue jeans, so what we did is, was 12 years old, her we brought them back to my buddy’s house. We younger brother was diag- bleached them out to see if we could acid wash nosed with autism. She had them ourselves.” no idea how it would impact When that didn’t work, Zweber said, they her life . . . or the lives of tried another approach. countless other students in “It still didn’t even make them faded New Prague Area Schools. enough for the times, and so the next thing we Saatzer, now a special thought of was, well, why don’t we go to the education teacher at Falcon store, buy a bunch of paint, and we can paint the Ridge, draws from her first- overalls up. So that’s what we did!” hand experience to help As the years progressed, Zweber said, students and families navi- everyone began making overalls of their own. gate the journey of special A tradition was born, and when the District education and makes a huge expanded with the opening of Lakeville South difference by teaching life skills to the stu- students benefit from their interactions and High School in 2005, the tradition grew, too. dents who need her help most. friendships with students with special needs, “Eventually it became such an intricate “My experience with my brother was and vice versa,” said Saatzer. “I believe that and detailed project that it went from every one of the things that led me to choose a NPAS does an amazing job of accepting and Friday down to homecoming [only],” Zweber career in special ed,” said Saatzer. “It also including all, and students see it modeled Lakeville Area Schools said, “and since then, it’s continued to get helps me understand the impact on families daily by school staff. Because students see Visit almost any high school in Minnesota bigger and better every single year. The amount and what they are going through.” it firsthand, they are so much more apt to this time of year, and there’s a good chance of work that goes into it is just crazy.” After graduating from NPAS in 2000, demonstrate that same mindset that every- they’re talking about homecoming. It’s either Fun Memories Saatzer went on to get her degree in special one is unique and we all have some amazing coming up, going on or fresh in the memory. education from St. Cloud State University qualities to bring to our school. I see so much Like hundreds of other school districts across “They’re way out there. You decorate them with a license in Developmental Cognitive kindness and acceptance daily.” the state, Lakeville Area Schools celebrated its with fabric paint and sparkles, lots of sparkles.” Disabilities. She has worked in New Prague Fellow special education teacher, Kellie homecomings this fall with all the regular pomp Today, you can even find “Homecoming ever since, getting her Masters in Autism Frey, knows how valuable Saatzer’s passion — and a unique tradition that sets the district Pants” boards on Pinterest, filled with creative Spectrum Disorders in 2013. and enthusiasm for teaching is. “Nicole apart: homecoming pants. ideas and inspiration. Michaela Messier (’18) is She works with students that have devel- has a unique relationship with her students. Lakeville North High School Activities a Lakeville South High School graduate and has opmental disabilities supporting their social, She teaches so much more than reading Director Mike Zweber (’92) said the homecom- fond memories of making her own homecom- academic and communication needs to help and math. She teaches her students how to ing pants tradition began one ordinary week in ing pants. them function more independently. Saatzer be kind and independent, how to advocate 1991. Zweber, a senior at the then only Lakev- “People start in the summer to make them works with them on their individual needs for themselves, and equips them with real- ille High School, said he and three of his friends for October. It’s a pretty big deal,” Messier said. and because of her help they are able to spend world life skills,” said Frey. “She cares for on the football team had originally intended to “They’re way out there. You decorate them some time in mainstream classrooms. each child as an individual and goes above buy regular overalls to wear with their jerseys with fabric paint and sparkles, lots of sparkles. “I feel that the life skills program at and beyond her job description to help the on game days, but the only style to be found was Falcon Ridge has such a positive impact for students reach their fullest potential. Nicole a pair of embarrassingly bright blue overalls. Continued on Page 4 our school. I see so many general education Continued on Page 4

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In this issue Grants ...... Page 12 TEACHING Fertile-Beltrami Public School is a TODAY MN Student Contests ...... Page 4 2018 Blue Ribbon School! ...... Page 13 Publisher/Editor: Renee Feight Aiding Others Through Habitat ...... Page 5 Maple River East Elementary School is a 2018 Blue Ribbon School! ...... Page 13 Editor: Andria Reinke White Bear Lake Area Schools Embraces PAGE COMPOSITION: Andrew Clausen Construction Careers Pathways for Mora Educator Named Recipient of $15,000 WEBMASTER: Scott Bayerl Middle and Senior High Students ...... Page 6 Award for Excellence ...... Pagae 14 SPECIAL ASSISTANT: Allie Zacharias Pine Island Educator Named Recipient Please direct articles, advertising, questions or Careers in the Construction Industry ...... Page 7 of $15,000 Award for Excellence ...... Page 14 comments to: New Construction Course at Eagan High School Teaching Today MN™ Gives Students the Tools of the Trades ...... Page 8 Saint Anthony Park Science Teacher PO Box 1704 Honored with Presidential Award ...... Page 16 Anoka Hennepin Health Service Coordinator Eau Claire,WI 54702 Soupir Earns ‘Excellent Educator’ Honors ...... Page 17 Phone/Fax 715-839-7074 Cynthia Hiltz Earns National Honor ...... Page 10 www.teachingtodaymn.com VANTAGE’s New Health Sciences Format St. James Educator Named Recipient Please direct all inquiries to: Proves to be a Rich Experience ...... Page 11 of $15,000 Award for Excellence ...... Page 17 [email protected] After School Run/Walk Club at Jay Haugen is the 2019 Minnesota Teaching Today™ is an independent publication Mississippi Elementary School ...... Page 11 Superintendent of the Year ...... Page 18 for educators. The opinions expressed in Teaching Today™ are not necessarily the opinions of Teaching Today™. From the Blog  teachingtodayMN.wordpress.com We reserve the right to edit any and all materials submitted due to grammar, content and space U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon A Workshop for High School Teachers allowances. Articles, photos and artwork submitted to Schools Applications Climate Crisis: Implementing Solutions Teaching Today™ are assumed to be released by the Saturday December 1, 2018 submitter for publication. The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), in cooperation with the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, nominates candidates The purpose of this workshop is to disseminate this free- Teaching Today™ based on an application process. The timeline includes the availability to-use material and thereby encourage high school teachers and Transportation Today™ of the application in early September, submission deadline of January academic administrators statewide to implement these courses at Manufacturing Today™ 2019, and announcement of the award in May or June. their own schools, colleges and universities.

All of us at Teaching Today MN want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your devotion and caring in educating and seeing the beautiful bright minds of your students! We wish you and yours peace and a wonderful 2019 Page 4 Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com

Deadline: Projects are due February 8, 2019. mentions of $250 are given, for a total of 12 Website: www.exploravision.org/what- prizes. For middle school, one first prize of exploravision $500 and one runner up prize of $250 are Student Contests and Awards given for a total of six prizes. National Science Bowl Deadline: Entries are due February 28, 2019. eCYBERMISSION EngineerGirl Essay Contest The US Department of Energy (DOE) Website: www.worldof7billion.org/student- eCYBERMISSION is a web-based The annual EngineerGirl Essay Contest National Science Bowl (NSB) is a nation- video-contest/ science, technology, engineering, and math- encourages students to write about the role of wide academic competition for middle and ematics (STEM) competition free for students engineering in society and the impact it has high school students that tests knowledge in C-SPAN’s StudentCam Video in grades 6 through 9. Teams of students on our world. Essays for the current contest, all areas of science and mathematics. It was can compete for state, regional, and national which is entitled, “Engineering For Your Com- created in 1991 to encourage students to excel Documentary Competition awards while working to solve problems in munity,” should convince other to improve the in mathematics and science and to pursue C-SPAN’s StudentCam is an annual their communities. community’s infrastructure. careers in those fields. national video documentary competition for Deadline: Team registration deadline is First-place winners are awarded $500, Regional competition dates vary, but are students in grades 6 through 12. Individual stu- December 19, 2018. second-place $250, and third-place $100. typically between January and March. See dents or teams of up to three students create a Website: www.ecybermission.com/HowTo- Deadline: Essays are due February 1, 2019. the website for specific dates. The national short video documentary on the current theme. Compete Website: www.engineergirl.org/108311/2019- competition will take April 26 through 30, Each video documentary should choose a contest 2018; April 25 through 29, 2019; and April 30 constitutional right, national characteristic, or Wonder League Robotics through May 4, 2020. historic event and explain how it defines the Toshiba/NSTA ExploraVision Website: science.energy.gov/wdts/nsb/ American experience. Competition One grand prize of $5,000 is awarded to The competition is intended to help Competition World of 7 Billion Video Contest the student or team and $750 to the teacher advisor or school to purchase digital video students develop computational thinking, ExploraVision is a science competition Population Education is sponsoring a video equipment for the school. First-place prizes of problem-solving, and creativity by learning to that engages students teams in research and contest open to all middle and high school stu- $3,000 each to the student or team and $500 code; encourages growth mindset and twenty- development with a strong emphasis on science, dents in grades 6 through 12. Contest entrants each to the teacher and school are awarded. first century skills; and builds teamwork and technology, engineering, and mathematics create a short video of 60 seconds or less that Second-place prizes of $1,500 each to the community spirit. Student teams design solu- (STEM). Working in teams of two, three, or illustrates the connection between population student or team and $250 each to the teacher tions to real-world science and technology four members, students study a technology of growth and one of the three following global and school are awarded. Third-place prizes of challenges by programming robots. interest and predict what that technology might challenges: (1) preserving biodiversity; (2) sus- $750 each to the student or team and $125 each Three winning teams receive a cash prize be like in 20 years, and then explore what is tainable resource use; and (3) protecting human to the teacher and school are awarded. Honor- of $5,000. Each member of the winning team necessary to make their visions a reality. rights. All videos must include how population able mentions of $250 each to the student or also receives a robot of choice. Each first-place team receives a prize of a growth impacts the issue and provide at least team are awarded. Deadline: Registration is due Dec. 31, 2018. US EE Savings Bond worth $10,000 at matu- one idea for a sustainable solution. Website: www.makewonder.com/classroom/ rity for each student. Each second-place team For high school, one first prize of $1,000; Deadline: All entries must be uploaded by robotics-competition/ receives a prize of a US EE Savings Bond one second prize of $500; and two honorable January 20, 2019. worth $5,000 at maturity for each student. Website: www.studentcam.org Homecoming Pants: A Lakeville Original Skilled at Making a Difference in Life Continued from Page 1 Continued from Page 1 You put your year or a cheer, and they’re really that part of what makes that fun is that all of is always looking for stiff. I had to put them in the back of my trunk the activities that happen throughout the week, new ideas and ways and then put them on when I got to school. I from the pep fest to the SMASH-A-CAR to the to motivate her stu- couldn’t ride with them.” homecoming DJ to the games at lunch to every- dents. She frequently Messier said Lakeville Area Schools are thing that happens in between, it’s all planned gives up her lunch still the only ones she knows about to make and organized by kids. So, I think our students break or prep time homecoming pants, and the fun isn’t limited to grew up through the ranks and get excited about to support a student the high schools. one day being the organizer of a homecom- in need. Nicole is “Even little kids down in the elementary ing activity, and that’s why the traditions keep a bright spot in the schools, even though we don’t have homecom- growing as strong as they are.” Falcon Ridge special ing week like in the other schools, like in the education team. We high schools,” Messier said, “they do jeans, and Lakeville Pride appreciate her more they have all these tassels off the side. They’re The stands were packed with Lakeville than she knows!” pretty wild.” pride as the Lakeville Area Schools community One of Saatzer’s of alumni and students celebrated homecoming favorite traditions Student-Led Celebrations week football games at Lakeville North High each spring is attend- “All of the activities that happen through- School on September 28 and Lakeville South ing the Lifeskills out the week, [. . .] it’s all planned and organized High School on October 12. Both schools came graduation party at We are proud of our teachers and staff by kids.” away with commanding wins, with the Pan- the high school for her former students. She who exemplify the New Prague Way every Of course, the pants are just one aspect thers defeating Wayzata 42–13 and the Cougars always leaves teary eyed and with a full heart. day to make a significant difference in the of the homecoming fun. Zweber said he has jumping past Shakopee in a 34–20 victory. This event reminds her of why she does this lives of our students! always appreciated the level of school spirit and job year after year – to see the students as involvement that the kids have. seniors and to look back at the progress they ”I mean, it’s year in, year out,” Zweber have made over the years. The kids are so said. “It never really seems to be a lull from isd194.org happy when Mrs. Saatzer walks in, a true tes- www.npaschools.org one year to the next. It just continues to keep (952) 232-2000 tament to her years of showing her students (952) 758-1700 growing a little bit more. Kids get excited about she cares and a shining example of The New it. They have a lot of fun with it, and I think Prague Way! Teaching Today Minnesota | Fall 2018, Volume 2 Construction Page 5 Aiding Others Through Habitat Paul Downer, Communications Coordinator could because of the situation they are in – it Superintendent/School Board Assistant was very cool.” Delano Public Schools Fitzer said the inspiration for the experi- Sometimes the most meaningful learn- ence came from the CIS curriculum through ing experiences come outside the classroom, the University of Minnesota, which has a truth that a number of DHS Spanish students strongly encouraged service learning. While recently experienced when they spent a day working through a human rights unit, students volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. learned not only about various abuses, but also Ten College in the Schools Spanish stu- about positive developments and groups like dents led by Spanish teachers John Fitzer and Habitat for Humanity. Paige Entzi traveled to Minneapolis, where “We were talking about Habitat, why not a number of them were assigned to work in go see it in action?” said Fitzer, who began Habitat’s “ReStore” and a few others were dis- exploring the possibility last spring and may patched to Bloomington to help with a home seek to arrange similar experiences in the restoration project. future. “It was very fun. I would definitely like to Although the trip conflicted with the state do it again,” said senior Camden Tschudi, who basketball tournament, which resulted in a spent his day installing laminate flooring in a smaller group than originally planned, Fitzer basement under the direction of two Habitat said the feedback from participants was over- supervisors, who also oversaw the installation whelmingly positive. of tile upstairs and painting and restoration of “‘I would do it again in a second.’ I heard a deck. that from almost every one of them,” he said. “It was just a really cool experience “I wasn’t expecting that, but I was really It doesn’t take much and I can help someone lum is important, the big picture is educating because you really felt like you were helping hoping they were going to feel this was some- else out who is less fortunate than I am.’” kids and getting them ready for real life,” he other people,” said senior Riley Campion, who thing very positive. I was hoping they would said. “We educate the whole child here. Part stayed at the ReStore during the day to help see that you don’t have to do much and you The Work of educating the whole child is giving them construct shelving. “We only did shelves, but can help people in need. You’re from a more At the house site Tschudi said the group life experiences that are going to make a dif- to help the company that makes such a big well-to-do community and with very little of students made good progress, finishing the ference in the future. Twenty years down the difference in people’s lives – that helps them effort you can go online and volunteer, go to a upstairs floor tile and deck work, and nearly road they might remember Mr. Fitzer taking get started or do things they didn’t think they house site or go to their ReStore and volunteer. completing the basement flooring. Tschudi them to Habitat. They will remember it was I’m hoping the kids will realize, ‘I can do this. explained that in addition to building new a good experience and it might cause them to homes, Habitat will buy up existing houses, look for things to do to help out in their own restore them and sell them at reduced rates to community.” those who qualify. He said the students who participated didn’t hesitate when Fitzer asked if they would www.delano.k12.mn.us be interested in the service learning day. (763) 972-3365 “A lot of us jumped on board right away. We were like, ‘Yeah, we’d love to,’” he said. Meanwhile, at the ReStore Fitzer, Entzi and three students were tasked with building shelves. “They just said, here, look at this shelf and you go from there. So we did it wrong like three times, which was kind of frustrating, but also funny,” said Campion. “I think it took us an hour to build our first shelf, and then once we finally got the hang of it was about 15 minutes per shelf.” Campion said it was eye-opening to see the huge area filled with countless discounted items, from appliances and furniture to doors and windows. “Everyone thinks of building homes with Habitat, but a lot of people already have a house and they just can’t afford the good stuff to go inside of it. But this is someplace where they can get it,” she said. Holistic Education Although there was a tie to the group’s Spanish curriculum, Fitzer said the point of the trip was not necessarily to build Spanish skills but to seek experiential learning. “After you’ve been a teacher a long time you realize that while my particular curricu- Page 6 Construction Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com White Bear Lake Area Schools Embraces Construction Careers Pathways for Middle and Senior High Students Pathways program track during the 2017-18 school season. into construction or a related field after gradu- at White Bear Lake The Career Pathways Program welcomes ating,” Moore explains. “As Career Pathway Area Schools, says all students, from those who choose to begin participants, students have additional oppor- the program has been working immediately after graduation to those tunities outside of their classes to learn more instrumental in con- who decide to pursue a variety of post-second- about the construction skilled trades.” necting students with ary degrees. The school’s guidance counselors “We also understand that students are careers in construc- work with each student to develop a post- committed to electives such as choir, band, tion as well as several graduation career plan, which is required for world language, and other engaging classes,” other industries. graduation. Moore continues. “If a student’s schedule is “The program “The program at White Bear Lake Area full and they’re unable to take one of our con- started several years Schools represents an amazing opportunity for struction classes, then we encourage them to ago when we received young people,” says Don Mullin, executive join the Career Pathways Program to receive a grant to fund a secretary of the St. Paul Building and Con- notifications of additional opportunities.” program in manu- struction Trades Council and the school board “It also allows students to see how sub- facturing,” Moore chair of the White Bear Lake Area Schools. jects such as math and science are used daily says. “We experi- “What we’re doing is kicking the door open in building Minnesota’s infrastructure (roads, enced such a positive for students to explore different options, such bridges) and buildings,” Mullin adds. “What For many high school students, college impact with the program that White Bear Lake as careers in construction.” I hope the young people in our school district seems like the only option after graduation. Area Schools decided to keep investing in the In addition to attending classes specific see is that there may be a career for them, such But for those hoping to work with their hands program to ensure all students are college and to their career track, students can learn about as in the construction industry that appeals to and go straight into the workforce, and earn career ready post-graduation. different jobs over Lunch & Learns, listen to their interests. When we do that, we’re on our while they learn, a career in the construction Today, the White Bear Lake Area Schools’ guest speakers, attend career fairs, and apply way to helping people find careers that they industry may be the perfect fit. Career Pathways program offers four career for internships in their respective programs. actually enjoy.” One school district that has taken the paths for students to explore: construction, With the Construction Career Pathway The Construction Apprenticeship Prepa- lead in developing alternative career path- healthcare, manufacturing and information program, students earn high school credits ration (CAP) program, administered through ways for high school students is White Bear technology (IT), which are primarily offered to toward graduation while gaining real-life Construction Careers Pathways, a statewide Lake Area Schools (ISD 624). Jenny Moore, students in grades 9 through 12. The program knowledge about the construction industry. effort to introduce young adults to careers in Career Pathways Navigator and Jeremy Kerg, serves approximately 595 students, of which “Students can sign up for relevant classes College and Career Counselor lead the Career 65 students participated in the construction specifically designed for those planning to go Continued on Page 7

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facebook.com/ndsuengineering @NDSUengineering @ndsu_coe ndsu.edu/coe/youtube Teaching Today Minnesota | Fall 2018, Volume 2 Construction Page 7 Careers in the Construction Industry Construction Laborers ance with specifications, building codes, and Construction Carpenters work is in accordance with relevant codes. other regulations. Inspections may be general May install or service street lights, intercom Perform tasks involving physical labor Construct, erect, install, and repair struc- in nature or may be limited to a specific area, systems, or electrical control systems. at construction sites. May operate hand and tures and fixtures of wood, plywood, and such as electrical systems or plumbing. Median wage (2016) $25.35 hourly, $52,720 power tools of all types: air hammers, earth wallboard, using carpenter’s hand tools and Median wage (2016) $28.12 hourly, $58,480 annual tampers, cement mixers, small mechanical power tools. annual hoists, surveying and measuring equipment, Median wage (2016) $20.96 hourly, $43,600 Plumbers and a variety of other equipment and instru- Operating Engineers & Other annual Assemble, install, or repair pipes, fit- ments. May clean and prepare sites, dig Construction Equipment Operators tings, or fixtures of heating, water, or drainage trenches, set braces to support the sides of Cost Estimators Operate one or several types of power systems, according to specifications or plumb- excavations, erect scaffolding, and clean up Prepare cost estimates for product manu- construction equipment, such as motor ing codes. rubble, debris and other waste materials. May facturing, construction projects, or services to graders, bulldozers, scrapers, compressors, Median wage (2016) $24.74 hourly, $51,450 assist other craft workers. aid management in bidding on or determining pumps, derricks, shovels, tractors, or front-end annual Median wage (2016) $16.07 hourly, $33,430 price of product or service. May specialize loaders to excavate, move, and grade earth, annual according to particular service performed or Architects erect structures, or pour concrete or other hard type of product manufactured. Plan and design structures, such as surface pavement. May repair and maintain Construction Managers Median wage (2016) $29.71 hourly, $61,790 private residences, office buildings, theaters, equipment in addition to other duties. Plan, direct, or coordinate, usually through annual factories, and other structural property. Median wage (2016) $22.06 hourly, $45,890 subordinate supervisory personnel, activities Median wage (2016) $36.99 hourly, $76,930 annual Cement Masons & Concrete Finishers concerned with the construction and maintenance annual of structures, facilities, and systems. Participate Civil Engineers Smooth and finish surfaces of poured in the conceptual development of a construction concrete, such as floors, walks, sidewalks, Heating and Air Conditioning Perform engineering duties in planning, project and oversee its organization, scheduling, roads, or curbs using a variety of hand and designing, and overseeing construction and Mechanics & Installers budgeting, and implementation. Includes man- power tools. Align forms for sidewalks, curbs, maintenance of building structures, and facili- Install, service, or repair heating and air agers in specialized construction fields, such as or gutters; patch voids; and use saws to cut ties, such as roads, railroads, airports, bridges, conditioning systems in residences or com- carpentry or plumbing. expansion joints. harbors, channels, dams, irrigation projects, mercial establishments. Median wage (2016) $42.93 hourly, $89,300 Median wage (2016) $18.84 hourly, $39,180 pipelines, power plants, and water and sewage Median wage (2016) $22.07 hourly, $45,910 annual annual systems. annual Construction & Building Inspectors Median wage (2016) $40.16 hourly, $83,540 Electricians Inspect structures using engineering skills annual Install, maintain, and repair electrical Source: O*NET to determine structural soundness and compli- wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that

Construction Careers Pathways at White Bear Lake Area Schools Continued from Page 6 construction, provides the technical curricu- courses when they come into high school, and in construction,” Moore says. school construction programs will have a posi- lum for the two construction courses offered eventually pursue careers in the construction “At the same time, we’re educating tive impact on students interested in pursuing by White Bear Lake Area Schools. industry after they graduate,” she adds. parents about the skilled trades. They don’t construction, engineering or technical careers CAP programs are offered by eight School counselors, career counselors and always understand how challenging an appren- in the future. Minnesota public school systems, including the Career Pathways Program at White Bear ticeship training program can be,” she adds. “Independent School District 624 sup- Minneapolis Public Schools, Rosemount-Apple Lake Area Schools support and encourage all “Their child is training to become journeyper- ports the growing need for construction Valley-Eagan Public Schools, Bloomington students to pursue post-secondary training and son, and that’s no easy task.” careers, and appreciates how much drive and Public Schools, Roseville Area Schools, Saint academic opportunities. When students are Due to the Construction Career Pathway’s passion our students have shown so far,” says Paul Public Schools, White Beat Lake Public exploring apprenticeship opportunities and infancy, White Bear Lake Area Schools is Moore. “We’re going to continue working as Schools, Mounds View Public Schools and careers in the construction trades, faculty and working on gathering data for future analysis. hard as we can to make sure that our students South St. Paul Public Schools. Interest in the staff are mindful to mention other important “I use a lot of student testimonials and are successful at whatever they do after high program is growing rapidly. skills such as communications, professional- data in my grant proposals, and the numbers school.” High school students are not the only ones ism and math. certainly don’t lie,” Moore shares. “We are “What this is really all about is that these interested in learning more about careers in “All of our counselors are so supportive,” already having an impact, and in three to five young people are our sons and daughters. They construction through CAP school curriculum. Moore says. “They want students to focus years, we’ll start to see how big that impact represent our future,” Mullin adds. “By expos- White Bear Lake Area Schools is introducing on being a productive citizen, whatever that really is.” ing them to careers in construction, we’re middle school students to career opportunities means to them.” One person who is seeing an impact is helping them see that they have options that as well. “Our counselors ask every senior to turn Gretchen Harriman, principal of White Bear will allow them to gain long-term employment “We have 25 students, in grades 5 through in a plan for after high school,” she says. “This Lake Area Schools’ Area Learning Center that will put them squarely into middle class 9, who participated in the Construction Career set of high school seniors grew up during the (ALC). “The parents of the ALC construction with fringe benefits they can count on.” Pathways’ Kids at Work summer program,” Great Recession, and aren’t in any hurry to students are thankful that their students have Reprinted with permission from Moore says. take on tons of debt right after high school. A found a meaningful career pathway. Some Constructioncareers.org Kids at Work is a hands-on summer expe- career in construction is a great alternative to of them are in the trades themselves. Others rience for students in grades 5-9 that combines that, and gives students a chance to work with have seen their students engage in decisions the fun and games of Science, Technology, their hands.” that have created a crossroads where they www.whitebear.k12.mn.us Engineering and Math (STEM) with exciting Like students, parents also need to be can choose a positive path or a harmful one activities focused on the construction building educated on viable post-high school options — those parents tend to see the Construction (651) 407-7500 trades. for their children. Career Pathway Program as a lifeline for their “We hope that all of these students will be “We are starting the conversation with teenagers’ futures.” inspired to take Construction Career Pathway families about what it means to pursue a career Jennifer is highly optimistic that high Page 8 Construction Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com New Construction Course at Eagan High School Gives Students the Tools of the Trades you asked the majority of students if they felt “This class really showed me that I could comfortable building a wall or running pipe have a viable future in construction,” Koenen or wire, or if they even know how it worked, said. “And the more I dig deeper, the more I I think everyone would have said no,” Owen like this as an option for me.” added. “Now, we all have that knowledge.” This last summer, Koenen, who wants In May, the students were expected to to go into carpentry, was planning to work hand over the tiny house to its owner, who sup- on small projects alongside his neighbors, plied the materials and will put on the finishing one of whom is a stonemason and the other touches. is a plumber. Several of his classmates are also exploring careers as skilled laborers. Replenishing an Industry Emma Zellmer, who had only helped her dad The course isn’t just about teaching stu- with minor projects around the house, is now dents new skills, it’s also about setting them up switching her education track from pre-law to for potential careers. a double major in construction management “We have heard that 50 percent of the and business. workforce in Minnesota will retire in the next “For decades we’ve been pushing the tra- five years,” Hauenstein said. “And statistics ditional college track, but for some kids that say that Baby Boomers hold 5 million con- isn’t the best fit,” Hauenstein said. “Here in the struction jobs. When they move out of that trades environment, they thrive. And they can sector, there will be a huge gap.” walk away and not just see a grade, but some- Communications Department, said senior Romeo Owen. “There were a few Together with fellow tech ed teacher thing they build with their own hands.” Rosemount-Apple Valley-Eagan Public of us that had some experience, but the rest of Wayne Krantz, the two advocated for the new Schools District 196 us were still trying to learn basic terminology.” class. Students had the opportunity to network Inexpensive materials allowed students to Underneath the frame of a tiny house, with professionals in the field and took several www.district196.org Eagan High School teacher Ryan Hauen- build — and rebuild — a functioning structure, field trips to learn directly from them. They met stein teaches one his students the proper way as well as build on their knowledge of con- with tradespeople in the construction industry, (651) 651-7700 to install pipes for a plumbing unit. He then struction. When Hauenstein went looking for a Habitat for Humanity and trade unions, an supervises as another student carefully slices second project, he was offered an opportunity interaction Krantz said drove home the idea of a wooden ceiling plank, installing it moments to construct a tiny house. what it’s like to work in construction. later. It is this hands-on learning technique in “I think part of it was the increased Hauenstein’s Construction and Building Trades responsibility and pressure of getting this right, course that is molding the next generation of because this was someone’s home,” said senior tradespeople. Jake Koenen. “We all went in more careful Funded by a Construction Careers Foun- knowing that someone was going to live in dation grant, the elective was added last fall. this.” Twelve students signed up for the inaugural Just before fall break, the students got PLAN IT. class and have been navigating the construction to work erecting the tiny house frame on a field throughout the year during a two-block two-wheel trailer bed. Rain or shine, even on period at the end of the day. Just seven months, sub-zero winter days, the students hammered MANAGE IT. Hauenstein said the course is already proving to away at the project. Hauenstein said braving the be a valuable investment. elements is a real-life factor in the construction Last October, students took on their first business and learning how to persevere through BUILD IT. project — a tool shed, which for the novice unfavorable conditions was an important lesson builders admittedly was a challenge. Every- for students. thing from the design to framing, siding, Week after week the frame began to take painting and installing rafters were tasks the the shape of a house, which when completed students learned how to complete. will be roughly 250 square feet. As the tiny “It was more like a test project for us,” home grew, so did the skillsets of each student, as well as their inter- est in the field. For Construction engineers plan, design and help build everything from Koenen, the class skyscrapers to bridges. In the Opus College of Engineering at Marquette brought everything University, we develop versatile problem-solvers and skilled managers who full circle for him. “From barely can work in rapidly changing environments and ensure the costs, schedule, being able to read a quality and safety of a project are on track. Our bachelor of science in tape measure to now construction engineering gives students the opportunity to put what people can just shout they’re learning into practice. Build your future at Marquette. something up to me while I’m working marquette.edu/engineering and I understand them, that’s a cool feeling,” he said. “The biggest thing is that at the start of this class, if Teaching Today Minnesota | Fall 2018, Volume 2 Page 9 Page 10 Health and Wellness Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com Anoka Hennepin Health Service Coordinator Cynthia Hiltz Earns National Honor Hiltz, who has her Master of Science the state or nationally, which sets the district nation in several student health issues, such (MS), nursing license (RN), is a public apart. as mental health care,” she said. “You look health nurse (PHN) and is a National Certi- “It feels like that’s my legacy,” Hiltz at other districts — they don’t have the fied School Nurse (NCSN), joked that she said. “I think we have a great model and I’m range of interventions that can be given. The can now add another acronym to her title: proud of where we are.” support team we have in Anoka-Hennepin is FNASN, or fellow of the National Academy Hiltz said school nursing is still a bit amazing.” of School Nursing. of a mystery for a lot of people in the com- As for the fellowship, Hiltz said she’s “It’s a lot of acronyms,” she said, “but munity, something she’s trying to help with, heard from school nursing colleagues from it’s also 30 years of hard work, and it’s too. around the nation offering congratulations. amazing to be recognized.” “The public thinks that a child goes She first learned she’d earned the recogni- According to the NASN, the fellowship to school and they get sick or they fall and tion from NASN President Nina Fekaris. is a symbol of superior achievement in the someone helps them, but in reality, that’s “That phone call — that was amazing. school nursing profession, and recognizes just the tip of the iceberg,” she said. I thought she had called me to say hi,” Hiltz exceptional contributions to NASN and the School nurses are also working with said. profession of school nursing. “The depth students who might be struggling academi- Hiltz was officially recognized as a Anoka-Hennepin School District and breadth of the fellow’s imprint on the cally, Hiltz said. “Sometimes if students are fellow on June 30 during NASN’s annual Anoka-Hennepin’s Health Service field is extraordinary; their contributions struggling with academics, they often have conference in Baltimore, Maryland. She's Coordinator Cynthia Hiltz recently earned a have had a significant and enduring impact, an underlying medical condition, and school was also recognized by the Anoka-Henne- title very few school nurses ever have. and their exemplary leadership qualities and nurses help and assess them to get them the pin School Board at its March 26 meeting. Earlier this year, Hiltz was named achievements are recognized by many,” the care and help they need.” a National Academy of School Nursing NASN fellowship description said. School nurses are also there to support (NASN) fellow, an honor only 98 other Hiltz started working in the Anoka- students management of chronic health www.ahschools.us school nurses have earned nationally since Hennepin School District in 1994, first as issues during the day, such as asthma, dia- 1997. It’s the highest honor a school nurse a substitute, and then a full-time school betes, or seizures. (763) 506-1000 can earn. nurse in 1996. In 2002 she became the “We have kindergarteners who are “Oh my gosh, it was amazing,” Hiltz district’s health service coordinator. In her using an inhaler for their asthma, but can’t said of learning she had earned the fellow- time leading the district’s health services even tell the time yet,” she said. “We support ship. “This is truly national peer recognition team, Anoka-Hennepin has become a model them so they can focus on learning.” in school nursing — it really is. When your across the state and nationally, she said. Another area school nurses are leading peers are looking at you for this — it’s a big There are RNs and health paraprofession- the way is in mental health, Hiltz said. deal. I’m so proud.” als at every site, which isn’t common across “I think our district is leading the

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Teaching Today WI Run Date: Nov. 2018 Size: 9.75”x 6.25” Cost: $770 Teaching Today Minnesota | Fall 2018, Volume 2 Health and Wellness Page 11 VANTAGE’s New Health Sciences Format Proves to be a Rich Experience state certification exam meet the expectations of our students and fami- settings through hands-on learning, solving which could translate lies. It is clear the adjustments made this year to authentic business problems through project- into the possibility of a the health sciences strand have provided new, based assignments, and working one-on-one job in healthcare. exciting opportunities for students interested with mentors in the community, all while fulfill- Through their in the medical field. The tremendous growth in ing rigorous academic credit requirements. first semester project enrollment in VANTAGE overall, and the posi- VANTAGE offers six areas of study (or work, students have the tive comments we continue to hear from students strands): unique opportunity to and from community partners are testaments to • Health Sciences interview and develop the program’s outstanding leadership and to the • Global Food Sustainability: Economics a relationship with a strength and quality of the VANTAGE experi- and the Environment resident from a senior ence for our students. We are so appreciative of living residence as they our community partners, staff, and mentors for • Design + Marketing compile data on how all they do to make this program so meaningful • Digital Journalism the resident’s sense of for our students.” • Business Analytics community and sense • Business in a Global Economy of purpose has devel- About VANTAGE Minnetonka Public Schools oped over their lifetime. Minnetonka High School’s professional As part of VANTAGE’s commitment Students will ultimately make recommendations studies program, VANTAGE, is a vibrant minnetonkaschools.org to provide the best student experience, their to the resident facility on how they may want to example of innovation in modern education. (952) 401-5000 Health Sciences strand was reconfigured for the implement any improvements found during their VANTAGE offers a unique way for high school 2018-19 school year. Impacts are already huge research. students to apply their course work in real-world as enrollment grew from 16 to 84 students. The Human Anatomy instructor, Stephanie amount of energy in the building and the learn- Nelson, said, “We have a motivated and adapt- ing that is happening is inspiring. able group. Each week, students balance the In addition to AP Psychology and Human demands of AP Psychology, their medical Anatomy, each student is either being trained science certification, Human Anatomy, a lab at After School Run/Walk Club at Mississippi to become an emergency medical responder or the high school, their 1:1 mentor relationship, a registered nursing assistant. The new format and their Semester 1 group project.” Elementary School Provides Avenue For provides insight into the vast career opportu- Lisa Wagner, Minnetonka School Board nities available in the healthcare field. In the Chair, commented, “The School Board is Exercise and Fellowship spring, students will have the option to take a pleased that VANTAGE continues to more than Anoka-Hennepin School District The run/walk club at Mississippi Elemen- tary School is still going on strong, 10 years later, thanks to the leadership of Twyla George and Dawn Applequist. The run/walk club For Middle started under the direction of former principal Mark Hansen and longtime physical education SCRUBS and instructor Kevin Nystedt while the two were training for a marathon. High School Now with Hansen taking over as the prin- CAMP Students cipal at Jefferson Elementary School, George and Applequist have taken control of the club and are happy to see it continue to grow. “We now offer three sessions throughout the year,” said Applequist, a math specialist at Mississippi. “In the winter we put on a group called Move and Groove and we steadily have over 40 students sign up for all three events.” Around 10 percent of the student body walk club,” Applequist said. “Fortunately our Interested in pursuing a career at Mississippi are currently participating in current group of students enjoys the activity in the health sciences? At Scrubs the after-school program. The run/walk club and we haven’t had to revisit the topic.” Camp, you will experience a variety is held twice per school year, once in the fall Applequist added that some students of healthcare careers by engaging and again in the spring, and runs for six weeks within the group are training to be the fastest while the Move and Groove club is held in the in fun hands-on activities led by in their class in the mile run and the program winter. offers them a chance to continue training. working professionals Located on school grounds at Mississippi At the end of the day on Oct. 23 the Mis- is a quarter-mile track in which the students sissippi run/walk club members also received Registration for have a goal to run and or walk at least four the benefit of enjoying a beautiful fall - after laps per session, with many opting to alternate noon, outdoors, with their classmates. 2019 Scrubs Camp between running and walking and far exceed- will open in ing the weekly goal. Another aspect of the club is to learn the www.ahschools.us January, 2019. Camps fill fast! Don’t miss out! benefits of exercise and movement and living a healthy lifestyle. (763) 506-1000 For more information go to: HealthForceMinnesota.org/students “We talk about the health benefits and the importance of exercise on the first day of run/ Page 12 Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com

ful student learning. Eligible grant expenses national impact, specifically programs that: include materials such as books, calculators, • Raise the public’s participation in eco- Apply for a tablets, computers, or related equipment, as nomic education or create a demand for greater well as professional development in the use of economic literacy. the designated tools and technology. • Apply new strategies for teaching eco- Grants up to $3,000 are awarded. nomics, including online and web-based Deadline: Applications are due May 3, 2019. instruction. Website: www.nctm.org/Grants-and-Awards/ • Encourage measurement of economic Grant Grants/Enhancing-Student-Mathematics- understanding. ecoTech Grants Project Produce: Fruit and Veggie Learning-through-the-Use-of-Tools-and- • Help otherwise disenfranchised youth Technology-Grants-%28Pre-K-12%29 and young adults with children learn to The Captain Planet Foundation (CPF) is Grants for Schools participate in the economic system. offering grants to support inquiry-based proj- The purpose of Project Produce is to Toshiba America Grant Program Grants up to $150,000 are awarded. ects in science, technology, engineering, and create planned lunchroom activities to show- mathematics (STEM) fields that leverage tech- for 6-12 Science and Mathematics Deadline: Applications are due February 15 case and taste fresh vegetables and fruits. and September 15, annually. nology or use nature-based designs to address Proposed projects must be planned with the Educators environmental problems in local communities. Website: www.kazanjian.org/grants/apply intention of offering activities to all students Toshiba America Foundation accepts Grants up to $2,500 are awarded. in the school building. Lunchtime-based proj- applications from teachers who are passionate Deadline: Applications are accepted July ects are preferred because they offer access to about making science and mathematics more Japan Foundation Grants 16 through January 15 and January 16 all students. engaging for their students. The foundation The Japan Foundation’s Center for through July 15, annually. Grants of $2,500 are awarded. seeks to support teachers by providing funds Global Partnership offers Education Grants for Website: captainplanetfoundation.org/grants/ Deadline: Applications are accepted year- to support classroom projects. The foundation projects designed to increase awareness and ecotech round. strongly encourages projects planned and led understanding of Japan in the United States Website: www.chefannfoundation.org/pro- by individual teachers or teams of teachers for by addressing the needs of students and teach- ecoSolution Grants grams-and-grants/project-produce their own classrooms. ers in kindergarten through grade 12. Funds support teacher training, curriculum develop- The Captain Planet Foundation (CPF) Deadline: Applications are accepted year- ment, and community outreach efforts. awards ecoSolution Grants to support solu- Emeril Lagasse Foundation Grants round for requests less than $5,000. Grants up to $5,000 are awarded. tion-oriented, youth-led projects that result in Requests for grants of more than $5,000 The Emeril Lagasse Foundation works are due June 1 and November 1, annually. Deadline: Applications accepted year-round. real environmental outcomes. Projects must be to inspire, mentor, and enable student success Website: www.toshiba.com/taf/612.jsp Website: www.cgp.org/grassroots-exchange- solution-oriented, project-based, performed by by integrating gardening and cooking con- and-education/education-grants youth, and have real environmental outcomes. cepts into school curriculums. The foundation Awards range from $500 to $2,500. makes Small Grants to support schools, and Saxena Family Foundation Grants Deadline: Applications are accepted July community organizations partnering with The Saxena Family Foundation has a Music Education Grants 16 through January 15 and January 16 schools, that have an existing school garden or particular focus on initiatives that promote The Guitar Center offers grants that through July 15, annually. a culinary education program. US science, technology, engineering, and support music education projects and pro- Website: captainplanetfoundation.org/grants/ Grants up to $10,000 are awarded. mathematics (STEM) education and the grams. The company believes that music ecosolution Deadline: Concept papers accepted year-round. empowerment of girls, female children, inspires creativity and personal expression, Website: emeril.org/small-grants and young women so that they have equal builds self-esteem, and teaches cooperation Environmental and Science Educa- rights later in life. The foundation focuses on and team building from playing music together. tion Grants American Honda Foundation Edu- empowerment programs to include economic, Deadline: Applications accepted year-round. educational, and political empowerment of Website: www.guitarcenter.com/pages/ Waste Management, Inc. supports envi- cation Grants women through literacy programs, jobs, and corporate-giving ronmental and science education programs, The American Honda Foundation sup- life-skills training. such as science fairs and Earth Day projects ports education with a specific focus on the Most awards range from $5,000 to targeting middle and high school students. areas of science, technology, engineering, $50,000. Minigrants for Youth Amateur There is also interest in proposals to preserve and mathematics (STEM); the environment; Deadline: Applications accepted year-round. Radio Groups and enhance natural resources. job training; and literacy. It engages in grant Website: saxenafoundation.com The ARRL Foundation of the American Deadline: Applications are accepted year- making that reflects the basic tenets, beliefs, Radio Relay League (ARRL) administers round. and philosophies of Honda companies. AIAA Foundation Classroom Grant grants through the Victor C. Clark Youth Website: www.wm.com/about/community/ Awards range from $20,000 to $75,000 Incentive Program. The primary focus is to charitable-giving.jsp over a one-year period. Program support programs and projects for youth that Deadline: For new applicants, applications The AIAA Foundation Classroom Grant enrich the experience of radio amateurs under Youth Garden Grant are due February 1 and August 1, annually. program promotes aerospace education activi- the age of 18. Minigrants are made for the fol- For returning applicants, applications are ties in classrooms from kindergarten through lowing types of projects: securing equipment To be eligible, schools or organizations due May 1, annually. grade 12. The program encourages develop- for antennas for club stations; purchasing must plan a new garden or expand an estab- Website: www.honda.com/community/apply- ment of innovative aerospace activities within training materials; and local service projects lished one that serves at least 15 children aged ing-for-a-grant the prescribed curriculum. that bring favorable public exposure. 3 to 18 involved in the project. The selection of Grants up to $250 are awarded. Grants up to $1,000 are awarded. winners is based on the demonstrated program impact and sustainability. Applications must Enhancing Student Mathematics Deadline: Applications due January 11, 2019. Deadline: Grant requests accepted year-round. be submitted online. Learning through the Use of Tools Website: www.aiaa.org/Secondary. Website: www.arrl.org/the-victor-c-clark- aspx?id=4184 youth-incentive-program The top five programs receive garden and Technology Grants award packages valued at $2,100. Twenty pro- grams receive garden award packages valued Enhancing Student Mathematics Learn- Calvin K. Kazanjian Economics at $500. ing through the Use of Tools and Technology Foundation Grants Deadline: Applications are due December 17, Grants are awarded to classroom teachers in 2018. prekindergarten through grade 12 to encour- The primary focus of the Kazanjian Foun- dation is to increase economic literacy. It gives Website: kidsgardening.org/garden-grants age innovative use of technology and other tools for effective teaching and meaning- special attention to proposals and projects with Teaching Today Minnesota | Fall 2018, Volume 2 Leadership Page 13 Fertile-Beltrami Public School is a 2018 Blue Ribbon School! The Fertile-Beltrami School is a rural ous high school science courses to supplement school located in Northwestern Minnesota. Fer- the standard science offerings. Students have tile-Beltrami is a k-12 school that serves over the opportunity to extend their learning in 450 students living in the area surrounding the science through Advanced Chemistry, Anatomy communities of Fertile and Beltrami. The Fer- and Physiology, Environmental Science, and tile-Beltrami School has been recognized for Zoology. The Core Curriculum also gives Fer- its academic accomplishments numerous times tile-Beltrami students the skills necessary to be by Minnesota’s Department of Education with informed, productive and proactive citizens, and its “Reward School” and “Celebration Eligible” has them ready to tackle the civic challenges that designations. will present themselves in both college and their The Fertile-Beltrami School staff and careers. In addition, Fertile-Beltrami students are school board are committed to educating for afforded the opportunity to take up to 45 college success in an environment of learning, respect, credits, through partnerships with area colleges and responsibility. The Fertile-Beltrami School in our dual credit College in the High School is committed to small class sizes, which allows program. for a more individualized direct instruction for At Fertile-Beltrami students are exposed to our students. Our teachers are devoted to their many opportunities outside of the Core Curricu- students and work hard to ensure that Minnesota lum. Fertile-Beltrami has visual and performing Academic Standards are delivered in a meaning- Arts, Business and Technology, Industrial Arts, for one semester and 9th grade takes a yearlong Beltrami Education Foundation is a non-profit ful way for all students. Teachers take pride in Ag, Physical Education and Health, Spanish, career class. The apex of Fertile-Beltrami’s busi- organization committed to expanding educa- their students’ accomplishments and push them and Library. These additional curricular areas ness program is its Web Masters course. This is tion opportunities beyond the basic curriculum, to be their very best. compliment Fertile-Beltrami’s Core Curriculum. a course open to seniors that must apply and be increasing programs for gifted and talented The Core Curriculum at Fertile-Beltrami is They help students achieve success not only aca- “hired” into the class. The class maintains the students, and inspiring students and teachers to focused on providing students with the essential demically, but build skills for life-long learning school’s website and also runs a business. The pursue creative ideas that improve education. knowledge that will have them ready for college and promote college and career readiness. business they run manages and maintains web- and prepared to enter the workforce. The Core Fertile-Beltrami offers a wide variety of Source: National Blue Ribbon Schools Program sites for many businesses and organizations. The Curriculum ensures Fertile-Beltrami students are opportunities through its business and tech- class uses the profits from the business to cover literate and have the skills necessary to be suc- nology department. Along with a traditional costs and award a scholarship each year to a cessful readers and writers. Fertile-Beltrami’s business program consisting of finance and graduating senior. fertilebeltrami.k12.mn.us Core Curriculum is designed to satisfy more than accounting principles, they also offer Web Another key factor in the success of the just the basics to survive beyond high school, Design and Video Editing, and Computers for (218) 945-6933 Fertile-Beltrami School is that it has tremendous it lays the foundations for life long aptitude in 10th through 12 grades. Seventh and 8th graders support from the community. We have a very mathematics. Fertile-Beltrami offers numer- take a combined computer and keyboarding class generous Education Foundation. The Fertile- Maple River East Elementary School is a 2018 Blue Ribbon School! as well as helping them In kindergarten, first, and second grade, now using Chromebooks. With these devices overcome any personal students have had opportunities to create proj- students now have access for supplementary challenges. Goal setting ects in a single day setting. Kinders had fun learning programs such as Accelerated Math, starts with the student creating bear dens, making paper plate marble Accelerated Reading, Reading Eggspress and and teacher creating per- mazes, and creating bridges to cross a 12-inch others. They also provide opportunities for stu- sonalized goals which span. In first grade, students made coffee filter dents to access their math and reading lessons. are then shared with leaves to watch colors changing, made paper Students are motivated by this method of learn- their parents. With this robots, and practiced measuring their heads to ing. This has been a benefit to the students to knowledge, parents can create reindeer antlers. In second grade, stu- continue learning. create their own goals to dents were excited to make wind-powered cars Education has changed since the 1850’s help further their child’s to race, build tents, and made sleighs. when the first settlers of the town arrived. It has educational develop- In third, fourth, and fifth grade, students always been an important part of our commu- ment. For example, work on multi-day, cooperative building activi- nity and always will. We have been recognized goals can range from ties. Third graders have made pinball machines multiple times as a Reward School. A Reward creating a time and place and created new animals. Fourth graders have School is a state based award for excellence. for homework, studying made ballooned powered buses to see how far We take great pride in that feat and celebrate math facts to discuss- they could travel and made scale & 3D models when the students accomplish these awards. ing the school day with of dream classrooms. Fifth graders made com- We continue to provide our students with a safe students each night. This pound machines to move a plastic egg and and supportive learning environment while con- collaboration method created a carnival game that incorporated con- tinuing to make improvements to our system to Our long-term success at Maple River has proven to be a valuable activity for our teach- cepts from their force and motion unit. All of the provide the best education for our students. East Elementary School comes from our staff’s ers, parents and students to rally around. upper grades are actively coding online using ability to work with students and parents to meet Source: National Blue Ribbon Schools Maple River has implemented a STEAM Code.org and love making familiar characters the individual needs of all students. We feel that Program program, which has quickly become a favorite move on their screens. collaboration between the home and the school class for many students. The hands-on building The board of education felt the need for play an integral role in the development of each activities and online coding, allows students to students to have access to iPads. The first year student. www.isd2135.k12.mn.us express themselves in ways they cannot in their we shared these devices at our two-section grade Our goal is to always challenge our kids regular subjects. The support from teachers, PTO, level. This past year all of our students have (507) 462-3348 to be the best they can be. This includes pre- parents, administration, and the school board, has their own handheld device. Our K-2 students paring them to succeed in their academic lives played a huge role in the program’s success. are using iPads, while our grade 3-5 students are Page 14 Leadership Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com Mora Educator Named Recipient of $15,000 Award for Excellence the Athletic Coach Award, which recognizes can teach his athletes, teachers who are exemplary coaches of ath- but is quick to point letic teams. out their academics Goebel has been teaching and coach- will take them further ing for 17 years. He currently teaches fifth in life. Once a week grade and is the head coach of the Mora High his teams have a short School cross country and track and field practice and then the teams. students gather in his According to Principal Brent Nelson, classroom to do home- “Chris Goebel cares more about develop- work. He feels the ing his athletes into successful, well rounded homework nights are individuals than he cares about wins and very beneficial to the Synergy & Leadership Exchange losses. One example of this is how he starts program. It allows the junior high runners (Synergy) is a non-profit organization dedi- each season. Instead of just requiring each a chance to see what a student athlete looks cated to fostering collaboration to advance student to write out a track goal or a cross like. They have the opportunity to watch the development of ethical citizens, provid- country goal, he makes his athletes reflect high achieving students work. ing educational resources, and celebrating Chris Goebel on developing their character. They write a Goebel shares, “Watching role models achievement and best practices in Minnesota family goal, a school goal, and a personal study and do homework is the best way to schools, businesses and communities. For Chris Goebel, a teacher at Mora Ele- goal. Goebel revisits these throughout the show how to value academics and it doesn’t more information on the WEM Outstanding mentary in the Mora Public Schools, was season to hold students accountable.” matter how fast or slow in running you might Educator Awards Program and Synergy & surprised March 21 with news that he is a The programs Goebel coaches has be.” Leadership Exchange, visit: www.synergy- recipient of a 2018 WEM Outstanding Edu- grown from 30 to 80 students participating. “Coach Goebel cares deeply about exchange.org. cator Award as an Athletic Coach, an honor The boys’ cross country team has qualified each of his athletes, and wants nothing but that is accompanied by a $15,000 award. for State Cross Country 12 straight years, to better their lives, and help them find the Goebel is one of six educators being and the girls’ team has qualified three times. complete enjoyment that running can bring moraschools.org/schools honored by the WEM Foundation and During that time period, the boys have won to them. Coach Goebel’s passion for coach- (320) 679-6200 Synergy & Leadership Exchange for out- three Class A State Championships and have ing and teaching spills over and can’t help standing accomplishments and contributions produced multiple All-State Athletes. but infect the lives of those around him,” said to student learning. His recognition comes in Goebel recognizes the lessons running a student. Pine Island Educator Named Recipient of $15,000 Award for Excellence or school activities, policies or curriculum. dents by allowing them Schimek has been teaching for 10 years to practice mentoring and currently teaches high school biology and reflect on their own at Pine Island High School. To help her stu- career pathways. dents see the big picture of studying biology, “Ms. Schimek Schimek started a Biology Brown Bag Career is someone I think Seminar series. She invites professionals from of often for inspira- the various biology fields to come in during tion and remember in the lunch hour and talk about their jobs and the moments of both defeat paths they took to get them there. Many of her and success,” shares a students enjoy biology or the medical field but student. “Ms. Schimek have no idea of the career options available. encourages the contem- She feels this is one way to open the doors of plation of deeper ideas possibility to them. such as how we fit into Superintendent Tamara A. Berg said, this vast world and the a blue ribbon selection panel, which reviews “Because Schimek has developed mutual trust impact we leave through our journey of life.” and ranks the nominees. and respect with her students, she has numer- In addition to the Ethics in Education Megan Schimek Synergy & Leadership Exchange is a ous opportunities to teach beyond scientific Award, honorees are recognized with the Aca- non-profit organization dedicated to foster- Megan Schimek, a teacher at Pine Island concepts. The aforementioned experiences demic Challenge Coach Award (teachers who ing collaboration to advance the development High School in Pine Island Public Schools, outside of the classroom have provided life- are exemplary coaches of student teams that of ethical citizens, providing educational was surprised April 13 with the news that long experiences that will forever impact our participate and compete in academic chal- resources, and celebrating achievement and she is a recipient of a 2018 WEM Outstand- students.” lenges approved by the Minnesota Academic best practices in Minnesota schools, businesses ing Educator Award for Ethics in Education, In addition, Schimek co-created a men- League Council), Teacher Achievement Award and communities. For more information on the an honor that is accompanied by a $15,000 torship program called EcoliteracySCHOOL. (exemplary teachers who support, inspire and WEM Outstanding Educator Awards Program award. This program takes high school students inter- assist students to attain greater learning as evi- and Synergy & Leadership Exchange, visit Schimek is one of six educators being ested in health science and college students denced by student achievement) and Athletic www.synergyexchange.org. honored by the WEM Foundation and Synergy pursuing careers in health on a field experi- Coach Award (teachers who are exemplary & Leadership Exchange for outstanding ence together. Students practice calling upon coaches of athletic teams). accomplishments and contributions to student nature as a resource for promoting and sus- Educators are first nominated for the learning. She is one of two recipients of the taining their own health as they learn to care WEM Outstanding Educator Awards Program www.pineisland.k12.mn.us WEM Foundation’s statewide Ethics in Edu- for others. This student-to-student partnership by students, parents, colleagues or community (507) 356-4849 cation Award, which recognizes educators who benefits the high school students by helping members. Those who accept the nomination embody ethical behavior and promote ethical them learn about the college experience from provide additional information for consider- development for students through classroom the UMR students and benefits the UMR stu- ation by Synergy & Leadership Exchange and Teaching Today Minnesota | Fall 2018, Volume 2 Page 15 Celebrating 150 years of teacher education.

UNLEASHTOMORROW with degrees and certificates on campus and online:

Educational Administration & Leadership Curriculum & Instruction STEM Education Teaching Calculus English Education Special Education Teaching English as a Second Language

Learn more at St. Cloud State University is committed to legal affirmative action, equal opportunity, access and diversity of its campus scsu.mn/gradprograms community. (http://scsu.mn/scsuoea) Page 16 Leadership Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com Saint Anthony Park Science Teacher Honored with Presidential Award with the Presi- at school feeling valued and successful. I Tariq, a third-grader. “My favorite experi- dential Award always think to myself, ‘I wish I could be a ment was learning about centripetal force.” of Excellence in learner in Mr. Schrankler’s classes!’” The Presidential Award of Excellence Mathematics and Earlier this month, Saint Anthony in Mathematics and Science Teaching was Science Teaching. Park Elementary School surprised Mr. established in 1983, and is the highest award Only 102 Schrankler for his award. Students made pre- kindergarten through 12th grade mathemat- people in the sentations and presented him with a banner, ics and science teachers can receive from the United States a personalized lab coat and a check to fund a U.S. government. The award alternates years received this new Schrankler Science Section in the school between kindergarten through sixth grade year’s award library. and seventh through twelfth grade teachers. — with Mr. “I was in awe,” Mr. Schrankler said “I’m very proud of him,” William Schrankler being about the surprise assembly in his honor. Schrankler, James’ father and a former SPPS one of two educa- “Being recognized by the students and staff principal said of the award. “I was flabber- tors in Minnesota was a very humbling experience. I have gasted when he told me he received this to receive the tremendous respect for all of the staff and award. He works hard at his craft, and he is honor. students in attendance and feel that every very good at it.” St. Paul Public Schools “I honestly feel that this award repre- staff member in the room deserves that kind Mr. Schrankler is not only an outstand- Saint Anthony Park Elementary School sents the work of all the amazing educators of recognition.” ing teacher in his classroom; he is a valued Teacher Jim Schrankler loves to get students in my life and my students,” said Mr. Schran- “Mr. Schrankler doesn’t want science colleague and teacher leader, said Duke. excited about science. kler. “I have been fortunate to work alongside to just stay in our classroom,” said Harper, a “We all learn from his balanced approach “My goal as an elementary science excellent teachers who have inspired me and third-grader at Saint Anthony Park Elemen- to professional learning,” Duke said, “his teacher is for my students to have a greater shared their expertise. My students have tary School. “He wants us to observe science commitment to equity, and his ability to form respect and appreciation for the world they driven me through their sense of curiosity everywhere, every day of our lives. He is strong, positive relationships with all stu- live in,” said Mr. Schrankler. “As they grow and enthusiasm.” very, very nice and I am thankful that he is dents. older, I hope students continue to ask ques- “Every time I walk into Mr. Schrankler’s our science teacher. I think we are very lucky tions and be curious about their surroundings. room, I see engaged, culturally-responsive because he teaches us a lot.” I hope that students think and act like sci- teaching and learning,” said Saint Anthony To put it simply, “He makes science www.spps.org entists and engineers -- even if they do not Park Principal Karen Duke. “I see students fun,” said Gus, a third-grader at Saint (651) 767-8100 pursue careers in science.” active and engaged with hands-on experi- Anthony Park Elementary School. Mr. Schrankler recently became the fifth ments, approaching tasks with curiosity and a “We always do really fun experiments in science teacher from SPPS to be honored desire to do well. I see students who struggle class, and learn new things every day,” added

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So getting that honor Kelli Soupir suspected that something myself was just a really big shock.” unusual was happening as she descended the Following the presentation, Johnson stairs from her second-floor classroom to the explained that she fields nomination letters Delano Elementary School media center on and chooses one school staff member to Thursday, Sept. 13. highlight on the Excellent Educator segment Her students waited expectantly below. during each week of the school year. That Other students and staff members ringed the means about 39 teachers are honored annu- room, waiting. ally, and Johnson said that total does not “I thought, ‘OK, this is not what a come close to the total number of nomina- normal day looks like. Something must be tions she receives. going on,’” the third-grade teacher said with Because of that competition, only the a laugh. most compelling nominations result in an She was right, of course. When she award. What made Soupir stand out, Johnson reached the bottom of the stairs Kim Johnson, said, was the praise she received from a an anchor for WCCO-TV, approached and parent of a student she taught last year. presented Soupir with a plaque identifying “This parent thought she was so caring her as one of the station’s “Excellent Educa- and fair with her students, and that she dis- “It is so humbling, as a second-year year or the teacher I am this year without tor” award winners. played such wisdom and skill for a first-year teacher, to be recognized, because you don’t their help. I’m really honored, and really An on-camera interview followed, and teacher,” Johnson said. “This person felt she always know that what you’re doing in the grateful for the opportunity I’ve had here.” Johnson and her cameraman followed Soupir truly cared for the parents of her students as classroom is the right thing. You’re just and her class as they resumed lessons in well. By the time I finished reading the nomi- trying it out on your own,” Soupir said. “It’s order to gather some additional footage. nation I wanted to share her story. I wanted really a testament to how great this commu- “It was very unexpected, a total sur- to meet her.” nity is and how the other teachers at Delano www.delano.k12.mn.us prise,” Soupir said later that afternoon. “I Soupir hastened to credit her fellow have really embraced their new teachers and (763) 972-3365 had heard about similar things on the radio, staff members for helping her negotiate the helped make them successful. I definitely but never in a million years did I think that I challenges that come with the start of any new teaching career. could not have been the teacher I was last St. James Educator Named Recipient of $15,000 Award for Excellence evidenced by student achievement. and other local healthcare businesses, Chapin Chapin has been teaching for 22 years and created a hands-on experiential education currently teaches health and physical educa- course entitled “Health Care Career Explora- tion to high school and middle school students. tions.” This course allows students with direct A big focus for Chapin is hands-on, real-life contact to 14 different aspects of the healthcare learning. He created a cooperative project system, including working with the local hos- with the school’s food service company. pital, nursing home, optometrist, chiropractor, After educating 10th-graders on the ‘rules’ of dentist, and new this year mortuary science. school nutrition, his students worked with the “Mr. Chapin models learning for his stu- professionals from the food service company dents and colleagues,” said Principal Karla to understand the requirements around creat- Beck. “He is constantly stretching his own ing school meals. Teams of students worked base of knowledge which in turn stretches to research and design nutritionally balanced those around him. When he sees a learning or school lunches. Once completed, each team is social/emotional hole within our students he ation by Synergy & Leadership Exchange and responsible to work with the cafeteria staff to is the first to fill that hole with curriculum or a blue ribbon selection panel, which reviews prepare the meal for more than 500 students activities.” and ranks the nominees. Stephen Chapin in the school. Chapin shares, “This has shown In addition to the Teacher Achievement Synergy & Leadership Exchange is a immense benefits including student owner- Award, other educators are being honored non-profit organization dedicated to foster- Stephen Chapin, a teacher at St. James ship, working with food service professionals with the Academic Challenge Coach Award Middle/High School in St. James Public ing collaboration to advance the development and real-world experiential learning.” (teachers who are exemplary coaches of of ethical citizens, providing educational Schools, was surprised April 16 with the news “Mr. Chapin tries to keep his students as student teams that participate and compete that he is a recipient of a 2018 WEM Outstand- resources, and celebrating achievement and involved as possible to enhance their learn- in academic challenges), Ethics in Education best practices in Minnesota schools, businesses ing Educator Award for Teacher Achievement, ing,” a student shared. “Every day there is an Award (exemplary educators who embody an honor that is accompanied by a $15,000 and communities. For more information on the activity related to the learning and sometimes ethical behavior and promote ethical develop- WEM Outstanding Educator Awards Program award the activity consists of having the kids com- ment for students through classroom or school Chapin is one of six educators being and Synergy & Leadership Exchange, visit: municate with their parents. Education to Mr. activities, policies or curriculum) and Athletic www.synergyexchange.org honored by the WEM Foundation and Synergy Chapin means opening the door for the student Coach Award (teachers who are exemplary & Leadership Exchange for outstanding to grow as an individual, but also opening the coaches of athletic teams). accomplishments and contributions to student door for the parents to become involved with Educators are first nominated for the www.stjames.k12.mn.us learning. He is one of two recipients of the their child.” WEM Outstanding Educator Awards Program (507) 375-3325 Teacher Achievement Award, which recog- Another initiative Chapin spearheaded by students, parents, colleagues or community nizes exemplary teachers who support, inspire is a joint project with the local Clinic Health members. Those who accept the nomination and assist students to attain greater learning as System. With guidance and support from them provide additional information for consider- Page 18 Leadership Electronic Edition: www.teachingtodaymn.com Jay Haugen is the 2019 Minnesota Superintendent of the Year by a representative committee of community initiative. The renovation cost was $2 million more than 20 states) and was the chair of the members, students, and staff. The strategies and and it recaptured an estimated $10 million of Three Counties for Kids, a children’s mental goals that stem from the plan are then refined by space. The district also built the largest solar health collaborative. another 70 community and staff. array by a single public entity in Minnesota, Haugen is a member of various community Haugen has pushed Farmington towards which will save the district more than $100,000 organizations including the Farmington Rotary this new educational system through the dis- in electricity a year. Club, Lions Club, Farmington Business Asso- trict’s approach at supporting its administrators Haugen is in his 23rd year as a Minnesota ciation, Dakota County Chamber of Commerce, and staff in achieving their strategic plan’s direc- superintendent. Prior to his Superintendency in and the Farmington Development Committee. tion. A major part of the system was completely Farmington, he was the Superintendent of Sleepy Haugen has received numerous awards reforming the staff evaluation model across the Eye Public Schools and then of West St. Paul- including the MASA Richard Green Scholar district. This started with the understanding that, Mendota Heights-Eagan Area Schools. Haugen Award, MinnSPRA Star Award: District Lead- like students, every administrator and teacher began his career as a high school science teacher, ership for Excellence in Communication, also has their own specific skills and deserves eventually moving on to pursue graduate studies Blandin Leadership Program for Contributions a unique pathway to their own creation and while providing pioneering work in the develop- to Community, Tri-Valley Opportunity Council success. The end result is a system of rubrics that ment of educational software. He returned in an for Service on the Migrant Head Start Policy allows each teacher and staff member to achieve administrative capacity serving a consortium of Council, and the Region V Award of Apprecia- Jay Haugen their best results using their specific strengths seven southwestern Minnesota school districts tion for Serving on the Governing Board. and passions. near Redwood Falls, MN as Director of Curricu- Haugen holds a master’s degree in edu- The Minnesota Association of School Farmington Area Public Schools conducts lum and Staff Development. Haugen then served cation and a 6th year administrator credential Administrators (MASA) has named Jay a survey within the community on an annual as a regional coordinator for Minnesota Depart- and he received a bachelor’s in biology and a Haugen, Superintendent of Farmington Area to biennial basis. This survey allows the dis- ment of Education’s Minnesota Educational teaching certificate from North Dakota State Public Schools, the 2019 Minnesota Superin- trict to know what the community’s views Effectiveness Program (MEEP). University. tendent of the Year. As the Minnesota honoree, are regarding the district’s progress. Through Haugen is an active member in both MASA For more information on the AASA Super- Haugen is a candidate among other state recipi- these strategic community surveys, Haugen is and AASA. He served on the MASA Board of intendent of the Year Program, please visit www. ents for National Superintendent of the Year, to able to better understand what the community Directors from 2012–15, and as MASA Presi- aasa.org. be announced during the American Association values and where there might be hesitation. In dent during 2013–14. Haugen has been involved of School Administrators (AASA) convention his first year as Superintendent, Haugen spoke in MASA committees including the Legisla- held February 14–16, 2019 in Los Angeles, CA. with more than 2,000 people in the surrounding tive Committee, and served as the chair of the www.farmington.k12.mn.us Haugen was selected for this honor by a panel of community. Haugen often holds town hall style Federal Advocacy Committee during 2008–09. (651) 463-5000 representatives from a variety of Minnesota edu- forums and hosts special community events such He is also a member of Interstate Migrant Edu- cation organizations. Nominees are evaluated on as “Soup with the Supt,” where he cooks a meal cation Council (a federal program representing how each candidate demonstrates leadership for and invites the community to come share. These learning, communication skills, professionalism, ongoing grassroots processes ensure deep com- and community involvement. munity involvement and commitment to their “During his time at Farmington Area Public strategic direction. CONNECT WITH TEACHING TODAY WI! Schools, Jay has become an inspiration within The district plans purposefully to provide his community through his extraordinary lead- more flexible learning environments to meet ership and community outreach practices,” said student needs. The high school, which is less than MASA Executive Director Dr. Gary Amoroso. 10 years old, is reaching its design maximum of “Jay is a leader in education innovation within 2,400 students, but under Haugen’s leadership, Minnesota and the nation – and I am very eager the high school space is utilized much more like to see the continued transformations that Jay has a college campus and so it can accommodate up in store for his district.” to 4,000 students and never feel confined. This During Haugen’s eight-year tenure with the innovative utilization of space within the high Farmington Area Public Schools, he has culti- school is estimated to save the community more vated and inspired the design of a new system of than $100 million in taxes in the coming years. schooling. Guided by the district’s strategic plan, The district also updated older buildings it is an education system that is student-centered, that now serves a significant number of students where every student is unique and learns to be in by finding unused spaces, including locker areas, charge of their learning experience. The strate- book storage areas, and old computer labs that gic plan was established and is regularly updated were not being used due to Haugen’s 1:1 tablet

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